Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Helen Ogbu, raised the European flag alongside the Irish flag at City Hall on 1 July 2026 to mark the beginning of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Speaking at the event, Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Helen Ogbu said:
"Today, as we raise the European Union flag at City Hall, we mark the beginning of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union and reaffirm Galway’s place within the European community. Galway City looks forward to contributing its voice, experience and ambition to the collective efforts that strengthen communities across Europe."
The Presidency offers communities across Ireland an opportunity to engage with European issues and strengthen connections with EU partners. Initiatives such as the Presidency County Pairings Programme will help ensure broad public participation throughout the Presidency.
Galway City Council will further strengthen its European links through its county pairing with Estonia. From July to December 2026, a programme of events and activities will bring the European Union closer to citizens, highlighting its relevance and impact on everyday life.
The Presidency also provides Galway City with an opportunity to deepen collaboration with European partners, contribute to addressing shared challenges, and create new opportunities that benefit local communities.