Galway City Council is celebrating national recognition having been shortlisted in two categories in the prestigious Excellence in Local Government Awards 2026. The projects, shortlisted in the Diversity, Equality and Inclusion and Supporting Sustainable Communities categories, highlight the local authority's ongoing commitment to delivering inclusive, people-focused services and strengthening communities across Galway.
Organised by Chambers Ireland, the Excellence in Local Government Awards are regarded as the flagship awards programme for Ireland's local government sector. The awards celebrate best practice, innovation and the positive impact of local authorities on the communities they serve, recognising projects that improve quality of life and strengthen local communities across the country.
The two shortlisted projects, The Living My Life Project, a joint submission by Galway City Council and Galway County Council in the Supporting Sustainable Communities category, and Bóithrín na Saoirse Traveller Group Housing Scheme in the Diversity, Equality and Inclusion category, demonstrate the value of partnership, inclusion and community-led approaches to addressing housing needs and supporting social inclusion.
The Living My Life Project is a collaborative initiative involving Galway City Council, Galway County Council, Ability West, Corlann West Ireland – West Region and Proactive Carers Galway. The project supports people with intellectual disabilities to access housing and live more independently within their communities, with a strong emphasis on inclusion, choice, sustainable communities and live self-directed lives. To date, Galway City Council and Galway County Council have assisted the Living My Life Project secure housing for 13 people supported through direct Local Authority and Approved Housing Body allocations, HAP and Capital Funding.
Bóithrín na Saoirse is a Traveller-led housing initiative delivered by Galway City Council in partnership with CENA. The development replaced a long-standing halting site with five modern, energy-efficient homes designed through an extensive co-creation process with resident families. The scheme has been recognised for its commitment to inclusion, cultural identity and community participation in housing delivery.
Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Helen Ogbu, welcomed the shortlisting.
"I am delighted to see two Galway City Council initiatives receive national recognition by being shortlisted in this year's Excellence in Local Government Awards. These projects demonstrate the positive impact that can be achieved when local government works in partnership with communities, residents and stakeholders to address real needs and create opportunities for people to thrive. The shortlisting reflects the ambition, innovation and commitment that continue to shape Galway as an inclusive and progressive city."
Chief Executive of Galway City Council, Leonard Cleary, also welcomed the achievement.
"Being shortlisted in the Excellence in Local Government Awards is a significant achievement and a testament to the dedication of Galway City Council staff and our partners on these projects, Galway County Council, Ability West, Corlann West Ireland – West Region, Proactive Carers Galway and CENA. Both projects showcase collaborative and people-centred approaches that are making a meaningful difference in the lives of residents and helping to build stronger communities. We are proud to see this work recognised at a national level."
The awards will be presented on Thursday, 26 November in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Northwood Park, Santry Demesne, Dublin 9.
