Following reports in the media and online in relation to a number of public order incidents in Galway City over the weekend, Galway City Council and An Garda Síochána maintain that Galway City remains a friendly and safe city.

An Garda Síochána maintain close cooperation with Galway City Council and all Public Services to make Galway a safe place to work, live, study and socialise.

Galway City Council and Public Representatives support the role that An Garda Síochána have in keeping people safe in our communities including crime prevention, detection and enforcement in accordance with law.

Yesterday’s meeting, arranged by the Mayor of the City of Galway, Councillor Eddie Hoare and interim CE of Galway City Council, Patricia Philbin, between An Garda Síochána; and Galway City Council, reinforces our commitment to close co-operation and working together to address serious issues, including social disorder, and to maintain the reputation of Galway City and that of its people, as a safe and welcoming city.

Speaking about the meeting, Mayor of the City of Galway, Councillor Eddie Hoare commented, “I welcome the confirmation by An Garda Síochána that arrests have been made, and I have full confidence in both An Garda Síochána and our Courts system in dealing with the on-going issues. Galway has an exceptional reputation around the world, and it is important that this reputation is protected. I would ask those involved to exercise calm, to step back, and to take some responsibility for their actions. I look forward to continuing to work with fellow Members and the Executive of Galway City Council, and An Garda Síochána, in ensuring order is restored in our city.”

Galway City Council and An Garda Síochána collaborate on a number of initiatives on an on-going basis, in support of a vibrant, safer Galway – resulting in the award of the Purple Flag for Galway City and Salthill in 2023. Purple Flag zones are places where the Council, Gardaí, local businesses and communities work together to ensure everyone feels welcome and safe, in the ‘night time economy’.

Galway City Council and An Garda Síochána will continue to collaborate and engage with a view to maintaining the excellent national and international reputation of Galway City.

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Pictured after their meeting on Tuesday 12 September 2023 at City Hall, are Chief Superintendent Gerry Roche, An Garda Síochána; Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Eddie Hoare; and Galway City Council Interim Chief Executive Patricia Philbin.