Galway secured two honours at the 20th annual All-Ireland Community and Council Awards, held at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre at the weekend.
The awards, hosted by the Local Authority Members Association and IPB Insurance, recognise collaboration between communities and the country’s 31 local authorities. The scheme is often described as the Oscars of local government.
Scoil an Phiarsaigh, organised by Galway County Council, won the Best Irish Language Initiative award. The two?day event celebrates Pádraig Pearse’s connection to Ros Muc and his commitment to the Irish language, culture and education. Last year’s programme included panel discussions, traditional music and storytelling, as well as lectures examining Pearse’s influence on Irish literature, art and identity and his relevance to contemporary Ireland.
Ballinakill Community Development, near Loughrea, received a Special Commendation in the Best Community?Scale Enhancements category. The award highlights small to medium projects such as playgrounds, greenways, heritage restorations and improvements to public amenities.
Councillor David Collins, Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway, said Pearse’s Cottage remains a focal point for the writer’s legacy. “Scoil an Phiarsaigh provides a national platform for the Ros Muc community to promote that legacy and the continuing role of the Irish language in modern Irish society and culture.
“I am also delighted that Ballinakill Community Development is being recognised for delivering a range of community enhancement projects, including significant improvements to sports facilities at Ballinakill National School and Ballinakill Community Sportsfield, as well as upgrades at St Joseph’s Church, the Ballinakill and Derrybrien Community Centre and Ballinakill Millennium Park.”
Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said the awards reflect the strength of local partnerships. “These awards are a chance to celebrate how people come together to protect our heritage, foster a sense of community spirit and improve local spaces for everyone. It is a real privilege to see these partnerships making such a positive difference. “Comhghairdeas le gach duine a bhí páirteach sa tionscnamh fiúntach seo a chur i gcrích.”
Michael Owens, Director of Services, commented, “Local authorities and community groups from all over Ireland submit entries to this prestigious awards scheme, which underscores the significance of the achievements of Scoil an Phiarsaigh and the Ballinakill community. These honours reflect the dedication, creativity and pride that define community life in County Galway. My team and I are proud to support these local communities.”
Elizabeth Keane, County and City Librarian with Galway Libraries, said the award for Scoil an Phiarsaigh affirms the Irish language as a living part of community life. “Scoil an Phiarsaigh shows that the Irish language is not simply something we inherit, but something we actively use, share and celebrate. Through our partnership with the community in Ros Muc, we are creating opportunities for people of all ages to engage with Irish in a vibrant and contemporary way.”
Máirtín Ó Donnchadha, Irish Language Officer for Galway County Council, said, “Scoil an Phiarsaigh is about more than remembering Pearse’s time in Ros Muc. It is about asking what his vision means today, and this award is a powerful recognition of that ongoing relevance. This honour affirms the commitment of the Ros Muc community and Galway County Council to promoting and supporting the daily use of Irish in a vibrant and contemporary way.”
This year’s awards coincided with the 50th anniversary of LAMA, the national organisation representing elected councillors. RTÉ presenter Marty Whelan was Master of Ceremonies for the 2026 event. See lamaawards.ie
This article is funded by Comisiún na Meán.
