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Galway Advocacy


The Council was set up in 1989, making it one of the oldest in the country. Early leaders Marie Wolfe, Martin Dooher, Padraig McDonagh, Christina Burke, Anne Mahon and Mary Kinsella led the way.

Members of the Galway Advocacy Council at the Local Hustings in the University of Galway, School of Law.
Members of the Galway Advocacy Council at the Local Hustings in the University of Galway, School of Law.

The Council makes sure the voices of people supported by the Services are heard and acted on. The Council raise issues and concerns that people have in the Service and beyond.

The Council is also a forum for sharing good news, sharing information and supporting people to build their skills and knowledge.

We link in with organisations to raise awareness of disability issues. For example Inclusion Ireland, DFI, Inclusive Research Network, University of Galway and the Centre for Disability, Law, and Policy.

The Council is made up of representatives from the adult service areas across Galway city and county. It has 2 advocacy groups, one in the East Sector Advocacy and one in the West Sector Advocacy. The Councils meet regularly with the Director of Services and Senior Management in the Galway area.

Members of Galway Advocacy Council holding a framed Human Rights Charter.
Members of the Arts Alive Programme launching the Charter of Rights.
Lorraine Mahon Winning the “Majella Jordan Advocacy Award 2022” with Members of the Galway Advocacy Council.
Lorraine Mahon Winning the “Majella Jordan Advocacy Award 2022” with Members of the Galway Advocacy Council.

The East Advocacy Council is made up of representatives from Skylark, Loughrea, Orchard, Deerpark, Blue Teapot and SUAS Services.

The West Advocacy Council is made up of representatives from Caislean, BEO, Cregoran, John Paul, Bruach Na Mara and Failte Community Services.

There are 3 Galway advocates elected to sit on the National Advocacy Council.


Learn more about Advocacy in the West Region. Have a look at our latest Advocacy News or our Advocacy Resources.