Galway City Council’s two nominations for the 2025 Pride of Place Awards were recognised for outstanding community work at the national awards ceremony this month.
Galway Sea Scouts were delighted to take home the Runner Up Award in the ‘Community Youth Initiative’ category of the 23rd annual competition.
Galway Sea Scouts provides a volunteer-led youth development programme based on adventure and ocean activities that include camping, hiking, sailing and kayaking.
Their activities in the outdoor environment promote a healthy and active lifestyle and engender an understanding and stewardship of our natural and marine environment.
Commenting on Galway Sea Scouts, the Pride of Place Judges said, “This group in existence since 1932, has a very proud history and a very high participation rate.”
“The leaders we met were outstanding in their voluntary commitment and constantly give their time, experience and knowledge to enhance the important nautical skills necessary to be successful and safe in a sea environment.”
Galway City Council’s had a second shortlisted nomination – Link Galway CLG, known locally as Café Link – in the ‘Inclusive Communities’ category.
The organisation was established in 1994 as a training café and catering skills centre for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Over the years, Café Link has evolved significantly. In 2023, Café Link Newcastle underwent a major transformation, emerging as a high-volume café offering premium products at reasonable prices, with seating for 102 patrons.
Fergal Cushen, Pride of Place Coordinator, Galway City Council said, “We are delighted to have played our part in assisting our Pride of Place participants during recent months.”
“This prestigious competition is about recognising and celebrating the extraordinary, inspirational and tireless work being undertaken by local communities as they work to make their local area a better place in which to live.”
“The success of the 2025 participants is well deserved and is reflective of the work that is ongoing throughout the wider community in Galway City.“
Organised by peacebuilding charity Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance, Pride of Place celebrates the work of community groups across the island of Ireland.
