Engagement and Leadership

As part of my commitment to shaping Galway's future, I serve on several important boards and committees that directly impact our community. These positions allow me to advocate for a range of issues—from education and housing to tourism and social development.

Key Boards and Committee

Board of GRETB (Galway Roscommon Education Training Board)

Ballinfoille Castlegar Neighbourhood Centre Advisory Group

Traveller Accommodation Programme

Chair of the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC)

Social Development Strategic Policy Committee

Tourism Development SPC

Corporate Development SPC

Galway City Council representative on the Working Group - Women’s Regional Caucus

Accessible Councillor

One of my core commitments since being elected has been to maintain a consistent, accessible presence in Galway City East.

Constituency Clinic

I launched my Constituency Clinic in September 2024 and have held it every Tuesday from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at the Ballybane Community Resource Centre.

This is the only clinic of its kind where constituents can engage directly with their elected representative on a weekly basis. It has been a tremendous success, allowing me to support people on a wide variety of issues, from housing concerns to access to local services. Being present and available to my constituents has enabled me to truly understand the daily struggles that people face and has empowered me to advocate more effectively for solutions.

Policy Change

Councillor Helen has made significant progress advocating for policies that benefit Galway City East community

Tourism Tax

Nominated Motions in the Council

Homeless Accommodation

Development of Sports & Recreation Facilities

Transport for Castlegar

Substandard Housing Conditions

Community Support

Councillor Helen is working tirelessly to address a broad range of issues affecting Galway City East residents

Mental Health

Advocating for improving mental health services. In line with my commitment, I have issued multiple press releases addressing the critical need for mental health support and resources in Galway.

School Transport & Health

Raising concerns about the growing need for better school transport services, particularly in rural areas like Castlegar, and the state of our healthcare system, which continues to leave many constituents vulnerable.

Housing Support & Maintenance

Advocating for the renovation of homes and support for tenants in need, working to connect constituents with housing services and raised concerns around substandard housing conditions in HAP and Council properties.

Public Safety

Highlighting issues regarding footpaths and littering, organized a community clean-up with the Faith Christian Church in October 2024, which we plan to continue quarterly.

My Priorities

Councillor Helen's Top Priorities for Galway City East

Championing Mental Wellness for All

Mental health is at the core of my vision for a thriving Galway. I am committed to ensuring that mental health resources are easily accessible and that we work together as a community to prioritize wellness. My work on mental health cafes, educational initiatives, and events like Galway City Connect will continue to raise awareness and de-stigmatize mental health challenges.

What I will do:

• Raise awareness through regular campaigns and mental health education programs.

• Advocate for mental health resources in schools and community spaces.

• Create a Mental Health Hub to provide support, services, and open discussions.

I believe in the potential of every young person. Through mentorship, open dialogues, and creating platforms for youth leadership, I will empower our young people to take charge of their future. Youth poverty, lack of affordable housing, and emigration are real challenges. Together, we can work to address these issues.

What I will do:

• Engage young people directly to understand their needs and help create solutions.

• Advocate for affordable student accommodation and create more vocational training opportunities.

• Establish mentorship programs and youth-led community events to ensure young people have a voice in decision-making.

Empowering Young People

Safety, cleanliness, and inclusivity are foundational to a thriving community. I will work closely with the Gardaí and local organizations to address safety concerns and promote neighbourhood watch programs. Additionally, I will advocate for well-maintained public spaces and green areas that promote community health and wellness.

What I will do:

• Collaborate with Gardaí to enhance community policing and safety measures.

• Promote neighbourhood clean-ups and waste management programs.

• Support inclusive community events that celebrate the diversity and unity of Galway City East

Ensuring a Safer, Cleaner, and Inclusive Community

Affordable housing is a pressing issue in Galway, with rising rents and an increasing number of homeless individuals. I will continue to advocate for policies that make housing more accessible for everyone, especially young people and vulnerable families.

What I will do:

• Push for increased funding for affordable housing projects.

• Collaborate with developers to prioritize social housing in new developments.

• Advocate for policies to repurpose derelict buildings into affordable homes.

Advancing Social and Affordable Housing

Community strength lies in collaboration. I will actively engage with local organizations and residents to identify needs and create solutions together. Whether it’s supporting local volunteer groups or facilitating community-driven initiatives, my goal is to ensure that everyone has a voice.

What I will do:

• Support local community groups and initiatives through funding and capacity building.

• Foster collaborative projects that involve residents in decision-making processes.

• Work with local authorities to ensure that our community’s needs are met.

Empowering Communities Through Collaboration

Community Projects - LIS

Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) allocation for 2024 - funded two significant projects aimed at improving the local area.

Beautification Project

Beautification of Barr An Uisce & Installation of Bollards in Ballybane.

Signage Installation

Installation of Fingerposts/Signage along the Doughiska Road to improve access to Merlin Park Woods.

Get Involved

Change happens when we come together.

Whether you want to volunteer, donate, or simply lend your voice to the movement, there are many ways you can get involved in making Galway City East a thriving, inclusive community.

Join Me in Making Galway City East a Better Place

1. Volunteer at one of my events or community initiatives.

2. Be a Mentee and learn more about political participation & local government.

3. Spread the word and encourage others to get involved.

4. Share any relevant information

5. Make your voice heard

What You Can Do

Councillor Helen Ogbu's dedication and impact in the community are truly inspiring and commendable.

Sue Wright

★★★★★