Over one hundred Fórsa members protested outside Galway City Council on Monday 10th March, calling on the Council to change course on its proposed move to Crown Square. 

They were joined by local politicians from across the political spectrum, many of whom raised the issue at a Council meeting that took place later that afternoon.

Members are concerned that they will not be able to serve the public properly and that services will be more difficult to access for many citizens if the Council proceeds with its decision to move out of Galway city to the proposed Crown Square site. Such a move will also add to traffic problems in the city and reduce footfall to local businesses in the city. 

In a recent survey members voiced their concerns and criticised the lack of consultation with staff and other stakeholders about the move.  Three quarters of the staff surveyed confirmed the move would make them consider applying for posts outside of the council.  

Speaking at the protest Fórsa official Padraig Mulligan commended the crowd for standing up for citizens. He said, “As public servants you get nothing out of this, you are standing with the people of Galway, with rate payers, and with businesses, saying no to the hollowing out of Galway city.” 

Outlining the reasons why members care about this issue, branch secretary Adam Stoneman said: "As local authority workers we are proud to serve the people of Galway every day. The Council plays an important civic role in citizens’ lives, and its location has an impact on how people engage and relate to it. We want to stay close to the people and city we serve.” 

Padraig concluded “We’re really pleased with the support the public, local and national politicians and Galway media outlets have shown. We’ll keep fighting for our members and the public on this vital issue.”  

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