On April 2, 2024, the Menlo Park Hotel buzzed with energy as GCCN members gathered for our Spring Plenary, a vibrant and well-attended evening filled with meaningful discussions, shared insights, and a strong sense of collective purpose.
It was inspiring to see such a diverse representation of our community in the room, all coming together to strengthen our network and shape Galway’s future through grassroots action.
One of the standout moments of the night was the World Café discussion, where every voice had space to be heard. Participants reflected on the work being done across Galway’s Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) and the ongoing needs of our communities.
The conversations were lively, insightful, and energising, demonstrating the power of collaboration in tackling local challenges.
See the GCCN Representative Report for the updates on the recent discussions held at the first SPC meetings this year.
The evening included one GCCN ratification for one seat on the Galway City Partnership Board. A special welcome goes to Sakarie Nour Farah Ali – Galway Somali Community, who was elected as a GCCN Representative for this seat.
We were also delighted to hear from Richard Manton and Ann O’Brien from the University of Galway, who share valuable insights on sustainability and community engagement.
A huge thank you to everyone who attended, contributed, and helped make the evening such a success!
Meeting Agenda
- Welcome and Introductions
- Minutes and Matters Arising
- Presentation: University of Galway – Sustainability and Community Engagement
- Elections/Ratification: GCCN Vacancy on GCP
- GCCN Work Update
- World Café Discussions with GCCN Representatives
- AOB
Meeting Documentation
If you missed the Spring Plenary, don’t worry! A full summary of the meeting will be available in the minutes which will be shared at our next meeting.
We encourage all members to stay engaged and continue contributing to the future of Galway’s communities.
Stay tuned for our next Plenary, and thank you again for your ongoing support and participation!
Why Attend the GCCN Plenary Meetings?
All GCCN member groups and organisations meet in Plenary four times a year.
The Plenary meeting is your opportunity to:
✅ Engage in discussions on important local issues.
✅ Stay informed about key decisions and initiatives affecting our communities.
✅ Connect with fellow GCCN members and community organisations.
This is a space where your voice matters, and we want you to be part of the conversation!
2025 Plenary Meeting Dates:
- Spring Plenary: Wednesday, 2 April / 6.30pm – 9pm / The Menlo Park Hotel
- Summer Plenary and AGM: Wednesday, 25 June / 6.30pm – 9pm / The Connacht Hotel
- Autumn Plenary: Wednesday, 24 September / 6.30pm – 9pm / Bonham Quay
- Winter Plenary & Community Celebrations: Wednesday, 3 December / 6.30pm – 9pm / The Ardilaun Hotel
Note
- The Plenary meetings are open to GCCN members only, unless non-members are explicitly invited.
- Each member group/organisation is welcome to send up to two representatives to each event.
- Coffee/tea and finger food will be served on the evening, so please let us know of any allergies/intolerance you might have, by emailing Oana at communications (at) gccn.ie