Climate, Culture & Hope: A Conversation with Michael D. Higgins

Sunday 28 June, 3.30pm-4.45pm, Festival Tent, Father Burke Park, Galway. This event is free. Register here.


Former President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins, internationally respected as a leading voice on culture, citizenship and social change, joins the Galway Climate Inspirations Festival, presented in association with IDEA – the Irish Development Education Association, for a special feature conversation on the afternoon of Sunday 28 June.


In this unique fireside chat, Michael D. Higgins will be joined by Ruairí McKiernan – campaigner, author and CEO of the IDEA – the Irish Development Education Association – for a thought-provoking discussion on climate action, sustainability and the role of arts, culture and education in helping shape a fairer future.


Across decades of public life, Michael D. Higgins has consistently highlighted the importance of imagination, creativity and community in responding to society’s greatest challenges. Drawing on his long connection to Galway, his championing of the arts in Ireland, and reflections through poetry and public life, this promises to be a rich and timely conversation on how we inspire action and create hope in a changing world. The event will also feature guest performances by Galway musician Áine Tyrrell and youth poet Princess Mimi Chukwudi.


The event forms part of the award-winning Galway Climate Inspirations Festival - a celebration of positive climate action bringing together creativity, community, music, food and fresh thinking.


About the Climate Inspirations Festival 2026


The award-winning
Climate Inspirations Festival 2026, a landmark celebration of creativity, innovation, and community action in response to the climate crisis, will take place from 24-28 June 2026 in various venues throughout Galway City. It brings together artists, scientists, council staff, and local communities to explore how storytelling and culture can accelerate climate solutions.


The five‑day festival will feature more than thirty events, including interactive exhibitions, climate art installations, live music, a community fair, a melting potluck, sustainability workshops, and keynote talks and panels from sustainability leaders. The programme is designed to spark public imagination and empower communities to take meaningful climate action.


Register here!



July 30, 2026
IDEA is seeking an experienced Communications Manager to lead our strategic communications and public engagement work. IDEA is the national network for Development/Global Citizenship Education (GCE) in Ireland. We work with over 100 member organisations and individuals to strengthen the sector through collaboration, professional learning, research, policy engagement and advocacy. Development Education /Global Citizenship Education enables people to understand the world around them, think critically about global justice and sustainability, and take informed action to help create a more just and sustainable future. Reporting to the CEO, the Communications Manager will lead the development and delivery of IDEA's communications strategy, strengthen engagement with members and partners, raise the profile of IDEA, its members and the Global Citizenship Education sector, and communicate the value and impact of their work to a wide range of audiences. Key Responsibilities The successful candidate will: Lead IDEA's strategic communications and public engagement work. Develop and deliver communications strategies and annual communications plans. Raise the profile of IDEA, its members and the wider Global Citizenship Education sector. Communicate the impact of IDEA's work and showcase the work, learning and impact of members. Lead digital communications, media relations and organisational communications. Build relationships with members, partners, policymakers, media and other stakeholders. Salary and Benefits Salary: €49,522 - €55,737 per annum, depending on experience Full-time, one-year fixed-term contract. IDEA intends this to be an ongoing role, with the opportunity for the position to become permanent, subject to funding. May consider 4 day arrangement. Applications from candidates seeking a four-day working week will be considered 6.5% employer contribution to a contributory pension scheme Hybrid working arrangements (Dublin city centre office) Opportunities for professional development About You You'll bring: At least five years' relevant communications experience Experience developing and delivering communications strategies Excellent writing, editing and storytelling skills Experience managing digital communications, websites and social media Strong stakeholder engagement and project management skills An understanding of, or interest in, Global Citizenship Education, education, international development or the wider not-for-profit sector. How to Apply Please read the Job Description and Application Information PDF before applying. It contains the full role description, person specification, terms and conditions and application instructions. Applications should include: A current CV. A cover letter (maximum two pages). Email applications to recruitment@ideaonline.ie with the subject line Communications role. The deadline for applications is Thursday 17 September, 9.00am (Irish time),
July 17, 2026
Applications should be submitted online to recruitment@ideaonline.ie by Thursday, 13 August, 9.00am.
July 10, 2026
Budget 2027 comes at a time of significant global uncertainty and intensifying global and local challenges.