‘Positive outcome’ anticipated for Galway’s beloved Palas cinema as reopening on the horizon
A decision on the future use of Galway’s beloved arthouse cinema, the Pálás, is expected to be announced in February, with a “positive outcome” anticipated.
Galway City councillor Niall McNelis said it is his understanding, based on discussions to date, that further clarity will be provided in February, and additionally discussed at the city council meeting that month.
Cllr McNelis, who officially opened the cinema in summer 2018 during his term as mayor, said the reopened venue will retain its core purpose.
“It is going to have a tourist element, and it is going to be a cinema,” he told the Irish Independent.
While a new operator has yet to be confirmed and no agreement has been signed, Cllr McNelis said assurances have been given that the building will remain true to its original ethos.
“They have committed to actually showing culturally appropriate films, the arthouse-style films. The Fleadh will have a home if they want it,” he said.
“Basically, it’s the same, but due diligence is being done at the moment.”
Cllr McNelis said he has kept the future of the Pálás on the council agenda on a monthly basis and intends to continue doing so until a final plan is in place.
“It’s a brilliant facility. It’s so much needed for Galway because of its UNESCO City of Film status, the Film Fleadh, the University and ATU film schools, and Ardán. All of that makes it really, really important that we have a strong Pálás,” he said.
“There’s too much money spent on it to have it remain closed.”
The cinema closed in December 2024, which Cllr McNelis said highlighted the lack of consistent operational funding for cultural infrastructure, in contrast to sport.
“This goes back to the big issue – is that government has a sports capital fund where we give money to sports groups, football pitches all of that.
“You wouldn’t build a school if you didn’t give it money to run every year,” he said. “The same applies here. There needs to be a cultural capital grant every year so that theatres, cinemas and art spaces can be kept open at all times. That’s something governments really need to look at, an arts capital fund.”
He added that while the building sustained some roof damage during recent storms, the site has been maintained. Security cameras remain operational, and the building has been periodically heated to ensure it remains functional.
Despite its closure, the Pálás has continued to host events in recent months, including screenings during the Galway Comedy Festival, the Galway Film Fleadh and events organised by Galway Film Society.
The original lease agreement was signed with Lighthouse Cinemas as an executive function of Galway City Council.