Galway Wool: Preserving Native Irish Sheep and Sustainable Textiles

Bláthnaid Gallagher manages Murray Meadows farm, preserving the endangered Native Irish Galway Sheep. In 2019, she founded the Galway Wool Co-op to revive appreciation for Irish wool, support breeders, and promote sustainable, traceable wool products. The co-op now unites 70 flocks across Ireland, sourcing fleece exclusively from Pure Breed Registered Galway Sheep. Through knowledge sharing and market development, the co-op strengthens the cultural and economic value of this sustainable bio-fibre, supporting rural livelihoods and environmental stewardship. The initiative is backed by EU Agri-Environmental Schemes, including GLAS and ACRES.