Leadership changes at leading Mayo family centre
The Family Centre, Castlebar, has announced a number of significant leadership changes as the organisation looks ahead to an exciting new chapter of growth and development.
Local solicitor Nessa Cox has been appointed as the new chairperson of the board, succeeding Helen Fahey, a native of Louisburgh, who steps down after an extraordinary 15 years of dedicated service.
During her tenure, Helen played a pivotal role in guiding the organisation, supporting its development, and ensuring it remained a vital resource for individuals and families across the region.
The board, staff, and wider community extend their heartfelt thanks to Helen for her commitment, leadership, and unwavering support of The Family Centre’s mission.
The organisation also welcomes Sinéad O’Malley, a native of Newport, as the new Head of Services.
Sinéad succeeds Máire Ní Dhomhnaill, who retired in late 2025 following an exceptional 20-year career with the Centre.
Máire’s contribution to The Family Centre and to the wider community has been immense, marked by her tireless dedication to supporting those in need and her deep compassion for the people she served.
Paying tribute, chairperson Nessa Cox said: “Máire’s impact over the past two decades cannot be overstated.
"Her leadership, care, and commitment have touched countless lives across our community.
"On behalf of the board, I want to sincerely thank her for her extraordinary service and wish her every happiness in her well-deserved retirement.”
Speaking on her new role, Sinéad O’Malley said: “The centre has a long-standing and highly respected reputation for supporting individuals and families with compassion and professionalism, and I am honoured to build on that legacy.
"I look forward to working with the team, the board and our community partners to continue developing and expanding services to meet the needs of people across Mayo.”
As these leadership transitions take place, The Family Centre is entering a phase of strategic development.
The board is currently working on an ambitious five-year strategic plan, with a strong focus on expanding and enhancing services to meet the evolving needs of the community.
Chairperson Nessa Cox added: “This is an exciting time for The Family Centre.
"We are building on very strong foundations, and with new leadership in place, we are focused on growing our services and strengthening our impact across Mayo.
"Through services such as our low-cost counselling, the Mayo Suicide Bereavement Liaison Service (MSBLS), our Care Leaver programme Care to Connect and Flourish Social Prescribing, we are committed to ensuring accessible, meaningful supports are available to those who need them most.”
As this new era begins, the centre remains committed to its core mission: supporting wellbeing, strengthening families and fostering a connected, resilient community.