Killala woman appointed manager of north Mayo community organisation
Úna Morris appointed as the new manager of Craoibhín Ballina, the community organisation dedicated to promoting social inclusion
A Killala woman has been appointed as the new manager of Craoibhín Ballina, the north Mayo community organisation dedicated to promoting social inclusion
Craoibhín Ballina announced that Úna Morris has taken up the position of manager of the organisation which promotes social inclusion, positive wellbeing and opportunities for friendship and learning among adults in Ballina and the surrounding area.
Úna took up her position at the end of September 2026, bringing experience in community development, project organisation and the arts to her new role. Based at St Anne's Building, Old Convent Grounds, on McDermott Street, Ballina, Craoibhín was established in 2008 through an initiative of Moy Valley Resources IRD. Formerly known as the Over 55s Club, it now welcomes adults of all ages who would like to meet new people, develop new skills and interests, or take part in community activities.
Úna moved from Dublin to Killala with her family in 2000 and returned to education at the age of 47, beginning a part-time Fine Art degree at GMIT Mayo campus. She graduated in 2019 with a BA (Hons) in Fine Art from ATU Sligo and was one of two Mayo visual artists awarded a Mayo County Council Arts Bursary and a residency at the Tyrone Guthrie Centre that year.
For the past six years, she worked in the Ballina constituency office of Rose Conway-Walsh TD and ran for Sinn Féin in the last local elections.
She has considerable experience organising and facilitating community projects, workshops and talks, and remains involved in community initiatives. She is currently participating in the development of a community garden in Killala, an initiative of the local biodiversity group and community council.
Activities at Craoibhín include visual arts, crafts, music, conversational Irish, French and Spanish groups, smart phone training, a range of exercise classes and social gatherings.
Through a programme of educational, creative, recreational and social activities, Craoibhín provides opportunities for people to make friends, learn new skills and remain active and connected in their community.
Úna hopes to see the organisation continue to grow in strength and numbers, enhancing wellbeing, encouraging lifelong learning and helping to combat social isolation and loneliness among older people in Ballina and north Mayo.
Craoibhín Ballina is a registered charity governed by a voluntary Board of Management and is part-funded by Pobal and supported by community contributions. The organisation welcomes opportunities to collaborate with local businesses, community groups and other partners in supporting and developing its services.
New members are always welcome at Craoibhín Ballina. For information about activities, becoming a member or exploring opportunities to support or collaborate with Craoibhín, check out Craoibhín Ballina on Facebook or call 087 278 5365.