Traffic in the Loughrea area is expected to be disrupted until early next year due to water mains replacement works beginning this week.

Uisce Éireann is replacing just over 2 kilometres of old water mains at at Carrowbaun and Carrowmore to the northwest of town.

The upsizing of these water mains is to support the continued development of housing in the area.

Single lane closures will be required at points on the R349, the L3114 and the L8179 while these works are underway from Monday to Friday, between 8am and 5pm.

Works will be kept to short sections at a time to minimise disruption. Local and emergency access will be maintained at all times.

Work was due to being this week and is expected to continue until January 2027.

“This is a major programme of mains upsizing for Loughrea,” said Enda Mac Namara, Uisce Éireann Programme Manager.

“We will increase the size and capacity of more than 2km of water mains as part of this programme of works, delivering the capacity required for the sustainable development of new homes in the area, all while reducing the risk of operational issues going forward, and driving down rates of leakage on the existing network.”

From diabetes to dreaming, and photosynthesis to Formula 1, short science films made by young people have been celebrated at the 14^th Annual ReelLIFE SCIENCE Awards in University of Galway.

The event took place on Sunday, November 8 as part of Science Week 2026 and the 29^th Galway Science and Technology Festival.

More than 200 short science films were entered – created by 1,000 young science enthusiasts in 78 schools and youth groups across the island of Ireland.

Winning videos were selected by a panel of guest judges including Superhero Scientist Dr Barry Fitzgerald, Midlands Science Chief Executive Jackie Gorman and the 2026 Stripe Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition winner Aoibheann Daly from Mercy Secondary School Mounthawk in Tralee, Co Kerry.

ReelLIFE SCIENCE Winners

1^st Prize Primary School – Twenty-six talented third-class students from Abbey Primary School in Boyle, Co Roscommon, guided by teacher Clíodhna O’Donnell, won the €1,000 first prize for their hair-raising video ‘Nitty Gritty Science’ about the lifecycle of headlice.

Runners-up Primary School – Bringing humour, creativity and fun to photosynthesis were 29 fifth and sixth class students and teacher Thomas Egan from Sooey National School in Sligo, claiming second prize for ‘Shedding a Light on Photosynthesis’. Finishing third, and led by teacher Brian Ó Meacháin, 30 fourth and fifth class students from Gaelscoil Riabhach in Baile Locha Riach, Co na Gaillimhe explained this summer’s solar eclipse in ‘Urú na Gréinne’.

1^st Prize Post-Primary – Eight second and third year students from Coláiste Ghobnait on Inis Oírr, Co na Gaillimhe, won the €1,000 first prize under the guidance of science teacher Rebecca Ní Chríocháin, for their video Céard é Diaibéiteas?’ rapping about the different types of diabetes through Irish.

Runners-up Post-Primary – In second place, with an animated video answering the question ‘How Do Noise-Cancelling Headphones Work?’ were Transition Year students Yuqi Lu and Audrey Yang, from Alexandra College Dublin. Finishing third, with her hand-drawn animated short explaining the science behind ‘Lucid Dreaming’ was Anna Wing Yin Hui, a third-year student from Nord Anglia International School in Dublin.

1^st Prize Youth Organisation – Answering the question ‘How Do We Make Sound?’, using props including a piano and a pet chicken, third year student Arden Oakes, representing Grow Music from Dundalk, Co Louth, claimed the first prize in the youth organisation category.

Runners-up Youth Organisation – Brogan O’Donnell from Trident Swim Club in Carrick on Shannon, Co Leitrim came second, mixing animation and underwater footage when exploring the body’s production of the energy required for swimming in ‘Fuel for the Pool’. Paige Connolly, Jodie Buckley, Ciarán Callaghan and Lauren Keohane from Ballyphehane and Greenmount Foróige group in Cork were third for their video about the aerodynamics and physics of Formula 1 cars through the years.

All of the winning videos can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/ReelLifeScience.

Jackie Gorman, Midlands Science CEO and ReelLIFE SCIENCE judge, said, “I was really delighted to be a judge this year for ReelLIFE SCIENCE. It was really heartening to see the science explained so well and to see that, not only was the science so accurate and engaging, but the communication itself.”

“We need lots of people all over Ireland to engage with Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths, but we equally need people who are going to communicate the science well, so that as many people as possible understand that science is not just part of our economy but it’s a really valuable part of our society and our everyday lives.”

The ReelLIFE SCIENCE programme challenges young people in schools and youth groups across the island of Ireland to engage with science and technology while developing their communication and digital skills, by producing short educational videos for the public.

Since being launched in 2013 by Dr Enda O’Connell and a team of scientists from the University of Galway, this challenge has been met by over 33,000 young people, supported by teachers and staff in 850 schools and youth groups, producing almost 4,000 short science videos.

ReelLIFE SCIENCE is supported by the Research Ireland Discover Programme, University of Galway’s College of Science and Engineering, Rinn Medical Devices, the Cell EXPLORERS programme and Foróige.

• Prof. Yseult Freeney, Full Professor of Organisational Psychology at DCU Business School, will explore how relationships and social support can help people navigate change in their working lives, maintain a sense of identity and support wellbeing through periods of uncertainty.
• Dr Duncan Gillard, Principal Psychologist at Enable Trust, will explore evidence-based psychological approaches to supporting young people, including how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help young people navigate challenges and develop psychological flexibility.
• Louise O’Keeffe, prominent campaigner, will deliver the final keynote, sharing her perspective on seeking justice and accountability following childhood sexual abuse in Irish national schools and bringing a lived-experience perspective to the Conference programme.

• Farmers’ and farmworkers’ mental health and suicide risk.
• The psychological impact of Ireland’s defective concrete crisis.
• AI-generated child sexual abuse material and prevention.
• Anxiety-related content on TikTok.
• Postpartum sleep support for first-time parents.
• Parents’ experiences of Voice of the Child assessments in Irish family courts.
• Irish patients’ experiences of travelling abroad for endometriosis care.
• Women’s experiences of maternity care when considered to be of “advanced maternal age.

Work on two community tourism projects in East Galway will begin in early 2027, Galway County Council has confirmed.

The council is managing the delivery of the Aughrim Climate Action Park and the Shannon Bank Eco Park Development in Esker, which have secured a combined €820,427 under the EU Just Transition Fund START Programme.

The projects are being led by Galway County Council’s Tourism Team and supported locally by the Shannon Bank Eco Park Trustees Committee in Esker and the Rev John Godfrey in Aughrim.

The funding, co-financed by the Government and the European Union, was announced by Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien.

The Aughrim project has been allocated €502,315 for the rehabilitation of 1.7 hectares of agricultural land and its conversion into a climate-resilient community amenity.

The development will include measures to enhance biodiversity and provide a public amenity for the village and surrounding area.

The Shannon Bank project has secured €318,112 for sustainable infrastructure, accessibility improvements, biodiversity measures and environmental education facilities.

Planned works include solar photovoltaic panels with battery storage, energy-efficiency upgrades to existing facilities, improvements to the car park, bicycle parking and the replacement of diesel-powered maintenance equipment. Outdoor learning pods and further biodiversity enhancements are also planned.

Cathaoirleach of Ballinasloe Municipal District, Cllr Evelyn Parsons, said the confirmation of the anticipated start date was positive news for the area.

“These projects represent an important investment in sustainable tourism, community amenities and climate action across East Galway.

“Both have the potential to enhance the visitor experience, support local communities and further develop East Galway as an attractive destination. It is particularly encouraging to see local community groups taking the lead in projects that will deliver lasting benefits for their areas.”

Michael Owens, Director of Services with Galway County Council, said the local authority was working with the community representatives to bring both developments to construction.

“Galway County Council is pleased to be managing these two projects and working alongside the local groups who have driven them forward.

“With funding now secured, the focus is on progressing the necessary preparations to allow works to commence in early 2027. Both developments will provide valuable new amenities while strengthening the tourism offering in East Galway and supporting the protection of our natural environment.”

EU Just Transition Fund Activator for Galway, Loretta Raftery, said the projects demonstrated the potential of community-led investment to create sustainable tourism opportunities.

“Both projects have been developed with strong local ambition and a clear focus on sustainability. The investment will help create new experiences for visitors while improving facilities and amenities for the communities themselves.

“The JTF Tourism Activator will play an important role in coordinating the delivery of these projects, providing business support services and helping to maximise the longer-term opportunities arising from this investment.”

The latest allocations build on the tourism investment secured in the Ballinasloe Municipal District in early 2026, when six regenerative tourism projects received funding under Fáilte Ireland’s Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme.

Motorists are advised to take car when travelling this morning, with a status yellow fog warning in place in Galway.

Met Éireann has issued the weather warning for all of Connacht, alogn with counties Cavan, Donegal, Longford, Louth, Meath, Monaghan, Westmeath.

Areas of dense fog developed overnight, with poor visibility and difficult driving conditions as a result.

The weather warning will be in place until 11am on Monday morning.

Two people have been arrested in connection with a shooting in Ballinasloe that left one person injured this week.

The shooting took place shortly before 2am on Thursday, with one young man in his teens receiving non-life-threatening injuries.

An incident room was created at Ballinasloe Garda Station to investigate, and Gardaí are appealing for witnesses.

Investigating Gardaí carried out a number of searches of properties in Ballinasloe and Athlone on Thursday, November 5, seizing a vehicle and a number of electronic devices.

One adult in his late teens was arrested in Athlone and is being detained at a station in the Garda North Western Region.

A second man in his 20s was arrested in Athlone on foot of outstanding bench warrants.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or anyone who was in the area at the Curragh Park between midnight to 3:00am and may have dash-cam, CCTV or other footage, to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Ballinasloe Garda Station on 090 063 1890, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

Irish Medtech, the Ibec group that represents the medtech sector, together with Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland, alongside platinum sponsors EY, has announced the finalists of the Irish Medtech Awards 2026, following a record number of entries. The winners will be announced as part of Medtech Rising, 2-3 December, at The Galmont Hotel in Galway.

Dr Eoghan Ó Faoláin, Irish Medtech Director, said, “This was a record year for the Irish Medtech Awards which has been bringing together the sector to celebrate for two decades. The quality and quantity of applications reflects the health of Ireland as a medtech powerhouse.”

“This year we engaged with the industry extensively to review the nine categories and the new awards for Innovation, Community, as well as Manufacturing and Transformation, have stood out as highly competitive.”

“I’d like to thank everyone who made the time to craft their submissions and to congratulate those who have been shortlisted. We look forward to announcing the winners live at Medtech Rising, 2-3 December, in The Galmont Galway.”

“Medtech Rising attracts in excess of 500 senior leaders annually to network and get ahead of the latest trends. This year’s two day event will exceptional see a full day devoted to Medtech Connect+ where we will bring founders, investors, and experts together to talk about starting and scaling a business.”

“This will be followed by the popular Medtech Connect+ showcase where startups will present on their disruptive innovation to potential partners. At the Medtech Rising Business Leaders’ Conference we will explore, capturing the digital advantage, healthcare innovation, agile teams and winning strategies as well as global trade turbulence, breakthrough technology, and scaling medtech.”

Finalists:

· Company of the Year: BD Research Centre Ireland, ICS Medical Devices, and S3 Connected Health

· Emerging Company of the Year: CergenX, LaNua Medical, and Phyxiom

· Digital Health Award: Amara Therapeutics, FeelTect, patientMpower

· Innovation Award: Deciphex, FeelTect, and Stryker

· Collaboration Award: Aerogen, S3 Connected Health, Harmac Medical Products

· Manufacturing and Transformation Award: Bausch + Lomb, Boston Scientific, and Medtronic

· Talent Strategy Award: Alcon Ireland Laboratories, DePuy Synthes, and Freudenberg Medical Ireland

· Sustainability Award: DePuy Synthes, Freudenberg Medical Ireland, and Mergon

· Community Award: Cook Medical, Medtronic, and West Pharmaceutical Services

Cepta Duffy, Head of Lifescience and Healthtech at Enterprise Ireland, added, “Ireland continues to cement its status as a globally recognised hub for lifesciences.”

“Enterprise Ireland is committed to supporting Irish exporters to start, grow and scale, including medtech innovators who are delivering solutions to global challenges, so I’d like to congratulate the 2026 Irish Medtech Awards finalists, who represent a dynamic network of innovative start-ups and established companies improving patient outcomes at home and abroad.”

“Medtech Rising recognises excellence along with our uniquely collaborative community. We look forward to learning more about the groundbreaking progress these finalists are making in Galway; this is an unmissable opportunity to celebrate their success and look ahead.”

John Nugent Department Manager, Medical Technologies and Healthcare Services, IDA Ireland, concluded, “Ireland continues to be a location of choice for leading global medtech companies, which is evident in the remarkable strength of entries for the awards again this year.”

“The organisations shortlisted across all categories enhance the Irish medtech ecosystem through ambitious R&D, digital innovation, and enhance our deep talent pool, demonstrating dynamic strategies to compete on the global stage. We look forward to celebrating this innovation driven sector at Medtech Rising 2026 and wish those shortlisted every success.”

The 2026 Croí Night Run brought communities together across Ireland in one of Croí’s biggest and most far-reaching fundraising events to date, with thousands of people stepping out to run, jog and walk in support of heart and stroke prevention.

This year’s event marked an important new chapter for the Croí Night Run, with the first official event outside Galway taking place in Sligo, alongside the much-loved flagship event on Salthill Promenade in Galway.

Both official events brought an incredible atmosphere to the streets, with participants of all ages coming together to raise vital funds for Croí’s lifesaving work.

The Salthill event once again proved hugely popular, selling out 6 weeks in advance, while the new Sligo event marked the beginning of an exciting expansion for the Croí Night Run and was warmly embraced by the local community.

But the success of the 2026 Croí Night Run extended far beyond the two official events.

Communities across Ireland came together to organise their own local Croí Night Runs, with events taking place in Letterkenny, Skerries, Clifden, Craughwell, Headford, Ros an Mhíl, Tuam, Abbeyknockmoy, Aughnacliffe, Ballina and Castlerea.

From sports clubs and community organisations to groups of friends, families and colleagues, local organisers gave their time, energy and commitment to make each event a success and bring the message of heart health to their communities.

In total, 3,838 people took part in the 2026 Croí Charity Night Run Events, with 2 official runs and 11 community events held across the country raising over €220,000 in support of Croí’s work.

Speaking following the event, Christine Flanagan, Director of Fundraising at Croí, said, “We are truly grateful for the incredible support shown for this year’s Croí Night Run. To see so many people come together across the country, united by a shared commitment to heart health, has been incredibly inspiring.”

“This year was particularly special as we welcomed Sligo as the first official Croí Night Run outside Galway. The response from the people of Sligo has been fantastic and we want to sincerely thank everyone who helped us make this expansion such a success.”

“Our community Night Runs are at the very heart of what makes this event so special. We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to every organiser, volunteer, club, community group and fundraiser who gave their time and energy to bring the Croí Night Run to their local area. Their dedication has allowed thousands more people to take part and has helped us reach communities right across Ireland.”

“Whether someone took part on Salthill Promenade, joined us in Sligo, organised a local community event, volunteered, fundraised or simply encouraged someone else to take part, every single contribution has helped Croí continue its vital work preventing heart disease and stroke and supporting people and families affected by these conditions.”

Croí extended a very special thank you to the communities who organised and supported this year’s local Night Runs:

• Letterkenny, Donegal
• Skerries, Dublin
• Abbeyknockmoy, Galway
• Clifden, Galway
• Craughwell, Galway
• Headford, Galway
• Ros an Mhíl, Galway
• Tuam, Galway
• Aughnacliffe, Longford
• Ballina, Mayo
• Castlerea, Roscommon

Each community brought its own energy and personality to the event, while sharing the same goal – bringing people together, encouraging physical activity and raising vital funds for heart and stroke prevention.

Croí is particularly grateful to the local clubs, venues, volunteers and community organisers who worked behind the scenes to coordinate routes, welcome participants, promote the events and create memorable evenings for everyone involved.

The success of the community Night Runs demonstrates the incredible impact that can be achieved when communities come together for a shared cause.

Croí also thanked Benecol, the event’s sponsor, for its continued support of the Croí Night Run. Benecol’s ongoing commitment has helped the event grow and reach more people, while sharing an important focus on heart health and encouraging positive steps towards healthier lifestyles.

Laura O’Connell, Brand Manager, Benecol, said, “We are proud to have supported the Croí Night Run again this year and to have seen communities across Ireland come together in such an incredible way. The energy, enthusiasm and commitment shown by participants and organisers has been inspiring.”

“It has been particularly exciting to see the event expand to Sligo this year, while the continued success of the community Night Runs demonstrates the strength of the Croí Night Run as a nationwide celebration of heart health.”

“At Benecol, supporting heart health is at the core of what we do, and we are delighted to continue our partnership with Croí and support the vital work they do in communities across Ireland.”

Funds raised through the Croí Night Run will help Croí continue to deliver vital heart and stroke prevention programmes, health checks, education, rehabilitation and patient and family support services, helping people and communities to take control of their heart health.

Croí would like to thank every participant, fundraiser, volunteer, community organiser, club, supporter and sponsor who helped make the 2026 Croí Night Run such a success.

From Salthill to Sligo and from Letterkenny to Ballina, the message was clear: when communities come together, every step can make a difference.

Judicial review proceedings brought by cycling advocate Shane Foran against the N6 Galway City Ring Road have been withdrawn.

Galway County Council, Galway City Council and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) have welcomed the decision, which follows engagement between Mr Foran, Galway City Council and the project team.

The discussions focused on the City Council’s wider transport functions and plans to improve cycling facilities across Galway City.

The project is being progressed by Galway County Council on behalf of both local authorities, in partnership with TII.

The two local authorities and TII said they remained committed to delivering the ring road alongside improvements to public transport, walking and cycling infrastructure, in line with the Galway Transport Strategy.

Council staff and the project team will continue to engage with homeowners along the proposed route, providing information and support as discussions continue on the acquisition of their homes.

The withdrawal brings all judicial review proceedings against the project to a close, allowing it to progress towards design and delivery.

University Hospital Galway is dealing with heavy overcrowding today after very high numbers of people coming to the emergency department over the weekend.

At the weekend 401 patients (196 Saturday and 205 Sunday), attended the Emergency Department. As of this morning, there are a total of 37 patients on trollies in ED and at ward level.

There are also significant additional surge beds in use due to the increased activity, which is impacting capacity.

UHG is asking all visitors to the hospital to use hand gel regularly to combat the increased rates of respiratory illness in the community at this time of year and protect patients.

If you have a cough, cold, sore throat or high temperature please do not visit a patient in the hospital. Please postpone your visit until at least 48 hours after your symptoms have cleared.

Keeping up to date with your vaccines is the most important thing you can do to avoid serious illness from flu and COVID-19. Find your nearest clinic here.

The hospital is implementing all possible measures to improve patient flow and reduce delays in the Emergency Department and is asking the public to consider all available healthcare options before attending.

Everyone who presents will be treated, with priority given to those who are seriously ill or injured. Patients who do not require urgent care unfortunately may experience longer waiting times.

All available beds in the hospital are in use, with patients facing long waiting times to be admitted from the Emergency Department to a bed on a ward.

East Galway’s tourism sector has been urged to build on recent investment, growing collaboration and improved promotion of the region as a visitor destination, with 100 tourism operators attending a networking event in Athenry.

The Uniquely East Galway Network Event, held at the Raheen Woods Hotel, brought together tourism businesses, community organisations, attractions, food producers and representatives of tourism and enterprise agencies to celebrate progress and explore opportunities for further growth.

Organised by Loretta Raftery and Galway County Council’s Tourism Team, the event focused on the progress made in developing East Galway as a visitor destination and the opportunities for local businesses to benefit from further growth.

The region has seen increased investment in tourism infrastructure, visitor experiences and promotional activity in recent years, including projects supported by the EU Just Transition Fund, which is coordinated locally by Fáilte Ireland with support from Galway County Council.

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr Andrew Reddington, said the event provided an opportunity to build on that work and raise the region’s profile.

“The strong turnout and positive atmosphere reflected growing momentum behind tourism development in East Galway, with local operators highlighting the value of connecting businesses, sharing experiences and working together to attract more visitors to the region.”

Michael Owens, Director of Services with responsibility for Tourism Development at Galway County Council, said bringing 100 operators together demonstrated the interest in developing the sector across the region.

He said the council would continue to work with local businesses, communities and tourism agencies to build on existing investment and encourage greater collaboration. He also acknowledged Fáilte Ireland’s support in hosting the event.

The event included presentations on tourism development, sustainable travel, business tourism and the East Galway Destination and Experience Development Plan, which is being led by Fáilte Ireland with the support of Galway County Council.

Local projects and tourism businesses were also showcased, including Leahy Beekeeping and The Living Bog. Representatives from the Local Enterprise Office and LEADER outlined funding opportunities and supports available to tourism operators.

New promotional resources were unveiled, including an East Galway tourism video, an updated visitor map, new photography and the Ballinasloe Area Community Development website.

John Neary, Galway County Council Tourism Officer, said collaboration between businesses would be important in attracting visitors and encouraging them to explore more of the region.

“Tourism development depends on strong local partnerships and on businesses having opportunities to learn from one another. The level of engagement at the event showed the appetite that exists to work together and make the most of East Galway’s tourism potential.”

Loretta Raftery, EU Just Transition Fund Tourism Activator with Galway County Council, said the event marked an opportunity to turn the investment and groundwork of recent years into further opportunities for local businesses.

“The Just Transition Fund has helped lay strong foundations for tourism in East Galway. There has been significant work to develop tourism projects, improve the visitor offering and promote the region. Bringing operators together allows us to build on that investment, create new connections and work collectively to put East Galway on the map.

“The response to the event was extremely positive. There is real enthusiasm for what can be achieved when businesses, communities and tourism partners work together to share the story of East Galway.”

The event concluded with structured business networking, facilitated by Hannah Healy of Runda, giving attendees the opportunity to make new connections, explore potential collaborations and identify ways to work together.

East Galway forms part of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, the slow-travel tourism region centred on the River Shannon and surrounding midland counties. The networking event is part of Galway County Council’s work with Fáilte Ireland and other partners to develop tourism in the region, in line with the Galway Tourism Strategy 2023–2031.

While many were enjoying Halloween celebrations on Saturday night, one Galway player received a prize worth €73,687 after matching five numbers and the bonus in the Lotto draw.

The weekend winner purchased their winning Quick Pick ticket on Friday, October 30 at Spar, Tuam Road, Mountbellew, Co. Galway.

The winning numbers in the Saturday 31st October Lotto draw were: 05, 07, 11, 20, 23, 26 and the bonus was 36.

The winner is advised to sign the back of their ticket and keep it safe. They should contact the Prize Claims team on 1800 666 222 or email claims@lotttery.ie and arrangements will be made for them to collect their prize at Lottery Headquarters.

National Lottery spokesperson Darragh O’Dwyer said, “Halloween brought a €73,687 surprise for one Galway player who matched five numbers and the bonus in Saturday night’s Lotto draw.”

“We’re encouraging anyone who purchased a Quick Pick ticket at Spar on the Tuam Road in Mountbellew to check their ticket carefully today, as one winning ticket is now worth an incredible €73,687.”

“And that’s not all, on Saturday night, we saw over 92,000 players nationwide win prizes across the Lotto and Plus draws!”

Meanwhile, as there was no winner of the €4,352,191 jackpot on offer, Monday night’s Lotto jackpot is now set to roll towards an estimated €4.5 million. Players dreaming of winning big are reminded that tickets can be purchased nationwide in-store, through the National Lottery app or online at www.lottery.ie ahead of the 7.45pm cut-off time for sales this evening.

Kind-hearted schools, families and community groups in Galway have been urged to participate in the 2026 Team Hope Christmas shoebox appeal ahead of the November 10 collection deadline.

Last year, the county helped the charity reach their three millionth shoebox gift by creating 12,590 shoeboxes for the appeal, and Team Hope distributed the gifts from Galway to children in Burkina Faso and Ukraine.

The international development organisation said it aims to send 200,000 shoeboxes filled with presents from Ireland to Africa and Eastern Europe for children who may not otherwise receive Christmas gifts.

Schools and employers, as well as individuals, sporting and community organisations – can get involved at www.teamhope.ie.

They can create their own shoeboxes – or donate €25 to have one created and delivered into the hands of a child for Christmas.

Shoeboxes contain the four ‘Ws’: Wear (clothing items); Wash (soaps, toothpaste, toothbrush); Write (colouring books, crayons, and markers) and Wow (toys and sweets).

As well as delivering shoebox gifts to children in Africa and Eastern Europe, Team Hope also delivers a range of community development initiatives which strengthen families, increase resilience and create lasting change.

“Christmas shoeboxes are a very simple concept, and an international act of kindness for tens of thousands of children across the world,” said Team Hope CEO, Deborah Lowry.

She personally witnessed the excitement and emotion as one child in Burundi, Africa, opened an Irish shoebox, with the joy shared by their parents.

“They felt they had not been forgotten about, and were so appreciative of the gifts. I really believe the incredible kindness and generosity of the Irish nation should be celebrated.”

Ms Lowry also met Suavis, a Burundi mother of nine, who went on to set up a catering business after taking part in a Team Hope programme.

“Sometimes all families need is a small opportunity and someone to believe in them,” added Ms Lowry.

“The support we receive from people across Ireland helps communities build brighter futures for their families. It all starts with a shoebox.”

The 2026 shoebox appeal was launched at FCJ Secondary School in Bunclody, Co Wexford, which has filled more than 30,000 Team Hope shoeboxes over the past two decades.

The students re-visited their old primary schools – and encouraged a new generation of boys and girls to get behind the life-changing campaign.

Completed shoeboxes can be handed over at 400 drop off points nationwide, or at any Mr Price outlet in Ireland, between November 1 and 10 but the public can donate €25 for a box to be made right up until Christmas Eve. To get involved, log on to teamhope.ie.

Ardrahan apprentice Seán Bermingham has won a top Construction Award at Ireland’s National Apprentice of the Year Awards 2026 ceremony.

Seán Bermingham who has completed and now graduated from the Stonecutting and Stonemasory apprenticeship with Irish Natural Stone was selected from 508 nominees nationwide to one of just 17 top accolades.

The award was presented at a ceremony in the RDS Concert Hall Dublin, attended by more than 500 guests.

Now self-employed and working mainly in the area of stone conservation since graduating from his apprenticeship, this award recognises 50-year-old Seán’s outstanding skills and contributions in Stonecutting, Stonemasonry and Construction, and highlights the superb apprenticeship talent developing across County Galway with apprenticeships.

Minister of State for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Marian Harkin TD presented 17 awards, including the overall Apprentice of the Year award to Sapna Sian, a Manufacturing Technology apprentice with Johnson & Johnson Vision Care in Limerick.

Seán Bermingham said, “I am honoured to receive this amazing Apprentice of the Year Construction Industry Award and delighted to have my skills and apprenticeship recognised nationally.”

“Stonecutting and Stonemasonry require practical ability, precision and a commitment to continuously improving creativity, knowledge of the craft and skills, and I am delighted to have my skills recognised with this national award.”

“My previous experience provided a strong foundation for developing my skills and career, and I would like to thank everyone who mentored and supported me along the journey. With special thanks to Mr.Tom Little and fellow classmates on the apprenticeship, I am delighted with this achievement.”

Speaking at the awards event, Minister Harkin said, “Apprentices are at the heart of Ireland’s skilled workforce. I wish to congratulate Seán Bermingham on his incredible achievement, along with all 508 nominees. Their talent, commitment and skills are helping to shape Ireland’s future workforce.”

Deirdre McDonnell, CEO of SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority of Ireland added, “Apprenticeships provide a valuable pathway to rewarding careers and help employers develop the skills they need. Congratulations to Sean Bermingham, Sapna Sian and all 17 award winners and every nominee on this well-deserved recognition.”

Hazel Johnston, the 2023 National Apprentice of the Year and a graduate of the Manufacturing Engineering apprenticeship, was presented with a ‘2026 Facts, Faces, Futures Outstanding Ambassador’ Award, recognising her contribution to raising awareness of apprenticeship as a career pathway for women.”

Overseen by SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority of Ireland, the National Apprentice of the Year Awards celebrates the finest talent across the apprenticeship system in Ireland who are building successful and rewarding career with apprenticeships.

Apprentices can be nominated by employers, training providers or anyone who knows an apprentice well. Nominees are judged on their skills and qualities in areas including leadership, teamwork, creativity and problem-solving.

Find out more about the Apprentice of the Year Awards and 89 national apprenticeships available at www.apprenticeship.ie.

The Emergency Department at University Hospital Galway continues to be extremely busy with high numbers of people attending the department who need to be admitted to hospital for ongoing treatment.

As of this morning, there are a total of 34 patients on trollies in ED and at ward level. There are also significant additional surge beds in use in due to the increased activity, which is impacting capacity.

The hospital is also managing Flu and COVID-19 outbreaks, which is impacting further on bed pressures.

The hospital is implementing all possible measures to improve patient flow and reduce delays in the Emergency Department and is asking the public to consider all available healthcare options before attending.

Everyone who presents will be treated, with priority given to those who are seriously ill or injured. Patients who do not require urgent care unfortunately may experience longer waiting times.

“All available beds in the hospital are in use,” a statement from UHG said. “Patients are facing long waiting times to be admitted from the Emergency Department to a bed on a ward.”

“Every effort is being made to discharge patients who are ready to go home so that beds will become available for patients who need to be admitted, at the earliest opportunity.”

Some elective procedures are being postponed as a result of the bed pressure today, with the hospital prioritising urgent and time sensitive cases.

“The hospital acknowledges that these delays are very difficult for patients and their families and apologises for the inconvenience and distress these delays cause.”

“We request that people only attend the Emergency Department at the hospital if it is an emergency situation. We ask that people attend their GP or out of hours service in the first instance if at all possible. The Roscommon Injury Unit is also open from 8am to 8pm daily, to treat a range of injuries in both adults and children over the age of five.

“The hospital is committed to treating everyone who presents at the Emergency Department; people who are seriously injured or ill are assessed and treated as a priority and those who do not require urgent care may be waiting longer.”

Community pharmacists provide expert advice and over-the-counter treatments for a wide range of minor illnesses. In addition to this expert advice, a new service is available which allows pharmacists to supply prescription-only medication without the need to see a GP.

The following common conditions can be treated under the Common Conditions Service; allergic rhinitis, cold sores, conjunctivitis, impetigo, oral thrush, shingles, cystitis (uncomplicated urinary tract infection), vaginal thrush.

A series of bespoke street furniture pieces designed and crafted by local students has been installed at prominent public locations in Clifden, marking the first visible outcome of an international partnership supporting communities that conserve tropical forests in South America, bringing a fresh wave of creativity and sustainability to the heart of Connemara.

The initiative promotes responsible forest product use, out of which students from ATU Letterfrack have created a series of striking street furniture now installed in prominent public infrastructure around the town of Clifden.

Galway County Council, working with Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Connemara in Letterfrack and the Cities4Forests Partner Forest Programme, is the first Irish local authority to join the initiative. The collaboration aims to help remove millions of tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere while promoting more responsible timber procurement in Ireland.

The installations follow a visit by Students from ATU Connemara’s School of Design & Creative Arts to Guatemala, where they examined low‑impact forestry and community‑led conservation across more than 320,000 acres of rainforest.

The furniture now in place in Clifden was produced using conservation‑grade tropical timber sourced from sustainably managed community forests in Uaxactún and Carmelita.

As part of the wider project, Galway County Council and its partners are developing a sustainable purchasing policy for timber used in furniture and construction across the county.

Galway County Council Chief Executive Liam Conneally encourages everyone to explore these remarkable new additions of street furniture at various locations throughout the town of Clifden.

“We were honoured to be the only Irish partner in this programme, and I encourage people to explore and enjoy these remarkable pieces of street furniture now installed around Clifden,” he said.

“By using conservation timber sourced through partner forests, the initiative shows how thoughtful design can reduce environmental impact while improving public spaces.” 

Head of ATU Connemara Campus Paul Leamy said the project demonstrates how design education can contribute to global forest protection while delivering tangible benefits locally.

“The students have produced exceptional pieces, and we now invite the public to view these installations and learn more about safeguarding tropical forests and the conservation benefits of using sustainably sourced wood,” he explained.

“Whether you’re taking in the scenery or waiting for the bus, the furniture blends modern aesthetics with natural materials and is crafted to foster a sense of community.”

Scott Francisco, Director of Cities4Forests and founder of Pilot Projects, said the programme helps build “mutually beneficial relationships” between local authorities and forest‑dependent communities abroad, supporting biodiversity, climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods.

More information is available at www.cities4forests.com.

Elf Town Galway, Ireland’s largest immersive Christmas experience, will return from November 20th to December 23rd, 2026, with its most ambitious redevelopment to date, unveiling a fully reimagined festive world, new characters and a free-flow visitor experience designed for little and large explorers.

Set within Galway Racecourse in Ballybrit, the venue has been redeveloped into a multi-floor indoor Christmas environment, where little and large explorers move through a theatrical, walk-through journey. Designed for children aged 2 to 12, the experience combines meeting Santa Claus, live performances, interactive play and storytelling.

For 2026, Elf Town introduces a new free-flow format that invites visitors to wander through the experience at their own pace, following a thoughtfully designed one-way narrative route that enhances both accessibility and the sense of discovery throughout.

At the heart of Elf Town is an expanded cast of characters who bring renewed energy and warmth to the story. Guests on the standard tour will meet familiar favourites alongside new personalities including Sunny, Silver Sam, Jinglebeats, Candy Cane, Cheeky Charlie, Woody the Wise Old Oak, Wizz, Beau and a lively group of reindeer friends, each helping to guide families deeper into the festive world.

The experience unfolds across a series of richly imagined environments, from the Welcome Emporium and Festive Fair to the bustling Town Square, the enchanted Woodland Walk and the whimsical Cookie Factory. These spaces blend detailed theatrical set design with projections, animatronics and interactive features, creating a fully immersive festive atmosphere.

Along the way, visitors are treated to a live welcome show, hands-on activities and a series of immersive play zones and a meeting with Santa Claus. Every child also receives their own Elf Town passport, a gold coin for use at the toy shop and a collection of festive keepsakes to take home.

For those looking for a shorter visit, a new Express option has been introduced for 2026, offering a condensed 30-minute version of the experience. The attraction is fully wheelchair accessible, with dedicated sensory-friendly sessions taking place on November 21st and December 4th.

Located 6km from Galway city centre, the venue offers on-site parking and public transport access