For the winter solstice on 21 December, Samaritans Galway is calling on local businesses to light up their premises in green, marking the Longest Night and showing solidarity with those who may be struggling during the darkest time of the year.

The Longest Night campaign highlights that while the nights may be long, Samaritans’ volunteers are always there to listen, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for anyone who is in distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide.

Samaritans Galway, which will mark 50 years in Ireland in 2026, provides a unique and vital service: 100% human support, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Every call and message are answered by a trained volunteer, ensuring compassion, empathy and human understanding are always at the centre of the support offered.

Samaritans Galway is extending an invitation to those who may be considering volunteering. The role involves listening, without judgement, and offering compassion to people in need.

With full training provided, volunteers say the experience is one of the most rewarding and purposeful things they have ever done, whether they have given a few months of their time while living in Galway, or over 25 years of continuous service.

By turning their shopfronts, offices, and landmarks green, Galway businesses can help spread the message that support is available to everyone, day or night.

The initiative aims to spark conversations around mental health, encourage people to seek help when needed, and remind communities that nobody has to face their darkest nights alone.

“A simple act like lighting up in green can have a profound impact. It sends a powerful message of hope, especially on the longest night of the year, that Samaritans are always here to listen,” said a spokesperson for Samaritans Ireland.

“Volunteering with Samaritans is more than just giving time – it is about saving lives, offering comfort, and making a real difference. Many of our volunteers describe it as the most purposeful thing they have ever done.”

Find out more about volunteering and opportunities at www.samaritans.org/ireland. Anyone in need of support: Call Samaritans free on 116 123 at any time, day or night.

A Galway nursing home professional has been recognised among Ireland’s best at the NHI Care Awards 2025, the leading national celebration of excellence in nursing home care.

Kathryn Lavelle, from An Teaghlach Uilinn, Kilrainey, Moycullen, received the Quality Enhancement Award, sponsored by BDO Ireland.

Kathryn was honoured at the NHI Care Awards ceremony on Thursday, 6th November 2025, in the Round Room at the Mansion House, Dublin.

The event was attended by the Minister for Older People, Kieran O’Donnell TD, who also presented an award on the night. The ceremony celebrated exceptional care being delivered every day across nursing homes in Ireland.

There were over 250 nominations submitted from across the country, with 34 finalists selected by an independent judging panel representing nursing, academia, and the wider health and social care sector.

The evening brought together colleagues, families, and representatives from every corner of Ireland, with an atmosphere of celebration, positivity, and excitement filling the Round Room as winners were announced.

“The NHI Care Awards celebrate the extraordinary dedication of those who provide compassionate, person-centred care every day,” said Tadhg Daly, CEO of Nursing Homes Ireland.

“Kathryn Lavelle, reflects the innovation, quality focus, and resident-centred values that underpin excellence in nursing home care. Her commitment to continuous improvement and her contribution to enhancing the quality of life for residents represent the very best of our profession.”

“I also wish to extend warm congratulations to all those nominated across the country this year. Each nominee represents the compassion, commitment, and expertise that underpin quality nursing home care nationwide.”

“We extend our sincere thanks to Minister Kieran O’Donnell TD for attending and presenting an award on the night, and to all our sponsors for their continued support, in particular to Homecare Medical, our long-standing awards partner and key sponsor, whose commitment helps make this national celebration of care possible.”

The Nursing Homes Ireland (NHI) Care Awards, held in association with Homecare Medical, are the leading national celebration of excellence in nursing home care.

The NHI Care Awards honour the dedication, compassion, and professionalism shown by individuals and teams supporting more than 27,000 people living in nursing homes across Ireland.

The Awards recognise outstanding achievements and best practice in every aspect of care, from clinical excellence and innovation to teamwork, resident wellbeing, and quality improvement.

By highlighting these exceptional contributions, the NHI Care Awards showcase the vital role that nursing home care plays in enabling residents to live life to its fullest.

The Aran Islands RNLI Lifeboat Station welcomed multiple new members to its volunteer crew recently.

Avril Ní Shearcaigh, Stacy Ní Iarnáin, Fionn Ó Flaithearta and Peter Alan Joyce each passed their assessment on Tuesday afternoon by Coastal Lifeboat Trainer Sean Ginnelly.

Stacy Ní Iarnáin and Fionn Ó Flaithearta sat an assessment to successfully pass out as Launch Authority, a vital role to approve the launch of the lifeboat when requested by the Irish Coast guard, liaising with the coxswain and paging the lifeboat crew.

Peter Alan Joyce successfully passed out his Tier one Crew plan after many hours of training and hard work.

Peter Alan was assessed on anchoring, rope handling and local knowledge ensuring he has mastered the essential techniques and procedures required for this critical role.

Avril Ní Shearcaigh has joined the Aran Islands station as Lifeboat Operations Manager. Avril was a crew member at the lifeboat station for several years and has now returned to lead the station personnel and volunteers.

She will now be responsible for managing all operational activities at the station. Avril, who is a mom to four and the manager of Comharchumann Fuinnimh Oileáin Árann, brings a wealth of leadership and management experience to the station.

Commenting on her new role, Avril said, ‘I’m delighted to be joining the station as Lifeboat Operations Manager. It’s been a busy year for all our volunteers, with 56 launches so far this year.”

“The lifeboat is our lifeline, so I’m happy to be a part of the team that keeps it ready to respond whenever it’s needed and help continue saving lives at sea.”

“I would like to congratulate Stacy and Fionn and to Peter Alan for passing their assessments. Also, a big congratulations to Coxswain Afloat mechanic, Ciaran Doyle.”

“Ciaran has been training on Inis Mór for the past week and was passed out as a Severn Class Coxswain. We are delighted for him, and we’ll be looking forward to working with him in the near future.”

Atlantic Technological University (ATU) is bringing the wonder of Science Week 2025 to even the most remote corners of the west coast, including the Aran Islands and Gaeltacht communities across Galway, through its innovative Rainbow Lab (Saotharlann an Bhogha Báistí) initiative.

The project, designed for children aged 4 to 8, transforms simple household materials such as water, milk, and food colouring into tools for discovery.

Through easy-to-follow, bilingual activities, the Rainbow Lab helps children explore key scientific principles like light refraction, diffusion, and colour mixing — all while making science fun and accessible.

Already, more than 66 schools nationwide have taken part in the programme, with many in Galway’s island and Gaeltacht areas receiving Rainbow Lab kits containing all necessary materials.

Teachers and parents can also access video demonstrations via QR codes, ensuring the experiments can be carried out in classrooms or at home, in both English and Irish.

“Rainbow Lab is about sparking curiosity and showing children that science is everywhere — in the colours they see every day,” said Dr Oran Morris of ATU. “By making experiments fun and accessible, we hope to inspire a lifelong love of learning.”

The project’s reach into Gaeltacht regions and the islands brings STEM learning beyond urban centres, ensuring that island and rural communities are equally engaged in national initiatives like Science Week.

Co-funded by ATU and Research Ireland, the Rainbow Lab shows how creative outreach can bridge distances — from the classrooms of Galway city to the shores of Inis Mór and the heart of Connemara — making science a shared adventure for young minds across the west.

Clarinbridge has been named winner of the ‘300 – 1,000 Population’ category at the 2025 IPB Pride of Place Awards, held this week.

Nominated by Galway County Council to represent the county in the all-island competition, the south Galway village was selected for its exemplary community development efforts.

The Pride of Place Awards, now in their 23rd year, are organised by Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance.

The programme recognises voluntary groups that demonstrate a strong commitment to improving their local areas through collaboration and civic engagement.

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr David Collins, said, “Clarinbridge’s Pride of Place win is a fantastic endorsement of the dedication and creativity shown by its residents.”

“Their commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive community is truly commendable. I also want to recognise the Marconi Men’s Shed, whose pioneering work and promoting wellbeing sets a powerful example.”

“These groups reflect the best of what Galway has to offer, and my elected member colleagues and I are proud to stand behind them.”

Established in 1979, the Clarinbridge Tidy Towns group has played a central role in enhancing the village’s physical and social environment.

It has been a part of projects involving the maintenance of local landmarks such as The Green, Parish Hall, Kilcornan Estate, and Cowpark. The village also promotes heritage and environmental care through the development of walking trails and green spaces.

Judges commended Clarinbridge’s partnerships with organisations including the Clarinbridge Men’s Shed and SCCUL Sanctuary, as well as its annual events such as Clarinbridge Market Day and Halloween on the Green.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, stated, “Clarinbridge’s success is a proud moment for County Galway and a testament to the strength of community spirit in our towns and villages.”

“I want to warmly congratulate everyone involved in achieving this national recognition. I also want to pay tribute to the Marconi Men’s Shed in Clifden, whose remarkable work in promoting wellbeing and inclusion continues to inspire.”

“Both groups exemplify the values of collaboration, resilience and local pride that the Council is committed to supporting across the county. Well done to everyone involved, including our dedicated Council staff.”

The Marconi Men’s Shed in Clifden also represented Galway County in this year’s competition, competing in the ‘Community Wellbeing’ category.

Although not a category winner, the group was recognised for its innovative approach to supporting male family carers and promoting health and wellbeing in the Connemara region.

The Clarinbridge Tidy Towns group was represented at the awards ceremony by Ronan Kavanagh and Mary Daly.

Ms. Daly said, “We are absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured that Clarinbridge has been named overall winner of its category, which is a true testament to everyone in our village.”

“From the Cowpark and Kilcornan Trails to Market Day and Halloween on the Green, every initiative reflects the spirit of collaboration and pride that defines Clarinbridge.”

Mr. Kavanagh added, “This award belongs to everyone who has ever picked up a paintbrush, planted a flower, or simply anyone who volunteered or shared our journey.”

The two nominated County Galway projects were visited by IPB Pride of Place judges in September, when group representatives made formal presentations before hosting tours that highlighted the elements of the community and volunteer efforts of which they are most proud.

Michael Owens, Director of Services with responsibility for Corporate Services and Rural, Community & Tourism Development & Integration, commented, “Galway’s successful participation in Pride of Place down through the years highlights the scale and breadth of activity taking place in communities across the county.”

“While the competition provides a platform to showcase these achievements, it is the everyday work of these organisations that continues to inspire us and reinforces our commitment to supporting their efforts.”

The win adds to Galway’s strong track record in the Pride of Place competition. Last year, Kinvara Tidy Towns and Williamstown were named runners-up in their categories, and in 2023, Creggs Rural Development Group won the Climate Action and Biodiversity category.

UHG has reported high pressure on its bed capacity and emergency department in recent days, which is expected to continue into the weekend.

University Hospital Galway is advising that the Emergency Department has been exceptionally busy in recent days, with high levels of people attending and admissions.

This increased activity is expected to continue over the weekend. Yesterday, Thursday, November 6, a total of 274 people attended the Emergency Department.

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.

Due to the pressures on the site and the lack of bed capacity, the hospital is postponing some elective procedures.

Urgent, time sensitive cases are being prioritised. Patients are being contacted directly if their procedure is being postponed.

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

“If you or your family become unwell this weekend, please consider your local pharmacy or out of hours GP in the first instance,” a hospital spokesperson said.

“Roscommon injury unit is open from 8am to 8pm every day and can treat a wide range of breaks, sprains, burns and minor wounds.”

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

“As always, people who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend EDs where they will be prioritised.”

Lough Corrib has been badly affected by algae blooms around its shores, with some areas particularly strongly affected.

Galway County Council has said that “unseasonal warm and calm weather” is likely responsible for the algal blooms.

This has been reported on all shores of Lough Corrib. The areas reported to be worst hit are Kilbeg pier, Annaghdown, Oughterard, Birchall Bay, Glann shore, Derrymoyle Bay, Rinneroon Bay, and Golden Bay.

The county council has advised that some algae can produce toxins and their presence can potentially cause a risk to human and animal health.

People are advised to avoid contact with areas of shoreline and water which have been affected by algae, and not to swim in them.

Animals should not be allowed to drink water from affected areas, as it may pose a severe health risk.

If you do come into contact with the algal bloom, you should shower/ wash as soon as possible to remove algal matter. Wash all affected clothing and equipment thoroughly.

If you have any further queries regarding this notice, please contact Galway County Council Environment Section Tel: 091 509510 or email environment@galwaycoco.ie.

The Clifden RNLI recovered a submerged sailing boat spotted overturned in Clifden Bay on Wednesday after a call out from the Coast Guard.

A crew member had spotted the upturned hull of a boat in Clifden Bay, which also raised concerns for the sailor of the boat.

Given the short distance from the lifeboat station, Clifden RNLI Helm Joe Acton launched the Silinger boat to investigate. Joe was assisted on the shout by crew members Kenny Flaherty and Dan Whelan.

The vessel was located near the White Lady shoremark in Clifden Bay. It was a small sailing boat which had been in the water for some time and there was nothing to suggest a person was in difficulty.

The submerged boat was causing a navigational hazard for mariners accessing Clifden Bay, so the decision was made to tow it back to shore.

Speaking about the shout Helm Joe Acton said, “As the Winter draws and sea conditions worsen it’s important for anyone going to sea to wear a life-jacket, have a VHF radio or means of calling for help, check the tides and weather and ensure your vessel is sea-worthy.”

“Nobody intends to get in trouble on the water but always call 999/112 and ask for the Coast Guard at the first sign of distress, Clifden RNLI are ready to respond 24/7.”

Breast cancer research scientists at University of Galway have secured a new five-year €1.4 million project to drive the next generation of cancer care as part of Precision Oncology Ireland.

The research is funded by €700,000 from the National Breast Cancer Research Institute (NBCRI), which is matched by Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland.

Supported by the Galway University Foundation, the new commitment by NBCRI to breast cancer research at University of Galway builds on the Signature Partnership with the charity which was announced in May 2025.

It also reaffirms NBCRI’s focus on a research-informed approach to improving patient outcomes, delivered by cancer research experts.

The Precision Oncology Ireland programme will support research by Professor Róisín Dwyer, Professor Aoife Lowery and Professor Michael Kerin, all of whom are based at the University’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences and the Lambe Institute, linking translational and clinical research.

The new investment will enable translational breast cancer research, including:

• Investigation of the potential for treatment of advanced breast cancer using short sequences of RNA – the molecule in all cells which carries genetic codes.
• Identification of biomarkers to predict how patients will respond to treatment, to ensure they only receive beneficial treatments.
• Increasing understanding of factors that impact the quality of life of patients undergoing chemotherapy, such as treatment toxicity, anxiety, exercise.

The research partnership is part of Precision Oncology Ireland Phase 2 which was formally launched by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless T.D.

Precision Oncology Ireland is a consortium of universities, charities and international companies, collaborating to deliver next-generation cancer care in Ireland.

The new commitment, extending to 2030, expands the work progressed in the first iteration of Precision Oncology Ireland, cementing established research collaborations and developing new ones.

Professor Róisín Dwyer, Principal Investigator at University of Galway’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, led the application for the Precision Oncology Ireland research project on behalf of University of Galway and NBCRI.

Professor Dwyer said, “Precision Oncology Ireland-2 provides a unique ecosystem where experts from a broad range of backgrounds come together with a common goal – to improve quality of life and outcomes for cancer patients.”

“We are delighted to continue our involvement in this impactful consortium and look forward to contributing to development of approaches to ensure patients receive appropriate targeted therapies while minimising side effects.”

Caroline Loughnane, Chairperson of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute, said, “The mission of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute is to raise funds to support world-class breast cancer research at University of Galway.”

“We are delighted to match the funding from Research Ireland to support the Precision Oncology Ireland breast cancer research programme at the Lambe Institute.”

“Partnering with national research consortia and collaborators is critical for sharing knowledge to improve our understanding of breast cancer, with the goal of delivering better treatments for patients.”

The public in Galway is being invited to help shape a strategy to guide the county’s public libraries over the next five years.

Galway Public Libraries are inviting members of the public to participate in a short survey to help shape the future of library services across the city and county.

The feedback gathered will directly inform the development of a new 5-year strategic plan, ensuring that library services continue to meet the evolving needs of the community.

The survey takes approximately 5–7 minutes to complete and is open from 3rd to 13th November 2025.

All completed surveys will be entered into a prize draw for a €100 book voucher, as a token of appreciation for your time and insights.

Library users, community members, and stakeholders are encouraged to share their views on current services and suggest improvements or new ideas.

Your input will help Galway Public Libraries continue to provide inclusive, innovative, and responsive services for all.

Take the survey online here: Galway Libraries – Public Consultation Survey 2025

Galway Rape Crisis Centre (GRCC) has officially opened the doors to its new building and permanent home in The Claddagh, Galway City, marking a historic moment in the organisation’s more than four decades of service to the community.

The official opening took place on Monday, November 3, and was attended by Mayor of Galway, Councillor Mike Cubbard and Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan.

Together with the Board of Management, Executive Director and team, supporters, and members of the community, they celebrated a milestone made possible through years of dedication, advocacy, and the generous backing of those who believed in the Centre’s mission.

Founded in 1984, Galway Rape Crisis Centre provides vital, free, and confidential support to survivors of sexual violence and abuse across Galway and the western region. The move to a permanent home represents not only stability for the organisation but also a place of safety and dignity for all who need its services.

“This building stands as a testament to hope, to courage, and to community. For forty years, GRCC has walked alongside survivors, listening, supporting, and helping to rebuild lives,” explained Executive Director of GRCC Cathy Connolly.

“The creation of this new home was made possible by extraordinary generosity and belief in our work. It is more than bricks and mortar, it is a symbol of healing and of a society that refuses to turn away.”

The new building was realised through a combination of public funding, private donations, pro bono work and community support. Key donors and partners recognised the urgent need for a dedicated, purpose-built space to ensure GRCC can continue to expand its counselling services, outreach programmes, and education initiatives.

The Claddagh location, rooted in Galway’s heritage and sense of community reflects the Centre’s commitment to accessibility, compassion, and belonging. Designed to provide warmth, privacy, and a sense of calm, the building includes counselling rooms, group spaces, and areas for training and education.

Minister O’Callaghan acknowledged the essential work of GRCC and the importance of ensuring survivors have a safe and supportive place to turn to.

“The Galway Rape Crisis Centre plays a vital role in supporting victims and survivors of sexual violence and in challenging attitudes that allow such harm to persist.”

“Sexual violence remains a pervasive issue, affecting thousands across the country, and one of the key objectives in our ‘Zero Tolerance’ Strategy is to encourage victims and survivors to come forward, to access support and ultimately to report the crimes that are being committed against them.”

“I believe this new home for GRCC represents real progress in that objective, as well as compassion, and a collective commitment to justice.”

Mayor Mike Cubbard commended the resilience and leadership shown by the GRCC team and the people of Galway who have supported the Centre’s work for decades.

The opening of GRCC’s new home is both a celebration and a reminder of the ongoing need to support survivors, to educate, and to continue building a society grounded in respect and empathy.

To find out more log onto www.galwayrcc.ie.

The 2025 National Organ Donation Conference, themed “Conversations that Matter” recently took place in Galway and brought together healthcare professionals, donor families, and transplant recipients to reflect on a significant year in Ireland’s organ donation landscape.

The conference was organised by hospital-based Organ Donation Nurse Managers, who advocate for the potential organ donor and their wishes.

Over 100 critical care healthcare professionals from all health regions across the country attended to share experiences and reflect on best practices in organ donation and end-of-life conversations.

As part of the Irish Hospice Foundation’s Quality Improvement Initiative, Organ Donation Nurse Managers, in collaboration with the National Healthcare Communication Programme, created training videos designed to enhance end-of-life organ donation discussions in ICUs nationwide.

Winifred Ryan, HSE National Lead for National Healthcare Communication Programme said, “Healthcare delivery is fundamentally a social interaction, placing the patient at the core of its activities.”

“The need to communicate well is magnified in caring situations: when people are anxious, vulnerable or grieving, when they need to trust others to take care of them or their loved ones.”

“When they are trying to process information and make decisions based on this information. This has particular relevance in the context of organ donation, where communicating with families requires careful navigation of their emotions, wishes and concerns as well as the wishes of their loved ones.”

Donor families and transplant recipients shared their personal experiences, highlighting the human impact of organ donation on the day.

Martina Goggin, from the Strange Boat Foundation and Circle of Life Garden in Salthill, Galway, shared, “If we had not been asked about organ donation, we may never have considered it. At that time, all our focus was on Eamon making it through.”

“I also feel it is hugely important that whoever from the healthcare profession in the ICU speaks to the family does so with empathy and has full knowledge of the process so they can answer the questions that families may have.”

Alceina O’Brien, a transplant recipient, reflected on the lasting impact of her donor family’s decision.

“I often think of my donor family. While we were experiencing happiness, relief, and joy, there was another family, parallel to ours, grieving the loss of their loved one, who had made an incredibly difficult decision. I am truly grateful to my donor and their family.”

Tony Canavan, Regional Executive Officer, HSE West and North West, in attendance at the conference, said, “Last year, 263 organ transplants from Irish donors took place, a truly staggering number that reflects the compassion, skill, and selflessness of so many people.

“To all staff across hospitals and ICUs nationwide, thank you. The care you provide demands not only great expertise but also great sensitivity and you deliver that with consistency and dedication.”

“We’re also working in a time of significant change. The introduction of the Human Tissue Act this year is reshaping how we work and how we connect with patients and each other.”

“Conferences like this are vital. They help us learn, adapt, and continue to provide the highest standard of care.”

As Ireland moves forward under the Human Tissue Act, the National Organ Donation Conference continues to promote a culture of empathy, understanding and respect in all donation-related conversations.

Through education, collaboration, and shared experience, healthcare professionals reaffirm their commitment to ensuring that every conversation about organ donation truly matters for patients, families and healthcare staff alike.

Galway City will be lighting up for the festivities, with the city council investing more in the much loved Christmas lights that brighten the streets each holiday season.

Mayor Mike Cubbard, welcomed the announcement, stating, “Galway’s Christmas lights are a source of joy and pride for our community, and this year we’re going bigger, bolder, and brighter.”

“This investment reflects our commitment to supporting local businesses, celebrating our unique identity, and creating a festive atmosphere that welcomes everyone—from lifelong Galwegians to first-time visitors.”

“I want to thank my fellow councillors for backing this vision and helping light up Galway in a way that truly reflects the spirit of the season.”

This enhanced investment will fund a comprehensive programme of improvements and expansions to the city’s Christmas lighting, including:

• Extension of the Spanish Arch display, building on the success of the 2024 installation and further illuminating the historic core of the city.
• A new signature lighting piece at the Claddagh Basin, celebrating Galway’s maritime heritage with a striking, photogenic centrepiece
• A contemporary Christmas ‘tree’ installation at the Salthill roundabout, welcoming visitors and locals with festive cheer as they arrive to Salthill
• New lighting at the Small Crane, transforming this beloved neighbourhood square into a warm and inviting winter gathering space.
• Repairs and upgrades across the city, ensuring reliability, sustainability, and an even more magical atmosphere throughout the festive period.

This investment is being funded through the increased commercial rates applied in the city this year.

In addition to the new light, a programme of activities and events will be funded over the Christmas holidays and the New Year. This will include the family friendly New Year’s countdown event in the City Centre.

To complement the lighting enhancements, Galway City Council will also launch a ‘Shop Local, Shine Bright’ campaign, encouraging residents and visitors to support Galway’s independent retailers, cafés, and service providers throughout the Christmas period.

The campaign will include promotional materials, social media spotlights on local businesses, and festive events to drive engagement and community spirit in partnership with business groups in the city.

Chief Executive of Galway City, Leonard Cleary, stated that, “Galway’s Christmas lights are more than decoration—they’re a symbol of community, celebration, and economic vitality.”

“This year’s expanded programme is a direct reinvestment in our city centre and neighbourhoods, supporting footfall, local pride, and the magic that makes Galway so special during the festive season.”

In addition, Galway City Council is proud to sponsor the ‘Best Dressed Business’ competition in cooperation with Galway Chamber and Gaillimh le Gaeilge.

Local businesses across all sectors are invited to decorate their windows and shopfronts with festive, creative displays that capture the magic of Christmas in Galway. Participants are encouraged to include Irish language elements to celebrate our bilingual city.

Public voting will take place online, giving the community a chance to choose their favourite display and support local creativity. Winners will receive promotional features, prizes, and recognition for their contribution to Galway’s Christmas charm.

This friendly competition is designed to boost footfall, encourage community participation, and showcase the ingenuity of Galway’s business community.

An incredible new visitor experience has opened at Connemara National Park this month, with a unique heritage centre celebrating the world renowned Connemara Pony.

For generations, the much-loved Connemara Pony has been recognised as Ireland’s native breed, and this exciting new experience will pay tribute to the Connemara Pony’s valuable contribution to Ireland’s and Connemara’s heritage.

Connemara National Park has a long association with the Connemara Pony, as the first ponies arrived when the Park first opened in 1980, and are descendants of the Connemara Ponies that President Erskine Childers gifted to the Irish State in 1974.

The Connemara Pony Heritage Centre at Letterfrack was opened by Galway West John Connolly last Friday.

Speaking at the opening, Deputy Connolly said, “The Connemara Pony Heritage Centre is a great addition to Connemara National Park. It gives visitors a chance to learn more about the Connemara Pony, a breed that is closely tied to the history and identity of this region.”

“The ponies have been part of the Park since it opened in 1980, and now we have a space that properly showcases their story and their connection to the land.”

Free to visit seven days per week and accessible for all, this exclusive new centre will celebrate the Connemara Pony, its unique equine personality and contribution to Irish life, heritage and pony lovers worldwide.

The centre will share the exceptional history, legacy, tradition and culture of the beautiful Connemara Pony in story, narration and visual exhibits.

The incredible exhibits combine both digital and traditional imagery and film, along with potential immersive learning for all age groups from young children to adults.

All of this will, of course, be combined with meeting the beautiful Connemara Pony.

Eugene Finnerty, Regional Manager at Connemara National Park, said, “The Connemara Pony Heritage Centre is a seamless collaboration between the staff at Connemara National Park who provide strong support and huge commitment to our natural and cultural heritage.”

“The team have invested time, energy and incredible initiative into this project, combining their talents, knowledge and expertise to create an exciting and captivating Centre dedicated to the Connemara Pony.”

“It will be an excellent educational and inspiring addition to both life, learning and tourism in Connemara, Galway and on the Wild Atlantic Way.”

“Providing wide appeal to locals, Galwegians, domestic and international visitors and of course Connemara Pony lovers from all over the island of Ireland and across the world.”

At the height of the summer season, visitors will have the excitement of meeting a Connemara Pony up close within the centre.

They will learn from expert Cathy Snow and through a highly interactive and innovative exhibition about the importance of this pony breed and what makes them so special, both in Ireland and across the world.

For all details on the new Connemara Pony Heritage Centre at Connemara National Park, please check out www.nationalparks.ie

Heavy rain is forecast for Galway tonight and throughout Monday, as Met Éireann has issued a weather warning for four counties.

The Status Yellow weather warning for Galway, Clare, Mayo, and Kerry will be in effect from 8pm Sunday until 8pm Monday.

From tonight, Galway can expect to see persistent rain, turning heavy at times.

Possible impacts include localised flooding and difficult travelling conditions with poor visibility.

Highest afternoon temperatures today of 9 to 12 degrees in moderate to fresh southwest winds.