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Galway-based software firm acquired by Genesys

By
Michael Malone
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Galway Daily news Eyre Square vigil planned for 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday

Galway-based software firm Altocloud has been acquired by Genesys, with the US firm saying  this acquisition enables them to grow their AI expertise.

Genesys say that they are looking forward to further growing and investing in the Galway team in the foreseeable future.

Genesys says that Altocloud’s customer journey management solution pairs well with its Blended AI strategy, which combines AI with the ‘power of the human touch’.

This is furthered by Kate, the personification of Genesys AI, automation and machine learning, who helps customers and live agents solve problems faster and more efficiently.

The company believes that the acquisition of Galway-based Altocloud enables it to grow its AI expertise because “Altocloud has an incredibly talented and innovative team, and there’s no denying they’re a great addition to the Genesys organization both technically and culturally.”

Dr. Peter Graf, Chief Product Officer of Genesys said that from an architectural perspective, because Altocloud is a true cloud offering built upon microservices, it’s a perfect complement to thier development strategy for our three core offerings, PureEngage, PureConnect, and PureCloud.

“The Altocloud acquisition also gives Genesys a presence in an exciting emerging technology hub – Galway, Ireland. And, we look forward to further growing and investing in the Galway team in the foreseeable future.

“I could go on about what why this is such a great pairing, but to put it simply…we’re energized by the infusion of new talent and technology that has come into the Genesys fold and we extend a warm welcome to Team Altocloud!” said Dr Graf, in his blog which can be read here.

Galway to receive €950,000 for investment in private roads

By
Michael Malone
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galway daily private roads scheme €950,000
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Galway has been allocated almost €950,000 under the 2018 Local Improvement Scheme which was launched today by Michael Ring TD.

Galway West TD Sean Kyne said: “I’m delighted to confirm the allocation of €942,000 for Galway County Council as part of the Local Improvement Scheme.”

The Scheme provides investment in roads that are used by the public to access homes, farms, businesses or amenities but are not in public ownership.

“At the Department we have worked to maximise the amount of funding available for the Scheme on a national basis and I’m pleased to be able to confirm that Galway has received the second highest allocation in the country. My Department will provide up to 90% of the funding to local authorities for the improvements with local residents providing the remainder.

“Of particular benefit is the early provision of the LIS funding for this year. This enables the local authorities, including Galway County Council, to incorporate Local Improvement Scheme projects into their own road improvement programmes increasing the efficiency of the works and maximising the value of the allocation, said the Fine Gael TD.

GALWAY CAMOGIE: (Reaction) – SARAH DERVAN

By
Darren Kelly
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Sarah Dervan

Galway secured a Littlewoods National Camogie League semi-final place on Sunday after coming through Wexford in their final Group One match. 

Two Ailish O’Reilly goals and 11 Rebecca Hennelly points saw the Tribeswomen’s put up an impressive score in their 2-16 to 4-8 victory in Wexford Park.

The four conceded goals will occupy Tony O’Donovan’s mind ahead of a semi-final meeting with Kilkenny on March 11th.  But the manager will be happy how his team responded despite those setbacks.

Galway captain Sarah Dervan joined us for a chat after the final whistle and said it felt like a knock out game but they were delighted with the result.

“There was a bit of a bite to it now,” said Dervan.  “I think both teams went hammer and thongs at it.  And I suppose there was a semi-final in the league at stake.  We needed to win that and thank God we held out just at the end by two points.

“Two of them (Wexford’s goals) were definitely my fault.  I just got caught.  But we responded well.  Niamh Hanniffy up there is unbelievable.  She’s getting ball and they’re coughing it and Ailish (O’Reilly) came into the game mighty.

“It was a do-or-die kind of a game for us and fair play to our forwards.  They stood up and were counted for.

“More like nearly a rugby match at times.  She still got two goals on me I suppose.  I won’t forget that I think for a long time.  But we got the win and hopefully that’s all that matters.

“Ailish got two savage goals and Becky (Rebecca Hennelly) was on fire up there.  I think she scored every free that she put down bar one.  It was just a dogged kind of a match.  And in fairness, everybody worked well.

“We’ll be sore for a while tomorrow I think.  But we’ve a semi-final now to look forward to and that’s the main thing.”

Hear the full interview BELOW

Darren’s Diary – Kicking The Habit (Day 7) – Monday, 26th February 

By
Darren Kelly
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I don’t mind telling ye – I’m absolutely wrecked!  I don’t know if it’s all the travelling yesterday, the stressful morning, the busy weekend or even a lack of nicotine.  But I am absolutely shattered. 

I think I’ve been away with the fairies all day.  Even doing the school run tomorrow, I turned the wrong way at the head of the road before realising my mistake.  I could imagine explaining to Kate’s mother why I brought her back to Ballinasloe instead of school.

Funnily enough, Kate is normally quick to spot these mistakes but she was in her own world too.  I think we just were having a tired Monday start.

After I wrote last night, I headed straight into a checkpoint.  Now it was just the tax and insurance on the window but met the politest guard ever.  He asked kindly could he check my windscreen before doing it and sending me on my way.  Don’t think No would have been an option but it is nice to be nice.

Felt the journey home which is unusual after a winning day.  Needed to make two stops to clear the head and when I saw Athlone, decided it was a trip to Taughmaconnell and Sinead spoiled me with coffee and sandwiches.  Am blessed must say.

Thankfully, my recordings are OK we rescued everything that was fearing lost yesterday.  Would have broken my heart as there’s a lot of stuff – especially from the Sarsfields and Athenry camps ahead of Sunday’s big games.

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialCamogieAssociation/photos/gm.540245256362476/10155497128416492/?type=3&theater

 

Speaking of which, and this will be a diary exclusive because it’s not being announced until tomorrow but Galway Bay FM are going to be doing a preview show on Friday night ahead of the All-Ireland finals.  Have to go organise guests tomorrow so if you’re from either club, prepare for a phone call 🙂.

Going to be a crazy week as I look set to head to Mullingar on Thursday for Presentation Tuam’s All-Ireland Schools Ladies Football Semi-Final.  And possibly a christening on Saturday providing I’m off.  Sports reporting can be a hindrance to weekend activities but it usually works out well.

Now, this ‘Beast From The East’ could scupper everyone’s plans and from Wednesday, we’ll be following Met Eireann meticulously again to see if a RED alert will have us grounded.  Everyone’s dropping it into sentences.  Even John Millane mentioned it twice yesterday during the Kilkenny/Tipperary game.

I thought it was a WWE wrestling preview.  It has the potential to be bad (and annoying).  Obviously, we all hope it doesn’t.  Like, it is March come Thursday.  But I’d hate for it to interfere with the camogie on Sunday.  Preparing for an All-Ireland Final is a massive event and postponements can easily knock teams.

https://www.facebook.com/jeffrey.cambridge/posts/10155237168819149

 

But with all that rambling, or chatting, it never even crossed my mind about having a cigarette today.  I couldn’t even say I had a half decent craving even if I did take one gum earlier today.  We won’t get carried away but it’s the first day where the thought of smoking was never really contemplated.

Of course, the body is making sounds concerning its new status.  That’s to be expected and there’ll be a few more testing days.  But on a Monday (a computer day) and even with my tiredness or occasional lack of focus, a 20 pack hasn’t been banging on the door telling me it’s offering deals that clean air can’t.

I’m starting to feel like a non-smoker but keep it a secret for the time being.

Now, I’ve dinner on and then see where my mood takes me for the night.  Going to be a busy Tuesday if I rest up tonight.  But then again, a good night’s rest could be the perfect solution.

When I wake up in the morning, I’ll be officially one week off the cigarettes.  And that’s sweet!  If anyone is humming about quitting, DO!  Just find an outlet to express yourself and it gets easier.  This diary has been mine and the messages have made me stronger.

Delighted so far but it feels like just the first game of the league, haven’t won any trophies yet.  Chat tomorrow.

Darren

GALWAY GAA: (Reaction) – MICHAEL FINN (Presentation College, Athenry)

By
Darren Kelly
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(Photo – Galway GAA)

Presentation College, Athenry were crowned Connacht Post Primary Schools Senior A Champions on Saturday after two dominant spells either side of half-time allowed them run out 2-19 to 1-8 winners over Gort Community School. 

(Match Report)

Adam Brett struck the two goals and Mark Kennedy chipped in with six points from play as the Athenry school won their fourth provincial title in five years.

Gort will now face St. Kieran’s College, Kilkenny in the All-Ireland quarter-final next Saturday (3rd March).  Athenry are into the semi-finals and will face CBS Midleton or Kilkenny CBS on Monday, 19th March.

After their victory, we spoke to a member of the Presentation Athenry management team Michael Finn.  Michael guided the school to victory along with Eddie Brady and Padraig Breheny.

“They played really well,” said Finn afterwards.  “(We’re) very happy with that.  They’ve trained well all winter and have really pushed on.  They were very disappointed themselves about last year, losing.  And that’s really what has driven them on all year.

“They’ve been a very easy bunch to train and to work with.  It’s their own work really that has got them this far.  You’d be looking forward now to the next stage of it.

“They’ve played really well in both games.  We’d be happy enough with them.  But they’ve put the work in.  They’ve put in a huge amount of work over the last couple of months.  Not just with us, you’d have to give credit to the clubs they’re coming from too.

“Something I’ve noticed really that the clubs that are feeding into us are putting in a huge amount of work at that age level.

“Everything we try and do is built on a very solid defence.  Very similar to the last day, we were slow to start against St. Brigid’s and got going then just before half-time and pulled away in the second half.  Today was very similar.

“(We) wouldn’t be happy with the way we started the game.  We were just a bit slow out of the blocks.  But 10 minutes before half-time, we opened up a bit of a gap and we were able sustain that to the finish.”

Hear the full interview BELOW

GALWAY GAA: (Reaction) – MARK KENNEDY (Presentation College, Athenry)

By
Darren Kelly
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Presentation College, Athenry were crowned Connacht Post Primary Schools Senior A Champions on Saturday after two dominant spells either side of half-time allowed them run out 2-19 to 1-8 winners over Gort Community School.

(Match Report)

Adam Brett struck the two goals and Mark Kennedy chipped in with six points from play as the Athenry school won their fourth provincial title in five years.

https://twitter.com/buff_egan/status/967527368532398080

Gort will now face St. Kieran’s College, Kilkenny in the All-Ireland quarter-final next Saturday (3rd March).  Athenry are into the semi-finals and will face CBS Midleton or Kilkenny CBS on Monday, 19th March.

After their victory, we spoke to Presentation Athenry Man of the Match Mark Kennedy.

“It was a great game especially in the first half,” said Kennedy.  “They had a sweeper back (when) we were with the breeze.  So, they were trying to pull it back a bit.  We’re just delighted to get the win.

“We knew coming out they were going to hit us with everything.  The lads played them (through) underage and they were always very physically strong.  And we just knew if we could get a good start, it would set us on a good way for the second half.”

“It just came to me and took a shot,” he added when asked about Oisin Higgins’ saving his first half goal chance.  “It was a poor enough finish but it was good save from him.  He set up well.

“Every game, we’re trying to take it one game at a time.  And it’ll be no different now the next day whoever we’re playing.  We’ll probably be the underdogs so we’ll go out and give it a good rattle anyways.

“It was great to see lads like Brandon (Lee) and Tom (Quirke) coming on there at the end.  As Mike (Finn) says throughout the year, it’s a panel effort and everyone’s pushing together trying to get one thing.  And that’s to hopefully compete in the All-Ireland series.”

Hear the full interview BELOW

Contractor confirmed for Chidren’s playground at Corrandulla

By
Michael Malone
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galway daily playground

The appointment of a contractor to the construction of the new children’s playground at Corrandulla, County Galway has been confirmed.

Chair of Annaghdown/Corrandulla Playground Committee Cllr. James Charity announced the confirmation today, thanking the companies who submitted a tender.

“I am delighted to announce that following a competitive tender campaign and a thorough review and selection process by the Committee, Kompan have been chosen as the successful tenderer. It is expected that construction works will begin on site within the next 5-6 weeks and the project will be completed in a further 5 weeks thereafter,” he said.

“I want to thank all companies who submitted a tender and can confirm the quality of all submissions was second to none. We are delighted to now be moving forward with our contractor and seeing this project through to completion so that all the families and children of the area have a new, contemporary and safe place to play.

“Following on from the amazing success of our fundraising event in the Clayton Hotel on the 16th February last, I also want to thank all of our sponsors, raffle and auction contributors who gave so generously and, of course, the local community who supported the event and turned out in numbers on the night, as well as the participants in Blind Date and our MC Ronan Lardner who collectively made it such a memorable occasion for everyone in attendance.

“I also wish to express a special word of thanks to all of our very hardworking committee who made the fundraising night such a seemeless and professional operation and who have stayed the course now over 3 years to get us to this point,” Cllr Charity added.

GALWAY GAA: (Reaction) – CONOR WALSH (Presentation College, Athenry)

By
Darren Kelly
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0

Presentation College, Athenry were crowned Connacht Post Primary Schools Senior A Champions on Saturday after two dominant spells either side of half-time allowed them run out 2-19 to 1-8 winners over Gort Community School.

(Match Report)

Adam Brett struck the two goals and Mark Kennedy chipped in with six points from play as the Athenry school won their fourth provincial title in five years.

Gort will now face St. Kieran’s College, Kilkenny in the All-Ireland quarter-final next Saturday (3rd March).  Athenry are into the semi-finals and will face CBS Midleton or Kilkenny CBS on Monday, 19th March.

After their victory, we spoke to Presentation Athenry captain Conor Walsh.

“I suppose Connacht Finals are always going to be tough,” said Walsh.  “We were under no illusions today that needed to bring a strong performance.  I know we did for large stages but there’s so much to work on there.

“Gort are an exceptional team.  They’re a young team and I’ve no doubt they’re going to be hugely competitive over the next few years.  Connacht finals, they’re not easily got so thankfully we got over the line today.

“We got the rub of the green today and that was huge.  A lot of our boys did the right thing.  And luckily enough, we got the breaks today.  The ball could have bounced Gort’s way today and things could have been a lot different.  Gort and ourselves now have the honour of going on and representing Galway.  So, we’re going to go on and try and give it a lash the both of us.

“We’ll definitely enjoy this.  They don’t come along often.  And after losing last year, we had extra bit of belief I suppose and just to drive it on this year.  It’ll be back to work over the next week or so and back to basics.  And trying to get ourselves right to be competitive in the next game is key for us.  And hopefully we can do that.

Hear the full interview BELOW

GALWAY GAA: (Reaction) – MICHAEL FALLON (Portumna Community School)

By
Darren Kelly
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0

Portumna Community School were crowned Connacht Post Primary Schools Senior B Hurling Champions last Saturday as they beat Calasanctius College, Oranmore 6-9 to 2-9 in Duggan Park, Ballinasloe.

(Match Report)

Two John Fleming goals along with further strikes for Liam Quirke, Denis McLoughlin, Oisin Sullivan and Jack Kelly helped them to a comfortable victory and they’ll face the Leinster champions on March 10th in the All-Ireland semi-final.

Michael Fallon, along with Tom Quinn and Ruairi O Tuairisg, were Portumna management team and Michael spoke to us after the final whistle.

“We’re really delighted now to have finished off the job,” said Fallon.  “We put in a lot of work all year and it’s great that it worked out well for us today.

“We put in some really good performances in the ‘A’ championship and we were very unlucky not to have made the semi-final.  But we did bring that form into this competition so we are very happy.

“It really would have been (the target).  We used the ‘A’ to really test ourselves.  It wouldn’t be a realistic option for us to get that ‘A’ championship title.  But this was our main goal.  We came close and just didn’t perform in the final when it came to it.  So, we were delighted that we could perform today and to get back here to do it.

“‘We’ve been scoring quite fluidity all year.  Between the ‘A’ and the ‘B’ championship so far, we’ve scored 19 goals and over 70 points coming into today.  So, that’s something we’ve been targeting on all year to just really challenge teams.”

Hear the full interview BELOW

4% drop in child mental health service staff in West is “a disgrace”

By
Michael Malone
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mental health galway daily

A Galway City councillor has said that it is “a disgrace” that child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) in the west of Ireland have barely half the necessary staff despite the issue being raised with Minister Harris last June.

Sinn Féin Councillor Cllr Mairéad Farrell said that Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on Health raised the issue with the Minister, when at that time CAMHS teams had just over half of the staff needed.

Speaking this morning, Cllr Farrell said: “Last June our Dáil spokesperson on Health Louise O’Reilly TD submitted a number of Parliamentary Questions to the Minister for Health given worrying developments regarding bed closures at child and adolescent mental health centres.

“The responses we got from the Minister at the time showed that CAMHS teams in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon were operating with just 57% of the staff necessary under a ‘A Vision for Change’, the strategy document which sets out the direction for Mental Health Services in Ireland.

“A lot of talk followed about addressing these shortfalls, especially after the Seanad Public Consultation Committee Report on Children’s Mental Health Services found that the increase in mental health problems and in child population but that it had not been matched by an increase in services.”

The Galway West election candidate for Sinn Féin said that it was ‘shocking’ to learn that by December 2017 the HSE responded to a Parliamentary Question outlining how the levels for CAMHS in the west of Ireland has not only failed to increase, but actually fell by 4%.

This means that the services now have only 53% of the total staff needed.

“Only a number of days ago the Children’s Rights Alliance revealed that nearly 7,000 children under the age of 17 were waiting for a community based psychology appointment at the end of last July — with one third of those waiting for more than a year.

“It is impossible for these children to get the help they need when “A Vision for Change” recommends that youth mental health services in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon be fully staffed at 99 whole time equivalent staff, yet as of December CAMHS teams had just 52 whole time equivalent doctors and nurses.

“That this is happening at a time when we are more aware than ever of the complexities and difficulties for people, particularly the young, who suffer with their mental health further compounds this state of affairs,” added Cllr Farrell.

GALWAY GAA: (Reaction) – JOHN FLEMING (Portumna Community School)

By
Darren Kelly
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0

Portumna Community School were crowned Connacht Post Primary Schools Senior B Hurling Champions last Saturday as they beat Calasanctius College, Oranmore 6-9 to 2-9 in Duggan Park, Ballinasloe.

(Match Report)

Two John Fleming goals along with further strikes for Liam Quirke, Denis McLoughlin, Oisin Sullivan and Jack Kelly helped them to a comfortable victory and they’ll face the Leinster champions on March 10th in the All-Ireland semi-final.

Meelick/Eyrecourt’s John Fleming was the Man of the Match after hitting 2-6 over the hour including crucial goals in both halves.  The centre forward chatted to us after the final whistle.

“They are,” said Fleming when asked about the importance of the goals.  “It’s the whole team that put in a savage effort.  The lads have been training since the start of the year and they just backed themselves.  They were unlucky with the ‘A’ championship but they proved themselves today and they got what they deserved.”

“The boys, they are fairly confident.  They know they’re a good side and they’re well able back themselves as I said already.”

“It was great to get off to a great start.  It would give you a lot of confidence and the game went grand after that.”

“As far as we were concerned, it was another nil-nil.  Going out in the second half again, it was a draw again (as far as) we were concerned.  And we just said we’d push on and make sure we’d get the victory.”

“We kept pushing on and pushing on.  We knew from last years’ experience that if we took or foot off the pedal or whatever, it could come back to hit us.  And we know from last year, we got beaten last year.  So, we just said we’d shoving on and pushing on.”

Hear the full interview BELOW

GALWAY GAA: (Reaction) – DAVID JORDAN (Portumna Community School)

By
Darren Kelly
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0

Portumna Community School were crowned Connacht Post Primary Schools Senior B Hurling Champions last Saturday as they beat Calasanctius College, Oranmore 6-9 to 2-9 in Duggan Park, Ballinasloe.

(Match Report)

Two John Fleming goals along with further strikes for Liam Quirke, Denis McLoughlin, Oisin Sullivan and Jack Kelly helped them to a comfortable victory and they’ll face the Leinster champions on March 10th in the All-Ireland semi-final.

Tynagh/Abbey-Duniry’s David Jordan was the winning captain and the wing back spoke to us after the game.

“It’s a great feeling,” said Jordan.  “The lads just put in a serious effort from the start and they never gave up.  And we kept ticking on the scores.  To be fair to Oranmore, they pulled it back there for a while at the end.  But we kept in the game.

“The backs worked tirelessly getting in hooks and blocks and they made sure there was no goals scored today.  And thankfully, they worked very hard.  And the forwards as well, (they) got a lot of scores as well.

“You can always trust the lads up front.  John (Fleming), he’s well able to take on a few scores and the lads inside as well.  When you hit the ball into them, they’ll convert.

“Ah we will I’d say.  We’ll give a good go at it anyways.”

Hear the full interview BELOW

AIRTRICITY LEAGUE: (Reaction) – GALWAY UNITED 4-1 ATHLONE TOWN 

By
Darren Kelly
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0

Galway United began life in the First Division on Friday night with a comfortable victory over Athlone Town in Eamonn Deacy Park. 

Danny Furlong marked his debut with a hat-trick and Ronan Manning scored his first goal for the club before ex-Real Madrid player Felix Perez got a late consolation for the visitors.

After the Athlone defence failed to clear on 14 minutes, Furlong took advantage finding the bottom corner for the first goal.  And 20 minutes later, the ex-Wexford Youths striker found space following Marc Ludden’s cross to make it 2-0.

Another Ludden delivery meant for Furlong saw Manning hit the top corner after Bashmil Nyakambili’s clearance didn’t materialise.  But Furlong did leave with the match ball finishing Gary Shanahan’s assist for the hat-trick nine minutes from time.

“Some of our passing and first touches were very sloppy,” said manager Shane Keegan to Galway United’s official website.  “It wasn’t anywhere near sharp enough.

“Danny (Furlong) was extremely clinical. My get out of jail card was we looked like a team that hadn’t done a whole lot together and that’s because we are a team that hasn’t. We need to get better, fast.”

“That’s Danny’s game. He’s got good technique, he’ll give you a bit outside the 18-yard-box but I wouldn’t say he’s a standout player outside the box.”

“It’s three goals on your debut,” added Furlong.  “I suppose it doesn’t really come much better than that and more importantly, three points.

“Anything in and around the 18-yard-box, I tend to latch onto. I probably could have had one or two more chances or half-chances even, but I’m happy enough with the chances that I did get and put away.”

GALWAY UNITED 4 (Danny Furlong 14, 34, 81′, Ronan Manning 60′)

ATHLONE TOWN 1 (Felix Perez 93′)

Galway United: Tadhg Ryan; Marc Ludden, Robbie Williams, Stephen Walsh, Gary Shanahan; Alex Byrne, Stephen Kenny, Ryan Connolly, Ronan Manning; Danny Furlong, Eoin McCormack.  Subs used: Carlton Ubaezuna for McCormack (61 mins), Conor Barry for Byrne (70 mins), Maurice Nugent for Kenny (70 mins).

Athlone Town: Nathan Murphy; Aaron Brilly, Felix Perez, Gerard Smith, Bashmil Nyakambili; Steven Grogan, Brian Cabraley, Shane Stokes, Martin Walsh; Craig Short, Thaigh Keogh.  Subs used: George Mukete for Grogan (HT), Etanda Nkololo for Keogh (HT), Josh Hogan for Cabraley (66 mins).

Referee: David Keeler

GALWAY GAA: (Reaction) – GALWAY 1-20 DUBLIN 1-14 

By
Darren Kelly
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0

Even if laboured at times, Galway have overcome their first four hurdles and now face Limerick in Pearse Stadium next Sunday (March 4th) for promotion to Division 1A next year. 

In Parnell Park on Sunday, the Tribesmen always kept control of the scoreboard with Jason Flynn delivering a quality performance.

The Tommy Larkins player was a late addition to the starting team but finished with 1-9, including 1-3 from play, as Galway secured their fourth win from as many outings.

Flynn split the posts four times at the start as Galway raced into a 0-9 to 0-2 lead.  And after holding a 0-13 to 1-5 interval advantage, Flynn struck the crucial goal on 53 minutes when  taking possession from a long delivery before hitting the net.

However, Dublin (whose first half goal came from Danny Sutcliffe) rallied until the closing stages as Liam Rushe’s penalty was saved by James Skehill.  And Galway’s margin was only three points before late tallies for Flynn, Brian Concannon, Cathal Mannion and Niall Burke ensure the result.

“I wouldn’t say we were playing within ourselves,” said Galway manager Micheal Donoghue after to the assembled media afterwards.  “That’s just where we are at the minute.”

“They’ve (the Galway players) been burning it up in fairness to them, putting up big scores so it’s (Limerick) going to be a big challenge for us.”

Both Galway and Limerick are through to the league quarter-finals but the winners of their clash will be promoted.

Galway: James Skehill; Adrian Tuohy, John Hanbury, Jack Grealish; Shane Cooney, Gearoid McInerney, Padraic Mannion (0-2); Johnny Coen, Sean Loftus (0-2); Conor Cooney, Cathal Mannion (0-4), Niall Burke (0-2); Conor Whelan, Jason Flynn (1-9, six frees), Brian Concannon (0-1).  Subs used: Eanna Burke for Lofus (45 mins), Davy Glennon for Cooney (59 mins).

Dublin: Alan Nolan; Paddy Smyth, Bill O’Carroll, Eoghan O’Donnell; Darren Kelly, Chris Crummey, Shane Barrett; Tomas Connolly (0-1), Fiontan MacGibb (0-1); Paul Crummey, Conal Keaney, Danny Sutcliffe (1-1); Paul Winters (0-9, eight frees, one ’65), Ryan O’Dwyer, Ronan Hayes (0-1).  Subs used: Liam Rushe for O’Dwyer (42 mins), Fionn O Riain Broin for P. Crummey (47 mins), Cian Boland (0-1) for Keaney (60 mins), James Madden for Kelly (63 mins), Paul Ryan for Rushe (68 mins).

Referee: John Keenan (Wicklow)

GALWAY GAA: (Reaction) – GALWAY 1-14 KERRY 0-14 

By
Darren Kelly
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0

Galway picked up their first win over Kerry since 2003 on Sunday in Austin Stack Park, Tralee to pick up their fourth consecutive win in Division One of the National Football League stayed on par with leaders Dublin. 

Eamonn Brannigan’s 40th minute goal gave the Tribesmen a six-point advantage they held until the end and now makes an unlikely league final appearance a probability for the newly promoted side.

Should Galway beat Monaghan in Pearse Stadium next Sunday (4th March), they will be four points clear of third place with just two games remaining.  From relegation favourites to potential league finalists, Galway’s transition is looking very good.

“There was a bit of pressure on today,” said manager Kevin Walsh to the assemble media afterwards.  “A lot of people, including ourselves, were looking for a bit more consistency. We felt we had, maybe, improved on that last year, getting out of Division Two. We had to improve on that again. We’ll take this result.

“There was a double save there at the end by Ruairi Lavelle. That kept the win for us.  We’d be disappointed if we lost because of the chances we had before that.

“We would have put a bit of effort in to the fitness side of it, to date.

“The FBD league final came at a good time for us. A lot of our guys who were itching to get off the bench got off it and performed quite well. They are starting to fight for positions. You have to have a certain fitness standard at this time of year. Time will tell. It would have been our objective to stay up.”

Galway: Ruairi Lavelle; Declan Kyne, Sean Andy O Ceallaigh, Eoghan Kerin; Cathal Sweeney, Gareth Bradshaw, Johnny Heaney; Paul Conroy, Peter Cooke; Sean Kelly, Shane Walsh (0-1, free), Eamonn Brannigan (1-3); Patrick Sweeney (0-1), Damien Comer, Barry McHugh (0-9, five frees, two ’45s).  Subs used: Gary O’Donnell for C. Sweeney (8 mins, BC), Sean Armstrong for P. Sweeney (49 mins), David Wynne for O Ceallaigh (57 mins, BC), Johnny Duane for Heaney (57 mins, BC), Ciaran Duggan for Cooke (64 mins), Thomas Flynn for Brannigan (70 mins).

Kerry: Brian Kelly; Shane Enright, Jason Foley, Ronan Shanahan; Paul Murphy (0-1), Peter Crowley (0-1), Brian Ó Beaglaoich; Jack Barry, Barry O’Sullivan; Micheál Burns, Sean O’Shea (0-3, two frees), Stephen O’Brien (0-1); David Clifford (0-6, three frees), Paul Geaney, Barry John Keane.  Subs used: Matthew Flaherty for Shanahan (41 mins), Tom O’Sullivan (0-1) for O Beaglaoich (42 mins), Éanna Ó Conchúir for Keane (48 mins), Daithi Casey (0-1) for Burns (60 mins), Killian Spillane for Geaney (67 mins), Brian Ó Seanacháin for O’Sullivan (70 mins).

Referee: Fergal Kelly (Longford)

Bus Urraithe ag Lidl do Scoláirí OE Gaillimh

By
Sheila Ní Bheaglaoich
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0

Tá tógra nua ar bun, ag tosú tráthnónna inniu bainteach le Comhaltas na Mac Léinn, OE Gaillimh, do scoláirí atá ag maireachtaint i gcóiríocht do mhic léinn atá beagáinín iargúlta.

Beidh bus saor in aisce ag fágail Baile na Coiribe (Corrib Village) ag a 6.00 i:n ag dul go Lidl do mhic léinn atá ag iarraidh a gcuid siopadóireacht seachtainiúl a dhéanamh.

Deir Uachtarán Comhaltas na Mac Léinn, Lorcán Ó Maoileannaigh gur tháinig an smaoineamh seo i dtír ón forógra a bhí aige an bhliain seo chaite.

Chuir Ó Maoileannaigh, plean le chéile le haghaidh béilí mórcalraí, calraí íseal agus do glasraitheoirí.

“An smaoineamh a bhí ann ná go bhféadfá do chuid bidh a órdú ó suíomh idirlín Comhaltas na Mac Léinn agus ansin bheadh sé tugtha chughat, ” a deir sé.

“Dheineamar é seo a thriail le Tesco an téarma seo chaite ach bhí sé do dhéanta agus mar sin bhíomar ag smaoineamh cad é an chéad céim eile?”

“Tá an plean dos na béile, mar aon leis an liosta siopadóireacht agus chuile rud eile déanta again agus ansin cheapamar go mbeadh no scoláirí atá iargúlta go maith sásta le seirbhís mar seo.”

Bhí Comhaltas na Mac Léinn agus Lorcán Ó Maoileannaigh gnóthach leis an bplean nuair a dúirt Lidl go mbeidís sásta bus a chur ó Baile na Coiribe chuig cheann dá siopaí.

Beidh an mbus ag fágáint Baile na Coiribe chuile Luan ag a 6 a chlog agus beidh uair a chloig ag na mic léinn istigh i Lidl chun an siopadóireacht a dhéanamh. Tabhairfidh an mbus díreach thar nais go Baile na Coiribe iad ansin.

“Sé an smaoineamh a bhí againn leis an mbus a rith ar an Luan ná go hiondúil déantar an siopadóireacht seachtainúil ar an Luan, agus ag braith ar cé chomh rathúil a bheidh sin tá seans go rithfeadh a thuilleadh busanna ar an Luan,” dúirt Lorcán.

Beidh liosta siopadóireacht á thabhairt amach ar an mbus, agus is féidir na scoláirí dul go suíomh idirlín Comhaltas na Mac Léinn le haghaidh oidis don bia ar fad.

Smaoineamh iontach go háirithe dos na scoláirí nach bhfuil gar do siopa grócéir, nó nach bhfuil gluaisteáin acu féin.

Guimís gach rath ar an tógra seo.

 

 

Tuesday – Meditation and breathwork session

By
Kate Robinson
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meditation and breathwork

Meditation and breathwork session
Tuesday, February 27 @ 6-6:30pm, An Taibhdhearc
€5 per session or €20 for five

“The act of meditation is being spacious.” – Sogyal Rinpoche

Feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed?
This Meditation and Breathwork class is for you.
Through meditation and prānāyāma practices you will work with your breath in a way that will allow you to become calmer and more grounded, and not get lost in your own head and train of thoughts.
This practice will help ground you here and now, and help you to be spacious.

Drop in or message to book.

Please bring a blanket, cushion or a yoga mat to sit on, and dress comfortably, so you would be able to sit on the ground for 30 min. Please arrive 5 min prior to the start time to settle in and find your cushion.

In February only: Meditation + Breathwork class is €5 or 5 class pass €20.

Please message to book:
facebook.com/yogabaiba
baiba.sustere@gmail.com
0879511085

Baiba of Yoga-B, a Galway-based yoga and meditation instructor with a focus on merging breathwork and meditation with āsana to create a relaxing and restoring environment on your mat.

Baiba finished her Yoga Alliance certified 200 hr yoga teacher training in Dharamkot, India, 2016. Since then she has finished a Trauma Sensitive Yoga training and a 10-day Vipassana Meditation residential course.

Tuesday – Sure what else would you be at table quiz

By
Kate Robinson
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Monroes Table Quiz

Sure what else would you be at Table quiz
Tuesday, February 27 @ 7:30pm (but come early!)

The sure what else would you be at Table quiz returns on Tuesday 27th Feb in Monroe’s Live Upstairs.

Galway’s Westend will be donating all proceeds from the night to Rosabel’s Rooms in support of Gary Monroe and his wife Suzanne.

Rosabel’s Rooms provides families with comfort and support through the loss of a child.

The quiz will kick off at 7:30pm, but please arrive early as it will be a very busy evening.

Finger food, great prizes and MC Dazza will be on question duty!

Prizes will include:
4 tickets to any Big Top gig for the Galway International Arts Festival from Roisin Dubh
Dinner for two and B&B in Intercontinental Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin
6-course tasting menu for two at Aniar
Vouchers for Vintage Pearl Bridal, Gourmet Tart, Urban Grind, John Keoghs, The Blue Note, Oscars, Hooked, Massimos, Rouge, Dela, Kai and Monroe’s Tavern

See you there!

Darren’s Diary – Kicking The Habit (Day 6) – Sunday, 25th February

By
Darren Kelly
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How could I spend €68?  That was a question I pondered all day as I made the three-hour trip to the Sunny South East for an enjoyable game of camogie. 

It was sunny in Wexford today even if it wasn’t necessarily warm but Galway picked up a big win in the Littlewoods National League to book a semi-final appearance against Kilkenny in two weeks.

How could I spend €68?  That was a question I pondered all day as I made the three-hour trip to the Sunny South East for an enjoyable game of camogie.

It was sunny in Wexford today even if it wasn’t necessarily warm but Galway picked up a big win in the Littlewoods National League to book a semi-final appearance against Kilkenny in two weeks.

I was in singing mood all morning (must have been looking forward to the game) and Sinead gave me her Westlife CD for the journey as I was travelling on my own.

Now, some people think I’m a Westlife fan.  I suppose the regular serenations of their greatest hits does give that indication.  But I wouldn’t say I was a fan as such.  But I did like a lot of their songs.

I didn’t realise how many I liked until I was banging out tune after tune on the road so maybe I have been in denial for a few years.  I always admitted Boyzone but yes, I probably am a Westie as well.

It’s these little things you appreciate when you’re trying to keep your mind of bad habits but I definitely was tested approaching Portlaoise which ended up making my trip a much longer affair.

Portlaoise is not the easiest town in the world to drive if you are slightly stressed or distracted.  That’s not being negative about the place.  It’s a well-designed place.  But it has pedestrian crossings popping up out of nowhere and it can be frustrating if you take a wrong turn.

No, I didn’t hit anybody or have an accident.  But I was in a bit of a panic when I got a phone call from the radio telling me the 16 interviews (SIX-TEEN!) I sent over the weekend wouldn’t open.

This is a busy two weeks with the All-Ireland camogie finals next Sunday and I’ve been out and about recording pieces.  Plus, had two Connacht colleges hurling finals yesterday and some clips there as well.  They are all important material and my nerves were stretched when I heard there were problems.

I was feeling great about myself this morning when I was sending them away in bed, thinking I was getting ahead of myself.  But I ended up having to pull in in Portlaoise, download them all to Google Drive, and send again before I got a guarantee they had gone through.

It took me an hour!  My plans to be in Wexford Park for the hurling game shattered.  And that meant that car parking was going to be a major obstacle when I eventually arrived near the pitch around 2.30pm.

Camogie matches after hurling games are often a nuisance.  Not for the on-field activity and it’s disappointing how some spectators leg it out the gate as soon as the lads finish.  A lot of Wexford supporters did stay it must be said but a lot more invaded the pitch after Wexford won the hurling that eventually delayed the camogie throw-in by 10 minutes.

However, back to my story.  After looping around the pitch trying to find anything that resembled a car park, or a curb I could feel safe leaving the vehicle, I eventually worked my way back to the main parking spot that was full from around 1pm.

I even did four laps of the LIDL car park in Wexford hoping a vacant slot opened.  Now, either a lot of people were shopping at that particular time or it’s a handy spot less than 10 minutes’ walk from the park.  I let you guess that one.

After my downloading delay in Portlaoise, my frustration trying to park and the little devil in my head going ‘Ah one won’t do you any harm,’ the boys at Clonlard Church came to my rescue.  Either they felt sorry for me or I shocked them that I was here for the camogie instead of the hurling.  Either way, they let me in and I thank Joe and all his team.

I got into the field for the second half and the Wexford crowd are really behind their hurling team.  You could feel the atmosphere in the main stand as I legged it up to the press box during a break in play.  They will ask questions during 2018 and should not be discounted by anybody.

And those that stayed for the camogie saw an exciting contest.  Galway bounced back from conceding two early goals to pull clear thanks to two Ailish O’Reilly green flags.  But a late Una Leacy goal made it a nervous finish before Galway won 2-16 to 4-8.

It was a big result because Galway needed to win a game like that.  It didn’t go unnoticed by some involved that I predicted Wexford in this week’s preview.  Glad Galway used it for motivation but they had to weather three late goal chances for the hosts.

Kilkenny in the semi-final will be another massive match and Galway should treat this like having nothing to lose.  They can win!  But they need a better performance than the Cork game regardless of the result.

https://twitter.com/STOOP1D/status/967843862134730753

Anyway, I didn’t smoke.  Never intended to.  But the dancing demons haven’t departed yet though I am feeling some pride as a full week nearly approaches.  Gone to be a long trip home as still down in Carlow.  But after a win, and Westlife, won’t feel as long 🙂

Back to my initial question and how would I spend €68?  Well diesel on this trip can be €40/45, dinner and a desert probably €15, a car park usually costs €5 on a match day and bound to be a €3 coffee consumed.  That all comes to €68 I believe.

If I had smoked these last six days, I would have spent €72 for the six packets.  To compensate, I’ve managed to make one Nicorette gum strip last which cost €4.  That means I saved €68!

Quitting cigarettes technically gave me a free trip to Wexford today.  I’m in Dublin next Sunday and I now have more motivation to keep this challenge going 🙂

Darren

GALWAY CAMOGIE: (Match Report) – GALWAY 2-16 WEXFORD 4-8

By
Darren Kelly
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0

Littlewoods National Camogie League – Sunday, 25th February

Darren Kelly in Innovate Wexford Park

Galway survived this battle today to book their place in the league semi-final as Wexford pushed for a saving goal in the dying moments.

The Tribeswomen looked home and dry leading 2-15 to 3-8 with three minutes remaining before Una Leacy’s second goal put Wexford back in touch.

And in injury time, the Slaneysiders tested the resolved of Galway’s rearguard as Joanne Dillon was denied on two occasions by Sarah Dervan and Caitriona Daly, Stacey Kehoe’s one effort wide and Leacy had the ball in the net only for referee Eamon Cassidy to have already blown for an injured player.

Galway came in as favourites but have always been tested by Wexford and this was no different.  Martin Carey’s team looked to capitalise on defensive errors and reaped the benefits in the opening 10 minutes.

Linda Bolger opened with a 45 before Rebecca Hennelly equalised.  But when Galway didn’t clear their lines on five minutes, Aoife Guiney’s ground stroke found the net and Wexford led 1-1 to 0-1.

However, Galway replied with four scores in three minutes through Caitriona Cormican, Aoife Donohue and Hennelly (2). But they were caught out again in the 10th minute when Leacy took a cross field ball before shaking off Dervan and hand passing to the net.

Emma Walsh put Wexford 2-2 to 0-5 ahead but Hennelly was having a major first half influence and two points from play (including one from 70 yards) reduced arrears the minimum before Bolger and Shelly Kehoe replied.

Again, a Hennelly brace had Galway in touch but when Cormican’s shot was blocked by Dearbhla Doyle on 27 minutes, O’Reilly pounced and got the major and they went in 1-10 to 2-4 ahead following another Hennelly score.

Shelly Kehoe was starting to dominate around the middle and she added two early minors after the restart before Guiney’s run from the left resulted in Wexford’s third goal before Una Sinnott made it 3-7 to 1-11.

Ciara Murphy pointed for Galway but they were back ahead when Niamh Hanniffy shrugged off Shauna Sinnott before finding O’Reilly for the second goal on 40 minutes.

Donohue and Hennelly (2) stretched the Tribeswomen’s advantage to four before Joanne Dillon stopped Wexford’s rot.  But when O’Reilly took Finola Keely’s pass for a 2-15 to 3-8 lead with three minutes remaining, Galway looked to have finally gotten the job done.

But Leacy’s second green flag ensured a nervous end even if Hennelly did split the posts.  Galway survived and got a badly needed test and more lessons to learn before they face Kilkenny in two weeks.

Galway: Catriona Daly; Emma Helebert, Sarah Dervan, Heather Cooney; Roisin Black, Shauna Healy, Lorraine Ryan; Ann Marie Starr, Finola Keely; Aoife Donohue (0-2), Rebecca Hennelly (0-11, eight frees, one ’45), Catriona Cormican (0-1); Ailish O’Reilly (2-1), Niamh Hanniffy, Ciara Murphy (0-1).  Subs used: Leanne Freaney for Murphy (47 mins), Carrie Dolan for Donohue (60 mins).

Wexford: Emma Kiely; Eimear O’Connor, Shauna Sinnott, Dearbhla Doyle; Ciara Storey, Sarah O’Connor, Amy Cardiff; Emma Walsh (0-1), Shelly Kehoe (0-3); Linda Bolger (0-2, one free, one ’45), Jackie Quigley, Una Sinnott (0-1); Joanne Dillon (0-1, free), Una Leacy (2-0), Aoife Guiney (2-0).  Subs used: Stacey Kehoe for Bolger (43 mins), Leah Walsh for Quigley (47 mins).

Referee: Eamon Cassidy (Derry)

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