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Almost €40 million spent on Galway suppliers by Lidl last year

By
Michael Malone
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galway daily news new lidl in knocknacarrra sign

Lidl spent €39 million on goods and services from Galway suppliers and business partners in 2023, according to a new report by the retailer.

The €39 million spent locally is part of a total of €1.6 billion that was procured by Lidl from businesses across Ireland last year.

The report published this week found that a total of €1.1 billion worth of goods was procured from the Irish agri-food industry, with an additional €500 million worth of services provided by local Irish businesses to the retailer last year.

Of the €1.1 billion worth of goods procured from local food and drink suppliers, €800 million stayed within Lidl Ireland’s operations to be sold through its local store network.

Lidl’s key Galway suppliers include Glenamaddy-based Westbake who have supplied Lidl with much of the retailer’s confectionary range to stores in Ireland since 2019.

Commenting on the report, Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Neale Richmond, said that it demonstrates a strong commitment in supporting the growth of Irish businesses, many of whom Lidl have worked with for more than 20 years.

“Since then, Lidl has helped grow many Irish suppliers internationally through export opportunities across the Lidl global store network.

“With €1.6 billion worth of goods and services procured in Ireland by Lidl in 2023 alone, Lidl sets an example for the retail industry by showcasing the importance of strong local partnerships as a driver of economic growth in Ireland.”

Backlogs for apprentices training is “scandalous” says Farrell

By
Michael Malone
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Galway Daily news 17 new Apprenticeship programmes to be developed this year

Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell has said that “scandalous” backlogs for apprentices’ training must be urgently addressed.

There are just under 9,000 apprentices currently waiting for off-the-job training, with nearly 4,000 waiting for more than six months.

Deputy Farrell said that she is regularly contacted by apprentices who are deeply anxious and distressed by these delays, saying that they are left in limbo and feel badly let down by government.

“Apprentices are crucial to the Irish economy and ensuring homes can be built,” said the Sinn Féin TD.

“Failing to support them is yet another sign of the government’s short sighted and chaotic inability to plan for the future and deliver affordable homes. We are in the middle of a housing crisis and government should be doing everything possible to ensure homes can be built.”

She said that several apprentices have told her that they fear they will have no option but to emigrate due to these delays.

“Meanwhile, we have a Higher Education Minister who is asleep at the wheel,” said Deputy Farrell.

“Minister Harris seems intent on focusing on glossy PR launches and re-announcements of existing schemes to get headlines. He should focus less on his own spin and open his eyes to the reality that apprentices are facing.”

A New Frontier: Bitcoin and Commercial Real Estate

By
Thomas O'Brien
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In recent years, Bitcoin has emerged as a disruptive force in the world of finance and investment. As it continues to gain mainstream acceptance, its influence is spreading to various industries, including commercial real estate (CRE). Navigating the complexities of digital currencies in various markets becomes clearer with resources like Immediate Frontier, a reputable source for investment education. In this article, we will explore the intersection of Bitcoin and CRE, examining how this digital currency is reshaping the landscape of property investments.

Bitcoin’s Role in Diversifying Real Estate Portfolios

Investors have long sought ways to diversify their portfolios to mitigate risks. Bitcoin, often referred to as “digital gold,” has emerged as a new asset class that can play a pivotal role in portfolio diversification. While traditionally, investors have relied on stocks, bonds, and real estate, Bitcoin offers a unique opportunity to hedge against traditional market fluctuations.

 

One key advantage of incorporating Bitcoin into a CRE investment strategy is the potential for higher returns. Over the past decade, Bitcoin has demonstrated significant price appreciation, outperforming many traditional assets. Investors looking to bolster the performance of their real estate portfolios are increasingly allocating a portion of their assets to Bitcoin.

Cryptocurrency Adoption in Commercial Real Estate

The adoption of cryptocurrencies in the CRE industry is a gradual but steadily growing trend. Bitcoin’s acceptance in real estate transactions brings several advantages. For instance, it offers increased transaction speed and reduced costs compared to traditional methods. Cryptocurrency transactions can occur 24/7, reducing the time and effort required to close deals.

 

Prominent CRE companies have started embracing Bitcoin as a payment option for property purchases, rental agreements, and even lease payments. This acceptance signifies a shift towards modernizing an industry that has traditionally relied on slow, paperwork-heavy processes.

Tokenization of Real Estate Assets

Tokenization, a process enabled by blockchain technology, is another area where Bitcoin is making inroads in CRE. Tokenization involves converting real estate assets into digital tokens that can be easily traded on blockchain platforms. This innovation offers several benefits, including increased liquidity, fractional ownership, and accessibility to a global pool of investors.

 

Tokenized real estate assets have the potential to democratize investment opportunities, allowing individuals to invest in high-value commercial properties with smaller amounts of capital. However, it is important to consider the legal and regulatory framework for such transactions, which can vary significantly by jurisdiction.

Blockchain and Smart Contracts in Commercial Real Estate

Blockchain technology, which underpins Bitcoin, is revolutionizing the CRE industry. Its decentralized and immutable nature enhances transparency and security in property transactions. Smart contracts, self-executing agreements with predefined rules, further streamline the CRE process by automating tasks such as rent collection, property management, and lease agreements.

 

Real-world applications of blockchain and smart contracts are already gaining traction. These innovations reduce the risk of disputes, fraud, and errors in property transactions, creating a more efficient and trustworthy ecosystem for investors, developers, and tenants alike.

Overcoming Challenges and Risks

Despite its potential, Bitcoin’s volatility remains a concern in CRE investment. The cryptocurrency market is known for its price fluctuations, which can introduce uncertainty into real estate portfolios. Investors must carefully consider risk management strategies to mitigate these fluctuations, such as diversifying their cryptocurrency holdings and setting clear investment goals.

 

Regulatory challenges are another hurdle to navigate. Different regions have varying levels of cryptocurrency regulation, and the regulatory landscape is still evolving. Staying informed and seeking legal counsel are crucial steps for investors looking to incorporate Bitcoin into their CRE portfolios.

 

Security and privacy considerations are paramount when conducting Bitcoin-based CRE transactions. Implementing robust security measures and safeguarding private keys is essential to protect digital assets and personal information.

The Future of Bitcoin and Commercial Real Estate

The integration of Bitcoin in CRE is an evolving trend, and its future holds significant potential. Predictions suggest that the use of Bitcoin and blockchain technology will become more commonplace in real estate transactions. Innovations like fractional ownership, crowdfunding, and decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms may reshape how investors access and participate in the CRE market.

 

This new frontier offers the promise of greater accessibility, transparency, and efficiency in the CRE industry. While challenges and uncertainties persist, the transformative potential of Bitcoin in commercial real estate cannot be underestimated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bitcoin is ushering in a new era for commercial real estate investments. Its role in diversifying portfolios, the adoption of cryptocurrencies in CRE transactions, the emergence of tokenization and blockchain technology, and the ongoing efforts to address challenges and risks all contribute to the exciting prospects of this intersection. As the digital economy continues to evolve, investors and industry stakeholders must remain vigilant, adapt to change, and seize the opportunities presented by Bitcoin’s integration into commercial real estate. The synergy between these two worlds is reshaping the future of property investments, offering a glimpse of the possibilities yet to be realized in this exciting journey.

Community-Driven Projects: A Look at New Cryptocurrency Initiatives

By
Thomas O'Brien
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The cryptocurrency landscape has evolved significantly since the emergence of Bitcoin in 2009. Today, it’s not just about digital coins; it’s about community-driven projects that are shaping the future of finance and technology. As you navigate through the complexities of these projects, https://quantum-zenx.com emerges as a valuable resource to enhance your understanding of this evolving sector. In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of community-driven cryptocurrency initiatives, delving deep into their significance, characteristics, challenges, and prospects.

The Power of Community in Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrencies have always been driven by communities. The decentralized nature of blockchain technology relies on a distributed network of users who validate transactions and make decisions collectively. This communal approach ensures trust and transparency, two pillars of the crypto world.

 

Historically, Bitcoin itself is a prime example of how a passionate community can drive the adoption and development of a cryptocurrency. Satoshi Nakamoto’s whitepaper laid the foundation, but it was the global community of miners, developers, and enthusiasts that made it a success.

Emergence of New Cryptocurrency Initiatives

The cryptocurrency landscape is marked by its dynamic and ever-evolving nature, characterized by the continuous introduction of new projects. According to data from CoinMarketCap, there are currently thousands of cryptocurrencies in circulation, each tailored to fulfill specific purposes and backed by their respective communities. This rich diversity reflects the growing excitement and sustained innovation within the cryptocurrency sector, which remains at the forefront of financial technology advancement, consistently challenging conventional norms and expanding its horizons. As new cryptocurrencies and blockchain-based solutions emerge, the industry continues to redefine the way we perceive and interact with traditional financial systems, presenting exciting opportunities and possibilities for both investors and enthusiasts alike.

Characteristics of Community-Driven Cryptocurrency Projects

Community-driven cryptocurrency initiatives share several defining characteristics:

 

Decentralized Governance: Unlike traditional financial systems, decisions in these projects are made by a distributed network of participants, often through consensus mechanisms like proof-of-stake or delegated proof-of-stake.

 

Transparency: Community-driven projects prioritize transparency, with all transactions and code open for scrutiny. This helps build trust and ensures that the project’s intentions are clear.

 

Inclusivity: These projects often encourage broader participation, welcoming developers, miners, and enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. Inclusivity strengthens the ecosystem.

Case Studies: Notable Community-Driven Cryptocurrency Initiatives

Let’s take a closer look at a few notable community-driven cryptocurrency initiatives:

 

Cardano: Cardano, often touted as a third-generation blockchain, boasts a robust community of developers and users. Its commitment to research, peer-reviewed academic papers, and decentralized governance makes it a standout example.

 

Polkadot: Polkadot’s goal is to enable interoperability between different blockchains. Its community-driven approach is evident in its parachain auctions and community governance, where stakeholders have a say in the network’s development.

 

Solana: Solana’s rapid rise is attributed in part to its strong community support. Its focus on scalability and high-speed transactions has garnered significant attention from developers.

Challenges and Risks

Community-driven projects bring several benefits, such as diverse perspectives and shared expertise. However, they encounter their fair share of challenges as well. Security remains a paramount concern, necessitating robust measures to protect against vulnerabilities and threats. Scalability is another issue to tackle, as projects grow in complexity and size. Effective coordination within the community becomes crucial to ensure smooth collaboration and decision-making. The consensus-driven nature of these projects, while fostering inclusivity, can sometimes lead to slower development and decision-making processes, highlighting the need for efficient governance mechanisms.

The Future of Community-Driven Cryptocurrency Initiatives

Community-driven cryptocurrency initiatives hold a promising outlook for the future, poised to sustain their role as catalysts for innovation in blockchain technology. This ongoing drive is anticipated to result in the development of increasingly efficient and inclusive financial systems. Furthermore, as decentralized applications (DApps) continue to gain popularity, these community-led projects are expected to assume a crucial position in shaping the evolving digital ecosystem, fostering greater decentralization and accessibility in the world of cryptocurrencies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, community-driven cryptocurrency projects signify a notable advancement within the realms of finance and technology. These initiatives, characterized by their decentralized decision-making processes, transparent operations, and commitment to inclusivity, hold immense potential to drive transformative shifts in the financial landscape. While they may encounter obstacles on their journey, they also present substantial prospects for fostering a future of finance that is both decentralized and accessible to a broader spectrum of individuals.

Green light for expansion of Tesco supermarket in Oranmore

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news Planning approval granted for Oranmore Tesco expansion

Galway County Council has given the green light for an expansion of Tesco supermarket in Oranmore.

Tesco currently operates a supermarket at Unit 1, An Tancaire, Oranmore with a gross floor space of 4,428 sqm.

The business has been given approval by the council to amalgamate Unit No. 3 (195 sqm) and Unit No. 4 (164 sqm) into this to make a single premises with a floor space of 4,797 sqm.

A cover letter for the application stated that the two units in question are currently vacant, and that this will bring them back into use.

The supermarket chain will, “activate these units by further expanding the range and offer available from the Tesco foodstore.”

“It is considered that the proposal, which represents a relatively minor increase to the gross floor area of the Tesco foodstore, will support the enhancement of the offer available to existing customers.”

Other works would involve the addition of new signage on the eastern and southern elevations of the shopping complex, and replacing a door with windows.

Planning permission for the expansion was granted by Galway County Council with three standard conditions attached.

Minister O’Gorman to address Galway event on upcoming referendums

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway daily news

Minister for Equality Roderic O’Gorman will address a public event in Galway City on the upcoming referendums next week.

The event – The Constitutional Referendums on 8th March 2024: A Discussion with Minister Roderic O’Gorman, will take place next Tuesday, February 20.

Two referendums are going to be held next month concerning language in the constitution on women and the family.

The first referendum concerns the concept of family in the Constitution, and if passed would broaden the definition of family beyond marriage.

The second Referendum proposes to delete an existing part of the Constitution and insert new text providing recognition for care provided by family members to each other, and to remove the reference to duties in the home of a mother.

Dr Brian Tobin, School of Law, will provide a critical response to the Minister’s address and an audience Q&A will also take place.

Speaking ahead of the event, Dr Tobin said, “I am delighted that Minister O’Gorman can join us at University of Galway to take part in this informative and insightful event for our students, staff and the public.”

“Minister O’Gorman will emphasise the importance of the referendum proposals to attendees, but they will also be exposed to my own critique of the proposals.”

After the two speakers, attendees will get to engage with the minister in an audience Q&A session.

The event will take place from 7pm to 8:30pm in the IT Building, IT250, on Tuesday, February 20 and is open to the public.

Galway students explore their names in Sloinne

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily television Galway students explore their names in Sloinne

Two current and former Galway students discover the interesting history behind their surnames in Sloinne this month.

This TG4 series delves into the fascinating stories behind Ireland’s most common surnames, bringing history to life in a way that’s accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Sloinne paints a colourful picture of how our local areas and surnames are deeply intertwined.

The rugged landscapes of West Cork, where the O’Sullivans have left their mark, the historic tales of the O’Donnells echoing through the hills of Donegal, and the ancient lineage of the Joyces of Galway.

The sixth episode in the Sloinne series airs on Sunday, February 25, and follows Máirtín Seoighe, Galway native and former NUIG student, as he finds out all about the Seoighe or Joyce surname.

His journey takes him out to Maam, Co.Galway, where he ventures out on the Lough Corrib by boat with Seán Seoighe to visit Castlekirk. Máirtín visits Galway City Museum where Eoin O’Neill explains the history of the Claddagh Ring and tells him of it’s creator, Richard Joyce.

He also visits Galway Courthouse to meet lawyer Seán Ó Cearbhaill, to learn about the shocking death of Myles Joyce and the Maam Trasna Murders and then Nora Barnacle’s house, where Ray Burke (author) discusses with him the influence Nora had on her husband’s (James Joyce) writing.

The episode also features conversations with Paul MacCotter (series genealogist) at University College Galway and with Mary Kenny (author), Liam O’Connor (Director of Folk Music Ireland) and Breda Joyce.

Before that, in this Sunday’s episode of Sloinne, the programme follows Hannah Ní Dhomhnaill, a Donegal student studying at the University of Galway, as she goes on a journey back in time to trace the history of her surname and to find out about others with the same Ó Domhnaill surname.

Hannah’s journey takes her to the beautiful Franciscan Friary (Rossnowlagh) and to Donegal Castle (Donegal Town).

Donegal is well-known for its wealth of musical talent and on her adventure, Hannah meets Finbarr Clancy to discuss the history of ‘O’Donnell Abú’, famously sung by the Clancy Brothers and also singer Maighread Ní Dhomhnaill who tells her all about her famous aunt Neilí Ní Dhomhnaill.

€40 million allocated to Galway County Council for local and regional roads

By
Michael Malone
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Galway East TD Seán Canney has welcomed almost €40 allocated to Galway County Council for the maintenance and improvements to the local and regional roads this year.

The allocation includes €500,000 for the realignment of the Kilbannon road and €1.6 million for the Athenry Inner Relief Road.

Deputy Canney said that both projects need to be progressed as a matter of urgency, as they have been in the planning and design stage for many years.

He said he was disappointed that there is no allocation of funding to kickstart the commencement of the Inner Relief Road in Tuam, and urged the Council to make a submission for funding for this vital project.

“I commend the staff in the Local Area Offices for their efforts in securing this funding and hopefully we will see this money being put to good use across the County,” he said.

Garda appeal after teenage girl reported missing in Tuam

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news Galway girl found safe after almost three weeks missing

Gardaí are appealing to the public for help locating a teenage girl missing from Tuam since last weekend.

Sennora Ward has been missing from Tuam, Co. Galway since Saturday, February 10.

Sennora is described as being 5 feet 9 inches tall, with a slim build, brown hair, and blue eyes.

When last seen she was wearing a beige jumper, blue jeans and white runners. She was also carrying a small white clutch bag.

Sennora may have travelled to Oranmore, Co. Galway in recent days.

Anyone with information regarding Sennora’s whereabouts is asked to contact Tuam Garda Station at 093 70840, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

Funding for Flood Mitigation works at three Galway towns

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news Funding for Flood Mitigation works at three Galway towns

Almost €200,000 in funding has been allocated for flood mitigation works at three towns and villages around Galway.

The Office of Public Works has announced the approval of Galway County Council’s application for funding for works in the vicinity of Ballinasloe, Dunmore, and Gort.

The lion’s share of the funding consists of €135,000 for works at Mountbellew Lake, Ballinasloe which include a consulting engineer’s report that provides a design for the repair of the embankment breach and sluice gate failure.

It will also include measures to address any hydraulic or fish pass barrier issues, and the employment of a contractor to undertake the design works.

Another €34,020 has been allocated for proposed works at Castlefarm, Dunmore to install a new pipe to replace the old stone culvert.

Lastly, €18,000 has been set aside for proposed works at Roo, Tiernevin, Gort which include the upgrade of embankments, the installation of a toe drain, sump and pump, a non-return valve on the foul water line and diverting road run-off.

This funding has been allocated under the Office of Public Works’ Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme.

The purpose of the scheme is to provide funding to Local Authorities to undertake minor flood mitigation works or studies to address localised flooding and coastal protection problems.

Under the scheme, applications are considered for projects that are estimated to cost not more than €750,000 in each instance, with up to 90% funding available from the OPW.

Since its launch in 2009, 246 funding applications by Galway County Council have been supported under this scheme.

New medical pathway for home dialysis introduced at Merlin Park University Hospital

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news New medical pathway for home dialysis introduced at Merlin Park University Hospital

Merlin Park University Hospital has introduced a new pathway offering some dialysis patients an alternative to surgery for the insertion of catheters.

The new option will reduce waiting times and allow more people to avail of treatment at home following the implanting of peritoneal dialysis catheters.

Traditionally these catheters required surgery under general anaesthesia, however, selected patients who meet the criteria will now be offered the procedure as a day case using ultrasound guidance under a local anaesthetic.

The new process will improve patients’ overall experience and allow them to carry out their own treatment at home without having to come to the hospital regularly.

Peritoneal dialysis is a process of removing excess fluid and waste products from the body by running fluids in and out through the peritoneal catheter. It is one of the treatments used for kidney failure.

“This procedure was developed in order to meet the predicted demands for peritoneal dialysis as a home therapy option of choice for our patients,” said Dr Paul O’Hara, Consultant General Physician and Nephrologist and lead Nephrologist delivering this intervention.

“Surgical insertion will still be required for patients who are not candidates for medical insertion, but it will increase the number of patients who can access this service locally.”

He added that will, “give them the option of having the catheter inserted under ultrasound guidance with conscious sedation or local anaesthesia.”

“Peritoneal dialysis for the management of end-stage kidney disease offers improved patient involvement in the management of their care,

Dr O’Hara said that this option for managing end-stage kidney disease offers a, “better patient experience, autonomy and quality of life with treatment schedules that can be adapted to peoples’ lives, reducing the frequency of hospital attendance.”

The Home therapy service will incorporate patients from kidney centres in Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Letterkenny, and it is a key pillar of the home service’s development.

€17 million capital funding for Ros a Mhíl Fishery Harbour in 2024

By
Briain Kelly
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Ros a Mhíl Fishery Harbour Centre will receive €17,410,000 in capital funding in 2024, with the bulk of this being spent on the new Deep Water Quay.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue announced almost €29.7m for capital projects in 2024 at Ireland’s six state-owned Fishery Harbour Centres.

The Deep Water Quay under construction at Ros a Mhíl, which began work in February 2023 and is due to be completed in the first half of 2025, is the single largest recipient of funding with €17m allocated.

The 200m long quay at the Fishery Harbour Centre is being built to accommodate larger fishing vessels at the Connemara port, as well as providing more space overall.

At present Ros an Mhíl Fishery Harbour Centre has 325 metres of quayside but is limited in deep water to a maximum of -5.8 metres chart datum and experiences congestion in busy fishing seasons.

Also in Ros a Mhíl Fishery Harbour Centre, a further €325,000 has been allocated for a new Welfare Building.

A further €35,000 each has been allocated for water metering and CCTV upgrades, and €15,000 will be spent on office improvements.

“The six Fishery Harbour Centres are crucial infrastructure for our seafood industry,” Minister Charlie McConalogue said.

“Approximately 87% of all fish landings into Ireland come through these facilities making them strategic economic hubs for the Seafood industry.”

Minister McConalogue turned the sod on the €30 million Deep Water Quay at Ros a Mhíl Harbour just over a year ago.

“The continuous development of the infrastructure in these Harbours is critical to the fishing fleet and the land-based seafood processing industry.”

“My focus remains on delivering strong sustainable livelihoods for our fishers and food producers who are the bedrock of the sector.”

Galway United apologises for social media post of player with ‘Stop’ sign who caused death by dangerous driving

By
Briain Kelly
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0
Galway United sport Galway United builds up defensive line

Galway United have issued an apology for a social media post of a player holding a stop sign who had previously been convicted of causing a fatal crash.

The post on Galway United’s social media channels for the new League of Ireland season featured player Ed McCarthy holding a ‘Stop’ sign while the song ‘Murder On The Dancefloor’ played over it.

McCarthy had previously received a two year suspended sentence, and was banned from driving for seven years, for dangerous driving causing death.

While a player for Cork City in 2020, McCarthy pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing the death of 55 year old father of two Andrezej Obalek.

Galway United issued a statement on Thursday afternoon apologising for any hurt caused by their social media post, saying that it was not meant to offend.

“Galway United wish to advise that there was no offence intended by a recent social media post issued by the club and would like to unreservedly apologise for any hurt or distress that the post may have caused.”

Water outages in Moycullen due to burst mains

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news Water outages in Moycullen

People living in Moycullen may experience water outages lasting into Thursday evening due to a burst mains pipe in the village.

Uisce Eireann reported a burst water main in Moycullen shortly before 2pm on Thursday afternoon.

This is causing outages and supply disruptions to homes and businesses in the village and surrounding areas.

Repairs are underway and are currently expected to be completed by 3:30pm on Thursday afternoon.

It may take 2 – 3 hours after that point for affected homes to see their full water supply restored as the network refills.

Updates can be found on Irish Water’s supply and service website page.

HSE dealing with two confirmed meningitis cases in the west

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway daily news Vigilance urged as HSE investigates case of meningitis

Health services are dealing with two confirmed cases of meningitis, and another probably case, in teenagers in the west of Ireland.

Public health services were notified of the cases, which concern three teenagers, in early February. Close contacts have been identified and offered preventive treatment as appropriate.

However, because the three people attended the same school, the health services are following national guidance and as a precaution will offer one dose of an antibiotic to all students and staff.

The HSE has stressed that the risk to others in the school is very low and this action is a precaution.

Meningitis is a serious illness caused by infection and inflammation of the protective layers of the brain and spinal cord. While there are many causes of meningitis, the two most common are viral and bacterial meningitis.

Bacterial meningitis is less common but can be more serious than viral meningitis and requires urgent treatment with antibiotics. It may be accompanied by septicaemia.

Dr Anthony Breslin, Consultant in Public Health Medicine said, “Time is of the essence when you start to notice one or some of the symptoms. Knowing the signs could save your life, or a loved one’s life.”

“Early symptoms can include headache, fever, vomiting, and muscle pain. Further specific symptoms can include fever with cold hands and feet, stiff neck, dislike to bright lights, drowsiness and confusion.”

“The symptoms may appear in any order or some may not appear at all. Please seek immediate medical help if you suspect meningitis.”

The health services have stressed that person-to-person transmission of the disease is uncommon, especially with people who are not a household or physically close personal contact.

The spread of the bacteria is caused by droplets from the nose and mouth. The illness occurs most frequently in young children and adolescents, usually as isolated cases.

Green light for Whiskey Maturation Warehouse for Ahascragh Distillery

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news Green light for Whiskey Maturation Warehouse for Ahascragh Distillery

Planning permission has been granted for a whiskey maturation storage warehouse for the new Ahascragh Distillery.

Easyfix Ltd has been given the green light from An Bord Pleanála to build a single-storey warehouse with a 2,082m² floorspace near Ballinasloe.

The brownfield site is located at Perssepark, just off the R348, approximately 11km south of Ahascragh, and was previously used as a sand/gravel pit, and a storage site for Bord Gais.

The warehouse will be used for maturing whiskey in casks after the spirit has been distilled at the newly opened Ahascragh Distillery.

Galway County Council refused planning for the warehouse last year, citing the location in an unserviced rural area which is not currently zoned for development.

The council also expressed concerns about the potential ecological and environmental impacts of the development.

This decision was appealed to An Bord Pleanála, which ultimately gave it the go-ahead with 10 conditions attached.

The Board’s inspector said that there are unlikely to be any traffic hazards, environmental impacts, visual impact or loss of residential amenity arising from this warehouse.

The decision also stated that it is in line with national policy aimed at supporting the rural economy through a “sustainable and economically efficient” agricultural and food sector.

The €10 million Ahascragh Distillery, located in the renovated and restored 19th Century Mill in town, celebrated its grand opening in July 2023.

This is the first zero emissions distillery in Ireland, with production powered entirely by renewable energy – wind, solar and soon, hydroelectricity, and making use of very high-temperature heat pump technology and an energy-efficient storage system.

Appeal to An Bord Pleanala over Galway City hotel expansion plans

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Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news planning appeal for Galway City hotel expansion

A planning appeal has been lodged against the rejection of plans for a large expansion of the Victoria Hotel in Galway City.

Galway City Council refused planning permission in January for an 8 – 9 storey extension of the city centre hotel, which would have added 91 new bedrooms.

Byrne Hotel Management sought to demolish the existing warehouse, restaurant and associated buildings next to the Victoria Hotel, which is located just south of Eyre Square.

Aside from the additional bedrooms other works in the project were to include a seating area and bar on the ground floor and first floor/mezzanine, along with another rooftop bar and lounge.

Planning permission was ultimately refused by the city council, which said that it was not satisfied that the project would not have environmental impacts on the Galway Bay protected area, or that surface water could be properly disposed of.

Another major reason given for rejecting the project was the potential traffic impact it would have in a city centre area, both during construction and when the hotel extension was operational.

That decision has now been appealed to An Bord Pleanála, which is due to rule on whether to grant planning for the hotel by June 10, 2024.

The appeal disputes the claim that there could be environmental impacts from the development, stating that the council was incorrect in its claims and submitted a Natura Impact Statement with the appeal.

It also states that the council’s own water services were satisfied with the project as long as a condition was included to guarantee that any excess surface water is discharged into a storm pipe.

The Traffic Management Plan submitted with the planning application also addresses the issue of construction and operation traffic associated with the development, the appeal states, and shows that the free flow of traffic will not be adversely affected.

Six Galway schools headed to national finals of VEX Robotics competitions

By
Briain Kelly
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Presentation College Headford students, recipients of the Excellence, Teamwork and Skills awards, pictured with sponsors Niall O’Doherty and Ryan Reich from Boston Scientific, ATU Galway-Mayo Vex Coordinator Dr Carine Gachon on Thursday 18 January 2024 at the ATU Galway VEX VRC 2024 competition.

Six Galway primary and secondary schools are honing their skills for the national finals of the VEX Robotics competitions later this month.

The Galway-Mayo regional events for the VEX Robotics schools’ competitions were hosted by ATU Galway City in January.

Scoil Muire Gan Smal Claremorris, Creagh National School (NS) Ballinasloe, St Augustine’s NS Clontuskert, and Scoil Bhríge agus Bhreandáin Naofa Corrandula made it through to the finals of the VEX IQ competition after beating the competition over January 16-17.

The secondary school VEX competition saw Presentation College Headford, St Colman’s College Claremorris, Ardscoil Mhuire Ballinasloe, and Calasanctius College Oranmore qualify for the national final.

The VEX Teamwork Challenges comprise of a series of matches where participating school teams compete with their robots working collaboratively to score points.

The regional events were the culmination of months of hard work by these young minds designing, building, trouble-shooting and coding their robots.

The competitions saw over 500 primary school and 100 secondary school pupils, from 27 national schools and 13 secondary schools, competing for a place in the national finals.

The national finals will take place on February 28 at MTU Cork, before the winners there head off to the World Championship in Dallas, Texas this April.

The regional competition also included an award for driving and coding skills won by Scoil Muire Gan Smal Claremorris, St Joseph’s NS Ballinrobe and Presentation College Headford.

There was also a Design Award won by Scoil Bhreandan Naofa Clonfert, Clontuskert NS, and Ardscoil Mhuire Ballinasloe. The judges gave special recognition to Glencastle NS, Breaffy NS and Calasanctius College Oranmore.

Dr Carine Gachon, Head of Department and VEX coordinator for ATU Galway-Mayo, said, “Each year, the challenge is different which requires creativity and problem-solving to overcome the difficulties of the game.”

“This year we saw some amazing designs and were impressed with the pupils’ ability to troubleshoot their robot during the competition.”

The event was hosted by the ATU Galway-May Department of Mechanical & industrial Engineering, sponsored by Trane Technologies – Thermo King for the primary schools and Boston Scientific for the secondary schools.

It was also supported by David Hodge, VEX national coordinator of Munster Technological University (MTU), Ray Bell and Dean Hodge of Offaly County Council and Anthony Bayle from the RECF foundation.

Parkmore Road Bus Priority scheme construction begins next week

By
Briain Kelly
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0

Work on the new Parkmore Road Bus Priority scheme is due to get underway next week, with some traffic disruption expected in the coming months.

Phase One of construction of the scheme is due to begin next Monday, February 19.

These works will involve the construction of a southbound bus lane along Parkmore Road from the Parkmore Business Park roundabout to Monivea Road Junction.

This scheme also includes upgrades to the Monivea Road Signalised Junction, the construction and installation of six bus stops and four new signalised pedestrian crossings, and new high-quality footpaths along the entirety of the scheme.

The objective of these works is to provide improved public transport facilities through the construction of a new priority bus lane, while also providing a safer pedestrian environment and connecting the various businesses and amenities in the Parkmore area.

Temporary traffic management measures will be in place throughout the construction period, which has an estimated completion date of Q1, 2025.

Works will be completed in three phases, beginning at the junction of Parkmore Road and Monivea Road. Some elements of the works will be completed at night-time to minimise traffic disruption.

Phase 1 Traffic Management:

  • Some night works (7pm to 7am) will be conducted at the junction to minimise traffic disruption.
  • Two-way traffic will be maintained during peak hours.

Details of the works have been communicated to local residents and businesses, and regular updates will follow throughout the construction period.

A dedicated customer liaison officer has been appointed by the contractor, Jons Civil Engineering, for the duration of the scheme and is available at 086 083 5461.

Regular newsletters will be delivered to local residents and businesses, and also posted online at https://www.galwaycity.ie/parkmore.

Wanchain and Bitcoin: Cross-Chain Finance at Your Fingertips

By
Thomas O'Brien
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0

Blockchain technology, with its unique features of decentralization, security, and transparency, revolutionizes finance but grapples with scalability and interoperability issues. In this landscape, Wanchain stands out as a critical project, bridging different blockchain networks to enable cross-chain finance, thereby expanding the horizons for decentralized applications and financial products. This integration includes significant blockchain players like Bitcoin, creating a more interconnected ecosystem. Complementing this technological stride, https://everix-edge.io/, an investment education firm, offers vital insights and education in finance and blockchain, crucial for anyone looking to navigate this evolving sector.

Understanding Wanchain

Wanchain is a blockchain platform that focuses on interoperability. Its core technology revolves around the concept of “cross-chain smart contracts,” which allow assets to be transferred between different blockchains securely and efficiently. This is achieved through the use of Wanchain’s native token, WAN, and a unique architecture that makes cross-chain communication possible.

 

Wanchain’s architecture includes a set of cross-chain bridges that facilitate the movement of assets and data between different blockchains. These bridges act as intermediaries, ensuring that transactions between blockchains are executed smoothly. The WAN token plays a crucial role in securing and incentivizing these bridges.

 

One of the key advantages of Wanchain is its ability to connect with multiple blockchain networks, making it a versatile solution for developers and users. This flexibility opens up a world of possibilities for cross-chain applications, from decentralized finance (DeFi) to non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and more.

Bitcoin and Its Limitations

While Bitcoin is often hailed as the pioneer of blockchain technology and digital currencies, it has its limitations. Bitcoin’s primary use case is as a store of value and a medium of exchange. However, its blockchain faces scalability issues, resulting in slow transaction processing times and high fees during peak demand.

 

The scalability challenges of Bitcoin have led to the exploration of Layer 2 solutions and cross-chain interoperability to enhance its utility. Cross-chain solutions like Wanchain play a vital role in addressing these limitations and expanding the use cases of Bitcoin beyond simple transactions.

Wanchain’s Cross-Chain Solution

Wanchain’s cross-chain solution is designed to address the limitations of existing blockchain networks, including Bitcoin. It achieves this through a unique architecture that allows assets to flow seamlessly between blockchains.

 

Wanchain’s cross-chain mechanism operates in three main steps: locking, transfer, and unlocking. When a user wants to transfer an asset from one blockchain to another, they lock the asset on the source blockchain. The asset is then transferred to Wanchain’s blockchain, where it can be seamlessly moved to the destination blockchain. Finally, the asset is unlocked on the destination blockchain, making it available for use.

 

This process is facilitated by Wanchain’s smart contract technology, which ensures the security and trustworthiness of cross-chain transactions. These transactions are trustless, meaning that users do not need to rely on intermediaries or centralized exchanges to facilitate cross-chain transfers.

Security and Trust on Wanchain

Security is paramount in the world of blockchain, especially when dealing with cross-chain transactions. Wanchain employs a robust security framework to ensure the safety of assets during their journey between blockchains.

 

Wanchain uses a unique proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism to secure its network. Validators play a crucial role in verifying and confirming cross-chain transactions, and they are required to stake WAN tokens as collateral, incentivizing them to act honestly.

 

The trustless nature of cross-chain transactions on Wanchain means that users can have confidence in the security of their assets without the need for intermediaries. This is a significant advancement in the world of decentralized finance and blockchain technology.

Real-World Applications

Wanchain’s cross-chain technology opens up a multitude of real-world applications. In the DeFi space, it allows users to move assets seamlessly between different blockchain networks, enabling cross-chain lending, borrowing, and trading. This not only enhances liquidity but also reduces the barriers to entry for DeFi participants.

 

NFTs, which have gained immense popularity in recent years, can also benefit from Wanchain’s cross-chain capabilities. Artists and creators can mint NFTs on one blockchain and sell them on another, increasing the reach and accessibility of their digital assets.

 

Moreover, the potential impact of Wanchain extends beyond crypto-native applications. Traditional financial institutions can leverage cross-chain technology to settle transactions more efficiently and securely, reducing the risk of fraud and errors.

Challenges and Future Outlook

While Wanchain and cross-chain finance hold immense promise, there are challenges to overcome. One such challenge is achieving widespread adoption and integration with existing blockchain networks. Collaboration and cooperation among various blockchain projects will be key to realizing the full potential of cross-chain finance.

 

The future of cross-chain finance is bright, as it has the potential to revolutionize the blockchain space. As more projects like Wanchain emerge and new use cases are discovered, we can expect to see increased innovation and growth in the decentralized finance ecosystem.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Wanchain is at the forefront of the cross-chain finance revolution, making it possible for users to access a world of blockchain applications and assets seamlessly. By addressing the limitations of existing blockchain networks and enhancing the utility of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Wanchain is paving the way for a more interconnected and efficient blockchain ecosystem. As we look to the future, cross-chain finance is poised to play a significant role in reshaping the world of finance and beyond. Explore Wanchain and discover the possibilities of cross-chain finance at your fingertips.

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