Call for Minister to provide clear timeline on ACRES payments

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January 30, 2024

Planning sought for major Knocknacarra office complex

Planning permission is being sought for a large commercial development consisting of three office blocks in the Knocknacarra area of Galway City.

The application by McDonogh Capital Investments is four three office blocks ranging from four to eight storeys in height on a site located on Bothar Stiofain.

The site of the proposed office blocks is currently an empty greenfield location near the Rahoon Road junction.

The development would consist of three office buildings four, six, and eight storeys tall respectively, with the shortest office block fronting onto Bothar Stiofain and the tallest at the eastern end of the site.

The office development will be served by 167 car parking spaces wrapped around the boundaries of the site. These will include 9 accessible parking spaces and 33 with EV charging stations.

The development will also include 216 bicycle parking spaces and 9 motorcycle spaces. New entry and exit points will be created onto Bothar Stiofain.

A decision on this planning application is due from Galway City Council by March 20 of this year.

Galway City Council recently announced plans for a major upgrade to Bothar Stiofain to provide dedicated cycling lanes on either side of the road and improved footpaths.

Tonnta! – Galway’s newest festival lighting up the streets

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January 30, 2024

Galway's newest festival Tonnta taking to the streets

Galway’s newest festival Tonnta will be taking to the streets of the city on St Brigid’s Day, and running for the remainder of the week.

Organised by Gaillimhe le Gaeilge, Tonnta celebrates Galway’s status as a bilingual city with a wide range of events planned.

The festival programme includes the Trad Rave in the Róisín Dubh on Thursday; Altan in the Town Hall Theatre on Friday 2nd; Liam O’Maonlaí in the Taibhdhearc on Saturday 3rd; and Ceoltóirí Óga Chonamara In the Eyre Sq Centre also on Saturday.

Eyre Square will be the centre of attention this Saturday with the free Céilí Mór filling the afternoon from 2pm – 5pm.

Come evening time is when sparks will really fly with two fire shows presented by the renowned Rogu at 5:15pm and at 7pm.

The weekend will also be full of talks, workshops, the Irish Language Cartoon Exhibition presented by the Galway Cartoon Festival, and Lá na bPáistí all taking place in the PorterShed a Dó on Saturday and Sunday.

That word you’re looking for will be right above you on the overhead bunting as you stroll through the Latin Quarter – just reach up and grab a few and use them!

Many workshops and events will be bilingual including the Food and Whiskey Tours, the Dirty Circus in the Taibhdhearc and Story Time in conjunction with the Moth and Butterfly Festival in the City Library.

Tonnta is also about Mnásome Women!

On St Brigid’s Day and indeed all weekend we celebrate women and Tonnta is delighted to bring you a live presentation of the Beo ar Éigean podcast, the Mnásome Geeze comedy performance in the Róisín Dubh and Seisiún Ceol na mBan at the Crane.

Almost 70 people on trolleys in Galway hospitals this morning

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January 30, 2024

Galway Daily news 67 people on trolleys at UHG

It’s another bad day for overcrowding at Galway’s hospital, with almost 70 patients on trolleys across the county this morning.

University Hospital Galway was the third most overcrowded in Ireland today, with 53 patients admitted with no beds available.

In the emergency departments at UHG there were 41 patients on trolleys INMO figures show, with another 12 people in the wards waiting for a bed.

At Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe, there are 16 patients on trolleys, 5 of them in the emergency department and 11 in the hospital wards.

Nationwide there were 586 people on trolleys in Irish hospitals this morning according to INMO Trolley/Ward Watch figures.

The worst affected hospitals are UH Limerick (106), Cork University Hospital (71), UHG (53), and Sligo University Hospital (32).

A first for Saolta’s Children’s Nurse Graduates

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January 30, 2024

A first for Saolta's Children's Nurse Graduates

Last year, seven new Children’s Nursing Specialists graduated from an innovative postgraduate programme developed by Saolta.

The newly qualified specialist nurses are based in Galway University Hospitals, Portiuncula University Hospital, Letterkenny University Hospital, Sligo University Hospital, and Mayo University Hospital.

This programme is unique in that it delivers a blended learning model with remote and in-person lectures.

It is also the only pathway which allows post-registration nurses to pursue a Higher Diploma in Children’s Nursing without undertaking a course based in Dublin.

Children’s healthcare services are facing ever-increasing demands due to the evolving profile of children’s healthcare needs.

The number of Children’s Nurses qualifying is low in comparison with other disciplines and this programme was born from a need to ensure Saolta’s nursing teams continue to have the highest level of skill, qualification and training to care for our younger population.

Siobhán Horkan, Director of Paediatric Nursing for the Saolta Group who led the project, explains, “The provision and resourcing of effective child healthcare services are critical in both preventing and managing illness and chronic disease in childhood.”

“For this, we need an adaptable, knowledgeable and skilled children’s nursing workforce. It’s crucial we continue to train Registered Children’s Nurses in a way that works for students.”

“Throughout the hybrid programme students attended lectures online and in person, had clinical placements in hospitals across Saolta, CHI at Crumlin, CAMHS, Neonatal Intensive Care Units, Emergency Departments as well as clinical placements in the community.”

The blended learning model means students can undertake placements closer to home and are not required to be based in Dublin, this is a huge selling point.”

Paul Hooton, Chief Director of Nursing and Midwifery for the Saolta Group added, “This programme is a milestone in the training of Children’s Nurses in Ireland and also a brilliant example of nursing innovation in action.”

“The Saolta Hybrid Post Registration Nursing Programme is a proven, successful education model which will positively impact both our capacity to deliver specialist nursing care, and the health and wellbeing of the children and young people who use our services well into the future.”

The programme will be open to new applications shortly, email the programme coordinator Karen Grennan (Karen.Grennan2@hse.ie) for more information.

Aran Islands and Galway RNLI training on Galway Bay

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January 30, 2024

Crews from the Aran Islands and Galway RNLI stations showed the spirit of cooperation in a joint training exercise on Galway Bay last weekend.

The training was an opportunity for the crews from the two flanking stations to work together on a number of boat handling and seamanship exercises to prepare for future joint search and rescue missions.

Brian Niland, helm with Galway RNLI, who led the exercise for the Galway crew said that they were delighted to welcome the Aran Islands crew to the city for a training exercise off Salthill.

“It was impressive to see the larger Aran Islands lifeboat and see how the two lifeboats can work side by side. The training was a great learning experience for both crews and will help us when we are requested to launch together, to help those in danger in the water.”

“Our volunteer lifeboat crews spend many hours training so we can meet the dangers and challenges we face at sea.”

Aran Islands RNLI Coxswain Aonghus Ó hIarnáin said, “Saturday’s training exercise was a good chance to meet the Galway crew and show what the lifeboat from each station is capable of.”

“The type of lifeboat a station has depends on geographical features, the kind of rescues the station is involved in and the cover provided by neighbouring lifeboat stations,” he added.

The Aran Islands Lifeboat station makes use of the Severn class all-weather lifeboat, as they frequently face rough seas and weather conditions coming in from the oceans.

In contrast, Galway Station uses the Atlantic class rib lifeboat, the fastest boat in the Irish RNLI fleet.

This is ideal for rescues by the shore or rocks, where larger boats may not reach, and when time is of the essence with a person in the water.

“Working together we are able to carry out search and rescue throughout Galway Bay,” Aonghus Ó hIarnáin said.

“24 hours a day, 7 days a week, RNLI lifeboat crews are ready to answer the call to rescue. If you see someone in trouble at the coast call 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.”

Relatives of 1916 leader back Julia Morrissey Bridge campaign

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January 30, 2024

galway daily news julia morrissey bridge

Relatives of 1916 leader Éamonn Ceannt have backed the campaign to have Galway’s new pedestrian bridge named after Galway woman and 1916 Cumann na mBan commander Julia Morrissey.

Like Morrissey, Ceannt was born in County Galway and was a signatory of the 1916 Proclamation, and was executed for his role in the Easter Rising.

In a statement, Ceannt’s grandnephew, also called Éamonn, said that he and his brother would like to add their names to the campaign to have the new bridge named after Julia Morrissey.

“Her work during the 1916 Rising, when she took command of a contingent of Cumann na mBan volunteers in Galway, under the overall leadership of Liam Mellows, deserves to be recognised in a real and tangible way. She paid a heavy price for her actions,” he said.

“David and I laud her commitment and her contribution to the birth of our Nation.”

Welcoming the support of Ceannt’s grandnephews, chairperson of the Julia Morrissey Bridge Campaign committee, Ian Ó Dálaigh, said that they are delighted to have the support of Éamonn Ceannt’s relatives.

“Ceannt himself has been publicly recognised in Galway City for his contribution in 1916 – and deservedly so,” said Ó Dálaigh.

“The city’s train station was named after him in 1966, during the wave of anniversary events to mark the 50th anniversary of the 1916 Rising.

“However, it was almost entirely men who were honoured at that time. Even today, there is very little public commemoration of our Patriot women, with the notable exception of the Rosie Hackett Bridge.”

He said that with the naming of the city’s new bridge, there is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Galway City Council to play their part in addressing this longstanding issue.

“We implore them to do the right thing by formally honouring Julia Morrissey in the centre of her native county.

“108 years after the Rising and 50 years after the death of Julia Morrissey, it’s long past time for the contribution of Galway’s forgotten 1916 leader to be recognised.”

University of Galway prepares for Postgrad Open Day next week

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January 30, 2024

Galway Daily news NUIG construction €15 million over budget, 45 months late

University of Galway’s 2024 Postgraduate Open Day will take place on Tuesday, 6 February from 12pm to 3pm in the Bailey Allen Hall.

The event will focus on opportunities to improve employability and earning potential, with an insight into the options on offer for postgrads.

The event will explore the full-time and part-time postgraduate programmes available at the University, including taught and research masters, and doctoral research options.

All EU postgraduate students with a first class honours in their undergraduate degree are eligible to apply for a €1,500 scholarship towards their taught Masters at the University in 2024.

Sarah Geraghty, Director of Student Recruitment and Outreach at University of Galway, said that a postgraduate qualification is an investment in your career.

“We especially encourage visitors to explore the opportunities to improve their employability by expanding their knowledge, skills and expertise in their field,” she said.

“Insights from industry continuously demonstrate the significant financial value of a postgraduate qualification in the starting salary after graduation, and importantly it’s a benefit that can be realised right throughout the lifetime of a career.”

University of Galway introduces new postgraduate programmes annually, many of which are unique and designed to meet industry needs.

Recently announced new programmes include MSc Fintech (Economics and Financial Technology) welcoming applications from graduates of business, economics and finance degrees, or computer science and engineering graduates with a background in economics, and a relaunch of the MSc (Management and Sustainability) designed to shape future business leaders who will drive positive change, contribute to responsible business practices, and make a lasting impact on the world.

The School of Law has launched a new LLM in Criminology, Criminal Justice and Human Rights leading to possibilities in national, regional and international criminal justice agencies, NGOs and courts.

The upcoming event is also an opportunity to explore the expanding range of flexible, part-time and online learning programmes designed for learners who are returning to study, pivoting their career to a new industry to upskilling in their current job.

Bookings are now open for the event and visitors and book their place at https://universityofgalway.ie/choose-postgrad/

Met Éireann issues status yellow weather warning for Galway

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January 30, 2024

Galway daily weather Met Eireann weather warning in force for Galway today

A status yellow weather warning has been issued for Galway, Mayo, Donegal, Sligo and Leitrim ahead of strong winds on Wednesday.

The Met Éireann warning will come into effect at 8am on Wednesday and remain in place until 1pm.

They said that strong and gusty southwest winds could lead to wave overtopping in the West.

A band of rain will develop in early afternoon on Wednesday, clearing later in the evening.

Today however will be dry and bright, with just the chance of an isolated shower. Low winter sunshine is forecast for what will be a fresh day with highest temperatures of 7 to 9 degrees.

PBP Galway renews call to end privatisation of waste management

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January 30, 2024

Galway Daily news Galway shoppers threw away €330 worth of food during lockdown

People Before Profit Galway has renewed its call to end the privatisation of waste management following an RTÉ report over the weekend that showed that waste collection companies in Ireland are making profits of €350 million a year.

Galway City Central candidate Adrian Curran said that waste collection is an essential public service and should not be used for profiteering by private companies.

“There is a huge cost-of-living crisis in Galway with people struggling to pay their bills,” he said.

“Waste collection should be a free public service, provided by the state through city and county councils, as it was previously, and it should not be subject to profit motives.”

Galway City West candidate Maisie McMaster added that private companies running waste collection have no motive for reducing waste when that should be the primary objective.

“We need legislation to reduce commercial packaging and advertising which make up a significant portion of waste.”

Galway City East candidate Denman Rooke said that bringing waste collection back into the hands of one operator – the local councils – would be better for the environment and our local communities.

“This would end the ridiculous situation where multiple trucks are collecting in each estate and street, sometimes just for one bin,” said Denman.

“This would reduce emissions and traffic on waste collection days.”

Keith Finnegan to bid farewell to Galway Talks in April

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January 29, 2024

galway daily news keith finnegan galway bay fm presenter

Galway Bay FM’s Keith Finnegan has revealed that he will bid farewell to ‘Galway Talks’ in April after 20,000 hours behind the microphone at the local station.

Keith’s decision to leave the show on April 12 comes after extensive contemplation and discussions with his family, who have offered their full support as he passes the baton to a new voice.

With almost 34 years of dedicated service to the station, Keith believes now is the right time to move on.

Beginning at Radio West in 1989, later rebranded as Galway Bay FM, Keith’s journey has seen him evolve from a Saturday and Sunday afternoon music presenter to the CEO/director role, and ultimately, focusing on the radio program for the past two years.

Reflecting on his remarkable tenure, Keith shared some personal and professional highlights, including daily interviews with local and international guests, participation in the three-day charity event Radiothon, an invitation to the White House for St Patrick’s Day, and leading the St Patrick’s Day parade as Grand Marshal in St Louis alongside his wife Joan.

His achievements include winning IMRO radio awards and induction into the IMRO Hall of Fame, all made possible by an exceptional team that surrounded him.

Keith expressed his gratitude to the talented producers, dedicated team of journalists, presenters, administration, digital and sales team, as well as the Board of Directors, whose exemplary stewardship contributed to the station’s success.

Keith also extended his appreciation to the businesses of Galway for their sponsorship and advertising, and most importantly, to the listeners across Galway city and county for their continued loyalty and engagement.

He acknowledged the support of his family, especially his wife, Joan, and children, Katie and Aidan, and also highlighted the enriching experience of working alongside Katie as his producer for eight years, creating both professional and familial bonds in the workplace.

Reflecting on his journey in radio, Keith shared a humorous anecdote from his childhood, where he and his father built a radio transmitter in their home in Mervue, setting the stage for his lifelong passion for broadcasting.

While Keith has upcoming projects on the horizon, he looks forward to sharing them at a later date.

He said that he was excited about new challenges and the prospect of leaving behind the early morning starts that have been a constant for over 30 years.

As Keith passes the reins of ‘Galway Talks’ to a new voice, he wishes them every success and looks forward to being an avid listener.

Students left “high and dry” by Bus Éireann says local senator

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January 29, 2024

galway daily news bus éireann open day for female drivers

Local senator Seán Kyne has said that Bus Éireann has failed many pupils and their parents in the Moycullen and Oughterard area in this year’s School Transport Scheme.

Some pupils in the Moycullen, Roscahill and Oughterard areas who attend St. Pauls Secondary School, Oughterard and Educate Together in Galway have been left “high and dry” by the national bus company, Senator Kyne has said.

He said that disruptions to services were flagged in October last, and that months later, no service has been provided.

“While some issues were outside of Bus Éireann control, they have failed to provide alternatives for frustrated parents and their children,” the Fine Gael senator said.

“Bus Éireann management must get to grips with these problems and provide alternatives. It seems now that Bus Éireann are hoping to coast to the end of term with no alternative buses or drivers.

“I have contacted the West Region School Transport manager to request a meeting with Oireachtas members and Councillors to get action on this situation,” said Senator Kyne.

Memorial service for families who have suffered bereavement at Portiuncula Hospital

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January 29, 2024

Galway Daily news Memorial service Portiuncula Hospital

Portiuncula Hospital is holding a memorial service in February for parents and families who have suffered bereavement.

The remembrance service is meant for all who have experienced bereavement through the death of a child or who have lost a baby through miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth, or after birth.

Deirdre Naughton, Director of Midwifery at the hospital said, “This service offers parents who have experienced bereavement an opportunity to reflect on their grief journey through symbol, music and prayer.”

“Parents who have attended this service in the past have shared with us that they have found it to be a time of healing and comfort.”

The service will take place at 7.30pm on Monday, February 12 in the hospital Chapel and families are welcome to join other families for light refreshments afterwards.

Aoife Raftery ready for “demanding and tricky” Galway International Rally

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January 29, 2024

Aoife Raftery & Ronan Comerford Barum Czech Rally Zlín 2023 2 — Photo: Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy.

Galway’s Aoife Raftery will get her 2024 season underway on her home event this weekend at the Corrib Oil Galway International Rally.

Last year the Craughwell-based driver recorded an impressive debut season in the FIA Junior European Rally Championship.

She was the first Irish woman to commit to an internationally recognised rally championship since the late and great Rosemary Smith’s exploits in the same competition in the 1970s.

Motorsport Ireland Academy member Raftery is also serving as the Women in Motorsport ambassador for the Galway International Rally this year.

The Irish season opener is notorious for being one of the toughest events on the calendar.

Wet and muddy roads, unpredictable weather and a demanding timetable mean getting to finish is a challenge in itself.

“I am really looking forward to being on the start line of the Corrib Oil Galway International Rally. It is a super event to start off the year with and it brings a lot of attention to the area.”

“It is always really special for me to be able to get to compete at my home event and represent all my local sponsors too,” said the first female driver to be accepted into the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy.

“It is known for being a demanding and tricky rally so we will do our best to come back with a good result.“

Raftery will drive a Broderick Motorsport-prepared Peugeot 208 Rally4 on the rally that will get underway with a Ceremonial Start in Eyre Square at 8 pm on February 2.

Two action-packed days, centred at Galway Airport will follow ahead of the official awards ceremony at the Connaught Hotel on Sunday night.

A capacity entry has been confirmed for the first major rally of the year.

The Galway International Rally has retained its full weekend format and is expected to generate over 2,500 bed nights for the city and county which is estimated to generate more than €3m of revenue for the local economy.

Plans for new cycling and pedestrian infrastructure in Knocknacarra

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January 29, 2024

Galway Daily news Plans for new cycling and pedestrian infrastructure in Knocknacarra

Galway City Council has announced plans for new pedestrian cycling infrastructure along Bothar Stiofáin in Knocknacarra.

The Bóthar Stiofáin Cycle Network Scheme will include upgrades to 870m of Bothar Stiofáin between the junctions with the Rahoon Road and Western Distributor Road.

This will create segregated cycle tracks on both sides of the carriageway and add a footpath to the eastern side of the carriageway.

The project will also include four new raised zebra crossing points on the road, as well as upgraded public lighting, landscaping and drainage amendments.

The goal of the scheme is to improve safety, reduce vehicle speeds, and contribute towards an increased number of trips in the area by pedestrians and cyclists.

Plans and particulars of this project are available to view online, and can also be accessed at city hall.

Public submissions in relation to this project can be made until March 8, and should be submitted to planning@galwaycity.ie or by post to: Planning Department, Galway City Council, College Road, Galway.

University of Galway’s Professor appointed new Chair to the Board of the National Museum of Ireland

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January 29, 2024

Exhibition galleries — National Museum of Ireland - Natural History, ground floor exhibition galleries showing giant Irish deer

The University of Galway’s Professor Cathal O’Donoghue has been appointed as the new Chairperson to the Board of the National Museum of Ireland.

Prof. O’Donoghue was initially appointed to the Board in 2021 and is a highly experienced economist and statistician.

With this appointment by Minister Catherine Martin, he will now Chair the Board up to July 2026.

Minister Martin said, “I congratulate Cathal on his appointment and I wish him well as he steps up to this exciting role.”

“He is already serving on the Board and comes to the position of Chair with significant past experience in leadership, economics, and social policy.”

Since 2016 Prof. O’Donoghue has been the Established Chair of Social and Public Policy, at the University of Galway. From 2016-2020, he held the role of Dean of Arts and Social Sciences.

He was previously Head of the Rural Economy and Development Programme at Teagasc, the national body providing integrated research, advisory and training services to the agriculture and food industry and rural communities.

He was a member of the Fund Council of CGIAR, a $1 billion-a-year International Agri-Food Research organisation, from 2014-2016.

Since 2021 he has been Chair of the Foundation Board of the RDS. He is Chair of Burren Lowlands CLG, and a member of the Board of Music for Galway, Burren Beo and the International Microsimulation Association.

Minister Martin added, “I have confidence that he will lead the Board effectively in providing oversight to the National Museum of Ireland and its executive team, headed by Lynn Scarff.”

“I look forward to seeing the NMI continue and grow as a prominent and historic national cultural institution.”

The Minister has also recently appointed two new ordinary members to the Board, Rowena Neville and Suzanne Costello.

Rowena Neville leads Blue Line Consulting, working with clients across business, public sector, arts and culture, academia, and non-profit sectors.

Ms. Neville has worked with organisations locally and internationally to devise and implement solutions to address a range of business challenges including broadening diversity, social inclusion, institutional and organisational sustainability, and measuring impact.

Suzanne Costello is CEO of the Institute of Public Health in Ireland since 2018. Throughout her career, Suzanne has been involved in strategy, communications and policy development work in Ireland and the UK in the not-for-profit and public sectors.

Suzanne has a primary degree in Social Science from University College Dublin, a Master’s in Business Studies, and a Diploma in Strategy, Innovation and Change, from the Michael Smurfit Graduate School of Business, UCD.

Shamrocks and Slot Machines: Navigating the Rich Cultural Landscape of Irish Casinos

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Thomas O'Brien

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January 29, 2024

Ireland, a land steeped in history, folklore, and a vibrant cultural heritage, has embraced the world of casinos with a unique flair. As the digital age sweeps across the Emerald Isle, online casinos have become a prominent aspect of Ireland’s gaming landscape.

In this exploration, we will delve into the rich cultural tapestry of Irish casinos, both land-based and online, to understand the unique blend of tradition and modernity that shapes the gaming experience in this enchanting country.

A Historical Perspective:

Ireland’s relationship with gambling dates back centuries, with roots embedded in traditional Irish pastimes. From spirited horse racing events to lively pub games, the Irish have long reveled in games of chance. The arrival of formalized casinos, both land-based and online, represents an evolution of this age-old tradition into a contemporary form of entertainment.

Traditional Irish Luck:

Luck and superstition are integral to Irish culture, and this spirit permeates the gaming experience. Many Irish casinos, online and offline, often incorporate symbols of luck, such as shamrocks and horseshoes, into their design and branding. This nod to tradition adds a touch of Irish charm to the gaming ambiance.

The Pervasiveness of Irish Themed Slots:

In the realm of online casinos, one cannot escape the allure of Irish-themed slots. These games, adorned with leprechauns, pots of gold, and rolling green hills, pay homage to Irish folklore. Titles like “Rainbow Riches” and “Irish Luck” have become staples in the best online casinos in Ireland, offering players a virtual journey through the whimsical landscape of Irish mythology.

Land-Based Casinos:

While the online gaming scene is flourishing, Ireland also boasts several land-based casinos. Dublin, in particular, is home to some well-known establishments. The Fitzwilliam Casino & Card Club and the Sporting Emporium Casino are among the notable venues that offer a traditional, luxurious casino experience amid the bustling streets of the capital.

Cultural Events and Casino Nights:

Irish casinos often go beyond the gaming tables, hosting cultural events and themed casino nights. These gatherings provide a social space for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the thrill of casino games while immersing themselves in Irish music, dance, and traditions. Such events bridge the gap between gaming and cultural enrichment.

Irish Hospitality in Casinos:

One cannot discuss Ireland without acknowledging the famed Irish hospitality, a trait that extends to the gaming industry. Both online and land-based casinos in Ireland prioritize creating a welcoming atmosphere. From friendly customer support in online platforms to the warm ambiance in physical casinos, the Irish commitment to hospitality enhances the overall gaming experience.

Gaelic Games and Sports Betting:

Ireland’s passion for sports, particularly Gaelic games like hurling and Gaelic football, is mirrored in the realm of sports betting. Many Irish casinos, online and offline, offer comprehensive sportsbooks. This convergence of traditional sports enthusiasm with modern betting platforms adds a dynamic layer to the Irish gaming landscape.

Regulatory Landscape:

Navigating the world of Irish casinos requires an understanding of the regulatory landscape. The Irish government oversees and regulates the gaming industry to ensure fairness and responsible gambling. Both online and land-based casinos adhere to these regulations, contributing to a secure and trustworthy gaming environment.

Emergence of Live Dealer Games:

Advancements in technology have ushered in a new era of online gaming with the introduction of live dealer games. The best online casinos in Ireland now offer players the chance to experience the authenticity of a land-based casino from the comfort of their homes. Live dealer games create an immersive and interactive gaming experience, blending tradition with innovation.

Cultural Sensitivity in Marketing:

Successful Irish casinos understand the importance of cultural sensitivity in their marketing strategies. They recognize the need to align with Irish values and traditions while promoting responsible gambling. This approach fosters a positive relationship between the casino and its patrons, contributing to a sense of community within the gaming sphere.

Innovations in Payment Methods:

Tech innovations have streamlined the payment process in online casinos. The best online casinos in Ireland leverage modern payment methods, including e-wallets and digital currencies, ensuring convenient and secure transactions. This tech-forward approach enhances the overall user experience for players navigating the digital gaming landscape.

Community Engagement:

Irish casinos, both physical and online, actively engage with the local community. Sponsorship of cultural events, support for local charities, and initiatives promoting responsible gambling demonstrate a commitment to being integral parts of the Irish community. This community-focused approach resonates with players who value socially responsible gaming.

Final Thought

As we traverse the cultural landscape of Irish casinos, from the traditional symbolism of shamrocks to the vibrant world of online slots and live dealer games, it becomes evident that Ireland’s gaming scene is a harmonious blend of heritage and modernity.

Whether one seeks the allure of a land-based casino in Dublin or the convenience of the best online casinos in Ireland, the gaming experience is enriched by a deep appreciation for Irish culture, hospitality, and a touch of the legendary Irish luck. Shamrocks and slot machines coalesce to create an enchanting gaming journey that mirrors the spirit of the Emerald Isle itself.

More than 1,000 homes in Galway under construction in December

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January 28, 2024

More than 1,000 new homes were completed in Galway last year, with the same amount under construction in December 2023.

In the twelve months to December 2023, 1,057 new residential address points in Galway were added to the GeoDirectory database.

The latest GeoDirectory Residential Buildings Report also shows that 1,072 residential buildings were under construction in Galway last December.

The report, prepared by EY, found that Dublin and Leinster counties continue to record the highest levels of new construction activity in Ireland.

Of the total number of residential buildings under construction in December 2023, 15.7% were in Dublin. After Dublin, building levels were highest in Cork (12% of total), Kildare (11.9%) and Meath (6.2%).

Dara Keogh, CEO of GeoDirectory said, “Over the past twelve months we have seen increases in the number of buildings under construction and new residential address points across the State, which is a positive development.”

“The report has also identified a continued drop in the number of vacant and derelict properties, which would indicate that efforts and policies to bring these units into the housing stock are having an impact.”

The residential vacancy rate in Galway was 5.9% in December 2023, higher than the national average of 3.9%.

Galway was still doing far better than the other counties in the west of Ireland, which saw the highest levels of vacancy in the country.

The highest residential vacancy rates were found in Leitrim (12%), Mayo (10.7%) and Roscommon (10.4%).

For the past two quarters, the overall residential vacancy rate in Ireland has been below 4%, the lowest level recorded by GeoDirectory since reporting started in 2013.

Galway, however, had the third-highest proportion of derelict address points, with Mayo registering the highest concentration, at 13.7% of the national total, followed by Donegal (11.7%) and Galway (8.7%).

There were 2,263 residential property transactions in Galway in the twelve months to October 2023, with an average property price of €323,199.

The average residential property price increased by 4.7% to €370,709 in the twelve months to October 2023, with the average price rising in every county.

Galway v Mayo: Where to watch Allianz League opening match

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January 28, 2024

Galway Daily sport Galway v Armagh: All-Ireland Final on the Big Screen in Pearse Stadium

Galway and Mayo will clash this afternoon in the first round of the 2024 Allianz Football League.

The match will take place in Pearse Stadium, with throw-in a 1:45pm on Sunday. This is an all-ticket game and no tickets will be available to purchase at the ground on the day.

For those who couldn’t make it in person, the game will be broadcast live on TG4 Sport.

It is expected that the match will result in increased traffic in the Salthill area, so supporters are advised to arrive early.

Turnstiles will be open at the Main Entrance on Rockbarton Road, at Arus Bóthar na Trá on Dr. Manix Road and at the back of the stand. Gates will open at 12:15pm.

The Galway side for today’s game is:

Conor Gleeson (Dunmore McHales)
Johnny McGrath (Caherlistrane)
Seán Fitzgerald (CLG Bhearna)
Eoghan Kelly (Moycullen)
Seán Mulkerrin (Oileán Árann)
John Daly [C] (Mountbellew Moylough)
Kieran Molloy (Corofin)
John Maher (Salthill Knocknacarra)
Dylan McHugh (Corofin)
Johnny Heaney (Killannin)
Shane Walsh (Kilmacud Crokes)
Céin Darcy (Ballyboden St. Enda’s)
Liam Ó Conghaile (An Spidéal)
Damien Comer (Annaghdown)
Cathal Sweeney (Salthill Knocknacarra)

Replacements

Oran Burke (Corofin)
Daniel O’Flaherty (Salthill Knocknacarra)
Cian Monaghan (Oughterard)
Ger Davoren (Moycullen)
Paul Conroy (St. James’)
Niall Daly (Kilconly)
Mathew Tierney (Oughterard)
Patrick Egan (Corofin)
Cillian Ó Curraoin (Micheál Breathnach)
Jack McCabe (Corofin)
Robert Finnerty (Salthill Knocknacarra)

Is Colm hiding a guilty conscience in Ros na Run?

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January 28, 2024