Storm Isha: Power outages affecting thousands as ESB works to repair faults

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January 21, 2024

Galway Daily sports Public consultation on adding 14 new sporting events to free-to-air TV

St. Thomas’ are the All-Ireland Hurling Champions after a thrilling last second win over O’Loghlin Gaels this afternoon.

Eanna Burke scored the incredible final point from the sidelines, amid terrible weather, which has seen St. Thomas triumph.

That unbelievable final shot, right as extra time was coming to an end, made the final score 0-18 to 0-17 for St. Thomas.

St Thomas has now claimed their second senior club hurling title with today’s extraordinary win.

An incredible comeback after trailing at half-time, and working with just 14 players after Regan got a red card just two minutes into the second half.

Storm Isha: Roads and car parks closed as public urged to secure loose items

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January 21, 2024

People in Galway are being urged to take action to protect themselves and their properties ahead of the status red warning for Storm Isha which comes into effect at 5pm.

People should secure loose objects such as trampolines and garden furniture as soon as possible, and stay indoors.

A number of roads are closed due as a result of the storm until further notice.

The road from the roundabout at Seapoint along Seapoint Promenade as far as Galway Business School is closed, as well as Rosshill Road and Dock Road.

The following car parks will remain closed until further notice: Toft car park, Salthill car park, Silverstrand Road / car park, and Ballyloughane Beach Road will be local access only.

Property owners/residents in areas prone to flooding should be prepared with any measures they have available to them.

Sandbags are available at Tourist Kiosk Salthill, Claddagh Hall, Fire Station Fr Burke Road, Spanish Arch and the Docks beside the Pedestrian Crossing (St Nicholas Street).

All Galway City Council Facilities will be closed from 2pm: Galway City Council Museum, Leisureland, Community Centres: Knocknacarra; Ballinfoile, Westside and Renmore.

Storm Isha: Trains to operate on all routes but expect delays

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January 21, 2024

All trains are scheduled to operate on all routes this evening during the status red warning issued by Met Éireann for Storm Isha.

But an 80 kph (50mph) speed restriction to train services operating between Athlone and Galway from 5pm this evening will result in delays.

The restriction also applies to services between Athlone and Westport/Ballina from 5pm.

Response crews will be operating on the network, and travelling on board trains, to address any issues which may arise.

Customers are advised to allow extra time to reach stations in affected areas, and to consider if their journey is absolutely necessary.

Met Éireann’s status red warning affects Galway, Mayo and Donegal from 5pm until 9pm this evening (Sunday).

Storm Isha: STATUS RED weather warning issued for Galway

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January 21, 2024

Galway Daily news Storm Bram road closures

Galway has been upgraded to a Status Red weather warning by Met Eireann this morning as Storm Isha is to bring extremely dangerous winds to the west coast.

The Status Red wind warning for Galway and Mayo will be in place from 5pm on Sunday until 9pm tonight.

“Storm Isha will bring extremely strong and gusty southwest winds with severe and destructive gusts, particularly in coastal and exposed areas.”

The alert warns of dangerous coastal conditions with high waves and overtopping, treacherous travelling conditions, and the likelihood of widespread power outages.

An Orange wind warning for Galway will also be in place from 4pm this afternoon until 3am on Monday.

On top of this, a Yellow weather warning is already in place for all of Ireland this morning and will remain in effect until 4am on Monday.

Galway City Council has enacted multiple safeguards including closing roads and car parks in Salthill this morning, and making sandbags available to the public.

Ros na Rún – John Joe enacts a disastrous plan and Sonny is on the warpath

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January 21, 2024

Galway Daily television Sonny is at death's doorstep in Ros na Rún

John has a dodgy plan that sends Sonny on the warpath, it’s the moment of truth for Máire, and Niall’s radio show draws ire in Ros na Rún.

Máire’s flight to Spain leaves today and emotions are running high in Ros na Rún.

Berni organizes Máire’s going away party, but little does she know, Máire is still having her doubts about the move.

John Joe is taken aback after learning that he needs money sooner than expected. In the meantime, Sonny is oblivious and thrilled that everything is finally coming together.

John Joe must act fast and delay construction. He executes a dodgy plan but quickly realises that he has messed up big time. Whatever has he done?

There is no end in sight for Niall’s controversial radio show. Caitríona is horrified when he airs a debate about single mothers, but Niall stands his ground.

However, Bobbi Lee is also not impressed and Niall is clearly impacted by her words. Niall must choose between his career and his friends.

Diana and Mack share a romantic morning together, but he panics when Tomás shows up at Berni’s apartment, believing that he’s on to them.

Later on, Diana spots something that leaves her speechless, and Mack is left with so many questions.

Catch up on all the latest gossip in Ros na Rún this Sunday on TG4 in a double-feature omnibus.

Storm Isha: Sandbag locations and further road closures in Galway City

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January 20, 2024

galway daily weather weather warning for heavy rain in effect

Galway City Council has issued further updates on road closures, sandbags, and advice for motorists ahead of Storm Isha on Sunday.

The Promenade in Salthill will be closed from the roundabout at Seapoint along Seapoint Promenade as far as Galway Business School from 8:30am on Sunday until further notice.

Sandbags will be available at the following locations for people concerned about flooding in their properties.

Tourist Kiosk Salthill
Claddagh Hall
Fire Station Fr Burke Road
Spanish Arch
Docks beside the Pedestrian Crossing (St Nicholas Street)

This is in addition to measures announced earlier today including closing Toft, Salthill, Silverstrand, and Ballyloughane car parks.

Ballyloughane Beach Road has also been confined to local access only until further notice.

An Orange wind warning for Leinster, Cavan, Monaghan, Munster, Connacht will be in place from 5pm on Sunday until 2am on Monday.

Winds of more than 60-75km/h are forecast for Galway tomorrow according to Met Eireann, with gusts of more than 120km/h at times in the evening.

During this time there is a strong risk of coastal waves overtopping, dangerous driving conditions, fallen trees, and damage to power lines.

A Yellow wind warning for all of Ireland will be in force from 11am on Sunday until 4am on Monday.

The public is being asked to stay away from all coastal areas for the duration of the Met Éireann warnings.

Motorists should drive slowly to be careful of downed trees and power lines, as well as fallen or flying debris.

High sided vehicles, cyclists and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to dangerous winds during this time.

Saturday’s Lotto jackpot is the 10th highest in history

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January 20, 2024

Galway Daily news Galway player wins over €600k lotto prize.

This Saturday’s Lotto draw could see one lucky player become a multi-millionaire, with one of the largest prizes in Lotto history.

This weekend’s jackpot is rolling towards an estimated €13.5 million, making it the highest amount to be seen in the game in over two years.

A potential winner of tonight’s jackpot would join the top ten list of all-time highest ever Lotto jackpot winners taking the 10th spot. The next Lotto jackpot winner will also be the first of 2024.

A National Lottery spokesperson said, “Could a Lotto player in Ireland be just over 24 hours away from a life-changing jackpot win?”

“Excitement is growing nationwide with the jackpot heading towards an estimated €13.5 million.”

“Our players are sure to be dreaming about what they would do with such a massive amount.”

Last year, the National Lottery made 22 millionaires across the Lotto and Lotto Plus games with 12 players becoming jackpot winners throughout the year.

Council orders car parks closed ahead of Storm Isha hitting Galway City

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January 20, 2024

Galway Daily news Council orders car parks closed ahead of Storm Isha hitting Galway City

Galway City Council is closing coastal roads and car parks due to the risk of flooding from Storm Isha this weekend.

Met Eireann has this morning issued an Orange Wind Warning for Storm Isha which will be in place from 5pm on Sunday until 2am on Monday.

There will be very strong southwest winds with severe and damaging gusts during that time as Storm Isha hits.

The council has ordered Toft Car Park, Salthill Car Park, Silverstrand Car Park, and Ballyloughane Car Park closed until further notice.

In addition, Ballyloughane Road is being closed to all but local traffic due to the weather.

Salthill suffers from frequent flooding during storms, and there is a persistent problem with cars getting flooded out when people don’t remove them from these exposed car parks.

Romantic Getaways in the UAE for Couples

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Thomas O'Brien

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January 20, 2024

When looking for the most romantic getaways for couples, Dubai is one of the destinations you will not want to miss on your bucket list, thanks to its unique blend of unique attractions. From beautiful flowers in Dubai to iconic architecture, serene deserts and lavish getaways, the city offers a diverse palette of romantic experiences.

The scenic beauty sets the stage for unforgettable moments especially with floral arrangements featuring eustoma flowers. From strolls along the beach to a desert safari, or a dinner in a luxurious setting, Dubai caters to varied romantic preferences. The city’s ambience, infused with luxury and charm, transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary memories which make it a top choice for couples seeking a romantic escape.

Which are some of the most Romantic Getaways for Couples in the UAE?

While Dubai offers some of the most romantic getaways, romantic life in Dubai may seem complicated, especially considering that public displays of affection are frowned upon. Here are some of the best ideas for a romantic getaway for couples in the UAE to help you get started:

Anantara the Palm Dubai Resort

Anantara the Palm Dubai Resort is a romantic haven found along the iconic Palm Jumeirah. With rooms starting at $124, it boasts an outdoor pool, pool bar, room service, and a restaurant.

The ambience is pure luxury. It provides couples with a tranquil retreat.

Imagine gifting flowers in Dubai, unwinding by the pool, enjoying gourmet dinners, and relishing the stunning views of the city skyline. Anantara ensures a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement which makes it one of the most ideal spots for couples who are seeking a romantic escape.

Atlantis, the Palm

Atlantis, The Palm situated at the apex of Palm Jumeirah is a symbol of luxury and mythical allure. It is themed on the myth of Atlantis with distinct Arabian elements which offers an immersive experience.

The resort which is the first on the island captivates with its grandeur and elegance. Couples can explore the Aquaventure Waterpark, dine in world-class restaurants, and indulge in rejuvenating spa experiences.

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai

If you have already made arrangements for flower delivery in the UAE/Dubai and have a craving for a blend of luxury and vibrant energy, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai is an enticing choice. Flaunting an outdoor pool, room service, restaurant, fitness centre, and bar, Nikki Beach Resort and Bar caters to every romantic whim.

Thanks to the resort’s terraces, which set the stage for intimate moments, visitors enjoy breathtaking views. With a perfect mix of leisure and entertainment, Nikki Beach creates an atmosphere where couples can forge lasting memories against the backdrop of Dubai’s vibrant skyline.

The Palm Dubai

At the Palm Dubai, couples cannot only partake in water sports. They can also embark on desert adventures, savour romantic dinners, or simply unwind together.

The Palm Dubai offers an array of experiences to ensure that every couple finds something special. From serene walks along the beach to adrenaline-pumping activities, this destination caters to diverse romantic preferences which make it an ideal getaway for couples.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

For enthusiasts of grandeur, the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai is a true testament to luxury. This expansive hotel is adorned with beautiful artwork and provides a lavish backdrop for a romantic escape.

Couples can revel in the plush accommodations, exquisite dining options, and the sheer scale of opulence. The hotel’s ambience, marked by sophistication, elevates the romantic experience and makes it a suitable choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai

For a truly unique and intimate experience, Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa captures the essence of luxury in the heart of the desert. A 5-star haven, it offers unparalleled hospitality.

The resort’s secluded ambience and mesmerizing desert views create a magical setting for couples. Boasting private pool villas to spa treatments, Al Maha ensures an intimate and exclusive retreat. For couples who are seeking a blend of luxury and nature, Al Maha is a captivating choice for a romantic getaway in Dubai.

In Closing

Dubai offers a slew of options for couples seeking to soak into luxury and nature. When choosing an option though, you will want to consider prices to ensure that they fit your budget.

Status Orange weather warning issued for Storm Isha

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January 20, 2024

Galway daily news Galway Daily news Status Orange weather warning issued for Storm Isha

A Status Orange weather warning has been issued for tomorrow as Storm Isha is to hammer Ireland with gale force winds.

Almost all of Ireland has been issued with an Orange wind warning which will be in place from 5pm on Sunday until 2am on Monday.

There will be very strong southwest winds with severe and damaging gusts during that time as Storm Isha hits.

This will create very dangerous coastal and travelling conditions, with large coastal waves overtopping, fallen trees and downed power lines.

A status yellow wind warning will come into effect earlier, at 11am tomorrow, and remain in force until 4am Sunday.

A Gale Warning for all Irish coastal waters and the Irish Sea will also be in place on Sunday, with Southwest to west winds reaching gale force 8 or strong gale force 9.

Minister breaks ground on Dexcom facility in Athenry which will create 1,000 jobs

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January 20, 2024

Galway Daily news Minister breaks ground on Dexcom facility in Athenry which will create 1,000 jobs

Minister for Enterprise Simon Coveney broke ground on the massive new Dexcom medical devices being built outside Athenry on Friday.

The manufacturing facility, which was approved last year, will create 1,000 jobs in the area when complete and represents one of the biggest single private sector investments ever in the West of Ireland.

The 40,227sqm facility is being built on a 32.5ha IDA landbank which currently consists of fields but is zoned for Business & Technology use by the Athenry Local Area Plan.

When completed the massive facility will encompass warehousing, production areas, administration offices, and a restaurant for staff members.

“This investment from Dexcom is not only a huge vote of confidence in Athenry but in Ireland as a whole,” Minister Coveney said.

“We are turning the sod on Dexcom’s first production plant in Europe and taking the next important step in bringing 1000 jobs to Athenry over the next 5 years.”

“I want to thank Dexcom and congratulate all those in my department and the IDA who secured this investment.”

The 1,000 available jobs include support in finance and HR, as well as a variety of engineering roles, ranging from leadership to graduate positions.

Dexcom intends to build strong links with the local universities in Galway and nearby counties, particularly around engineering and quality assurance courses.

In an additional boost to the local economy, it is expected that for every job created by Dexcom, a further 1 – 1.7 jobs will be created indirectly

The new facility will have the capacity to produce millions of Dexcom rtCGM sensors each year, helping to improve the lives of people with diabetes in EMEA.

The creation of the Dexcom manufacturing facility will undoubtedly be a gamechanger for the West of Ireland,” said Barry Regan, Executive Vice President of Operations at Dexcom.

“This is a pivotal moment for Dexcom and we are confident it will have an immensely positive impact in Galway and the wider region too, not only in relation to job creation but also as we become part of and contribute to this community.”

“We’re already proud to be partnering with Connacht Rugby, and this is only the beginning.”

Dexcom has announced a 12-year partnership with Connacht Rugby this week, which includes renaming the iconic Sportsground Stadium.

Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland said, “The sod-turning event is an important moment in this facility – first announced last year – becoming a reality.”

“This important strategic investment by Dexcom, which is the first of its kind outside of the US, will have far-reaching economic and social benefits for Athenry, the West and indeed all of Ireland.”

“I wish continued success to Dexcom and assure the team of IDA Ireland’s continued support.”

Storm Isha to cause disruption as Met Éireann issues warning

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January 19, 2024

Met Éireann has issued a status yellow warning for Galway on Sunday ahead of Storm Isha’s arrival in Ireland.

The storm could cause significant coastal waves, difficult travelling conditions, and debris or loose objects being displaced.

The warning for Galway begins at 11am on Sunday and will remain in place until 6am on Monday.

Widespread heavy showers will gradually become more scattered on Sunday night as winds veer westerly. Lowest temperatures of 3 to 7 degrees are forecast.

The status yellow warning affects all counties in the Republic, while a status orange warning has been issued by the Met Office for the counties in the North for Sunday night.

Schools in Galway invited to enter 11th Eason Spelling Bee

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January 19, 2024

Galway Daily arts & culture Call to local writers for the Over the Edge Fiction Slam

Schools in Galway are being invited to register for the upcoming Eason Spelling Bee, which aims to help children develop their reading and literacy skills in a fun and creative way.

The competition, now in its 11th year, is part of an overall literacy and reading drive in the Republic to encourage and inspire children to develop their spelling and pronunciation skills.

Each registered school holds their own in-house spelling bee to determine which of their students will be put forward for the Eason Spelling Bee county finals.

Once 26 county champions have been chosen, the winners will move on to provincial finals where the top speller from each county will battle it out to compete in the grand final where the Eason Spelling Bee winner for 2024 will be chosen.

The overall winning school will receive a book library to the value of €7,500, while the finalists will receive a library worth €3,000.

The overall winner will win books or vouchers to the value of €500, and finalists (non-winners) will win books or vouchers worth €250. Each county heat winner will receive €50 worth of books or vouchers.

Group Head of Marketing at Eason, Brendan Corbett, said that they are thrilled to be entering into another year of the Eason Spelling Bee for 2024.

“We are absolutely delighted that we are able to provide children with an educational exercise that boosts their confidence, reading and spelling, while also being lots of fun,” he said.

“This year, we’re hoping to build on the success of previous years and encourage everyone to get out there and get behind their local bees.”

The winning school will receive a collection of books for their library to the value of €7,500 and the winner themselves will be awarded a goodie package full of books worth €500 and the prestigious title of the 2024 Eason Spelling Bee champion.

Register your school HERE to be in with a chance to be the Eason King or Queen Bee of 2024!

Public asked to call 999 if black car sighted as Gardaí concerned about driver’s safety

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January 19, 2024

Galway Daily news missing teen found safe

Gardaí are looking for information on the current whereabouts of a black Hyundai IX35 with the registration number EX15PVF as they have concerns for the health and welfare of the male driver.

They are appealing to the driver to make contact with his family or An Garda Síochána at any Garda station.

Members of the public with any information are asked not to approach the vehicle.

If they see the vehicle, they are asked to call 999/112 to report the sighting, or to contact any Garda station or the Garda Confidential Phone Line 1800 666 111.

The Sportsground to be renamed Dexcom Stadium in partnership deal

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January 19, 2024

Galway Daily rugby The Sportsground to be renamed Dexcom Stadium in partnership deal — Photo: INPHO/Connacht Rugby

The iconic Sportsground, home of Connacht Rugbt, is to be renamed Dexcom Stadium in a naming rights deal with medtech company.

The name change will take effect immediately, ahead of the next phase of the stadium redevelopment in March.

The naming rights deal is part of a 12 year partnership between Connacht Rugby and Dexcom, which comes as the company breaks ground on its new factory outside Athenry today.

Connacht Rugby are also excited to announce that construction on our new High-Performance Centre (HPC) and North Stand will both begin in the coming months.

Works on the HPC will begin in March with works on the North Stand following at the end of this current season.

The new Connacht Rugby HPC is expected to be completed by March 2025 and will provide all Connacht Rugby representative teams with world-class facilities to enable them to fulfil their potential and perform at the highest level.

Dexcom has broken ground today on a new 40,227sqm medical devices factory on the south-west outskirts of Athenry.

Dexcom expects to provide about 500 construction jobs while the facility is being built and up to 1,000 high-tech graduate and technician level positions once the site is running at full capacity.

When completed the massive facility will encompass warehousing, production areas, administration offices, and a restaurant for staff members.

UHG is the third most overcrowded hospital in the country today

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January 19, 2024

University Hospital Galway is the third most overcrowded in the country today, with nearly 60 patients on trolleys.

INMO data shows that there are 41 patients on trolleys in the emergency department at UHG today, and another 17 without beds in the wards.

At Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe there is just one patient admitted to the emergency department with no bed available.

Nationwide there are 507 people waiting on trolleys in Irish hospitals this morning according to the INMO Trolley/Ward Watch.

The worst affected hospital in the country is Letterkenny University Hospital (84), followed by UH Limerick (83), UHG (58), and the Mater (38).

Emergency Roadworks disrupting traffic between Oranmore and Athenry

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January 19, 2024

Traffic disruption is expected on the R446 outside Galway City today due to emergency roadworks taking place.

Galway County Council is carrying out emergency surface repairs on the R446 at Derrydonnell Beg today.

The works are scheduled to take place from 9am to 4pm on Friday, January 19.

In order to facilitate these works a temporary traffic light system and lane closures will be in place today.

As a consequence road users are advised expect delays, and people travelling in the area should allow themselves additional time for journeys.

City Council planning 84 unit social housing development in Knocknacarra

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January 19, 2024

Galway City Council has announced plans for a social housing development of 84 apartments and houses in Knocknacarra.

The council intends to build the social housing development on a vacant just off the Ballymoneen Road between the Drisín and Leas na Mara estates.

The development will comprise 25 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, and 10 three-bedroom apartments.

Of those, 16 of the two-bedroom apartments have been designed as age-friendly units. The other two-bedroom units and all three-bedroom units are of a Universal Design. There will also be 13 three-bedroom terraced houses.

Aside from the homes, the social housing development will also feature a community centre and plaza, a café, and a creche.

Public space in the estate will comprise a tiered, landscaped green area located in the centre of the site in an amphitheatre-style design.

The plans for the social housing development are currently available online or at City Hall.

Public submissions with respect to the proposed development dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area can be made until Friday, March 1.

Aoife Raftery set to create motorsport history in Galway

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January 19, 2024