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Weather warning for Galway with dangerous driving conditions expected

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

A status yellow weather warning for wind has been issued for Galway ahead of blustery conditions on Saturday.

Southwest winds will be strong and gusty at times, coupled with heavy rain and thundery showers.

The strong winds on Saturday could lead to surface flooding, wave overtopping and loose debris with objects being displaced.

Met Éireann is also warning road users that there may be difficult travelling conditions.

The warning was issued for Galway, Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Mayo, Waterford, and Wexford. It will last from 2am to 11pm on Saturday.

Over 800 swimmers brave the cold in Salthill in annual Christmas swim

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galway daily news christmas swim salthill
Martin O’Connor (Assistant CEO, COPE Galway), Lynia O’Brien (Fundraising Manager, COPE Galway), Mayor Eddie Hoare and Michael Smyth, (COPE Galway CEO right after he had done his Christmas Swim)

Galway’s festive spirit was on full display on Christmas morning as over 800 swimmers and dippers from the local community gathered in Salthill for the annual COPE Galway Christmas Swim.

The fearless swimmers plunged into the icy waters of Galway Bay dressed in festive t-shirts to raise crucial funds for COPE Galway Homeless, Domestic Abuse and Older People Services in Galway.

Now in it 34th year, the tradition brought together friends, families of all ages and generations – both familiar faces and new supporters.

Beyond fostering a sense of togetherness and fun, the COPE Galway Christmas Swim is also a community fundraising event.

The funds raised directly impact the lives of families, men and women in Galway affected by homelessness, domestic abuse and older people in need of social and nutritional support.

COPE Galway supported almost 3,000 men, women and children across Galway last year.

One passionate swimmer shared their motivation for taking the plunge, saying that while this has been a Christmas tradition in their family for many years, they also want to do something for people who are isolated or don’t feel safe this Christmas.

Another participant highlighted the festive atmosphere in Salthill on Christmas Day, emphasising the joy of supporting a good cause amid the holiday celebrations.

COPE Galway’s Fundraising Manager, Lynia O’Brien said they were ‘proud and humbled’ to see so many people come out on Christmas morning.

“As well as the registered and fundraising participants, we welcome their supporters and we thank the over 60 volunteers, our sponsors, the lifeguards and emergency teams who have given freely of their time and support,” she said.

“We are so grateful to them for going the extra mile to help make this a safe and enjoyable community event today.”

Lynia said that every day, their staff meet many men, women, children and families in the Galway community who rely on COPE Galway’s services over Christmas and throughout the year.

“Our professional teams work hard to support the resilient and unique people we work with, empowering them to create change in their own lives, and have some comfort during their time of crisis.

“We are deeply grateful for the incredible support and generosity of the community, which allows us to continue to provide these essential services for the people and by the people of Galway.”

Galway leads the pack in new Solar for Schools programme

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galway daily news Galway leads the pack in new Solar for Schools programme

Galway is leading the way with applications for the new Solar for Schools programme, which helps schools get solar PV panels installed.

Solar for Schools provides grant funding for schools to have up to 6kWp worth of solar PV installed on their rooftops, which equates to approximately 16 solar panels.

The programme was announced in November, with the first phase open to 1,600 schools in eleven counties.

So far, the county with the most expressions of interest applications for the scheme is Galway, followed by Donegal, Dublin City Council and Kerry.

There has been a strong uptake from schools, with 908 schools out of 1,600 submitting expressions of interest in the first phase of the scheme since the scheme opened on November 30.

Education Minister Norma Foley said, “There has been a really positive response in terms of applications for solar panels from our schools.”

“This offers an opportunity for schools to reduce their carbon emissions and to reduce their energy costs. So thanks to those who have applied and to those who are still considering applying, early in the new year is the time to do it.”

The solar PV panels in schools will also be connected to the electricity grid, so that the schools can obtain credits on their bills by powering other homes and businesses with clean energy when schools are closed at weekends and during school holidays.

Schools can expect to save anywhere from €1,200 to €1,600 on their electricity bills each year after taking into account the excess electricity they are selling.

Minister of State Ossian Smyth said, “It’s great that schools are benefitting from solar panels they are having installed – this means that they see their electricity bills drop whilst also doing their bit for the climate.”

“There is also an added educational aspect to this as each of these schools will have a display screen to let staff and students know how much power is being generated and teaching materials will be offered to schools so that students can learn about solar power.”

The first phase of the programme is open to schools in Clare, Donegal, Galway, Kerry, Kilkenny, Leitrim, Limerick, Offaly, Waterford and Wicklow and the Dublin City Council area of Dublin.

Schools will have to submit evidence of obtaining three quotations by March 15 and the target date for installing the solar panels is May 30.

The intention is to include a further eight counties in phase two in Q2 2024 and the remaining eight counties in Q4 2024.

It is intended that all eligible schools across the country will have the opportunity to apply to the scheme by the end of 2024.

Lease approved for modular homes for Ukrainian refugees in Ballinasloe

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Galway daily news Lease approved for modular homes for Ukrainian refugees in Ballinasloe

Galway County Council has approved a lease for the construction of modular homes for Ukrainian refugees in Ballinasloe.

The elected members of the county council this month unanimously approved the lease of 4.67 hectares of land by Galway County Council to the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.

This is for the construction of 64 modular rapid-build homes at Poolboy, Ballinasloe to accommodate Ukrainian beneficiaries of Temporary Protection.

The proposed two-bedroom units will each facilitate a maximum of two adults and two children. The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth will provide for the management and maintenance of the homes and site.

It is anticipated that the lease, which has been approved for a maximum period of three years, will be agreed and signed in January 2024.

The original proposal was for the delivery of 92 rapid-build modular units on the site. However, the plans were later reduced to a maximum of 64 units.

This decision was made following extensive engagement between the Local Authority, the Department, the Office of Public Works (OPW), Elected Members and local stakeholders.

The engagement process also featured a public information event in Ballinasloe and a site visit to a similar development in Tullamore, County Offaly.

Galway County Council has said it will work with the relevant agencies, including the Department of Education, the HSE and local stakeholders, to provide the additional supports required in Ballinasloe to facilitate the new homes and the additional demand placed on local services, and in extending a warm welcome to the families.

Road reopens but city council keeping car parks closed

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

Galway City Council crews remain on standby with multiple weather warnings in place for the county today.

Salthill Promenade from the roundabout at Seapoint as far as Galway Business School has reopened after being closed on Wednesday.

However, Toft and Silverstrand car parks remain closed to the public until further notice.

Two status yellow weather warnings are in place for Galway today.

A thunderstorm warning, which also cautions of a risk of hail and local flooding, will be in force until 9pm tonight.

A separate wind and rain weather warning will remain in force throughout the night until 6am Friday.

A combination of spring tides, large waves, amd strong winds may cause coastal flooding.

Additional warning for Hail & Thunderstorms

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Galway Daily weather Status Orange thunderstorm warning in effect for Galway

Mer Eireann has issued another weather warning for hail and thunderstorms in Galway today.

The status yellow warning has been issued for all of Connacht, Munster, and Donegal.

Scattered thunderstorms with lightning activity expected. Hail possible too, Met Eireann warns.

This may cause power outages, hazardous driving conditions, and localised flooding.

The westher warning will be in force until 9pm on Thursday.

This joins another weather warning for wind and rain also in force for Galway today.

Christmas Tree recycling service in Galway City

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Galway Daily news Free Christmas Tree recycling in Galway County

Galway City Council is offering a Christmas Tree recycling service for households cleaning up after the holidays from next week.

Galway City households can get of their old Christmas Trees at Hunters Depot, Lough Rusheen on the Barna Road and at Merlin Woods Depot in Doughiska.

The service will run for two weeks from:

  • Tuesday, January 2 – Saturday, January 6: 9am – 3pm 
  • Monday, January  8 & Tuesday, January 9:  9am – 3pm

Met Eireann issues another weather warning for Galway

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galway daily weather weather warning for heavy rain in effect

The run of poor weather this week isn’t over yet, as another yellow weather warning has been issued for Galway today.

The status yellow wind and rain warning is in place for much of the west and south coasts of Ireland throughout Thursday and into Friday morning.

Southwest to west winds will be strong and gusty at times Met Eireann has said.

A combination of spring tides, large waves and strong winds may result in some coastal flooding. Squally showers may lead to localised flooding.

The warning has been issued for Clare, Kerry, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, and Sligo.

The weather warning is already in force today, and will be in place until 6am on Friday.

Walk-in Vaccination Clinic in Galway City today

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Galway Daily news Over 44,000 vaccinations carried out at Galway Racecourse in 2022

A walk-in flu vaccination clinic is being held in Galway City today as the HSE is encouraging people to get themselves vaccinated.

The vaccination clinic will run from 1pm – 3:30pm at Galway City East Primary Care Centre, Merlin Business Park.

Children aged from 2 – 17 years old are now able to avail of free nasal spray flu vaccines.

Dr Aparna Keegan, Consultant in Public Health Medicine with the HSE’s National Immunisation Office says; “We encourage all parents to avail of these walk-in clinics as we expect flu numbers to rise over the coming weeks.”

“With increased socialisation at this time of year, the risk of contracting flu becomes greater.

“Children are more likely to contract and pass on flu and can become seriously ill as a result. Vaccinating children protects them – and their siblings, parents, grandparents and those who are vulnerable.”

Most children who get the flu have mild symptoms. But children and young people with long-term health conditions are at risk of serious complications from flu.

In some children, flu can lead to problems such as:

  • pneumonia
  • bronchitis
  • inflammation of the brain (encephalitis)
  • Children with these complications may need hospital treatment. Some may need intensive care.

In the past 10 years in Ireland, almost 5,000 children were admitted to hospital with complications of flu.

Almost 200 children had treatment in intensive carem and 40 children died as a result.

Strategies for Success in Live Casino Games

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We’re delving into the fantastic world of strategies designed to help you become a maestro at live casino games. Think of it as unlocking a treasure trove of secret codes or discovering those awesome moves that skyrocket your skills in your favorite games! Just like in your most thrilling quests where you discover hidden passages or uncover magical spells to level up, these strategies are like your secret map guiding you towards victory in live casino games. It’s all about unveiling these special tricks that make you stand out, much like mastering a tricky level in your treasured game. Learning these strategies is akin to becoming a skilled wizard or a cunning superhero—armed with wisdom and special powers to conquer the challenges that await in live casino adventures.

What are Live Casino Games?

Close your eyes and imagine stepping into a dazzling world where your most cherished game, whether it’s spinning wheels or playing card games, comes alive right on your computer screen. Now, envision this incredible scenario where you’re not just playing against a machine, but actual real-life people are there, dealing cards or spinning those wheels, just like the experts in a real casino! That’s the importance of live casino online real money —it’s like magically teleporting into a glamorous casino venue, but all the excitement, the thrill, and the real people are right there on your screen, creating an immersive experience that feels like you’re sitting in the heart of a bustling casino hub! It’s like having a front-row seat to the action, feeling the rush of excitement as if you’re physically there, but instead, it’s all happening in the comfort of your own space. This interactive and lifelike setting of a live casino brings the buzz and the energy of a real casino straight to your fingertips, creating an unparalleled gaming experience that’s both thrilling and captivating. 

Secret Tricks to Win Big

Picture this: just like uncovering a secret map that guides you through an exhilarating adventure game, strategies are your magical toolkit filled with special tricks and tips that can transform your gaming experience. Think of them as your treasure chest, brimming with secret power-ups and remarkable techniques that can skyrocket your skills! Take card games, for instance; mastering when to play which cards can create a huge difference in your gameplay—it’s like holding onto a secret key that unlocks a whole new level of success. These strategies act as your trusted allies, much like having a trusted sidekick in your favorite game who gives you expert advice, helping you navigate challenges and emerge victorious. They’re not just tricks; they’re your secret weapons that boost your confidence and abilities, making every move in your gaming adventure feel more strategic and rewarding!

Smart Money Moves

Guess what? Money matters! Just like when you save your allowance for something special, managing money in casino games is important too. It’s like using your coins wisely in a game to make sure you have more fun for a longer time!

Practice Makes Perfect

Ever heard the saying ‘practice makes perfect’? Well, it’s true for games too! The more you play, the better you get. It’s like practicing your favorite sport or instrument. The more you practice, the more you learn new moves and get better at it!

Know Your Game Inside Out

Knowing your game is super important! It’s like being an expert in your favorite subject at school. When you understand the game rules and how it works, you can make smarter decisions and have more fun playing!

Stay Cool and Have Fun

Lastly, don’t forget—games are meant to be fun! Just like playing with your friends, the most important thing is to have a blast. Winning is cool, but having fun is even cooler!

Wrapping Up Our Game Plan

So, my little gamers, mastering live casino games is like learning a secret recipe or becoming a superhero in your favorite game. With these strategies—knowing the game, using smart moves, practicing, and, most importantly, having a blast—you’ll become a gaming wizard in no time! Are you ready to start your gaming adventure? Let’s go have some fun and become masters of the game together!

Orange weather warning issued for Galway

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

Bad weather is set to continue this week with an Orange weather warning issued for Galway by Met Eireann.

The Status Orange wind warning will be in place from 6pm on Wednesday until 6am the following morning.

Over the course of the evening and night Galway will be hit by very heavy westerly winds, coupled with spring tides.

As a result of these winds, coastal flooding is likely Met Eireann has warned.

Met Eireann issues St. Stephen’s Day weather warning for Galway

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galway daily news Weather warning for heavy wind and rain to hit Galway

The weather in Galway is forecast to take a turn for the worse on St Stephen’s Day night, with a weather warning issued by Met Eireann.

Met Eireann has issued a Status Yellow rainfall warning for Clare, Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Galway, and Wexford.

Thundery and blustery rain is expected to hit the west and south coasts on Tuesday night, with the possibility of localised flooding.

The weather warning will be in place from 8pm on Tuesday until 6am the following morning.

Virtual Vaults: Exploring Digital Yuan’s Security Infrastructure

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Galway daily news

The introduction of the Digital Yuan by the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) signifies a significant leap in currency innovation, reflecting the growing dominance of digital transactions. Recognizing the critical need for ironclad security, the PBoC has meticulously architected a sophisticated security infrastructure to protect this sovereign digital currency. As part of this commitment to security, the PBoC has partnered with Yuan International, a leading cybersecurity firm specializing in financial technologies. This strategic collaboration further fortifies the protective measures enshrouding the Digital Yuan, establishing it as a secure pillar of China’s financial system. Learn more about the innovative security solutions provided by Yuan International at https://yuan-international.io.

The Birth of Digital Yuan: A Security-Centric Overview

The inauguration of the Digital Yuan by the People’s Bank of China marks a significant leap forward in the modernization of its monetary framework, with a staunch emphasis on security to combat the inherent perils of digital financial activities, such as fraud, cyber-attacks, and counterfeiting. This strategic focus on security is crucial in establishing a robust and reliable digital financial ecosystem, ensuring the currency’s resilience in the face of evolving digital challenges.

Under the Digital Hood: The Technology Behind the Digital Yuan

The Digital Yuan is engineered with a distinctive blend of technologies, distinguishing itself from decentralized cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin through a centralized ledger system tightly regulated by the People’s Bank of China (PBoC). This system is reinforced with sophisticated encryption techniques, rendering each unit of the Digital Yuan distinct, trackable, and secure from manipulation, thereby establishing a robust line of defense against unauthorized and fraudulent transactions.

The Fort Knox of Digital Currencies: Understanding the Security Protocols

The security architecture of the Digital Yuan is a fortress of modern technology, where advanced biometric checks and digital certifications converge with dynamic one-time passwords. This triad of safeguards functions as the gatekeeper for user access, ensuring that only legitimate transactions are processed.

 

To bolster this defense, cutting-edge anti-fraud algorithms constantly monitor transaction patterns. These vigilant sentinels of the Digital Yuan system work around the clock to detect and halt any anomalous behavior, thus preserving the integrity of each transaction and maintaining the currency’s impenetrable security stance.

 

The Wall and the Warriors: Cybersecurity Measures and Defense Mechanisms

The Digital Yuan’s defense mechanism is a dynamic construct, meticulously designed to stay ahead of evolving cyber risks. Orchestrated by the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) in collaboration with elite cybersecurity firms, this robust framework is characterized by continuous refinement through relentless testing, proactive threat surveillance, and swift response strategies. This proactive posture guarantees that the currency’s protective measures advance in parallel with the shifting landscape of digital security threats.

User Safeguards: How the Digital Yuan Protects Individual Users

The Digital Yuan ecosystem prioritizes user security with a stratified wallet architecture, allowing individuals to tailor their security settings to match transaction volume and regularity. Proactive educational initiatives further empower users, providing them with the critical knowledge to recognize and defend against potential security risks, ensuring their transactions within the Digital Yuan network remain secure and private.

Testing the Safes: Audits and Security Assessments

The Digital Yuan sets a high bar for security, regularly undergoing meticulous inspections by respected independent auditors to ensure its alignment with both local and international standards. This thorough vetting process examines the robustness of its security framework, while the People’s Bank of China champions transparency by disclosing audit findings and methodically adopting enhancements, thus reinforcing the Digital Yuan’s defenses in a landscape of evolving digital challenges.

Navigating the Global Vault: International Implications of Digital Yuan’s Security

The Digital Yuan’s security framework is crafted with an international vision, conforming to rigorous global standards to ensure transactional integrity across borders. With its advanced anti-money laundering protocols and meticulous traceability, the Digital Yuan not only fortifies transactional security but also sets a precedent for the future of global digital currency regulations. This pioneering approach may catalyze the formation of universal security benchmarks for digital currencies worldwide.

Conclusion

The Digital Yuan’s security infrastructure is a testament to China’s commitment to creating a secure digital currency. Engaging with the digital economy, entities facilitate the adoption of the Digital Yuan by offering a seamless experience for digital Yuan trading. As the currency continues to evolve, it will likely serve as a blueprint for future digital currencies around the world. The success of the Digital Yuan will largely depend on the resilience and adaptability of its security mechanisms in the face of rapidly advancing threats.

How Much Does A Daily Trip to Galway Cost?

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Galway Daily business

Are you planning a trip to Galway, the heart of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way? Budgeting for a trip can be exhausting, but worry not! With our insider info, you can know what prices to expect so you can easily budget and have an unforgettable experience. So, let’s discover how much a day in this vibrant city might cost you.

Getting There: All Aboard!

Before you start exploring the cobbled streets and charming pubs, you’ll need to get there. You can comfortably travel by train from Dublin to Galway for €32 return. Prefer the road? Hop on a bus with GoBus or Citylink for €25​​. This is a fraction of what you’d spend flying directly to Galway, with average worldwide flight costs to Dublin Airport ranging between €617 and €960 per person for economy​​. 

If you’re from the UK the cost of your travel will depend on your location. You can either choose to make it a road trip and drive through the country or hop on a train if you can’t drive, or you’re more eco-conscious. 

Daily Expenses: Eat, Sightsee, Repeat

The real fun in Galway is in its daily rhythm. Food, travel, and sightseeing for one person can range from $42 to $82 per day. 

Getting Around

Galway is a small town, so it’s a walker’s delight! But for longer distances, hop on a bus from Eyre Square for just €2.20 a ticket, or grab a daysaver ticket at €3.80 for unlimited rides. Taxis offer affordable fares too, but walking remains a top choice for soaking in the city’s ambience​​.

Activities

You can join a free walking tour with Tribe Tours, or if pubs are more your scene, their Tribes Pub Crawl is a steal at €15. The Galway City Museum and Spanish Arch are must-visits, and they’re free! Keep an eye out for summer art installations and festival events​​.

Food & Drink

Galway’s culinary scene is a treat! For budget-friendly bites, Gourmet Tart Co. offers coffee and pastries under €3. Craving something hearty? A pub meal averages around €15. Fine dining? Expect to spend at least €35 for a three-course meal, not including drinks. A pint of Guinness? Below €6. Cocktails and wine range from €7 to €11​​.

Budgeting Your Day

So, how much should you set aside for a day in Galway? A well-planned day could cost as little as €50. This includes basic food, drinks, and enjoying the city’s free entertainment. Planning to splurge a bit more? €100 should comfortably cover a day’s worth of meals and entertainment. This doesn’t take your trip to Galway into account.

Bingo Night in Galway

For a unique Galway experience, how about a night at the bingo hall? Seapoint Leisure in Salthill offers a vibrant bingo scene, perfect for a fun-filled evening– all the best bingo games can be found here. Unfortunately, specific cost details for the bingo hall aren’t readily available, but it’s safe to assume that a night at the bingo could be both affordable and entertaining.

Conclusion

Galway is a city of endless charm and excitement, fitting for every budget. Whether you’re pinching pennies or splurging, this Irish gem promises a memorable adventure without breaking the bank. Galway awaits with open arms and a promise of great craic!

Coast Guard, RNLI, and Water Safety Ireland appeal for swimmers to stay safe this Christmas

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Galway Daily news Coast Guard, RNLI, and Water Safety Ireland appeal for swimmers to stay safe this Christmas

The Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and the RNLI are urging people to stay safe if out swimming this Christmas period.

The increase in popularity of festive dips and open water swimming will see a lot of people taking to the water over the next few weeks. Many people will also avail of the opportunity to participate in coastal walks and hikes.

The three maritime organisations are asking people to check that they have the right information to safely enjoy these activities and that they know what to do in the event of an emergency.

For those taking part in winter dips and swims the advice is:

  • Never swim alone.
  • Ensure that somebody ashore is monitoring your activity.
  • Acclimatise slowly.
  • Stay within your depth.
  • Always be seen.
  • Organisers of Christmas Day or New Year swims are advised to have suitably trained personnel in attendance and to appoint a Safety Officer.

Coast Guard Operations manager Gerard O’Flynn commented, “Please plan your activity, whether it be on the water or along the coast and only swim or walk in areas with which you are familiar.”

“Be mindful that less busy walkways may have suffered erosion since the summertime. Always carry a means of communication, such as VHF radio or a personal locator beacon especially if going afloat. PLBs attached to a lifejacket are proven to be lifesavers”.

Water-based activities at this or any time of year are not limited to swimming as the popularity of kayaking, canoeing, boating, and paddle-boarding remains high.

The safety advice for these activities includes:

  • Always have a means for calling for help and make sure you can access it when you are out on the water.
  • Tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to return.
  • Wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid.
  • Always check the weather forecast and sea conditions before you set off.
  • If you’re exploring somewhere new, seek knowledge from experienced practitioners in the area.

Water Safety Ireland’s Deputy CEO Roger Sweeney said, “A full moon during Christmas week (Dec 27th) will heighten the risks for walkers and swimmers as the resulting higher high tides will make our coastline more precarious.”

“Stay away from the water’s edge on family walks and swimmers should watch out for stronger rip currents. Stranding will also be a risk for many walkers as the lower low tides caused by the full moon will expose even greater areas of the coastline.”

“Children are often tempted to explore these sandbanks but risk being surrounded by an incoming tide. Parents and guardians should provide constant undistracted adult supervision of their children at all times.”

RNLI Water Safety Lead Linda Gene Byrne added, “This time of year sees a huge increase in people doing seasonal swims and dips, particularly for charity.”

“We would urge people when they decide to take to the water, to make time to ensure they are doing it safely and with the correct knowledge and equipment.”

“That time taken could save a life or another person’s life. If you need to call for help, everything that you have done to keep afloat could make all the difference.”

Gardaí continue to investigate Rosscahill arson attack

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galway daily news roscahill fire

Gardaí are continuing to investigate an incident of suspected arson in Rosscahill last Saturday, 16 December.

The incident happened Ross Lake Hotel just hours after protests were held opposing plans to house international protection applicants there.

The fire broke out at around 11.35pm, and there was nobody inside the building when the attack occurred.

A technical and forensic examination of the scene has been completed and enquires are ongoing.

The investigation team is appealing for anyone who may have information regarding this incident to contact them.

In particular, members of the community in the Roscahill, Outhterard and surrounding areas who may be able to assist Gardaí is asked to come forward.

Gardaí can be contacted at Clifden Garda Station 095 22500 the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

People in Galway urged to know their healthcare options this Christmas

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Galway Daily news People in Galway urged to know their healthcare options for Bank Holiday

People in Galway are being urged to consider their healthcare options over the Christmas period to avoid long waits.

The Saolta Group is reminding people of the Westdoc out-of-hours GP service in order to avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency department.

Tony Canavan, CEO of Saolta University Health Care Group said, “This time of year is always extremely busy in our hospitals but we have additional resources and plans in place to deal with an increase in demand.”

“Our EDs are open 24/7 for emergency care; I’d remind the public that EDs are for people with a serious injury or life-threatening emergency.”

“People who come to the hospital Emergency Department with less urgent or less acute needs will be waiting a long time to be seen, and those people should really consider all other options which the HSE has in place for non-routine healthcare.”

Westdoc can be reached on 0818 360 000 from 6pm on Friday, December 22 to 9am on Wednesday, December 27.

Westdoc will operate from 6pm to 9am from Wednesday, December 27 to 9am Friday, December 29 as normal.

Along with out of hours GP services, the Roscommon Injury Unit is also open from 8am to 8pm every day, including Christmas Day.

“I’m sorry that anyone has to wait a long wait time in our hospitals and know that this is extremely difficult for patients and their families.”

“We are working hard to move patients through our Emergency Departments as quickly as possible and we remain committed to ensuring that patient care and comfort is a priority, even when some waiting is unavoidable,” he added.

Dr Aine Mc Namara, Director of HSE Public Health West / North West added, “We are seeing very high levels of respiratory viruses including flu, COVID-19 and RSV circulating in the community.”

“Infection with these viruses can be serious and can also lead to bacterial infections. While spending time with family and friends, it is important that if you are feeling unwell to avoid meeting those who are vulnerable to protect them from illness.”

“Keeping up to date with your vaccines is the most important thing you can do to avoid serious flu and COVID-19 illness.”

Galway-based entrepreneur wins Outstanding Contribution to Medtech Award

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Ibec Medtech Picture Conor McCabe Photography.

At Medtech Rising 2023, Paul Gilson was announced as this year’s winner of the Outstanding Contribution to Medtech Award.

Medtech Rising was co-hosted by Ibec’s Irish Medtech Association, Enterprise Ireland, and IDA Ireland, in The Galmont Hotel, Galway earlier this month.

Paul Gilson is a successful serial entrepreneur who’s raised more than €150 million, and co-founded numerous businesses in Galway namely, Novate Medical, Veryan Medical, and MedNova, and he served as Chair of Embo Medical.

His passion for innovation and ability to help companies deliver the latest medtech to improve lives has made him both a respected, and valued member of the Irish Medtech Community.

Dr Eoghan Ó Faoláin, Irish Medtech Association, Director, said, “The Outstanding Contribution to Medtech Award recognises an individual who has made a significant contribution to the development, growth, and success of the medtech sector in Ireland.”

“The recipient of this coveted award is selected by the Irish Medtech Association Board, with the support of Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland, to acknowledge a person’s contribution to the sector as a whole, rather than to any one company or organisation.”

“We are proud to recognise Paul Gilson as an innovator, entrepreneur, and leader,” Dr Ó Faoláin said.

Paul currently works with the University of Galway BioInnovate program as an in-house mentor and lectures on a number of relevant topics.

He is a named inventor on more than 60 granted US patents and has been published in several peer-reviewed journals.

Paul has extensive experience in licensing and IP portfolio management and is the holder of more than 60 US patents for biomaterials and cardiovascular products.

Speeding driver caught doing almost 150km/h in Galway on National Slow Down Day

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Galway Daily news Increase in use of speed cameras on roads

A driver in Galway was caught doing almost 150km/h in one of the worst offences detected so far in Gardaí’s National Slow Down Day.

An Garda Síochána is carrying out a 24-hour traffic operation before Christmas to detect speeding and encourage safer driving.

In the first five hours of National Slow Down Day, GoSafe checked the speed of 28,569 vehicles.

From that, they have detected 120 vehicles travelling in excess of the applicable speed limit.

One of the worst offenders so far was a driver doing 149km/h in a 120km/h zone on the M6 at Carnmore.

An Garda Síochána continues to appeal to drivers to comply with speed limits in order to reduce the number of speed related collisions, save lives and reduce injuries on our roads.

Appeal lodged over plans 227 apartments in Galway City

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Planning refused for large scale apartment complex in Knocknacarra

A planning appeal has been lodged against the city council for refusing permission for 227 apartments in Rahoon.

Galway City Council rejected an application by Glenveagh Living for seven apartment blocks on a site at Gort na Bró, Rahoon, next to Gateway Retail Park.

That decision has now been appealed to An Bord Pleanála, which is due to rule on the case by April 10, 2024.

The residential development also included 1,009.5m² of commercial space at the ground floor level of the blocks, which range from three to five storeys in height, a community facility, and a childcare facility with an external play area.

Galway City Council rejected the plans due to concerns about overshadowing, and the development’s relationship with the planned N6 Galway City Ring Road.

The council said that the plans were in contravention of policy regarding developments on or affecting national roads due to its proximity to the proposed N6 Galway City Ring Road route.

Other works involved in the project would involve the realignment of the road between Gort na Bró and Gateway Retail Park as well as the provision of private and communal open spaces.Appeal 

A major element of the plans was the creation of a Civic Square on the western edge of the site to cater for the wider Knocknacarra District Centre.

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