Dip at Dawn to celebrate winter solstice for Galway Simon Community

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December 4, 2023

Galway Daily news overnight water outages

Uisce Éireann is working to restore normal water supply to homes and businesses in Gort following an operational issue at the water treatment plant as a result of variations in the raw water supply.

As a result, water supply to Gort and surrounding areas is impacted, and customers may experience low pressure.

Crews are on the ground working to restore normal water supply as quickly as possible to impacted customers.

Justin Doran, Operations Lead for Uisce Éireann, said that they understand the inconvenience this issue is causing and are working to restore normal water supply as quickly as possible.

“We are also working to identify a significant leak in the town. We are asking the public to do what they can to conserve water during this time by turning off taps and checking for leaks in outside taps or unoccupied premises,” he said.

“If anyone notices a leak in the public network they should report it to Uisce Éireann via our website or by calling 1800 278 278.”

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communications from us for planned and unplanned outages lasting more than four hours.

Met Eireann issues fresh weather warning for Galway

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December 4, 2023

Galway Daily weather Met Eireann issues fresh weather warning for Galway

Met Eireann has issued another weather warning with more freezing temperatures and ice expected in the west of Ireland on Monday night.

The Status Yellow Low Temperature/Ice warning has been issued for all of Connacht, as well as counties Longford, Offaly, and Westmeath.

Sub-zero temperatures are forecast by Met Eireann across Galway tonight, dropping as low as -4 degrees in some inland areas.

Widespread frost and ice are expected, creating hazards such as slippery conditions for walking, dangerous travelling conditions, and welfare hazards for animals.

The weather warning will be in force from 6pm on Monday evening until 10am on Tuesday morning.

It has been a brisk few days as an Arctic airflow has brought sub-zero temperatures the past few nights, but things are starting to look up.

The cold snap will come to an end in the first half of the week according to Met Eireann, with temperatures to rise again from Wednesday on.

This will, however, be accompanied by a return of heavy rain to Galway for most of the week.

An Bord Pleanála green light’s Salthill housing development

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December 4, 2023

Galway Daily news An Bord Pleanála green light's Salthill housing development

An Bord Pleanála has granted planning permission for a residential development of 22 houses in Salthill.

K King Construction has received the green light for six blocks of terraced houses, and one detached house, at Rockbarton Court in Salthill.

The bord granted approval over strong local opposition, rejecting four third-party appeals by local residents.

Planning permission for the housing development was granted by An Bord Pleanála with a total of 28 revised conditions attached.

All parking spaces must be fitted with ducting for electric vehicle charging points, and the bord stipulated that they may not be sold or leased to anyone not resident in the estate.

The bord also ordered that all of these homes must, in the first instance, be sold to individuals, not corporate entities.

The infill site is currently an undeveloped field area on the south side of the Rockbarton Court road, surrounded by existing developments.

The estate will have 26 parking spaces after the city council said that the originally planned 31 spaces were excessive.

The public open space for the housing estate was also redesigned after planners raised doubts about the level and quality of space provided in the original plans.

Man vs Ocean – RTÉ documentary follows Damian Browne and Fergus Farrell’s epic Atlantic voyage

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December 4, 2023

Man vs Ocean - RTÉ documentary follows Damian Browne and Fergus Farrell's epic Atlantic voyage

Man vs Ocean a new documentary airing on RTÉ this week chronicles two men’s efforts to break world records rowing across the mighty Atlantic.

The documentary follows Damian and Fergus preparing for their epic voyage as they aim to set a new world record for the fastest unsupported Atlantic row, from New York to Galway.

Their extraordinary journey will not only test their bodies but also push the boundaries of their relationships with each other, their families, and themselves.

Setting out on this adventure, Damian Browne commented, “More people have summited Mount Everest or been into space than rowed an ocean.”

“Our goal is to row from New York 5,000km across the unforgiving North Atlantic, unsupported to our hometown Galway by manpower alone. The record is 55 days 13 hours. Our goal is to break that world record…”

The physical obstacles are only one element of their journey. Damian and Fergus are forced to face their own personal obstacles as they push their bodies and minds to the limits.

“The minute you get comfortable, the Atlantic just knocks you over… and then you have the internal battle and the psychological demands of just doing one thing, seeing one picture for two months and doing something very physical within that is taxing…that stuff builds up over time,” Damian said.

Damian aims to use the journey to reflect on his obsession with thrill seeking. Meanwhile, Fergus wrestles with self-doubt and questions whether he is ready for this mammoth challenge as, just a few short years ago he was paralysed by a traumatic spinal injury, but learnt to walk again against the odds.

Fergus said of his injury, “My first thought was I’m never going to be able to walk my daughter down the aisle or play soccer out the back with my son”.

“From that moment I concentrated on my big right toe, and I visualised it every moment of every day… The light in the tunnel happened 21 days after the accident – I moved my big right toe, and that was it, that was my shining light.”

However, when Fergus has to be evacuated 12 days into the excursion, Damian quickly realises that his journey is only just beginning.

What started out as two friends attempting to break a 125-year-old world record hurtles into the ultimate test of human endurance.

While out on the ocean, Damian is forced to reevaluate his relationship with his friends, his family and ultimately, his relationship with himself.

Man vs Ocean will air on Wednesday 6th December, 9:35pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.

Mayoral Reception honours Connacht & Ireland Rugby Stars

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December 4, 2023

Mayoral Reception honours Connacht & Ireland Rugby Stars

A Mayoral Reception was held last week to honour Connacht & Ireland rugby players Bundee Aki, Finlay Bealham and Mack Hansen.

The three players were celebrated for their standout efforts in the Six Nations, Rugby World Cup, and Connacht.

Cllr. Eddie Hoare, Mayor of the City of Galway, said: “Every try, every point, every ruck, every line out, every throw in – whether we were in Knocknacarra or Westside or Mervue or France – we were there with you at the Rugby World Cup.”

“All of us are here today to acknowledge you – your sporting prowess, your dedication, your sportsmanship – that is an example to any young player in any sport. There’s no doubt you have inspired a new generation of rugby players in Galway and in Ireland.”

We have a number of clubs in the city with boys and girls taking to the pitch every day of the week, inspired by what you did at the World Cup, the Six Nations, and in Connacht Rugby.”

“Your energy, your physicality, your prowess – the preparation you put in – are an example to them…We share our gratitude and thanks to your families, friends and teams at home, who set you on the course to be here with us today in Ireland.”

The Mayor recognised the essential work of Connacht Rugby in bringing world-class players to the province. Galway City Council is delighted to sponsor Connacht Rugby through the Marketing Fund.

The Fund supports events and activities that drive footfall into our City Centre during the tourism off season. Connacht Rugby plays a huge contribution to the economic, sporting and social activity in Galway City.

Mayor Hoare closed the event by wishing all in Connacht Rugby the best for the remainder of their 2023 Fixtures, and in 2024.

Generational renewal critical for future of farming

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December 3, 2023

Call for active farmland to be exempted from Residential Zoned Land Tax

Generational renewal is critical for the future of Irish agriculture, Sinn Féin’s Louis O’Hara has said.

He was speaking after a recent visit to Athenry Mart alongside Sinn Féin’s finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty, where many farmers they spoke to feared for the future of Irish farming, particularly given the lack of young people entering the sector.

Louis O’Hara said that generational renewal is key for the social, economic and environmental sustainability of rural areas, and for the future of agriculture.

“The fact that one in three Irish farmers are over the age of 65 highlights how big a threat this is to rural Ireland,” he said.

“A huge issue which must be addressed is land-grabbing by corporate entities, who are locking young people out of farming and rural areas.

“If this is allowed to continue, we will see the price of land rocket further, see further corporatisation and unsustainable industrial intensification of agriculture and forestry, and family farms disappearing.”

O’Hara said the EU and the Government need to explore all options on the table to give priority to family farmers as well as new and young farmers to ease access to land.

“More state support is needed to ensure land mobility to nurture generational renewal.

“It is critical to the future of Irish agriculture and is the very least we can do to guarantee a future for young farmers.”

Simple steps to winter-proof your home to prevent water issues

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December 3, 2023

With Christmas approaching and temperatures remaining low, Uisce Éireann has issued some simple advice for households to prevent issues with their water during cold weather.

The easy tips will help prevent freezing pipes, leaks, and damaged heating systems, while also helping to protect precious water supplies.

By following these simple steps, people can save time, money and stress, and focus on the things that really matter this festive season.

“Christmas is a time for joy and celebration, and the last thing anyone wants is to deal with leaks and water emergencies,” said Margaret Attridge, spokesperson for Uisce Éireann.

“That’s why we’re urging homeowners to take action now and winterproof their homes.”

To help homeowners in their winterproofing efforts, Uisce Éireann is launching a social media campaign and a dedicated Winterproofing webpage.

Here customers can find comprehensive advice and practical tips to prevent leaks, conserve water, and make the most of their heating systems during the colder months. Tips include:

Insulate water tanks and pipes: Exposed pipes and tanks are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Insulating them with lagging material can help prevent heat loss and keep pipes from freezing
Service your boiler: A well-maintained boiler is essential for efficient heating and can help reduce energy bills. Uisce Éireann recommends having your boiler serviced regularly by an accredited plumber
Fix dripping taps: We recommend you always fix any dripping taps but pay particular attention to external dripping taps in winter as water from them can freeze on the ground and can cause people to slip and injure themselves.
Check your inside stop valve: The inside stop valve is the main isolation valve for your water supply. It’s important to make sure you can easily locate and operate the stop valve in case of a leak
Minimise draughts: Cold air from outside can cause pipes to freeze inside. Draught-proof your home by sealing gaps around windows and doors.

In addition to these measures, Uisce Éireann is encouraging both the public and businesses to take responsibility for their water usage and contribute to keeping demand at sustainable levels.

Simple actions like checking premises for leaks, reporting leaks in the public network, and being mindful of water use in businesses can make a big difference.

“It’s not only about saving money and preventing damages at home, but also about ensuring a sustainable water supply for everyone in our community,” Margaret Attridge added.

“We know that the demand for water tends to increase significantly as we get closer to Christmas, so by following these simple steps homeowners and businesses can really make a difference and help ensure the taps keep flowing for all.”

Funding announced for 7 Galway sports clubs

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December 3, 2023

Galway daily sport Moycullen GAA cancels all activities in response to COVID-19 cases

Seven sports clubs in Co. Galway have been successful in securing government funding announced by Minister Heather Humphreys this weekend.

Almost €5 million was announced for 113 clubs in rural communities across the country.

Portumna, Beagh, and St. Brendans GAA club all secured €50,000 as part of the ‘Our Rural Future’ plan.

East Galway United Community Development Group and Tynagh Abbey Duniry Hurling Club will also receive €50,000, while €45,000 was allocated to Killimor GAA club and €43,184 to Tommy Larkins, Woodford.

Minister Humphreys said that the funding is targeted specifically at supporting clubs in rural communities, and that it is unsurprising that the vast majority of successful projects are from local GAA clubs.

“The GAA is at the heart of rural parishes across the country, instilling a strong sense of pride of place, community and belonging in young and old,” she said.

“While many of the successful projects are focused on improving playing and training facilities, I also want to improve the experience for local supporters and spectators.

“For this reason, I put a particular focus on the upgrade of Spectator Stands so that further seating and shelter can be provided to ensure that older people can enjoy games in comfort.

“Similarly, some projects focus on upgrading local clubhouses and improving access for people with disabilities and mobility issues.”

Best Live Casinos in Ireland

By

Thomas O'Brien

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December 3, 2023

Use our experts’ detailed guide to find the best live casino sites in Ireland. We’ll explain how we rank them, what live dealer casinos should offer, and what you need to look out for and expect. As well as how to register at one of the top live casino sites for Irish players and play with a valuable bonus.

Once our experts finished their research, they discovered that Nine Casino was the best live casino in Ireland.

18+ Gambling Can Be Addictive. Please Play Responsibly. BeGambleAware GamStop Gambling Commission

List of the Best Live Casino Sites

Our team of experts take pride and responsibility in what they do, so they ensure that each of the casinos they recommend are some of the very best. Below is their list of the top live casino sites in Ireland, which they decided on using our key criteria.

1. Nine Casino

Expert Rating: 4.9/5

Our favourite casino available for players in Ireland is Nine Casino. Nine hasn’t been on the market for very long, launching in late 2020, but we’re already highly impressed with its wide variety of games, all from some of the best developers on the market. What sets it apart is the collection of original games, most of which are unique types you don’t expect to find at a casino, like Mines and Plinko. It even features a few titles that are more reminiscent of regular video games than casino titles. Thanks to this, it earns the top spot on our list!

Pros	Cons
Large collection of games, including originals	Payment methods change between regions
24/7 live chat customer support
Supports multiple currencies on one account

2. bet365 Casino

Expert Rating: 4.8/5

bet365 is a brand that hardly needs an introduction. It has decades of experience and a reputation to match, offering a plethora of gambling services across its site, including casino games, sports betting, poker rooms and even bingo. This kind of comprehensive package is invaluable for users who want to keep all of their gambling in one place. Needless to say, each of these services is top-tier and will cater to any possible user, so don’t miss out!

Pros	Cons
Excellent collection of games	Long verification process
Dedicated mobile apps on iOS and Android
Good quality encryption security

3. BoyleSports Casino

Expert Rating: 4.8/5

BoyleSports is another of those exciting websites that host a variety of gambling activities all in one place. In addition to its expansive online casino, BoyleSports also offers sports betting, live casino, bingo, poker and lottery features. We were also impressed with just how many progressive jackpots BoyleSports had, with so many options of where to try your luck on those giant pots. And if you happen to get lucky, withdrawing your winnings is easy with the range of payment options, all of which are trustworthy and secured with encryption technology.

Pros	Cons
Dedicated mobile apps	Despite the variety, the sportsbook is the focus
Also hosts sportsbook, poker and bingo
Customer support on live chat and telephone

4. Jackpot City Casino

Expert Rating: 4.8/5

Jackpot City Casino is one of the most consistent online casinos on the market. It has decades of experience under its belt, was established in 1998, and has provided engaging and reliable service ever since. Jackpot City hosts hundreds of games from top developers like Games Global, Gameburger Studios and Pragmatic Play. Even better, all these games are mobile optimised, so you can take your play on the go with Jackpot City’s mobile apps, allowing for the optimum experience.

Pros	Cons
300+ high-quality games	Do not offer speciality games
Strong licensing and eCOGRA-approved
Excellent mobile compatibility with apps

5. 888 Casino

Expert Rating: 4.7/5

The next online casino we’re recommending to you is 888 Casino. This is another casino with an excellent reputation and a stellar service to back it up. 888 has a huge library of games, boasting over 1100 from top developers like NetEnt, Playtech and Red Tiger — and even a selection of original titles. It offers this alongside top-tier sportsbook and poker room sites for a comprehensive gambling experience. 888 Casino is an all-round solid gambling service that will satisfy any interested user.

Pros	Cons
1100+ titles, including originals	Live chat is limited to VIP players
Rewarding VIP scheme
Excellent website security

6. William Hill Casino

Expert Rating: 4.7/5

When it comes to online casinos with experience to boast, none come close to William Hill’s history in the gambling industry. William Hill has been in the business of gambling since 1934, and while the online casino has only been around since 2000, you know this is a company that knows exactly what gamblers want. William Hill has an industry-defining sportsbook alongside its fantastic online casino, which is propped up by its generous bonuses. William Hill offers more than just a welcome offer, with regular promotions for existing customers, including daily free spins and bonus drops.

Pros	Cons
Experienced and well-trusted casino	Focus on the sportsbook over the casino
Regular promotional offers
Large collection of games

7. Snatch Casino

Expert Rating: 4.7/5

Snatch Casino launched in 2021 and has since impressed players, new and old, with its great offerings of top casino games. Players can enjoy all of the classic titles such as Blackjack, Roulette, Video Poker, Baccarat, Craps and more. It also offers its services in different languages, which really impressed our experts. This casino accepts one of the biggest ranges of trusted and recognised payment methods too, such as Skrill, Visa, Mastercard, Trustly, and Klarna and has recently started accepting crypto payments such as Ethereum.

Pros	Cons
Great choice of payment methods	Absence of no deposit bonuses
Top gaming library
Plenty of promotions and bonuses

8. LeoVegas Casino

Expert Rating: 4.7/5

A site recognised for providing some of the best desktop and mobile gaming experiences is LeoVegas Casino. Powered by nine different gaming platforms such as Netent, Microgaming and more, there are top-quality games for every kind of player, whether your preference is slot games, table games, video poker or live casino games, whether you are new to online casinos or experienced. Its instant access, no matter what device is your preference, is just one of its many stand-out features.

Pros	Cons
Multi award-winning casino	Limited withdrawal options
Comprehensive gaming library
Mobile friendly

9. BetVictor Casino

Expert Rating: 4.6/5

Featuring a great gaming library full of some of the most popular and traditional titles, BetVictor Casino offers players a fantastic gaming experience from start to finish. With a simple sign-up process, fantastic welcome offers to claim, smooth and seamless gameplay, and plenty of banking options, players will not be disappointed in choosing to play at BetVictor. It features its own dedicated mobile app too, for players to download to their iOS and Android devices; gaming can be taken on the go, picking up right where you left off.

Pros	Cons
Mobile app	No cashback
Huge selection of games
24/7 live chat support

10. Betway Casino

Expert Rating: 4.6/5

Betway Casino has over 500 incredible games for players. Whether it’s traditional table games or new and exciting slot titles, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With games from top software providers such as Microgaming, players can expect top-quality gameplay with stunning graphics and seamless transitions throughout their time playing at the site. There is also a mobile app available to download to smartphone devices, allowing customers to take their gaming on the go wherever they are.

Pros	Cons
Top-of-the-range Microgaming software	Promotions expire quickly
Wide range of slot and table games
Great range of promotions and offers

11. iWild Casino

Expert Rating: 4.6/5

Finally, we have iWild Casino. Established in 2021, this online casino ranks highly among players on the site. Earning itself a strong reputation in the industry, it won an award for Best New Casino in 2021, encouraging more and more online casino enthusiasts to give the platform a try. The site supports a great range of trusted payment methods and accepts cryptocurrency, too. Hosting over 6000 games for players to get stuck into, it is no surprise that iWild Casino made it onto our list.

Pros	Cons
Extensive gaming library	Low withdrawal limits
Range of accepted payment methods
Top customer support

How Our Experts Rank Live Casinos in Ireland

We test all Irish live online casino sites in our database using the same transparent criteria that inspect the game options and their creators, bonuses, payment methods, and support systems.

If you are looking for the best online casinos in Ireland right now, check out our dedicated review.

Live Casino Game Library

Before we check anything else at a live online casino, we dive deep into its library. Our team only recommends iGaming brands with extensive live casino game libraries that have collaborated with high-quality software providers, such as Evolution, NetEnt, and Playtech. Some popular games you expect to find at top live casinos are:

Lightning Roulette
Evolution Live Blackjack
Monopoly Live

We prefer live gaming hubs with a separate Live Casino section with multiple subcategories, including Roulette, Baccarat, Blackjack, Poker, and Live Shows. Additional info on the thumbnails about the number of empty seats and the minimum/maximum betting limits is a plus.

Bonuses and Promotions

It’s not uncommon for a live casino online to feature only bonuses for regular casino games. That’s why we ensure to filter out all of the operators that have never offered a live casino bonus. If you decide to choose one of our Irish Casino recommendations, you will find the most popular promotions, including:

Deposit Matches.
Cashback Offers.
Free Chips.
Live Dealer Bonuses.

We also check the T&C to ensure that these casinos include only offers that have fair and transparent terms and conditions, which include industry-average wagering requirements and acceptable minimum deposit requirements.

Software Providers

An online live casino is as good as its list of software providers. In fact, if you have any experience with online games, you’ll know how important it is to have a reliable and experienced provider. This is especially true for live games, given that these are streamed in real-time, which requires modern technology and reliable connection. Some of the top software providers we expect to find are:

Evolution Gaming
Playtech
NetEnt

These three brands offer reliability, friendly dealers with tables available 24/7, betting ranges that are a fit for anyone’s pocket, and up-to-date gaming features.

Payment Methods

Quality live casino sites must provide a wide range of deposit and withdrawal options that you can use to play games and claim bonuses on the site. Our experts test the cashier section in two ways: first, by trying out the options. Fortunately, the process and speed of each method don’t tend to change; the things our team look out for are the processing times imposed by the casino. The other way they learn more about these methods is by checking our customer reviews. Below are the types of payment methods players may find;

e-wallets
Debit cards
Prepaid vouchers
Mobile payment systems
Cryptocurrencies

Our team also checks the minimum and maximum deposit and withdrawal limits and whether there are any fees.

Customer Support Options

Nothing is more reassuring than knowing that the casino has knowledgeable, friendly, and reliable agents available to help with whichever gaming issue you may encounter during your sessions. That’s the main reason why we ensure you can take advantage of a variety of top-quality customer support options at the casinos our team suggest, such as:

Live Chat
Email
Phone Support
FAQ

The live chat is our number 1 priority – we look for support systems available 24/7 and run by professional agents rather than bots. Phone support is a great addition but not a must, while email replies should arrive within 24 hours, preferably sooner. An extensive FAQ section is a plus and rather helpful for newbies.

Alternative Games

Even when live dealer games are your favourite, you should still be able to explore a varied gaming library. Besides quality software providers and acceptable minimum and maximum bets, our team focused on finding top-quality slots, bingo games, table games and scratchcards.

You can rest assured you’ll be able to play a variety of reel machines, from 3D slots to Megaways to progressives and plenty of RNG table games. Varying themes, bonus features, RTPs, and volatilities create a quality gaming lobby. Casino sites with game filters and demo options are our preferred options.

What are Live Casino Games?

Live dealer games are table, card, wheel games, or game shows streamed in real time. A professional dealer is in a studio, where they lead the game and do whatever the game is about, much like in a brick-and-mortar casino. You are on the other side of the screen, able to watch the game from multiple angles, thanks to the cameras at the online casino studio. The requisite used for the game is properly marked to show on your computerised screen just as it happens.

The best thing about live casino games is that they allow you to feel the thrill of real casino games but from the comfort of your home. You won’t miss out on the social aspect, and you’ll be able to remain anonymous. You can chat with the rest of the players and the dealer through a chat window, while the dealer is the only one who speaks through a microphone.

Another advantage of live dealer games is the variety. It won’t take a few trips to different land-based casinos but one sign-in to access multiple variants of each live game – whether it is a high roller blackjack, speed baccarat, or multi-wheel roulette.

Live Casino on Mobile

A live mobile casino is one that allows you to play live games from your mobile phone or tablet. The best live casino sites have dedicated apps published on the Google Play Store for Android devices and on the App Store for iPhones and iPads (iOS devices). However, even if you can’t find a native mobile app, you can still play while on the go using mobile browser-compatible sites. Players will be able to find their favourite live casino games on mobile thanks to the adaptable technologies and HTML5 casino sites.

Mobile casinos are popular due to their accessibility, as you can access your favourite game anytime and anywhere. The recent spark in popularity is due to more reliable internet connections and the expanded 5G coverage.

How to Sign Up for a Live Casino in Ireland

Signing up at any live dealer casino site is the simplest thing you’ll have to do. But before you get to that point, you should pick one of our top recommendations for Irish players. If you’re a newbie who has never registered an account at a live casino site, here’s how it’s done:

Pick a site off our list.
Click on the link to claim the offer, as this is the only way to receive exclusive promotions.
Start filling out the registration form.
Enter your full name, birth date, address, phone number and any other details the site requires.
Enter your email address and create a unique username and password.
Agree with the T&Cs and start playing!

There is a range of great casino sites available in Ireland at the moment; for more information on Irish casinos, click here.

Types of Live Dealer Casino Games

From the variety of live dealer casino games you can find at our top picks, here are some games and popular titles.

Live Roulette

Live roulette is a wheel game that allows players to bet where the ball will land. Some of the betting options include single-number bets, colour bets, odd or even number bets, etc. The gameplay is simple – you place a bet, and then the dealer spins the wheel. If you guessed right, you win.

There are three main roulette types – European Roulette, American Roulette and French Roulette. The main difference is in the number of zeros present on the wheel, which changes the game’s house edge.

The most popular games are:

XXXtreme Lightning Roulette
Immersive Roulette
Speed Roulette

Live Poker

Live poker is a slower-paced version of a real-life poker game with fewer hands and usually stricter betting limits. The game’s rules vary on its type, but the main goal is to beat the dealer’s hand. This differs from real-life poker, as you won’t compete against other players.

If we take Hold’em Poker as an example, the rule stays the same – the best five-card hand wins the pot. Players can place an ante and a bonus bet, then receive two hole cards, just like the dealer.

The most popular games are:

Three Card Poker
Caribbean Stud Poker
Texas Hold’em

Live Sic Bo

Live Sic Bo is an Asian game of chance played with three dice. Irish players can place their bets on the computerised bet box. Then, the dealer shakes the device, and if the outcome matches your bet, you win. In live Sic Bo, the actual rolling of the dice is automated, which ensures fairness.

There are plenty of bet types, each with its odds and payouts. When playing Live Sic Bo, you can place as many bets as you want per round.

The most popular games are:

Live Sic Bo
Evolution Super Sic Bo
Pragmatic Mega Sic Bo

Live Blackjack

Live Blackjack is a card game where you need to get your cards closer than 21 without going over. There’s a real dealer on the other side of the screen with a physical table in front of them dealing cards. The goal is to have a better hand than the dealer without exceeding 21. Some variations use six decks, while others have 8.

In the game, the face cards are counted as 10, the number cards have a face value, while aces can be 1 or 11.

The most popular games are:

Infinite Blackjack
Unlimited Blackjack
Ultimate Blackjack

Live Baccarat

Live Baccarat is a game where you bet on whether the Banker’s or Player’s hands will win. The one with the cards that are closer to 9 is the winner. The dealer gets two cards, just like the player. In some cases, a third card may be drawn. Face cards and 10s are discarded; aces count as 1, while the rest have their actual value.

Apart from the standard betting options, you can bet on a tie or use any side bet. Each bet has different payout rates, according to their probability.

The most popular games are:

Live Baccarat Squeeze
Lightning Baccarat
Golden Wealth Baccarat

Live Casino vs Traditional Online Casino Games

The main difference between a live dealer casino game and a traditional casino game is the opponent. When playing regular online casino games, there is no social aspect; you are simply playing by yourself, which can be a disadvantage for some. Another key advantage of live casino games is that players get the feel of playing at a brick-and-mortar casino without actually having to leave the comfort of home. Fortunately for players, both of these options are available 24/7, unlike in-person casinos.

Live Casino Software Providers

The best live dealer games are created and hosted by the top software providers; some to look out for can be found below.

Evolution Gaming

Evolution, previously known as Evolution Gaming, is the biggest live dealer provider. It was founded in 2006 in Sweden and has become a leader in the live casino market and the first to release live casino game shows. The company has acquired the following software providers: Ezugi, NetEnt, Red Tiger Slots, Big Time Gaming, and Nolimit City.

Lightning Roulette, Casino Hold’em, Deal or No Deal, Live Sic Bo, Monopoly Live, and Crazy Time are some of their most popular live casino releases. They also have released slots, such as San Quentin xWays and Extra Chill. Evolution is a reliable brand that licences its games and guarantees fairness.

Playtech

Playtech is a company that has been creating gambling software since 1999. They have created over 700 online poker rooms, bingo games, slots, table games, and live games. You can trust the brand, as they have proven to provide quality and fair gaming software over the years.

Some of their more popular live releases include Single Zero Roulette, VIP Baccarat, Baccarat Squeeze, Ultimate Blackjack, and Casino Hold’em. Regular casino games that have gained popularity include Justice League, The Dark Knight, Gladiator, and Age of the Gods.

NetEnt

NetEnt was first founded in 1996 and has provided premium and reliable casino games ever since. There are over 200 NetEnt slots and other games that produce fair outcomes with outstanding quality, which is a reason enough for the brand to be trusted.

You can play the ever-famous Starburst or enjoy other popular releases such as Dead or Alive 2, Gonzo’s Quest, or Divine Fortune. Some of their newest releases are Wild Turkey Megaways and Twin Spin XXXtreme. Aside from slots, NetEnt has table game classics, such as Texas Hold’em and Stud Poker.

Deposit and Withdrawal Methods

Our team has ensured only to include live online casinos that provide a range of payment methods. Below are methods you can use to play live games and claim live bonuses.

E-wallets

An e-wallet is an online service that allows you to transact without sharing banking information. They are simple to use, as they only require you to create an account and link it to a credit or debit card.

When it comes to casinos, deposits through e-wallets are processed instantly, while withdrawals take up to 48 hours. We’re happy to report that our top recommendations have processing times of up to 24 hours and include PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill in their cashier sections.

Prepaid Cards

A prepaid card is a voucher you buy with a predetermined amount and then use to pay for a good, or in this case, play live dealers. This is one of the simplest and safest ways to deposit in an online casino, as you won’t share personal or banking information with third parties.

Paysafecard is the most popular prepaid card in online casinos in Ireland. This method guarantees instant deposits, but you should know that withdrawing through Paysafecard isn’t possible.

Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies are decentralised digital currencies that you can use to play your favourite games, among other things. The best live casino sites offer you the chance to use Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum. However, you should know that crypto sites are not that easy to find.

Depositing with crypto is easy, as you only need to copy-paste the casino’s address to your crypto wallet and confirm the transaction. Both deposits and withdrawals shouldn’t take more than 15 minutes.

Debit Cards

A debit card is issued by a bank that allows you to pay for stuff online instead of using cash. Using a debit card at a live online casino is simple – you just need to enter the card details in the designated fields and complete the transaction.

A deposit through a debit card is instant and usually has no fees, while withdrawals may take up to 3 working days. The most popular brands at Irish Casinos include Visa and Mastercard.

Pay-by-phone

Pay-by-phones are mobile systems that allow you to use their software as an intermediate instead of directly using your debit cards. Apple Pay and Google Pay are the top pay-by-phone systems available in casinos in Ireland. They are easy to use, and there’s no room for error, as you don’t directly input your card details.

Deposits are instant without fees, but withdrawals are not always an option. Recently, some operators started allowing Apple Pay withdrawals, which don’t take more than 24 hours.

What to do if you have a gambling problem

We understand that gambling can be fun, but it’s important to gamble responsibly. If you are struggling with a gambling problem, please don’t hesitate to ask for help. There are people who can help you get on the road to recovery.

Here are some resources that can help you:

National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133
GamCare: https://www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware: https://www.begambleaware.org/

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which is the best live casino?

The best live dealer casino is one that fits all your gaming preferences. A licensed brand with SSL encryption, many live games, payment methods, and fair bonuses makes a great gaming destination.

What is the best live casino game to win money?

The best live dealer game to win money is one with the highest RTP. Check the return to player percentage and make sure it’s over 98%.

How to choose a live casino?

Check whether the brand is licensed, if it has enough games and bonuses, reliable payment methods, and quality customer support. Alternatively, pick one of our top live casino recommendations for players from Ireland.

Are live dealer games rigged?

No, live dealer games are definitely not rigged if you’re playing at one of our recommendations. Top brands and famous software providers ensure safety and fairness.

Published in partnership with Acroud Media.

Originally published on galwaydaily.com

Met Eireann issues more weather warnings as freezing temperatures forecast

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December 2, 2023

Met Eireann issues more weather warnings as freezing temperatures forecast

Met Eireann has extended a Status Yellow weather warning into Monday, with freezing temperatures expected on both Saturday and Sunday night.

The Low Temperature/Ice warning for all of Ireland which came into effect on Friday evening will now remain in place until 11am on Monday.

There will be very cold day and nighttime temperatures, with frost and ice persisting in many places.

This will create hazards such as slippery conditions for walking, dangerous travelling conditions, and welfare hazards for animals.

Temperatures are expected to drop as low as -3 degrees in parts of Galway tonight, with snow flurries in inland areas.

Sunday night will be a slight improvement, with lowest temperatures of -2 degrees forecast by Met Eireann.

Dense and freezing fog is also expected in many places, with a weather warning in place from Saturday evening until midday on Sunday.

This will create poor visibility for motorists and exacerbate hazardous travelling conditions created by frost and ice.

Cllr James Charity announces he won’t be contesting next local election

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December 2, 2023

Galway daily news Cllr James Charity announces he won't be contesting next election

Galway County Councillor James Charity has confirmed that he does not intend to stand in next year’s local elections, and will be retiring as a Councillor at the end of his current term.

Charity, who stands as an Independent for the local electoral area of Athenry – Oranmore, has sat on the county council for a decade since first standing in the 2014 elections.

Announcing his retirement on Saturday morning, he said that he feels he has achieved all he can for his area at the local government level.

“10 years ago, I announced my intention to run in the 2014 Local Elections for Galway County Council with the aim of giving a voice to the community I live in, to provide for absent local infrastructure, and to ensure a fair delivery of council budget funding to an area that had been left behind for far too long.”

“Two elections and a decade on, in excess of €5 million in funding has been secured from various budgets and funding streams for investment in the locality, 2 new dedicated playgrounds have been built, new pedestrian crossings and footpaths have been provided, while existing infrastructure has been repaired and improved, additional school buses were secured, and public bus services were both restored and expanded to areas that have never been serviced on a public bus route before.”

Charity said that remaining priorities of his such as the upgrade of the N84 and the Claregalway Bypass can only be achieved with significant funding from the central government.

This would require local TDs to secure their inclusion in a Programme for Government he said.

Charity said that he has not ruled out returning to politics at some stage “either as a candidate or perhaps more likely in support of one”, adding that national politics “requires change to be firstly achieved from within”.

“For now, I am looking forward to spending more time with my wife Fiona and new daughter Ellie, as well as focusing on my legal career and business interests.”

He thanked the voters who placed their faith in him over the years, along with his family who supported him, and all those supporters who have volunteered their time at elections.

A mother & son reunion turns tragic in Ros na Rún

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December 2, 2023

A mother & son reunion turns tragic in Ros na Rún

A mother & son reunion turns tragic, Malachaí is out to ruin Sorcha, and John Joe is desperate for help with the house in Ros an Rún.

Sonia is finally well enough to have visitors. However, Sam and Sonia’s mother-son reunion leaves the pair devastated when Sam learns some awful news.

Much to his surprise, Colm connects with Sonia. Meanwhile Frankie learns that Sonia is still alive. Can Diana convince him to spare Sonia’s life?

O’Shea informs Sorcha that Malachaí will be pressing charges. Tadhg tells Sorcha that Malachaí drugged Sadie, but warns her that there is no evidence to back it up.

Sorcha is distraught and longs for Sadie back in her life. She hatches a plan to outwit Malachaí, but ends up making things worse for herself. Will the truth ever come out?

John Joe is desperate for help with the house, but Manus has places to be. Terry steps in to lend a hand for a small fee, but his lack of experience quickly becomes apparent. How long can John Joe keep O’Shea off his back?

Micheál has his first radiotherapy session and is left feeling rougher than expected. To make matters worse, Laoise and Réailtín can’t see eye to eye and he finds himself stuck between a rock and a hard place.

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

Green light for new Leisure Centre in former Salthill Driving Range

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December 2, 2023

Galway Daily news Green light for new Leisure Centre in former Salthill Driving Range

Planning permission has been granted for a new leisure centre by converting a former driving range in Salthill.

Clearwater Ventures Ltd has been given the green light to create yoga and gym facilities, as well as a new café and retail area in the former driving range..

Other construction work will involve enclosing the driving range bays with windows and doors, and building an external sauna and decking.

Galway City Council refused planning permission for the proposed leisure centre in September of 2022.

The council said that the planned use would contravene the RA zoning of the site, which is “primarily for outdoor recreation”, and that the developer had not shown that the plans wouldn’t prejudice the objective of a greenway/cycle network in the development plan.

In the appeal, Clearwater said that the leisure centre was not a substantial change from its previous use, as the driving range was primarily based indoors, and that it would bring a vacant building back into use.

It also said that the proposed development would not result in an increase in traffic compared with the site’s previous usage.

An Bord Pleanála’s inspector recommended that planning permission be refused based on the RA zoning of the site, in line with Galway City Council’s decision.

“The use of this building as a standalone leisure and wellness facility with no functional relationship with any outdoor recreational use of the remainder of the lands zoned RA, which were last used, along with the building, as a golf driving range.”

“Accordingly, the use of the building now envisaged would neither be an outdoor recreational use, nor would it support such a use, and so it would materially contravene the RA zoning objective for the site.”

However, the board decided to overrule the inspector’s recommendation and grant permission for the development, subject to eight planning conditions.

The board said that, “The proposed and existing development to be retained would continue the nature of the existing and permitted development, in accordance with the zoning objective for the area.”

No changes are proposed for the car parking provision on site, but the developer intends to add 22 bicycle parking spaces.

University of Galway creating digital archive of letters from Irish expats c.1675 – 1950

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December 2, 2023

University of Galway creating digital archive of letters from Irish expats c.1675 - 1950

The University of Galway has received funding to create a digital archive of letters from Irish expats in America over three centuries.

Minister for the Gaeltacht, Patrick O’Donovan announced that he has approved a grant of up to €36,408 for the University’s IMIRCE project.

This funding will enable the development of an archival site which will provide the public with remote access to letters sent home to Ireland from America between 1675 and 1950 and more.

A collection of transcripts of c. 10,000 letters, gifted by Professor Kerby A. Miller to the university, will be a foundational collection for the initiative.

Besides these transcripts, the collections will also include biographies, autobiographies, recollections, and ephemera (songs, poems etc.) – material that will henceforth be available online as a result of the project.

Minister O’Donovan said, “This project is intended to strengthen the connection between people of Irish extraction in North America and Ireland and to foster more interest in the country, encouraging people to visit, especially our Gaeltacht areas.”

“At the same time, IMIRCE will be a unique platform for the University of Galway and the State as we endeavour to foster ties with the diaspora, including the Gaeltacht diaspora.”

“To that end, I am pleased, as Minister of State, that my Department is in a position to provide a grant to the University of Galway to assist with this meaningful work.”

IMIRCE will be a unique resource for anyone, from professional to amateur researchers interested in family history and genealogy, the social and cultural history of Ireland or North America, linguistics, and literature.

This grant was approved under the Language Support Schemes for organisations based outside of the Gaeltacht, with more information available here.

Reduced Price Older People’s membership for Leisureland Gym announced

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December 2, 2023

Reduced Price Older People's membership for Leisureland Gym announced

Dozens of older people in Galway City are in with a chance to win a massively reduced membership to Leisureland’s gym to help stay active.

Galway City Council is supporting the “Galway City Active Aged” pilot initiative as part of the Active Cities Galway programme.

The main element of the initiative will see 40 of our older and retired people receive a one-year membership to Leisureland, Salthill for just €24 (normally €299).

This gives access to the pool, gym, saunas, and classes for 12 months. Applications to avail of this scheme will be open from November 20th.

Everyone over 65 years of age resident in the City Council’s administrative area are eligible to enter the draw to be one of the 40 lucky membership winners.

Former Ireland soccer player Nora “Nono” McHugh whose brainchild this initiative is said, “I felt strongly that everyone deserves access to physical fitness and well-being regardless of their age or financial status.”

She contacted City Cllr Clodagh Higgins to help make this happen. Nora said that she hopes for the success of the pilot programme so that it might become an annual fixture.

Jason Craughwell of Galway Sports Partnership said, “This pilot gives the opportunity for people who may not consider joining a Leisureland to do so and benefit from the variety of physical activity opportunities the facility offers.”

“I would encourage those who may have mobility issues to enter the draw as LeisureLand caters for all abilities and has lots of adaptable equipment for all abilities.”

Ian Brennan, LeisureLand manager, said, “Leisureland is delighted to be involved in this positive initiative. The principle the Leisureland Board strive for is Access for all.”

“We hope to improve these people’s quality of life, both mentally and physically, by encouraging exercise and leisure facilities for everyone to enjoy.”

Cllr. Clodagh Higgins provided funding for this initiative through a budget allocation, working with Galway Sports Partnership and management at Leisureland to bring this initiative to life.

“This will really assist in encouraging Seniors to lead active lifestyles while promoting better health and well-being. This initiative will allow Seniors to exercise and stay active without the financial burden”.

Applications close at 5pm, December 8 2023 with the draw to take place on Monday, December 11.

Met Eireann issues Fog warning as motorists advised to exercise caution

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December 2, 2023

Galway Daily news Met Eireann issues Fog warning as motorists advised to exercise caution

Motorists are advised to be aware of dense freezing fog expected across much of the country this weekend.

Met Eireann has issued a status Yellow weather warning for fog to develop into Sunday afternoon.

The Fog Warning for all of Ireland is in effect this morning, and will remain in place until midday on Sunday.

“Dense fog forming in many areas, lingering through the day in some places. Patches of freezing fog too.”

This is expected to create poor visibility and hazardous driving conditions for motorists.

Another weather warning for ice and low temperatures is also in place today, with very cold day and nighttime temperatures forecast by Met Eireann.

This status Yellow weather warning will also be in place until 12pm on Sunday afternoon, with frost and ice persisting in many areas.

Further weather warnings are also likely into next week as an Arctic airflow brings consistently cold temperatures.

Coming Soon: 10 New Online Slots

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Thomas O'Brien

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December 2, 2023

If you are the kind of player who likes to be the first to try out the hottest new online slot machines from award-winning software providers as soon as the games are released, you’re in luck.

Here are 10 of the most hotly anticipated new slots from NetEnt, Red Tiger Gaming, Pragmatic Play, and others, which you will soon be able to enjoy playing in the free-play and real money modes at fully licensed and regulated South African iGaming sites like the official 10Bet online casino.

Top 10 new online slots coming soon to 10Bet

10Bet Games (aka 10Bet Casino) is regarded by many as the best online casino in South Africa. It has over 800 games from 10+ providers, including Evolution Gaming, Ezugi, Yggdrasil Gaming, Ggames, Spribe, Spinomenal, Red Tiger Gaming, Netgaming, Bitville, Pragmatic Play, and NetEnt.

Although we don’t yet have an official launch date, we do know that the following new online slots are coming soon from some of these market-leading software providers/game development studios are set to arrive in November/December 2023. They include the following eagerly awaited new slots:

Sugar Rush Xmas online slot from Pragmatic Play
Chase for Glory online slot from Pragmatic Play
Juiced: Duomax online slot from Yggdrasil Gaming
Excalibur Vs Gigablox online slot from Yggdrasil Gaming
Sidewinder: Doublemax online slot from Yggdrasil Gaming
Finn and the Candy Spin online slot from NetEnt
Elk Hunter online slot from NetEnt
Sugarlicious EveryWay online slot from Red Tiger Gaming
Astros online slot from Red Tiger Gaming
Sirens’ Riches online slot from Red Tiger Gaming

These new feature-rich slots have something to suit all types of slot players and will be available to play in the real money mode and free-play demo mode.

Are there any other new online slots to keep an eye out for?

Yes. Over the coming weeks, these same market-leading providers will also be releasing several other new slots. Wanted Wilds: Extreme, Steam Squad, and Giga Blast from Red Tiger Gaming are some of the most talked-about new slots coming soon from these same award-winning providers.

Yggdrasil Gaming will soon be releasing several new slots, such as Arctic Catch, King Arthur 10K Ways, Frozen Ages, Ragna Ravens Wild Energy, Mega Money Machine, Defenders of Mystica, Nice Catch 2: DoubleMax, and Rock Star Santa: MultiMax, to name just a few.

Pragmatic Play fans can also look forward to Candy Jar Clusters, Gates of Olympus 1000, John Hunter Nell ‘Antica, Floating Dragon New Year Festival, Sugar Rush Xmas, Gemine, 888 Bonanza, Dingo Dong Christmas Bells, 5 Frozen Charms Megaways, and Big Bass Christmas Bash, to name a few.

Is 10Bet a safe online casino?

10Bet is a trustworthy iGaming site for people living in South Africa. In fact, the South African men’s national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, chose 10Bet South Africa as their official betting partner sponsor, and South Africa’s Lamontville Golden Arrows has also chosen them as their official principal partner, with the 10Bet logo appearing on their kits.

The website is licensed locally in South Africa by MER – the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator. It’s owned and managed by a reputable name from the iGaming industry, and the secure website uses 128-bit SSL encryption software to protect your account.

When it comes to keeping your personal information, transactions, and preferred payment method details safe, 10Bet has you covered.

In other words, the 10Bet website is one of the safest options for South Africans who are looking to play computer-generated games and live dealer games or place sports bets from a smartphone, tablet, desktop computer, or laptop.

Is it easy to deposit at 10Bet?

Yes. Depositing at 10Bet is easy. If you live in South Africa, head to the cashier section, and you will see that they accept only the most reliable, user-friendly, secure, and convenient SA online payment methods.

For example, South African players can deposit from as little as R50.00 using various well-known payment solutions, such as Masterpass, EasyPay, Zapper, Blu Voucher, EFT, OZOW, American Express, Mastercard, Visa, OTT Voucher, Capitec Pay, and 1Voucher.

Final note

If you don’t want to miss out on the generous 10Bet welcome bonus, which includes 10 Free Spins for the Tut’s Twister slot from Yggdrasil Gaming, up to R3,000 in free bonus cash, and up to a R500 free sports bet, deposit R50 or more using any of these methods EXCEPT for 1Voucher.

It’s the only deposit method not included in the promotion. You must be at least 18 to register a 10Bet account, and the entire sign-up process takes less than a couple of minutes. When gambling with real money, remember to gamble responsibly and only spend money you can afford to lose.

Galway Active Retirement team takes 2nd place at National Bowls Competition

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December 1, 2023

galway daily news active retirement team — Members of the Turloughmore bowls team from Co Galway compete against Co Kerry’s Kenmare Dolphins in the Active Retirement Ireland National Bowls Competition large bowls plate final in Killarney on Thursday. Photo credit: Don MacMonagle

Members of the Turloughmore 1 Active Retirement bowls team have taken home one of the top prizes at the 2023 Active Retirement Ireland National Indoor Mats Bowling Competition in Kerry this week.

Turloughmore 1 team members Catherine Woods, John O’Donovan, Billy Woods and skip John Ridge were presented with the 2023 large bowls plate runners-up prize by Active Retirement Ireland National President Kevin Monaghan and Mayor of Killarney Cllr Brendan Cronin.

Over three days, 63 Active Retirement teams from across the country competed for the 2023 Active Retirement Ireland Cup in indoor mat bowls at the organisation’s 11^th annual flagship event.

Speaking at the awards presentation, Active Retirement Ireland CEO Maureen Kavanagh congratulated Turloughmore 1 on their ‘fantastic achievement’.

“The 252 bowlers who have competed for the cup this week, alongside our volunteers who helped deliver the event, confirm the drive and desire of older people to do things for themselves, maintain social connections and be a part of life,” she said.

“Social events like the National Bowls Competition, where older people can get together, be active and enjoy a little healthy competition and camaraderie, are vital for positive ageing.

“We are grateful for the generous support of our event host the Gleneagle for making this event possible for so many of our members and for their recognition of the contribution that older people make.”

Maureen Kavanagh said that older people don’t want things done for them, and that they want to be active in their own lives.

“It’s time the Government instituted and implemented a comprehensive, whole-of-government positive ageing framework in Ireland, including an adequate state pension benchmarked against average earnings, so that they can.”

Ukrainians living in Galway to join Phil Coulter on stage today

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December 1, 2023