Galway Cartoon Festival leaping from the page

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September 11, 2023

The closure of part of the Caheroyn Road in Athenry has been extended into late October to allow pipe laying works.

The county council has ordered the Caheroyn Road closed between the y-junction with New Line and the Cúirt Ard junction.

This is to allow deep excavation and pipe-laying works to take place.

The period of that road closure has now been extended up to an including Friday, October 27.

Diversion routes are in place.

Commercial Vacancy rate in Galway rose to 18% in June

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September 11, 2023

Galway Daily business Galway Commercial Vacancy rate

The commercial vacancy rate in Galway had increased to 18% as of June according to the latest GeoDirectory Commercial Buildings Report.

This is the second highest rate in the country, nearly 4% higher than the national average, and represents an increase of 0.8% compared with a year previous.

The report, prepared by EY, found that the national commercial vacancy rate stood at 14.1% in June 2023.

Commercial vacancy rates increased in 20 out of 26 counties in the twelve months to June 2023, with a total of 29,798 vacant commercial units recorded across Ireland.

Commenting on the findings of the report, Dara Keogh, Chief Executive of GeoDirectory said that this is the highest commercial vacancy rate on record.

“Businesses are clearly still struggling with the increasing costs of doing business in regard to energy costs and food inflation.”

“An additional challenge this year has been interest rate increases which are generating some pressures for commercial owner occupiers and tenants.”

Annette Hughes, Director, EY Economic Advisory added, “After several years of strong construction activity in the commercial sector, the increases we are seeing in commercial vacancy are to an extent unsurprising”.

She said that trends working from home, along with other concerns like sustainability and energy efficiency are likely impacting on this issue.

“While there have been increases in the cost of doing business for some companies, the overall Irish economy remains in a good position, with further growth and increases in the numbers employed forecast.”

The analysis shows that there remains a wide disparity in vacancy rates across the country, a trend observed in previous GeoDirectory Commercial Buildings reports.

At 19.9%, Sligo was the county with the highest commercial vacancy rate, followed by Galway (18%), Donegal (17.9%), Mayo (17.3%) and Roscommon (16.9%).

The county with the lowest commercial vacancy rate was Meath at 10.2%, followed by Wexford at 10.6% and Kerry at 12.2%.

All four provinces in Ireland reported an increase in overall vacancy rates, with Connacht having the highest rate at 17.9%, which is 3.8% above the national average.

Connacht also recorded the highest increase of the four provinces in the 12 months to Q2 2023, rising by 0.5%.

RNLI lifeboat rescues kayakers in trouble in Galway Bay

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September 11, 2023

RNLI lifeboat rescues kayakers in trouble in Galway Bay

The Galway RNLI lifeboat came to the rescue of two distressed kayakers who were in trouble in Galway Bay over the weekend.

The lifeboat crew were called out by the Coast Guard on Saturday to assist two kayakers in difficulty off Hare Island.

The lifeboat launched around 3.40pm on Saturday with crew members Dave Badger, Stefanie Carr, James Rattigan and Brian Niland on board.

The lifeboat crew made their way to the reported location of the kayakers south-west of Hare Island. Conditions were good at sea with little wind and good visibility.

The crew brought the kayakers and their kayaks on board the lifeboat and returned them safely to shore.

Dave Badger who was helm on board the lifeboat said that this call out, “shows how important it is to be able to raise the alarm if you get into difficulty on the water.”

“The kayakers we rescued today had a mobile phone with them and were able to call for help when they were unable to return to shore.”

“Even in fine weather things can go wrong and it is important to always have a means of calling for help as part of your kayaking kit and keep it on you, within reach, at all times.”

“If you get into difficulty or if you see someone in difficulty in the water, please dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”

Man (60s) involved in serious assault in Westport dies from injuries

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September 10, 2023

Galway Daily news missing teen found safe

Peter McDermott (60s) who had been receiving treatment at Mayo University Hospital following a serious assault in Westport passed away earlier this evening.

The State Pathologist has been notified and a post-mortem will now take place in due course. A family liaison officer has been appointed.

Earlier today, a man (20s) who was arrested as part of this investigation was released from custody. A file will now be prepared for the Director of Public of Prosecutions.

Gardaí are continuing to appeal to anyone who may have witnessed this incident to contact them.

Any pedestrians or road users who were in the vicinity of High Street in Westport between 1am and 2am on Saturday 9 September 2023 and who may have camera footage (including dash cam) is asked to make this available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to contact Westport Garda Station on 098 50230, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

‘Huge milestone’ for Knock Airport as August sees record numbers pass through

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September 10, 2023

A record 102,000 passengers passed through Ireland West Airport in Knock in August, making it the busiest month in the airport’s 38-year history.

The passenger numbers represented a 10% increase on the same period in 2022 and were 7% higher than in August 2019.

The busiest day of the month was Tuesday 29 August when 4,539 passengers travelled through the airport, which proved to be the busiest ever for the airport.

Over 78,000 passengers travelled between Ireland and the UK during the month of August, an 11% increase on August 2022 with the London Market experiencing record passenger numbers on services to and from Luton and Stansted with Ryanair and London Heathrow with Aer Lingus.

In addition, Ryanair had their busiest ever month on their services to both Edinburgh and Liverpool.

The airport’s services to continental Europe also recorded passenger numbers with a 5% increase compared to August 2022.

Faro in Portugal and Girona in Catalonia were the two most popular sun destinations for holidaymakers, whilst Ryanair’s twice-weekly service to Cologne in Germany enjoyed its busiest ever month in August, providing a boost for tourist visits to the West and Northwest regions.

Joe Gilmore, Managing Director, Ireland West Airport, said it was a ‘fantastic milestone’ for the airport to reach over 100,000 passengers in a single month for only the second time.

“Despite the record numbers travelling last month, our staffs focus continued to be on ensuring the journey through the airport was efficient and a pleasant one for all our passengers.

“The months of September and October continue to look strong and with great value to be had on flights to the UK and Spain, Portugal, Italy and Germany it’s always a popular time for those looking to get some autumn sunshine or enjoy a short city break.”

Man released from custody following Westport assault

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September 10, 2023

A man in his 20s who was arrested as part of the investigation into an assault in Westport, Co. Mayo yesterday has been released from custody.

A file will now be prepared for the Director of Public of Prosecutions (DPP).

A man in his 60s was in critical condition after the serious assault which occurred in the very early hours of Saturday morning.

The altercation on High Street, Westport occurred at approximately 1.20am on Saturday.

The man (60s) was taken to Mayo University Hospital, where his condition was described by Gardaí as critical.

The scene is currently preserved for a forensic examination by the Garda Technical Bureau.

Gardaí are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed this incident to come forward.

Two airlifted to hospital after car and train collide in Mayo

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September 10, 2023

Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a crash involving a train and a vehicle on a railway near Claremorris in Co. Mayo yesterday.

The car and the Irish Rail Dublin Heuston to Westport service collided at an unattended level crossing on a rural road at Garryredmond, Claremorris.

The adult male driver of the vehicle and the teenage male front-seat passenger were both airlifted to Galway University Hospital where their condition is stable.

Gardaí are currently liaising with the family of the occupants of the vehicle.

An Garda Síochána also worked with Irish Rail to facilitate passengers to continue their journey.

The initial response was provided by An Garda Síochána, Mayo County Council Fire Service despatched from Claremorris, paramedics and ambulance personnel from the National Ambulance Service supported by the Irish Coast Guard, Rescue 118 from Sligo and Irish Air Corp helicopter based at Baldonnel.

An Garda Síochána are investigating all of the circumstances of this road traffic incident.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Claremorris Garda station on (094) 937 2080, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

A guide to tax efficient saving for retirement

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Thomas O'Brien

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September 10, 2023

Saving for retirement can be a difficult task, particularly when you factor in the various tax rules that can apply.

With this in mind, we thought it important to offer a guide to tax-efficient saving for your retirement, so you have a few steps in place to help you build your wealth effectively, for a comfortable retirement.

Seek financial guidance from a professional

One of the first, and arguably most important steps in savings tax efficiently for retirement is seeking professional guidance.

We recommend finding a retirement planning service, such as that available with a modern wealth manager.

By seeking the guidance of a professional, it can allow you to receive tailored advice on how to structure every aspect of your retirement, including your investments, retirement goals, and steps to overcome any potential challenges you might face when it comes to your finances.

Your adviser’s vast experience can allow them to make the right recommendations for your investments, so you not only build your wealth in the right way, but also makes sure your approach suits your financial circumstance both in the present and in the future.

Build an extensive retirement plan

You can also consider building an extensive retirement plan, which allows you to outline each of your future goals and implement the right steps, for you and your financial situation.

Firstly, your adviser can help you establish the right retirement goals that are realistic in terms of your finances.

For example, this can include things such as:

Retiring with a certain amount in your pension pot
Supporting your financial dependants through retirement
Making your pension pot last in retirement
Being financially capable of retiring early

Then, with clear goals in place, your adviser can help you implement the right steps to reach these targets, factoring in your investments. For instance, this can include planning out how much you need in your pension pot by the time you retire to hit your goals, and how this can realistically be accomplished.

Consider the most tax-efficient structure for your investments

Naturally, an important step in tax-efficient investing for your retirement is structuring these investments effectively.

There are many options you can take, including things such as your personal pension or Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs), for example.

With each investment, your adviser can help you effectively navigate any tax rules and make the most of your allowances each year.

For instance, they can help you make the right contributions to your pension to grow your savings tax-free, whilst also aligning each step with your financial circumstance.

Not only this, but they can advise you on choosing the right portfolios that offer the most suitable risk level for your financial situation. This can help you reach your targets whilst also protecting your wealth.

Revise and adapt your plan regularly

The final step in our guide is to make sure you constantly review your retirement plan and adjust your approach where necessary.

Various things can impact your investments, whether this be changes in what you can contribute each year or changes in things like the stock markets and tax rates.

We recommend regular meetings with your adviser, who can offer guidance on navigating these impacts.

For example, you can use powerful wealth-building tools to offer key investment insights for structuring your accounts. This can give you full visibility and control over every investment, as well as notifying you of any important factors which could impact your wealth.

This is important for helping you remain on track to reach your retirement goals, no matter how your financial situation evolves.

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Will you be taking anything from this guide to implement in your own retirement planning approach? Whether you’re incorporating tips from our guide, or some of your own, be sure to discuss any options with your modern wealth manager to help ensure the right approach for your financial situation.

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Please note, the value of your investments can go down as well as up.

Lightning and flooding forecast as Thunderstorm warning issued

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September 9, 2023

galway daily news Lightning and flooding forecast as Thunderstorm warning issued

Met Eireann has issued a status yellow weather warning for thunderstorms which are expected to roll over much of the country tomorrow.

The weather warning for Galway, Cavan, Monaghan, Clare, Leitrim, Roscommon, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, and Westmeath will be in effect from 12pm on Sunday until midnight.

Met Eireann has warned of localised thunderstorms and slow-moving heavy downpours of rain during this time.

These will bring frequent lightning and localised flooding to the areas affected Met Eireann.

It was only this morning that a High Temperature weather warning expired as the country has experienced a sharp upswing in conditions in recent days.

There is currently a separate thunderstorm warning in effect for counties in the east and southeast of the country.

The Connacht Hotel Invites You for a Family Sunday Lunch

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September 9, 2023

There’s no time like the present to enjoy quality family time, and The Connacht Hotel has the ideal offering to help you make the most of it.

The hotel, owned by the Connacht Hospitality Group, is ready to welcome you for a delicious Family Sunday Lunch in their modern and inviting Rueben’s Restaurant and Bar Solo.

Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious range of options for both lunch and dinner, all prepared by their passionate culinary team. It’s a fantastic excuse to get the whole gang together for a day of fun.

The Sunday Lunch menu at The Connacht Hotel is always bursting with delicious flavour for you and yours to enjoy. The Connacht Hotel is a truly family-friendly spot to visit, with its welcoming atmosphere, attentive staff, and great facilities like convenient free parking.

And that’s not all because you and your family can enjoy a relaxing meal as the team there provide all their little guests with a Friendly Fellows fun activity pack to keep them entertained. Plus, your children might just enjoy a visit from their very own Friendly Fellows mascot.

Family Fun Activities at the Connacht Hotel

You can also explore the hotel’s grounds to see if you can spot the family of fairies who live here – try and find the doors to their magical houses first or spend some time visiting their Resident Bug Hotel where they have 250,000 guests enjoying a relaxing stay.

With schools back and the hustle and bustle of the weekday returned, it’s important to take time at the weekends for family memories – and The Connacht Hotel’s Family Sunday Lunch is one of the best ways to do just that.

So, make sure you swing by The Connacht Hotel on Sundays to relish family time, great food, and an upbeat atmosphere. In the meantime, why not explore the menu to discover all the many tasty delights you can relish?

Sponsored by the Connacht Hospitality Group

Five people arrested after city centre altercation

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September 9, 2023

Five people have been arrested and charged in connection with an altercation in Galway City Centre on Friday afternoon.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to a public order incident on Williamsgate Street.

At approximately 3:20pm on Friday, Gardaí responded to reports of an altercation involving a number of persons on Williamsgate Street.

Five men (aged in their teens, 20s and 40s) were arrested and detained in connection with this incident.

The five men were later charged and appeared before special sittings of Galway District Court yesterday evening and this morning.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident to contact them.

Any road users and pedestrians who were in the vicinity of Williamsgate Street yesterday afternoon between 2.45pm and 3.30pm and who may have camera footage (including dash cam) is asked to make this available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to contact Galway Garda Station on 091 538000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

Ros na Rún blazes its way back onto the screen

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September 9, 2023

Ros na Rún blazes its way back onto the screen

Ros na Rún returns to the screen with blazing intensity. The Daly house is on fire, and no-one is safe, Mack is being set up for a fall, and Berni faces her demons.

The Daly’s house is on fire and all of their men are in danger. Can emergency services be called in time to save the family, or the village itself from the flames?

Greg is felling the incredible pressure after his selfish actions caused the fire. Will he crack and confess under the strain?

Mack has turned himself in, while Garda Diana is covering her tracks and ready to walk him by the hand all the way to a prison cell.

Berni takes refuge in Micheál’s, and he takes the opportunity to share a health scare with her which he wants kept secret from Laoise and Réailtín.

But she has issues of her own to face, as Berni braves her fears and returns to the apartment to celebrate baby Lenora’s birthday.

Annette is fomenting a campaign to prevent Caitriona’s return as manager to Raidio Pobail. But how much support can she muster? Is it over for Caitriona.

Catch up on all of this week’s action in Ros na Rún explosive return to the screen in a double feature omnibus on TG4 this Sunday.

New Bereavement Room for Parents opens at Portiuncula University Hospital

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September 9, 2023

New Bereavement Room for Parents opens at Portiuncula University Hospital

Portiuncula University Hospital has officially opened a new designated room in the Maternity Unit for bereaved families.

The Willow Suite has been designed to provide a protected and comfortable space for parents and their families who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss.

The Willow Suite will provide a ‘home from home’ space for parents and families who have experienced a pregnancy or infant loss and for those who require in-patient care.

The suite was specifically designed to provide a private environment, within which, the individual needs of each bereaved parent will be respectfully and sensitively cared for.

Director of Midwifery at the hospital, Deirdre Naughton, explains the significance of the new development. “While the birth of a baby is normally a very joyful experience for women and their families, sadly, there are times when a baby dies before or shortly after birth.”

“The loss of a baby is an incredibly traumatic event leaving parents with overwhelming emotional needs and is one of the most painful experiences that any parent has to face. It signifies the loss of the future, of hopes and dreams and affects the entire extended family.

“We hope this important new suite will give grieving parents a comfortable space to spend time with their baby and to create memories. It allows a family to grieve with dignity and respect to the personhood of their child,” she added.

The Willow Suite is a single occupancy room with en-suite shower and bathroom facilities, and includes an equipped kitchenette, Bluetooth speakers, oil diffusers and colourful and captivating artwork.

The suite overlooks the hospital gardens and in the coming months a small memory garden space will be completed which will incorporate a seating space around a willow tree to provide families a sanctuary surrounded by nature.

“The name ‘Willow’ was chosen in consultation with staff and women attending our service. Willow is a symbol of the endurance of love and family. It gives hope and a sense of belonging and safety, added Deidre.

Leanne Norton, Bereavement Support Midwife said, “We hope the room will offer some small comfort to parents and their families in times of grief and bereavement.”

“The interior design was undertaken to ensure privacy and dignity and it will allow parents some quiet time to spend with their baby and loved ones, while still getting support and assistance from staff.”

In conjunction with this, Portiuncula Hospital have also upgraded the Rose Room, which is located beside the new suite. This is another space for families going through a difficult time in their lives.

“Its soft furnishings, gentle but alluring artwork and inbuilt custom furniture is designed almost as a small living room and has been used by families as a space for older children and grandparents to wait and rest,” Leanne said.

James Keane, Hospital Manager added, “We are very grateful to the National Infants and Women’s Health programme for the funding to develop the Willow Suite.”

“Person centred bereavement support is integral in the care we provide to parents and families bereaved by pregnancy or infant loss, and we are honoured to provide a dignified and compassionate space within our bereavement care.”

Man in his 60s in critical condition after serious assault

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September 9, 2023

A man in his 60s is in critical condition after a serious assault which occurred in Westport in the very early hours of Saturday morning.

Gardaí are investigating the assault which occurred when two men were involved in an altercation on High Street, Westport at approximately 1:20am this morning.

One man, aged in his 60s, was seriously injured during the incident. He was taken to Mayo University Hospital, where his condition is described as critical.

The scene is currently preserved for a forensic examination by the Garda Technical Bureau.

A man in his 20s was arrested at the scene, and is currently detained at a Garda station in the North Western Region.

Gardaí are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed this incident to come forward.

Any pedestrians or road users who were in the vicinity of High Street in Westport between 1.00am and 2.00am this morning, Saturday September 9, and who may have camera footage (including dash cam) is asked to make this available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to contact Westport Garda Station on 098 50230, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

Social Democrats announce candidates for Galway City local elections

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September 9, 2023

Galway Daily politics Social Democrats announce candidates for Galway City local elections — From left: Cllr Alan Curran, Eibhlín Seoighthe, and Kodzo Selormey on the announcement of the Social Democrats candidates for the 2024 local elections in Galway City.

The Social Democrats have announced two candidates who will contest next year’s local elections for Galway City Council.

The party has confirmed that Cllr Alan Curran will be standing for his seat in Galway City West, and Eibhlín Seoighthe will be standing in Galway City Central.

The two candidates were chosen by branch members to represent them at the party’s selection convention on Thursday, September 7.

“Alan Curran and Eibhlín Seoighthe represent the values of the Social Democrats: fairness, unity, and community empowerment,” said Kodzo Selormey, the treasurer of the Social Democrats national executive.

“Their expertise and dedication will undoubtedly contribute to a more vibrant and prosperous Galway.”

Alan Curran was co-opted to the city council in March of 2023 to take the seat of Cllr Owen Hanley, who had resigned.

A secondary school teacher at Coláiste Éinde in Salthill, Alan Curran is best known as the founder of the Galway Cycle Bus.

This is a community initiative enabling children to cycle safely to school. He is also a member of the Galway Cycling Campaign.

“It is a great honour to serve the people of Galway and I would welcome the opportunity to continue this work with my colleagues in the council,” said Curran.

“I’m a passionate advocate for sustainable communities focusing on high quality public transport and active travel schemes, affordable and inclusive housing, and well resourced supports and facilities for our young people.”

In Galway City Central, Eibhlín Seoighthe will represent the Social Democrats with a focus on empowerment, representation, and advocating for equality.

Her previous experience includes being Vice president for the Students’ Union in the University while raising a family, and understands the importance of making it safe and liveable for all.

“I want Galway to be the most liveable city in the world. I grew up here and want to dedicate my life to making it better,” Eibhlín said.

“I believe in a Galway where every voice is heard, and every person is valued. My dedication lies in hearing the concerns of underrepresented communities and working towards policies that promote inclusivity and equal opportunities. “

The next elections for Local Authority councillors around the country will take place in June 2024, on the same date as European Parliament elections.

Galway City Council has a total of 18 councillors divided equally across the three electoral districts of Galway City West, Central, and East.

Rugby stars coming to Busker Brownes for matchday madness

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September 9, 2023

Galway Daily life & style Rugby stars coming to Busker Brownes for matchday madness

Galway’s Busker Brownes may look a little bit different on match day this year as Heineken teams up with rugby stars to turn pubs Green all the Way for big games this September.

The country’s most iconic and colourfully named pubs will be transformed and renamed as the nation gets behind the boys in green this rugby season.

International rugby star and Cork native Simon Zebo and rugby legend Devin Toner will be joined alongside a troop of rugby stars past and present including Peter Stringer, Donncha O’Callaghan, Sean O’Brien, Ian Madigan, Andrew Conway and Dave Kearney to name but a few.

They will be heading to beloved pubs around the country, where they will be pulling pints, working the door and having the craic with fans in the pub on match days.

Devin Toner and Simon Zebo pictured at the Grey Goose pub in Drogheda. Picture Andres Poveda

Fans can grab a pint pulled by barman for the day Devin Toner or Peter Stringer, as well as plenty of other surprise and delight moments.

All of this is taking place in these four iconic venues at ‘Green Hour’, the hour before the big game kicks off.

Galway’s Busker Brownes, the Silver Key in Cork, Drogheda’s Grey Goose, and Sinnott’s Stephen’s Green Dublin will be transformed Green all the Way in September as Ireland battles it out in France.

Speaking on the Green all the way campaign, international rugby star Simon Zebo said that seeing pubs transformed like this just adds to the excitement of the tournament.

“There will be plenty of craic in the pubs on matchday – I can’t wait to see a few of the lads try their hand behind the bar!”

Key Dates

Ireland v Romania: Saturday, September 9 (Green hour from 1.00pm)

Ireland v Tonga: Saturday, September 16 (Green hour from 7pm)

Ireland v South Africa: Saturday, September 23 (Green hour from 7pm)

Ireland v Scotland: Saturday, October 7 (Green hour from 7pm)

Hazardous waste collection event in Galway City today

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September 9, 2023

Galway Daily news Hazardous waste disposal event for city households

Galway City Council is holding a special hazardous waste collection event today at Ballybrit Racecourse from 8am to 12:30pm.

The event is only open to householders in the city and only those who register online will be allowed to enter.

Registration for the event costs €10, and no cash will be accepted at the gate.

Only the following items will be accepted:

Paint, paint cans**
Adhesives
Old medicines
Pesticides, Insecticides, Herbicides,
Aerosols

**Maximum of 10 X 10 litre paint bucket containers.

Booking a slot at the event can be done online here.

First ever Irish language children’s channel launches in Galway

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September 8, 2023

galway daily news cúla4 tg4 launches in galway — Photo Martina Regan

The first ever dedicated Irish language children’s TV channel launched today at the TG4 headquarters in Conamara, which has been described as a ‘historic day’ for the Irish language.

The new channel will air for 14 hours every day, from 6am until 8pm, and will include a wealth of entertainment, drama, a children’s news service, a mix of home produced content and acquired shows.

It will also be a valuable source of educational Irish language content.

Aimed at 0-12 year olds, Cúla4 will provide an entertaining and fun daily point of contact to the Irish language for children.

It will be available on Saorview Channel 18, Channel 602 on Virgin Media, and Sky 624, along with Eir.

Cúla4 will also be supported online via the player which is available at cula4.com and also the Cúla4 App.

The channel will have a six-minute news service from Tuesday to Friday at 1.30pm, produced by Fíbín Media and hosted by Aisling Ní Dhonnabháin and Seán Ó Maoilchiaráin.

Schools will be able to tune in from their classrooms and keep up to date with the news of the day.

The channel will be anchored by presenters Seosamh Mac Seoin from Belfast, who wraps the morning slot from 6am, Galway’s Síle Ní Chonghaile who will present the educational zone from 9am, and Niamh Ní Chróinín from Dublin who has a fun packed slot in the afternoons from 3pm for the older age groups.

Karina Feirtéar, Channel Manager of Cúla4, said that it is a historic day for TG4 and the Irish language.

She said the new Cúla4 channel ensures that Irish language content is more accessible for our younger audiences, and will hopefully strengthen their engagement with it.

“We developed a space for our audience to enjoy entertaining content when they like, and will continue to make sure that we represent our diverse audience as best we can by showcasing lives in Ireland today, through a fun and colourful experience – while immersing them in a living language, in the hope that they learn new things about the world around them through a medium they are used to.”

Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin, said she was extremely pleased to be in Galway today to launch Cúla4.

“Young people need to be able to visualise themselves achieving great things in all walks of life, and Cúla4 allows young people with Irish to see themselves represented on screen,” she said.

TG4’s Director General Alan Esslemont, said that he believes Ireland’s biggest single contribution to global diversity has been its ability to pass its own language from generation to generation as the living language of homes and communities.

“In that context, the approval given by Minister Catherine Martin for the establishment of a dedicated children’s channel in the Irish language is of historic significance,” he said.

“The English language is omnipresent in media globally and, if Irish is to continue as a community language, TG4’s services for children must be prominent, dynamic and attractive, strengthening children’s relationship with Irish language media and, through that, sustaining their relationship with the Irish language.

“I commend Minister Catherine Martin for her vision for the future of TG4, I thank this Government for their support and I send my deepest appreciation to everyone who has worked over many years, within TG4 and in the creative sector, to achieve this dream.”

Pobal celebrates 30 years with event in Galway City

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September 8, 2023