University of Galway is to host Ireland’s new supercomputer, following a collaboration agreement by the Government and the European Commission.

The national high-performance computing system – CASPIr – will be operated by the University’s Irish Centre for High-End Computing (ICHEC).

It will provide the research and innovation community across Ireland and Europe with significantly enhanced capacity to address challenges and opportunities in science and society, such as climate, environment, health, AI and big data.

CASPIr will be co-funded by the Department for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and European High Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU) as part of a five-year collaboration agreement.

Professor David Burn, President of University of Galway, said, “The collaboration agreement for the new supercomputer CASPIr heralds a new era of research capability for Europe, and Ireland’s research community, and places University of Galway and our Irish Centre for High-End Computing at the helm of data driven study.”

“I would like to thank Minister Lawless and his team in the Department for pursuing this investment and working with University of Galway to secure it.”

“We can now look forward to the research community reaping the rewards of this next generation of supercomputing and data driven research as it drives University of Galway’s strategic focus on transformative data and AI to support interdisciplinary research addressing global challenges.”

CASPIr follows on from the supercomputer Kay, which was commissioned in 2018.

It is one of 31 supercomputers in Europe which are funded under the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking. It is planned to be in service in 2027. CASPIr takes its name from Computational Analysis and Simulation Platform for Ireland.

ICHEC is hosted at University of Galway and funded by the Department of Further and Higher, Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

It is Ireland’s national centre for high-performance computing, providing e-infrastructure, services and expertise to the academic research community, industry and the public sector.

Its high-performance computing services are made available to researchers based on a peer review process by an independent panel of scientists.

Dr Michael Nolan, Chair of the ICHEC Science Council said, “CASPIr will enable the Irish research community to take leading roles in research consortia, international research programmes and attract industry investment that is built on the ability to integrate computational methods into R&D, alongside helping to deliver on government ambition.”

Salthill is expected to be crowded by 2,000 people this week turning out to support good health in the annual Croí Night Run.

The 11th annual Croí Night Run is taking place on the evening of Friday, October 17 in aid of the lifesaving charity.

Based in Newscastle, Galway City, Croí Heart & Stroke Charity provides a wide range of community support services to improve awareness of heart disease and stroke.

They also provide care right in your community, with heart health and stroke prevention specialists running events that off heart health checks, interactive workshops and practical tips for a healthy lifestyle.

The annual Night Run is a huge benefit to the charity, with more than €30,000 raised through registrations and donations already in 2025, before it has even taken place.

The run will take place on the Promenade in Salthill from 8pm on Friday night. In order to accommodate this, traffic management will be in place.

A Temporary rolling road closure has been granted on Grattan Road (R336) from Mutton Island to Blackrock from 8pm – 9.30 pm.

The 5k race will start at Mutton Island at 8pm and crowds will be expected in the area in advance of the start time.

For further information on the event, please visit croinightrun.ie.

Correction: This article has been updated to correct the estimated number of attendees to 2,000.

Respond, Ireland’s largest construction-led Approved Housing Body (AHB) and service provider, delivered 12 new social homes in Galway last year.

Respond now owns and manages 476 homes throughout Galway, providing secure and affordable accommodation for tenants.

Respond is set to deliver almost 1,000 new social and cost-rental homes this year – its highest annual output to date.

The organisation, which operates across all 26 counties, expects to hand over 972 new homes by year’s end.

This includes 789 social and 183 cost rental homes, marking the fourth consecutive year of growth in its annual delivery figures.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne launched Respond’s 2024 Annual Report on the progress of the AHB’s housing pipeline, which includes 3,458 homes currently being built across the country.

In 2024, Respond delivered 855 new social and Cost Rental homes, representing a 28% increase on the previous year and approximately 6% of all new social homes built nationally.

It also commenced construction on 2,667 additional homes during the year. Respond delivered 18% of Cost Rental homes delivered by Approved Housing Bodies in 2024.

Respond now manages 8,510 properties across 26 counties, providing secure, affordable housing for over 19,000 tenants.

Speaking at the launch, Respond spokesperson Niamh Randall said, “Respond is committed to supporting the Government’s programme of housing delivery by increasing the national housing stock through our cost effective, construction-led model.”

“We are providing families with access to stable, long-term homes where they can put down roots as part of a local community.”

“Our vision is an Ireland where everyone has a great place to live, and we are building the infrastructure and the communities to make that a reality. Each of our developments follow our evidence informed Housing Services Delivery model and includes community hubs.”

“As a trusted delivery partners, we await the new Housing Plan due later this month for detailed and targeted housing measures, including much needed funding and policy certainty for the Approved Housing Body sector.”

“Approved Housing Bodies, like Respond, have a strong track record of delivering quality homes for families and individuals and supporting connected communities all around Ireland.”

It is critical we are enabled to continue to deliver homes now and into the future to meet Government targets and address urgent housing need.”

Welcoming Respond’s progress, James Browne, TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, added, “I would like to congratulate Respond on the publication of their annual report, which showcases the important role that Approved Housing Bodies play in delivering new homes at the scale required to tackle the housing crisis.”

“My Department is proud to lend strong support through multi-million funding for Respond’s construction-led model which is now providing thousands of homes throughout the entire country, along with other vital services that help create communities where people feel safe and supported.”

Two student-led projects at the University of Galway have won top prizes for sustainability and diversity and inclusion as part of the ENLIGHT European University Alliance.

The awards were announced at this year’s ENLIGHT Teaching and Learning Conference in recognition of outstanding initiatives led by students that demonstrate impact, innovation, and alignment with ENLIGHT’s core pillars.

University of Galway is one of 10 research-intensive universities in the ENLIGHT European university alliance.

ENLIGHT was formed in 2020 with a shared aim to transform the way global challenges are addressed and to empower students, teachers and researchers to deal with complex sustainability issues.

Speaking about the recognition, Alex Metcalfe, Interim Vice President International at University of Galway, said, “We are immensely proud of our students for leading projects that not only embody the values of ENLIGHT but also drive real change on campus and beyond.”

“Winning both awards in such highly competitive categories is testament to the creativity, commitment, and leadership of our students in shaping a more sustainable, inclusive future.”

In the Sustainability category, Adam Mullins of University of Galway Students’ Union was awarded first place for SPÉIR – SU Pantry – Students’ Union.

The initiative is a system where food, which is surplus, in damaged packaging, end of line or near sell-by or use dates, is collected through FoodCloud. It is then distributed to students at the University instead of being dumped.

The initiative was nominated by the University’s Sustainability Office. The judges commended its measurable impact in tackling food waste, connecting sustainability with wider societal issues and its strong potential to be replicated in other universities and cities.

In the Diversity and Inclusion category, Galway’s Active* Champions project was awarded first place.

Judges highlighted the project’s peer-education approach and its impressive impact in addressing key challenges around inclusion and awareness, emphasising that “we can never have enough initiatives that highlight these issues.”

The award was accepted by postgraduate student María José Hun on behalf of a dedicated team of Active* Champions.

They are a network of student peer educators and leaders for initiatives on ending sexual violence and harassment, consent, sexual health and well-being, and active bystander skills.

The Active* Champions initiative is led by the Office of the VP Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.

The juries, comprised of sustainability and inclusion professionals from all ENLIGHT partners, praised all ten nominees across both categories, noting the closeness of the competition and the exceptional standard of entries.

ENLIGHT includes University of Galway; Comenius University, Bratislava (Slovakia); University of Groningen (Netherlands); University of Bern (Switzerland); University of Bordeaux (France); Ghent University (Belgium); University of Tartu (Estonia); University of Gottingen (Germany); University of the Basque Country (Spain); and Uppsala University (Sweden).

The project is supported by the Government and the European Commission. The aim is for the alliance to develop as a platform for the creation of a new type of European university campus where students and staff have increased opportunities for international study, training, teaching, research and sharing of services.

Leapmotor Ireland has announced its selection of Kenny Galway, Tuam Road, as its latest official franchise dealer.

This development marks Leapmotor’s fourth Retail Partner in Ireland, and the first in Connacht, further expanding the brand’s footprint in the west of Ireland.

The appointment is part of Leapmotor Ireland’s continuing expansion of its nationwide dealer network.

From this month, customers in Galway will be able to discover and purchase the full Leapmotor range at Kenny Galway, including the compact urban Leapmotor T03 and the versatile Leapmotor C10 family SUV, soon to be followed by the Leapmotor B10 compact SUV this November.

Business Development Manager at Leapmotor Ireland, Yvonne Sweeney, said, “We are delighted to welcome Kenny Galway to the Leapmotor family.”

“Their strong reputation for quality and customer service aligns perfectly with our vision to bring innovative electric vehicles to Irish drivers, without compromise.”

“This partnership ensures customers in Galway and the west of Ireland can access our exciting Leapmotor lineup with the confidence and local support of such a trusted Galway dealership.”

Established in 1992, Kenny Galway has grown into one of the region’s most trusted motor dealerships. Originally located on Headford Road, the business relocated in 2003 to its impressive, purpose-built showroom on the Tuam Road.

As the main Peugeot dealer in Galway since 2014, Kenny Galway proudly offers a wide range of vehicles and services. With a knowledgeable and dedicated team, the dealership is committed to delivering exceptional customer care for Leapmotor customers.

Brian Kenny, Dealer Principal at Kenny Galway, said, “Joining forces with Leapmotor marks an exciting new chapter for our dealership as we embrace the future of mobility.”

“We look forward to introducing our customers to Leapmotor’s cutting-edge technology and sleek designs, and to offering comprehensive sales, service, and support for these innovative vehicles.”

Launching in Ireland this month, the Leapmotor T03 and versatile C10 models will be available through Gowan Auto’s established retail network, offering customers an unparalleled sales and aftersales experience.

The new Leapmotor B10 SUV, recently showcased at IAA Mobility in Munich, is poised to elevate the lineup further.

Leapmotor B10 is being dispatched worldwide aboard Leapmotor’s dedicated 9,250-unit freighter, operated in a strategic partnership with Grimaldi Lines, underscoring Leapmotor’s accelerating international expansion and commitment to delivering quality electric vehicles on a global scale.

Four Galway schools have been recognised with a prestigious Irish Heart Foundation award for training their students in the lifesaving skill of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Gort Communty School, St. Joseph’s Patrician College (The Bish), Coláiste Mhuire in Ballygar and St. Brigid’s College in Loughrea each received a CPR 4 Schools award recently.

This award recognises schools, teachers and students for remarkable efforts in CPR promotion and training.

They were among 33 schools across Ireland presented with 63 awards as part of the national heart and stroke charity’s CPR 4 Schools programme.

Ninety-per-cent of secondary schools have engaged in the programme since its inception, with 2,630 teachers involved across 649 schools to deliver CPR training, giving the programme a reach of over 350,000 students nationwide.

The charity is now calling on all schools to sign up to help build a new generation of lifesavers.

The programme trains students to perform CPR and respond in a cardiac emergency, use an AED (defibrillator) and respond when someone is choking.

Easy to run, it involves one-hour, video-led lessons, fully supported with manikin kits and classroom resources.

Schools benefit from the awards recognising their participation and positive student engagement, while families and entire communities gain by having young people emerge as confident lifesavers.

“We have been doing CPR4 school for many years, and it is just getting bigger and better each year,” said Aoife Lynskey, Gort Community School teacher.

Brigid Sinnott, Resuscitation Manager with the Irish Heart Foundation, encouraged teachers countrywide to help students obtain essential lifesaving CPR skills.

“We know that schools are extremely busy places, which makes us all the more blown away by the work and commitment they have put in to teach the lifesaving skill of CPR to date.

“The Irish Heart Foundation’s mission is to build a nation of lifesavers through CPR training and schools are vital to help us achieve that.”

She added that the CPR 4 Schools programme is easy to run, and encouraged schools nationwide to see how simple it is to implement.

“Schools and teachers are at the core of this programme and these awards are our way of recognising them for empowering students with a lifesaving skill.”

A person’s chance of survival is doubled when CPR is started immediately.

By learning CPR once in your life, you are 10 times more likely to respond to an emergency than someone who has never received training.

A generous donation of €20,000 has been presented to the Thinking of You memory box project for organ donors at University Hospital Galway.

The donation was made in memory of the late Simon Quinn from Abbeyknockmoy, Co. Galway, after his family held a fundraiser to honour the care he was shown.

The cheque was presented by Simon’s parents, Carmel and Fred Quinn, together with Simon’s brother Aaron and sister Iarla.

The funds were raised through an iDonate page and a community auction, which received overwhelming support from the people of Abbeyknockmoy and surrounding areas.

The Thinking of You memory box is a symbol of respect and compassion for organ donors and their families, reflecting empathy and care during life’s most difficult moments.

Through meaningful keepsakes, the project offers comfort during end-of-life care and the donation process, helping families preserve connection, create cherished memories, and find lasting support in their grief.

Led by Gillian Shanahan, Organ Donation Nurse Manager, HSE West and North West, this initiative is inspired by the selfless decision to become an organ donor, an act that saves and transforms lives.

Its growth has been made possible through the continued support of donor families. What began as a small nursing project offering comfort has evolved into a gift of memories shared from one donor family to another, a powerful reflection of empathy, compassion, and humanity at its finest.

The Quinn family shared, “It was our honour to raise funds for this amazing project. The Thinking of You memory box brings us great comfort, knowing that Simon has a keepsake with him – a lasting connection that we’ll always treasure.”

“Every detail of the box reminds us of the compassion and care shown by the staff at University Hospital Galway during an unimaginably difficult time.”

“We would be overjoyed to see these boxes launched nationwide, allowing other families to create cherished memories, just as we were able to do with Simon.”

Gillian Shanahan, Organ Donation Nurse Manager and Project Lead for the Thinking of You memory box project, expressed her deep appreciation for the donation.

“On behalf of the team at University Hospital Galway, we would like to thank the Quinn Family for their efforts in raising this remarkable amount. This generous donation will help us continue to support donor families through this project.”

“Each memory box is a reminder of the organ donor’s legacy, not only through the lives saved but also through the comfort and healing these keepsakes bring to the families.”

Repairs have been completed to a burst water mains on the Circular Road in Galway City, which was causing water outages to hundreds of homes in the area today.

The burst water main resulted in outages for approximately 500 units in Circular Road, Clybaun Road, The Heath, Cúirt Chéirín, Hy Brasil Court, The Bailey, Fána Buí, Barnacranny, Bushypark; Ballymoneen Road and surrounding areas today.

Repairs were completed at 3pm this afternoon, and supply levels in the area are currently returning to normal.

However, it may take longer for those on higher ground or at the end of the network to have a full supply restored.

Leo O’Shea of Uisce Éireann thanked affected customers for their cooperation while repairs were underway.

“Uisce Éireann acknowledges the inconvenience caused by unplanned outages and thanks customers for their patience and cooperation while these works were carried out. We regret any inconvenience caused.”

Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of missing Galway man, 48-year-old Martin Ward.

Martin has been reported missing from Tuam, Co. Galway, since Monday, October 6.

Martin is described as being approximately 6 foot 3 inches in height, with a big build. He is bald and has blue eyes.

When last seen, Martin was wearing light green tracksuit bottoms, a dark green sweatshirt, black sleeveless body warmer top and black runners.

Martin’s family and Gardaí are concerned for his wellbeing.

Anyone with any information on Martin’s whereabouts is asked to contact Tuam Garda Station on 093 70840, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

Tympany Medical, the Galway company pioneering smarter surgical endoscopes, has launched a €600,000 fundraising campaign through Crowdcube under the Employment and Investment Incentive Scheme (EIIS).

With a 50% tax rebate available, the round targets both seasoned investors and first-time backers looking to diversify their investment portfolios and support innovation that improves lives.

Tympany Medical has developed Solascope, an endoscope platform targeting the 20 million procedures per annum requiring endoscopic visualisation.

Commencing in ENT Surgery, Tympany has developed cutting edge endoscope camera technology with variable-angle camera and integrated cleaning.

Building on the trend towards single-use, the company has developed a sustainable platform with minimal waste and optimum sterility and safety to benefit patients, surgeons and the environment.

Tympany Medical’s product enables shorter, less invasive surgical procedures, reducing recovery time for patients and enhancing surgical efficiency for medical teams.

“What’s innovative about our approach is that while the market is shifting from reusable to single-use devices for sterility and safety reasons, we’re introducing a single-use endoscope with a sterile, reusable handle,” said company Chairperson Charlie Wilhelm.

“This hybrid design significantly reduces medical waste in the operating room without compromising on patient outcomes or surgeon preference. This is a major sustainability win for healthcare.”

At the heart of Tympany Medical’s momentum is a bold leadership realignment. Co-founder and former CEO Dr Elizabeth McGloughlin has transitioned into the role of Vice President of Strategy, Clinical and Business Development.

This move recognised that sustainable scaling of the business requires a team-first approach.

“In fast-growing companies, especially in MedTech, leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about clarity and playing to strengths,” says Dr. McGloughlin.

“Stepping into a focused role where I can drive opportunity, partnerships, and business development has allowed us to accelerate growth.

“Appointing Michael Gilmore as CEO was a strategic decision; his business and engineering expertise perfectly complements my clinical background, and together, we’re strengthening the company’s performance and vision.”

“Our solution offers better visibility, improved ergonomics for surgeons, and more sustainable practice,” explains Gilmore. “We’re not just improving procedures; we’re reshaping what modern surgical tools should be.”

Now with 15 employees and a scalable roadmap, Tympany is poised for the next phase: commercial acceleration. The €600K investment is part of a larger €4.5 million round that will fund the company’s growth strategy, product refinement and early market deployment.

This campaign aims to accelerate Tympany Medical’s roadmap towards regulatory approvals, global partnerships and commercial readiness.

The 28th Galway Science & Technology Festival is returning next month, marking the beginning of an exciting programme as part of ‘Research Ireland’s National Science Week’.

This year’s theme, ‘Then, Today, Tomorrow’, will run throughout the Festival’s events, celebrating scientific discoveries of the past, showcasing the latest innovations of today, and inspiring the next generation of scientists, technologists and engineers.

The highlight of the Festival is the fantastic free Family Day Exhibition, which will take place on Sunday, November 9 from 10am–5pm at the University of Galway campus, the Festival’s main education partner.

The Exhibition promises to be a vibrant, family-friendly event, featuring over 100 interactive exhibits, 25 different shows and workshops, and a wide range of experiences for all ages.

Visitors can explore everything from unmissable dinosaurs, exotic bugs, LEGO, to the ever-popular Teddy Bear Hospital, artificial intelligence and live science demonstrations.

Admission is completely free, with tickets for individual shows and workshops available from 9am on Saturday, November 1, via the Festival website. Early booking is recommended, as many of the most popular events fill up quickly.

This year’s programme also features a range of engaging events which are available to the public, including ‘The Science of Women’s Health – Evidence, Insights and Interventions’ sponsored by Research Ireland.

Professor Mary Ryan, Consultant Endocrinologist and author, and internationally renowned breathing expert Patrick McKeown will lead the event taking place on Wednesday, November 12 at the Black Box Theatre.

On Tuesday, November 18 at the Eye Cinema ‘Back to the Future – The Science Behind the Movie’ will feature a screening of the film from 1985, 40 years since its original release.

Plus, attendees will get a cinematic talk with ‘Superhero Scientist’ Barry Fitzgerald, who will explore the fascinating materials and technologies imagined in this iconic film.

Running from November 10 – 14 there will be Artificial Intelligence Workshops in the O’Donoghue Centre at University of Galway, which will be open to the public, focusing on the exciting role of AI in building sustainable cities.

The “My Moving Brain Community Connect” event, exploring brain health and inclusion in sport, takes place on Saturday, November 1 at 1pm in the O’Donoghue Centre, University of Galway.

There will be a ‘Marine Science Exhibition and Workshops’ at Galway City Museum, offering hands-on learning about our oceans.

In addition, the Festival’s annual Schools Programme will bring a wide variety of free science shows and workshops to classrooms across Galway city and county, ensuring that thousands of students have the opportunity to engage directly with Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).

Festival Chair Paul Mee added, “The Festival continues to thrive thanks to the support of our sponsors, partners, and the wider community.”

“By making science accessible and fun, we are not only showcasing innovation but also encouraging young people to see themselves as the scientists, engineers, and problem solvers of the future.”

Festival Manager Anne Murray said, “Our aim has always been to make science accessible, engaging, and fun for everyone.”

“The Festival is not just about showcasing innovation, it’s about creating moments of discovery that families, teachers and young people can share together.”

“This year’s programme highlights how science connects our past, present and future in ways that inspire curiosity and confidence.”

Galway Science & Technology Festival is proudly supported by its main sponsor Medtronic, lead academic partner University of Galway, Research Ireland, and a wide network of local and national partners.

For full details of the programme and to book tickets, visit www.galwayscience.ie

Traffic in Athnery will be disrupted until the first week of November due to roadworks taking place in the town.

Galway County Council is carrying out footpath reconstruction works in Athenry, which have gotten underway this week.

To facilitate these works, a traffic management system will be in place for their duration and road users are advised to expect delays.

Work is beginning on Monday, October 13, and is expected to take approximately three weeks to complete.

Work has begun this month on a €23.6 million mixed-tenure housing development in Baile Chláir (Claregalway), County Galway.

The 88-unit scheme, led by Galway County Council and supported by €12m funding from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage marks the county’s first council-led shared equity housing initiative.

It will comprise of a mix of social and affordable units, alongside a crèche, landscaped open spaces, and a community playground on Lakeview Road, and other community amenities.

Construction commenced last week and is scheduled for completion by September 2026.

During his visit to Galway today, Minister James Browne also opened housing developments in Ardrahan and Tuam, and toured community and transport infrastructure projects in Tuam and Oranmore.

In Ardrahan, the Minister officially opened a 10-unit social housing scheme at Caisleán Raithin which was funded with €3.3m from the Department’s Social Housing Investment Programme (SHIP).

The Council-led development, located within walking distance of the village centre, includes a mix of single-storey and two-storey homes.

In Tuam, the Minister officially opened the 29-unit Pairc na Cille social housing development developed by Galway County Council on Weir Road.

Completed in late 2024, it was funded by €8.1m from the Department’s SHIP initiative. The scheme includes a range of one to four-bedroom homes and a sheltered care unit that will be managed by Ability West to provide 24-hour care for people in their own homes.

All homes are A2 BER-rated and situated close to schools, shops, healthcare services, and public transport.

Minister Browne also visited Tuam Station House, which is being redeveloped by the local authority into an enterprise hub with €6.66 million in funding from the Northern and Western Regional Assembly through the European Regional Development Fund.

The local authority-led facility will feature individual workspaces, a podcast studio, café, and multi-use community area.

The Minister inspected ongoing works at Oranmore train station, where a new pedestrian and cycle underpass is currently being installed. This will provide access to a second platform, which will commence construction in early 2026.

A one-kilometre dynamic passing loop will also be constructed, which will significantly increase train frequency in both directions.

The project is being led by Galway County Council and supported by almost €10m funding from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage’s Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) and by the Department of Transport.

Speaking in Baile Chláir, Minister Browne said, “These projects are a clear demonstration of how this Government is actively supporting local authorities such as Galway County Council in delivering a comprehensive programme of investment across housing, transport, and community infrastructure. This work is transforming local areas and laying the foundation for vibrant, sustainable communities.”

“We fully recognise that the delivery of new homes must be matched by the provision of essential infrastructure—enterprise hubs, transport links, and community facilities.”

“When individuals and families receive the keys to their new homes, they need more than just a roof over their heads, but they also require transport links, employment opportunities and amenities to create liveable, vibrant communities.

“From affordable and social housing developments to the vital upgrade works at Tuam and Oranmore train stations, these projects reflect our commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth.”

“I am proud to witness first-hand the positive impact this investment is having on communities across Galway and beyond,” added the Minister.

Councillor David Collins, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, stated, “The Baile Chláir development addresses the strong housing need in the town and the surrounding area. With family-friendly facilities and accessible open spaces, the scheme will create a welcoming environment for residents.”

The Do Not Consume Notice affecting customers on the Tully / Tullycross Public Water Supply in Co. Galway has been lifted with immediate effect.

Uisce Éireann has confirmed that, following consultation with the Health Service Executive, customers on this supply can now resume normal use of their water supply.

The Do Not Consume Notice was issued in July to protect the health of approximately 400 customers following the detection of elevated levels of manganese in the supply.

Drinking water experts from Uisce Éireann worked to lift the notice for impacted customers as quickly and as safely as possible.

Uisce Éireann’s Tony Kelly acknowledged the impact of the notice on the community, saying that it, “regrets the inconvenience that the Do Not Consume Notice caused.”

“I would like to thank affected customers for their patience and support while our drinking water experts worked to lift it as quickly as it was safe to do so,” said Tony.

“I also thank the local political representatives and the media for their assistance in sharing the information during the period of this notice.”

The Marconi Men’s Shed in Clifden and the community of Clarinbridge have welcomed judges from the 23rd annual IPB Pride of Place competition, an all-island awards programme highlighting excellence in community development.

Nominated by Galway County Council, both groups are hoping to be among the winners at this year’s Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony, which will take place at the Strand Hotel in Limerick on November 7.

In Clifden, judges visited the Marconi Men’s Shed, a unique and pioneering initiative serving male family carers in the wider Connemara region.

It is the first men’s shed in Ireland founded exclusively by male carers, and has grown into a thriving community hub.

Supported by FORUM Connemara CLG, the group has transformed four outbuildings into a well-equipped facility, combining workshop and storage areas. The shed currently has over 50 members aged between 43 and 85, who meet regularly for a range of activities.

Projects include a woodturning workshop, a gardening initiative in the on-site polytunnels, and a strong focus on health and wellbeing. Members have taken part in Tai Chi, mindfulness courses, healthy eating programmes, physical activity sessions, and smoking cessation workshops.

Many participants have reported significant improvements to their mental and physical health, demonstrating the project’s powerful impact on quality of life.

In Clarinbridge, judges were introduced to a broad range of initiatives led by the Clarinbridge Tidy Towns group, which has played a key role in community development since its foundation in 1979.

The village, known for its scenic beauty, oysters, and hospitality, continues to thrive as a forward-looking and inclusive community.

The adjudicators toured key local landmarks, including The Green, Parish Hall, Kilcornan Estate, and the Cowpark/Kilcornan Walking Trails, all of which reflect the community’s long-standing commitment to heritage, environmental protection, and social engagement.

Clarinbridge Tidy Towns collaborates with a range of local groups, including the Clarinbridge Men’s Shed and SCCUL Sanctuary, to promote wellbeing and community cohesion.

Annual events like Clarinbridge Market Day and Halloween on the Green further strengthen the area’s community spirit and highlight the village’s commitment to culture and inclusivity.

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr David Collins, praised the two nominated communities and offered his best wishes for the upcoming awards.

“The Marconi Men’s Shed in Clifden and the community of Clarinbridge really show what’s possible when people come together with passion, vision, and a shared sense of purpose,” he said.

“Both projects reflect the true spirit of community here in Galway, focusing on inclusion, wellbeing, heritage, and sustainability. I want to sincerely thank everyone involved for their dedication and hard work. On behalf of the Elected Members of Galway County Council, I wish them every success in this year’s Pride of Place Awards.”

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive with Galway County Council, commented, “We are proud to support the work of local communities across the county through initiatives like Pride of Place.”

“We recognise the invaluable contribution of voluntary groups in enhancing the places where we live, work, and visit.”

“Supporting and empowering these communities is a key priority for the Council, and we remain committed to working in partnership with local groups to help them thrive and continue making a real difference.”

Organised by peacebuilding charity Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride of Place awards honour the outstanding efforts of community groups working to improve their local areas.

Now in its 23rd year, the initiative celebrates the voluntary spirit and collaborative action that strengthen towns and villages across the island of Ireland.

County Galway has a strong record in the competition. At last year’s ceremony in Monaghan, Kinvara Tidy Towns and Williamstown were named runners-up in their respective categories, continuing a tradition of recognition for the county’s vibrant and engaged communities.

County Galway’s most recent overall category came in 2023, when the Creggs Rural Development Group was awarded top honours in the Climate Action & Biodiversity category.

The group was recognised for its outstanding work in promoting, educating, and raising awareness of biodiversity within the village and surrounding areas in north Galway.

Planning permission has been granted for the BusConnects: Dublin Road infrastructure project in Galway City by An Coimisiún Pleanála.

This project involves a 3.9km continuous corridor from Moneenageisha Junction to the Doughiska Junction along the R338 Dublin Road.

The new bus facilities will include additional dedicated bus lanes in both directions and enhanced bus stops.

The route will also feature new active travel infrastructure in the form of segregated cycle tracks and upgraded pedestrian facilities.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard said, “This is a very welcome development for much-needed public transport, walking and cycling infrastructure for Galway City.”

“BusConnects Galway: Dublin Road serves a number of significant employers, educational institutions and residential areas on the Dublin Road. It’s also a main artery into and through the city.”

“It’s essential for the sustainable development of the city that projects such as this can progress in Galway, so I welcome the decision of An Coimisiún Pleanála to grant planning consent for this project”.

As part of this decision, An Coimisiún Pleanála has granted planning consent, and consent for Galway City Council to compulsorily purchase a number of properties along the route.

This project is part of the Galway Transport Strategy, and is funded by the National Transport Authority.

The 3.9km route for the BusConnects project will take it alongside Atlantic Technological University, Merlin Park Hospital, Bon Secours Hospital and more facilities.

Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, said, “BusConnects Galway is a priority project for Galway City, with Dublin Road a significant route in the city’s growing network of public transport infrastructure.”

“Dublin Road will link into other completed and pending projects, including the Ballybane Road and Castlepark Road Cycle Network Scheme, the Doughiska Road South Cycle Network and the BusConnects Galway: Cross-City Link project.”

“For the city to continue to be an attractive place to live, work, visit and invest, Galway City needs a modern, high-quality public transport system, with high-quality facilities for walking, cycling and wheeling.”

“This project is one of many that will change the narrative in terms of travel choices in Galway City, with less reliance on private cars and more people walking, cycling and taking public transport. I’d like to acknowledge the National Transport Authority, for their support in progressing this project.”