The University of Galway has welcomed planning approval for the development of a new School of Medicine Building.

The new facility is to be built on the University’s south campus, a short distance from the Quadrangle and will complement the ongoing expansion of courses in the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences.

This includes the first intake of pharmacy students on the MPharm this September and the planned Graduate Entry Medicine programme, which is due to beginin  September 2027.

The building design runs over four storeys, covering approximately 3,925sq metres, and is integrated, via a glazed atrium link, with the existing Block E building, a protected structure of historical and architectural significance.

It will offer state-of-the-art facilities for teaching and research, including tutorial, seminar and meeting rooms, study spaces and collaboration areas, advanced research laboratories and administration offices.

As part of the University’s broader sustainability goals, the design includes plant systems and solar PV panels to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Professor David Burn, President of University of Galway, said that getting planning approval for the new building for the College of Medicine is a major milestone for the University.

“This development reflects our strong commitment to medical education and research, particularly with our Graduate Entry Medicine programme due to begin in 2027 and the benefit it will reap for the West and North-west region, and nationally.

“A development of this scale is key to supporting the next generation of healthcare leaders by providing students, researchers and staff with cutting-edge facilities, fostering innovation, discovery, and excellence in medical education, all while honouring the heritage of our historic campus.”

Dr Martina Ni Chúlain, Director of Strategic Development, added that the new facility is a “significant investment in the future of medicine and health sciences at the University of Galway.”

“It will play a critical role in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals and reflects the scale of our ambition as a national and international leader in medical education and research.”

Professor Laurence Egan, Head of the School of Medicine at University of Galway, said, “The new School of Medicine Building will not only enhance how we teach and learn but also how we work together across disciplines and with our healthcare partners.”

“It will support a model of medical education that prioritises innovation, collaboration and a strong connection to the healthcare needs of our region and beyond.”

A woman in her 80s has lost her life after being hit by a bus on Monday night in Galway City.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following a fatal road traffic collision which occurred on the Dublin Road, Wellpark, yesterday.

The collision involving a bus and a female pedestrian occurred at approximately 8.45pm.

The pedestrian, aged in her 80s, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her body has been removed to University Hospital Galway, where a post-mortem will be arranged.

There were no other injuries reported.

Garda Forensic Collision Investigators carried out an examination of the scene and the road has since been reopened.

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

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the area between 8.30pm and 9pm on Monday, September 15 are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Gaillimh Garda Station on (091) 538000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Heavy rain is expected in Galway this week, with Met Eireann issuing a status yellow weather warning for tomorrow.

From 6pm Tuesday evening until 3am on Wednesday morning, there will be heavy spells of blustery rain in the west and south west of the country.

This may cause difficult travelling conditions, with poor visibility and localised flooding from the rain.

The weather warning has been issued for counties Galway, Clare, Limerick, Kerry, and Cork.

University Hospital Galway is extremely overcrowded today, with more than 60 people reported on trolleys this morning.

On Saturday and Sunday, September 13 & 14, a combined 393 people attended the Emergency Department, resulting in 82 admissions.

As of this morning, there are currently 37 patients in the Emergency Department and a total of 62 patients on trolleys, including at the ward level. Additional surge beds have also been opened over the weekend.

All available beds in the hospital are in use and there is a high number of patients awaiting beds.

Patients are facing long waiting times to be admitted from the Emergency Department to a bed on a ward.

Every effort is being made to discharge patients who are ready to go home so that beds will become available for patients who need to be admitted at the earliest opportunity.

Due to these ongoing pressures and the lack of bed capacity, the hospital is postponing some elective procedures.

Urgent and time-sensitive procedures are being prioritised. Patients are being contacted directly if their procedure is being postponed.

A statement from the hospital said, “As always, people who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend EDs where they will be prioritised.”

“The hospital acknowledges that these delays are very difficult for patients and their families and apologises for the inconvenience and distress these delays cause.”

“The hospital is committed to treating everyone who presents at the Emergency Department; people who are seriously injured or ill are assessed and treated as a priority, and those who do not require urgent care may be waiting longer.”

“We request that people only attend the Emergency Department at the hospital if it is an emergency situation. We ask that people attend their GP or out of hours service in the first instance if at all possible.”

“The Roscommon Injury Unit is also open from 8am to 8pm daily, to treat a range of injuries in both adults and children over the age of five.”

The Re-turn bin scheme for recycling bottles and cans is expanding with 20 new bin surrounds installed in Galway City Centre.

Carlow, Clare, Cavan, Westmeath, and Meath will follow over the coming months as the bin surrounds programme continues to expand.

This expansion builds on the successful rollout of 80 bin surrounds in Dublin City Centre, and an additional 24 in Dun Laoghaire Harbour.

This initiative aims to make on-the-go recycling visible and accessible while reducing litter and preserving valuable recyclable materials.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Councillor Mike Cubbard, said, “We’re proud to bring this initiative to Galway, a city known for its vibrant community and forward-thinking spirit.”

“Sustainability begins at the local level, and this bin surround initiative shows how thoughtful design can lead to a lasting impact.”

“By making recycling and returns more visible and accessible, we’re empowering the people of Galway to take simple steps that make a real difference to our environment.”

Research from Re-turn found that containers left on the bin surrounds were collected on average within 16 minutes.

A survey carried out by Re-turn reveals that 79% of the public support on-the-go recycling schemes and would welcome a similar scheme in their local area.

Fergal Cushen, Environmental Awareness Officer, Galway City Council, said, “This is one of several steps the City Council is taking to make Galway a more circular city, while making it as convenient and visible as possible for members of the public to contribute.”

“There may be tourists or people passing through Eyre Square who won’t have the opportunity to return their bottle or can.”

“These new bin surrounds mean their cans and bottles stay segregated from general waste and can be recycled properly – with the person doing the recycling collecting 15 cents every time.”

“It is a great initiative and fitting that it is being launched at the start of Galway City Council’s Climate Inspirations Festival.”

Coastwatch recently reported the lowest plastic bottle and can litter levels on Irish shores in 25 years, a trend reinforced by IBAL’s August survey, which showed a 50% increase in clean coastal sites.

This next phase is being co-funded on an equal basis by Re-turn and participating local authorities, working together to deliver practical solutions that support cleaner streets, stronger recycling habits, lower landfill rates, and a reduction in environmental pollution.

Commenting on the launch, Ciaran Foley, CEO of Re-turn, said, “Re-turn is delighted to collaborate with Galway City Council on this important on-the-go recycling initiative.”

“We are committed to providing the public with convenient and visible recycling options, and the bin surrounds pilot scheme is successfully delivering on that promise.”

“We are encouraging the public to utilise bin surrounds and assist with the recycling of plastic bottles and cans. Together, we can support the circular economy and make a real difference in our communities and environment.”

Registration is now open for the 2025 Croí Night Run, proudly sponsored by Benecol, taking place on Friday, October 17, along the stunning Salthill Promenade in Galway.

The fun, family-friendly 5K event invites people of all ages and fitness levels to run, walk, or jog under the stars – all in support of Croí’s mission to prevent heart disease and stroke.

Now in its 11th year, the Croí Night Run is a highlight of the Galway’s autumn calendar. Participants are encouraged to join TV personality Dáithí Ó Sé at the start line, with media partner iRadio, to get the night off to a great start and cheer on runners as they take to the prom in support of a great cause.

In addition to the main event on Salthill Prom, participants can also join one of the Croí Night Run Satellite events in Castlerea (Co. Roscommon), Headford (Co. Galway) and Charlestown (Co. Mayo).

Or you can take part from anywhere in the world, with runners already signed up from Dublin, Waterford, Kerry, Cork and even Boston, USA.

Christine Flanagan, Director of Fundraising at Croí, said, “The Croí Night Run is more than just a 5K – it’s a powerful way to raise awareness of heart health while supporting the vital services Croí provides, including free heart and stroke risk checks, patient support, education programmes, and community initiatives.”

“Every step taken on the night helps us fight heart disease and stroke across the region. We’re thrilled to have Dáithí joining us again this year and to welcome Benecol back as our title sponsor.”

“We’re delighted to continue our partnership with Croí for the 2025 Night Run,” said Laura O’Connell, Senior Brand Manager for Benecol UK and Ireland.

“At Benecol, promoting heart health is at the core of everything we do. Supporting Croí aligns perfectly with our mission, and we’re proud to help inspire communities to take simple, positive steps towards better heart health.”

Heart disease and stroke remain two of the leading causes of death and disability in Ireland – but they are largely preventable.

By participating in the Croí Night Run, individuals are not only improving their own health through physical activity but are also directly contributing to Croí’s lifesaving work throughout communities.

Registration is €35 per person. All participants will receive: A limited edition long-sleeve running top, a glow-in-the-dark medal, chipped timing with your personal result sent via text – perfect for competitive runners! Early registration is encouraged as this event sells out early every year!

Join Croí on Friday, 17th October, visit www.croinightrun.ie to book your spot, the event sells out early each year, so early booking is advised.

A man arrested in connection with the seizure of multiple bladed weapons has been charged and is due to appear before the court in October.

Gardaí arrested a man in his 20s after seizing a machete, a hatchet and a knife in Ballinasloe earlier this week.

On Monday morning, at approximately 8:40am, Gardaí received a report of a man brandishing a weapon at River Street, Ballinasloe.

On arriving at the scene, Gardaí searched a car where they found the dangerous weapons.

A man in his 20s was arrested at the scene of the incident and has since been charged.

He is due to appear before Ballinasloe District Court next month.

University of Galway and the University’s Students’ Union have issued a fresh joint appeal for homeowners to consider offering a room to rent for students for the new academic year.

During the summer, the University’s Accommodation Advisory Service led the latest annual push to source and expand student rental opportunities in the region, including an awareness campaign on social media and online and a leaflet drop to 57,000 houses in Galway and Clare in August.

To date, this year, 1,768 properties have been advertised on the University’s accommodation portal Studentpad.

University of Galway is urging homeowners to consider offering a room to rent and to register with its Accommodation Advisory Service. The rent-a-room scheme offers homeowners a tax-free income of up to €14,000 per year.

To advertise with the University’s Studentpad or to find out more, homeowners and landlords can visit the information page.

Professor Ciara Meehan, Dean of Students at University of Galway, said that the University’s Accommodation Advisory Service is “committed to building the networks with the wider community”, and is ready to help year round.

“But the reality in the housing markets is that there are fewer new landlords and new properties to attract.”

“Our University has much to be proud of when it comes to the student experience – our clubs, societies, and volunteering opportunities; a community that promotes belonging and celebrates diversity; and our focus on student success.”

“Securing accommodation helps students get off to a strong start and allows them to fully engage with everything we have to offer.”

“This year we are making a further direct appeal – If you have ever thought about offering a room, or know someone who might, now is the time to act.”

“Every extra room that we can help offer counts, and your home or your spare room could be the difference between a student commuting long distances and getting the best experience and thriving through university.”

University of Galway Students’ Union President Maisie Hall said, “We are asking anyone in or around Galway city with spare rooms to please consider renting to students. Your room could be the difference between a student dropping out or continuing their studies.”

University of Galway’s dedicated Accommodation Advisory Service first embarked on awareness campaigns in 2022, with a view to providing enhanced support and advice for students as well as sourcing and expanding new accommodation options.

These campaigns and on-the-ground engagement with stakeholders in the Greater Galway region have led to a doubling of the number of rooms and properties advertised on the Studentpad portal.

The Accommodation Advisory Service also provides guidance to students on what precautions, checks and balances to consider when considering booking and agreeing a lease with a private landlord.

A new mechanism is also being introduced for landlords to verify their properties, giving students an extra level of confidence when renting.

From October 23 to November 15, four of Ireland’s top traditional artists will be performing in seven different venues across the UK and Ireland as part of the Irish Traditional Music Archive’s annual Drawing from the Well Concert Tour.

Legendary tin whistle player Mary Bergin, accordion player and singer Conor Connolly, dancer and fiddle player Caoimhe Ní Mhaolagáin and multi-instrumentalist John Blake will be joined by special guests for each night of the tour from each locality.

The second stop of the tour will be bringing the group to Galway with a concert at Amharclann Chois Fharraige, Inverin, on November 1.

This year marks the first time that the acclaimed tour will have a show outside of Ireland.

The tour will be visiting: St John’s Theatre, Listowel, Co. Kerry, October 23; Amharclann Chois Fharraige, Connemara, Co. Galway, November 1; Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare, November 2; The Sugar Club, Dublin, November 5; Duncairn Theatre, Belfast, November 8; London Irish Centre, November 13; and Belltable Theatre, Limerick, November 15.

The November 13 show in London marks the first time that a tour performance will travel outside of Ireland and marks the launch of a formal partnership between ITMA and the London Irish Centre.

Founded in 1987, the Irish Traditional Music Archive (ITMA) is home to the largest, most comprehensive collection of Irish traditional music, song, and dance in the world.

The ITMA digitises, preserves and offers free universal access to valuable recordings, photographs, manuscripts, and other archived materials that would otherwise be lost.

In doing this, ITMA also connects contemporary artists with archived materials in order to inspire new art, helping to build the living archive of the future.

Construction work has begun this week on the Bóthar Stiofáin Cycle Network Scheme in Galway City.

This project will deliver new and improved walking and cycling infrastructure along the length of Bóthar Stiofáin.

Works in the scheme include upgrades to 870m of Bothar Stiofáin between the junctions with the Rahoon Road and Western Distributor Road.

This will create segregated cycle tracks on both sides of the carriageway and add a footpath to the eastern side of the carriageway.

The project will also include four new raised zebra crossing points on the road, as well as upgraded public lighting, landscaping and drainage amendments.

The goal of the scheme is to improve safety, reduce vehicle speeds, and contribute towards an increased number of trips in the area by pedestrians and cyclists.

Work on the project began this week, and it is expected to take 12 months to complete the entire scheme.

The project is being delivered by the Active Travel Department of Galway City Council. Jons Civils Ltd. have been appointed as lead contractor, and Clifrton Scannell Emerson Associates are the consulting engineers.

The project is being funded by the National Transport Authority’s Active Travel Programme, and by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage’s Urban Regeneration Development Fund (URDF).

Galway City Council has issued a notice for a temporary swimming ban at Grattan Road and Rusheen Bay beaches this week due to bacteria.

The Swimming Ban has been put in place for both beaches due to an increase in bacteria levels detected in samples taken on Monday, September 8.

The council said that the likely cause of the elevated bacteria is contaminated urban runoff.

The swimming ban is expected to be in place for three days, with further water sampling results due on the evening of Thursday, September 11.

In the meantime people at these beaches should avoid splashing or swallowing water. People who are pregnant or have an open wound should also avoid swimming.

Anyone who has been swimming at these beaches should wash their hands before handling any food.

Last Saturday, six LauraLynn families took to the Red Carpet at the Odeon Cinema in Charlestown for one of the most magical events in the LauraLynn calendar, The LauraLynn Oscars.

The LauraLynn Oscars is a digital storytelling initiative providing LauraLynn children with life-limiting conditions and their families a platform to create their own unique movie while supported by industry professional writers.

It culminates in a glamorous red-carpet event, offering a once-in-lifetime movie premiere experience for the entire family.

Lórcan Donoghue (15), from Furbo, uses LauraLynn’s services. Lorcan’s family attended the event and collected the award on behalf of Lorcán.

Unfortunately, Lorcán was unable to attend the event on the day. He and his family took part in the project and took home the award for Best Adventure Movie for his movie titled ‘Lórcan’s Musical Treasure,’ which he starred in alongside his family.

Aoife Donoghue, Lórcan’s mum, spoke after attending the awards ceremony, saying, “The day was so special and we are so proud of Lórcan. We all had such a magical time.”

The idea for the Oscars Project, which is now in its 8th year, began as a film workshop for siblings, which LauraLynn Senior Play Therapist Michelle Hartnett, organised after researching the topic of sibling loss. The project quickly developed into a larger family-focused event.

The project is coordinated by Michelle Hartnett and Project Coordinator, Lorna Collins with support from long standing LauraLynn volunteer Joanna Butler and a team of industry professionals and volunteers.

Michelle Harnett, Senior Play Therapist at LauraLynn, said, “The LauraLynn Oscars is a truly unique therapeutic initiative that goes far beyond traditional filmmaking.”

“It offers families an extraordinary opportunity to explore their relationships, share creative stories, and collaborate in ways they may never have imagined.”

“With guidance from experts across different disciplines, each family becomes the creator of their own cinematic masterpiece.”

“This project is about so much more than making a film; it’s about building deeper connections, creating lasting memories, and strengthening the bonds between family members, extended family, and the wider community.”

The experience culminates in a spectacular Oscars style celebration, where families proudly showcase their films and share in the joy of recognising each other’s creativity and contributions.

“It’s a powerful celebration of unity, imagination, and the enduring strength of family bonds,” Michelle added.

“What makes this initiative so important is that it empowers families to become active storytellers and see their own narratives come alive on screen.”

“Most importantly, it gives the families and their guests a magical day to stand in the spotlight together, creating moments of joy and beauty that will be cherished for a lifetime.”

LauraLynn’s holistic approach to care ensures they support the whole family, enabling patients to be children and parents to have time to be Mums and Dads rather than full-time carers. Care and support are extended to parents, siblings, grandparents, and the wider family.

LauraLynn currently provides support to 23 families across Galway with a hub based in Ballinasloe.

People in Galway City are being advised to take care near the coastline this week due to a High Tide Advisory Warning.

Met Éireann has advised that Highest Astronomical Tide levels are forecast to be approached or exceeded along all coasts.

This is due to a combination of forecasted storm surge, tidal prediction and wave action.

This warning is now in effect and will be in place until 11pm on Thursday night.

The city council is advising people to take care along the coast due to a significant risk of wave overtopping this week.

Motorists are advised to exercise extreme caution when parking near coastal areas.

Access to Toft Car Park in Salthill is restricted during the period of the high tide advisory.

An 80 year old man reported missing in Galway City this week has been found safe and well.

Gardaí made a public appeal for information that could help locate Daniel Slyne (80) on Tuesday.

Slyne had been reported missing from the Salthill/Knocknacarra area of Galway City since Monday morning.

It has been confirmed this evening that he has since been found safe and well.

An Garda Síochána thanked the public for their assistance in this matter.

Jigsaw, the youth mental health charity, has launched its annual Swim for Jigsaw fundraiser taking place in Galway this month.

This is a sea swimming initiative designed to bring communities together to boost mental wellbeing while raising vital funds to support their free therapy and support services in Galway.

Jigsaw provides early intervention mental health services for 12–25-year-olds in Ireland. By delivering free, timely, and accessible support, Jigsaw helps young people build resilience and face life’s challenges with confidence.

Earlier this year, new research found that open-water swimming significantly elevates psychological wellbeing.

A major international study involving 1,200 outdoor swims across 19 countries has found that swimming in natural open-water environments delivers measurably higher wellbeing than swimming in open-air pools.

This is thanks to increased feelings of autonomy and competence when swimming in the open water.

These factors, central to Self-Determination Theory, contribute to greater happiness, wellbeing, and satisfaction.

Marie Hehir at Jigsaw said, “Galway has such an active sea-swimming community, so we see the benefits that taking a brave plunge into the sea can have.”

A quick swim in the Atlantic can bring calm, clarity, and confidence, and it’s amazing to see some research to back this up.”

“Swim for Jigsaw gives people an incredible opportunity to connect, feel supported, while at the same time fundraise for youth mental health in Galway.”

The event will take place on Saturday, September 20 at Blackrock Diving Tower in Salthill, with all participants welcome.

The event is open to all, individuals, families, clubs, and schools across Galway. To take part, just register at www.jigsaw.ie/swim and get fundraising.

Details of the day: 

• 9:30 am: Registration: Come by our information table to register for the swim, learn more about Jigsaw, and leave a positive message at our interactive creative station
• 10:10am: Warm up – Yoga movement & Breathwork with Marhehiryoga
• 10:30 am: Swim begins on beach to the left-hand side of Blackrock Cottage as your coming from the city side of the Promenade.
• After the swim: Warm up with complimentary teas, coffees, hot chocolates and treats from our wonderful partners in Blackrock Cottage and join us for a get-together to celebrate our community and youth mental health.

Gardaí are seeking the public’s help in locating 80-year-old Denis Slyne who has been missing in Galway City since Monday morning.

Denis was last seen in the Knocknacarra area at approximately 11:30am on Monday, September 8.

He is described as being approximately 5 feet 11 inches in height, of slim build, with grey/bald hair and green eyes.

When last seen, Denis was wearing a blue jacket with a black line running down the arm, a white cap and brown pants.

Both Gardaí and Denis’ family are concerned for his welfare.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Gardaí in Bóthar na Trá/Salthill on 091 514720, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

There are now 10,000 homes, farms, and businesses in Galway connected to high-speed fibre broadband as part of the National Broadband Plan.

National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company delivering the NBP, announced that 10,000 properties in Galway have been connected out of the almost 29,600 which can avail of fibre today.

41,000 premises in Co. Galway are included in the State’s Intervention Area, which will see NBI deliver minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second to local homes, businesses, farms and schools.

As the biggest investment in rural Ireland since rural electrification, Co. Galway will receive €153M of Government investment under the National Broadband Plan.

One family, the Curleys of Ballagh, said that getting high-speed fibre has helped with their home life by enabling remote working, and making it easier for multiple people to be connected at the same time.

“Working from the home office has saved us about two hours of a commute every day which allows us to spend more time with the kids, and we can get them to activities in the evening we wouldn’t have been able to make before,” Ruth Curley said.

“They were also previously unable to access some online educational resources and now they can get the full benefit, so high-speed broadband has been hugely positive for them.”

Damien Curley said: “Before connecting to network, our download speeds were slow and unreliable. Now with NBI’s fibre broadband, our speeds are 100 times faster.”

“The lads are delighted as they can use the Playstation, and we can be on whatever devices we need without any shouting matches. We now know what a true internet connection is like with no breakdowns or glitches.”

TJ Malone, Chief Executive Officer, National Broadband Ireland, said, “It’s encouraging to hear the real impact of high-speed broadband on customers like Ruth and Damien.”

“Stories like these demonstrate the importance of reliable fibre broadband for rural communities in Co Galway and across Ireland. ”