The Gallery Cafe in Gort unveils exciting new menus and an Autumn wine shop

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October 5, 2023

Galway Daily sport Mack Hansen ruled out of Six Nations 2024 due to surgery — Mack Hansen. Photo: INPHO

Bundee Aki and Mack Hansen will both be starting against Scotland this weekend, with Finlay Bealham among the replacements for the matchday squad.

Head Coach Andy Farrell has named his Ireland squad to face Scotland in Saturday’s final Rugby World Cup Pool B clash in Paris.

Following wins over Romania, Tonga and South Africa, Ireland conclude their Pool campaign against Gregor Townsend‘s side at Stade de France on Saturday night.

There’s still everything to play for, with Ireland, South Africa, and Scotland all still vying for one of two places out of the group stages.

Peter O’Mahony is set to win his 100th cap for Ireland as he starts in the back row, with the 34-year-old in line to become just the 10th Irish player to reach the landmark.

Hugo Keenan, Mack Hansen and James Lowe start in an unchanged Ireland back three, with Garry Ringrose and Bundee Aki continuing in the midfield. Captain Johnny Sexton partners Jamison Gibson-Park once again in the half-backs.

Up front, Andrew Porter and Tadhg Furlong pack down either side of Dan Sheehan, with Tadhg Beirne and Iain Henderson named in the second row. O’Mahony, Josh van der Flier and Caelan Doris complete the starting XV.

The fit-again Jack Conan is in line for his first appearance of Rugby World Cup 2023 as he’s named on the replacements bench, joining forwards Ronan Kelleher, David Kilcoyne, Finlay Bealham and James Ryan, while Conor Murray, Jack Crowley and Stuart McCloskey provide the backline reinforcements.

Saturday’s match is live on Virgin Media One in the Republic of Ireland and ITV1 in the United Kingdom, with kick-off at 8pm Irish Time.

Ireland (v Scotland):

15. Hugo Keenan (Leinster/UCD)(34)
14. Mack Hansen (Connacht/Corinthians)(19)
13. Garry Ringrose (Leinster/UCD)(55)
12. Bundee Aki (Connacht/Galwegians)(50)
11. James Lowe (Leinster)(24)
10. Johnny Sexton (Leinster/St Mary’s College)(captain)(116)
9. Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster)(28)

1. Andrew Porter (Leinster/UCD)(57)
2. Dan Sheehan (Leinster/Lansdowne)(19)
3. Tadhg Furlong (Leinster/Clontarf)(70)
4. Tadhg Beirne (Munster/Lansdowne)(44)
5. Iain Henderson (Ulster/Academy)(77)
6. Peter O’Mahony (Munster/Cork Constitution)(99)
7. Josh van der Flier (Leinster/UCD)(55)
8. Caelan Doris (Leinster/St Mary’s College)(34)

Replacements:

16. Ronan Kelleher (Leinster/Lansdowne)(24)
17. David Kilcoyne (Munster/UL Bohemians)(54)
18. Finlay Bealham (Connacht/Buccaneers)(34)
19. James Ryan (Leinster/UCD)(58)
20. Jack Conan (Leinster/Old Belvedere)(39)
21. Conor Murray Munster/Garryowen)(110)
22. Jack Crowley (Munster/Cork Constitution)(8)
23. Stuart McCloskey (Ulster/Bangor)(14).

Galway company Joulica creating 40 new jobs

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October 5, 2023

6-people-at-Joulica — Anne Lanigan, Divisional Manager, Technology and Services at Enterprise Ireland; Diarmuid Leonard, Principal Engineer at Joulica; Joe Smyth, CTO at Joulica; Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney, TD; Tony McCormack, CEO at Joulica; Niall McEvoy, Venture Partner at Elkstone. Photo: Fennell Photography

Galway based analytics company Joulica will be creating 40 new jobs over the next three years following a funding round.

The company, which provides analytics solutions for the customer experience market, announced the new jobs for Galway today.

This follows a funding round to drive expansion of the company, which was led by Elkstone Partners and backed by Enterprise Ireland.

Tony McCormack, CEO of Joulica said, “We are delighted to announce this expansion, with the support of both Elkstone and Enterprise Ireland, as we strive to become the leading real time analytics solution provider.”

“This growth will accelerate our product development roadmap, facilitate customer base and partner expansion, attract top-tier talent, and allow us to continue our mission of allowing organisations to deliver superior customer experiences fueled by real time analytics.”

Jobs will be added across all functions including product development, sales and marketing and customer success.

The new roles will bring the total of people employed by the Galway based company to 70.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment Simon Coveney said, “There are exciting times ahead for the talented team at Joulica as they continue with their exciting expansion plans.”

“The Galway-based company, who plan to employ 40 additional people locally, has a well-earned reputation for service and delivery for their customers.”

“I also want to commend the team on its recent successful funding round, which will support the company’s significant growth plans and global ambition.”

Anne Lanigan of Enterprise Ireland added that they were, “very impressed by the Joulica team and the progress it has made to develop a market ready and proven platform and achieve significant market traction.”

“In addition to this equity investment, Enterprise Ireland looks forward to supporting the company to globalise its business model, with support through our unique network of 39 international offices, growing highly skilled jobs from the company’s Galway-based headquarters”.

WYLDE Café launch convenient Click & Collect service

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October 5, 2023

WYLDE Café launch convenient Click & Collect service

WYLDE café and delicatessen have launched their very own Click & Collect service, making it easier for customers to browse on the go, choose what they like best, and collect it from the Forster Street location.

WYLDE is a high-end café and delicatessen that offers eco-friendly bites, nourishing treats, wholesome meals, and more.

Customers will be able to devour the WYLDE side of Galway’s culinary scene by exploring the various menu options through WYLDE’s Click & Collect website.

The website offers a user-friendly experience for anyone to easily find what they like best before collecting from WYLDE in no time at all.

Freshly made pastries and delicious overnight oats ideal for breakfasts on-the-go; delectable signature sandwiches crafted with fresh, local ingredients make for enjoyable lunches; and zesty salad bowls seasoned to perfection are tantalising treats worth savouring.

Through WYLDE’s Click & Collect service, customers can also grab refreshing beverages like a HYDE still water to accompany their choice of food.

Or, while collecting their order from WYLDE, they can let The Dock’s amazing baristas magic-up a brew that’s just perfect.

“We are delighted to welcome WYLDE’s Click & Collect service,” said Roisín McGee, HYDE & WYLDE General Manager.

“It’s the ideal way to discover all WYLDE has to offer on the go, ordering and collecting couldn’t be easier.”

“Using it is a breeze, simply place your order online, call in, and collect. Perfect for all, especially if you are in a hurry or in between meetings,” she added.

Located on Forster Street, right beside HYDE Hotel, WYLDE café and delicatessen is a fabulous place for almost any meal of the day.

Woman (70s) in critical condition after house fire

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October 5, 2023

Galway daily news Three people hospitalised after Galway City house fire

Two people have been hospitalised, one in critical condition, after a house fire ravaged a home in the Barna area last night.

Gardai and fire services remain at the scene of the fire in the Boleybeg area of Barna.

The house fire occurred at approximately 10:40pm on Wednesday night.

Two people, a man and a woman both aged in their 70s, were conveyed to Galway University Hospital for treatment.

The woman is understood to be in critical condition at this time.

An Garda Síochána have said that the scene of the fire has been preserved for technical examination.

No further information is available at this time.

Burst mains affecting water supply on west side of Galway City

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October 5, 2023

Galway Daily news https://www.water.ie/?map=supply-and-service-updates

A burst water mains may water outages and supply disruptions to homes on the west side of Galway City this morning.

The burst mains on the Letteragh Road is causing supply disruptions to homes and businesses in the surrounding areas.

Repair works are currently underway and are scheduled to be completed by 4pm on Thursday afternoon.

It may take 2 – 3 hours after these repairs are completed before people see their full water supply restored.

Updates can be found on Irish Water’s supply and service website page.

Mobile Water Treatment Plant built in Galway headed to war-torn Ukraine

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October 5, 2023

A self-contained water treatment plant capable of supplying 6,200 people has been built in Galway to help out in war-torn Ukraine.

Coffey Construction in Athenry have built the fully containerised water treatment plant (WTP) on behalf of Uisce Éireann, and its due to make its way to Ukraine shortly.

In response to urgent calls for support, Uisce Éireann donated two containerised WTP systems in 2022 with a third now ready for shipping.

The self-contained unit is capable of treating up to 40,000 litres per hour which will supply 6,200 people, or the equivalent of 1.6million one-litre bottles of clean water, per day.

Minister of State and Galway TD Anne Rabbitte commended Uisce Éireann for providing continuing support for Ukraine.

“This exemplifies the many ways Ireland, through its people and its state agencies, is showing its solidarity with the people of Ukraine in their time of need.”

“This donation demonstrates collaborative approaches to providing practical and important solutions to support the Ukrainian people. These water units will benefit thousands who are struggling to source fresh, safe drinking water.”

The water treatment unit contains the filters, backwash pump and UV reactors required to fully treat drinking water, along with all the other necessary pipework and equipment to quickly make it operational.

In addition, contact details are provided in English and Ukrainian for any queries which will be provided at no cost by Coffey in Galway.

A fourth containerised WTP system, with an even greater treatment capacity of 120,000 litres per hour, will be donated in the coming months.

With an estimated 1.4 million people have no access to safe running water across Eastern Ukraine alone, according to a recent report from UNICEF, Uisce Éireann is proud to offer assistance.

Niall Gleeson, Uisce Éireann’s Chief Executive Officer said, “Access to safe water is a fundamental human need, and we can often take for granted given our access to fresh and safe water here in Ireland.”

“We know that the situation in Ukraine has resulted in water supply being disrupted entirely or severely polluted, meaning it is unsafe for drinking. We hope our donation of these units will play a role to help some of the people suffering in Ukraine access safe water.”

Planning appeal against rejection of Athenry residential development

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October 5, 2023

Galway Daily news Green light for new apartment complex in Rahoon

A planning appeal has been lodged against the county council’s rejection of a residential development of 72 houses and apartments in Athenry.

Bellerin 3A Limited is seeking approval for the construction of 30 houses and 42 apartments on a 2.66ha site at Prospect, Athenry.

The proposed mix of housing in the plans is for 20 one-bed and 22 two-bed apartments spread across nine two-storey blocks, along with 8 two-bed houses, 21 three-bed houses, and 1 four-bed house.

The county council refused planning at the end of August, noting that the site on the south-western edge of Athenry is not currently zoned for development.

The decision also stated that the proposed estate lacked sufficient pedestrian and cycling connectivity to the wider urban area, and would therefore pose a risk to pedestrians and other road users.

The council also stated that the proposed density and configuration of the estate would not relate to the surrounding area, and had insufficient central and usable public and communal spaces.

The decision has now been appealed to An Bord Pleanála, which is due to make a decision on the case by February 2 of 2024.

The appeal states that the draft 2023 – 2029 Local Area Plan for Athenry had not yet been adopted at the time the decision was made, and that the land was zoned residential in the previous plan.

It also argues that a proposed realignment to the Prospect Road to create an entrance would include the addition of a footpath where there currently is none.

The developer also argues that the proposed density of 30.1 units per hectare is consistent with national guidelines.

Answers still neeeded on new forestry programme says TD

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October 4, 2023

Local TD Claire Kerrane has called on Minister Pippa Hackett to provide clarity on outstanding matters relating to the new Forestry programme.

The new programme received Cabinet approval on 6 September and applications can now be made to the new €308 million Afforestation Scheme under the 2023-2027 programme.

However, Deputy Kerrane said that outstanding queries remain about aspects of the programme and that representatives from the forestry sector have stated that greater communication is needed with farmers and foresters.

“Representatives from the forestry sector have raised concerns with me around ongoing issues with licensing,” said the Sinn Féin TD.

“There appears to be no licence plan in place yet for the remainder of 2023, or for 2024. In addition, there is little sign of clear timelines around licensing improving and no commitments on this matter from the Minister.”

Deputy Kerrane said that as those representing the sector have noted, the new programme runs the risk of being plagued by the same issues as the previous programme if licences are still preventing uptake in the scheme.

“This is really disappointing, and the Minister should prioritise addressing licensing processes, given the impact of significant backlogs on the forestry sector in recent years,” she said.

“I understand that the Department has held a series of information sessions, but confusion remains around the programme and new rules. A lack of clarity will not encourage uptake amongst farmers and forestry landowners, or help us meet the afforestation target of 8,000ha per year.”

Galway students bring creative thinking skills home from Denmark

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October 4, 2023

galway daily news galway students taking part in eu creative thinking project — Coláiste Muire Máthair students (l-r) Chelsea Mashasi, Oliwia Miczal, Daehan Coll and Samuel Shomefun, who attended the EU Bang project in Denmark.

A team of students and teachers from a Galway school have returned home from a trip to Denmark, where they were the only Irish students to take part in a five-day creative thinking workshop.

The team from Coláiste Muire Máthair took part in EU Bang’s Innovation Week, an initiative led by the creative leadership school Kaospilot in Denmark and supported in Ireland by The B!G Idea, Ireland’s nationwide free creative thinking initiative for students aged 15 to 19 years.

EU Bang aims to support the development of creative thinking skills in the classroom. Creative thinking is one of the world’s most in-demand skills according to the World Economic Forum’s ‘Future of Jobs Report 2023′.

The students went to the Educational Innovation Festival in Aarhus, Denmark to workshop with learners and teachers from Italy, Denmark, Croatia and Greece during the country’s Innovation Week.

They also worked on testing a new, open-source digital learning resource for teachers called The Learning Framework, designed to support teachers to bring creativity into the classroom.

Their teacher Sinéad Phillips said the entire experience has boosted the students’ confidence, communication skills and independence.

“The skills they have taken from the different activities and challenges will benefit them not only in future school projects but well into their adult lives,” she said.

Ms Phillips says the initiative taught her that there was no wrong way to approach a project when teaching creative thinking skills.

“We have to work to not shut down all different approaches immediately because they don’t fit the exam model. As teachers…we have to improve on scaffolding students in the approaches so they can eventually follow their own thinking to the answer.”

Student Daehan Coll, who took part in the EU Bang Innovation Week, said it is vital that young people learn creative thinking skills.

“There are many challenges in life. If young people can think creatively, this will help them to come up with solutions to their problems they might not see initially.”

He said creative thinking is about using different ways to make sure you see a challenge from all sides and perspectives.

“I have learned not to give up if I can’t find the answer on the first go. I try a different way and try to see it from another perspective so I can find a solution. I now find challenges less intimidating.”

Kaospilot worked with The B!G Idea in Ireland and three other educational institutions across Europe to develop the free, open-source digital learning framework for an EU community of educators and learners.

The framework, found at banglearningframework.eu, offers teachers a guide to bring creative thinking into their classrooms.

Creative thinking is a vital tool for students, said Siobhan Blaney, Head of Education with The B!G Idea.

“It boosts motivation, builds confidence and resilience, enhances problem-solving skills and improves academic outcomes. The B!G Idea, with its focus on equitable access to creative-thinking education, was delighted to contribute our expertise and experience to the EU Bang project.”

The Galway students and teachers will share their insights into the project at an event called ‘Exploring The Future of Youth Education with BANG’ on 10 October, which is also part of Erasmus Days, a European celebration of learning.

To register to attend the event, email siobhan@thebigidea.ie.

Great opportunity for Galway primary school students with bright ideas

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October 4, 2023

galway daily news primary science fair applications open — Pictured are primary school students Olivia Leonord (age 9); Conor O'Toole (age 12), and May Hanrahan (age 9) announcing that applications are now open for the Primary Science Fair. Pic:Naoise Culhane

BT Ireland is searching for the next generation of young scientists in Ireland, with applications now officially open for the Primary Science Fair.

The Primary Science fair will run alongside the 60^th BTYSTE and takes place in early January 2024 in Dublin.

Third to sixth class students are encouraged to come together and turn their curiosity into projects for the opportunity to represent their school at the 2024 Primary Science Fair.

Class sizes of up to 30 students are eligible to enter and schools must submit their entries by Monday, October 23 at 5pm.

The projects can explore a wide range of interesting scientific areas from living things, environmental awareness and care, energy forces to the make-up of materials.

If more than one of these areas interest students, the good news is schools can enter multiple times.

Participating schools will find out in November if they will be showcasing their projects at the Primary Science Fair in January 2023.

Speaking ahead of the BTYSTE 2024 deadline, Mari Cahalane, head of the BTYSTE, said that the Primary Science Fair is an opportunity for curious young minds to explore and participate in the world of science in a fun way.

“At BT Ireland, it is our mission to give young people the opportunity to explore the wonders of science, and welcome some of the brightest young minds of tomorrow to the Primary Science Fair in Dublin this January,” said Mari.

For more information on the Primary Science Fair at BTYSTE 2024, visit https://btyoungscientist.com/the-primary-science-fair-at-btyste/

Killary Fjord Boat Tours attends largest French travel exhibition

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October 4, 2023

galway daily news killary fjord boat tours in paris france — Emilie Guillaume, Tourism Ireland; and Mícheál Ó Cionna, Killary Fjord Boat Tours, at IFTM Top Resa in Paris. Pic – Tourism Ireland

Killary Fjord Boat Tours are among 14 Irish tourism companies joining Tourism Ireland at IFTM Top Resa, the largest travel trade exhibition in France.

The event typically attracts around 30,000 visitors including influential tour operators and travel agents, as well as business tourism decision-makers and leading French travel journalists.

The three-day event is a valuable opportunity for Killary Fjord Boat Tours and the other participating companies from Ireland to meet and do business with key players in the French travel trade.

An event will take place on the Tourism Ireland stand to highlight the tenth anniversary of the Wild Atlantic Way in 2024.

Guests will enjoy produce from the Wild Atlantic Way – including Burren Smokehouse salmon, Burren Gold cheese and White Hag beer – as well as a performance of traditional Irish music.

Monica MacLaverty, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Southern Europe, said that their presence at IFTM is a wonderful opportunity for our partners from Connemara and Ireland to showcase their product and connect with leading French travel professionals.

Tourism Ireland’s aim is to capture the attention of the tour operators, travel agents and journalists attending IFTM this week,” she said.

“France is one of the top four markets for tourism to Ireland and Tourism Ireland is rolling out an extensive and targeted programme of promotions in France this autumn – aimed at boosting late season travel and positioning us well for 2024.”

In 2019, the island of Ireland welcomed 557,000 visitors from France, whose visits contributed €283 million to the economy.

Major conference on academic integrity taking place in Galway

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October 4, 2023

A major international conference on academic and research integrity is taking place in Galway this week, hosted by University of Galway in partnership with the National Academic Integrity Network (NAIN).

Students, researchers, academics and professional staff will get the opportunity to come together to think about what practical steps are needed to maintain integrity in higher education.

Some of the themes to be featured at the conference include ChatGPT, Google Translate, DALL-E and reviewing approaches to academic and research misconduct.

The conference also aims to offer practical guidance and support, and to make connections across the themes and further strengthen communities of practice.

It is taking place at the Galmont Hotel in Galway city from today, Wednesday, until Friday. Registration, conference programme and further details are available here.

Deputy President and Registrar, Professor Pól Ó Dochartaigh, said that the start of a new academic year is an opportune time to reflect on the core principles of higher education.

“Together, we face the task of coming to grips with the challenges to research, teaching, and learning posed by generative artificial intelligence, and this conference provides a perfect venue for members of the university community to gather and to consider what we can do to maintain the highest standards of integrity in our education and qualifications,” he said.

Dr Billy Kelly, Chair of the National Academic Integrity Network, said that they are pleased to co-host this conference with University of Galway.

“At the current time, advancements in technology challenge current teaching, learning and assessment practices and these challenges have significant actual and potential consequences for both academic and research integrity.

“The conference will be an opportunity to learn from international and national leaders in this space, with all participants taking away tangible and actionable insights to discuss within their own organisations and communities of practice.”

Where To Go For an Irish Casino Vacation

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Thomas O'Brien

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October 4, 2023

Ireland is one of the most beautiful vacation destinations in the world. There are many extraordinary experiences to look forward to when visiting Ireland. If you’re a gambler, visiting the Irish casinos should be one of them.

Today, most people gamble online in their daily lives and go to land-based casinos on special occasions and vacations. At both online and land-based casinos, slots are by far the most popular game. At online casinos like Slotbox, you can find slot machines with many different themes and features. When going to land-based casinos, you won’t find as many options, but you’ll definitely get an Irish night to remember instead.

Playland Casino in Dublin

One of Ireland’s most visited casinos is Playland Casino, located in Dublin. Even though it doesn’t have the biggest gaming floor in the city, it definitely has one of the best ones. Here you’ll find everything you could be looking for. They have a wide variety of games and tournaments for you to try out. It’s located close to the city, making it easily accessible when visiting Dublin.

The Sporting Emporium in Dublin

Another popular casino in the capital is The Sporting Emporium. You’ll get a unique atmosphere similar to the one you’ll find at The Hippodrome in London. It’s located at the core of the city centre at a perfect location, offering a slice of Irish Las Vegas. Besides the atmosphere, you’ll find all the classic casinos and much more.

Macau Sporting Club in Cork

If you’re visiting Cork, you should do yourself a favour and visit Macau Sporting Club. It’s a modern casino where you can explore both the classics and the newer casino favourites. There’s no dress code, so you can wear casual on your vacation if you please. Macau Sporting Club specialises in poker tournaments, so if you love a good game of poker, this is definitely a great destination. The casino is no less than 1,200 square metres, so there’s plenty of fun to explore here in Cork.

In conclusion

Embarking on an Irish casino vacation promises an unforgettable blend of thrilling gaming experiences and the enchanting beauty of the Emerald Isle. From the lively Playland Casino in Dublin to the sophisticated Sporting Emporium, the Irish gaming scene has much to offer.

Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or simply looking to try your luck, these establishments provide a taste of Irish hospitality combined with the excitement of casino gaming. So, as you plan your next vacation to Ireland, consider adding a visit to these casinos to your itinerary. Sláinte (cheers) to an Irish casino vacation filled with luck and adventure!

Tuam Bypass closing for maintenance roadworks

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October 3, 2023

Galway Daily news Roadworks to disrupt traffic near Portumna on Tuesday

There will be an overnight road closure of the Tuam Bypass on Tuesday evening in order to allow roadworks to take place.

Routine maintenance works are being carried out on the Bypass by Colas Roadbridge (CRJV).

In order to facilitate these works, the road will be closed in both directions from 7pm tonight until 6am on Wednesday morning.

Traffic will be diverted through Tuam town during these hours.

More substantial roadworks are expected to cause considerable disruption on the Tuam Bypass when they begin two weeks from now.

Resurfacing works are scheduled to take place for two and a half weeks from Monday, October 16 until Friday, November 3.

In order to facilitate these roadworks, the Bypass will be closed from 7pm to 6am each night.

Galway medtech company progressing clinical trial of thumb joint replacement implant

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October 3, 2023

Galway based medtech company Loci Orthopaedics expects to have news about its thumb joint implant next year, having completed enrollment of a clinical trial feasibility study.

Loci Orthopaedics has developed a thumb joint replacement implant, and is now conducting a 15-patient trial for the InDx Implant System.

The Thumb Hemi-Arthroplasty with Natural Kinematics (THANKS) study is looking at the surgical implantation of the device as well as improvements in pain, grip, and quality of life for those affected by thumb base joint arthritis.

Dr. Brendan Boland, Executive Chairperson of Loci Orthopaedics, said, “Thumb base joint arthritis is a very prevalent and disabling condition that needs a better surgical solution.”

“It is a significant milestone for the company to achieve completed enrolment of this clinical study,” he added.

“The company is very grateful to the study participants who are supporting the development of a much-needed new treatment option. We look forward to completing follow-up and reporting on the results next year.”

The dexterity of the thumb joint comes with an increased risk of arthritis over time where the joint where the thumb meets the trapezium bone in the wrist.

Thumb arthritis is common with aging and occurs when cartilage wears away from the ends of the bones that form the joint at the base of the thumb.

It is estimated that 5% of the population have symptomatic thumb base joint arthritis which causes significant hand pain and has a major negative impact on quality of life.

The InDx Implant created by Loci is the first ever implant for the base join of the thumb that fully mimics the movement of the natural joint.

Last year, Loci Orthopaedics was one of four Irish companies selected to share in €23 million in EU Accelerator funding to help complete their clinical trials.

Barry Russell, Chief Executive Officer of Loci Orthopaedics, said, “There is a significant unmet clinical need to provide an evidence-based surgical solution for this condition.”

“This study will help demonstrate the feasibility of this implant use as well as the positive clinical outcomes that an evidence-based solution can bring.”

GRETB awarded €190,000 for facilities upgrades

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October 3, 2023

Galway Daily news GRETB awarded €190,000 for facilities upgrades

The Galway & Roscommon Education and Training Board has been allocated €190,000 in capital grants for improvements to their facilities.

Minister Simon Harris has announced a further €5.4 million in funding under the Devolved Capital Grant for 14 ETBs.

This money will go a total of 127 projects related to health and safety issues, small-scale energy efficiency measures, equipment and requests relating to positive improvements for learning spaces.

“This funding will be welcome news to the FET sector and will help deliver on ETBs ambitious plans for the future,” Simon Harris said.

“Over 120 projects across the country have been approved. Each will have a meaningful impact on students and their learning experience.”

“Today’s extra cash injection adds to the €8 million euro my Department issued to the ETBs in April under the Devolved Capital Grant.”

Last April, the GRETB received just over half a million euro in funding under the same grant scheme.

SOLAS, the state agency in charge of overseeing the Further Education & Training sector in Ireland, will be in charge of distributing the funding.

“On behalf of the SOLAS Board, we warmly welcome the ongoing commitment by Government to capital investment in the Further Education and Training Sector,” said SOLAS Chairperson Sean Aylward.

“This funding in the form of devolved capital grants for the Education and Training Boards across the country will go a long way towards improving the facilities available to learners in the FET sector and to work towards achievement of the sustainability targets set forward in the Climate Action Plan.”

Planning sought for massive Athenry medical devices factory

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October 3, 2023

Green light for Medtech factory bringing 1,000 jobs to Athenry

Planning permission is being sought for a massive medical devices manufacturing facility in Athenry which will employ hundreds of people.

Dexcom International is seeking the county council’s approval for a four-storey development on the south-west outskirts of Athenry.

The 32.5ha site is part of an IDA landbank which currently consists of fields, but is zoned for Business & Technology use by the Athenry Local Area Plan

The 40,227 sqm development will encompass warehousing, production areas, administration offices, and a restaurant for staff members.

A new main vehicular entrance onto the R348 roundabout at the northern corner of the site will be built, along with multiple pedestrian entrances.

The facility will also feature 500 car parking spaces, with 100 EV charging stations, along with 178 bicycle spaces and 10 motorbike spaces.

Parking on the site will be split between four lots to reduce its visual impact, with tree planting to further screen them from view.

Significant landscaping work is also included in the plans, with green areas and tree planting along the boundary, and much of the northern half of the site given over to meadowland to increase biodiversity.

A 2.1km walking trail will also be created around the boundary of the site, passing through the various landscaped areas.

A Design Statement for the project said that it will provide huge amounts of employment for the area, with roughly 891 people working there each day.

The project was first announced back in May 2023, with the €300 million investment expected to bring up to 1,000 jobs to the area when it is at full capacity.

While being built, Dexcom estimated that the development would support approximately 500 construction jobs in the region.

“With the continued success of our Dexcom G7 in Europe, we are pursuing an ambitious growth strategy that requires increased manufacturing capacity to support our rapidly expanding European user base,” said Barry Regan, Executive Vice President of Global Operations at Dexcom at the time.

“Ireland has an exceptional talent pool and an established MedTech sector, making Athenry the perfect location for us to establish a new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.”

Cllr Michael (Moegie) Maher, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, described the announcement as a “game-changer for Athenry and the Galway economy”.

He expressed his hope that the investment by Dexcom will encourage other multinationals to consider the West of Ireland as an investment location.

“This announcement is a massive shot in the arm for the local economy,” added Cllr Maher.

A decision on this planning application is due from Galway County Council by October 25 of this year.

A Day at the Races: Galway’s Premier Betting Events and Festivals

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Angela Mc Bride

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October 3, 2023

Galway, nestled on the picturesque west coast of Ireland, is not only renowned for its stunning landscapes but also for its vibrant horse racing scene. The city hosts a series of premier betting events and festivals that draw racing enthusiasts from far and wide. This article will delve into the rich tapestry of Galway’s racing calendar, exploring the events, traditions, and the thrill of betting against the backdrop of this charming Irish city.

The Galway Races: A Time-Honored Tradition

A Brief History

The Galway Races, steeped in history dating back to the early 18th century, have evolved into a world-class racing event. Held at the iconic Ballybrit Racecourse, the Galway Races span seven days, making it one of the most extended racing festivals in Ireland. The event typically takes place in late July or early August and encompasses a diverse range of races, each with its own unique character and challenge.

The Atmosphere and Excitement

The Galway Races, steeped in history dating back to the early 18th century, have evolved into a world-class racing event. Held at the iconic Ballybrit Racecourse, the Galway Races span seven days, making it one of the most extended racing festivals in Ireland. The event typically takes place in late July or early August and encompasses a diverse range of races, each with its own unique character and challenge. For those looking to add an extra layer of excitement to the races, the availability of a 5 pound deposit casino nearby offers an additional opportunity for entertainment and wagering.

The Variety of Races

Flat Racing and National Hunt

The Galway Races showcase both flat racing and National Hunt (jump racing), providing a diverse array of challenges for horses and jockeys alike. The flat races, characterized by their fast-paced sprints, test the speed and endurance of the horses. On the other hand, National Hunt races introduce hurdles and steeplechases, demanding a different set of skills from the competitors.

The Prestigious Galway Plate and Hurdle

Two of the most prestigious races at the Galway Races are the Galway Plate and the Galway Hurdle. The Galway Plate, a steeplechase, is known for attracting top-class horses and jockeys, and it remains one of the highlights of the festival. The Galway Hurdle, a handicap hurdle race, offers a thrilling spectacle as horses navigate a series of hurdles on the track.

Betting at the Galway Races

The Thrill of Wagering

Betting is an integral part of the Galway Races experience. Whether one is a seasoned punter or a casual observer, the thrill of placing a bet and watching the race unfold is an adrenaline-pumping experience. The range of betting options, from straightforward win bets to more complex accumulators, caters to a diverse audience of racing enthusiasts.

Tips, Odds, and Form Analysis

For those looking to make informed wagers, studying form guides, understanding odds, and seeking expert tips can enhance the betting experience. Professional analysts and seasoned racegoers offer insights into the form and performance of horses, providing valuable information for making educated bets.

Beyond the Galway Races: Other Betting Events

The Galway Festival

While the Galway Races are undoubtedly the pinnacle of racing events in the city, Galway plays host to various other racing festivals throughout the year. These events offer a similar blend of racing excitement, social interaction, and betting opportunities. From the September meeting to special themed race days, there are ample opportunities to experience the thrill of horse racing in Galway.

Conclusion

A day at the races in Galway is a unique and unforgettable experience, blending the excitement of horse racing with the rich cultural heritage of the city. The Galway Races, with their storied history and electrifying atmosphere, stand as the centerpiece of Galway’s racing calendar. Whether one is a seasoned punter or a casual spectator, the thrill of watching majestic horses thunder down the track is an experience that resonates long after the final race. For those seeking the added excitement of wagering, the Galway Races offer a diverse range of betting options, ensuring that every race day is filled with anticipation and possibility. In the context of entertainment, Galway’s racing events truly shine, providing a unique blend of tradition, competition, and the thrill of betting. Whether at the Galway Races or other festivals, experiencing horse racing in Galway is an adventure that should not be missed.

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Angela Mc Bride

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October 3, 2023