Julia Morrissey Bridge petition surges past 1,500 signatures
Daíthí Ó Sé ‘delighted’ to take part in this year’s Croí Night Run
People across the West are being encouraged to register for the 9th annual Croí Night Run which will take place on Friday, 13 October.
Daíthí Ó Sé, who is a strong advocate for heart health, will be in Salthill to participate in the 5k event which raises funds and shine a light on heart health each year.
Media partner iRadio will also have the iTeam at the start line to get participants pumped and ready for another great night run.
Registration is open to people of all abilities and everyone is encouraged to get involved, young and old, family, friends, and work colleagues to run, jog or walk 5km in aid of Croí!
With thanks to Benecol, 100% of the proceeds will go directly to supporting Croí services.
This includes sustaining health and support initiatives and community programmes including a free community helpline, Croí Connects, and the Croí Courtyard Apartments, available to families in need of accommodation while their loved ones receive heart or stroke care in University Hospital Galway.
Christine Flanagan, Director of Fundraising at Croí, said: “Following a hugely successful event last year with over 2,000 participants, we continue to encourage people to take their heart health seriously for 2023 and sign up early for this year’s event to run, jog or walk 5km in aid of Croí.”
“We expect this year to be a sell out event, so we would advise early registration. We would like to thank heart health advocate Daíthí Ó’Sé, Benecol and media partner iRadio for their support.”
Heart health advocate Daíthí Ó Sé said he is delighted to participate in Croí’s 5k Night Run, where he will be taking part on team Benecol, the sponsor of this year’s run.
“Benecol wants to spread cholesterol awareness and encourage everyone to get their cholesterol levels tested,” he said.
“Lots of people are unaware that their levels are high even though it affects 60% of the Irish population.
“Take me for example, I didn’t know my cholesterol was high until I went to my annual check-up with the doctor. To get it down, I’ve been taking Benecol shots in the morning with my breakfast. It’s a simple change that’s making a big difference to my health.”
Participants will receive a special Croí Night Run Goodie Bag which will include a NEW limited-edition Croí Night Run long-sleeve running jacket and Benecol® goodies. To learn more visit: croi.ie/events and croi.ie/event/9th-annual-croi-night-run/
Over 50 patients without a bed at UHG today
There are more than 50 patients admitted at University Hospital Galway who are without a bed today.
UHG is the third most overcrowded hospital in the country today, with 44 patients on trolleys in the emergency department, and a further nine in the wards.
At Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe there are a further 11 patients admitted for whom no bed was available this morning.
Five patients are on trolleys in the ED at Portiuncula, and another six are in the wards with no beds.
Figures from the INMO Trolley/Ward Watch show a total of 501 patients admitted in Irish hospitals with no beds this morning.
University Hospital Limerick is the worst affected, with 97 patients on trolleys, followed by Cork University Hospital with 63, and UHG with 53 total.
Gardaí investigating alleged carjacking in Barna area
Gardaí are investigating reports of a carjacking in the Barna area which occurred over the weekend.
The alleged carjacking occurred in the Ballard area of Barna at approximately 8:20pm on Saturday night.
One male aged in his 40s received non-life threatening injuries as a result of this incident. He did not seek medical attention at the scene.
Gardaí have said that investigations into the incident are ongoing.
No arrests have yet been made as part of this invesitgation.
New map shows Galway Bay in unprecedented stunning detail
An incredible new map displays Galway Bay in never before seen levels of detail, including a clear picture of the land beneath the waves.
This is the first of the new Blue Scale map series of Ireland’s coastal waters, which contain unprecedented detail of the local topography, including the seabed.
This map has its origins in the INFOMAR seabed mapping programme which has been running since 2006.
They have been produced as a joint venture between the Marine Institute in Oranmore, and Geological Survey Ireland.
INFOMAR aims to map Ireland’s seabed and deliver a comprehensive baseline bathymetry dataset to underpin the future management of Ireland’s marine resource.
Galway Bay stretches for roughly 50km from Galway City at the mount of the River Corrib, out to the Aran Islands at the entrance to the bay in the west.
There are numerous small islands within the bay, of glacial origin in the inner bay, and low lying granite in Connemara to the northwest. The karst limestone hills of the Burren form the southern boundary of the bay.
The coastal parts of Galway Bay have been designated a Special Area of Conservation due to their wide range of important habitat types which include intertidal mud and sandflats, other littoral habitats, coastal lagoons, saltmarshes, turloughs, vegetated cliffs, calcareous grassland and limestone pavements.
Galway Bay offers habitat to common seals and otters, and is an important ornithological site for seabirds, waders and waterfowl.
INFOMAR is making all 18 maps available for free to the public to download in high resolution.
Follow the journey each week as a new map is released on the INFOMAR website, and join the conversation on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook.
Volunteers sought for Galway City air pollution study
Hundreds of volunteers from homes and businesses in Galway City are being sought for a study to measure air pollution in the city.
The Environmental Protection Agency and City Council are seeking the help of 500 citizen scientists to help measure the level of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) in their local area.
NO2 is air pollutant which can cause serious harm to your heart and lungs, which is mainly emitted by cars, vans and trucks.
The study will be carried out over the course of October, with all volunteers to be fully supplied with the kit they need.
Deputy Mayor of Galway City, Cllr Donal Lyons said “I am delighted to represent Galway City Council at the launch of the amazing Clean Air Together initiative, which highlights the importance of air quality in our city.”
“This initiative offers those of us who live in the city an opportunity to directly engage in the collection of air quality information and to learn what our local air quality is.”
“These results can help inform Galway City Council of NO2 levels within the city and will be combined with existing EPA air quality results to give a better picture of NO2 levels in the city.”
The volunteers who have registered for the study will be sent a kit including the measurement tube, and simple instructions on how to install it.
You will be asked to install the tube on Monday, October 2 and leave it in place for approximately four weeks. The tube will measure the levels of nitrogen dioxide – without you even knowing that it is there.
After approximately four weeks of measuring NO2 levels, the tube is posted back to the EPA, free of charge. The tube will be analysed, and results should be available early 2024.
EPA Director Micheál Lehane said, “The EPA is delighted to be bringing this exciting project to Galway city to measure nitrogen dioxide (NO2) – a major traffic pollutant which is known to be harmful to our health, and the environment.”
“By taking part in this Clean Air Together project, you will measure NO2 in your area and your measurement – together with all of the other data collected – will give us a detailed picture of air pollution from traffic in the city.”
Anyone who is resident in Galway City can get more information, and register to take part, at www.CleanAirTogether.ie.
One woman killed and two men seriously injured in car crash
One woman was killed and two men were seriously injured in a car crash in Co. Mayo on Monday afternoon.
The two vehicle collision occurred on the N5 at Swinford at approximately 4:30pm yesterday afternoon.
A woman in her 70s, a passenger in one car, was killed during the collision. The man driving the car was seriously injured, and taken to Mayo University Hospital.
The man driving the second vehicle also received serious injuries in the crash, and was taken to University Hospital Galway.
Gardaí issued a statement appealing for any witnesses, or any drivers who may have camera footage, to come forward.
“The N5 is currently closed between Swinford and Charlestown as Garda Forensic Collision Investigators conduct a technical examination of the scene. Local diversions are in place.”
“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 on the N5 between Swinford and Charlestown this afternoon between 4pm and 4.45pm, is asked to make this footage available to Gardaí.”
“Anyone with any information is asked to contact Swinford Garda Station on 094 925 2990, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.”
Ten Galway businesses receive grants to boost online presence

Ten Galway businesses have been awarded grant funding to help them boost their online presence.
The government has approved €2.3 million in funding for 98 retailers around the country under the Online Retail Scheme, which is administered by Enterprise Ireland.
In Galway successful retailers include Born Clothing, Cunniffe Electric, Healthplus Ltd (Walsh’s Pharmacy), Hanley & Co menswear, Kenny’s Bookshop & Art Galleries, Maddens of Lerhin hardware, Beattys of Loughrea hardware, Nioclas O Conchubhair Teo hardware, Standun menswears, and Fallers Jewellers.
The Scheme was open to retailers who already have an online presence and a physical store, to help enhance their online capability and attract new customers.
The businesses will receive grants ranging from a minimum of €10,000 to a maximum of €25,000.
Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail Neale Richmond said, “Retailers are at the heart of our communities across the country and the Government is delighted to support them in their transition to online retail.”
“An online presence allows retailers to improve their service for existing customers, attract new customers at home and abroad, as well as future-proof their operations. Moving online is a complement, rather than a replacement to physical stores.”
“Through the Online Retail Scheme, we are enabling established retailers with a store to expand their market presence beyond their community, and even the country, with an increased online presence.
The Minister also celebrated the fact that 79% of the successful applicants were located outside of Dublin.
“It is great to see a geographical spread of successful retail companies from around the country under this round of the Scheme.”
To date, the Online Retail Scheme has supported more than 850 projects around the country.
Teri Smith of Enterprise Ireland said, “Innovative Irish retailers are increasingly looking for ways to adapt their traditional retail model to reflect the growing demand for online shopping from consumers and this latest funding round will help 98 retailers in that ambition.”
“In this funding call we specifically sought applications from businesses which hadn’t previously benefitted from the Scheme, and we’re delighted that a large number of first-time applicants engaged with the Scheme this year.”
Gaeltacht areas to benefit from Údarás support for NBI’s fibre broadband rollout
Údarás na Gaeltachta is partnering with National Broadband Ireland to help bring high-speed fibre broadband to gaeltacht areas, starting in Galway.
Údarás, the State’s key authority for the development of the Gaeltacht area, is providing parcels of land at key locations for the installation of the core fibre optic equipment to facilitate the delivery of high-speed broadband.
This is allowing NBI to build Equipment Accommodation Modules (EAMs) in key locations from which they can build out the network to the surrounding community with minimum disruption.
Údarás is currently facilitating National Broadband Ireland equipment on their premises at Salerno Business Park in Aille West, Co. Galway and plans are in place for further deployments at other sites.
Peter Hendrick, Chief Executive Officer of NBI said, “We want to thank Údarás for their support on our rollout of the National Broadband Plan.”
“The sites they are providing will be a great benefit to us in managing and accelerating our construction work in the west and north west of Ireland.”
“The rollout of the NBI network is showing real momentum and over half the network is now either built or under construction.”
“The take-up of high-speed broadband on our network has been fantastic and we’re keen to continue to accelerate our rollout and bring the benefit of high-speed fibre broadband to more and more homes, businesses and farms.”
Recently NBI completed a €12 million investment which made high-speed fibre available for more than 3,300 homes, farms, and businesses in the rural Ballinasloe area.
Boil Water Notice issued for over 2,000 Galway homes
A Boil Water Notice has been issued for 2,294 customers supplied by the Carna Kilkieran Regional Public Water Supply Scheme.
The notice has been issued by Uisce Eireann in response to elevated levels of turbidity and reduced chlorine residuals.
This is being caused by a deterioration in raw water quality, which has compromised the treatment process.
Areas impacted include all customers on the Carna Kilkieran Regional Public Water Supply Scheme, including people living in Roundstone.
Uisce Eireann’s Eoin Hughes acknowledged the impact of this notice on the community.
“Public health is Uisce Éireann’s number one priority, and we are working closely with Galway County Council to restore drinking water quality for all impacted customers and to lift the Boil Water Notice as quickly as it is safe to do so, and in consultation with the HSE.”
Water must be boiled for drinking, drinks made with water, preparation of food not cooked prior to eating, infant formula, brushing teeth, or making ice.
However, the water supply is still suitable for hygiene purposes, such as showering and hand-washing.
Creggs And Gort showcase their Pride of Place

The people of Creggs and Gort got the chance to showcase the work they have put into their communities to judges from the IPB Pride of Place awards visiting recently.
Pride of Place is an all-island competition run by Co-operation Ireland to recognise and celebrate the vital contributions that communities make to society.
Nominated by Galway County Council, Creggs Rural Development Group is participating in the Climate Action & Biodiversity category of the annual competition for their commitment to promote, educate, raise awareness, and enhance biodiversity within the north Galway village.
The Gort River Walk Group, which has also been nominated by the council, has been included in the Community Wellbeing category in recognition of their continued development of a 3km looped walk that encompasses biodiversity, rest areas, and a new footbridge in the south Galway town.
Representatives of both groups made a formal presentation to the Pride of Place adjudicators, before hosting tours that highlighted the elements of the community and volunteer efforts of which they are most proud.
They will be hoping to secure a place on the winner’s podium at the overall IPB Pride of Place Gala Dinner & Award Ceremony in Armagh City Hotel on Friday 10th November.

“Elected Members are aware of the high level of community and voluntary activity throughout the county and competitions such as Pride of Place give great encouragement at parish and community level,” commented Councillor Dr Evelyn Parsons, Leas Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council.
“I am sure that the judges were highly impressed by the work achieved by the communities of Gort and Creggs to whom I wish every success in the competition, which is the ‘Oscars’ of the community sector.”
Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said that the Pride of Place awards are a chance for the council to recognise the unique value and contributions that people make in their own communities.
These have a profound impact on “community wellbeing, quality of life, and the pride of place instilled by the work that is carried out in their communities,” he added.
“To showcase this at a national level is great acknowledgement and reward for our communities and the often-unseen work that is carried by wonderful communities such as those in Gort and Creggs.”
Galway housing project shortlisted for Community Housing Awards
The Irish Council for Social Housing (ICSH) has announced that the Claregalway & District Day Care Centre has been shortlisted for the prestigious ICSH Allianz Community Housing Awards.
The biennial awards recognise excellence across various different categories of public housing delivery by both local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies.
Speaking today, CEO of the ICSH Donal McManus, said the quality of entries for the 2023 Community Housing Awards is of the highest standard yet.
“I was particularly impressed by the innovation showed across the supported housing category,” he said.
“Choosing which projects to shortlist was a difficult task and speaks to the dedication of all those working across housing associations and local authorities as they deliver much needed homes across the country.”
Projects shortlisted for the ICSH Allianz Community Housing Awards are also competing in the ICSH Public Choice Award. This category gives members of the public an opportunity to support a shortlisted project.
These are the 11th Biennial National Community Housing Awards which were first established in 2003.
The public can vote for their favourite project at www.icsh.ie from early October. The winners will be announced at the ICSH Conference in Wexford on the 18-19 of October.
PBP Galway welcomes cancellation of plans for Tynagh gas plant
People Before Profit Galway has welcomed news that the development of a gas plant in Galway-East is no longer going ahead.
Local Election Candidate for Galway City Central Adrian Curran reacted positively to the news which was detailed in the Business Post over the weekend.
He said that People Before Profit campaigned for a long time against the development of new fossil fuelled infrastructure, such as gas, peat, and coal plants.
“We are pleased to hear the Tynagh gas plant is no longer going ahead. The news announced by EP Energy shows that plans put in place are not fixed, and that people can come together and oppose these developments,” he said.
“We must continue to organise and resist fossil fuel developments anywhere in Ireland.”
Denman Rooke, candidate for Galway City East, said the science behind addressing future climate change shows us that we have to leave a majority of known fossil fuel reserves in the ground.
“We urgently need to switch to renewables to reduce our carbon emissions, meet our legally binding EU carbon targets, reduce local air pollution, and facilitate the just transition of workers in the fossil fuel industry.”
Maisie McMaster, Galway City West candidate outlined People Before Profit’s alternative solutions.
“Ireland needs to continue our roll-out of onshore and offshore wind energy, but at a much quicker rate. In the interim, we should be increasing our expansion of photovoltaic solar power by offering improved grants for farms and households.
“Solar, and other renewables have never been cheaper to purchase and are far cheaper than using fossil fuels. It makes great economic sense to invest in solar not just for meeting our carbon targets but improving Ireland’s energy security.”
Students’ Union urges caution booking student accommodation
University of Galway students looking for accommodation for the upcoming academic year have been urged to exercise caution before committing to a private residence.
Before rushing into signing a lease or contract, it is extremely important to make sure the property fits the needs of all tenants and to look out for rental scams.
There are still some properties available so don’t panic and make sure you keep a close eye on all the accommodation websites especially www.uniofgalwaystudentpad.ie
University of Galway Students’ Union gave 12 handy tips for those searching for accommodation.
- Be aware of the following rental scams: Scammer claims to be out of the country so can’t show you the property but requests a deposit. Scammer is living at the property, and shows a number of people around. They get a deposit from several people and then flee with the cash. The transaction appears to have gone smoothly until the renter finds that the keys don’t work and the landlord has disappeared.
- Take your time when viewing a property. Ensure all the necessities are there e.g. washing machine, furnishings etc. Check that all gas and electrical appliances are in good working order.
- Take photos of the property and make sure to highlight any damages already there e.g. Cigarette burns, carpet stains, etc.
- If there are any repairs to be made in the property, be sure to get it in writing from the landlord or agency that these problems will be rectified before handing over your deposit.
- Avoid paying the deposit in cash and ensure you get a receipt for any moneys exchanged. You are legally entitled to a receipt so make sure to insist on one.
- Request a viewing prior to the move in date to ensure that all outstanding issues have been rectified.
- Ensure the house is well ventilated and that heating sources are identified prior to signing a contract/lease.
- Insist that a building energy rating (BER) certificate is provided prior to signing the contract. This will help you know how cold the house is likely to get and will give you an idea of the cost for heating.
- Ensure you are clear on the duration of the tenancy. If you sign a lease and leave early you may be liable to pay outstanding rent even though you are no longer living there. Check what the situation is in the event of a lockdown.
- Make sure it’s clearly outlined in your lease which utility bills you must pay.
- Take out contents insurance as the landlord’s policy will not cover your personal possessions.
- For online learning check what the broadband speeds and deals are in the neighbourhood to make sure you will be well connected.
Students’ Union President Dean Kenny said that finding accommodation can be extremely stressful and people tend to rush into it.
“It is paramount that you follow these guidelines to avoid scams and ensure that the house you live in will be sustainable for you and your friends. Never rush into getting accommodation, be cautious and insist on receipts and any repairs where necessary.
“This will be where you stay for at least nine months so make sure you have all the necessities before making any commitments. Students still seeking accommodation should check www.uniofgalwaystudentpad.ie.”
Search ends for missing Roscommon man after body discovered
The missing person appeal for a man from Roscommon has been stood down following the discovery of a body on Sunday afternoon at Rosses Point in Sligo.
Paul Carthy (52) was last seen in Sligo on Wednesday evening, and was reported missing on Thursday afternoon.
Gardaí in Sligo thanked the RNLI, the Irish Coast Guard and Sligo Fire Services as well as the media and the public for their assistance in this matter.
Gardaí issue appeal for missing 52-year-old man from Roscommon
Gardaí have appealed for assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 52-year-old Paul Carthy who was reported missing from his home in Co. Roscommon this week.
Paul is described as being around 6 foot in height, of thin build, with brown and grey hair, and blue eyes.
He was reported missing from Scramogue, Co. Roscommon on Thursday at 2pm after being last seen at 9pm on Wednesday at Sligo University Hospital.
When last seen, Paul was wearing a navy t-shirt, dark blue jeans and a black jacket. He was carrying a navy rucksack and a plastic snickers bag.
Gardaí and Paul’s family are concerned for his welfare.
Anyone with information on Paul’s whereabouts is asked to contact Sligo Garda Station on 071 915 7000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
Exploration of the Irish Roots in the Gaming Landscape
Gaming enthusiasts have long been attracted by the charm of Irish-themed games, immersing themselves in virtual worlds honoring the rich cultural heritage of Ireland. Irish PotLuck and the Return of the Leprechaun are two examples of slots with an Irish theme. The fascination with Irish-themed games has been part of online gaming since its advent. That the casino industry is largely based on luck may be one of the reasons software providers and players alike gravitate towards the theme. With Irish characters making it into more and more games, companies have continued to explore the theme for its classic appeal and the great potential it holds
Irish Luck and Its Origins
In the contemporary sense, Irish luck is often associated with four-leafed clovers and Leprechauns. The idea first springs to mind, even though this differs from Irish luck’s origin. People often use the phrase, the luck of the Irish to refer to excellent fortune, but this did not originate with the Irish. The phrase has its roots in America. In the second half of the 19th century, during the silver and gold rush years, the successful miners were of Irish-American descent. With time, mining fortunes were associated with the Irish. During its origins, the phrase was used with a certain disdain. It would be used to refer to success as having been achieved only by sheer luck. With more and more miners of Irish descent, many famous miners identified themselves as Irish. As it traveled across the world, the phrase lost its meaning, getting associated with famous ideas such as clovers, leprechauns, and St. Patrick’s Day.
Irish Influence on Slot Game Themes
It is no surprise that Irish culture, folklore, and luck are heavily associated with casino games. Irish online casinos have at least one slot game that features Irish elements. Irish luck revolves around chance. The kind of luck players hope for when alluding to Irish luck trumps skill. With Irish luck, you would only need a little skill to win when you play for cash. Players should also consider themselves lucky if they can find no deposit casino bonuses in one place without having to look too hard. Because even if it seems easy, sometimes it can take a lot of work to find available bonuses that do not require deposits.
Irish luck is understood worldwide and fits snuggly into casino games. More than bringing players luck, the concept can be used differently. Luck can apply in different parts of the gaming experience, from the games you pick to play to the amount you choose to wager. Taking home the proverbial pot of gold takes more than just skill. Players feel like they need luck at different levels of the game if they are going to take home the grand prize.
The idea is merely a machination of the mind, yet you would need to help convince players about its infectiveness. Winning takes strategies like bankroll management, picking game volatility, and checking slot RTP. Even so, players still gravitate to the idea of luck, hoping to win without using strategy.
The Color Green is Lucky
Game providers and casino vendors will model whole games and sites to the Irish theme. These often have a strong starting position just by having the color green as part of the design. Aside from being part of the national colors for the Irish, green is natural and brings a calming effect. You are sure to find the color as a trademark on various aspects, such as the Irish U18 Women’s Six Nations Squad jerseys. For human beings, green forms a part of the visual spectrum they have learned to see best. Software providers and casino vendors may know the color’s subconscious effects on our perceptions and use this even when developing Irish-themed games.
On a subconscious level, casinos and games with lots of green attract us. This unknowing appreciation of the Irish makes us pick games based on the theme before others. People like to attach some form of luck with games of chance. It is why you are more likely to pick dates that mean something to you as your lottery ticket numbers. We hope our sentimental value for such important dates will draw some luck. The gaming industry has used this effectively, giving players something to latch on at every turn. Enthusiasts of casino games can claim some of the top free offers in 2023 and pick one title over another if they feel like they are more likely to win on one game rather than the other.
That more and more games are still coming out with the theme only indicates that the idea still needs to be played out. We are wired to hope for the best and cling to this hope for what good fortune it may bring. More than the idea of Irish luck, the prospect of winning through sheer luck is why totems like these will remain popular among players.
Mascots and Lucky Breaks
Most casinos have mascots that represent the brand. A mascot is a thing that attracts luck and good fortune to the owner. Having the leprechaun as a mascot is twice the luck. Look through online casinos, and you will find many sites that use the leprechaun as a mascot. Mascots, or the costumed and real-life lucky charms, have been known to rally fans all through history. They are one way to unite fans and give a sense of identity.
One way to look at it is about the casino and its aim to attract more players. Another reason casinos will use mascots like these is to trigger players’ superstitions about how they play. Like the lucky penny, the mascot is a source of optimism and a way to bring good fortune.
The Intrigue and Folklore of the Irish
Game providers use stories from different cultures to develop games. Everybody likes a good story, and mythology has dominated public discourse since we developed language. Stories from our past have been a way to understand the world and our place in it.
As with most things to do with luck, whether these myths are true or not does nothing to diminish their importance. You can increase your winning chances if you register at an online casino, and luck does fall on your side despite a distorted origin story. We enjoy such stories, and they do capture our imagination. The ‘what if’ is the most thrilling part of it. Mix this with some casino games, and you have a recipe for the perfect game.
Add some mythology to your game choice, and you can have a fun ride through history. With this new facet to your gaming experience, the game becomes about more than just winning. No matter where you come from, a good story instantly captures your imagination. While the origins of it may be lost in years of retelling, the story behind a lucky charm is what makes it what it is. The Irish excel when it comes to such legends!
Conclusion
Irish luck is a concept bound to keep growing among online gaming circles. The prospect of wins and the edge you get through lucky charms are reasons the idea of Irish luck will keep flourishing. With new games that portray the idea, even players who don’t know about it are bound to find out sooner or later. Cross your fingers and hope for the best the next time you spin the reels on an Irish-themed slot. You may land the big win you have always been hoping for.
Over 3,300 rural Ballinasloe premises can now receive high-speed fibre broadband
More than 3,300 homes, businesses, and farms in the rural Ballinasloe area can now connect to high-speed fibre broadband.
National Broadband Ireland (NBI) have stated that they have completed a €12 million investment in the fibre network for Ballinasloe.
Peter Hendrick, NBI Chief Executive Officer, said that half of the network nationwide is either completed or under construction.
“The take-up of high-speed broadband on our network has been fantastic and we’re keen to continue to accelerate our rollout and bring the benefit of high-speed fibre broadband to more and more homes, businesses and farms.”
“In Galway we will connect 40,000 premises overall and over a third of those are ready to connect now, including 10,000 homes, businesses and farms in the rural surrounds of Ballinasloe, Loughrea, Athenry and Gort.”
Local Ballinalsoe man Damien Loughnane, who is connected to the NBI network through broadband provider Sky, said that he was pleased to have broadband speeds “many, many times faster” than previously.
“It’s been transformative for our family, allowing both my wife and I to work remotely during the week,” he added.
“We’ve been able to organise our days in the office to mean that at least one of us is always able to be home with the kids, which obviously has a huge impact on things like childcare and our own work-life balance.”
“Beyond our jobs, there’s been other great benefits to the new connection as well. Everyone in the house can all be online at the same time, watching TV, playing games, studying or working, which is a massive bonus.”
Under the National Broadband Plan, 569,000 premises nationwide are included in the Intervention Area, which is directed at areas where commercial operators are not currently providing or intending to provide access to high-speed broadband.
As a wholesale network operator, NBI does not sell fibre broadband directly to end users, rather it enables services from a range of broadband providers or Retail Service Providers (RSPs).
As a wholesale provider, NBI will make the new Fibre-to-the-Home network available to all RSPs operating in the Intervention Area.
Facing the fire and fury in new season of Ros na Rún
Fire puts a family in jeopardy, Berni takes refuge from her fears, and Diana is coaching a patsy for her crimes in Ros na Rún when the hit show returns next month.
The Daly’s house is on fire, with all of their men in danger. Can someone call the emergency services in time to stop the fire from spreading.
Berni takes refuge in Micheál’s and he takes the opportunity to share a health scare with her. He wants his secret kept from Laoise and Réailtín. Can Bernie allay his fears?
Afterwards, Berni braves her fears and returns to the apartment to celebrate baby Lenora’s birthday. Can she finally relax?
Mack has turned himself in and Garda Diana, covering her own tracks, is leading him up the garden path to an underserved prison cell. Is this the end for Mack?
Annette is leading a campaign to prevent Caitriona’s return as manager to Raidio Pobail, but just how much support does she have?
Catch all the drama from the opening of the new season of Ros na Rún when it returns to the Irish airwaves on September 5 & 7, with a double feature omnibus on TG4 on Sunday, September 10.
Four week road closure in Galway City Centre
Bowling Green in Galway City Centre will be closed to traffic for a period of four weeks next month.
The city council has ordered the road closed from Monday, September 18 until Friday, October 13.
During this time Bowling Green will be closed to traffic between its junctions with Market Street and Abbeygate Street Upper.
The road closure is to allow for works to upgrade the local water infrastructure.
A temporary diversion route will be in place via Market Street and Abbeygate Street Upper during this time.


















