Local Gort activists granted leave to seek judicial review of Biogas Plant plans

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August 8, 2023

Spiddal man selected as new Coimisinéir Teanga

Spiddal native Séamas Ó Concheanainn has been chosen to take the role of the new Coimisinéir Teanga, the Language Commissioner.

The Coimisinéir Teanga is responsible for ensuring public bodies and state agencies fulfil their responsibilities to speakers of official languages, Irish and English.

Mr Ó Concheanainn is currently working as the Director of Oifig an Choimisinéara Teanga, and has been handling the Commissioner’s responsibilities since his predecessor resigned earlier this year.

Rónán Ó Domhnaill resigned as Commissioner in February in order to take up the role of Media Development Commissioner with Coimisiún na Meán.

Séamas Ó Concheanainn has previous experience working in language legislation, higher education, language planning, and community development amongst other things.

He was also previously in various leadership positions at the University of Galway.

Minister Catherine Martin said, “I am pleased that the Government has accepted the recommendation that Mr Ó Concheanainn be appointed as the new Coimisinéir Teanga.”

“He is highly respected by the Irish language and Gaeltacht community because of the work he has done as Director of Oifig an Choimisinéara Teanga since he was appointed there in 2020 as well as his previous work with the University of Galway.”

The Minister added that his previous experience will stand him well in his job as Coimisinéir Teanga.

Séamas Ó Concheanainn was chosen for the role following a competition run by the Public Appointments Service (PAS).

A resolution on the government’s recommendation of him to the role will be put before the Oireachtas when it returns in Autumn.

Galway parents worried about back-to-school costs

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August 7, 2023

Galway Chamber launch mental health and mindfulness campaign

The children’s charity Barnardos has revealed the results of a survey which highlights the stress parents and guardians are under ahead of the new school year.

The survey found that 50% of primary and 66% of secondary school parents are worried about meeting back-to-school costs this summer.

It is estimated that it costs on average €972 to send a new first year to secondary school in Ireland.

Seventy-five percent of schools request voluntary contributions – and over two thirds of parents or guardians felt that these contributions were compulsory.

Adrian Curran, People Before Profit candidate for Galway City Central in next June’s local elections, said the findings “refuted the idea that Ireland has free education”.

“Whilst Ireland is touted as having free education for children, the reality is families are struggling,” he said.

“Every summer’s end we are made aware of parents and families struggling with back to school costs.

“Costs like uniforms, digital materials, and books in secondary schools are driving the costs of education into unaffordable territory.”

PBP’s City East candidate Denman Rooke said that when you see one in five primary school families having to dip into their savings to afford to send their children to school, “it is an indication that the system needs to be changed”.

“Free education should be truly free – everyone should have the same access and potential of education. Working class families should not struggle to ensure the best for their children.”

Maisie McMaster, the party’s Galway City West candidate, explained the remedies People Before Profit say need to be put in place.

“As Barnardos have publicised, there are clear, straightforward ways we can address this issue. Firstly, we need to extend the free school books scheme to secondary schools.

“Secondly, lower cost uniforms must be available. Emblems, crests, and the monopolies of uniform manufacturing must be done away with.

“Thirdly, the Back to School Footwear and Clothing Allowance must be increased, along with Child Benefit, both of which were cut by previous Fine Gael governments, in coalition with Labour.

“Lastly, we need to abolish the Voluntary Contributions, which in reality are not voluntary and contribute to stigma and money concerns for many families.”

First all-inclusive best dressed event a major success!

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August 7, 2023

galway daily news inclusive lgbtqia+ most stylish event — Winners Zein Mahdi, Ruth Walsh and Michelle Kearns at the all-inclusive most stylish evening in The Dean Hotel during Galway Race Week. Photo: Yamile Photography

An all-inclusive most stylish event took place for the first time during Galway Races, with the inaugural event at the Dean Hotel in Bohermore being deemed a major success.

The all-inclusive most stylish evening brought out some of the best fashion of Race Week 2023, with the local LGBTQI+ community turning up in style.

Tom Walsh, Tanya McHale-Roe and Sarah Foy. Photo: Yamile Photography

Stylist Caroline Downey, Tom Walsh of Aztec Hair Co and well-known Galway drag queen Blondie selected worthy winners in three categories on the night.

Blondie, Zein Mahdi, Michelle Kearns, Annie Naggins and Ruth Walsh. photo: Yamile Photography

Ruth Walsh, originally from Kerry and now living in Galway, won the ‘Most Fabulous in an Outfit’ category with her baby blue ensemble featuring a jacket from Monki, a dress from Pull & Bear, a hat from H&M and shoes from Una Healy.

“I wouldn’t normally go to the races, my friend told about this event. I love an excuse to dress up, so I decided to go,” said Ruth. “I knew I wanted to wear the jacket so I based the rest of look around that. I am delighted!”

The ‘Stunning in a Suit’ prize went to Zein Mandi from Saudi Arabia, who moved to Galway in February.

They wore shorts and a blazer suit from Mango, a shirt from Claudie Pierllt, a Gucci tie and Nike runners.

“It was such an amazing night, it was brilliant to be a part of this event in its first year,” said Zein.

The final category was ‘Most Dapper in a Dress’, which was awarded to Michelle Kearns from Tuam who caught the eye of the judges with a colourful glitzy look from Zara and a gorgeous pink headpiece she made herself.

“This all inclusive sounded so much fun and I knew the style would be so different from what we would see at the regular best dressed, I am so glad I came along,” said Michelle.

Louise Donnellan from Claregalway and Aisling Canny of Galway. Photo: Yamile Photography

An electrifying performance by one of Galway’s best drag queens Annie Naggins stole the show on the night at Galway’s newest boutique hotel.

Judges Tom Walsh, Aztec Hair Studio with Stylish Caroline Downey and Alan Hughes at the all inclusive most stylish evening in The Dean Hotel during Galway Race Week.

Two new farming apprenticeships announced

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August 7, 2023

Galway Daily news Galway farmers awarded €2.2 million under beef finisher scheme

Two new farming apprenticeships have been announced by Minister for Higher Education Simon Harris TD.

The Farm Manager apprenticeship creates a pathway to a managerial career in the agricultural sector.

It will equip the apprentice with the latest research and management knowledge to successfully run a commercial farm business.

The Farm Technician apprenticeship trains apprentices to work within Irish farming systems, gaining skills in daily operations, and compliance with industry standards and regulatory measures.

Apprentices will be employed by commercial farm enterprises such as arable, dairy, cattle, pigs, poultry, sheep, suckler farm enterprises.

Speaking on Sunday, Minister Simon Harris said that it is a “really exciting development” for both the education and the farming sector.

“These apprenticeship programmes will welcome their first apprentices in September. Embedding these programmes will be essential to securing the future of farming,” he said.

“This investment will ensure the next generation of farmers can access the education they want and need, while still working on the farm.”

Boil Water Notice issued for part of Tuam

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August 6, 2023

Galway Daily news Boil Water Notice issued for part of Tuam

A Boil Water Notice has been issued for homes in one area of Tuam town this week.

Uisce Eireann has issued a BWN for customers in the Mountpotter area who are served by the Tuam Regional Water Supply Scheme.

The Boil Water Notice was issued after elevated levels of iron were detected in the water supply along this area.

Uisce Eireann has said that the Boil Water Notice does not apply to other areas on the Tuam RWSS.

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.

Atlantic Technological University sees 11 percent increase in early CAO offers

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August 6, 2023

Galway Daily news Minister Simon Harris announces new investment in ATU Galway campus

Atlantic Technological University has seen an 11 percent increase in the number of students receiving early CAO offers for course places this year.

The CAO issued a total of 1,711 offers in Round A, back in July, and Round Zero to prospective students at Atlantic Technological University this year.

People receiving offers in July for Round A, and this week in Round 0 include additional mature applicants, access applicants, as well as QQI FET applicants.

Dr. Billy Bennett, Vice President for Academic Affairs & Registrar at ATU commented, “ATU attracts learners from a diverse range of backgrounds, and we are delighted to see a marked increase in the number of Round Zero offers made by the university.”

“The impact that ATU has had on the region is starting to show in this CAO data today and it is fantastic to see the growth in interest in the university from within the region and beyond.”

Round Zero offers concern applicants who are not competing with those awaiting 2023 Leaving Certificate examination grades, or who are assessed on other criteria.

For other successful applicants, Round One offers will be issued on Wednesday, August 30. Round One offers will be available to view online only from 2pm that day, and successful applicants will also receive offer notifications by email and text message if they have selected this option.

The reply date by which Round One offers must be accepted is September 5 at 3pm. Round Two offers will be available to view online from September 11 at 2pm.

Commencement date sought for widening of vital Roscam junction

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August 6, 2023

Galway Daily news Traffic disruption expected from Galway City centre roadworks

Calls have been made for an update on when work will begin widening a vital Roscam junction by multiple local estates.

Galway City Councillor Alan Cheevers has asked for the council Transport Department to give a start date to the widening of the junction at Spar in Roscam.

This junction on the Doughiska Road is the main entrance point to four estates in the Roscam area of Galway City.

Councillor Cheevers says the agreed works must start as soon as possible, as they must be completed before start of the new school year in September.

“This has been an ongoing issue since active travel work has began on the the South Doughiska Road, where over 700 residents signed a petition to bring the access back to two lanes at junction”.

This was followed by a number of meetings between the active travel team at the city council and the local residents management company, Cllr Cheevers added.

“A proposal of works was presented to the Councillors on July 19. There was broad agreement by a majority of Councillors present to proceed with plan”

“It is now important that it starts immediately so we can avoid more chaos in September with schools open.”

Further warnings issued for Galway City beaches

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August 6, 2023

Further warnings issued for Galway City beaches

Galway City Council has issued further warning notices for potential bacterial contamination at Ballyloughane & Grattan Beaches.

Prior Warning Notices have been issued for both beaches in response to heavy rainfall recently, which can cause elevated bacteria levels.

The notices are expected to be in force until Tuesday, August 8, and the city council has said that an update will be provided next Thursday evening, after further water sampling results are available.

While the warnings are in place, people should avoid splashing or swallowing any water from the two beaches, and to wash hands before preparing food after being in the water.

A swimming ban was in place on both of these beaches earlier this week after elevated E. Coli levels were detected.

The ban was lifted on Friday after further testing returned ‘Excellent’ water quality results for Ballyloughane Beach, and ‘Good’ results for Grattan Beach.

Annual Hiroshima bombing memorial event taking place today

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August 6, 2023

Annual Hiroshima bombing memorial event taking place today — U.S. Navy Public Affairs Resources Website, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The annual Galway Hiroshima Peace Memorial will take place in Galway City Centre this afternoon.

The memorial, organised by the Galway Alliance Against War group, will be held in Eyre Square at 1:30pm on Sunday.

This year’s event, which marks the 78th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, will also address the war in Ukraine.

The Hiroshima peace event will also have live protest music and a minute’s silence for the people killed in the Hiroshima/ Nagasaki atomic bombing.

Speaking at the memorial will be local peace activist Margaretta D’Arcy, who is currently campaigning to retain Irish neutrality.

A spokesperson for GAAW said, “With the blockbuster movie Oppenheimer currently in the cinemas, we hope that it provokes an awareness of the true horrors of nuclear weapons as experienced by the Japanese victims, and why such occurrences must never be allowed to happen again.”

“In a time of forever warfare, it is important that Ireland continues its role as international peacemakers rather than becoming aligned with warmongers.”

Three Galway ladies stand out from the crowd in Friday’s Most Stylish

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August 5, 2023

galway daily news friday's most stylish galway races — Five Finalists (L to R) Gabrielle Dunne, Aoibheann McMonaghe, Jordan Cooney, Eileen Lundon, Therese Conway, Photot: Athlone Towncentre.

Three Galway Ladies were chosen as finalists in this year’s Friday’s Most Stylish sponsored by Athlone Towncentre at the Galway Races, which was won by primary school teacher Jordan Cooney from Navan in Co. Meath.

Therese Conway and Gabrielle Dunne, both from Oranmore, and Eileen Lundon from Gort, stood out from the tens of thousands of racegoers in Ballybrit.

Therese Conway wore a Stine Goya pink, green and black above the knee dress which she had spotted at full price but kept an eye out for on fashion resale site Depop.

When it came up for sale she promptly bought it as an early 40th Birthday gift to herself.

She complemented it by renting a headpiece made by Galway based Milliner Cara Meehan and shoes from Cordners, Sligo.

Gabrielle Dunne wore a green and gold Karen Millen dress with a headpiece made by her very evidently talented mother which matched in the same colours.

Repurposing pieces was at the core of Eileen Lundon’s look as she bought a purple skirt from River Island and made trousers from it.

She also created a top from a second skirt which tied in a bow at the back. Roscommon cased Milliner Laura Hanlon made the red headpiece which finished out her vivid ensemble.

Jordan Cooney from Navan, Co. Meath was announced as winner of ‘Friday’s Most Stylish’.

Jordan Cooney, winner of Friday’s Most Stylish. Photo: Brian Farrell

Wearing an ASOS Design red and pink trouser suit Sarah elevated her look with shoes from Boohoo and a handbag from Kildare Village.

She completed her race going outfit with a red and pink headpiece designed and made by Milliner Majella Lennon from Galway. The easy elegance of her outfit perfectly complemented Friday summer evening racing in Ballybrit.

One of the key reasons Jordan was chosen as winner of Athlone Towncentre’s ‘Friday’s Most Stylish’ was due to the way she created a wholly individual look incorporating pieces from high street stores and an independent designer which are reflective of the variety of retailers housed in Athlone Towncentre.

Jordan took home the biggest Prize Fund on offer for the competition yet, which is worth in excess of €3,500.

She has won a €2,000 Athlone Towncentre Gift Card, a luxury two night break in the four star Sheraton Athlone Hotel in a Deluxe Tower Room with dinner and spa treatments and a €500 gift card for a piece of her choice from Fields The Jeweller, who are one of the many retailers located in Athlone Towncentre.

‘Friday’s Most Stylish’ has proven to be one of the biggest gatherings of race going fashion lovers to date on the Friday of the Festival.

Celebrity judges Arthur Gourounlian, TV Broadcaster and Creative Director and Marietta Doran, Fashion Stylist and Racing Style Presenter were joined by Shirley Delahunt, Manager of Athlone Towncentre.

With the competition in its eleventh year, the spotlight has been on fashion forward style mirrored by the contemporary retailers resident in Athlone Towncentre.

Speaking about her delight at being announced as winner of ‘Friday’s Most Stylish’ sponsored by Athlone Towncentre, Jordan said she had not planned to attend until my friend talked her into it on Friday morning.

“I am absolutely thrilled I wanted to come to enjoy the racing We come every year and absolutely love being at the Galway Races.

Speaking about her plans to enjoy her prize Jordan said she is going to bring her friend Bronagh who encouraged her to attend to enjoy the Shop and Stay break which is part of the prize.

“I am planning on going on holidays soon and think I will definitely hit Zara in Athlone Towncentre when we are there to spend part of my Gift Card.”

Marietta was confident in the winning choice, saying that she chose Jordan as she was the stand out winner.

“Her style her poise and her grooming oozed head to toe glamour Above all else her colour prints and tailoring were fabulous She was such a gracious winner She epitomises everything Athlone Towncentre Fridays Most Stylish is all about.”

Social Media fans can check out behind the scenes action on the Athlone Towncentre Facebook and Instagram accounts which were taken over by Rebecca Rose Quigley, a previous winner of ‘Friday’s Most Stylish’ who is now a talented stylist and influencer and forms part of the Personal Shopping Team in Athlone Towncentre.

Viewers have exclusive access to style around the racecourse as was seen throughout the day.

Grant scheme needed for maintenance of community playgrounds

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August 5, 2023

A dedicated grant scheme is needed for maintenance and upgrades of playgrounds for the benefit of children and young people in our communities, a Galway East TD has said.

Deputy Ciaran Cannon said the vast majority of playgrounds in rural Ireland have been developed by local community groups, with support from the State through various funding schemes.

“Many of these community playgrounds are now well over a decade old, with many issues beginning to arise in terms of their safety and a need for general maintenance,” said the Fine Gael TD.

“Equipment needs to be upgraded or replaced completely and insurance is sometimes difficult to secure in the absence of such upgrades.”

Deputy Cannon said that all in all, major problems are mounting up and causing a major headache for those committed volunteers who work hard in our communities.

“That’s why I’m suggesting we need a dedicated grant scheme for the maintenance and upgrading of community playgrounds.

“This is an issue I have raised with my colleague, Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, TD, who confirmed to me that she would be open to examining the issue.”

He said the most logical option is to route this funding through the Department of Rural and Community Development.

“Minister Humphreys and her officials have valuable experience in the shaping of such funding schemes and ensuring value for taxpayers’ money.

“They can build on the success of a recent scheme for the upgrade of community centres. The response for example to last year’s Community Centres Investment fund was extremely well received.

“In excess of €45.8 million was allocated to refurbish more than 860 community centres, making them safer, more accessible and more enjoyable places for families and communities.

“I have made a recommendation to my Fine Gael cabinet colleagues that this Community Playground Upgrade Scheme would be provided for in the upcoming budget and would go live in early 2024.”

Old Galway exhibition to take place at The Kenny Gallery

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August 5, 2023

galway daily news old galway photography gallery

An exhibition of over 40 photographs of Galway city, Tom Kenny’s Old Galway, will be on display at The Kenny Galleryu in Galway from August 12to 29.

Curated by local historian Tom Kenny, the images will depict a social history of Galway city in the late 19^th and 20^th centuries.

Photographs of various city streets including Quay Street and Cross Street, market scenes, old shops and residences, workers, sporting activities and transport are all represented.

Tom Kenny has been a local historian in Galway for most of his life and this year sees the celebration of his fiftieth year writing weekly Old Galway columns on the city’s history for the Galway Advertiser newspaper.

He also co-hosts a weekly Old Galway Diary podcast together with Ronnie O’Gorman.

The exhibition will be launched at 3pm on Saturday, 12 August by Mayor of Galway City, Cllr Eddie Hoare and all are welcome. The exhibition is being funded by Galway City Council.

Tom Kenny’s Old Galway will run from Saturday August 12-29 at The Kenny Gallery, Liosbán Retail Park, Tuam Road, Galway (open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm).

The images are not for sale. A selection of the images will be also available to view on www.thekennygallery.ie.

Massive increase in adoption of domestic solar panels in Galway

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August 4, 2023

There has been a significant increase in the number of people interested in solar panels for their homes in Galway this year, with the number of grant assisted installations tripling.

There was a 202% increase in the number of domestic solar panel installations in Galway in Q1 of 2023 compared with the same period last year.

Between January and March there were 257 domestic solar PV installations carried out with the assistance of SEAI grants in Galway, compared with 85 in the same period last year.

Data provided by the SEAI to EnergyEfficiency.ie show that Cavan saw the largest increase in grant supported domestic solar installations (588%), followed by Waterford (427%), and Carlow (400%).

At a provincial level Leinster had the highest number of home solar installations, with 2,102 homes getting solar panels fitted in Q1 2023, an increase of 250% on last year.

The largest growth year-on-year was in Ulster, where 204 homes had solar panels installed, a staggering jump of 397% compared with 41 homes in the same period last year.

Munster saw a 273% increase in grant-aided home solar this year, with 1,155 homes getting panels fitted, and Connacht recorded a 205% jump to 521 solar PV installations in Q1 2023.

Dublin was the county with the most grant supported domestic solar installations in Q1 2023, with 865 homes having solar PV panels installed. Cork followed Dublin with 512 solar installations from January to March, and Galway saw the third most in the country with 257.

The lowest number of homeowners installing solar panels with the assistance of SEAI grants so far this year has been in Longford (16), Leitrim (27), and Monaghan (45). But even there the numbers for the first three months of 2023 are up from just 10 in each county in the same period of 2022.

James Dorrian, Managing Director of EnergyEfficiency.ie, a new website which connects homeowners with local SEAI registered solar installers, said: “The rising interest that people have in home solar power is clearly seen in the fact that home solar installations have more than doubled in 2023”.

“The stark difference between the figures for the start of this year, and the same three months in 2022, show that solar power is becoming an increasingly affordable option for homeowners looking to save money on their electricity bills, while also reducing their carbon footprint.”

“As electricity prices remain stubbornly high, and with the reduced O% VAT rate for solar on residential properties, we’re expecting to see continued strong interest in solar PV from homeowners who want to become energy independent.”

Between high electricity prices, falling technology costs, and grant assistance, there has never been a better time for homeowners to go green with solar power.

The government cut the VAT rate on the supply and installation of domestic solar panels from 13.5% down to nothing at the start of May this year to help families with high electricity prices and encourage the growth of micro-generation within Ireland.

The SEAI offers grants of up to €2,400 for homeowners who are having solar PV panels installed on their property. This grant scheme is eligible for all homes built and occupied prior to 2021.

Home solar got a boost late last year, when changes were made to planning regulations regarding rooftop solar. Homeowners can now install unlimited amounts of solar panels on the roofs of houses without needing planning permission.

The changes in planning regulations were introduced in October of 2022, just in time for homeowners putting in their grant applications towards the end of the year.

Weather warning for heavy rain in Galway tonight

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August 4, 2023

Galway Daily weather Weather warning for heavy rain in Galway tonight

A weather for heavy rain in Galway and across much of Ireland will be in effect on Friday night and into tomorrow morning.

Met Eireann has issued a Status Yellow rain warning for all of Connacht, along with counties Clare and Tipperary, which will be in effect from 8pm tonight until 8am on Saturday morning.

During this time Met Eireann warns of spells of heavy rain which will cause spot flooding, poor visibility, and difficult travelling conditions.

A separate Yellow weather warning for heavy rain in Leinster, Monaghan, and Cavan has also been issued by Met Eireann.

This weather warning will be in place from 11pm tonight until 10am on Saturday morning.

New ‘one stop shop’ for Respiratory conditions opens in Moycullen

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August 4, 2023

New ‘one stop shop’ for Respiratory conditions opens in Moycullen

A new “one stop shop” for patients with asthma and COPD has opened its doors in the Moycullen Primary Care Centre.

This clinic ensures that patients can access a consultant, a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Physiotherapist and Respiratory Physiologist and receive a diagnosis all on the same visit.

The clinic has seen 60 patients since opening in late April, reducing the need for people to attend hospital clinics. Optimising their lung condition in the community is also reducing hospitalisations related to these conditions.

“The goal of this clinic is to provide comprehensive care for patients who have symptoms suggestive of asthma or COPD,” said Denise Dunne, Operational Lead for the Integrated Care Programme for the Prevention and Management of Chronic Disease (ICPCD) in Galway City.

“The new clinic is equipped with the latest diagnostic technologies and is staffed by a specialist team of highly experienced respiratory specialists, dedicated to offering personalised, individualised effective treatment plans for each individual patient.”

The clinic is revolutionising the way respiratory care is delivered in the local community by leveraging diagnostic tools, including lung function testing to accurately identify and diagnose various respiratory conditions including COPD and Asthma.

These technologies enable the clinic’s team of respiratory experts to detect lung conditions early, design targeted treatment plans, monitor patient progress and enrol patient on pulmonary rehabilitation; resulting in improved patient outcomes and a higher quality of life.

“We are excited to bring this “one stop shop” respiratory clinic to our community patients;” said Dr Sinead Walsh, Respiratory Consultant aligned to the Integrated Care Hub Galway City.

The clinic’s opening is a significant milestone in the roll out of the Enhanced Community Care (ECC) programme in the West, which is jointly governed by the Saolta University Health Care Group and Community Healthcare West (CHW).

The programme is enhancing and increasing community health services and reducing pressure on hospital services. This means more services closer to where people live. Especially for older people and people with chronic disease.

Galway International Arts Festival smashed attendance records with over 400,000 visitors

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August 4, 2023

Galway Daily arts Galway International Arts Festival smashed attendance records with over 400,000 visitors — Photo:Andrew Downes, xposure.

Galway International Arts Festival smashed all attendance records this year with more than 400,000 people coming to the two week sensation.

The curtains came down on the 2023 GIAF last Sunday, after a fortnight of spectacle from Dragons in the street, music on the stage, and acrobats dancing in the air.

From the new 1,150 capacity Festival Theatre to the Heineken® Big Top and the Festival Galleries to the Festival Garden, GIAF transformed, designed and created many of its cultural spaces for its most ambitious Festival to date.

GIAF Chief Executive John Crumlish said, “On behalf of us all, I would like to thank our audiences who came in such numbers to the festival.”

“This was our biggest festival to date, so we are very thankful to everyone who came, those that support us, the volunteers and especially the artists whose work made it all possible. We now look to next year.”

More than 500 volunteers from dozens of countries around the globe were essential for making this arts festival run smoothly, joining through the Festival’s Volunteer and participation programmes Selected and Visual Arts Invigilation Programmes.

GIAF Artistic Director Paul Fahy said, “We are thrilled with the response from our audiences for what has been our most ambitious festival yet.”

“From The Pulse to Bedbound and David Mach to DruidO’Casey, the reaction has been extraordinary. We are hugely grateful to all our artists and production teams for delivering such amazing work this year.”

Highlights of this year’s Galway International Arts Festival included:

The Pulse from Gravity & Other Myths, featuring a company of over 60 performers, including a choir of 30 female voices
Colm Meaney performing alongside his daughter Brenda Meaney in Bedbound from Landmark Productions and GIAF, which moves to the Olympia from August 8 – 12
An enormous 30ft Dragon wandering the streets of Galway City in The Forgotten World, courtesy of Planète Vapeur.

An those are just some of the hits over two weeks that also saw a stellar lineup of music at the Heineken Big Top; the epic DruidO’Casey in a country wracked by war and rebellion from Galway’s own Druid Theatre; and the thought provoking First Thought Talks.

Connacht fixtures announced for Women’s U18 Interprovincial Championship

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August 4, 2023

Galway daily sport Connacht fixtures announced for Women's U18 Interprovincial Championship

Connacht will kick off the PwC Women’s U18 Interprovincial Championship with an away game against Munster later this month.

The IRFU has announced the fixtures for the 2023/24 Championship this morning, with the tournament now taking place alongside the Senior Championship in to further underline its importance in the development pathway.

The championship will run over three weekends of round-robin action before the knockout stages take place in February.

Munster will host Connacht for the first match of the season at Musgrave Park on Saturday, August 19.

Connacht’s next game will be against be against Ulster at Corinthians Park on Saturday, August 26, and the Round 3 fixture against Leinster will be held on September 2, also at Corinthians.

The 2023/23 Championship was launched today at the IRFU High Performance Centre with Siofra Hession (Connacht), Ruby Starrett (Ulster), Rebecca Brennan (Leinster) and Niamh Crotty (Munster) in attendance, alongside IRFU President Greg Barrett and Doone O’Doherty, PwC Partner.

Amanda Greensmith, IRFU Women’s Development Manager, said, “We are excited to be launching the fixtures for the PwC Women’s U18 Interprovincial Championship, which continues to evolve into an important development platform in our Women’s pathway structure.”

“It is important we positioned the competition alongside the Women’s Championship in the season calendar, and the addition of double-header match days at Energia Park and Musgrave Park to the schedule is the result of lots of hard work from all stakeholders involved.”

“We look forward to three rounds of exciting and competitive round-robin action, which provides our best young players from around the country with access to top-class coaching and the high-level exposure required to fast-track their development as rugby players.”

Enda McDonagh, Managing Partner, PwC Ireland, added, “At PwC we are proud to support the U18 Women’s Interprovincial Championship, a key component of the development pathway for the next generation in women’s rugby.”

“Supporting excellence and recognising talent is paramount to the future success of business and all of our communities.”

PwC Women’s U18 Interprovincial Championship Fixtures:

Round 1: Saturday, August 19

Munster v Connacht, Musgrave Park, 12pm
Leinster v Ulster, Energia Park, 3pm

Round 2: Saturday, August 26

Connacht v Ulster, Corinthians RFC, 12pm
Leinster v Munster, Energia Park, 2pm

Round 3: Saturday, September 2

Ulster v Munster, Ballymena RFC, 12pm
Connacht v Leinster, Corinthians RFC, 2pm

Semi-finals, Thursday, February 15

TBC

Finals, Sunday, February 18

TBC

Save Money and Stay Warm: Benefits of Upgrading Your Boiler

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Angela Mc Bride

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August 4, 2023

When it comes to home comfort and energy efficiency, the importance of a well-functioning boiler cannot be underestimated. The boiler serves as the heart of your heating system, providing warmth and hot water throughout your home.

However, over time, boilers can become less efficient, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. This is when upgrading your boiler becomes a wise investment. Not only can they cut costs, but a modern boiler is significantly less harmful to the environment, helping to improve your carbon footprint.

In this article, we will explore the numerous benefits of upgrading your boiler. Not only will a new, modern boiler system keep you warm and cozy during the colder months, but it can also help you save money in the long run.

Signs You Need To Replace Your Boiler

There are several signs that indicate it may be time to for a boiler replacement. Paying attention to these signs can help you avoid sudden breakdowns, and ensure the safety of your home.

Age: Most boilers have an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years. If your boiler is approaching or surpassing this age range, it is likely to experience more frequent issues and decreased efficiency.
Rising Energy Bills: If you’ve noticed a significant increase in your energy bills without any other explanation, it could be a sign that your boiler is becoming less efficient. As they lose efficiency, they consume more energy and ultimately cost more.
Frequent Repairs: Constant breakdowns and the costs associated with repairs can add up over time. If you’re experiencing recurring issues with your boiler or find yourself spending more on repairs, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new boiler.
Uneven Heating or Inconsistent Hot Water: If you notice that certain areas of your home are not being adequately heated or that your hot water supply is inconsistent, it could be a sign of boiler trouble.
Strange Noises and Odors: Unusual noises, such as banging, clanking, or whistling sounds, coming from your boiler could indicate mechanical issues or mineral buildup. Likewise, unpleasant odors, such as a sulfur-like smell, can be a sign of a gas leak. If you notice persistent strange noises or odors coming from your boiler, you must get it checked by a professional as soon as possible.
Yellow or Flickering Pilot Light: If you have a gas boiler, the pilot light should be a consistent blue flame. A yellow or flickering pilot light could indicate a problem with the combustion process, such as improper gas flow or incomplete burning. It may be a sign of a carbon monoxide leak, which is a serious safety concern.

If you notice any of these signs, or have concerns about the performance and safety of your boiler, please consult a qualified heating professional. They can assess the condition of your boiler and make sure that your home is safe.

The Benefits of Boiler Replacement

No matter what the reason may be, if you decide it’s time to upgrade your home heating there are a great number of benefits that you can enjoy by doing so. Here are some of the ways a new boiler replacement can improve your home:

1. Improved Energy Efficiency:

Upgrading your boiler leads to improved energy efficiency, resulting in reduced energy consumption and lower heating costs. Older boilers lose efficiency over time, requiring more energy to produce the same amount of heat.

Modern boilers utilize advanced technology, such as condensing features, to extract more heat from the fuel they burn, minimizing energy wastage and maximizing efficiency (so you get more for your money!).

2. Cost Savings:

A new boiler not only reduces energy costs but also minimizes repairs. Older boilers tend to be more prone to breakdowns and the cost of repairs can add up over time. By investing in a new boiler, you can enjoy a more reliable heating system.

3. Environmental Impact:

Older boilers emit higher levels of carbon dioxide, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Newer boilers are designed to meet strict energy efficiency standards and emit fewer pollutants. By replacing your outdated boiler with a modern, eco-friendly model, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

4. Enhanced Safety:

Upgrading to a new boiler model ensures that you have the latest safety technologies in place, including automatic shutoff valves, pressure relief valves, and advanced monitoring systems. These features enhance the safety of your heating system, protecting you and your household from potential hazards.

5. Quieter Operation:

Older boilers may produce clanging pipes, rumbling sounds, or other disruptive noises that can disturb your peace and quiet. Modern boilers are designed with noise reduction features, providing a quieter operation and a more pleasant living environment.

6. Increased Home Value:

A new, energy-efficient boiler can be an attractive selling point when it comes to the value of your home. Prospective buyers consider the quality and efficiency of the heating system when assessing a property. Upgrading your boiler increases its appeal and can potentially boost the market value of your home.

7. Longevity and Durability:

Modern boilers are built to be more durable and long-lasting compared to older models. Investing in a new system ensures that you have a reliable heating solution that will serve you well for many years to come. Newer boilers often come with extended warranties, providing additional protection and coverage. This means fewer unexpected repair costs and greater peace of mind regarding the longevity of your heating system.

8. Technological Advancements:

Many modern boilers are compatible with smart home systems, enabling integration with other smart devices. This integration allows you to control your heating system remotely using your smartphone or through voice commands. You can adjust temperature settings, schedule heating cycles, and monitor energy usage from anywhere, optimizing comfort and efficiency.

In conclusion, the benefits of upgrading your boiler are numerous and far-reaching. By investing in a new, modern boiler system, you can experience improved energy efficiency, resulting in significant cost savings on your heating expenses. Not only will you enjoy a cozy and comfortable home, but you will also contribute to a greener future by reducing your carbon footprint.

Don’t let an outdated, inefficient boiler hold you back. Embrace the benefits of a boiler replacement and experience the warmth, savings, and peace of mind that come with a modern, energy-efficient heating system. Upgrade your boiler and enjoy a more comfortable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly home for years to come.

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August 4, 2023