One man has been arrested in connection with €80,000 worth of cocaine seized by Gardaí in Galway over the weekend.

In the early hours of Sunday, July 6, the Drugs Unit intercepted a car on the Coast Road in Oranmore.

A man, aged in his 20s, was found in possession of cocaine and arrested.

Follow-up searches of a separate vehicle and a house in the Ballybane area led to the discovery of a further quantity of cocaine.

In total, the estimated street value of the cocaine seized is €80,000.

The man is currently being detained at a station in the Garda North Western Region under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007.

The drugs will be sent for analysis to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI). Gardaí have said that investigations into this are ongoing.

The search for a 55-year-old man missing for over a year has been stood down today after the discovery of human remains.

Ray Hosty (55) was reported missing from Headford, County Galway, on Monday, April 1 2024.

Gardaí have said this morning that following the discovery of human remains, the missing person appeal has now been stood down.

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

A community information meeting will be held on Thursday, July 17, to discuss water quality and water related issues in the Tuam and Athenry Municipal Districts.

The public meeting is being organised by the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) to make more people aware of work to improve water quality in the area.

Under the River Basin Management Plan for Ireland LAWPRO carries out work in areas identified as having poor water quality called Priority Areas for Action (PAA) to support targeted water quality improvements with other stakeholders.

This includes encouraging as much engagement as possible with all stakeholders right across the community, including key agencies, special interest groups, voluntary, public and private sectors.

At theis meeting, LAWPRO experts will take people through the work that has been carried out in the 2nd cycle and what is being planned for the 3rd cycle Water Action Plan.

There will also be opportunities for the public to ask questions and talk to members of the Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP) and the LAWPRO Farming for Water European Innovation Partnership (EIP) project team.

Anthony Coleman, Director of Services with LAWPRO said, “We would like to take this opportunity to welcome members of the public to come along and find out more about what’s happening in their local waterbodies and river catchments.”

“We hope to engage as many people as possible at this meeting in Galway because public participation and support [are] key to achieving water quality improvements.”

“We would also like to thank all those whether in a voluntary or paid capacity, working in their local areas to help make a difference to their natural waters and the biodiversity that live in and around them.”

The public meeting will begin at 7.30pm in Station House, Coolfowerbeg, Ballyglunin, Co. Galway.

Scoil Éinne, An Spidéal is proudly flying a new Green Flag after being officially awarded the internationally recognised eco certification by Green-Schools, for their outstanding work on the energy theme.

To celebrate the achievement, the school held a special event bringing together students, staff and theme partner, EirGrid, for a day of education and celebration.

The festivities included an interactive energy workshop facilitated by EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland’s electricity grid.

The day also included an insightful discussion with the student-led energy committee and a flag raising ceremony to mark the school’s hard work and success.

Principal Pádraigín Ní Lionnáin praised the efforts of everyone involved, especially the work students have put in to reduce energy use.

“This flag represents the incredible dedication our students have shown in learning about and reducing our energy use, from auditing energy consumption to creating awareness campaigns across the school, they led the way.”

“We’re so proud of their achievements and of the positive changes we’ve made together for our school and the planet.”

EirGrid’s Head of Public Relations, Suzanne Collins, said, “It’s inspiring to see young students so passionate about sustainability, and EirGrid is proud to be part of this journey.

“The students’ efforts make a real impact, not just for the school, but in their wider communities and we’re so delighted to be able to support education that empowers the next generation to lead the way in energy awareness and climate action.”

Speaking at the event, Green-Schools Energy Coordinator, Rob Nelson, commended the school’s commitment to achieving the Green Flag for energy.

“It’s no small task achieving this award, it takes creativity, teamwork and long-term effort and Scoil Éinne has shown all of this. Their commitment to sustainability is a great example for other schools and we’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone with them.”

Gardaí are appealing for the public’s help in locating a young woman who has gone missing from her home in Galway City this week.

21-year-old Natalie Cullinane was reported missing from her home in Ballybane, Galway city on Tuesday, July 1.

Natalie is described as being approximately 5 foot 7 inches in height, has a slim build, with blonde hair and blue eyes.

Gardaí and Natalie’s family are concerned for her well-being.

An Garda Síochána are asking with information that could help to locate Natalie to contact them.

Anyone with any information on Natalie’s whereabouts is asked to contact Galway Garda station on 091 538000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

There will be ongoing traffic disruptions in the Glenamaddy area of East Galway this week due to roadworks taking place.

Resurfacing works are being carried out on the R363 at Gortnadeeve between Glenamaddy and Creggs.

The works began on Monday, June 30 and are expected to last until Friday, July 4 this week.

This may cause disruptions and delays for people travelling in the area.

The emergency department at University Hospital Galway is extremely busy today and the hospital is advising that patients who attend ED for routine and non-urgent treatment will experience very long waiting times. Yesterday, there were 234 presentations to the emergency department. As of this morning, there are 51 patients on trolleys awaiting admission to in-patient beds, with additional surge beds in use.

The high number of people attending who need to be admitted for ongoing treatment means that there is pressure on bed availability. This is resulting in significant delays being experienced by patients in the emergency department who are waiting for a bed to become available on a ward.

Due to the pressures on the site and the lack of bed capacity, the hospital is postponing some elective procedures. Urgent, time sensitive cases are being prioritised. Patients are being contacted directly if their procedure is being postponed.

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

The hospital is committed to treating everyone who presents at the emergency department.

People who are seriously injured or ill are assessed and treated as a priority, and those who do not require urgent care may wait longer.

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

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

All visitors to the hospital will be required to practice good hand hygiene and use hand gel regularly, face masks are available for use throughout the hospital.

Fáilte Ireland, in partnership with the Connemara and Aran Islands Tourism Network (CAITN), has launched two new self-guided digital trails that celebrate the unique landscape, heritage, and cultural richness of Connemara.

The Connemara Sheep and Wool Trail and the Connemara Film Trail aim to enhance the visitor experience, encourage visitors to stay longer and deliver meaningful benefits to local communities.

The Connemara Sheep and Wool Trail showcases the region’s deep-rooted heritage in wool production. Spanning 14 locations, the trail includes seven primary sites offering immersive, hands-on experiences and seven secondary stops that enrich the journey.

Visitors can explore the evolution of sheep farming and wool processing in Connemara—from age-old techniques to modern sustainable practices—through engaging activities such as sheepdog demonstrations, wool spinning, weaving, and natural dyeing.

Key locations include the Connemara Sheep & Wool Centre in Leenane, Killary Sheep Farm, Joyce Country Sheepdogs, and the Inis Meáin Knitting Company, where the legacy of the Aran jumper continues to inspire and connect the past with the future of the region’s wool industry.

The Connemara Film Trail celebrates the region’s cinematic legacy, guiding visitors through 17 film locations featured in 11 productions.

From the windswept beaches of The Quiet Man to the dramatic cliffs of The Banshees of Inisherin, the trail showcases Connemara’s natural beauty and cultural depth.

It also highlights Galway’s designation as a UNESCO City of Film and the Gaeltacht’s contribution to Irish-language media, including Ros na Rún.

The trail is ideal for off-season and rainy-day exploration, enriched with film trivia, celebrity quotes, and behind-the-scenes insights.

These trails are designed not only to enhance the visitor experience but also to support local businesses and communities.

By encouraging year-round tourism and promoting lesser-known locations, the trails help distribute economic benefits more evenly across the region. Local artisan food producers, craftspeople, farmers, and tourism businesses are showcased throughout the trails.

Miriam Kennedy, Head of Wild Atlantic Way at Fáilte Ireland, said, “These new digital trails are a testament to the power of storytelling through place.”

“By blending immersive content with self-guided exploration, we’re inviting visitors to connect more deeply with Connemara’s landscape, heritage, and people.”

“Whether tracing the threads of wool through generations or stepping into the scenes of iconic films, these trails offer unforgettable experiences that encourage visitors to explore further and stay longer in the region.”

Terence O’Toole & Dominic O’Morain, Co-Chairs of CAITN said, “The Connemara Film Trail is a celebration of the region’s role in global storytelling. It’s a way for visitors to experience the magic of cinema while discovering the warmth and creativity of our communities.”

“The Sheep and Wool Trail is a tribute to generations of craftsmanship and care. It connects visitors with the land, the animals, and the people who have shaped this tradition.”

“It will also be a vital tool for extending the season and supporting rural livelihoods. We’re proud to be part of a project that brings new energy to local tourism and showcases the talent and hospitality of Connemara.”

The trails are the first of a suite of new themed digital trails coming soon for the Connemara & Islands region, and are now available to view on www.connemara.ie

Green fingers are alive and well at Creagh National School in Ballinasloe, which has just been announced as the 2025 winner of the SuperValu Let’s GROW initiative.

This is a classroom-based food growing programme from GIY, in partnership with SuperValu.

Now in its third year, SuperValu Let’s GROW is rooted in one big idea: helping young people understand the importance of growing food sustainably.

Through the programme, primary school pupils across Ireland are discovering the magic of homegrown food, the positive impact on their health and community, and the power they have to protect the planet.

Creagh NS stood out for its creativity, bringing the challenges to life in a fun and engaging way. Embracing the SuperValu Let’s Grow programme – which champions the idea that there’s always space to grow – their classroom was transformed into a greenhouse of learning.

From growing to cooking and eating, each challenge was thoughtfully designed and tended to by the students themselves, making the experience truly come alive.

Mrs Gallaher, involved in the project explained, “We saw children light up with curiosity — not just about how food grows, but about ecosystems, biodiversity, and the environment.”

“The SuperValu Let’s GROW initiative helped spark big conversations about small changes, and our students embraced every part of it.”

Each school that participated in SuperValu Let’s GROW received a classroom-ready kit packed with seeds, compost, pots, and learning resources linked to the curriculum.

The goal? To inspire real-world, sustainable learning experiences — and nurture a generation that values resilience, resourcefulness, and respect for the Earth.

Mick Kelly, Founder of GIY, praised the school’s efforts, “Creagh NS brought the spirit of sustainability to life in their classrooms and beyond.”

“Their project is a brilliant example of how growing food can empower young people to engage with climate action and sustainable living in a fun, practical way.”

As this year’s national winners, Creagh National School will receive a €1,000 garden development grant to continue expanding their growing efforts and deepening their commitment to sustainable education.

Michelle Griffin, SuperValu Strategy Marketing Manager, said, “At SuperValu, we believe in the power of community and the importance of sustainability.”

“Through SuperValu Let’s GROW, we’re helping schools foster those values from the ground up — and Creagh NS has shown just how impactful that can be.”

Fergal Dunne, SuperValu Ballinasloe added, “Through the SuperValu Let’s GROW programme, we empower students to embrace sustainable living.”

“Creagh NS has shown how growing food can positively impact students, inspiring them to connect with nature and adopt sustainable practices.”

Since its launch, SuperValu Let’s GROW has reached more than 150,000 pupils across Ireland — equipping young minds with the tools, skills, and inspiration to grow food in a way that respects people and planet.

The new football pitch in Corrib Park has been given a name, in honour of ocal soccer volunteer and Corrib Rangers Football Club President, Pat Manogue.

The naming of Pat Manogue Park was celebrated by the former Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr. Peter Keane at a ceremony on Friday, May 23

The proposal was put forward by the current Mayor, Cllr Mike Cubbard, at a Council Meeting in June 2021.

This was in recognition of the tireless work carried out within the local community by Pat Manogue over his many decades with the Corrib Rangers Football Club.

The council agreed at the same time to establish a Civic Naming and Commemorative Committee to review procedures and decisions regarding the naming of publicly owned lands and buildings in the city after persons.

Former Mayor of Galway City, Cllr Peter Keane, unveiled a sign naming the new park, and spoke in recognition of the work of Pat Manogue as a local soccer volunteer.

A teenager reported missing just over two weeks ago has been found safe and well, it has been confirmed today.

14-year-old Tyler Berry was reported missing from the Galway area since Tuesday, June 10.

Gardaí made a public appeal for information that could help to locate Tyler.

It has been confirmed by Gardaí on Wednesday that Tyler has been located safe and well.

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

Croí, the heart and stroke charity, is thanking the many people who made the 31st Croí Corrib Charity Cycle a tremendous success.

Hundreds of cyclists took to the roads of Galway on Sunday, June 8, choosing from two scenic routes, all united by one goal – to help prevent heart disease and stroke.

Their commitment and generosity will have a lasting impact, with all funds raised supporting Croí’s community-based health initiatives, education programmes and patient support services.

Christine Flanagan, Director of Fundraising at Croí, said, “We are extremely grateful to everyone who took part in this year’s cycle. Whether you were cycling, volunteering or sponsoring, you played an essential role in helping us continue our lifesaving work.”

“Community support like this allows Croí to invest in programmes that directly improve heart health and wellbeing across the region and beyond.”

Croí is also extending sincere thanks to the many volunteers who gave their time and energy to help deliver a safe, supported and enjoyable experience for all participants.

From registration to route marshals, mechanical support, food stops and the post-cycle celebration, they made this event possible.

Croí is also very grateful to An Garda Síochána and Galway County Council for their support and assistance.

Special appreciation goes to main sponsor, Corrib Oil, who has backed the Croí Corrib Charity Cycle since its inception in 1995, as well as sponsors Caragh Precision, Al Hayes Motors and Westside Cycles.

Their unwavering support over many years has helped this event grow into one of Croí’s most important annual fundraisers.

Croí said that it hopes to see all those who took part this summer back again in 2026 to continue supporting their lifesaving services.

For more information about Croí’s work or to get involved in future events, visit www.croi.ie

Last year an average 10.3kg of household e-waste was recycled per person in Galway, more than the 9.5kg national average.

That’s according to the latest Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ireland annual report.

The country’s biggest e-waste recycling scheme is now calling for a national leap forward in “e-waste intelligence” as electrical device consumption reaches record levels, with vapes and solar panels driving a 75pc surge in sales over the last five years.

A total of 93 million household electronic items were purchased in 2024, putting pressure on Ireland’s ability to meet EU recycling targets, which are based on sales volumes, regardless of product life cycle or whether they can be reused.

This is almost three times the volume sold in 2006, according to WEEE Ireland, with a reported 31 million vape and e-cigarette devices sold last year alone, and 2.5 million solar PV panels installed in the last five years.

“Each one of those 93 million devices contains valuable materials like aluminium, copper, lithium, cobalt,” said Leo Donovan, CEO of WEEE Ireland.

“We’re using these materials far faster than they can regenerate. Global demand is set to triple by 2050 – a trajectory that cannot be sustained.

“With over 80pc of the EU’s rare earths coming from China, Ireland’s dependence on imports leaves us dangerously exposed. People must reduce that risk by rethinking consumption, embracing circularity, and recovering more materials here at home.”

The number of consumer electronics placed on the Irish market has tripled from 31 million in 2006 to 93 million in 2024.

The most rapid growth has come since 2019, when 53 million units were sold. Vaping devices alone accounted for a third of all units sold last year.

Even excluding vapes and solar panels, consumption is still climbing – a challenge given that EU recycling targets are based on a percentage of sales and don’t take account of long product lifecycles or reusability.

WEEE Ireland says this approach is fundamentally flawed. “We are penalised for selling long-life items like solar PV panels,” said Donovan.

“Over 2.5 million panels have entered the market in the last five years, but with warranties of 15 to 20 years, they won’t reach recycling centres for at least another decade. Yet they still count toward our annual recycling target. That’s not circular thinking.”

Further distorting the picture is the untracked volume of online purchases from many overseas sellers, a gap recently acknowledged by the European Commission.

New WEEE Ireland research also shows the proportion of households hoarding unused devices rose from 22pc in 2023 to 29pc in 2025, highlighting a massive untapped opportunity for reuse and repair.

“We need to move beyond recycling alone. Extending the life of products through repair and reuse must become the norm,” Donovan urged.

Despite these challenges, WEEE Ireland is taking the lead, working with manufacturers and retailers to scale up sustainable solutions.

In 2024 alone, it collected 38,215 tonnes of e-waste, equating to 9.5kg per capita.

This included large household appliances, which account for a significant share of Ireland’s material recovery due to their size and resource content – almost 330,000 large household appliances, over 119,000 fridge freezers and 258,000 TVs and monitors.

More than 1.1 million vape devices were also recovered, despite being notoriously difficult to capture due to disposal habits, with many ending up in waste bins. WEEE Ireland says it continues to work with retailers and regulators to design more effective solutions for this new category of waste.

16.2 million small appliances – such as kettles, vacuums , tools, and toys – along with 1.9 million lighting items and 72 million AA batteries worth of portable batteries were also collected.

With a 96pc recovery rate, WEEE Ireland continues to exceed EU material recovery targets and reinforce Ireland’s standing as a circular economy leaders.

This month, the Government allocated €27 million from the Circular Economy Fund to support further progress, and WEEE Ireland is pushing for an ambitious roadmap forward.

“Galway has an engaged public and a high-performing recycling network,” said Donovan. “With increased investment in recycling centres, including longer opening hours, and strong leadership, we can set the benchmark for e-waste and circular economy solutions in Europe.”