The EuroDreams excitement continues as a player in Co. Galway secures €2,000 monthly for five years, after matching six numbers in Thursday night’s draw.
This win follows closely behind last week’s success, when a Westmeath player claimed the same prize in the Monday, 1st December draw.
The Galway player purchased their winning ticket on the day of the draw at Mannion News, Orantown Centre in Oranmore, Co. Galway.
The numbers in Thursday night’s (11th December) EuroDreams draw were: 4, 6, 21, 23, 32, 37, and the Dream number was 1.
National Lottery spokesperson, Emma Monaghan, shared, “This is fantastic news for one of our EuroDreams players in the west – they’ve guaranteed €2,000 every month for the next five years.”
“We’re urging all players to check their tickets carefully. If you’re the winner, sign the back of your ticket, keep it safe, and contact our Prize Claims team.”
The winner is advised to sign the back of their ticket and to keep it safe. The winner should make contact with our prize claims team on 1800 666 222 or email claims@lottery.ie and arrangements will be made for them to collect their prize in Lottery HQ.
EuroDreams is the first annuity game of its kind ever to be seen in Ireland, offering tax-free monthly payments instead of a lump sum. The Tier 2 prize won in Co. Galway is worth €2,000 per month for five years (€120,000 total).
The Tier 1 top prize, still up for grabs, is currently boosted to an incredible €30,000 per month for 30 years.
That’s €10.8 million in total, paid in monthly instalments, usually €20,000 per month for 30 years. This special event, which began on October 2, will continue until someone wins the top prize.
EuroDreams draws take place every Monday and Thursday across eight countries: Ireland, Austria, Belgium, France, Luxembourg, Portugal, Spain, and Switzerland.
More than 80 children with additional needs have enjoyed a unique opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas with a special visit to a Sensory Friendly Santa’s Grotto.
The two-day event on December 5th and 6th was facilitated by staff and students from the School of Psychology at University of Galway, who took on the important roles of elves and Santa’s helpers.
The annual Sensory Friendly Santa’s Grotto has been a highlight of the year at University of Galway since 2017 and has grown to a weekend event, giving 48 families with additional needs the opportunity to visit Santa in a winter wonderland.
Children received individualised, sensory-friendly gifts from Santa and had their photos taken, creating special Christmas memories.
Dr Rachel Fitzpatrick, Dr Shauna Diffley, Dr Aoife McTiernan and Dr Helena Lydon from the School of Psychology coordinated the event, with a team of volunteer staff and students from the MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis and final year students from the BSc Psychology programme at University of Galway.
Dr McTiernan said, “Visiting Santa is a cherished Christmas tradition, but busy grottos filled with noise, bright lights, and queues can be challenging for children with additional needs.”
“The Sensory Friendly Santa’s Grotto at the University of Galway offers a calm, magical experience designed especially for these children and their families, often giving them their first opportunity to meet Santa.”
Dr Fitzpatrick added, “The event is made fully accessible and inclusive through small adjustments to the grotto and environment. Santa and the team connect with families in advance to help each child enjoy their visit at their own pace.”
“It’s a true team effort, with Santa, the elves, and volunteers (staff and students from the School of Psychology) working hard behind the scenes to create real Christmas magic.”
“We are deeply grateful to our generous sponsors across Galway and Ireland, and to the School of Psychology.”
The organisers also hope to spread Christmas cheer by creating a freely available “How to Guide” on running similar inclusive and accessible Santa’s Grotto events.
The aim is that it will encourage other businesses and organisations across Ireland to provide this unique opportunity for more families of children with additional needs to experience the magic of meeting Santa.
The event coordinators continued their annual tradition to collect for COPE’s Christmas appeal with visitors and volunteers donating items for Christmas hampers for those in need.
Businesses from Galway and around Ireland sponsored the 2025 event and their generosity plays a critical role in making the magic of the event happen.
Sponsors include Diligent, Liberty IT, Galway Camera Shop, Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop, 56 Central, Cregal Art, The Galmont, Connacht Hospitality Group, Irish Socksciety, Ground and Co, Smyths Toys Superstores, Supermac’s, The Galway Bay Hotel, Lidl and Home Store.
Ruairí Conroy from Diligent Galway said, “At Diligent, we’re committed to supporting initiatives that create meaningful impact in our community.”
“The Sensory Friendly Santa experience is a truly special event, it ensures every child has the chance to enjoy the magic of Christmas in a way that feels comfortable and accessible.”
“We’re proud to support the incredible work that goes into making this experience possible for families across Galway.”
Galway City Council took home the prestigious ‘Festival of the Year’ Award at the 2025 Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards.
The ‘Galway Climate Inspirations Festival – Communities in Action’ festival beat off stiff competition from the Dublin City Sensoria Festival, Howth Maritime and Seafood Festival, Brigid – Spirit of Kildare Festival, Willy Clancy Traditional Music Summer School and Kilkenny’s Toil and Trouble to bring the award home to Galway City.
Launched in 2024, the ‘Galway Climate Inspirations Festival – Communities in Action’ is an annual event that reimagines climate action as a positive, creative, and community-led movement.
The festival aims to move away from fear-based messaging and instead celebrate community-led climate action through art, culture, and collaboration. It aims to harness Galway’s theatrical, musical, artistic, sporting, and culinary traditions, as well as its Gaeilge heritage, to inspire climate action.
The 2024 festival line up included Mary Robinson, Philip Boucher Hayes, musician John Spillane, comedian Colm O’Regan, journalist Ella McSweeney, Fregoli Street theatre, Stomptown Brassband and a host of other performers, speakers and supporters who brought the streets of Galway City alive for this community climate action festival.
2025 added a new climate carnival to Fr. Burke Park with talks, a volunteer fair, live music, local food and coffee stalls. A Street party followed in Galways Westend with Boola Boom percussion and Bang Bike DJs.
A Decarbonisation zone walk and talk and Féasta – a long table pop up harvest feast for 150 people with food from local community gardens, were also some of the many highlights this year.
Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard said, “I’m delighted to see this innovative festival recognised on the national stage.”
“The Galway Climate Inspirations Festival sets a precedent for integrating cultural engagement with environmental initiative – as the first climate festival organised by a local authority. It advances Galway’s climate action plan goals and positions the City as a leader in innovative climate action”.
Four Galway City Council projects were shortlisted in the 22nd Annual Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards, which recognise and celebrate the outstanding work carried out by Local Authorities all over Ireland.
The four shortlisted entries were: Galway Climate Inspirations Festival, CREW Galway, Youth Lates, and Ireland’s first city-centre School Street at Scoil Iognáid.
This year, a record number of 259 submissions were received from 26 Local Authorities, underscoring the importance of these awards in showcasing the high standard of service provided by Local Authorities to their communities.
Uisce Eireann is carrying out water mains replacement works in Tuam town which are expected to continue into next year.
The project involves the replacement of more than 350m of aging mains with new, modern pipes along the R332 Dublin Road, from Rinkippeen to the Garraun Park Junction.
The works, which are being carried out under Uisce Éireann’s National Leakage Reduction Programme, have begun this week and are expected to be completed by Spring 2026.
Enda Mac Namara, Programme Manager with Uisce Éireann, said that customers in Tuam can look forward to a more secure and reliable supply of drinking water as a result of these mains replacement works.
“Aged water mains contribute significantly to water leakage and quality issues. The replacement of these water mains will improve the resilience of the network, eliminate existing leaks and reduce the amount of clean water lost into the ground,” said Enda.
“We would like to thank the local community for their support and patience in advance as we carry out these essential works.”
Areas of work will be limited to short sections to minimise the impact on customers. Traffic management in the form of traffic lights will be in place during the works.
However, local and emergency traffic will be maintained at all times. To minimise disruption during the Christmas period, works will cease from Friday, 19 December until early January 2026.
The works may also involve some short-term interruptions to the water supply for nearby customers.
The project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48 hours’ notice prior to any planned interruption.
The Emergency Department at University Hospital Galway is extremely busy today with high numbers of people attending the department who need to be admitted to hospital for ongoing treatment.
As of this morning there are currently 31 patients on trollies in the Emergency Department and a total of 20 patients on trollies at surge level.
There are also 38 cases of patients with flu in the hospital, with several wards impacted. Signs notifying outbreak wards will be displayed at the ward entrance.
Due to a sharp increase in flu cases in the community and University Hospital Galway, we are appealing to anyone with flu-like symptoms not to visit the hospital.
As a necessary infection control measure, University Hospital Galway has introduced visiting restrictions.
“We regret the impact these restrictions will have on patients and their families, especially at this time of year, but we need to do everything we can to control the spread of infection,” a statement from the hospital said.
“The hospitals will be facilitating one visitor per inpatient each day. Where a ward is managing a flu outbreak, visiting will be limited to compassionate grounds only.”
“These restrictions are temporary and subject to change based on daily activity levels, so please check HSE.ie for information about visiting in your local hospital.”
The hospital is advising that patients who attend ED for routine and non-urgent treatment will experience very long waiting times.
All available beds in the hospital are in use and there is a high number of patients awaiting beds. Patients are facing long waiting times to be admitted from the Emergency Department to a bed on a ward.
Every effort is being made to discharge patients who are ready to go home so that beds will become available for patients who need to be admitted at the earliest opportunity.
Due to these ongoing pressures and the lack of bed capacity, the hospital is postponing some elective procedures.
Urgent and time-sensitive procedures are being prioritised. Patients are being contacted directly if their procedure is being postponed.
As always, people who require emergency care are encouraged to attend EDs where they will be prioritised.
Rang a 6 students, Príomhoide Áine Ní Thuathail and Múinteoir Aonghus Ó hEochaidh who collected the 'Leading Light Award' on behalf of all the children in Scoil na bhForbacha.
Schhol children at Scoil na bhForbacha have been honoured with a ‘Leading Light Award’ in the Best School Initiative category by the Road Safety Authority (RSA).
The award was presented at a special ceremony in the Cusack Suite, Croke Park Stadium, Dublin, today.
This prestigious national award recognises the extraordinary commitment and creativity all the children in Scoil na bhForbacha have shown over the past few years in highlighting road safety concerns outside their school.
Their work included protest walks, student-produced videos, letters to Galway County Council, and participation in local and national media interviews, all aimed at securing safe, reliable crossing infrastructure on the busy R336.
Speaking after the ceremony, the school praised the students’ leadership and determination.
“Tá muid thar a bheith bródúil as gasúir na scoile s’againne atá ag troid go láidir ar mhaithe le slí shábháilte chun na scoile. Is é a gceart é.” said Príomhoide Áine Ní Thuathail.
“This award recognises their voice. A voice calling for nothing more than the basic right to cross the road safely. We are immensely proud of them.”
Award Underscores Community’s Call for Urgent Safety Measures
The achievement comes after a record 321 submissions were made by Na Forbacha parents and residents to Galway County Council’s consultation on the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) proposal.
This unprecedented response reflects the deep concern locally that, without signalised pedestrian lights (puffin crossing) and reduced speed limits, children will remain at risk on one of the busiest and fastest sections of the R336.
While the community welcomes elements of the proposed plan, including raised zebra crossings, new signage, and speed reduction measures, residents state that these fall short of what is needed to protect children walking and cycling to school.
“This award showcases the leadership of our young people,” said Coiste Sábháilteachta na bhForbacha. “But it also highlights what is still missing: proper, signalised pedestrian lights.”
“Our children should not have to campaign for basic safety. Today’s recognition makes it even more urgent that Galway County Council delivers the protections they deserve.”
The community in Na Forbacha state that while the, while the SRTS programme has been hailed as a success, that does not reflect the reality in the village, where families must still navigate a 50 km/h national route without a push-button crossing.
For many parents, the lack of a secure, controlled crossing continues to be a barrier to allowing their children to walk or cycle to school.
Príomhoide Ní Thuathail added, “A zebra crossing on a high-speed route is not enough. Without traffic lights, many families will continue to feel they have no safe option but to drive, undermining the very purpose of Safe Routes to School.”
The RSA ceremony celebrated the students’ achievements, including a visit to the Croke Park Museum, the Skyline Tour, and a full stadium tour, creating a memorable day that recognised a year of hard work.
But for the children of Scoil na bhForbacha, the ultimate goal remains unchanged: to secure safe active travel routes for all.
Gardaí will be conducting high visibility patrols in Galway City across the Christmas and New Year period to deter crime during the busy shopping period.
The operation is aimed at ensuring the city continues to be a safe place to live, visit, socialise and conduct business.
Additional uniformed personnel will be deployed on foot patrol across the city centre between peak business hours for the duration of the operation.
In addition, there will be increased foot patrols during the peak weekend socialising hours.
Superintendent Paudie O’Shea, Galway City Community Engagement, said, “The increased high visibility policing resources in Galway City will adopt a robust approach to policing any offences detected, including public order offences, drug-related activity or anti-social behaviour and will provide continuous reassurance to members of the public.”
“In order to combat retail crime during the festive period, Garda personnel will also be assigned to specific retail crime detection operations.”
“This activity will be supported by wider detective and plain clothes resources from the Galway Division and will be guided by crime data analysis.”
“Those personnel will also adopt a robust approach to dealing with criminal offences and will pursue a pro-arrest policy for recidivist offenders, including strong bail objections where appropriate.”
Gardaí assigned to the operation will be supported by wider resources from the Galway Roads Policing Unit and Detective Units.
Galway Community Policing Gardaí will deploy the Garda Community Engagement van to locations around the city to support public engagement and offer crime prevention advice to members of the public, residents and the business community.
Gardaí have also asked motorists to park responsibly and to consider the impact of their parking on pedestrians and other road users.
This operation represents the initial phase of a High Visibility Policing and Retail Crime Reduction Plan for Galway City. It will run throughout the Christmas and New Year period.
Galway City Council has closed the city centre Christmas Market today due to Storm Bram.
Galway is under a status orange wind warning until 7pm this evening, with very strong to gale force southerly winds expected thoughout the day.
The Galway Christmas Market is set up in Eyre Square each year, running until late December.
The market has been closed by the city council today due to Storm Bram, as has the ice rink next to Leisureland in Salthill.
Galway City Museum by the Spanish Arch has also been closed today. The inflatable flood barrier has been put in place at Spanish Arch, where stormy weather frequently causes flooding.
The council already confirmed on Monday evening that Toft and Salthill car parks will be closed until further notice due to the flood risk.
Silverstrand Road, Ballyloughane Beach Road, and a portion of Rosshill Road have also been closed, as have the various woods around the city.
Further road closures may follow at Salthill/Seapoint Promenade and Grattan Road today if required by the council.
Met Eireann has warned that Storm Bram carries a significant risk of coastal flooding and wave overtopping, with winds coinciding with high tides.
The public are urged to stay away from coastal areas for the duration of the orange warning.
There is also a risk to drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians from fallen and flying debris during the storm.
is asking the public to help control the spread of the flu virus, as dozens of cases are putting the hospital under significant pressure.
On Monday, there were 60 people hospitalised with the flu across UHG and Portiuncula Hospital, with a particularly high number of children and older people presenting at the emergency department.
363 people in Galway were confirmed on laboratory testing with flu since the start of this flu season, including 175 last week. 202 people were hospitalised in the county since the start of this year’s flu season.
In response to this sharp increase in cases, the HSE is asking the public to please help to control the spread of flu within our communities and our health services by co-operating with visiting restrictions and infection control measures which have been introduced.
Symptoms of flu include a high temperature, aches and pains, headache, sore throat or cough. If you have any of these symptoms, please do not visit a loved one in the hospital.
You must postpone your visit until at least 48 hours after your symptoms have cleared. This will reduce the risk of spreading infection to vulnerable patients and healthcare staff.
A statement from the Saolta Group said that hospitals in Galway have had to introduce restrictions on visiting as a response to these outbreaks.
“We regret the impact these restrictions will have on patients and their families, especially at this time of year, but we need to do everything we can to control the spread of infection.”
“The hospitals will be facilitating one visitor per inpatient each day. Where a ward is managing a flu outbreak, visiting will be limited to compassionate grounds only.”
“These restrictions are temporary and subject to change based on daily activity levels so please check HSE.ie for information about visiting in your local hospital.”
“Everyone coming to the hospital should be extra vigilant. Please wash your hands and use hand gel regularly. Face masks are widely available across the hospital.”
People are also advised to know all of their healthcare options before attending the hospital. The out of hours GP service and your local pharmacy can provide advice and treatment in the first instance.
“Anyone with breathing difficulties or chest pain should attend the emergency department for treatment or call 112/999 in an emergency, and patients with non-life-threatening conditions should seek healthcare in the community.”
“As always, we treat our sickest patients first, which means that patients who attend the ED for routine and non-urgent treatment will experience very long waiting times.”
The HSE is urging every eligible person to get vaccinated against flu and COVID as soon as possible, both the public and healthcare staff.
The vaccines can stop infection, severe illness and prevent transmission to vulnerable people. Visit hse.ie, call HSELive on 1800 700 700 or talk to a participating GP or pharmacist to get a vaccine.
Galway City Council has closed a number of roads and car parks, along with taking other protective measures, ahead of the arrival of Storm Bram today.
Galway will be under a status orange wind warning from 10am to 9pm on Tuesday, with flooding and dangerous debris expected from the storm.
Since Monday evening, the city council has closed Toft and Salthill until further notice.
Siverstrand Road has been closed to the public, as has a section of the Rosshill Road along the wooded area, while only local access is allowed on Ballyloughane Beach Road.
The flood barrier has also been installed at the Spanish Arch, and sandbags are available to the public at the Tourist Kiosk in Salthill, Claddagh Hall, the Fire Station on Fr Burke Road, and the Spanish Arch.
The woods at Bearna, Terryland, Merlin, and Rosshill have also been closed until further notice due to the risk posed by the storm.
Met Eireann has warned of a risk of coastal flooding with wave overtopping from Storm Bram. Debris and loose objects will also pose a risk, and power outages are expected.
People are advised to keep away from coastal edges, harbours, piers and low-lying promenades during high tide.
Health and Social Care professionals at Galway University Hospitals who will be hosting the virtual career’s evening for secondary school students, from left: Fiona Rodgers, Speech and Language Therapy; Andrew O’Leary, Dietician; Deirdre Jennings, Medical Social Work; Sarah Connelly, Dietician; Eilish Keogh, Physiotherapy; and Sarah Lydon, Occupational Therapy.
A group of health and social care professionals at Galway University Hospitals (GUH) will be holding a virtual Careers Evening for secondary school students this week.
The event takes place this Thursday, December 11, at 6pm to give students an insight into careers in Physiotherapy, Social Work, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Nutrition and Dietetics.
Students will have an opportunity to ask questions and speak with qualified professionals who work within these areas of the hospital.
In addition, third level students who are currently undertaking courses for a range of health and social care professions will be available to give an overview of what student life is like and what the courses entail.
Deirdre Jennings, Medical Social Work, said, “The virtual careers evening offers students an inspiring glimpse into the heart of patient care.”
“By connecting them with the healthcare professionals who devote their days to compassion, skill, and service, we help young people see the profound human impact of these careers.”
“Opening our doors virtually allows us to encourage the next generation to imagine themselves in these roles supporting patients, strengthening communities and shaping a more caring future.”
Fiona Rodgers, Speech and Language Therapist, said, “Feedback from secondary school students and guidance counsellors who have participated in our previous career evenings indicates that they found the events highly beneficial.”
“Attendees noted that the sessions provided insights into the daily life of a professional that are not apparent from a college prospectus or course syllabus.”
“By hosting the event virtually, we can reach a wider audience and, in doing so, inspire and motivate the next generation of health professionals.”
The event will take place on the Microsoft Teams platform with the meeting ID: 338 411 167 795 60 and Passcode: Tc3HK3Ta
The timetable for the presentations by each speciality is as follows:
6pm – 6:15pm: Introduction to a Career in Health and Social Care Professions
Met Éireann has issued a Status Orange warning for Galway and 10 other counties in the south and west as Storm Bram is set to bring dangerous winds tomorrow.
An orange wind warning for Clare, Limerick, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, and Sligo will be in place from 10am to 6pm on Tuesday.
Another orange warning for Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Wexford will be in effect earlier, from 7am, but also end earlier, at 3pm Tuesday.
Storm Bram is expected to bring very strong to gale force southerly winds with the strongest winds along the coast tomorrow.
This may cause flooding in low lying coastal areas, especially during high tides, with waves expected to overtop.
The storm will also cause difficult travelling conditions with a warning of fallen or flying debris. Outdoor events are also expected to be impacted by the Storm on Tuesday.
After the expiration of the orange weather warnings, a status yellow wind warning for all of Ireland will remain in place until 9pm on Tuesday.
Irish Medtech, the Ibec group that represents the Medtech sector, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland, this week revealed the winners of the Irish Medtech Awards 2025, which are held as part of Medtech Rising in The Galmont, Galway.
It was a fantastic night for Galway-based Medtech as they enjoyed wins in the Emerging Medtech Company of the Year Award category with Palliare, the Collaboration in Medtech Award category with the Institute for Clinical Trials University of Galway, and Tom Kelly won Outstanding Contribution to Medtech.
The full list of winners:
Medtech Company of the Year Award: West Pharmaceutical Services Inc
Emerging Medtech Company of the Year Award: Palliare
Digital Health Innovation of the Year Award: CergenX
Best Process-Product Innovation in Medtech Award: Alcon Ireland
Collaboration in Medtech Award: Institute for Clinical Trials University of Galway
Medtech Partner/Supplier of the Year Award: West Pharmaceutical Services Inc
Best Talent Strategy in Medtech Award: Stryker
Sustainable Medtech Company of the Year Award: Johnson & Johnson Vision Care Ireland
John Nugent Department Manager, Medical Technologies and Healthcare Services, IDA Ireland, “A unique strength of Ireland’s medtech ecosystem is our ability to collaborate.”
“This year’s Collaboration in Medtech Award goes to the Institute for Clinical Trials, which is a clinical gateway for medtech and digital health that is helping to transform how early-stage medtech trials are delivered in Ireland and offering insights into need-driven research to improve global health outcomes.”
“The institute has worked with organisations from Irish and international startups to global multinationals such as Medtronic, InterVene, and Luminate Medical to achieve clinical success.”
1 of 2
Cepta Duffy, Head of Lifescience and Healthtech at Enterprise Ireland, added, “Ireland’s global medtech hub is bolstered by dynamic start-ups. This years’ Emerging Medtech Company of the Year Award is Palliare.”
“Palliare is the third startup from John and Caroline O’Dea, based in Galway, Ireland and California in the US, with turnover doubling annually since 2022, thanks to its success as a leading technology provider in areas such as surgical smoke evacuation during endoscopic surgery.”
TG4 is proud to present GAA 70’s – Réabhlóid Shóisialta (GAA 70’s – A Social Revolution), a brand-new, celebratory bilingual, feature-length documentary, that captures one of the most defining eras in Gaelic Games and Irish society.
Produced by Bankos Tales for TG4 with the support of Coimisiún na Meán, the film is shot in stunning 4K and offers unprecedented access to the legendary figures who shaped a golden decade of Gaelic Football.
In this cinematic and emotionally rich documentary, some of the greatest players from Dublin, Galway and Kerry reunite in their county colours to reflect on their friendships, rivalries, and the journey to Croke Park.
The programme weaves a continuous narrative shaped by intimate interviews, rare archive footage, re-enactments, and unforgettable match moments.
It also unearths hidden stories in locations including Galway Golf Course with the Dubs and the Tribesmen close to the banks of the picturesque Galway Bay; and the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, where iconic figures from the Kingdom and the Capital reflect on an era that shaped the modern GAA
Tommy Joe Gilmore (Galway): “The appointment of Kevin Heffernan was a major, major coup.”
Johnny Hughes (Galway): “We foolishly fell into the trap, it was naivety on our part.”
Pat Spillane (Kerry): “Micko came on board, we hopped on this magic carpet and he took us on the most magical ride.”
The documentary contextualises the evolution of Gaelic Football within the broader social changes of 1970s Ireland. With unique insight, contributors recall how the sport, and the country, entered a period of profound cultural and social transformation.
Mickey Ned O’Sullivan (Kerry captain, 1975): “1974 changed everything.”
Martin ‘Major’ Joyce (St Christopher Gaels GFC): “It was all down to Kevin Heffernan, he gave an awful lot of inspiration not just to traveller people but settled people.”
Roy Curtis (journalist): “It wasn’t just a cultural revolution; it was a sociological revolution.”
The film revisits historic locations including Croke Park, Parnell Park, Scoil Mhuire Marino, and Ballinteer St John’s GFC, one of many clubs born from the sporting renaissance of the 70s.
During the 1974 anniversary celebrations, an extraordinary coincidence unfolded: Dublin were drawn to play Galway in the 2024 Championship quarter-final. As both teams watched the game together, the Tribesmen celebrated a breakthrough moment 90 years in the making.
David Hickey (Dublin): “That Galway team of the 70’s was probably the greatest team never to win an All-Ireland.”
Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry): “There was ‘Heffo’ raising the bar and Kerry responding.”
Jimmy Barry Murphy (Cork): “It developed into one of the greatest Irish sporting rivalries of all time.”
The documentary culminates with the electrifying Dublin–Kerry rivalry that became “box office,” celebrating its golden jubilee while honouring the memory of fallen comrades.
Kevin Moran (Dublin & Irish soccer international): “Believe me there was no love lost on the pitch… we’d go through each other.”
Jarlath Burns (President of the GAA): “As a wee boy in South Armagh, it was your rivalry that defined my childhood.”
GAA 70’s – Réabhlóid Shóisialta is a documentary for everyone, those who lived through the decade and those discovering its history for the first time.
It reflects on the origins of modern Gaelic Games, establishing new approaches, the social bonds formed through football, and the legacies that continue to inspire new generations.
Alan Milton (GAA): “I think that era gave the association the confidence and self-assurance to try new things and to progress in ways that might never have happened without that era.”
The film also shines a light on the landmark inaugural Ladies All-Ireland Final in 1974, offering essential context to the evolution of women’s sport in Ireland.
Paul Rouse (historian): “Man walked on the moon before women could play football in Croke Park.”
The documentary features an extensive cast of legendary players and influential figures including:
Dublin: Tony Hanahoe, Robbie Kelleher, Bobby Doyle, Gay O’Driscoll, Alan Larkin
University Hospital Galway is dealing with a high number of flu cases, and is asking anyone with symptoms not to visit the hospital.
A statement from UHG said that there has been a sharp increase in flu cases recently, both in the community and at the hospital.
As a result, for the safety of patients and others, anyone who has symptoms of the flu is being asked not to visit the hospital.
These symptoms include:
Cough;
sore throat;
fever;
runny or blocked nose;
shortness of breath;
fatigue;
aches & pains;
or gastrointestinal symptoms
If you must attend the hospital, minimise your risk of catching or spreading an infection by ensuring the following:
• If you have any symptoms you should not come to visit until all symptoms are fully resolved for at least 48 hours;
• Masks are available at reception, please wear a mask to assist in the protection of visitors, staff and patients.
• Practice good cough and sneeze etiquette by covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing;
• Please do not use patient toilets on the wards or en-suites;
• Clean your hands regularly with alcohol hand gel.
These measures are vital to avoid spreading the virus to patients, visitors and staff and the hospital would like to thank the public for their co-operation at this time.
Kevin Burke, Dermot Byrne, Noriana Kennedy & Jim Murray.
Music Network is thrilled to announce their National Touring Programme in what will be a banner year for the organisation as they celebrate their 40th anniversary in 2026.
Firstly, they present an unmissable collaboration featuring four extraordinary artists who collectively have shared their music with audiences over four decades of the National Touring Programme.
Accordion maestro Dermot Byrne, legendary fiddler and member of the iconic Bothy Band, Kevin Burke, acclaimed singer-songwriter Noriana Kennedy (The Whileaways), and lauded guitarist Jim Murray come together for an exceptional 14-date nationwide tour beginning on 10th February, followed by performances in London and Paris.
Then from 25th March to 2nd April, Music Network presents another brand new collaboration featuring two of the most exciting rising stars of the classical music world. accordionist extraordinaire Théo Ould and stellar soprano Alison Langer.
Together this duo will present a fascinating programme entitled Confessions from Dusk till Dawn, exploring the night as a space of poetry, intimacy and mystery.
From Schubert’s romanticism to Poulenc’s whimsical miniatures, their musical journey will also pay homage to the genius of Dvořák and Kurt Weill along the way.
The programme will also feature a new Music Network commission by Grammy-nominated Irish composer Donnacha Dennehy.
From 8th to 19th April, experience the mesmerising artistry of Trio Bohémo, one of Europe’s most exciting young chamber groups, as they make their Irish debut with Music Network.
Known for their captivating performances and impressive command of the piano trio repertoire, the ensemble will perform a beautiful programme featuring Schubert’s serenely lyrical Notturno in E-flat major, alongside inspirational and dramatic works by Ravel and Beethoven.
Trio Bohémo
A new large-scale work by Irish composer Rhona Clarke, co-commissioned by Music Network and Music Generation to mark Music Network’s 40th anniversary and celebrate the long-standing relationship between the two organisations, will also premiere during the tour.
Clarke’s composition is a three-movement work based on poems reflecting on ‘hope’ as an enduring force in human life.
It has been written for the internationally renowned Trio Bohémo, to be performed with Music Generation youth string ensembles and adult choirs from Louth and Kerry.
The piece, titled The Unconquerable Soul, will receive two performances during the tour. Conducted by Amy Ryan, the first will take place on 15 April at St. Peter’s Church of Ireland, Drogheda, with Setanta Choir and Music Generation Louth Senior String Orchestra.
The second, on 19 April at Siamsa Tíre, Tralee, features Cór Seoda Tíre and Music Generation Kerry String Ensemble.
The Seamus Egan Project Photo Credit Dan Jentzen
This will be followed by The Séamus Egan Project, arriving on our shores for the very first time, led by the celebrated multi-instrumentalist, composer and co-founder of Irish-American supergroup Solas.
Hailed as a creative force in traditional music, Séamus is celebrated for his boundary-pushing artistry and ability to make every performance feel fresh, soulful and full of life. Joined by a remarkable ensemble of collaborators, this tour takes place from 7-16 May.
From 19-27 June, Music Network presents the stunning sounds of the Shuteen Erdenebaatar Quartet.
This hard-swinging yet deeply sensitive ensemble is led by award-winning pianist and composer Shuteen Erdenebaatar, hailed by Jazzwise as ‘one of the most exciting young talents in jazz’.
She blends classical precision with jazz to create highly distinctive music full of melodic beauty that speaks directly to the heart.
In September, Music Network continues its 40th anniversary celebrations with a dynamic new collaboration featuring four of Ireland’s most outstanding traditional musicians.
This new ensemble unites the phenomenal voices of Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh and Pauline Scanlon, two of Ireland’s most striking interpreters of traditional and contemporary song, alongside Tom Morrow, Dervish’s distinguished fiddle player and acclaimed guitarist, singer and songwriter John Doyle.
Then, in October, audiences can experience the electrifying sound world of Grammy-winning pianist and composer Bill Laurance.
A founding member of five-time Grammy Award-winning group Snarky Puppy, Bill has wowed audiences around the globe with his genre-defying performances and compositions.
In November, Music Network brings 2026 to a spectacular close with the phenomenal Cheng² Duo. Acclaimed for their magnetic chemistry and flawless performances, cellist Bryan Cheng and pianist Silvie Cheng share more than musical brilliance.
As siblings, their deep bond and intuitive connection infuse every note with warmth, vitality and authenticity. Performing an exquisite programme entitled A Hero’s Welcome, expect to hear the finest interpretations of sonatas by Brahms and Poulenc, an enchanting fairytale by Janáček and a gorgeous Music Network commission.
In addition to these exciting tours, Music Network has planned some incredible one-off events and projects in celebration of their milestone anniversary.
Collaborations and partnerships with The Ark, Riverbank Arts Centre in Kildare and glór in Clare, Music Generation, National Botanic Gardens, and the Office of Public Works (OPW) are all confirmed and further details will be announced in the New Year.
Now that the Christmas season is upon us, don’t forget that music makes a perfect gift, and tickets to any of the Music Network tours will be something that the recipient can look forward to as a way to chase away the January blues!
Tickets, gift cards and further details are available on Music Network’s website – www.musicnetwork.ie.
10 Feb – 1 March: Kevin Burke, Dermot Byrne, Noriana Kennedy & Jim Murray, €10 – €26, Kerry, Clare, Cork, Wexford, Wicklow, Dublin, Louth, Donegal, Roscommon, Offaly, Galway, Mayo, London and Paris.
HSE West and North West has called on all eligible people in Galway to get vaccinated against flu immediately.
Data shows that the total cases notified to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HSPC) nationally have more than doubled, showing that flu cases are surging within communities.
The number of people presenting to the hospital with flu is increasing, and this is putting pressure on already busy healthcare services.
Urging vaccine take-up, Tony Canavan, Regional Executive Officer, HSE West and North West, said, “There has been a rapid increase in the number of patients with influenza, including those needing hospitalisation nationally, and we’re seeing similar across the West and North West.”
“The influenza season has started earlier, and the risk this presents to those susceptible to more severe disease is concerning. This is putting pressure on our hospitals.”
“It is really important those groups eligible to get a flu vaccine, including; those over 60 years, those aged 2-17 years, people with underlying medical conditions and healthcare workers, take action now to protect themselves and others by getting vaccinated. This will help to reduce the number of people who need treatment in hospital.”
HPSC figures show the heightened flu activity is largely attributable to the AH3N2 variant. HPSC modelling projects significant pressures on healthcare services in the coming weeks.
During the week ending on November 29, some 418 cases were reported in hospitals across the country, compared to just 213 the week before.
Free flu vaccines are available at participating pharmacies and GP clinics. For healthcare workers, free flu vaccines are available in staff vaccination clinics and at Pharmacies and GP clinics.
Mr Canavan said, “We’re expecting to see more presentations at Emergency Departments in the coming days and weeks, as a result of flu. Please consider all care options before coming to the hospital.”
“We have plans in place to manage high attendances, and we are doing everything we can to improve the flow of patients through the ED to minimise delays for people.”
All visitors to hospitals in the West and North West, will be required to practice good hand hygiene and use hand gel regularly, face masks are available for use throughout each hospital.
17 new speed camera zones will be operational in Galway from January 1, among nearly 400 new zones introduced nationwide.
390 new safety camera zones...
17 new speed camera zones will be operational in Galway from January 1, among nearly 400 new zones introduced nationwide.
390 new safety camera zones...
