Today is the last day for voters to register to take part in the Galway West bye-election being held later this month.

On deadline day An Coimisiún is visiting Scoil Chuimsitheach Chiaráin in An Cheathrú Rua and Scoil Phobail Mhic Dara in Carna to register new voters.

This is alongside running the last day of its voter registration pop-up shop in Eyre Square in Galway City which has been running since Friday.

The pop-up show will operate from the kiosk in Eyre Square until 4pm on Tuesday for anyone who wants to register.

Art O’Leary – Chief Executive of An Coimisiún stated, “At every election people turn up at the polling station ready to vote, only to be told that they haven’t added their name to the register or else their details are incorrect.”

“Don’t be that person, act today, check your details online at CheckTheRegister.ie. Your vote is your voice, check the register today to make sure that your voice is heard in these important bye elections in Dublin Central and Galway West.”

Funding has been awarded for repairs to historic buildings on Dominick Street which house Áras na nGael and Galway Arts Centre.

A total of €170,000 has been awarded under the Historic Structures Fund 2026 for roof works on No.45 and No.47 Dominick Street Lower.

Michael Scott, Executive Architectural Conservation Officer, Galway City Council commented that the buildings are a good example of ‘Galway Georgian’ architecture.

This is characterised by “robust form, refined detailing, simple composition, a dignified presence to the street, and constructed in limestone, a material synonymous with the built heritage of the city since the medieval period.”

The two buildings have a storied history, with connections to the Persse family and Lady Gregory. They have also been used as a technical school and the offices of the then Galway City Borough Council prior to their current function.

“With a combined presence of over 125 years, Áras na Gael and Galway Arts Centre have in their respective ways worked to promote and enhance the value, understanding and enjoyment of the arts, culture, and language in the city,” Michael Scott added.

Following completion of Conservation Management Plans (CMP) for both buildings in 2025-2026, the need for a shared approach to the roof was identified in their Conservation Management Plans.

Megs Morley, Artistic Director, Galway Arts Centre said, “This Historic Structures Fund award is hugely significant for Galway Arts Centre and for the wider cultural life of the city.”

“As one of Galway’s most important cultural organisations, and as custodians of a historic building at the heart of the city, this investment will allow us to undertake essential works that protect both the fabric of the building and the vital artistic activity that takes place within it.”

“No. 47 Dominick Street has been home to generations of creativity, dialogue and cultural exchange, and this support helps ensure it can continue to serve artists, audiences and communities long into the future.”

“We are proud to steward this important part of the city’s heritage as a living space for contemporary culture, and are deeply grateful for this support.”

Mícheál Mac Aoidh, Manager of Áras na nGael commented, “Gael Forbairt na Gaillimhe, the operators of Áras na nGael, are delighted to receive news of the grant from the Historic Structures Fund.”

“Áras na nGael is a distinguished historical landmark in Galway city, providing resources, services and cultural activities to a thriving, vibrant and inclusive Irish language community in Galway city.”

“It is a building where Irish is not only learned but lived and celebrated. The building itself is central to the organisations identity and success, symbolizing its enduring commitment to the Irish language and culture. It is a space where Irish is not only learned, but lived.”

Blackrock Diving Tower in Salthill will be closed to the public at different times multiple days this week while essential repairs to storm damage are taking place.

The main access walkway to Blackrock Diving Tower is being resurfaced by Galway City Council.

This is due to damage to the walkway caused by successive storms over multiple years.

Unfortunately, the works will require closure of the Tower for up to three days. This closure is necessary to allow the works to be carried out safely and to ensure appropriate concrete curing times.

Galway City Council has said they will endeavour to schedule these works at times that minimise disruption.

However, they must be undertaken during low-tide conditions and, ideally, during dry weather.

A design team has been appointed for the project to deliver two new ward blocks with a combined 300 beds at University Hospital Galway.

Perkins & Will together with Cullen Payne Architects have been appointed as to lead an Integrated Design Team through all stages of the design and delivery of the first two major projects on the UHG campus.

The delivery of 300 new beds is meant to alleviate overcrowding, address capacity deficits and reduce the amount of time people are waiting for care, while also supporting future healthcare needs in the community.

The development of ward blocks A and B, each comprising 150 beds, are the first two phases of a major capital programme to increase capacity and improve patient experience at the region’s only model 4 hospital.

A number of phased projects of significant scale are planned in addition to the two ward blocks including; a new ED, critical care unit, new surgical theatres, a cancer centre, medical laboratory, women and children’s unit and a new, permanent helipad which is critical to the functioning of UHG as a Model 4 tertiary hospital.

In addition to providing additional inpatient bed capacity, Ward Block A will include a shell and core level for a future Diagnostics Suite and Ward Block B will include a multi-level shell and core for a future Maternity Unit.

A detailed, costed feasibility study for each of these fit-out projects will be developed at the early design stage of each building.

The new ward Block A will be situated between the current Outpatients Department and the Nurse’s Home in close proximity to the Emergency Department.

Block B will be located to the rear of the hospital, near the new radiation oncology building. Both buildings will be connected to the main hospital across a number of floors.

Considerable enabling works are required to clear sites in advance of construction and separate, dedicated Design Teams are already appointed and proceeding with the design and procurement of these works.

The works include the relocation of underground services, decanting of existing services and demolition of substandard, low rise buildings.

Tony Canavan, Regional Executive Officer, HSE West and North West said, “The Development Control Plan for UHG represents the largest ever investment in healthcare infrastructure in the West and North West region and I am delighted to see these first two projects progress to design stage.”

“The development of ward blocks A and B are a critical component of the plan to reform healthcare for our communities.”

“The 300 new beds will enable UHG to provide better, safer and more timely care; will significantly reduce waiting times for patients and will alleviate the consistent capacity pressures which the hospital experiences.”

Chris Kane, UHG Hospital Manager, said, “UHG is one of the busiest hospitals in the country and attendances continue to grow. At present, meeting our Patient Experience Time targets is a challenge and during periods of high demand, our patients can face unacceptably long wait times. This is not the standard of care we strive for.”

“The need for additional inpatient beds has been identified in the Government’s Acute Hospital Inpatient Bed Capacity Expansion Plan and the delivery of 300 new beds is an absolute priority to reduce overcrowding and long wait times.”

“Over the next few months, the Design Team will be engaging with staff and wider stakeholders as the detailed design for these two new buildings take shape.”

Gardaí are asking the public for any information that can help to locate a missing 47-year old woman last seen on Friday evening.

Gráinne Brown has been reported missing from Ennis, Co. Clare this weekend.

Grainne is described as being approximately 5 foot 4 inches in height, of slim build with brown eyes and straight brown hair.

When last seen Grainne was wearing grey sweat pants, a brown fleece, white shoes, and a fracture boot on her right foot.

Grainne was last seen in Ennis at 6:00pm on Friday, May 1, 2026. Gardaí and Grainne’s family are concerned for her well being.

Anyone with information on Grainne Browne’s whereabouts is asked to contact Ennis Garda Station on 065-6848100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

A Mayo man is in serious condition after being hit by a car in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Gardaí are investigating a serious road traffic collision on the Moneen Road, Castlebar which occurred at approximately 3:30am on Sunday.

A male pedestrian in his late 30s was seriously injured when a collision occurred between him and a car.

He was transferred from the scene to Mayo University Hospital and remains in a serious condition.

There were no other injuries as a result of this incident Gardaí have said.

The road remains closed and the scene will be examined by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators.

Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to this collision to come forward.

Gardaí are also appealing for any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) who were travelling in the area at the time of the collision to make this footage available to Gardaí.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Castlebar Garda Station on (094) 903 8200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

The Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr David Collins, has announced details of this year’s Cathaoirleach’s Ball, which will take place on Sunday, 31st May at the Raheen Woods Hotel in Athenry.

Proceeds from the annual gala event will go to the National Breast Cancer Research Institute and Epilepsy Ireland.

The National Breast Cancer Research Institute funds a research programme at the University of Galway focused on improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

Currently, 1 in 7 Irish women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, with more than 3,500 cases identified each year.

Epilepsy Ireland, established in 1966, supports people living with epilepsy and their families through community-based services, education and advocacy. The organisation also works to raise public awareness of the condition and improve services and care nationwide.

Cathaoirleach Cllr Collins said the event provides an opportunity for people to support two organisations carrying out important work, while also bringing the community together for an evening of entertainment.

“I want to acknowledge the public and business community who have always generously supported this annual event, which has raised much-needed funds for charities over the years.”

“I hope the funds raised this year will contribute to the ongoing work of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute and Epilepsy Ireland at local, national and international levels,” he said.

Music on the night will be provided by Weightless Astronauts, with Galway Bay FM broadcaster Ronan Lardner acting as MC.

Tickets for the event are available through Corporate Services at Galway County Council, Prospect Hill. Those interested can contact 091 509316 or email secretary@galwaycoco.ie.

Health services in Galway and Roscommon are reminding the public to be aware of all available care options for the May Bank Holiday weekend.

Bank holiday periods traditionally place additional pressure on health services, which can be further compounded by good weather.

People are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the range of options available and to consider the most appropriate option before attending Emergency Departments.

Emergency Departments will experience higher than normal attendances due to the bank holiday period, and the HSE is asking for the public’s patience, particularly where longer waiting times may occur.

People are advised to plan ahead, choose the most appropriate care option for their needs, and to stay sun smart while enjoying time outdoors.

Ann Cosgrove, HSE Integrated Healthcare Area Manager, Galway and Roscommon said, “Our priority this bank holiday weekend is to ensure patients receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time.”

“While Emergency Departments are there to treat serious illness and injury, a wide range of community-based services are available and may offer quicker and more appropriate care for less urgent needs.”

“Even though we have plans in place across hospital and community services to manage increased demand over the Bank holiday weekend, we are encouraging people to consider alternatives such as their local pharmacy, GP services and Injury Units which can provide timely advice and treatment for many non-urgent conditions.”

“Community pharmacies can also support a range of minor illnesses through the Common Conditions Service, helping patients access appropriate care quickly and safely, and ensuring Emergency Departments remain available for those who require urgent or life-saving care.”

“We wish everyone a safe and healthy weekend. Our staff remain available to provide care when needed, and all patients who attend an Emergency Department will be assessed and treated, with those who are most seriously ill or injured seen as a priority.”

Care options available this May Bank Holiday weekend include:

• GP Out-of-Hours Service (Westdoc):
  If you urgently need to see a GP over the bank holiday weekend, you should contact your local out-of-hours GP service, Westdoc. The service operates across the weekend, appointments must be made in advance. GP Out of Hours information is available on the HSE website here.
• Your local pharmacy 
  Community pharmacists provide expert advice and over-the-counter treatments for a wide range of minor illnesses. In addition to this expert advice, a new service is available which allows pharmacists to supply prescription-only medication without the need to see a GP.
  The following common conditions can be treated under the Common Conditions Service; allergic rhinitis, cold sores, conjunctivitis, impetigo, oral thrush, shingles, cystitis (uncomplicated urinary tract infection), vaginal thrush. Information about the scheme is available on the HSE website here.
• Injury Units – Roscommon Injury Unit:
  Roscommon Injury Unit is open from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week, including bank holidays. It treats non-life-threatening injuries such as broken bones, dislocations, sprains, wounds, scalds and minor burns. The unit provides services such as X-rays, plaster casts, and wound care. No appointment is required; patients can attend directly. You can find your local injury unit here.
• Mental health supports
  Information about when to get help, organisations that provide mental health services and types of specialist services are available here.

More than 500 students, including 14 PhD graduates, were conferred at Atlantic Technological University’s Spring Conferring Ceremonies, held across its Galway, Sligo and Donegal campuses this week.

The ceremonies brought together graduates from across the west and north‑west, along with families, friends and staff, to mark academic achievement across a wide range of disciplines and award levels, from Higher Certificate to Doctoral degrees.

Spring sunshine across all locations added to the sense of occasion, with campus celebrations reflecting the optimism of the graduating classes.

Now one of the largest higher‑education institutions in Ireland, ATU has more than 30,000 students across nine campuses and continues to attract increasing numbers of first‑choice applicants.

Addressing graduates, ATU President Dr Orla Flynn reflected on both the significance of the day and the university’s rapid progress.

“While we are relatively new as a University, we continue to grow at pace – we are also now a University of choice with increasing numbers of students choosing ATU as their first preference.”

“For us, the real measure of our impact is through our graduates. They will be the positive change our region and society needs through their talent and hard work, and we are proud to welcome them into our growing ATU alumni community.”

Over 5,000 more students will be conferred at ATU later in the Autumn.

Members of the public are being asked to have their say on safety in their communities as part of a new consultation process launched by the Galway County Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP).

The initiative aims to gather views from people aged 12 and over on issues affecting safety, wellbeing and inclusion, with the public’s feedback set to play a key role in shaping a new Community Safety Plan.

A series of public meetings will be held in libraries and community venues across the county over the coming weeks, giving residents an opportunity to raise concerns and suggest solutions directly.

Meetings will take place from 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm at Loughrea Library on May 8, and in An Cheathrú Rua and Oughterard on May 15.

A final session is scheduled for Oranmore Library on May 29, with additional engagement events planned for June on Inis Mór, Inis Oírr and Inishbofin.

A countywide online survey has also been launched through Galway County Council’s website at www.galway.ie, asking people about safety in public spaces, online, on public transport, in housing and in rural areas.

Survey participants are also invited to highlight their main concerns and put forward ideas that could help improve safety across their communities.

LCSP Vice Chair Aodán McDonogh said the process is designed to ensure the plan reflects lived experience across the county.

“This consultation process is about listening directly to the people of County Galway. Community safety must be shaped by the lived experience of residents in every town, village and island community.”

“I would encourage everyone, especially young people and those from marginalised groups, to take part in the survey and attend the public meetings.”

LCSP Coordinator Marie Nicholson said the aim is to build an evidence-based plan that reflects real concerns in communities.

She added, “The partnership is urging people from all parts of the county to take part. Local insight is essential in identifying concerns and setting future priorities. All responses will be treated anonymously.”

The LCSP, established in late 2025 to replace Joint Policing Committees, brings together agencies including Galway County Council, An Garda Síochána, the HSE, Tusla and community groups.

It is tasked with developing a three-year Community Safety Plan and overseeing local initiatives, supported by the National Office for Community Safety.

At its meeting on April 14, members confirmed plans for the public consultations and survey, and discussed engagement with older people, people with disabilities, young people and minority communities, as well as ongoing work by subgroups.

A commemorative plaque has been unveiled to honour a Galway soldier fatally wounded while serving on a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon over 45 years ago.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr. Mike Cubbard has joined members of the family of the late Private Stephen Griffin to unveil the stone plaque which has been erected adjacent to Bóthar Stiofáin, Rahoon, which is named in his honour.

Pte Griffin was just 21 years old when he was fatally wounded on April 7, 1980, at At Tiri, South Lebanon. He had been serving there with the 46th Infantry Battalion. He was the first Irish soldier killed by hostile action on UNIFIL service.

A newly installed stone plaque was unveiled at a commemorative ceremony on Sunday last, which was supported by Galway City Council and the Irish Defence Forces.

Defence Forces chaplain Fr. Paul Murphy said a prayer at the event, which was attended by representatives of Renmore Barracks and some of Pte Griffin’s former colleagues from Collins Barracks in Cork, where he had been based.

Speaking at the event, Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr. Mike Cubbard said it is fitting that the plaque has been installed to remember the sacrifice of Pte Griffin.

“I am honoured to have been invited to unveil this plaque, along with members of the Griffin family, on behalf of the people of Galway. Many people throughout the city, particularly in Stephen’s home area of Rahoon, remember his tragic passing.”

“This plaque will now keep his memory alive and help younger generations to learn about his sacrifice and the positive impact and legacy left by Stephen and other Irish peacekeepers.”

“In recent weeks and months, we have seen stark reminders of the dangers faced by our peacekeepers in Lebanon.”

“This plaque also reminds us of the positive contribution and legacy of Ireland’s Defence Forces personnel and their peacekeeping missions in Lebanon and elsewhere, over many years.”

Speaking on behalf of the family, Stephen’s sister Áine said, “We are very grateful that this plaque has been erected in memory of Stephen. It will help ensure that he will be remembered for years to come, and I want to thank all of those who have helped to make this possible.”

“Recent months have reminded us of how peace is uncertain. Our family are very conscious of all peacekeepers, and particularly those who, like Stephen, made the ultimate sacrifice while endeavouring to protect it.”

“We want to thank those who attended this event, including friends, family, elected representatives, army personnel and Stephen’s former colleagues.”

The stone plaque has been installed during ongoing works on the Bóthar Stiofáin Active Travel Scheme, which is nearing completion.

The erection of the plaque had been requested by Galway City Councillors during the planning phase for this project.

People in Galway are being urged to ensure they are registered to vote ahead of the bye-election taking place later this month.

A by-election for Catherine Connolly’s former seat in Galway West will be held on Friday, May 22.

The deadline to register or update your voter registration is Tuesday, May 5.

Ireland’s independent electoral commission, An Coimisiún Toghcháin, is advising voters in Galway West to act now if they want to have their say in the upcoming election.

The quickest and easiest way to register to vote or to update your details is to go to www.checktheregister.ie

Art O’Leary, Chief Executive of An Coimisiún Toghcháin, is urging people to act straight away to register or to update your details so that come Friday, May 22, they can use their vote.

“Now that we have an official date for the bye-elections, the people of Dublin Central and Galway West can start thinking in earnest about who they want as their new TDs in the Dáil.

“The clock is ticking to get yourself registered to vote if you’re a first-time voter, or to update your voting details if you’ve moved house, returned to Ireland from abroad or recently became an Irish citizen. The easiest way to do this is to go to www.checktheregister.ie”.

“Through these two bye-elections as Ireland’s independent electoral commission we will be working to give people access to clear and impartial information about what bye-elections are, voter registration and how to cast their vote.”

“Your vote is your voice, so my appeal to people across Dublin Central and Galway West is to make sure that your voice is heard on Friday, May 22.”

A leading international expert on Myalgic encephalomyelitis, also called chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) will be giving a free talk in Galway in May.

For ME Awareness Month in May Dr Amolak Bansa will be giving five free talks around the country organised by the Irish ME/CFS Association.

Before the Covid pandemic, between 10,000 and 20,000 people in Ireland were believed to suffer from Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), now often diagnosed under the name Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS).

It is thought that the figures have now grown dramatically. Vera Kindlon, Chairperson of the Irish ME/CFS Association, explains why awareness-raising is important.

“While things have improved in the last decade, many people still experience a considerable delay in obtaining a firm diagnosis. Research has been published which shows that an early diagnosis can greatly improve the prognosis.”

“Without a diagnosis, relations with family and friends can be strained and arrangements with employers or schools become very difficult. Having a name for what is wrong with them allows patients to better manage their condition.”

“They can also then get in touch with other sufferers, learning how others have dealt with similar problems and gaining support and empathy from those who know exactly what it is like.”

“We are lucky to have a recognised world expert on the condition come to speak with us to share his knowledge. We hope patients across the country will benefit from the wealth of his experience.”

Symptoms of ME/CFS include overwhelming flu-like exhaustion made worse by exertion (physical or mental exertion), muscle and joint pains, sore throats, swollen glands, disturbed sleep, impaired concentration & memory, dizziness and headaches.

A particular feature of the disease is that the condition waxes and wanes over time and symptoms can fluctuate a great deal from day to day, or even within a day.

Orla Ni Chomhrai, host of the Galway meeting (and secretary of the Irish ME/CFS Association) says, “We are delighted to host Dr Bansal for this meeting in Galway.”

“He has decades of clinical experience treating ME/CFS patients, as well as conducting research into the condition. It will be great to have an opportunity to listen to him at this talk as well as having an opportunity to ask questions.”

Talks about this condition will be held on the following dates:

• Saturday, May 16: Maldron Hotel Dublin Airport. 2:30 PM
• Monday, May 18: The Carraig Centre, Ballincollig, Cork. 7 PM
• Thursday, May 21: Great National South Court Hotel, Raheen, Limerick. 12 noon
• Saturday, May 23: Maldron Hotel, Sandy Road, Galway. 6 PM
• Sunday, May 24: Radisson Blu Hotel, Sligo. 5:30 PM

Admission is free, with no advanced booking required. Following each talk, there will be a questions-and-answers session. Event includes free tea/coffee & biscuits.

Further details are available from the Association: 01-2350965, info@irishmecfs.org, or the Association’s website www.irishmecfs.org

A man in his 60s was killed in a single vehicle car crash north of Ballinasloe on Wednesday morning.

Gardaí are appealing for witness that may have information about a single vehicle collision which occurred at Tyrur, Newbridge, Ballinasloe at around 9:45am on Wednesday.

The driver of the car, a man aged in his 60s, was pronounced dead at the scene. His body has been removed to mortuary at Portiuncula Hospital.

No other injuries have been reported, and the road is closed for technical examination by Forensic Collision investigators.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward.

Road users who may have camera footage, including dash-cam footage and were travelling in the area between 9:30am and 9:50am are asked to make this available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Ballinasloe Garda Station on 090 9631890, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.