University Hospital Galway has activated surge areas and is warning of long waiting times to be seen as high numbers of people attend the ED today.

Yesterday 323 people attended the Emergency Department at UHG. As of this morning, there are 29 patients on trolleys in the ED, another 22 patients on ward trolleys, and an additional 38 patients in surge areas.

The hospital is working to reduce delays in the emergency department and is asking patients to consider all healthcare options before coming to the ED.

Everyone who presents will be treated, with priority given to those who are seriously ill or injured. Patients who do not require urgent care may be waiting longer.

All available beds in the hospital are in use, with long waiting times for people to be admitted to a bed from the ED.

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,” a statement from UHG said.

“Urgent and time-sensitive procedures 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.”

Unless their situation is an emergency, people are being asked to consider their GP, the out of hours service, or Roscommon Injury Unit in the first instance.

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.

Children receiving care at Portiuncula Hospital are benefiting from the introduction of new virtual reality headsets to make their stay easier.

The system, called Smileyscope, uses immersive VR storytelling to help distract and relax children during procedures such as blood tests, cannulation, and vaccinations.

By transporting young patients into engaging, interactive worlds, the headset helps shift their focus away from the clinical environment and potentially uncomfortable procedures.

Clinical teams report that the introduction of the headsets is having a clear and positive impact. Many children are calmer and more comfortable during procedures, helping to reduce distress for them and their families.

The technology has proven particularly effective in managing needle phobia and injection anxiety, providing distraction during blood tests and cannulation, and promoting relaxation during imaging procedures or pre-operative care.

Carly Smith, Assistant Director of Nursing for Paediatrics at the hospital said, “We are always looking for ways to make the hospital experience as positive as possible for children and their families.”

“The introduction of Smileyscope is a wonderful example of how innovation can support compassionate, child-centred care. Seeing children feel calmer and more confident during procedures is incredibly encouraging for both staff and families.”

Play specialists and nursing staff have welcomed the technology as an additional tool to support child-centred care.

By combining clinical expertise with innovative distraction techniques, the hospital continues to prioritise both emotional wellbeing and high-quality treatment.

Speaking about her son’s experience using Smileyscope, Theresa Hynes said: “As a parent, seeing your child need a medical procedure like blood tests can be stressful and it’s never easy watching them feel anxious or upset. However, using the Smilescope made a remarkable difference for us.”

“When Luke used it in the children’s ward, it immediately shifted his focus away from what was happening around him. Instead of worrying about the procedure, he was completely absorbed in what he was seeing through the headset.”

“It turned what could have been a frightening experience into something much calmer and more manageable,” she said.

Just over €250,000 in funding has been allocated for projects to improve the water quality in Galway’s rivers, lakes, and canals this year.

The funding has been awarded through the Community Water Development Fund and the Catchment Support Fund, both administered by the Local Authority Waters Programme.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne, welcomed the announcement. “Local action by communities and groups is critical in our efforts to protect our waters.”

“Through the Community Water Development Fund and the Catchment Support Fund, we are providing significant investment in the grassroots work of local communities and voluntary groups who care deeply about water quality in their local areas.”

“My Department’s funding supports these groups to deliver meaningful projects that protect and restore local rivers, lakes and streams.”

Under the Community Water Development Fund, local communities and groups receive grants for projects and initiatives to enhance local water bodies thereby helping to improve water quality and protect biodiversity.

While the Catchment Support Fund builds the capacity of community groups actively involved in water quality management by providing financial assistance for their core costs, including staff salaries, administration and promotional materials.

Both funds help community groups and organisations to deliver a wide range of projects to improve water quality nationwide, including:

• River and catchment conservation and restoration: initiatives to restore and protect local rivers and their ecosystems.
• Community engagement: programmes that promote water stewardship and raise awareness about water quality issues.
• Biodiversity enhancement: projects that support habitats and species dependent on clean water.
• Preparation of reports: feasibility studies, habitat management plans, ecological surveys, and hydromorphological studies.

Projects which have been awarded funding in Galway under these two schemes are:

Community Water Development Fund 

Catchment Support Fund

It was a good weekend for one lucky lotto player in Galway who won just under €18,000 on Friday night.

The Galway player was one of two players who matched five numbers in Friday night’s EuroMillions draw to win €17,902 each.

The winning Galway ticket was purchased online on Friday, April 17. An email notification has been sent to the online winner encouraging them to check their account.

The winning numbers for the Friday, April 24 draw were: 25, 26, 30, 40, 45 and the Lucky Stars were 01 and 05.

Both players are advised to contact the National Lottery Prize Claims team on 1800 666 222 or email claims@lottery.ie and arrangements will be made for them to collect their prize at Lottery Headquarters.

As there was no winner of the €17,000,000 jackpot on offer, Tuesday’s EuroMillions jackpot is now set to roll towards an estimated €25 million.

A man arrested in connection with the death of a woman in Galway City over the weekend has been charged.

The man in his 30s was arrested on Friday night after Gardaí responded to a serious attack on a 65 year old woman in Ballybrit.

The woman passed away as a result of her injuries in hospital in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The man arrested was charged yesterday and brought before a special sitting of Galway District Court.

A woman in her 60s has died after being attacked in Ballybrit on Friday night, and one man has been arrested in connection with this incident.

Gardaí were alerted to an serious assault at a home in Ballybrit, Galway City at approximately 11:45pm on Friday.

A woman, aged 65 years, was removed from the scene to University Hospital Galway in a serious condition and passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning.

A post-mortem examination has taken place the results of which are not being disclosed for operational reasons.

The scene remains preserved and is continuing to being examined by the Garda Technical Bureau.

A man in his 30s, has since been arrested and is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at a Garda station in the North Western Region.

The Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark has been awarded a UNESCO Global Geopark accolade, a first UNESCO Global Geopark in Connacht, and the fifth on the Island of Ireland.

Exclusively, the JCWL UNESCO Geopark includes the only Gaeltacht region in a UNESCO Geopark on the island of Ireland and globally.

This high-profile international badge of honour recognises the JCWL Geopark’s outstanding natural beauty, unique culture, rich heritage, Irish Language – Gaeltacht region, progressive and strong community spirit, along with its inspired people.

The JCWL UNESCO Global Geopark encapsulates 20 highly motivated and determined communities across north County Galway, south-west County Mayo inclusive of the Gaeltacht.

Each community is dedicated to maintaining their individual charm and ethos while working together to sustain, nurture and support unique cultural and heritage skill sets and traditions.

Embracing new opportunities also forms part of the agenda especially those which complement the sustained developmental efforts of people and their communities in order to achieve the coveted UNESCO status for the region.

Tomás Ó Síocháin, CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta, said “The ratification of Joyce Country & Western Lakes as a UNESCO Global Geopark is a landmark achievement that celebrates the extraordinary natural heritage and living Irish language culture of this remarkable region.”

“Údarás na Gaeltachta is proud to support this recognition, which will open new doors for sustainable tourism, community development, and economic opportunity for the Gaeltacht communities at its heart.”

Cllr David Collins, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, said, “UNESCO Global Geopark status shines a well-deserved spotlight not just on our unique landscape, but on the people who live and work here and have cared for it over generations.”

“While the economic benefits are clear, there’s also a strong conservation element to this award, supporting communities to protect our natural heritage, biodiversity and way of life, and ensuring this special part of Galway and Mayo is preserved and respected into the future.”

Niall Ó Donnchú, Director General with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, said the organisation, “warmly welcomes the announcement that the Joyce Country & Western Lakes Geopark will receive its UNESCO Global Geopark accolade.”

“This brings significant opportunity for community development, education and training; business enterprise and tourism ventures.”

“NPWS particularly looks forward to working with the Geopark and its communities on biodiversity initiatives which will enrich and showcase the enormous landscape diversity, unique geology, natural history and cultural heritage that the area offers.”

A Lotto player in Galway had a night to remember on Wednesday after winning the top prize of €250,000 in the Lotto Plus 2 draw.

The winning ticket was purchased on the day of the draw from Applegreen Galway, Tuam Road, Co. Galway. The winner is advised to sign the back of their ticket and keep it safe.

The winning numbers for the Wednesday 22nd April Lotto Plus 2 draw were: 05, 07, 09, 15, 18, 40 and the Bonus was 16.

And that wasn’t the only big win of the night! An online player in Co. Kilkenny won €39,952 after matching 5 numbers and the bonus in last night’s main Lotto draw.

The player purchased their ticket online on the day of the draw. An email notification has been sent to the online winner encouraging them to check their account.

The winning numbers for the Wednesday, April 22 Lotto draw were: 05, 07, 10, 11, 16, 46 and the Bonus was 37.

Darragh O’Dwyer, National Lottery spokesperson said, “It was an incredible night of wins for Lotto players right across Ireland with one player in Galway winning the Lotto Plus 2 top prize worth €250,000.”

“And the celebrations didn’t stop there, as an online player in Co. Kilkenny matched five numbers and the Bonus in the main Lotto draw to take home a fantastic €39,952. In total, over 76,000 players won prizes in the Lotto & Lotto Plus draws.”

“We’re urging all players to check their tickets and online accounts very carefully today. If you discover that you have the winning Lotto Plus 2 ticket or the Match 5 plus Bonus ticket, be sure to contact our Prize Claims team on 1800 666 222 or email claims@lottery.ie and arrangements will be made for them to visit Lottery Headquarters to collect their prize.”

Meanwhile, as there was no winner of last night’s €7,463,870 jackpot, Saturday’s Lotto Jackpot is now set to roll towards an estimated €8 million.

Players dreaming of a becoming Ireland’s next big Lotto winner can purchase tickets in-store, through the National Lottery app, or online at www.lottery.ie ahead of the deadline for sales at 7.45pm on Saturday evening.

University Hospital Galway is cancelling some elective procedures amid high overcrowding as surge areas have been activated today.

The Emergency Department at UHG is extremely busy today, with high numbers of people attending who need to be admitted to hospital for ongoing treatment.

Yesterday 319 people attended the Emergency Department. As of this morning, there were 24 patients on trolleys in the ED, 22 more patients on ward trolleys, and an additional 35 people on trolleys in surge areas.

The hospital is implementing all possible measures to improve patient flow and reduce delays in the Emergency Department and is asking the public to consider all available healthcare options before attending.

Everyone who presents will be treated, with priority given to those who are seriously ill or injured. Patients who do not require urgent care unfortunately may experience longer waiting times.

All available beds in the hospital are in use. 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.

The hospital has acknowledged that these delays are very difficult for patients and their families, and apologised for the inconvenience and distress these delays cause.

The Galway West by-election to replace Catherine Connolly will take place in one month on Friday, May 22 it has been confirmed.

The government confirmed exact polling dates for the Galway West and Dublin Central by-elections on Thursday.

Nominations have been pouring in for several weeks for the election to replace former independent TD Catherine Connolly.

Connolly had been an independent TD for Galway West since 2016 when she was elected to the Presidency last October.

To stand for election to Dáil Éireann, a person must be a citizen of Ireland and at least 21 years of age by polling day.

The latest time for receiving nominations is 12 noon on Friday, May 1. Candidates may withdraw their nominations up to 12 noon on Saturday, May 2.

Galway West is a five seat constituency with an electorate of over 103,000.

In order to vote in this election you must submit your registration no later than Tuesday, May 5.

Postal voting or special voting applications from people in qualifying categories must be made no later than Saturday, April 25.

A national campaign to drive public awareness of heart failure and promote early detection, is coming to Galway later this month.

Knocknacarra Shopping Centre will host a pop-up ‘Heart Failure Awareness Roadshow’ on April 30 from 10.30am-2.30pm as part of a blitz by three heart organisations to raise understanding of the serious condition.

It will also demonstrate how patients can be supported to get their lives back on track post-diagnosis.

Heart failure is a serious health condition which affects one in five adults and is the leading cause of hospitalisation in over-65s.

Members of the public visiting the Galway event will be offered free blood pressure and heart health checks in the Croí mobile health unit, where specialist heart failure nurses will be on hand to offer advice on recognising the signs and symptoms, information on living with heart failure and signposting the public to local support services.

European Heart Failure Awareness Week begins on April 27, running until May 3, and focuses on the theme ‘Awareness today, Protection tomorrow’.

As part of the campaign, a two-week long countrywide roadshow of events across nine locations, is being co-ordinated by the Irish Heart Foundation, Ireland’s national charity for stroke and heart disease prevention, Croí heart and stroke charity, and the Irish Association of Heart Failure Nurses.

Knowledge and symptom recognition of heart failure remains low among the general public.

“Heart failure does not mean the heart has stopped, it means it is not pumping blood as effectively as it should,” said Dr Angie Brown, Medical Director at the Irish Heart Foundation.

“Neither does it mean the end of life: with early diagnosis, treatment, and support, people can live well. Awareness of heart failure symptoms and how the condition can be managed is low. This is why raising awareness at a community level is critical.”

“By meeting people on streets, in shopping centres and local hubs, we can make heart health information more accessible and impactful.”

Heart failure affects an estimated 137,000 people in Ireland and 10,000 new cases are diagnosed every year, but experts say it remains overlooked and often misunderstood.

The campaign by the three organisations aims to change that by educating the public on crucial warning signs including breathlessness, fatigue, swollen ankles or legs and rapid weight gain —while encouraging people to better protect their heart health.

“Heart failure can be a life-altering condition, but with early diagnosis and the right support, people can live well,” said Dr Lisa Hynes, Head of Health Programmes at Croí.

“Through this campaign and our community roadshow, we want to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources they need to recognise symptoms early and seek help.”

The campaign also highlights the essential role of specialist heart failure nurses in improving patient outcomes and providing ongoing care and support.

“Heart failure nurses are at the frontline of patient care,” said Emer Burke, Heart Failure Nurse Specialist and President of the Irish Association of Heart Failure Nurses.

“This initiative not only raises awareness but also showcases the importance of expert-led, patient-centred care.”

Heart Failure Awareness Week in Ireland runs from April 27 to May 3 and the Heart Failure Awareness Week roadshows will run from April 27 to May 8, visiting nine locations around Ireland. For further information on dates, times and locations, see: www.croi.ie and www.irishheart.ie

Galway based consultancy company Xenergie was named one of the top winners at the national Business & Finance ESG Awards this month.

Xenergie won the Consultancy award at the 2026 awards, which took place at the Mansion House, Dublin recently.

The award acknowledges Xenergie’s pioneering work in bridging the gap between social recovery and corporate enterprise, reframing recovery as a source of high-potential leadership talent.

The company said in a statement that they were proud to receive this award, which showed the value of what they want to achieve.

“This award means a great deal to us because it reflects something we have long believed: meaningful progress happens when ideas become action.”

“At Xenergie, we help organisations live transformation from the inside out. Through a systemic approach grounded in coaching, leadership and behaviour change, we support leaders and teams to move beyond strategy into everyday practice, creating change where it matters most.”

“Our work is about helping organisations become more sustainable, inclusive, resilient and ready for the future.”

“That means developing leaders who can think systemically, work across boundaries, strengthen stakeholder focus and lead with confidence through complexity.”

The Business & Finance ESG Awards, held in association with Grant Thornton, bring together leading organisations and policymakers to celebrate excellence in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance across Ireland.

Now in its fourth year, the awards continue to recognise the organisations and individuals driving meaningful progress in sustainability, social impact and responsible governance.

This year’s winners reflect the growing maturity of ESG across Irish business, with organisations demonstrating measurable impact, innovation and long-term commitment.

Commenting on the awards, Janice Daly, Partner and Sustainability lead from Grant Thornton said, “Supporting the Business & Finance ESG Awards reflects our belief that embedding sustainability into business strategy plays an important role in advancing responsible business leadership.”

“This year’s winners have demonstrated how a considered and well designed approach to sustainability can deliver meaningful impact over the long term.”

“In a period marked by ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainty, their leadership shows the value of maintaining a clear, consistent focus on responsible business practices.”

The ESG Awards Judging Panel added, “This year’s entries were of an exceptionally high standard, reflecting a significant evolution in how organisations are approaching ESG.”

“The winners stood out not only for their ambition but for their ability to deliver tangible, measurable outcomes. From large enterprises to SMEs, the breadth of innovation and commitment was impressive, making the judging process both challenging and inspiring.”

Researchers have found evidence that a therapeutic strategy which makes the brain work more efficiently to learn and recall memories may in fact help to target compromised brain activity in Alzheimer’s disease.

The study led by University of Galway focused on nerve cells which routinely limit or restrict activity and messages being sent by the brain, rather than the more conventional approach of therapy for nerve cells which stimulate activity.

Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic progressive neurodegenerative disorder with clinical symptoms including diminished memory and cognitive function.

It is the most prevalent cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of dementia cases. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are among the top 10 causes of death globally.

Professor Andrea Kwakowsky, lead researcher for the study at the University of Galway said, “Given the ever-increasing burden of Alzheimer’s disease, the urgent need for the identification of novel targets for the development of disease-modifying therapy is clear.”

The research team noted how the accumulation of Amyloid beta – protein fragment aggregates known as plaque – are a primary hallmark and suspected cause of Alzheimer’s disease. The Amyloid beta disrupts normal brain signalling and causes burn out and ultimately the death of nerve cells as it leads to the firing or over-activation of the nerve cells in the brain.

This symptom of the disease is then compounded by activity in the inhibitory nerve cells, which routinely limit or restrict activity and messages, as they overcompensate for the stimulatory impact in the brain that the disease is having.

The scientists highlighted that symptomatic relief from Alzheimer’s provided by these therapies which target the stimulatory nerve cells is only marginal, and the progression or underlying causes of the disease are not addressed.

Professor Andrea Kwakowsky said,” “Our research is looking at the possibility of a therapy which helps to restore a balance in the brain after nerve cells have reacted to Alzheimer’s.

“We know, for sure, that the amino acid, GABA, is involved in many important physiological functions of the brain, including being the primary inhibiting factor for nerve cells.”

“However, in Alzheimer’s disease, this control that it helps to exert in the brain is compromised, contributing to cognitive decline and memory impairment.

“Science and medicine has shown that an increase in extracellular GABA can be triggered by the protein Amyloid beta, leading to over-activation of a specific population of GABA receptors in Alzheimer’s disease.

“Our research is significant in that it demonstrates that if we block this GABA receptor activity in nerve cells we can reverse Alzheimer-like effects caused by Amyloid beta and improve cognitive performance.”

The research was funded by the University of Galway Hardiman Research Scholarship, Alzheimer’s New Zealand, Freemasons New Zealand, Alzheimer’s New Zealand Charitable Trust, Aotearoa Foundation, Brain Research New Zealand, Health Research Council of New Zealand, Centre for Brain Research, the University of Auckland and the University of Otago.

The team’s research is expanding on a hypothesis that has emerged in recent years, which shifts the focus of therapeutic treatment to the inhibitory side of signalling imbalance in nerve cells, suggesting that targeting the brain’s vulnerability to overstimulation-induced damage can ultimately reduce the impact and death of nerve cells.

Africa Day 2026 will be marked in County Galway with a community celebration in Tuam next month.

The annual event will take place at The Palace Grounds on Saturday, 9 May, from 2pm to 5pm, with organisers promising a family-friendly programme of music, food and cultural activities.

Africa Day is held annually to mark the founding of the African Union in 1963 and celebrates the diversity, achievements and cultural contributions of the continent’s 54 nations. Events are scheduled to take place in every county across Ireland.

The Tuam event is being organised by representatives of Galway’s African community in partnership with Galway County Council’s Integration Team and the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Organisers say the free event will include live music, cultural performances, African cuisine, children’s entertainment and community stalls, with a focus on promoting intercultural exchange.

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, David Collins, said the event reflects the strong sense of inclusion across the county.

“I am proud to support initiatives that bring our communities together, celebrate our diversity, and strengthen the social and cultural fabric of our county,” he added.

“I encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to participate in what promises to be an uplifting and inspiring celebration.”

Integration Support Coordinator Jennie Swannock said Africa Day recognises the contributions of people of African descent in Galway and promotes understanding across communities.

She continued, “Africa Day celebrates African heritage, and fosters inclusivity, friendship and cultural appreciation among people of all backgrounds. This celebration also reflects our ongoing commitment to inclusion, integration, and community cohesion across County Galway.”

Nearly 12,000 homes, farms, and businesses in Galway have now connected to NBI fibre broadband out of 33,000 for whom it is available.

There are now 33,797 premises that can now pre-order or order high-speed, reliable broadband across Galway, with 11,953 connections made to date.

Works have been completed in most rural areas across the county, including those near Ballinasloe, Loughrea, Athenry and Maam.

National Broadband Ireland is encouraging all Galway residents to visit nbi.ie and check their Eircode to see if they’re ready to connect and find out more about placing an order.

NBI’s fibre rollout under the NBP is delivering broadband infrastructure to what is known as the State’s Intervention Area, which includes the most remote and rural parts of Ireland where commercial operators have no plans to deliver high-speed broadband.

The Intervention Area currently includes 41,000 premises in Galway, which will see NBI deliver minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second to homes, businesses, farms, and schools across the county.

As the biggest investment in rural Ireland since rural electrification, Co Galway will receive €153m of Government investment under the National Broadband Plan.

TJ Malone, Chief Executive Officer, National Broadband Ireland, said: “We are delighted to announce that almost 12,000 Galway homes, businesses and farms are now connected to the NBI network.”

“Those connected are experiencing the life-changing benefits of high-speed fibre broadband with minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second.”

“With the national switch-off of the copper network approaching, NBI’s fibre network will ensure communities across Ireland are prepared for the future by supporting remote working, education, healthcare access, and local enterprise while providing the reliability needed for everyday living.”

“As we enter the final year of the National Broadband Plan rollout, we’re encouraging everyone in Galway to check their Eircode on nbi.ie and order now to secure high-speed fibre broadband for their home or business.”

National Rollout Progress

NBI has now passed over 465,000 homes, farms and businesses in rural Ireland to high-speed broadband with almost 172,000 now connected.

The average take-up rate of 37% is well ahead of projections and international comparisons and surpasses 60% in areas of the country where the network has been live the longest.

With the main rollout due to be concluded by the end of this year, the remaining homes and businesses yet to be passed will be able to place an order for high-speed broadband in the coming months.

As fibre networks expand across Ireland, offering superior speed, capacity, and reliability; older copper telephone and broadband infrastructure will start to be decommissioned.

The European Commission has proposed 2035 as the latest date for EU Member States to mandate the decommissioning of the legacy copper networks.

Galway householders are being urged to bring their batteries, electrical, and electronic waste to a set of free collection days to help the county meet national e-waste recycling targets for 2026.

The events, hosted by WEEE Ireland and proudly supported by Galway County Council, kick off on Saturday, April 25 from 10am-4pm at the The City Bin Co. Recycling Centre, Deerpark, Oranmore.

On Saturday, May 2, a collection will take place from 10am-4pm at the Oughterard GAA Club, Pier Road, Oughterard.

More e-waste collections will be ongoing throughout May at locations across the county.

Anything with a plug, battery or cable can be recycled for free on the day, including old washing machines, TVs, toasters and kettles, electronic tools and toys, cables, IT equipment, mobile phones, remote controls, batteries, including farm fence batteries, and even watches.

“In Galway, and across Ireland, we are buying more electrical goods than ever – with people purchasing an average 23kg per head in 2024 compared to 16kgs just seven years ago,” said WEEE Ireland CEO Leo Donovan.

“Shopping stats show a surge in spend on new electrical devices like mobile phones, computers, small kitchen appliances and white goods. With old items still lying around many households we want to offer the opportunity to recycle these for free.”

“People in Galway have contributed greatly to e-waste recycling every year, with 2,863 tonnes of electrical waste collected in the county in 2024, and we want to encourage that trend.”

10.3kg of e-waste was recycled per person in Galway in 2024 – exceeding the WEEE Ireland collection area average of 9.5kg per person that same year.

WEEE Ireland warns that the nation needs to meet new forthcoming EU targets to recycle at least 25% of our annual consumption of critical raw materials from e-waste.

“An average of 96% of all e-waste that we collect is recovered for use again in manufacturing through both indigenous operators and specialist processors in Europe,” said Mr. Donovan.

“Most end-of-life products contain metals and minerals in higher concentrations than primary resources. These stocks of resources are the urban mines of the future, so our recycling efforts can have a significant impact on the environment.”

In 2024, the equivalent of 206,521 tonnes of CO2 emissions were avoided by recycling e-waste through the WEEE Ireland Scheme as opposed to landfilling. That is the equivalent of the annual carbon consumption of 4,130 hectares of trees.

WEEE Ireland accounts for over two thirds of all national waste electrical and electronics collection activity on behalf of 1,400 producer members.

These free events are proudly supported by Galway County Council.

“Recycling e-waste is incredibly beneficial for both the environment and the economy,” said Mr. Donovan. “Together, we are diverting waste from landfill, recovering raw materials for reuse and ensuring hazardous materials are safely and responsibly disposed of.”

“We look forward to working with Galway householders to hopefully recycle a record-breaking amount of electronic waste in 2026.”

Sixteen patients attending the Diabetes Outpatient Clinic at University Hospital Galway were honoured at a special awards ceremony recently held in Croí.

At the event, Diabetes Ireland recognised the individuals for living with type 1 diabetes, presenting 50- and 65-year achievement medals in acknowledgement of their courage, perseverance, and lifelong commitment to managing the condition.

The recipients, 10 women and 6 men, from Galway, Mayo, Clare and Tipperary, received either a 50-year or 65-year medal. (One recipient of a 65-year medal and 15 recipients of a 50-year medal).

Currently, approximately 308,000 people are living with diabetes in Ireland.

Tomás Griffin, Consultant Physician/Diabetologist at University Hospital Galway, said, “We are deeply honoured to celebrate this extraordinary group of people who have lived with diabetes for 50 years or more.”

“Their resilience and determination inspire us all, demonstrating that it is not only possible, but empowering, to live active, healthy, and fulfilling lives with diabetes.”

“Reaching this milestone is never solely an individual achievement. It also reflects the steadfast support, care, and encouragement of families, friends, and communities.

“Over the decades, diabetes care has advanced dramatically, from early insulin regimens and manual glucose testing to modern technologies such as continuous glucose monitoring, insulin pumps, and hybrid closed-loop systems. These innovations have transformed daily management and improved both outcomes and quality of life in profound and lasting ways.”

The ceremony highlights both the personal achievements of the recipients and the remarkable advancements in diabetes care over the past five decades, celebrating the resilience of those living with the condition and the support of their communities.

Kieran O’Leary, CEO, Diabetes Ireland said, “Our ‘Living Well With Diabetes’ ceremony celebrates life with diabetes and it is an honour and a privilege to present medals to people with diabetes who have lived over 50 years managing their condition on a daily basis and adapting to the many changes in treatment over the years. This group of recipients are among a special group of 400 people who have received a medal.”