Galway is under two status yellow weather warnings today, with heavy rain and wind expected until Thursday evening.

Heavy downpours are expected today, with possible spot flooding in areas, and difficult travelling conditions with poor visibility.

The rain warning was issued for Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Clare, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Dublin, Kildare, Laois, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wicklow, and all of Connacht.

This weather warning came into effect at 6am this morning and will remain in place until 3pm.

This is on top of a wind warning for the entire country issued yesterday, which remains in effect until 6pm this evening.

Strong and gusty southwesterly winds may cause additional difficulty for motorists today, with a risk of fallen trees and branches, and debris or loose objects getting displaced.

Galway City Council has confirmed plans for the summer pedestrianisation of a number of westend streets to encourage outdoor dining.

William Street West, Dominick Street Upper, and Raven’s Terrace will all be closed during the evening and night from May to September.

These three streets will be pedestrianised from 5pm – 2am Monday – Friday, and 3pm – 2am Saturday & Sunday.

This will begin on Friday, May 1, 2026 and continue until Wednesday, September 30, to take advantage of the season of better weather.

This closure is to allow for the provision of space for outdoor dining, festivals, and events.

Localised access and access for pedestrians and cyclists will be maintained at all times.

Galway City Council first began pedestrianising some city centre streets to allow outdoor dining during the Covid pandemic.

Since then, it has been repeated every summer to encourage footfall and support bars and restaurants in the city centre.

Former Deputy General of the World Health Organisation, Dr Michael Ryan, has warned against growing public narratives that blame vulnerable people for wider social problems, saying Ireland must continue to respond with compassion, dignity and community action.

Speaking in Galway at an event marking 60 years of COPE Galway, Dr Ryan said societies risk losing sight of their values when those on the margins are portrayed as the cause of social challenges.

“We are in a cruel phase of public discourse where people on the margins of society are too easily blamed for wider problems,” he said. “Ireland must not fall into that trap.”

Dr Ryan delivered the keynote address at the anniversary event at the Mick Lally Theatre in Galway. The event reflected on six decades of community action supporting people experiencing homelessness, domestic abuse and social isolation across Galway.

The global health leader said organisations rooted in communities often play a critical role in responding to hardship.

“Behind every statistic is a person – someone who found warmth on a cold night, someone who discovered safety after fear, or an older neighbour who realised they were not forgotten,” he said.

“And behind each of those moments is this organisation, the community that supports it and the agencies who fund it.”

Drawing on his experience responding to epidemics, disasters and humanitarian crises worldwide, Dr Ryan said community-based organisations are often the most effective responders.

“The organisations rooted in communities are often the most resilient, adaptable and innovative,” he said. “They recognise that people and communities experiencing trauma need safety, solidarity and dignity – not pity.”

However, he warned that community organisations must be properly supported and resourced. “Delivering services through community organisations can be hugely impactful,” he said.

“But it should never be seen as the cheaper option. Governments remain accountable for ensuring the resources are there to meet growing needs.”

The event also marked the launch of 60 Years in Galway, a new publication charting COPE Galway’s development from a volunteer-led Meals on Wheels initiative in 1965 to a modern social service organisation supporting more than 3,000 people each year.

Opening the event, COPE Galway CEO Michael Smyth reflected on the organisation’s roots in community action.

“COPE Galway was born from this community and shaped by it. For sixty years, people across Galway have stepped forward to ensure that dignity, safety and care are not abstract ideals but realities in people’s lives.”

Assistant CEO Martin O’Connor outlined the organisation’s history and the changing social context in which it has worked.

“From modest beginnings to a modern organisation driven by skilled staff, dedicated volunteers and a community that refuses to look away, COPE Galway has grown with the times,” he said.

Guests also heard from a panel of service leaders who spoke about the realities facing people today and the innovative programmes being developed to support children experiencing homelessness, promote healthy relationships among young people and help older people remain connected in their communities.

Reflecting on the organisation’s 60-year journey, Dr Ryan said the work of community organisations remains vital.

“For sixty years COPE Galway has shown what can happen when people come together with purpose and kindness,” he said. “The work is not finished, but the past six decades show that real change is possible.”

Householders, schools, businesses and community groups across County Galway are being encouraged to register for April’s National Spring Clean.

Galway County Council and An Taisce are aiming to make the 27th annual campaign the most successful to date.

An estimated 2,700 tonnes of litter was collected from roadsides, parks and coastlines nationwide in 2025, with more than 170 groups and volunteers in County Galway taking part.

Free clean‑up kits are available to everyone who registers.

Cllr David Collins, Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway, said, “National Spring Clean comes at the perfect time of year as the days begin to stretch and more people are out and about.”

“It gives everyone a simple way to contribute to a litter pick in their own community and to take pride in the place they live. Galway is a beautiful county, and we all have a role in respecting it by keeping it litter-free for residents and visitors.”

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said, “We are encouraging people who have never taken part in National Spring Clean to register this year.”

“It can be as simple as two neighbours coming together to pick up litter in their own area or a larger group of volunteers working across their community.”

!Every extra pair of hands goes a long way in tackling the blight of litter in our communities, along our roads and in our public spaces.”

“Clean-up kits are available for all registered groups in Galway, and every effort helps to keep the county clean.”

Eileen Ruane, Director of Services for the Environment, said, “National Spring Clean is a key part of our Anti‑Litter Programme and Litter Management Plan, and it is a great opportunity for people across Galway to join the 4,250 groups throughout Ireland who organise local clean-up initiatives.”

“The campaign supports community clean-ups and raises awareness about the impact of litter and the benefits of cleaner and healthier places to live. We encourage everyone to get involved and help keep Galway litter-free.”

National Spring Clean is operated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce in partnership with Local Authorities and supported by the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment and Mars Wrigley.

Registrations are being accepted on www.nationalspringclean.org and further information is available from the Environment Section of Galway County Council on 091-509510 / environment@galwaycoco.ie.

Met Éireann has issued a weather warning for Tuesday night as Galway will be hit by strong winds this evening.

A status yellow wind warning has been issued for Galway, Mayo, and Donegal this evening. It will be in place from 6pm Tuesday until 5am Wednesday.

This evening and overnight, the county will be hit with strong and gusty south-westerly winds, especially in coastal areas.

People are advised to be wary of difficult travelling conditions later today, with the possibility of debris and fallen branches.

Other than this, the weather will be dry for most early on tonight as the rain clears eastwards. Clear spells and scattered showers will follow from the west.

Lowest temperatures of 7 to 9 degrees in Galway, with strong and gusty southwesterly winds, especially in coastal areas.

Those winds will make the weather feel far colder tonight, with Met Éireann stating that it will feel closer to 0 degrees.

University of Galway has unveiled a new 5km River Route to enhance physical and mental wellbeing for students, staff and the wider community.

The initiative was launched by Mayor of the City of Galway, Councillor Mike Cubbard, and University of Galway President, Professor David Burn, as part of the University’s ongoing investment in outdoor facilities, with funding support from Galway City Council’s Active Cities and Healthy Galway programmes

The newly marked River Route begins on campus at the Jes Rowing Club and runs along the banks of the River Corrib, finishing at the rugby pitch within the University’s Dangan Sports Campus.

The scenic riverside route makes use of the tow path and features clearly marked kilometre points and navigation maps to support walkers, joggers and runners of all abilities.

The River Route formalises and enhances a pathway already popular with local running and community groups and is designed to encourage participation by people at every level, from casual walkers to more competitive athletes and those in training.

Mayor of the City of Galway Mike Cubbard said, ”Galway City Council is delighted to support the development of this fantastic River Route, through our Active Cities and Healthy Galway programmes.”

“These programmes envision a Galway City where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can enjoy physical and mental health and wellbeing to their full potential.”

“The launch of the River Route is an excellent example of a free year-round exercise facility in the heart of Galway City. Congratulations to University of Galway on the launch of what will no doubt be a very well-used facility for the community.”

The project received funding support from Active Cities Galway through Sport Ireland’s Dormant Account Fund and Healthy Galway City through the Healthy Ireland Fund, supported by the Department of Health.

The new River Route builds on the University’s outdoor wellbeing facilities and infrastructure, which has expanded in recent years and supports more than 40 sports clubs, student groups, staff initiatives and community organisations.

Professor David Burn, University of Galway President, said, “With the launch of this new River Route, we are strengthening our commitment to supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of our students, staff and the wider community.”

“The River Corrib is a defining feature of our campus, and very few universities can offer a 5km riverside experience like this.”

“When you are on the route, surrounded by water and trees, it feels like being in the countryside, even though you are just minutes from the heart of Galway city. It’s a rare and unique part of campus life that we’re excited to share with everyone.”

One person has died, and three others have been injured, one of them critically, following a car crash in the early hours of Monday morning.

The single vehicle crash occurred on the N15 at Grellagh, Castlegal, Co Sligo, at approximately 3:30am this morning.

A woman in her 50s who was a passenger in the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her body has been removed to the mortuary at Sligo University Hospital (SUH), and a post-mortem examination will take place in due course. The Coroner has been notified

Another passenger, a man in his 50s, was brought to SUH, where his condition is described as critical.

The driver of the vehicle, a man in his 20s, and the third passenger in the car, a teenager, are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries at SUH.

The road had been closed for technical examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators and has since reopened.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the collision to come forward.

Road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling on the N15 at Castlegal – between Cliffoney and Tullaghan – between 3:10am and 3:40am on Monday 9th March 2026 are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sligo Garda Station on 071 915 7000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Former President Michael D. Higgins will be the guest of honour at the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Galway City next week.

A proud Galwegian and long‑time advocate for arts, culture, community, and public service, his presence will bring special significance to this year’s celebration.

The 2026 parade, themed “Legends and Rising Stars,” will highlight the stories, people, and traditions that shape Galway. President Higgins’ participation is warmly welcomed as a fitting tribute to his lifelong commitment to culture, equality, and community life in Ireland.

Speaking at the announcement, former President Higgins stated, “To be asked to be principle guests at Galway’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is deeply appreciated by myself and Sabina, and we’d like to express our deep gratitude for the warmth of the reception home to Galway that we have received from so many individuals and groups.”

Mayor of Galway City Cllr. Mike Cubbard added, “As Mayor of Galway City, I am delighted that former President Michael D. Higgins will join us as Guest of Honour for this year’s parade.”

“His long‑standing connection to Galway and his commitment to arts, culture and community life makes his presence especially meaningful.”

“As he has returned to Galway City this year, after 14 memorable years in the Áras, we are honoured that he has accepted our invitation to join us in the parade this year.”

“This year’s parade showcases the creativity and spirit of the people of Galway, and I want to thank all of the groups and individuals who contribute to making it such a memorable occasion each year.”

This year’s programme will once again feature a vibrant and diverse line‑up of community groups, artists, performers, youth organisations, and cultural participants from across the city.

A particular highlight for 2026 is Céiliúradh, a new Community Pageant supported by Galway City Council and Creative Ireland, and developed in collaboration with artist and theatre maker Hugh Brown.

Céiliúradh will celebrate the stories, identities, and cultures that make Galway the dynamic place it is today.

Louise Osborne, Festival and Events Officer, Galway City Council, added, “We are thrilled to welcome former President Michael D. Higgins as our Guest of Honour for the 2026 St. Patrick’s Day Parade.”

“This year’s theme, ‘Legends & Rising Stars,’ celebrates the remarkable people and stories that shape Galway, and his attendance brings an extra sense of pride to the occasion. We hope that this year’s parade will be one to remember”.

Galway City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade continues to be one of the region’s largest annual cultural events, drawing thousands of spectators and celebrating the spirit, diversity, and traditions of the city.

With President Higgins joining as the Guest of Honour, the 2026 parade promises to be an especially memorable occasion.

Electric car sales in Galway are up nearly 45% so far this year compared with the same period in 2025 according to the Society of the Irish Motor Industry.

In January and February of 2026, there were 358 new electric cars registered in Galway, up from 248 in the same two months of last year.

Galway has the sixth highest number of electric car sales in Ireland, exceeded by Dublin (3,882), Cork (1,177), Kildare (631), Meath (470), and Wexford (389).

In February 2,871 new electric cars (battery electric cars) were registered, which was 14.4% higher than the 2,510 registrations in February 2025.

So far this year, 10,172 new electric cars have been registered, representing a 36.9% increase compared to the same period in 2025, when 7,433 electric cars were registered.

In the new car market share by engine type, Hybrid (Petrol Electric) leads at 27.26% as the most popular engine type, followed by Petrol 21.84%, Electric 20.53%, Plug-In Hybrid 14.51%, and Diesel 13.27%.

Brian Cooke, Director General of Simi, commented, “Private consumers account for 75% of BEV sales and remain the main driver of sales, a trend seen across all counties.”

“New Hybrid electric (HEV) and Plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) registrations have also seen continued growth for February.”

“Battery technology cars (BEV, PHEV, HEV) combined market share now accounts for over 62% of registrations.”

The most popular electric cars in the country are the Volkswagen ID.4, Hyundai Inster, Kia EV3, Hyundai Kona, and Toyota BZ4X,

Tesla seems to have fallen in popularity recently, with neither the Model 3 or Model Y among the 5 best selling EVs in the country so far this year.

Nearly half of workers in Galway who commute are too exhausted to cook when they get home in the evening.

Galway workers are spending more days in the office, with the majority commuting three days a week and the average commute time exceeding one hour a day, according to a recent survey by HelloFresh.

Commuters find that the biggest barrier to preparing dinner after a day in the office is feeling too tired or low on energy (45%).

Another 32% say preparation time is an issue, along with commute time being longer than planned (31%).

Avoiding the grocery shop also plays a significant role, with 27% of workers feeling the effect.

We are finding less time to prepare balanced meals, with 26% saying they are less likely to cook a nutritious meal after their commute, while the average time to sit down for dinner is 6pm.

Speaking on the challenge faced by Irish commuters, Annita Forte, Brand & Marketing Communication Manager at HelloFresh, said that this is becoming a real problem for home cooking.

“As people are back in the office and commuting more than they have in recent years, it’s becoming more difficult to find the time to make dinner from scratch in the evenings, especially if they have other people to cook for in the house.”

“We want to take the pressure off people by making it an easier task to cook balanced meals in the evening.”

World Kidney Day, which takes place on 12 March, marks a worldwide initiative aimed at raising awareness of kidney disease and the importance of prevention and early detection.

This year’s theme, “Kidney Health for All: Caring for People, Protecting the Planet,” highlights the connection between environmental sustainability (air pollution, heat stress) and kidney disease, promoting eco-friendly, equitable, and accessible kidney care.

Professor Paul O’Hara, Consultant General Physician and Nephrologist at Portiuncula University Hospital, said the theme serves as an important reminder that protecting kidney health goes hand in hand with protecting our environment.

“Raising awareness about kidney disease is vital. Early diagnosis, preventative measures and equitable access to care can significantly improve outcomes for patients.”

“Detecting kidney disease early not only preserves kidney function but also reduces the need for resource-intensive treatments and improves long-term outcomes.”

“Environmental changes are now adding to this burden. Climate-related risks, air pollution, heat stress, dehydration, and extreme weather events compound the risks of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and accelerate its progression.”

Dr O’Hara emphasised that being educated on risk factors is an important part of managing any chronic illness, and that kidney disease is no different.

“The risk factors associated with CKD include diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, long-term use of over-the-counter medications, heart disease and a family history of kidney disease.”

“If you are over 50 or fall into a higher-risk category, it is important to speak with your GP and get screened for CKD. Early detection can significantly slow progression and improve long-term outcomes,” added Professor O’Hara.

To mark World Kidney Day, the hospital’s kidney clinic will host an information awareness stand in the main foyer of the hospital on Thursday, 12 March from 9am to 12 noon.

Clinical staff will be available to answer questions and raise awareness of high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes, the leading causes of kidney disease in Ireland.

The kidney clinic, under the leadership of Professor O’Hara, continues to deliver expert, patient-centred care to individuals across East Galway and Roscommon.

The service provides specialist assessment and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, accepting referrals from both hospital teams and GPs to ensure patients have timely access to expert treatment and support.

In a continued commitment to enhancing patient care, the service has expanded to include a number of additional specialist clinics.

These include a newly established Clinical Nurse Specialist-led kidney clinic and an Advanced Nurse Practitioner-led Rapid Review Clinic, both designed to improve access and streamline care for patients requiring urgent assessment.

A dedicated Consultant-Led Clinic has also been developed to support patients preparing for dialysis. In addition, a Conservative Care Clinic provides comprehensive, supportive management for patients who are not suitable for, or who choose not to pursue, dialysis.

Patients requiring haemodialysis, as well as those undergoing kidney transplantation, receive their care at Merlin Park University Hospital, ensuring access to specialised renal services within the region.

Between 2024 and 2025, the clinic recorded a 26% increase in new referrals and reviewed almost 850 patients. During the same period, there was a 38% rise in patients with kidney disease receiving infusion-based therapies, reflecting growing demand and expanded treatment capacity.

The kidney day ward relocated to the new 50-bed ward block in February 2025, creating additional capacity in a modern clinical environment and significantly enhancing the standard of care provided to patients.

Since the move, the ward has provided care to more than 500 patients, reflecting its significant impact in meeting growing demand for kidney services.

Attendances increased by 42%, with more than 1500 patient interactions recorded, demonstrating the vital role the service now plays within the wider healthcare system.

The kidney day ward offers medical and nursing assessments, investigations and patient education on an ambulatory and outpatient basis.

It also offers a dedicated ambulatory care pathway from the Emergency Department, enabling rapid assessment and treatment for patients with kidney-related conditions who do not require hospital admission.

A programme of upgrades to the water infrastructure on the west side of Galway City is continuing, with the next phase of work beginning on Monday.

Uisce Éireann is preparing to replace approximately 300 metres of ageing cast iron mains along St Mary’s Avenue (L-5013-0) with new, modern pipes.

This work will commence on Monday, March 9, after the current work on Dominick Street is completed by the end of this week.

Enda Mac Namara, Uisce Éireann Programme Manager, highlighted the benefits that the new mains will provide.

“This mains upgrade will improve water quality and provide a more reliable supply for residents of St Mary’s Avenue and surrounding areas.”

“The project will also help us work toward our aim of driving down leakage on the network and protecting our water supplies,” said Enda.

“With works on Dominick Street Upper now drawing to a close, we wish to thank residents and businesses in the area for their cooperation and understanding.”

“We acknowledge that road closures can be disruptive, and we thank impacted road users for their support while these essential infrastructure upgrades were safely delivered.”

In order to ensure the safety of crews, road users and the general public, traffic management in the form of a road closure will be required at St Mary’s Avenue.

Diversions will be in place during this period. Local and emergency services access will be accommodated throughout the project and the road will reopen for the Easter weekend.

Galway City Council is expected to begin moving into its new headquarters late this year, with the Crown Square premises to be fully occupied by early 2027.

The council has appointed a contractor to carry out the fit-out of its new administrative headquarters at Crown Square on Monivea Road, with work due to begin in the coming weeks.

The local authority has drawn down a €15 million loan to fund the core fit-out programme, which is scheduled to run for 43 weeks.

Chief Executive Leonard Cleary said the start of the fit-out marks a significant step in the project.

He added, “Appointing the contractor following a full procurement process allows us to move into the final phase of delivering a modern workspace for the organisation.”

“By bringing our staff to one central location, Crown Square will strengthen collaboration and support better services for the people of Galway City.”

“I want to acknowledge the work of staff across the organisation and the Heads of Function Team, whose ongoing commitment has driven the project to this stage,” said Mr. Cleary.

“We look forward to seeing the building take shape over the coming months as we prepare for occupation in late 2026.”

The council has said that moving to the new headquarters in Crown Square will consolidate four existing office sites into one location, and avoid the estimated €69 million cost of refurbishing and extending the current City Hall.

Galway City Council will retain its original four-acre headquarters site at College Road. The land, close to the city centre, is to be included in a master plan for future mixed-use development, with potential to generate funding to support council services.