Applications open for Galway City Local Community Festivals Grant Scheme

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May 30, 2023

Oscar nominated Director triumphs at Irish Animation Awards in Galway — Oscar-nominated director Nora Twomey from Cartoon Saloon won Best Irish Feature for My Father’s Dragon, along with 4 other awards at the 2023 Irish Animation awards at the Galway Bay Hotel, Salthill, Galway. Photo: Andrew Downes, xposure

The Irish Animation Awards took place in Galway over the weekend, returning in-person for the first time in four years.

The 2023 Animation Awards, the first live event since 2019, were held at the Galway Bay Hotel on Saturday, hosted by Irish TV and radio star, Baz Ashmawy.

Baz Ashmawy who presented the 2023 Irish Animation awards at the Galway Bay Hotel, Salthill. Photo: Andrew Downes, xposure

Cartoon Saloon’s animated fantasy film My Father’s Dragon came out on top on the night, taking home a total of five awards.

Directed by the Oscar nominated Nora Twomey, My Father’s Dragon claimed the coveted Best Irish Feature.

Igloo Animation’s children’s series produced for RTÉjr, Tales from Dún Draíochta came away with two wins, including Best Animated Kids Series. Sixteen South’s preschool series Odo also bagged two awards on the night.

The ceremony this year featured the inaugural Outstanding Contribution to the Industry Award, which was presented to Teresa Mc Grane, formerly of Screen Ireland, who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to support and nurture the growth of the Irish Animation industry.

Commenting on the awards ceremony, Animation Ireland’s Chief Executive, Ronan McCabe said; “It has been yet another superb and record-breaking year for Irish animation with 53 productions nominated.”

“The sector is continuing to power ahead both in terms of the quality of the work being produced, which you can certainly see from the awards ceremony and the number of productions being delivered.”

“The Irish Animation Awards is a wonderful occasion to celebrate the hard work, dedication, talent and outstanding creativity we have here in Ireland.’’

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Ronan went on to say, “Animation Ireland puts a huge emphasis on education and training and helping the next generation of animators to thrive, so it was amazing to see so many fantastic entries for Best Student Film, which was won by Avery Angle for Small Makings of a Storm.”

Winners of each category received a statuette designed by animator, film maker and teacher Eimhín McNamara. The statuette resembles a Phenakistoscope, an early animation device used to create an illusion of motion.

Animation Ireland is the trade association for Ireland’s animation studios, representing forty-four member studios, who employ more than two thousand people on the island of Ireland.

The sector has seen meteoric growth in recent years, with the industry now generating almost €200 million for the economy annually, as Irish animation projects are viewed in over 190 countries worldwide.

The full list of winners for the 2023 Irish Animation Awards is:

Category	Production	Winners
Best Animated Preschool Series	Circle Square	Kavaleer Productions, Wyndley Animation
Best Animated Kids Series 6+	Tales from Dún Draíochta	Igloo Animations, Trevor Courtney
Kids Choice Preschool	Fia’s Fairies	Little Moon Animation, Vanessa Robinson, Eoghan Garvey
Kids Choice 6+	The Cuphead Show!	Lighthouse Studios Ruchi Shah – Paul Madden – Cormac Slevin
Best Animated Short Film	Soul Office	TAUNT
Best International Short Film	The Stranger	Jihye Jung, Jusuk Lee, Hyunju Kim
Best Writer for Preschool Animation	Odo – Doodle Song	Ishai Ravid
Best Writer for an animated series	Tales from Dún Draíochta- Lusmore and the Rapping Fairy	Trevor Courtney
Best Animation for Apps, Games and Interactive	Waggle	Katie McNeice, Maeve MacNamara, Jim Pipe
Best Art Direction and Design	Bardo	Aisling Conroy, Alan Holly, Cora McKenna
Best Director of an Animated Series	Karma’s world	Bronagh O’Hanlon, Pete McEvoy, Brian O’Brien
Best Animation Sequence	The Cuphead Show!	Julius Mingi, Dindo Santos, Gian Carla Atienza
Best Music	My Father’s Dragon	Jeff Danna, Mychael Danna
Best Sound Design	Memento Mori	Ed Costello, Ryan Quinn
Best Irish Feature or Special	My Father’s Dragon	Cartoon Saloon
Best Innovation in Animation	Face2Face – Charles & Camilla	Retinize & Flickerpix
Best Irish IP	Odo – Reggie	Colin Williams
Best Student Film	Small Makings of a Storm	Avery Angle
Best Editing	My Father’s Dragon	Richie Cody, Darren Holmes
Best Storyboarding	My Father’s Dragon	Giovanna Ferrari
Best VFX	My Father’s Dragon	Cartoon Saloon
Outstanding Contribution to the Industry	Teresa Mc Grane

Loughrea woman’s half-marathon fundraiser for Portiuncula Hospital

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May 29, 2023

Galway Daily news Loughrea woman's half-marathon fundraiser for Portiuncula Hospital

A Loughrea woman’s half-marathon fundraiser is being used to buy specialised medical equipment for cardiac patients at Portiuncula Hospital.

Joanna Mitchell from Loughrea in County Galway recently donated a cheque for €1,540 to the Cardiology Department at Portiuncula University Hospital.

She ran the Great Limerick Run half marathon and raised funds for the Cardiology Department through a Go Fund Me fundraiser.

Professor Aidan Flynn, Consultant Cardiologist at the hospital stated that they are extremely grateful for the donation.

The money will be used to buy specialised medical devices which help patients in determining if they have an irregular cardiac rhythm.

“The devices will allow us to collect specific information that will be essential in diagnosing a specific heart problem or ruling out a specific illness. It will be extremely beneficial to both patients and their cardiology team.”

Speaking about the donation, Joanna said that she too up the half-marathon as a challenge to herself, as she’d only been running for a year and wanted to find an incentive.

“My family and I have been blessed to have a fantastic hospital like Portiuncula to receive critical care when needed. I really wanted to give back to the hospital, and I’m thrilled that the money donated will be used to fund important medical devices.”

No progress in Oranmore Primary Care Centre standoff

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May 29, 2023

Galway Daily news No progress in Oranmore Primary Care Centre standoff

Plans to open a new Primary Care Centre in Oranmore are going back to the starting line due to a contact standoff.

Planning permission was granted for the construction of a primary care centre on the south side of Oranmore back in 2021.

However, construction work never began as the developer said that the original deal was no longer viable due to changing market conditions.

Joe Hoare, Assistant National Director, HSE Capital & Estates submitted information for a meeting of the Regional Health Forum last week that the HSE intends to re-advertise for the project once again in the coming weeks.

This was in response to a question from Councillor Liam Carroll seeking an update on the status of the proposed primary care centre.

An Agreement for Lease must be signed by both parties in the deal before construction can start, and the developer sought new commercial terms before signing an AFL.

Discussions have failed to resolve this standoff Joe Hoare said, and a national review of the impact of economic and inflationary pressures on the lease model for PCCs has also been carried out by the HSE recently.

“It has now been determined not to pursue any review of commercial terms of existing
projects. Developers of existing schemes have the option of proceeding as per their priced offers or where they cannot perform on their proposal, the location will be re-advertised.”

“It is intended to close out on the Oranmore project in the coming weeks in accordance with the national position,” Joe Hoare said.

“The HSE remains fully committed to a Primary Care Centre in Oranmore and is confident that a new process could be initiated shortly if required to deliver on the project.”

Bring Your Tribe to Galway – Ambassadors sought to bring international conferences to Galway

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May 29, 2023

07FÁILTE IRELAND Convention Bureau — Niamh Stack, Manager of Galway Convention Bureau, Cllr Clodagh Higgins, Mayor of Galway City, Darragh O'Connor, Chairperson of Galway Convention Bureau and Paul Mockler, Head of Commercial Development at Filte Ireland at Galway's Eyre Square, where Galway Convention Bureau relaunched its Conference Ambassador Programme. Photo: Andrew Downes

Galway Convention Bureau is looking for people throughout the region to become ‘Conference Ambassadors’, and help bring international events to the City of Tribes.

The Bureau promotes Galway as a destination for international meetings, conferences and events and is currently working on a pipeline of events worth €20m that will bring 11,000 people to Galway over the next four years.

The Conference Ambassador programme marks a drive to recruit industry leaders who can help showcase Galway on the national and international stage as a premier conference destination and place to do business.

The Convention Bureau team is particularly looking to speak to people from sectors such as academia, business, medicine, engineering, community and many more, who have the influence and profile to bring events that are relevant to them to Galway as the host destination, and offers a wide range of supports to assist in the process.

Niamh Stack, Manager of Galway Convention Bureau, said, “I would encourage anyone who has international association or organisational links abroad and who would like to bring an international conference to Galway to contact our team.”

“We will help with planning right from the start. We offer guidance on the various practical and financial supports available. We are here to make the process easier for you.”

“Galway has a fantastic business tourism product with much to offer a very competitive market. We want to work with more Conference Ambassadors to help make a big impact”

Paul Mockler, Head of Commercial Development at Fáilte Ireland said that each conference delegate is worth €1,880 to the Irish economy, up to three times the value of a leisure visitor.

“By bringing international thought leaders to Ireland for their events, we demonstrate Ireland’s prowess in many fields while at the same time learning from global leaders.”

“Fáilte Ireland invests in our regional convention bureaus as business events benefit the country regionally and out of the main tourism periods.”

The Galway Convention Bureau team helps Conference Ambassadors tackle the three biggest challenges of event planning – time, resources and budgeting, by offering a range of free supports, including:

Independent advice on all aspects of organising an international conference, from bidding to staging
Advice on access to vital financial support through Fáilte Ireland schemes
Sourcing of venue and accommodation options informed by valuable local knowledge
Introductions to local contacts and suppliers across the city and county

Mayor of Galway City Cllr Clodagh Higgins praised the work done by the Convention Bureau Team, stating that they have the expertise to ensure events are a success.

“They have aided many Conference Ambassadors in their journey to organise excellent conferences from a really diverse range of industries and sectors.”

“If anyone is in a position to host or help Galway win a Business Tourism event I would recommend they get in touch with the Convention Bureau and join the Ambassador programme which helps support our local economy”.

Galway’s community groups honoured at 2023 Cathaoirleach’s Awards

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May 29, 2023

Community groups from across County Galway gathered last weekend at the Meadowcourt Hotel in Loughrea for the Cathaoirleach’s Community Awards 2023.

Held in conjunction with the Cathaoirleach’s Ball, the awards ceremony was organised by Galway County Council in partnership with Galway County Public Participation Network.

The ball was hosted by the Cathaoirleach Cllr. Michael Maher and MC for the evening Bernadette Prendergast of Galway Bay FM.

Introducing the Cathaoirleach’s Awards, Cllr. Michael Maher commented, “Each year these awards acknowledge the contribution of volunteers across a wide range of local activity and the significant impact their actions have on quality of life.”

“Tonight’s awards will honour the work of groups across a range of activities which all serve to make our local areas better places to live, work and visit”.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, added that the awards recognise the “unique value and contribution” of volunteers in Galway, and the “impact on community wellbeing and quality of life” the provide.

2023 Award Winners

The winner of the Arts and Culture Award, which recognises groups who enhance their local area by promoting arts and culture, was Glenamaddy Theatre Festival.

Glenamaddy Theatre Festival has been in existence for over 60 years and has hosted the All-Ireland Drama Finals for the last three years. These finals have been instrumental in advancing and promoting the exceptional interest from people from the locality and has allowed Glenamaddy to demonstrate the fantastic artistic talent within the community.

The winner of the Best Contribution to Heritage Award, which recognises the efforts of Groups who promote the heritage of their local area, was Milltown Heritage Group.

The Group have worked collaboratively to embed their cultural heritage into the fabric of their town through various initiatives such as a “Special Letter Collection” which were launched as part of Heritage Week where people could come along and read the letter and listen to audio recordings.

The winner of the Environment & Climate Action Award, which recognises Groups or Schools who have worked within the community to improve the environment around them or reduce their impact on the environment, was East Corrib Alliance.

This group has brought together a number of angling groups on the east side of the Lough Corrib who carry out practical measures to improve water quality and habitat for salmon and trout.

They work closely with a number of agencies such as the Inland Fisheries Ireland and engage with local landowners and groups in the catchment area. The group facilitate peer to peer learning and host a number of field trips to educate people on the work they are carrying out.

The winner of the Social Inclusion Award, which recognises Groups or Community Facilities which support all people within the community to participate in social and community activities, was CURVE.

This group represents Ukrainians in Esker and the surrounding areas. CURVE coordinates a number of supports such as clothing and essential items, advocacy around school transport and accommodation and linking the Ukrainian Community with essential services locally and across the county.

The winner of the Sports Award, which recognises the efforts of Groups or Schools to increase participation in sport, particularly from groups with low participation rates, was Tuam Women’s Shed.

Tuam Women’s Shed gives its members opportunities to take part in a variety of physical activity programmes such as Activator Poles and Boccia. The group have also taken part in a number of Leader Training Courses so that they can run their own physical activity programmes in a sustainable way and drive the benefits of physical activity from within the group.

The winner of the Heritage Publication Award, which recognises the efforts of Groups or Schools to research and record the heritage of their area, was Emma Laffey – “An Bhean Ghlúine” – Midwife – Woman of the knee – Handywoman.

Emma’s research and work has brought the often-forgotten role that midwives played in health and care of children and mothers. The publication introduces us to some of the wonderful woman who were midwives during the early part of 20th century, when they were known as a ‘handywoman’. One lady, Mrs Anne Kilcommins from Mountbellew, was known as ‘Mrs come quick’!

The next award presented on the night was the Gaeilge Award, which recognises what groups are doing to preserve, promote and strengthen the use of the Irish language. The winners of the award were Ceoltoirí Oga Cois Fharraige for their work to promote and popularise the Irish language and musical traditions.

They also work with young people to strengthen their interest in music. In addition to this, a collection was posted on their new website at www.taiscecf.ie.

The winner of the Tidy Towns Recognition Award which recognises the achievements of local groups in the National Tidy Towns Competition and the impact that their work has on making our towns and villages attractive and welcoming places to live, work and visit was Abbey Community Development Association.

Abbey Community Development Association consistently achieve the highest marks in Tidiness and Litter Control at county level and have been selected to represent the South in ‘Best Kept Towns Competition 2022’ where they were shortlist as finalists of this competitive All-Island Competition.

Pride of Place Awards were presented to the 2 Groups who have been selected to represent County Galway in the IPB National Pride of Place Competition 2023, which is an All-Island competition to acknowledge and celebrate the work of communities to create civic pride in their area.

Gort River Walk Group are the County’s nominated entry in the Community Wellbeing Initiative, for the continuing development of Gort River walk which is a 3km beautiful, looped walk which encompasses amazing biodiversity, rest areas, and a new footbridge.

Creggs Rural Development are the County’s nominated entry in the Climate Action and Biodiversity for their commitment to promote, educate, raise awareness and enhance biodiversity within the village.

Cathaoirleach Michael Maher concluded the evening by announcing he had a special award to recognise the achievement of the Aleen Cust Memorial Society.

Aleen Isabel Cust was the first woman in Britain and Ireland to become a veterinary surgeon (vet). She became a vet at a time when it was not considered a suitable role for a woman.

Aleen’s struggle to be accepted as a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons took over 20 years and it was only through her determination and love for animals that she succeeded.

The Cathaoirleach presented each of the Groups with a specially commissioned award designed and hand-crafted by Sean Mahony.

Each group also received a Certificate and a cash prize of €500 to use for their work. The Cathaoirleach stated that the Award Winners during the night demonstrated the amazing quality of community and voluntary work happening around the County.#

The Awards for 2023 have been designed and hand-crafted by Sean Mahony, a local craft producer from Craughwell.

Each award is unique and is hand-made to resemble a Galway Hooker, with the sails made from spalted beech and the wood for the base blackened using an old Japanese method of burning wood.

Three University of Galway academics elected members of Royal Irish Academy

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May 29, 2023

galway daily news academics elected to royal irish academy — Dr Róisín Healy University of Galway at RIA ceremony with Deputy President and Registrar Professor Pól Ó Dochartaigh

University of Galway academics Professor Louise Allcock, Dr Róisín Healy and Professor John Laffey have been elected as Members of the Royal Irish Academy for their exceptional contribution to literature, antiquities and science.

They are among 28 new members admitted to the Academy by Professor Pat Guiry, President of the Royal Irish Academy, on Friday.

Louise Allcock is  Professor of Zoology at University of Galway. She is a world leader in systematics and biogeography of molluscs, with a focus on octopuses and deep-sea biota, and uses her broad knowledge to advocate for ocean conservation.

She has brought her passion to public attention via television, radio and beautifully illustrated books on ocean life. Professor Allcock has contributed actively to equality and diversity throughout her professional life.

Róisín Healy, who is senior lecturer in History at University of Galway, has published on modern German, Irish and Polish history. Dr Healy has helped forge a comparative history of colonialism in Europe by comparing British rule in Ireland with Prussian rule in Poland.

She has received funding from the Fulbright Commission, the Irish Research Council and the Alexander Von Humboldt Foundation.

John Laffey is Professor of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine and Director of Clinical Research at University of Galway’s School of Medicine and Galway University Hospitals.

Professor John Laffey, University of Galway

His research is focused on acute respiratory distress syndrome and sepsis. A major focus is on therapeutic potential of cell therapies and the effects of carbon dioxide in the critically ill.

President of University of Galway, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, extended his warmest congratulations to Professor Allcock, Dr Healy and Professor Laffey who he said have all made exceptional contributions in their respective fields.

“Research and academic excellence are the cornerstones of all that we do here at University of Galway, and I am very happy to see their work and achievements recognised by the RIA,” said Professor Ó hÓgartaigh.

Professor Pat Guiry, President of the Royal Irish Academy, said: “These individuals, elected by their peers, have made exceptional contributions in their fields of endeavour. We are delighted to recognise their achievements.

“As Members of the Academy, they will support the RIA by engaging and leading in activities that strengthen the international recognition of the Academy’s scholarship and serve the public good through their knowledge and insight.”

The RIA noted that Professor Allcock and Dr Healy were among 15 women elected as Members of the Academy as part of the latest awards for academic excellence.

Election to membership of the Royal Irish Academy is the highest academic distinction in Ireland. The Academy has been honouring Ireland’s leading contributors to the world of learning since its establishment in 1785.

Hospital cleaning and catering staff still waiting for special pandemic payment

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May 29, 2023

galway daily news half of hospital cleaners waiting for special covid payment

Over half of hospital cleaning and catering staff have yet to receive the Pandemic Special Recognition payment, a local senator has said.

Senator Aisling Dolan said the fact that these workers are waiting a year and a half for their payment is “wholly unacceptable and unfair”.

The Government decided in January 2022 to acknowledge the incredible work by healthcare staff during the Covid pandemic and the service they gave to help keep people safe.

“The Pandemic Special Recognition Payment of €1,000 is a very welcome and just acknowledgement of their work,” the Fine Gael senator said.

“Agency and contract staff working in catering and cleaning services were very much part of this cohort who played a vital role at this time – they provided essential services in infection control and bringing meals to patients on Covid-19 wards.

“It is only right and fair that these workers receive their payment. However, I am dismayed to learn that over half of them have not received anything, particularly at this time of rising costs.”

Senator Dolan said that many of these workers are on lower incomes and despite having worked as hard as and alongside their colleagues, they have seen all other groups being paid while they continue to wait.

“HSE employees including nurses, doctors, health and social care workers all received their payments last year.

“I raised this in the Seanad in November 2022 when 124,000 people in HSE and Sector 38 had received payment. Today I have learned that 205,000 eligible healthcare workers have received payments.”

Senator Dolan called for all outstanding payments to be made without delay.

Centripetal opens European hub with plans to create 50 jobs

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May 29, 2023

galway daily news centripetal jobs announcement for galway city — L-R: Anne Marie Tierney Le Roux, IDA, Jonathan Rogers, Centripetal, and Minister Hildegarde Naughton. Photograph by Aengus McMahon

Centripetal has today announced that it has opened its European Cyber Intelligence Centre in Galway to deal with cybersecurity issues in Ireland and across Europe.

The cybersecurity firm is headquartered in the US and has plans to create 50 jobs in Galway.

Its European centre of excellence in Mervue, Galway City will serve as the central hub where customers can work with them to gain insight on current threats and how they might be affected.

Customers will have access to Centripetal’s global cyber intelligence operations analyst team, who continuously analyse emerging threats.

“Today’s jobs announcement is yet another vote of confidence in Galway, in our available skilled workforce and in our city and county as a great place to work and live,” said Minister Hildegarde Naughten.

“Galway was home to a number of significant investment announcements last year including Fidelity Investment, Genesys, SAP and Diligent, so Centripetal are certainly in good company.

“Congratulations again to the entire team at Centripetal and thank you for choosing not only Galway but the people of Galway.”

Anne-Marie Tierney Le-Roux of IDA Ireland said the news that Centripetal is to open a European Cyber Intelligence Centre of Excellence in Galway is great news for the West Region, and this investment will support the development of the wider technology ecosystem in Ireland for cyber.

“The creation of 50 jobs is a vote of confidence in the talent and skill set that our regional locations in Ireland have to offer. I would like to wish Centripetal every success as they scale operations.”

Work underway to deliver fibre broadband for 2,500 homes in East Galway

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May 28, 2023

Galway Daily news Work underway to deliver fibre broadband for 2,500 homes in East Galway

Surveying work has begun in preparation of bringing high-speed fibre broadband to more than 2,500 homes in the Newbridge area of Galway.

These initial works pave the way for the next stage of deploying fibre on poles/ducts and includes the erection of poles, unblocking of ducts, and the insertion of sub duct into existing ducts, for the fibre to be installed.

There are now approximately 13,900 homes, business, and farms in Galway which can avail of high-speed fibre installed under the National Broadband Plan.

To date, more that 4,300 connections have been made to the network built by National Broadband Ireland (NBI).

NBI Chief Executive Peter Hendrick said that momentum has been steadily building for the rollout of the National Broadband Plan, with homes across the country now connected.

“Our teams continue to work on the rollout plan and steady progress has been made from surveying, design, build to connection works in County Galway.”

“As an increasing number of homes and businesses are being connected, we are confident that the rollout will continue to gather pace as we look to connect thousands more homes and businesses.”

He added that NBI are “acutely aware” that people want access to high speed broadband, and that they aim to deliver this as quickly as possible.

“Survey and designs are an important part of mapping out how every home, farm and business will be connected, and they provide the blueprint for how the NBI fibre is laid.”

“The BCPs are also a key milestone in delivering access to high-speed internet in the Intervention Area, and we’re delighted to see these being connected for access – internally and externally – right across Galway.”

There are a total of 38,714 premises in Galway which are slated to receive 500mb fibre broadband under the NBP, representing an investment of €153 million in the county.

Anniversary album celebrating 25 years of Trad music

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May 28, 2023

Galay Daily television Anniversary album celebrating 25 years of Trad music

Featuring all new material and including both past and present band members, influential band The London Lasses recently announced the release of their 25th anniversary album, LL25.

The album will be launched with a tour of Irish locations in June and July, including coming to Galway next weekend.

The recording celebrates their musical journey over the past quarter-century and showcases the powerfully traditional signature sound which they’ve become known for.

The album spans four centuries of Irish music, from ‘Planxty Thomas Burke’ penned by the harper- composer Carolan (1670-1738) to newly composed tunes by concertina player Edel Fox, flute player Tommy Fitzharris and harper Michael Rooney.

Captivatingly sung by vocalist Bróna McVittie, the album’s four songs include the beautiful ‘Bánchnoic Éireann Ó (The Fair Hills of Ireland)’, a song in praise of Ireland dating from the 1700s.

“There is great life and energy in the music from start to finish and it’s wonderful to see past members joining the current group for this celebratory recording,” said Neansaí Ní Choisdealbha, Head of Music, RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta.

LL25, featuring more than 400 years of Irish musical history, will have a launch event at An Taibhdhearc theatre in Galway City next Saturday, June 3.

LL25 is a celebration of both the close-knit group of musicians who have been part of the Lasses’ story so far, and the long history of traditional Irish music in London, a rich cultural heritage which they are extremely proud to be part of.

As band leader Karen Ryan says, “This album is one that’s very close to my heart. It brings together 16 wonderful musicians and brings back a lifetime’s worth of musical memories and friendships.”

Since first getting together for an informal tour of the US in 1997, The London Lasses have performed at some of the biggest festivals and venues in the world.

They include the Royal Albert Hall in London (where they played the first ever BBC Proms céilí), Cambridge Folk Festival, Dublin City Hall, the Concertgebouw, Philadelphia Irish Festival and Glastonbury.

From mellifluous vocals to lively instrumentals, The London Lasses invite you to join them on this special musical journey and experience the beauty and richness of traditional Irish music.

The full list of launch dates for the album is:

Thursday, June 1 – Matt Molloy’s, Westport (Co. Mayo)
Friday, June 2 – The Dock, Carrick on Shannon (Co. Leitrim)
Saturday, June 3 – An Taibhdhearc, Galway (Co. Galway)
Saturday, July 29 – Fiddler’s Green Festival, Rostrevor (Co. Down)

Album Track List:

JIGS: Caves of Kiltannon, The New Home, The Clare Shout
REELS: Dandy Dinny Cronin, Moving In Old Decency, Ballintore Fancy, Over The Bridge To Peggy
SONG: Rathfriland on the Hill
Planxty Thomas Burke
JIGS, REELS: The Woods of Caolrua, Dancing Eyes, The Crock of Gold, The White Fairy
SONG: Bánchnoic Éireann Ó
MARCHES: Jamesy Gannon’s, Triumphal March
REELS: The Leitrim Rover, The Punchbowl
SONG: The Blackbird of Mullaghmore
BARNDANCE, REEL: Peach Blossoms, The Sunny Banks
SLIP JIGS: Séamus Connolly’s Favourite, Gort Na Móna, The Night Before Larry Was Stretched
REELS: Martin Wynne’s No. 4, The Curlew, Nana Jo’s
SONG: Sweet Portaferry
REELS: The Culfadda, Farewell to London, Rossmore Jetty

Green light for new cultural centre from Black Gate founders

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May 28, 2023

Green light for new cultural centre from Black Gate founders

Galway City Council has given the green light to plans for a new downtown cultural centre by the people who founded The Black Gate.

Tra Gheall Ltd has received planning permission to convert two floors of a building on Flood Street to a venue similar to the Black Gate.

When converted it will consist of a café and bar on the ground floor, along with a performance/theatre space.

The application states that the preparation of food will be limited to cheese platters and charcutier, with no cooking on site.

The first floor of the building will be converted from office use to a recording studio and editing suite.

The City Council granted planning permission for the redevelopment with 14 conditions attached.

The council stipulated that the venue shall only be allowed to operate between 4pm and 11pm, Monday to Sunday, and that the café and bar area may not operate independently of the main cultural centre.

Two acoustic design reports were submitted as further information after the council raised concerns about the noise impact of the performance space and recording studio.

Work on the building will also involve converting two windows on the front facade to doorways.

Ros na Rún – The Man Who Knew Too Much

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May 28, 2023

Galway Daily television Ros na Rún - The Man Who Knew Too Much

Sonny is under pressure from all sides because of what he’s seen, Tadhg’s deception has bought Connall some time, and Bobbi Lee is done with Niall’s crap in Ros na Rún

Sonny is under pressure from Crystal to reveal what he heard and saw at the warehouse on the night of Sonia’s fall to the Gardaí.

The pressure mounts as Diana knows that Sonny is concealing something from her, and is determined to find out what.

Conall, thanks to Tadhg’s impersonation of John Joe, believes he has bought himself some time with Kelsey, and is hugely relieved. But will his relief be short-lived?

Noreen and John Joe worry Conall is unable to return to the states because of financial or visa problems. Will they discover the truth?

Bobbi Lee, having been left in the lurch by Niall, tells him to swing his hook – she no longer wants to work with him, or in Gaudi’s!

Catch up on all the latest developments in Ros na Rún this evening on TG4 at 7:30pm.

Garda appeal for 56-year-old man missing for over a week

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May 28, 2023

Galway Daily news Garda appeal for 56-year-old man missing for over a week

Gardaí are appealing to the public for information on a 56 year old man from the west who has been missing for more that a week.

John McNally (56) was last seen on Friday, May 19 in Shannon, Co. Clare.

John is described as being approximately 5 foot 5 inches in height with a stocky build. He has brown hair and blue eyes.

It is not known what John was wearing at the time he went missing.

Gardaí and John’s family are concerned for the missing man’s wellbeing.

Anyone with any information on John’s whereabouts is asked to contact Shannon Garda Station on 061 365 900, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

AI’s New Potential in Business Software Development

By

Thomas O'Brien

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May 28, 2023

With new advancements in generative artificial intelligence making the rounds, no part of the tech world has proven safe from their influence. Software development in business is one of these areas, where AI is gearing up to provide significant contributions to how we create and manage applications.

Taking a look at a few of these key technologies, we want to explore some examples of how these new systems of AI can play out, and what they mean for business software development going forward.

Coding Help

Writing computer code is a highly technical skill, and even the best in the world constantly have to deal with frustrating and hidden mistakes and bugs.

New generations of AI like what Google is producing with systems like Codey and Studio Bot can help to streamline this process, both in creating code and checking for errors.

“Source code security plugin” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Christiaan Colen

Simple syntax errors in long code could take humans days to track down, whereas AI could manage the same function in mere moments. It might not be able to understand the context of what code is supposed to do, yet AI can still boast general knowledge of thousands of functions and common mistakes.

Like with building a house, some aspects require enormous focus and expertise, but others are essentially basic work processes, and it’s here that AI can shine.

Asset Creation

Most business software, especially if it’s customer-facing, will require assets to make the experience engaging. For example, consider what goes into an online casino game like the Action Bank slot.

This 20-payline 95.16% RTP slot is based on the concept of safe cracking, big vaults, and big prizes. Though the assets in this title were created by hand, future games could just as easily turn to AI image creation tools like Midjourney to develop imagery that can be adapted into workable graphics.

This would be unique, and though it would still require the world of artists to modify the work as Action Bank does, AI could speed up the process considerably.

The same can be said for software that wants to create a mood through music. As covered in this list of music AI generators at Unite, musical generative software could be used to develop songs no matter your skill level.

From amateurs who want entirely new soundtracks as the soundtrack for a video game to those looking for relaxed ambient backing for a mobile app, AI can provide fantastic work.

It still requires human input to adjust for irregularities, though by saving tens or hundreds of hours in the process, this is a price many would happily pay.

“Artificial intelligence” (Public Domain) by Wendelin Jacober

The overall effect of new generative AI in business software development is profound, but ultimately, its place is that of an assistant. Artificial intelligence is an incredibly powerful tool, but it’s a tool that can’t be relied on for completely accurate output. Instead, AI will contribute to providing content where human labour isn’t available, and to check work for errors that humans might have missed. Together with humans, AI can lower barriers to entry and help reduce errors, and just how much it contributes to these areas, expect its coming effects to be transformative.

Gardaí investigate after woman (30s) found dead this morning

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May 27, 2023

Galway Daily news missing teen found safe

Gardaí in Roscommon are investigating all circumstances surrounding the discovery of a woman’s body at a private residence in Kilglass, Co. Roscommon this morning.

The woman, aged in her 30s, was discovered unresponsive this morning, Saturday, before 9am.

The body of the woman was removed from the scene to University Hospital Galway.

A post-mortem examination will be conducted by the Office of the State Pathologist, tomorrow, Sunday, the results of which will determine the course of the investigation.

The scene at Kilglass, Co. Roscommon is currently preserved for a technical examination.

Gardaí in Castlerea are appealing to any person who may have information in relation to this incident to contact them at Castlerea Garda Station on 094 962 1630, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

FSAI to host free webinar for starting new food business

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May 27, 2023

Galway Daily news Green light for popular restaurant owners to convert vacant building

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) will mark World Food Safety Day on Wednesday, 7 June with a ‘Breakfast Bite’ webinar titled ‘Starting a Food Business – What you Need to Know’.

The ‘Breakfast Bite’ webinars are a series of free, informal virtual meetings for food businesses and for people who may be thinking of setting up a food business.

Participants will hear the FSAI’s Advice Line Team – Niamh Dowling, Chloe Coen and Kevin Rowland – outline best practice on setting up a food business, who you need to contact, and the food legislation with which you need to comply.

All types of food businesses are covered by the presentation, including food trucks and other mobile units.

The webinar is free and the link to register can be found here.

There will be an opportunity for participants to ask all panel members questions following their presentations.

Dr Pamela Byrne, CEO of FSAI, is encouraging people to sign up for the Breakfast Bite webinar.

“We would call on anyone who is considering or currently setting up a food business to attend this short webinar which will cover everything you need to know on food safety and hygiene,” she said.

“It’s crucial for all food businesses to understand and comply with food legislation and so we also urge food business owners and operators to attend the webinar as a refresher.”

Wednesday, 7 June also marks World Food Safety Day.

Dr Byner said that through World Food Safety Day, the World Health Organization works to mainstream food safety in the public agenda and reduce the burden of foodborne diseases globally.

“Consumers have a right to safe food and all food businesses – whether well-established or newly-founded – must pay close attention to food safety and hygiene standards, which helps ensure that what we eat is safe. Food standards save lives.”

Galway temperatures keep rising as high pressure dominates!

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May 27, 2023

There is no end in sight for the beautiful weather we have seen over the past few days, and temperatures are likely to rise into the mid-twenties by the end of next week.

Met Éireann has said that the high pressure will continue to dominate over the next seven days, bringing more pleasant sunshine and higher temperatures as the week goes on.

There will be more sunshine by Friday afternoon with highs of 17 to 20 degrees, touching 21 degrees in some inland spots.

It will remain dry and sunny over the weekend, with afternoon temperatures of 17 degrees.

But next week, it will gradually become warmer, with early forecasts showing 24 degrees by Friday.

Nighttime temperatures will also rise to around 10 degrees as the high pressure continues to build.

The Department of Agriculture issued a Condition Orange high fire warning due to the current dry spell which is set to last until Monday, May 29 at least.

It said a high fire risk exists in all areas where “hazardous fuels such as dead grasses and shrub fuels such as heather and gorse exist.”

Huge problem with zero-hour contracts in third level institutions

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May 27, 2023

Galway Daily news 30 percent of University of Galway graduates got first class honours this year

A local TD has urged Minister Simon Harris to address precarious working conditions for PhD researchers and early academics in third level institutions.

Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell said that there is a huge problem in the sector with what are ‘essentially zero-hour contracts’.

Deputy Farrell said that talk about this state building a knowledge economy has not matched the reality on the ground.

She said that nowhere is this clearer than in the treatment of PhD researchers and early career academics.

This week in Leinster House, TDs heard about the shocking levels of precariousness faced by many in the sector.

They heard that one Teaching Fellow in Trinity College Dublin became homeless for a time because he had no income during the summer months.

“There is a huge problem in the sector with what are essentially zero hour contracts,” said the Sinn Féin TD.

“According to the Journal.ie there were 11,200 lecturers working these short-term temporary contracts.”

“It seems incredible in this day and age that we are still allowing these types of contracts.

“We know the negative impact they have on financial security with impacts on the ability to get a 12-month lease or applying for a mortgage.

“We know they impact social insurance contributions and often you cannot get sick leave or maternity leave.”

Deputy Farrell added that we know from a health perspective they can induce anxiety and mental health issues.

“But the good news is that we have the Future of Funding report which was produce last July,” she said.

“It was signed off by a joint Oireachtas committee made up of all parties. So there’s a clear consensus here, but we cannot allow this to become something akin to Slaintecare where everybody signs up and then little progress is made.

“The time has come for action. This state won’t be able to build a knowledge economy off the back of precarious labour.”

Two people resuced by Clifden RNLI 10 km from shore

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May 27, 2023