Hospital overcrowding out of control ahead of extremely busy weekend

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March 15, 2023

Galway Daily news Farmers getting €13.4 million basic payment scheme refunds

Local TD Seán Canney has called on the Government to build trust with farmers where land is designated for up to 26 years.

Canney, along with TDs Denis Naughten and Carol Nolan recently met Minister Malcolm Noonan and an IFA team to try to instil a sense of urgency and commitment to put a long-term model in place.

The Minister expressed the view that permanent funding is required and confirmed that he is working towards this.

It is expected that a permanent funding model will be in place within two years.

IFA representatives, Pat Murphy, chair of the project team for Designation, and Charlie Killeen, a long-time campaigner, expressed concern that there were two agreements already in place which were never honoured.

In conclusion the Minister vowed to work with farmers and welcomed the fact that the IFA had a dedicated Project Team that the Department can work with.

“There is a lot of work to be done yet and a lot of trust to be built and the onus is on the Minister and Government to demonstrate that the day of false promises are over and direct supports will be provided to farmers with designated lands especially along the Shannon callows,” said Deputy Canney.

Gardaí called 139 times to River Corrib in past 6 years

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March 15, 2023

Galway Daily news Claddagh Watch extending patrol efforts for Rag Week

Gardaí have been called 139 times over the past six years to the River Corrib in Galway responding to persons entering, or attempting to enter, the water.

Data released to Aontú by the Minister for Justice shows that in the first 11 months of 2022, Gardaí were called to the river 30 times.

Responding to the statistics, Aontú’s representative for Tuam, Luke Silke, said that he is “doubtful about the accuracy of these statistics” as it seems to be “very difficult to extract accurate data” from the Garda Pulse system.

He called on the government to look into this, because he said the issue is difficult to resolve unless there is a proper way of quantifying the problem.

Mr Silke volunteers with Claddagh Watch which patrols the rivers and bridges of Galway city at night seeking to prevent people from entering the water.

He said that since July 2019, the group has been involved in 387 incidents where blue light services have been involved.

“Sixteen of these incidents related to people in the water. Volunteers in Galway have given over 12,300 hours of their time across 408 patrols.

“It is truly phenomenal that the founders of the organisation – Arthur and Deborah Carr – can say that we’ve never lost anyone to the water on any night that we’ve been out. There can be no doubt that these patrols are saving countless lives in this county.

“If anyone out there can offer support or wishes to volunteer I would urge them to contact the group ‘Claddagh Watch Patrol’ on Facebook.”

Silke said that the blue light services have been fantastic, and “one cannot but be struck by the speed with which they respond to an emergency call.”

“We in Aontú are of the view that the Garda pulse system needs updating, and we need a proper method of measuring this problem in Galway.

“The statistics as extracted from the pulse system are an underestimate when compared with the data compiled by Claddagh Watch Patrol.

“Galway is a wonderful city to live, work or study in, but we do have a fierce amount of water flowing through the town. I would urge people – especially over the St Patrick’s Day weekend to look out for one another, to stay safe and to stay together.”

Galway PhDs to protest over low pay and poor work conditions

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March 15, 2023

PhD researchers in University of Galway are set to protest again over low pay and poor working conditions.

PhDs will assemble at 11am on Thursday, 23 March outside the University’s library, coinciding with a demonstration outside the Dáil.

The latest demo follows a number of protests in 2022 across the country as PhDs looked to secure better pay for their work.

PhD researchers in University of Galway earn, on average, below €18,500 a year – far below the minimum wage and living wages in Ireland and only marginally above the poverty line.

The Postgraduate Workers Organisation Galway (PWO) submitted responses this week to the consultation questions of a national review of state supports for PhD researchers.

PWO Galway presented a full submission to the national review, calling for worker status across Irish universities, being paid a living wage, and receiving equal pay for equal work.

Postgraduate Workers Organisation (PWO) of Ireland emerged as Postgraduate Workers Unions across the country joined forces to collectively work for PhD rights.

A spokesperson for PWO Galway explained why this new union emerged, saying that whilst consultation with the Department of Higher Education and Training is ongoing, the national review has so far failed to prioritise the voices of the PhD community.

“The Department should ensure that the national review involves a process of serious and genuine consultation of the PhD researcher community, including by meeting directly with PhD researchers across Irish universities, including at the University of Galway, organising roundtable discussions with us, and listening to our growing needs and concerns.”

The best young talents from Ireland in 2023

By

Angela Mc Bride

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March 15, 2023

The best young talents from Ireland in 2023

As far as footballing countries go, the Republic of Ireland is one of the standouts.

This is not just because of its closeness to the spiritual home of the people’s game, the United Kingdom (made up of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland), but because it is one of the first nations to form a national team for the sport.

Based on Overlyzer’s live football trends, here are the best young talents from Ireland.

Justin Ferizaj

18-year-old Justin Ferizaj is currently the hottest prospect in Irish football.

Having already made his senior debut with Irish club Shamrock Rovers, the Republic of Ireland under-19 midfielder has been described as having ability way beyond his age. Scouts from the biggest clubs have taken notice and he is now being linked with a move to England or across the continent of Europe.

He is of Albanian descent and has also caught the eye of the Albanian Football Association. Better yet, the immediate past President of Albania, Ilir Meta, is a big fan of the player and has praised him many times.

The Irish football governing body may not find it difficult convincing Ferizaj to pledge his senior allegiance to the boys in green, but with Albania now paying close attention, they will surely be working hard to secure his future with them.

Gavin Bazunu

At 21, the 1.89 metres tall (6 feet 2 inches) Southampton goalkeeper is already giving Caoimhín Kelleher (Liverpool, 24) and Mark Travers (Bournemouth, 23) a run for their money to be Ireland’s first choice goalkeeper.

First, he proved to be better than Fraser Forster at Southampton, forcing the Englishman to move on to another club (Tottenham Hotspur), and then he kept Alex McCarthy far from the starting lineup at the Premier League club to officially become the number 1.

Alongside Kelleher and Travers, he is making the Republic of Ireland stronger defensively, giving head coach Stephen Kenny a lot to think about whenever he wants to pick a starting XI.

At 21, he can serve the nation for quite some time and help them become a team that Irish football fans can be proud of in the coming years.

Evan Ferguson

These days, being able to play for Brighton and Hove Albion means you are one of the best around.

The Seagulls have established themselves as scouting geniuses in recent years. From Moises Caicedo to Jakub Moder, to Alexis Mac Allister and Kaoru Mitoma, the Premier League side have spent little to bring in quality that has made them as string as the big-spending big six of the English top flight.

After making his senior debut at 14 years old for Bohemians in the League of Ireland, Brighton went to war with Liverpool for the striker and won in 2021, sending him to their academy for a further year of development.

Less than a year later, in 2022, he was in their Premier League matchday squad and on his 18th birthday, he signed his professional contract with the club. He is now a key cog in Roberto De Zerbi’s machine as they march on slowly to a top six finish in the ongoing season.

The striker has only two caps for the boys in green which means he is open to switching to England, seeing as he has ties to the country from his mother’s side. The Irish football governing body will be working hard to keep him from switching.

Nathan Collins

The giant 1.93-metre (6 feet 4 inches) centreback is grabbing all the attention in the Premier League.

After impressing as a teenage centreback for Stoke City between 2019 and 2021, Burnley snapped him up for the 2021/22 Premier League season. He made 19 appearances for the Clarets before their relegation.

This was enough to get the other mid-table teams interested and Wolverhampton Wanderers beat the others to his signature. 18 appearances later, Collins is looking like a steal and one who could move on to a bigger club.

He is already one of Stephen Kenny’s most trusted players in the Ireland national team and has even been touted as a future captain. In that regard, the 21-year-old could look to Christian Pulisic of the United States Men’s National team and Martin Ødegaard of Norway.

Collins is also the highest valued player of Irish origin, with his current transfer value of €22 million.

Troy Parrott

The 21-year-old is currently on loan at Preston North End in the EFL Championship from Tottenham Hotspur where he spent the final years of his developmental stages.

Spurs believe so much in him that they have refused to move him on, sending him on loan to various clubs so that he can get playing time.

He is a player who is still waiting to stake a claim to being a Republic of Ireland stalwart but after his spell at Milton Keynes Dons, his game has greatly improved and he has carried that form to Preston North End, where he is being watched by other clubs and by Spurs for a possible reintegration into their side.

He is also in contention for a return to the Ireland national team squad thanks to his rapid improvement.

Galway groups urged to enter National Lottery Good Causes Awards

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March 15, 2023

The National Lottery is urging beneficiaries of Good Causes funding to apply for the 2023 awards, where a €35,000 prize is up for grabs.

The awards celebrate the inspiring work and achievements of thousands of projects, clubs and individuals all over Ireland.

Thise groups whcih have had an extraordinary impact on their local communities through their work.

Last year’s awards saw winners including Gaillimh le Gaeilge, a non-profit organisation founded 30 years ago with the aim of promoting the Irish language in Galway city.

They do this by providing their services free of charge to business communities and to the people of Galway to encourage them to use the language.

It was this amazing work that secured them the overall Irish language awards at last year’s Good Causes Awards 2022.

Individuals, community projects and organisations who received Good Causes funding between the years 2018 and 2022 are eligible to apply.

Applications for the Awards are now open and beneficiaries can check eligibility and enter at http://www.lottery.ie/goodcausesawards.

The closing date for applications is March 31st.

The Awards will have seven categories which are:

• Sport

• Health and Wellbeing

• Arts & Culture

• Heritage

• Community

• Youth

• Irish Language

A special category, ‘Hero of the Year’, will also be announced at the Awards final, in recognition of outstanding work done by an individual within an organisation and will receive a prize of €5,000.

Each category winner will receive €10,000 while the overall Good Cause of the Year will receive an additional €25,000.

This year’s National Lottery’s Good Causes Awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, October 21 in Killashee House Hotel in Naas, Co. Kildare.

Come see for yourself what’s brewing at Galway Hooker

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March 15, 2023

Get an up close look at where the magic is made at Galway Hooker Craft Brewing Company with their new brewery tours starting this week.

Getting underway this Thursday, March 16 visitors can get an up close look at what goes into making Galway Hooker’s award winning family of beers.

The brewery, which takes its name from Galway’s iconic boats, is located in the coastal town of Oranmore, providing a scenic setting for what promises to be a fun and interesting experience.

Groups can visit Connacht’s oldest existing brewery as they are taken on a guided journey to hear all about the origin story behind Galway Hooker, right through to the specialised methods and four natural ingredients they use to create their family of beers.

Participants will learn all about how Galway Hooker came to be, the various beers it makes, the craftsmanship involved in transforming a beer idea into reality, and more.

Plus, they will get to experience and taste for themselves the many beers offered by Galway Hooker, including The Original Irish Pale Ale, 60 Knots IPA, Organic Pilsner, and their Honey Beer.

“I’m really looking forward to welcoming people to our brewery in Oranmore,” said Galway Hooker co-founder Aidan Murphy.

“For 17 years now, we’ve been brewing our beers in Galway, and it will be fantastic to open our doors to groups. Welcoming people in to hear how we do it all will be a lot of fun.”

“Everyone will be able to see our brewing floor, hear how we came to be, and – most importantly of all – taste some of the quality beers we brew right here on site.”

“It’s a great way to spend a day out with a big group of mates,” Aidan added.

These tours offer an ideal way for hens, stags, large groups, and more to savour some of the brewery’s distinctive offerings.

Group bookings of between 10 and 40 people are welcome to experience what it’s like to spend an hour in a high-production brewery.

It’s a fantastic way for groups to enjoy Galway Hooker’s core group of beers, plus the tour will also give customers the chance to savour new additions as they are introduced, such as seasonal craft brews and other drinks.

Galway Hooker is part of the Connacht Hospitality Group, and the team has been brewing something special since 2006 when the brewery was originally founded.

What started with a conversation in a pub between two friends has grown into a big success story over the years, and Galway Hooker’s team is always seeking new ways to add to the story with new brews and interesting ideas.

To discover more about Galway Hooker’s tours, why not visit the information page which includes everything you need to know – including how to book.

Best of Irish television to be celebrated at RTS Awards in Galway

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March 15, 2023

Galway Daily news Annual BiG BANG networking event taking place in Galway City — The Galmont Hotel

The best of Irish television will be celebrated in Galway this month at the annual RTS Ireland Television Awards.

The RTS Ireland Television Awards seek to recognise Irish productions and international co-productions which are considered by peer jury members to have made a positive contribution worthy of acclaim by the industry and Irish viewers.

Juries considered over 130 entries from across the industry, and have narrowed down the list of nominations for 10 categories.

Caitlín Nic Aoidh and Cormac Ó hEadhra with special guests will announce winners at a gala event in the Galmont Hotel in Galway on March 28.

RTS Ireland Awards Chairperson Lís Ní Dhálaigh said, “TG4 is delighted to host the RTS awards this year, and we look forward to welcoming producers and programme teams to Galway, a thriving hub for the screen industry in Ireland.”

“The awards are supported by Irish broadcasters TG4, Virgin Media, Sky and RTÉ. The awards are kindly sponsored by Screen Ireland, BAI and Screen Producers Ireland.”

“Category sponsors include Nemeton TV, Egg Post Production, Screenscene, Ardán, IMRO, Piranah Bar, Camerakit Ireland, Windmill Lane and TVM.”

The full list of nominees for this year’s awards is:

1 – THE NOMINEES | DRAMA | with thanks to Screen Ireland

Doineann, DoubleBand Films (TG4)
Every Five Miles, Vico Films (RTÉ)
Holding, Happy Prince, Port Pictures (Virgin Media)
Redemption, Metropolitan Films (Virgin Media)
Smother, Treasure Entertainment (RTÉ)

2 – THE NOMINEES | ENTERTAINMENT | with thanks to Piranha Bar

Callan Kicks the Year, Wonky Chair Media, (RTÉ)
Cumasc: Seisiúin sa Black Gate, Black Gate Productions (TG4)
Dancing with the Stars, ShinAwiL (RTÉ)
Free Gaff, Green Inc Film & Television (RTÉ)
The Ultimate Irish Playlist, ShinAwiL (RTÉ)

3 – THE NOMINEES | FACTUAL SERIES | with thanks to Egg Post Production

Cois Móire, Cormorant Films (TG4)
Crimes and Confessions (RTÉ)
An Diabhal Inti, Lagan Media Productions (TG4)
Great Lighthouses of Ireland, Inproduction TV (RTÉ)

4 – THE NOMINEES | FACTUAL SINGLE | with thanks to Nemeton TV

Cyril Cusack: Lár An Stáitse, Dearg Films (TG4)
Speechless, Firebrand Productions (RTÉ)
The Ghost of Richard Harris, Bright Yellow Films, Samson Films, Groove International (Sky Arts)
Young Plato, Soilsiu Films, Aisling Productions, Clin d’Oeil Films and Zadig Productions (RTÉ)

5 – THE NOMINEES | SPORT | with thanks to TVM

Anton O’Toole – Finscéal de Shaol GAA, Bankos Tales Productions (TG4)
The Connacht Way, Motherland (RTÉ)
Laochra Gael – Terence McNaughton, Nemeton TV (TG4)
Munster Vs South Africa A (Virgin Media Television)
Saipan – Rebel without a Ball, (RTÉ)

6 – THE NOMINEES | NEWS & CURRENT AFFAIRS | with thanks to Camerakit.ie

The Accountant, the Con, the Lies (RTÉ)
The Death of Ashling Murphy (Virgin Media News)
Eden Heaslip (RTÉ)
RTÉ Investigates: Missing Pieces (RTÉ)
Tragedy in Creeslough (Sky News)

7 – THE NOMINEES | ANIMATION | with thanks to Windmill Lane

Boy Girl Dog Cat Mouse Cheese, Kavaleer Productions, Watch Next Media, Cloud Co (RTÉ)
Fia’s Fairies, Little Moon Animation (RTÉjr)
The Ghastly Ghoul, Dream Logic Animation Studios and Lupus Films (RTÉ)
Kiva Can Do, Kavaleer Productions (RTÉ)
The Presenter, Cardel Entertainment (RTÉ)

8 – THE NOMINEES | SPECIALIST FACTUAL| with thanks to Ardán

An Buachaill Gealgháireach, Imagine Media (TG4)
Francis Bacon, The Outsider, Mount Venus Productions (RTÉ)
Ireland’s Dirty Laundry, New Decade TV (RTÉ & ARTE)
Maeve Binchy: The Magic of the Ordinary (RTÉ)
A Note for Nature, Crossing the Line Films (RTÉ)

9 – THE NOMINEES | CHILDREN’S PROGRAMME | with thanks to IMRO

Blast from the Past, Firebrand Productions (RTÉ)
Dizzy Deliveries, Macalla Teoranta (RTÉ)
Ireland’s Future is Mine, Tamber Media & Reverist (RTÉ)
The Imagination Machine, Firebrand Productions (RTÉ)
Storybud, Kite Entertainment (RTÉ)

10 – THE NOMINEES | FACTUAL ENTERTAINMENT | with thanks to Screenscene

Bagatelle – Ómós do Liam Reilly, Four Quadrant Films (TG4)
Generation Dating, Coco Content (Virgin Media)
Gogglebox Ireland, Kite Entertainment (Virgin Media)
Lucy Investigates, ADARE Productions (Virgin Media One)
Secrets from the Showroom (RTÉ)

Plans submitted for demolition of former UHG Emergency Department

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March 15, 2023

Planning permission is being sought to demolish the former emergency department building at UHG in order to clear the ground for the new one.

The Health Service Executive has submitted and application to the county council to demolish temporary prefab buildings which had been used for out patient services.

The HSE also intends to knock two permanent single storey buildings, one of which was used for the former emergency department, and the other of which held ancillary services.

This is to clear the site for the planned construction of a new permanent Emergency Department and Women’s and Children’s Department.

University Hospital Galway moved the emergency department to a new location at the front of the hospital last October to vacate this area.

“Notwithstanding the requirement to remove the buildings to clear the site, the greater part of the buildings have reached the end of their useful life,” the Architectural Statement submitted with the application states.

“There are also significant infrastructural problems associated with them, particularly foul drainage. The buildings have been built over the existing foul drainage system and parts of it are inaccessible.”

It states that there ongoing maintenance problems in this area, resulting in foul odours and blockages in the system.

“Reinstatement works comprise blocking up openings which previously formed links between the hospital main block and the buildings to be removed, reinstating roads and footpaths to a safe condition and temporary surfacing of the site.”

The site will also need to be fenced off after demolition is completed for underground site and services investigations to be carried out before the new Emergency Department is built.

A decision on this planning application is due from Galway County Council by May 3 of this year.

Notwithstanding these demolition works, it will be some time before the new permanent emergency department is built, with the project not expected to be delivered until 2027 at the earliest.

Council investigating after sheep and lambs injured or missing in suspected dog attack

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March 15, 2023

Galway daily news sheep killed in serious animal attacks

Galway County Council has warned farmers to be on the lookout for dog attacks after a suspected sheep worrying incident has left several animals unaccounted for.

The council’s Dog Warden is currently investigating a suspected sheep worrying incident which occurred in Deerpark, Kilchreest last Sunday.

A number of ewes and lambs were injured in the incident, and several lambs remain unaccounted for.

“We are asking that farmers in the area be particularly vigilant against the threat of dog attacks on livestock at this time,” the council said.

The council also issued a reminder that it is the legal responsibility of dog owners to ensure that their dogs are under effective control at all time.

“Attacks on sheep can result in economic losses to the farmer, for which the dog owner can be held liable under the Control of Dogs Act.”

“If you witness an incident of sheep worrying or damage to livestock in Galway County, please report it immediately to Galway County Council and (An Garda Siochana).”

“It is important that all incidents be reported as soon as possible following the incident; Tel: 091-509510 Email, dogwardens@galwaycoco.ie”.

Galway City streets being closed this summer to help pubs and restaurants with outdoor dining

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March 14, 2023

Galway Daily news Pedestrianising of city streets

Galway City Council has issued notification of its plans to pedestrianise a number of streets around the city to encourage outdoor dining this summer.

The council intends to provide space for outdoor dining, festivals, and other events for a period of five months this year.

The pedestrianisation would cover the summer period, starting on Friday, April 28 and lasting until Sunday, October 1.

Some of the roads will only be closed during the evening times, while others would be shut to traffic 24/7.

Dominick Street Upper, between the junctions with William Street and the bridge, would be closed from 6pm to 11pm each evening.

Raven’s Terrace in the westend will be shut from 6pm to 11pm each evening, as will William Street West, between Small Crane and Munster Avenue.

The Small Crane, between William Street West and the New Street West junction, will be pedestrianised permanently during the summer months.

And lastly, the outbound lane of Woodquay Street, between Daly’s Place and the Headford Road, would also be shut to traffic 24/7.

The pedestrianisation of many city centre streets was an initiative that began during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing more space for safer outdoor areas, during lockdown, and to help them as restrictions eased.

One of those changes, Cross Street in the city centre, was made permanent year round back in 2021 after changes were made to the city’s traffic flow.

Diversion signage will be in place for motorists during the summer, and local access will be maintained where needed.

Maps and documents related to the planned closures can be found on the council website or at city hall.

Submissions or objections related to the plans can be made in writing or by email roads@galwaycity.ie until 12pm on March 31.

Planning refused for Oranmore apartments near shopping centre

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March 14, 2023

Galway Daily news Green light for Oranmore housing development by Shopping Centre

Galway County Council has refused planning permission for an apartment and duplex development near Oranmore Town Centre Shopping Centre.

The application, by Kenny Developments Contracting Limited, was to build two three storey residential buildings on a site at Millplot, Oranmore, on the Station Road.

The plans were for 4 ground floor, two-bed units; 3 ground floor, one-bed apartments; and 7 three-bed duplex units.

A derelict detached house and sheds which are currently on the site were to be demolished.

The county council gave four reasons for refusing planning permission, noting that the site is within an identified flood risk area.

The council’s decision said that, based on the information submitted, that it was not satisfied that the site, or portions of it, would not be susceptible to flooding in the future.

Concerns were also expressed about the disposal of surface water from the site, and the potential environmental impacts on protected areas from this and the risk of flooding.

The final reason given for rejecting the application was the “design and scale” of the housing development and deficient communal open space, stating that this would fail to integrate with the area, and detract from the “general amenity of the area”.

Multi-agency search operation after distress beacon detected off Galway coast

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March 14, 2023

Galway Daily news Multi-agency search operation after distress beacon detected off Galway coast — Aran Islands RNLI all-weather lifeboat

A multi-agency search operation took place around the coastline of North Connemara on Monday after a distress signal was detected.

Units of the Clifden RNLI, Cleggan Coast Guard, and Rescue 118 helicopter were dispatched on Monday morning after an EPIRB distress signal was detected by Malin Head Coast Guard in the area of Letterfrack.

An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is a device to alert search and rescue services in case of an emergency out at sea.

Both the Shannon Class all-weather lifeboat and the Atlantic 85 lifeboat were dispatched from Clifden RNLI station.

The all-weather lifeboat was the first to launch, and began searching the area of Mullaghloss on the Renvyle peninsula.

The Irish Coast Guard Sligo based Helicopter, Rescue 118 was also tasked to search along with Cleggan Coast Guard units.

An extensive search was carried out of the reported areas by all assets with a large portion of the north Connemara coast searched.

With all involved satisfied that there was no vessel in distress in the area the Coast Guard stood down all assets and the volunteer crew returned to station.

Clifden RNLI Coxswain Alan Pryce said that the callout, “demonstrates how a well coordinated multi agency search can cover a very large area thoroughly and efficiently.”

“Thankfully there was no vessel in distress on this occasion but we remain ready to respond every time the pager goes.”

Speaking about EPIRBs Alan added, “Emergency beacons are a lifesaving piece of equipment, I would encourage any boat owners to check the service status and registration details of any beacons on board.”

“If you don’t have an EPIRB you should consider getting one because they will help search and rescue services to pinpoint the location of a vessel in distress.”

More than €3 million aid for seed and chipping potato farmers

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March 14, 2023

Galway Daily news blight warning for galway

More than €3 million in funding has been announced to aid seed and chipping potato growers, good news for anyone that likes good chips.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue announced the opening of the 2023 Scheme of Investment Aid for the Seed Potato and Chipping Potato Sector today.

The scheme has been expanded this year to include growers of Irish chipping potatoes.

It will support the sector by aiding improvements in the production, storage and marketing infrastructure of seed and chipping potatoes.

This will be done through grant aid to farmers towards the cost of specialized equipment and facilities.

The scheme, which is worth €3.1m in 2023, is funded from Ireland’s allocation from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve Fund (BAR).

Minister Charlie McConalogue said that he is a “strong supporter” of farmers growing seed and chipping potatoes, and wants to see the sector flourish in the years to come.

“We are potato royalty and I want to ensure that there is a strong and vibrant industry in the years ahead.”

Potato shortage

Minister McConalogue said that this aid scheme is in recognition of the challenges facing the Irish potato sector since Brexit.

In relation to seed potatoes, approximately 4,000 tonnes of seed potatoes previously supplied by Great Britain, as of January 2021, can no longer be imported into Ireland.

In addition, Ireland imports approximately 64,000 tonnes of potatoes from the UK. Most of these fresh potato imports are used by chip shop owners.

“The expansion of the scheme to include Irish chipping potato growers will help to secure and futureproof the potato industry and again demonstrates my commitment to the ongoing development of this important industry.”

“This Scheme will enable these specialized growers to develop capacity and ensure a renewed focus on the local supply model.”

Minister of State with special responsibility for Horticulture Pippa Hackett said that this scheme will “facilitate the expansion” of the growth of seed and chipping potatoes.

“The funding provided by this Scheme will be of great benefit to those growers in the seed and chipping potato sectors and will assist them in developing their capacity ensuring a consistent supply of Irish potatoes and displacements of imports.”

Almost 70 people on trolleys in Galway’s hospitals today

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March 14, 2023

Galway Daily news 67 people on trolleys at UHG

There are almost 70 patients on trolleys in Galway’s public hospitals today, INMO Trolley/Ward Watch figures show.

University Hospital Galway is the third most overcrowded in the country today, with 55 patients on trolleys.

There are 44 patients in the emergency department at UHG without a bed, and another 11 in the wards.

At Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe there are a further 12 patients admitted with no beds available for them this morning.

Of these patients, 8 are on trolleys in the emergency department, while 4 are in the hospital wards.

Nationwide there are a total of 627 patients admitted to hospital with no beds available for them today.

University Hospital Limerick is the worst affected, as usual, with 97 people on trolleys, followed by Cork University Hospital with 76, and then UHG.

Cúirt Literature Festival returning with page turning programme

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March 14, 2023

Cúirt Literature Festival returning with page turning programme

Cúirt International Festival for Literature is returning to Galway next month with an exciting lineup of leading Irish and International writers.

The 38th annual Cúirt Festival will run from April 18 – 23 in Galway City, with over 50 events in a programme of poetry, fiction, theatre, memoir, masterclasses, exhibitions, and family events.

With new Festival Director Manuela Moser at the head, highlights of the programme include two former Laureates for Irish Fiction, Booker Prize-winner Anne Enright, and twice Costa Prize-winner, Sebastian Barry.

Also in the mix are Carmen Maria Machado (USA), author of the Folio Prize-winning memoir In the Dream House; Max Porter; Tara Bergin; Donal Ryan; Vona Groarke; Manchán Magan and Colette Bryce.

Manuela Moser, commented that, “This year Cúirt offers audiences new perspectives, and an opportunity to share a love of literature with the city and with each other.”

“After all, reading is both a solitary and shared act that can bring us closer and widen our appreciation of the world.”

“This idea is reflected in our poster, illustrated by artist Charlot Kristensen, which is an invitation to settle into a book and share the act of reading, and all that it encompasses – ideas, inspiration, conversation – with those around us.”

The Festival will also host a memorial event in honour of local poet, Kevin Higgins, who died last January.

Founder and co-organiser of the Over the Edge literary events in Galway, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, join Susan Millar DuMars and special guests to honour Kevin’s legacy.

This year’s edition of Cúirt will amplify established and emerging Irish voices, among them Emer McLysaght, co-author of the Aisling series; Wendy Erskine; Louise Kennedy(Novel of the Year 2022, An Post Irish Book Awards); Nicole Flattery; Seán Hewitt (Rooney Prize for Irish Literature), and many more.

The poetry line-up includes Pigott Prize-winning Colette Bryce, who will be reading alongside Sarah Clancy and Toby Buckley, in celebration of the landmark anthology Queering the Green: Post-2000 Queer Irish Poetry.

Galway-resident Eva Bourke will be reading with Forward Prize shortlisted Padraig Regan and Tara Bergin, who is shortlisted for the T. S. Eliot Prize.

The festival’s 2023 stage and screen offering includes an exclusive performance of Too Much of Nothing, a play by Mark O’Halloran and David Wilmot and directed by Andrew Flynn, performed in Galway’s renowned Tigh Neachtain pub.

Audiences will also get the chance to see films by Benjamin de Burca and Bárbara Wagner, while visual arts will be represented in talks by Meadhbh McNutt, Jan McCullough, Vanessa Earl and Áine O’Hara.

Festival favourites making a welcome return in 2023 include the New Writing Showcase, highlighting the best in new poetry and fiction.

Family-friendly events include Kid’s Story Hour in Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop on the Saturday and Sunday, including scéaltaí as Gaeilge with Irish language author Fearghas MacLochlainn.

That’s just a small taste of all that’s to come with the 2023 Cúirt Literary Festival in Galway next month. Look up the full programme and book your tickets now.

Planning sought for Kinvara housing estate

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March 14, 2023

Galway Daily news Planning sought for Kinvara housing estate

Planning permission is being sought from the county council for a residential development of 28 houses in Kinvara.

The application by Greengrass Developments is to build a housing estate at the east side of the village, on an undeveloped greenfield site.

The homes in the estate would comprise 16 three and four bedroom, semi-detached houses and 12 two and three bedroom, terraced houses.

A new entrance onto the L-4509 Gort Road will be created for the estate, and the developer also intends to add two pedestrian crossings to the road.

Two areas of landscaped open space have been included in the design, one featuring a semi-natural play area.

A total of 56 car parking spaces are included in the plans, 44 of which will be within the curtilage of houses, along with 14 public bicycles spaces.

A decision is due from Galway County Council on this planning application by April 20 of this year.

Free postcards in all post offices from today ahead of St. Patrick’s Day

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March 14, 2023

An Post is getting into the St Patrick’s Day spirit by providing free postcards to customers in every post office from today, which can be used to send love across the world with an international stamp this week.

The postcard’s striking design features illustrations from The Book of Kells, with Lá Fhéile Pádraig Sona Duit (Happy St. Patrick’s Day) emblazoned across the top.

Julie Gill, Commercial Marketing Director at An Post Mails and Parcels, said that St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration and the perfect opportunity to connect with people near and far.

“Our free postcards are a fantastic way to send a message from home to friends and family in Ireland and abroad,” she said.

An Post is also offering discounts on their packaging, so customers can send a piece of home with ease from over 900 post offices.

The postcards are also included with online orders from anpost.com/shop.

New food network to celebrate Galway’s culinary scene all year-round

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March 13, 2023

galway daily news blas na gaillimhe food network launch in galway city

A new food network has been created in Galway to celebrate and promote the year-round food scene and food stories of Galway.

Blas Na Gaillimhe – A Taste of Galway is an initiative set up by a small group of city restaurants and publicans with support from the county and city councils.

The hub will be an online space that showcases the very best of what Galway has on offer to eat, drink and stay when visiting Galway as well as the producers who supply the restaurants, cafés, and bars.

Food events, promotions, and the latest news can be accessed on one platform.

While the platform will provide information on year-round experiences and a point of reference for visitors to Galway, Blas Na Gaillimhe also plans to mark the month of May in a special way with Blas Na Bealtaine – A Taste of May.

Founding member, JP McMahon of Aniar and Cava Bodega, said they are looking for food service businesses of all sizes to get involved in showcasing what they offer and celebrate the best of Galway food and drink.

“The content created, the website listings and the information provided will leave a legacy that provides year-round information for visitors to the Galway food and drink scene,” said McMahon.

“We believe this food network can grow in future years and make the food scene a crucial component of the promotion of Galway as a tourism destination.”

The Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur said he hopes the food network will be a true reflection of Galway’s food and drinks diversity by having restaurants, cafés, pubs, hotels, producers, growers, and brewers on board.

“Hospitality in Galway consists of a team of skilful and creative people dedicated to delivering world-class products and experiences in the food, drink, hospitality and agricultural industry,” he said.

“If you would like to join our network and become part of the Blas Na Gaillimhe – A Taste of Galway food network please get in touch.”

Blas na Bealtaine will be a month-long celebration, in partnership with Galway City and Galway County Council, where the Blas Na Gaillimhe – A Taste of Galway network will present an exciting programme of events and experiences to celebrate the vibrant food and drink scene in the city and county featuring a programme of events.

The festival promises to have something for everyone from serious food enthusiasts to families of all ages.

Visitors can expect memorable meals, oyster tastings, farm visits, cheese-making demonstrations, seafood trails, distillery visits, foraging, beer masterclasses, coffee cupping, wine pairings, theatre, music, and much more.

There is an administration fee for a yearly membership of €125 for restaurants, pubs, cafés, and B&Bs; €65 for food producers and food trucks; while hotels and hostels’ membership is €250. Membership fees include VAT.

To get involved with Blas na Gaillimhe – A Taste of Galway and have your food business featured please visit www.atasteofgalway.com or email info@atasteofgalway.com.

Letter | “City Council car park plans are disappointing”

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March 13, 2023