University of Galway appoints new Traveller Education Officer

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March 13, 2023

€5.4 million Digital Innovation Hub to help boost SMEs in Galway

A €5.4 million European Digital Innovation Hub will help SMEs in Galway and the western region become more competitive.

The online Data2Sustain hub will help small business to adopt digital technologies to give them an edge.

The online hub, with €5.4 million in funding, will support regional SMEs in the north and west region over the next three years.

Businesses that engage these one-stop-shops for firms with digital challenges will be able to gain expertise on research and development in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Blockchain technologies.

They will also be able to access applied digital research, expertise and solutions from the region’s universities – including Atlantic Technological University and University of Galway.

Northern and Western Regional Assembly Director David Minton said, “This new hub, which will be called Data2Sustain, will support start-ups, SMEs and other businesses, as well as the public sector in their digital transformation.”

“It has a focus on circular economy, operations and sustainability areas, utilising AI, HPC and cybersecurity technological competence, with particular emphasis on data and data analytics–driven innovation and regard to energy consumption and low–carbon emissions.”

The EDIH will also be connected to a network of more than 200 similar hubs spread across the European Union.

“This means, for example, that a company in Connemara can avail of research in Denmark that might assist its business with a technology such as Blockchain or Robotics,” David Minton said.

In a report on the digitalisation of SMEs in Ireland, the European Investment Bank said the country had a two-speed digital economy with the divide most obvious in the Northern and Western region.

EDIHs combine the benefits of a regional presence with the opportunities available to a pan-European network that can exploit radical disruptions in advanced digital technologies.

SMEs and public sector agencies can access the hub through a region-wide network of contact points including Local Enterprise Offices, universities and Údarás na Gaeltachta.

Weather warning as further snow showers forecast

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March 13, 2023

Galway Daily weather Weather warning as further snow showers forecast

Met Eireann has issued yet another weather warning for the possibility of snow and ice in Galway on Monday night.

The Status Yellow Snow & Ice warning has been issued for all of Connacht, along with counties Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, and Westmeath.

“Wintry showers will lead to icy conditions in some areas tonight and on Tuesday morning,” Met Eireann has said.

The warning carries the possibility of hazardous driving conditions and slippery paths.

The weather warning will be in effect from 8pm on Monday night until midday on Tuesday.

Chow down on Galway’s finest this Mother’s Day

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March 13, 2023

Fully Treat the mother in your life this year by spending time with them as you will roam through the streets of Galway enjoying the best of food, drinks and company.

The Mother’s Day Brunch kicks off in the afternoon with Galway food Tours guiding you to six of Galway’s hottest eateries and watering holes.

From savoury to sweet and then a tipple of two, this afternoon will showcase how all Sundays should be spent!

1 of 4

Bring a friend, bring a girlfriend, treat your wife or someone who needs a day out.

The Mother’s Day Tour is happening on Sunday, March 19, beginning at McCambridges on Shop Street.

The tour is priced at €80. To book visit www.galwayfoodtours.com.

Three day roadworks to disrupt Athenry traffic

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March 13, 2023

Galway Daily news Traffic disruption expected from Galway City centre roadworks

Three days of roadworks will disrupt traffic in Athenry when they get underway this week.

The county council is carrying out resurfacing works at the junction of the R348 and L3123 roads at Prospect, Athenry.

The works are due to take three days to complete, from Tuesday, March 14 through to Thursday, March 16.

In order to facilitate these works, lane closures will be in place from 9:30am to 17:00pm each day.

A traffic management system will be in place to regulate motor traffic at the site of the roadworks during this time.

As a consequence users of this road are requested to expect delays and as such should allow additional time for their journeys.

The roadworks are being carried out by John Madden & Sons contractors on behalf of the county council.

Claregalway Primary Care Centre gets planning approval

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March 13, 2023

Galway Daily news Claregalway Primary Care Centre gets planning approval

Planning permission has been granted for the construction of a primary care centre in Claregalway.

Valley Healthcare, which is a sub fund of infrastructure investment fund ICAV, has been given the green light to build a two storey PCC on the west side of town.

The county council granted approval for this reduced scale proposal, after previously rejecting plans by Valley Healthcare for a development at this site.

This proposal is smaller than the part three storey building previously rejected, and has been reduced in height by more than 2.5m.

Planning permission was granted by the county council with 30 conditions attached, including a contribution of €21,127.50 which the developer must pay to the council towards the provision of public facilities serving the area.

The Primary Care Centre will be built on lands at the Montiagh Road, with a new access point for vehicles and pedestrians.

The council stipulated that a Stage 2 Road Safety Audit must be carried out before any works can begin, with any recommendations incorporated into the design.

A further Stage 3 Road Safety Audit must also be carried out after construction of the primary care centre is completed.

The primary care centre will have a retail pharmacy on the ground floor level, along with the consulting and treatment rooms.

The floor plans for the project show rooms dedicated for psychiatry, pediatrics, chronic disease management, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, psychology, physiotherapy.

The primary care centre will have a total of 73 car parking spaces, along with bicycle parking, and the developer also said that upgrade works will be carried out on the Montiagh Road to its junction with the N83.

The purpose of these upgrade works will be to widen the road’s carriageway, and to provice a continuous 1.8m wide footpath up to the N83.

Revenue issues fresh warning of scam impersonation calls

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March 13, 2023

Another warning has been issued of reports of phone call scammers impersonating someone from the Revenue to steal personal information.

Callers may ask for personal information or bank details while purporting to be from the Revenue.

Some of the scams can involve telling people that they are due a tax refund, or that a tax bill must be paid immediately in order to avoid a prosecution.

Scammers will also provide a variety of reasons why people need to give them their credit/debit card or bank details, the Revenue said in a statement.

“This person is not calling from Revenue. Revenue never asks customers to provide personal information via telephone calls or text messages.”

“Anyone who mistakenly provides personal information in response to these types of fraudulent phone calls should contact their bank or credit card company immediately and alert the Gardaí.”

“It is important to point out that these types of scams in no way involve Revenue’s systems or security.”

PBP Galway welcomes further application to Dublin Road BusConnects

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March 12, 2023

Galway Daily Public consultation on BusConnects project in Galway City

People Before Profit Galway has welcomed a further application to the Dublin Road BusConnects, but said that pedestrians, wheelchair users, and cyclists must be provided for first and foremost.

Galway City East Representative Denman Rooke commended the provision of more public transport options for Galway.

He said that in the midst of a worsening climate crisis, everything that can be done to help people reduce their car usage and get onto public transport is welcome.

“More buses, bus routes, and cheaper transport costs are a win-win for everyone,” he said.

But Rooke said we must also continue to ensure that we fundamentally change the hierarchy of transport from vehicles to people.

He said pedestrians require safe paths and crossing opportunities and wheelchair users deserve wide footpaths with no fear a vehicle will block their progress.

In addition to more bus routes and better cycling infrastructure, PBP Galway is calling for greater systemic solutions.

“We need to see the public transport being made free in Galway City for all, as well as facilitating active transport – that means more pedestrianisation, more cycleways, and less overall car demand,” added Mr Rooke.

“This will benefit not just us immediately but also our future generations. Additionally, pushing for a four-day working week and a 15-minute city will all aid in lowering our carbon emissions and local air pollution.”

Win big in this year’s Galway Hospice car raffle!

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March 12, 2023

Galway footballer Cillian McDaid attended the launch of this year’s Galway Hospice Car Raffle, along with Galway Hospice Community Palliative Care Nurse, Breeda Feeney and CEO, Mary Nash.

First prize in the raffle a 2023 Kia Riosupplied by Kia Renmore, while second prize is a family holiday to France for four people with Kelair Campotel, sponsored by Keller Travel, Ballinasloe.

Third prize this year is dinner for two at the g Hotel Galway.

The raffle started out in 2020 and has since raised vital funds to keep services running at the hospice.

Getting involved in this year’s car raffle is a fun and meaningful way to support Galway Hospice and those that rely on the care of their doctors, nurses, carers and therapists.

Cillian McDaid urged everyone who can to enter the Raffle and support your local hospice.

Tickets are just €10 each, three tickets for €20 or a booklet for €100.

For your chance to win big and support people who need hospice care, head to raffle.galwayhospice.ie or call fundraising on 091 770868.

Grants of up to €3,000 available to artists in Galway City

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March 12, 2023

Galway Daily news Grants available to community groups in Galway City affected by COVID

Galway City Council is inviting applications from artists and creative practitioners living in Galway City for funding to support their professional practice and development.

Artists working in the range of artistic disciplines are welcome to apply, including, visual culture, literature, contemporary film, music, dance, architecture, theatre and traditional arts.

Strand 1 invites applications up to €500 and Strand 2 from €501 to €3,000 and applicants may apply for Strand 1 one or Strand 2 only.

This fund supports the work of creative practitioners working to develop new works and nurture their creative and professional practices.

The application process is only and is available, along with guidelines, at www.galwaycity.ie/creativebursary.

The closing date for applications is 6 April 2023 at 4.00pm.

Those who are interested can contact arts@galwaycity.ie with any questions by including subject line “Creative Practitioners Bursary 2023 enquiry”.

Galway to host conference on migrants experiencing gender-based violence

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March 12, 2023

galway daily news gender based violence conerence galway migrants

A conference exploring the issues facing migrants experiencing gender-based violence, and the supports that are available to them will take place at the Harbour Hotel, Galway on Monday, 13 March from 10.30am to 4pm.

The event will hear from a range of speakers and panels, including a keynote address from CEO of Women’s Aid, Sarah Benson, who will discuss ‘a survivor-centred perspective on navigating domestic, sexual and gender-based violence systems and structures’.

There will be a panel discussion on the ‘experiences of migrants in addressing gender-based violence’, which will feature perspectives from migrant women who are survivors of gender-based violence.

The event will also feature an overview on current national policy and legal context by Ben Ryan, Head of Criminal Justice Policy, Department of Justice.

Commenting ahead of the conference, Brian Killoran, CEO of the Immigrant Council of Ireland said: “Migrant women experiencing gender-based violence face additional challenges that affect their ability to leave abusive relationships – including language and cultural barriers, lack of information, and concerns around visa-rights.

“As part of our upcoming conference, we are looking forward to discussing how migrants experiencing gender-based violence can be supported, and what barriers they are currently facing.

“In order for us to be able to adequately address these concerns, it is vital that migrant voices are at the centre of the conversation.”

The full event programme is available here.

Mind Body Experience announces events in Salthill

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March 11, 2023

galway daily news mind body experience event

The Galway Mind Body Experience has announced its 2023 event will be held at Leisureland Centre in Salthill on 15 and 16 April.

This free admission event includes over 70 exhibitors and 48 hours of complimentary talks, workshops, and yoga and meditation classes.

It promises to be a weekend to inspire, educate and entertain. Doors are open from 11:00 am to 7.00pm, and no tickets are required.

The event consists of four different elements all in one venue, the Mind Body Soul Expo, the Yoga and Meditation Festival, Live Well – Talks & Workshops, and the Galway Psychic Fair.

The Mind Body Soul Expo brings together a range of exhibitors, practitioners, and speakers from the world of holistic health and wellbeing from across Ireland and beyond.

The Yoga and Meditation Festival is a weekend of yoga, mindfulness, and meditation, offering complimentary yoga and meditation classes open to all. Both beginners and experienced yogi are welcome to explore a variety of workshops.

The Live Well – Talks & Workshops — a range of complimentary talks and workshops — will see a diverse set of presenters offer unique talks and workshops, all bringing an underlying focus on inspiring a healthier and happier you.

Galway Psychic & Holistic Fair, with its own private and dedicated area, is a must for all those interested and curious to explore the world of Psychic Readings, Mediumship, Palmistry, Crystal Ball, Angel, and Tarot cards.

More than 20 holistic therapists will offer mini treatments, advice and information at the festival.

For more information visit https://www.galwaymindbodyexperience.ie/galway-mind-body-experience

Aran Island Ferries joins tourism companies on Canadian sales mission

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March 11, 2023

galway daily news aran island ferries in canada for sales mission — Pictured in Ottawa, Ontario, on day two of Tourism Ireland’s sales mission to Canada are (l-r) Sandra Moffatt, Tourism Ireland; Cairell Ryan, Cliffs of Moher Experience; Aine McLoughlin, Aran Island Ferries; and Lauren Lamonday, Tourism Ireland. Pic – Shyam Photography

Aran Island Ferries joined a delegation of 23 tourism companies from Ireland and Canada on a four-city sales mission in Canada last week.

The delegation, together with Tourism Ireland, met with more than 300 Canadian travel agents in the cities of Ottawa, Montreal, London and Halifax.

The trip involved a networking event in each city, where the participating tourism companies from Ireland had the opportunity to meet and do business with Canadian travel professionals.

The Canadians were informed about the many things to see and do in Ireland, including outdoor adventure and experiences, the craic and warm welcome, and our rich culture.

The delegation also met with influential travel and lifestyle journalists and influencers at two media events, in Ottawa and Montreal.

Sandra Moffatt, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Canada, said the sales blitz provided an excellent platform to spread the word about the many things to see and do, and all that is new and exciting, on holiday in Ireland in 2023 and beyond.

“Travel agents and tour operators continue to be an important booking channel for Canadian holidaymakers, so a key element of our strategy is working closely with the travel trade, both online and offline,” she said.

“This sales mission was a fantastic opportunity for our tourism partners from Ireland to inform and influence these Canadian travel professionals about what Ireland has to offer and, importantly, to encourage them to include the destination in their future programmes and recommend it to their clients.”

In 2019, the island of Ireland welcomed 248,000 visitors from Canada, who spent €209 million during their time here.

Government criticised for pushing back farmer support scheme dates

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March 11, 2023

Galway Daily news €20.6 million in ANC payments issued to Galway farmers

Local TD Seán Canney has expressed his dismay that the Department of Agriculture is proposing to push back the payment dates for important agriculture support schemes to farmers.

The Independent TD said that in times of increased cost of doing business, it is ‘unbelievable’ the Department would even contemplate such a move.

He said it comes as farmers are grappling to keep their farming activities alive and are planning cash flow around these payments.

“I understand that the Department made the proposal at yesterday’s meeting of the Farmers’ Charter which would mean the payment dates of certain schemes would be pushed back by up to a month,” said the Galway East deputy.

“A proposal to hold back ANC payments by four weeks and set a new payment date of mid-October is an insult to farmers when they are expecting these payments in September at a critical time to the farm family and when there are so many demands on the farm and within the family household budget.”

Deputy Canney said that another proposal is to delay the BISS payment by one week which will also lead to ‘unnecessary hardship’ for farmers.

“Every week delay is adding pressure on the farming sector and the Department need to get their act together and stop playing games with farmers money, and which would be unacceptable in any sector of business. I ask the Minister to intercede and stop this nonsense.”

Gaeltacht host families get financial boost ahead of summer

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March 11, 2023

Galway Daily news Increased funding for Gaeltacht summer college accommodation providers

Irish college host families in the Gaeltacht can now accept a maximum of 16 students provided they have adequate space, the Minister of State for the Gaeltacht has announced.

A maximum number of 12 students per house had been in place under the scheme since 2014.

The change will result in an additional income of around €3,168 per year for host families, not including the fee paid by colleges to host families.

This measure is in addition to the previously announced increase of almost 20% in the daily grant payable under the Department’s scheme to host families.

Minister of State Patrick O’Donovan said he is delighted to be able to approve this practical measure for the benefit of both the scheme’s families and the Irish language colleges system.

“This change will not only enable qualifying households to generate additional income from providing additional accommodation, but it will also help the colleges themselves,” said the Minister.

“As a result of this measure both host families and colleges will be enabled to provide additional opportunities for the country’s youth to attend Irish language courses in the natural domain of the language, the Gaeltacht – which will of course be to the ultimate benefit of the Irish language as well as the Gaeltacht.”

From Monarch Butterflies to Mayan Ruins: Mexico’s Top Hiking Trails

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Angela Mc Bride

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March 11, 2023

Mexico is a land of diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and beautiful natural wonders. The country’s varied topography, ranging from rugged mountains to lush jungles, provides numerous opportunities for hiking enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, Mexico has plenty of trails to explore. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best hiking destinations in Mexico.

Exploring the Sierra Norte Mountains

The Sierra Norte Mountains in Oaxaca are an outdoor lover’s paradise. The region boasts a network of hiking trails that wind through scenic valleys, past cascading waterfalls, and up to breathtaking mountaintops. One of the most popular trails in the region is the Pueblos Mancomunados, a network of interconnected paths that link eight mountain communities. The trail is well-marked and features various campsites along the way, allowing hikers to spend several days exploring the area.

Discovering the Copper Canyon

The Copper Canyon, located in the state of Chihuahua, is a vast network of canyons and valleys that is larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon. The region features several hiking trails that range from easy walks to challenging treks. The Urique Canyon Trail is one of the most popular routes in the area, taking hikers through spectacular scenery, including waterfalls, hot springs, and a variety of wildlife.

Ascending the Iztaccihuatl Volcano

The Iztaccihuatl Volcano, located near Mexico City, is one of the highest peaks in Mexico, standing at over 17,000 feet tall. While climbing the summit is a challenging feat that requires experience and preparation, the lower slopes of the mountain offer excellent hiking opportunities. The La Joya Trail is a popular route that takes hikers through beautiful alpine meadows and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve

The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, located in the state of Michoacán, is a unique natural wonder that is home to millions of monarch butterflies. The reserve features several hiking trails that take visitors through the butterfly’s wintering grounds, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The trails range in difficulty, making it accessible to hikers of all levels.

Exploring the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula, located in southeastern Mexico, is known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. However, the region also features a network of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore its lush jungles, ancient Mayan ruins, and underground rivers. The Coba Ruins Trail is a popular route that takes hikers through the jungle to the ancient Mayan city of Coba. Along the way, hikers can explore ancient temples and pyramids and learn about the rich history of the Mayan civilization. Visitors who plan to hike the Yucatan Peninsula will require the Visitax Cancun, a Quintana Roo travel tax for their journey.

In conclusion, Mexico offers a wealth of hiking opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From the rugged mountains of Oaxaca to the stunning canyons of Chihuahua and the lush jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery to explore. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, Mexico’s diverse landscapes offer something for everyone. So, pack your hiking boots, grab your backpack, and get ready to explore the natural wonders of Mexico.

Kenny family presents cheque for €40,500 to UHG

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March 11, 2023

galway daily news cheque presentation to uhg

A very generous donation of €40,500 was recently presented to the Intensive Care Unit and the Patient Comfort Fund at University Hospital Galway (UHG) in memory of the late Mary Kenny from Loughrea.

In addition, €5,000 was donated to Strange Boat Donor Foundation – The National Organ Donor Commemorative Garden (Circle of Life) located in Galway, and €2,000 to Quest Brain Injury Services, Galway.

The cheque was presented to the Intensive Care Unit and the Patient Comfort Fund, by John and Isabelle Kenny – husband and daughter of the late Mary Kenny.

The funds were raised through activities which included a GoFundMe page and a coffee morning bonanza at the Willow Café in conjunction with The Woodford Garden Centre.

An evening of music was held in Carton House, as well as a raffle and spot prizes sponsored by local businesses. Finally, 20 brave individuals ‘Jumped for Mary’ by participating in a skydive.

John and Isabelle Kenny expressed their gratitude and thanked the doctors and nurses who cared for Mary in her final days.

“The medical and nursing team supported us to make the final decision to entrust Mary to the angels and to donate Mary’s organs, saving three people’s lives. To this dedicated, professional, supportive and compassionate team – from our family to yours we say a heartfelt thank you.”

Gillian Shanahan, Organ Donation Nurse Manager, said: “We are forever humbled by organ donors and their families who find the strength in their depths of grief, to give the gift of life.

“On behalf of myself and the team at University Hospital Galway we would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those involved for their time and efforts in raising this substantial amount. The money will be used to improve the comfort and experience of patients and their families during their stay in the Intensive Care Unit.”

Connacht Rugby signs Leicester’s Sean Jansen in two year deal

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March 10, 2023

Galway Daily rugby The Sportsground to be renamed Dexcom Stadium in partnership deal — Photo: INPHO/Connacht Rugby

Connacht Rugby have announced that Sean Jansen has signed a two year deal with the province, moving from the Leicester Tigers.

The 23 year old Number 8, who is originally from New Zealand, also qualified for Ireland through his grandparents who were born in Monasterevin and Belfast.

Sean said that he is excited to be moving to Connacht, and praised the dedication of the fans.

“The prospect of playing in the URC and in front of such a passionate fanbase is one that really appeals to me.”

“I’ve heard nothing but good things about the people there, so I can’t wait to make the move over in the summer and do my bit to help the club succeed in the years ahead.”

Jansen has scored 5 tries for Leicester since joining in early 2022, and has made 3 appearances so far in this season’s Heineken Champions Cup.

He has featured 15 times for the club, predominately at number 8 but can also play across the back row.

Having grown up in New Zealand, Jansen attended Otago Boys High and played junior rugby with North Island RFC, representing North Otago.

In 2021, prior to joining the Leicester Tigers, he was named Otago’s Development Forward of the Year.

Commenting on the signing, Head Coach Pete Wilkins said that they had been tracking Sean career in provincial rugby back in New Zealand.

“The growth we have seen in his game since joining Leicester Tigers made it clear to us how much value he could add to our back row.”

“He brings enormous physicality in every game he plays. He carries and tackles hard, and his physical profile gives us something a bit different in that position.”

“I’m delighted that he has chosen to join us and we look forward to him making a big impact next season.”

Galway winner claims €50,000 in prize bonds draw

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March 10, 2023

Galway Daily news Galway winner claims €50,000 in prize bonds draw

One lucky individual in Galway has gotten a welcome €50,000 surprise to kick off the weekend in today’s Prize Bonds draw.

Prize Bonds are a State Savings product which, instead of paying interest, offers bond holders the chance to win cash prizes every week.

The lucky Galway owner won their €50,000 prize with a bond purchased in 2018 with the number ALK452954.

There are a total of 214 prizes going to Prize Bond holders in Galway this week.

Along with the €50k star prize, another person won €1,000 with the bond ASX590998, and a €500 prize came off the bond ACD415805.

On top of the weekly draws with a grand prize of €50,000 up for grabs, there are also four special draws each year with a top prize of €250,000.

All winnings are tax-free, and Prize Bonds can be cashed in at any time after the minimum holding period of three months.

Founded in 1957, the Prize Bonds draw is Ireland’s longest running prize draw.

A total of €302,600 in prizes were won by 4,773 people in this Friday’s draw. There were a total of 10 winners of the €1,000 prize, and another 10 €500 prize winners.

Secrets lives, Sabotage and Spy Cameras in Ros na Rún

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March 10, 2023