Grealish reads email in Dáil from man (35) about to emigrate due to ‘housing disaster’

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February 17, 2023

galway daily news first surgery for blocked oesophagus at galway university hospitals — From Left, Máire Cooper, Theatre Staff Nurse; Noreen Keelan, Senior Anaesthetic Staff Nurse; Paul Carroll, Consultant Oesophagogastric and General Surgeon; Ashitosh Waidande, CNM 2, GI Theatre; and Deirdre Hoade, Senior Staff Nurse, Theatre.

Galway University Hospitals (GUH) has become the first hospital in Ireland to introduce an ‘incisionless’ minimally invasive surgery to help correct blockages of the oesophagus.

Achalasia is a rare condition which causes a blockage in the muscles of the lower oesophagus which causes difficulty in swallowing.

The procedure was carried out by Mr Paul Carroll who specialises in minimally invasive surgery and endoscopic surgery for oesophago-gastric cancer and benign disease.

Traditionally, treatment of achalasia divides the muscles of the lower oesophagus through several small incisions in the abdomen.

However, surgeons in GUH have now undertaken an incisionless procedure using Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM).

POEM uses a narrow flexible tube with a camera, to breach the lining of the oesophagus.

This tube is inserted through the mouth and can be positioned into the space between the oesophageal lining and the muscles. The breach is then closed with special clips.

One of the significant benefits of this procedure is the ability to treat a subtype of achalasia with chest pain.

Patients are discharged the following morning without pain and with resolution of symptoms.

Mr Paul Carroll, Consultant Oesophagogastric and General Surgeon at Galway University Hospitals, thanked his team for their support in bringing the procedure to Irish patients.

“I am personally delighted that I have been able to introduce this procedure into Ireland for treatment of this disease process,” said Mr Carroll.

“It would not have been possible without the support and training I received whilst on fellowship in the University of Toronto and finally without the unwavering support of the late Marie Farragher, Clinical Nurse Manager in theatre and her team of nurses for pushing boundaries with me.”

Chris Kane, General Manager of Galway University Hospitals also praised the innovation.

“These innovations focus on and enhance the patient experience. They improve care and treatment options for all our communities and we are delighted to add this innovative surgery at GUH.”

Government urged to introduce spring bonus for social welfare

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February 17, 2023

Galway Daily news Fewer than 4,000 remain on pandemic unemployment in Galway

Claire Kerrane TD has urged the government to introduce a spring bonus for those relying on working age social welfare payments.

The government is expected to make an announcement on extra supports next week – double welfare payments could be announced on Tuesday.

Deputy Kerrane said that a spring bonus payment would provide much-needed support to hard-pressed households struggling with the cost of living crisis.

The Roscommon-Galway TD said that the cost of living is sky-high and households are struggling with record energy bills, rising food costs and increased mortgage repayments.

The TD accused the government of “flying kites” about introducing possible measures next week, while An Tanaiste Micheál Martin this week accused Sinn Féin of playing “clever politics” in relation to the issue.

Kerrane said: “We know from past experience that when this government acts they do too little, too late.”

“We need to see the government deliver for people who need support now.”

Fund of over €500k approved for schools to employ Irish language assistants

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February 17, 2023

galway daily news scoil bhide language assistant scheme

A fund worth over half a million euro has been approved today for language assistants in schools in Gaeltacht service towns and Irish Language Networks.

Five schools in Galway City have already had a language plan approved under the scheme: Coláiste na Coiribe, Scoil Fhursa, Scoil Bhride, Scoil Iognáid agus Gaelscoil Dara.

The additional funding announced today means more schools will be able to employ a language assistant as part of the language planning process.

Glór na nGael will be responsible for administering the Language Assistants’ Scheme on behalf of the Department of the Gaeltacht.

Up to 27 schools that operate through Irish could benefit from the measure, and approximately 25 language assistants are expected to be employed when the scheme is in full swing.

Lorcán Mac Gabhann, Head of Glór na nGael, said that this scheme will definitely have a positive impact on the development of the language in the participating schools.

“It will be a great and valuable advantage for the communities in the Gaeltacht service towns and the Irish Language Networks. We look forward to working with the community committees, schools, parents and principals in these areas,” he said.

“This is another part of the language planning that connects with other Glór na nGael schemes such as Fondúireacht Sheosaimh Mhic Dhonncha, Céimeanna, Gradaim Gnó na hÉireann, Teanga Tí agus Comórtas Náisiúnta Ghlór na nGael.”

Three changes to Connacht squad for Zebre away game

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February 17, 2023

Galway Daily sport Connacht squad named for Edinburgh trip — photo credit: ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy

Three changes have been made to the Connacht side that will face Zebre this weekend in Italy.

Connacht are headed to Parma to face Zebre RFC at Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi this Saturday, with kick-off at 3:05pm Irish time.

Head Coach Pete Wilkins has stuck with the majority of the side that enjoyed a bonus-point win over the Emirates Lions, including the same set of backs led by captain Jack Carty.

In the pack Josh Murphy moves from the back row to second row, where he’s joined by Niall Murray who wins his 50^thcap. Buckley and Tierney-Martin are named at loosehead prop and hooker respectively,

Cian Prendergast and Caolin Blade come into the starting squad after being released from Ireland camp, while there’s a potential debut off the bench for hooker Eoin de Buitléar.

Commenting on the team selection, Director of Rugby Andy Friend says, “Everyone enjoyed a well-earned break after the Lions game, and now it’s all about getting back to work and playing our best rugby.”

“We travel to Italy conscious that we’ll be up against a good Zebre side eager to get their first win of the season, but also confident that we can get the job done if we play to our abilities.”

CONNACHT RUGBY MATCHDAY 23 VS ZEBRE PARMA

Saturday 18^th February, 15:05 Irish time @ Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi

Number/Name/Caps

15. Tiernan O’Halloran (218)
14.Diarmuid Kilgallen (14)
13. Tom Farrell (93)
12. Cathal Forde (8)
11. John Porch (73)
10. Jack Carty (193) (C)
9. Caolin Blade (167)
1. Denis Buckley (224)
2. Dylan Tierney-Martin (16)
3. Jack Aungier (44)
4. Josh Murphy (12)
5. Niall Murray (49)
6. Cian Prendergast (39)
7. Conor Oliver (56)
8. Jarrad Butler (108)

16. Eoin de Buitléar *
17. Jordan Duggan (35)
18. Sam Illo (7)
19. Darragh Murray (6)
20. Shamus Hurley-Langton (13)
21. Kieran Marmion (225)
22. Tom Daly (74)
23. Adam Byrne (5)

Engineering works disrupting regular Galway train services this weekend

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February 17, 2023

Some disruption is expected to train services between Galway and Dublin this weekend, with bus transfers and limited cancellations.

Irish Rail is carrying out engineering works on the line between Sallins and Kildare this Saturday & Sunday, which will affect regularly scheduled services.

One evening train tomorrow has been cancelled, while multiple others will be running bus transfers at different locations.

On Saturday, service disruptions will mostly be confined to the evening time, while on Sunday it is morning trains which have been affected by the works.

Saturday, February 18

17:30 Heuston to Galway will be bus transfers from Heuston to Tullamore and Athlone, second bus transfer from Heuston to Clara and Athlone, third bus transfer from Portarlington to Tullamore and Athlone, train at 19:45hrs from Athlone to Galway
18:30 Heuston to Galway is cancelled
19:35 Heuston to Galway will be bus transfers direct from Heuston to Athlone, second bus transfer from Heuston to Tullamore and Athlone, third bus transfer from Portarlington to Tullamore and Athlone, train at 21:35hrs from Athlone to Galway
17:20 Galway to Heuston will operate to Athlone only, bus transfers direct from Athlone to Heuston, second bus transfer from Athlone to Portarlington and Heuston, third bus transfer from Athlone to Tullamore, Portarlington, Kildare, Newbridge and Heuston
19:20 Galway to Heuston will operate to Athlone only, bus transfers direct from Athlone to Heuston, second bus transfer from Athlone to Portarlington and Heuston, third bus transfer from Athlone to Clara, Tullamore, Portarlington and Heuston

Sunday, February 19

08:00 Heuston to Galway will be bus transfers from Heuston to Kildare and Portarlington, train at 09:15hrs from Portarlington to Galway
11:00 Galway to Heuston is deferred to 11:25hrs

Inland Fisheries Ireland seeking recruits to patrol waterways

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February 17, 2023

Galway Daily news Inland Fisheries Ireland seeking recruits to patrol waterways

Inland Fisheries Ireland is seeking to recruit seasonal officers to patrol and watch over waterways in Galway during the summer.

Seasonal Fisheries Officers will join teams over the summer months to help protect, conserve and develop fisheries resources working in and around Ireland’s lakes, rivers and coastlines.

The agency is seeking to recruit a total of 36 Seasonal Fisheries Officers for six month periods, which will cover 15 counties.

“Our new Seasonal Fisheries Officers will be joining us to help protect, maintain and conserve this country’s natural resources,” said Róisín Bradley, HR Director at IFI.

“As an environmental agency, enforcement, protection and development are a big focus for us. Our teams undertake over 30,000 patrols around the clock every year, including patrols by foot, e-bike, vehicle and boat.”

“At the same time, our development teams ensure the sustainability of fisheries habitat, enabling access for this generation and for future generations.”

Fisheries Officers assigned to protection will spend a lot of time patrolling lakes and rivers to check for illegal fishing, pollution, prosecute offenders, and more.

Those Officers working in conservation will work in improving habitats, carrying out surveys, and assess fish stocks among other duties.

“Those that enjoy being close to nature and working outdoors, in all types of weather, are likely to find these roles very appealing and rewarding,” Róisín Bradley said.

The agency also plans to launch a second recruitment drive for Seasonal Research Assistants.

The deadline for applications for a six-month Seasonal Fisheries Officer role is Tuesday, February 21, and applications can be made online at www.fisheriesireland.ie/careers.

Cash grants for Galway companies and community groups available in February

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February 17, 2023

Galway Daily news Last call for Galway companies and community groups in €1,000 grant scheme

Cash grants of €1,000 are available in Galway under the RISE Community Fund this month, for digital projects that will help local communities.

The fund, which is supported by National Broadband Ireland (NBI), is open to small businesses, farms, community groups and social enterprises.

Established by NBI Chairman and technology entrepreneur, David McCourt, RISE is providing monthly grants across the country to give an immediate cash injection into local communities seeking to boost their digital ecosystems.

For those in Galway, applications for the grants opened at the start of the month, and will close on February 28.

Up to five grants of €1000 will be available in February to successful applicants across the county. Guidelines and application forms are available at www.riseglobalfoundation.com.

David McCourt said that they are calling on all interested parties to submit their plans for using technology in “creative and entrepreneurial” ways.

“We know there are some amazing people doing extraordinary things to bring value to their local communities, and we’re hoping to accelerate and scale their ambitions with the support of these grants.”

The RISE Community Fund was established in early 2022, with monthly cash grants available in different counties across Ireland to empower people’s plans to use technology.

“The application process has been made incredibly quick and easy, and successful applicants will be notified by early March, with money following in quick succession.”

We can’t wait to see the entrepreneurial ideas from Galway,” said Orla O’Malley, Programme Director at RISE.

Last year saw the Spanish investment management firm Asterion Industrial Partners acquire a majority stake in NBI.

The government consented to the company buying an 80% stake in NBI last July, and the deal went through in November.

In Galway, there are approximately 40,000 premises which will be connected under the National Broadband Plan, which includes homes, farms, commercial businesses and schools.

Under the plan, County Galway will see an investment of €153M in the new high speed fibre network.

Expleo creating 70 jobs in Galway with new regional hub

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February 17, 2023

Galway Daily business Expleo creating 70 jobs in Galway with new regional hub

Technology company Expleo has some welcome news for Galway with the announcement of 70 new jobs being created here.

The global technology, engineering and consulting service provider has announced the opening of a new innovation hub here in Galway.

Expleo has also announced that it will be investing €5 million in expanding its life sciences and engineering R&D divisions to be headquartered here.

Both of these new additions will based out of Galway Technology Centre in Mervue, and it is expected that the 70 new jobs will be filled out by the end of 2024.

Phil Codd, Managing Director, Expleo Ireland, said, “We are delighted to be continuing our regional expansion plans with the opening of our Galway hub.”

“As Expleo continues to go from strength to strength on the island of Ireland, these hubs will provide us with the talent and momentum we need to deliver on our ambitious growth plans.”

Along with the 200 new jobs the company announced last June, this latest addition will bring Expleo’s total workforce in Ireland up to 1,000 people.

Expleo’s life sciences division focuses on product development for the medtech and pharmaceutical sectors, while the engineering team is focused on automation.

The jobs created will be in the areas of mechanical, electrical and digital engineering, as well as business consulting and software development and testing.

Teams located in Galway, and those working in client sites located in the West of Ireland, will be carrying out work on behalf of international clients who are based in Ireland.

“Our new hub in Galway will provide cutting-edge services to businesses operating in the life sciences, software and automotive industries, helping them to innovate at speed and scale.”

“Galway’s economy is thriving, and we are excited to be a part of it while also contributing to its growth,” Phil Codd said.

This will be the second of a series of regional office hubs announced by Expleo, the first of which opened at Mahon, Cork in 2022.

Planning approval for Spiddal housing development

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February 17, 2023

Galway Daily news Planning appeal over 91 houses & apartments in Athenry

Planning permission has been granted by the county council for a housing development on the north side of Spiddal Village.

Hyman Properties Ltd has been given approval for the construction of 15 houses on the Baile Árd road.

The eight semi-detached and seven terraced houses will be built at the existing Ard na Speire development.

In order to comply with Part V planning law requirements, two semi-detached houses will be transferred to the county council for social or affordable housing.

The plans also include two landscaped green areas located to the north and south west ends of the site.

A Linguistic Impact Statement was submitted after the council requested it, as this development is located within the Gaeltacht.

It confirmed that three houses in the estate shall be reserved for Irish speaking members of the community.

Planning permission for the project was ultimately granted by the county council with 32 conditions attached.

Condition No. 13 stipulated that a minimum of 80% of the houses permitted shall be restricted to those who can “demonstrate the ability to preserve and culture of the Gaeltacht” for a period of 15 years, unless otherwise agreed with the council.

All of the houses are also restricted to individual buyers in the first instance, with bulk purchases by corporate entities not allowed.

The developer must also pay a contribution of €59,896.05 to the county council towards the provision of services and facilities for the area.

Massive increase in theft of imported second-hand cars

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February 17, 2023

Galway Daily news Six people hospitalised after crash in Connemara — SAMSUNG

There was a massive increase in the number of cars stolen last year, particularly among second-hand imported cars.

Over 4,000 vehicles were reported stolen in Ireland last year, an increase of 52% on 2021, which Gardaí say is driven by the theft of imported, second hand cars from outside the European market.

This trend, according to An Garda Síochána, may be traced to the fact that the most commonly stolen models lack security features.

For instance, many second-hand car imports do not have a fully fitted car alarm system or are without a fitted immobiliser. This makes them vulnerable to hot-wiring.

If the model has a keyless ignition it has proven possible to pick up a signal from the key fob from within the house where it is parked.

Sergeant Mark Bolger, Garda National Crime Prevention Office, said, “Car theft especially that of second-hand imported vehicles is on the rise.

“Cars imported from international markets are not automatically manufactured with the same security features as cars manufactured for the European market.”

“We urge buyers and owners of vehicles to confirm the security features of import vehicles, especially to check if there is an in-built immobiliser and to consider additional security options.”

He said that people who own, or who are going to buy a car, can take steps to try and ensure its safety.

Safety advice:

Buyers should check the security features of their vehicles and make decisions relating to augmenting security.
For cars without an immobiliser, additional steering wheel lock or chain should be considered.

General vehicle security advice:

Do not leave valuables on show
Lock doors and fully close windows
Fit an alarm
Retrofit an Immobiliser or use a physical lock
Install a tracker
Use physical security features such as a steering wheel lock and catalytic convertor lock
Fit theft-resistant number plate fittings
Park under streetlights
Park where there is CCTV when possible

Galway Sports Partnership allocated €350,000 for 2023

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February 16, 2023

Galway Daily sport Galway Sports Partnership allocated €350,000 for 2023

Galway Sports Partnership has been allocated a total of just under €350,000 for its costs, accessibility, and sports programming in 2023.

Sports Ireland has this week announced €26 million in funding for National Governing Bodies for Sport (NGBs) and to the network of Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs) for 2023.

In total, €10,365,000 is being allocated to 29 Local Sports Partnerships, with an emphasis placed on human resourcing.

Additional funding has been provided for LSPs Development Officers and Sport Inclusion Disability Officers to continue making local sports more accessible to all.

Galway Sports Partnership will receive €266,458 for staff and operational costs, another €65,500 for programme funding, and €10,000 for women in sport.

Age & Opportunity will receive €620,000 for their “Go for Life” programme, while Cara Sport Inclusion Ireland will receive €140,000 for Disability Awareness and Disability Inclusion programmes.

Chief Executive of Sport Ireland, Una May, commented, “The Core Grant Funding will enable Sport Ireland to further support our National Governing Bodies of Sport and Local Sports Partnerships to provide equal opportunities in sport for everyone.”

“This investment through the NGBs and LSPs will play an important part in increasing activity levels of people in Sport in Ireland and removing the barriers and preventative aspects for getting involved in sport.”

From the €26 million package, the larger share of €16 million will go to national governing bodies for sports in Ireland, an increase of €1 million on last year’s funding.

This 6% increase in what NGBs are receiving compared with 2022 is an acknowledgement of the rising costs of administration, and also provides a cost-of-living boost.

Minister of State for Sport and Physical Education Thomas Byrne said, “This significant funding package will support the implementation of important programmes and activities through the National Governing Bodies of Sport and the Local Sports Partnerships in 2023.”

“Cost of living pressures are having an impact across the sector and the increased funding announced today, allied to the significant cost of energy supports provided by Government, will ensure that sports clubs across the country are supported in addressing the challenge of rising costs.”

A full breakdown of the allocation of funding to different sports bodies can be found in the 2023 Core Funding Brochure from Sports Ireland.

Green light given for Tuam housing development

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February 16, 2023

Galway daily news Knocknacarra social housing

Galway County Council has given the green light for the construction of a residential development of 27 houses on the south side of Tuam town.

Limekin Construction has received planning permission for a housing estate on land next to the existing Tir an Choir estate, off Barrack Street.

The estate will comprise a mix of two and three bedroom terraced and semi-detached houses.

Five of these will be sold to the council to comply with Part V planning requirements for social or affordable housing.

Planning permission was granted for the residential development by the county council with a total of 18 conditions attached.

One condition stipulated that all of the houses in the estate may only be sold to individual buyers, rather than bulk purchased by corporate entities.

The developer must also pay a contribution of €80,604 to the county council towards the provision of public facilities serving the area.

The council planning inspector noted that the site comprises the last remaining “derelict/redundant” lands within the larger Tir na Choir residential area, and that completing the site would enhance the overall area.

Revised parking layouts, along with a Road Safety Audit and a letter from Irish Water confirming the feasibility of connecting to the public water and sewage system were submitted after a request for further information from the council.

Ros na Rún headed for 2,000th episode milestone

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February 16, 2023

RnaR-9970 — Gráinne Bleasdale, Gearóid Ó Ciobháin and Caitriona Ní Dhomhnaill pictured at TG4’s Ros na Rún Wrap Party in the Connemara Coast Hotel celebrating Season 27. Photo Martina Regan

TG4’s Irish language soap opera Ros na Rún is going to hit a milestone in television history next month as it passes 2,000 episodes.

Filming for the 27th season of Ros na Rún wrapped up on the dedicated set in An Spideál last week, with the cast and crew celebrating another successful year.

The current series of the rural based drama will continue to be broadcast on TG4 and will come to an explosive climax on June 15.

But before that, Ros na Rún will hit its 2,000th episode on March 16 during Seachtain na Gaeilge.

It’s been quite the rollercoaster of emotions and storylines throughout Season 27, with property drama, betrayals and romance, and the literal digging up of old skeletons.

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The uncovery of Caitriona’s uncles’ remains on Sonny’s site has sent her ego to dizzying heights, and is about to leave her homeless, not to mention costing her the respect of her daughter.

Life is never without drama for Caitriona, but has she turned everyone against herself this time, even Meabh?

Viewers are keenly following Sonia, Mack and Sam. Is Vera right that Sam is looking for his mother’s attention more and more by rebelling and playing truant.

Is stealing from an Siopa the start of Sam’s rebellious chapter. How will Sonia cope as a single mum?

Will Mack be there to support her or is Rory about to push Mack’s buttons and reveal his growing “coke” habit.

Will Sorcha and Greg regret having betrayed Michelle’s friendship and loyalty to the degree they have? Or will there be any lesson for the thieving duo at all?

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That’s just a taste of the drama and intrigue that has been tantalising viewers all season, and it’s far from over yet.

There’s plenty of surprises in store for viewers in the weeks to come, including the return of some long lost Ros na Rún faces.

Ros na Rún is sponsored by XL Ireland and is co-production between Tyrone Productions in Dublin and Danú Media in Connemara for TG4.

Employing 160 people when filming on the purpose built set at Ros na Rún in an Spidéal, Ros na Rún is the largest independent artistic and TV production outside of Dublin.

Stay tuned Tuesday and Thursday 8:30pm on TG4, with the omnibus on Sunday at 7:30pm, for what has proven to be another vibrant series of Ros na Rún.

The village of secrets will continue to keep viewers entertained and enthralled with drama and serious life challenges, many of which are speckled with comedy.

Plans for Oranmore Padel courts knocked back

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February 16, 2023

Galway Daily sport Plans for Oranmore Padel courts knocked back — Photo: Oliver Sjostrom via Pexels

Plans to open a new Padel Club in Oranmore have been knocked back, with the lands deemed unsuitable for the sports facilities.

Galway Padel Club sought approval from the county council to build five Padel courts at Deerpark Industrial Estate, Oranmore.

The plans also included changing rooms and sanitary facilities, a manager’s office, along with car and bicycle parking.

However, the council has refused planning permission for the sports facility, due to the land use zoning in the industrial estate.

The decision noted that these lands are zoned Industrial, “where Recreational/Leisure uses are not normally permitted”.

As it would be contrary to objectives of the Metropolitan Strategic Area Plan for Oranmore, allowing the sports facilities would be “contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area”, the decision states.

Padel is a racket sport which has grown in popularity recently, played in doubles using solid rackets, on an enclosed court.

Galway lotto players claimed €21 million in high-tier prizes since 2020

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February 16, 2023

galway daily news Galway lotto players claim €21 million in high-tier prizes since 2020

Galway lotto players have together taken home more than €21 million in high-tier prizes in the past three years.

Figures from the National Lottery show that there have been 52 winners of high-tier Lotto prizes in Galway since the start of 2020, including six new millionaires.

This is according to the National Lottery ‘high tier prizes report’ which captures all draw based game prize wins (Lotto, EuroMillions, Daily Million, Telly Bingo & Millionaire Raffle).

This covers prizes in excess of €15,000 for regular tickets, or €10,000 for online players, from January 2020 until January 2023.

High-tier prize earnings in Galway during that period came to a total of €21,481,878, with the largest single prize being a whopping €7.3 million jackpot in April of 2020.

Other massive prizes in Galway during the last three years include a syndicate of street cleaners who won €5.5 million last August, and another syndicate which claimed €2.5 million in July of 2021.

Over the past three years, there have been 102 new Lotto millionaires in Ireland, with over 1,100 players sharing over €470 million alone in high tier prizes.

Since 2020, Dublin has unsurprisingly topped the charts for National Lottery wins with over €68 million paid out to 275 players, 22 of which won prizes in excess of €1 million.

In the last three years, ten separate millionaires were made in Co. Cork while Galway and Mayo have had six new millionaires each.

Mayo’s biggest winners include the record-breaking Lotto jackpot win of €19.06 million which was claimed by a Mayo family syndicate in January 2021.

Online players continued to win big for the past three years also with 194 winners claiming over €95 million in high tier prizes.

Included in these winners were 17 brand new millionaires, the biggest of which was a Dublin player who scooped a EuroMillions jackpot worth €49.5 million in July 2020.

Body, Bodies, Embodied – Intimate exhibition at 126 Artist-Run Gallery

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February 16, 2023

126 Artist-Run Gallery in Galway City is delighted to present the public with Body, Bodies, Embodied, a duo show by artists Day Magee and Dónal Talbot featuring an intimate exploration of queer identity.

‘The body is a vessel …of sorts’ – so begins and ends a poem by Dónal Talbot which encapsulates some of what the two artists are achieving here, using the body as a medium to express different aspects of identity.

For Body, Bodies, Embodied, two young artists come together to represent a spectrum of intimate and extroverted expressions of the queer self.

Magee and Talbot take the concept of ‘body’ and imbue their musings and convictions into an exhibition that is both in conversation and in contrast with itself.

Talbot captures everyday life for queer individuals through photographic mediums and poetry, and Magee expresses narrativisations of queerness and disability through performance work, lens-based images, words, and mixed media with AI experimentation.

Their explorations firmly situate this show within the wider embrace of 126 Gallery’s 2023 Visual Arts Programme ‘Alchemical Vessels’.

The exhibit, curated by Mary McGraw and Méabh Noonan, will run at 126 Gallery until February 26, and is open to the public from 12pm – 6pm, Monday – Sunday.

The Artists

Day Magee is a performance-centred multimedia artist and writer based in Dublin, whose work has taken them across Ireland and abroad.

They have performed since 2011 as part of Livestock and the Dublin Live Art Festival, and graduated from Limerick School of Art and Design in Sculpture & Combined Media in 2021.

By their penultimate year they had exhibited as part of TULCA Festival here in Galway, and taken part group shows across Ireland and abroad,

They were also nominated for the Future Generation Art Prize 2020, its Irish partner platform Pallas Projects/ Studios, and shortlisted for the RDS Visual Arts Awards.

Magee’s work concerns the induction and enactment of temporality and subjectivity via bodily vectors, and the lived mythographies of selfhood – the stories we tell ourselves about ourselves as simultaneously lived out.

Dónal Talbot is an artist and photographer based in Dublin whose work is predominantly based in portraiture.

He uses its intimate qualities to showcase and empower the LGBTQ+ community through representation in art.

Often employing a soft lens, Talbot’s work hopes to capture his subjects in natural light with unedited backgrounds in the hopes of capturing a real and honest depiction of everyday life.

Talbot graduated from the National College of Art and Design in 2017, and has since been featured in i-D Magazine, The Face and exhibited in the Belfast Photo Festival.

His work was recently published in the photo book ‘New Queer Photography’, alongside a selection of 40 other international LGBTQ+ artists.

Style Guide: Dressing for a Day at the Races

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Angela Mc Bride

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February 16, 2023

A day at the races is one of the most glamorous events of the year, and with all of the best racing festivals still ahead of us in 2023 including Cheltenham, Fairyhouse Easter Festival, and of course, Galway Racing Festival. For many women, it’s the perfect opportunity to dress up and show off their style. From stunning hats to flowing dresses, the fashion on display is always a highlight of the event.

Dress code

When it comes to dressing for a day at the races, it’s important to remember that the dress code can vary depending on the event. Some races may require a more formal attire, while others may be more relaxed. Be sure to check the dress code before you start planning your outfit, so you can make sure you’re dressed appropriately.

Outfit planning

Once you know the dress code, it’s time to start thinking about your outfit. A classic option is a flowing sundress, paired with a stylish hat and a pair of heels. A sundress is the perfect choice for a day at the races because it’s comfortable, feminine, and stylish. Choose a dress in a bold color or print to make a statement, or opt for a classic neutral like black or white for a more understated look.

Accessories

When it comes to accessories, hats are a must-have for a day at the races. They not only protect you from the sun, but they also add an extra touch of glamour to your outfit. There are many different styles to choose from, including wide-brimmed, fascinator, and fedora hats. Don’t be afraid to choose a hat in a bold color or pattern to complement your dress.

Alternatively, for those who want to add a touch of sophistication to their look, a fascinator is the perfect accessory. These delicate hairpieces are the perfect way to add a touch of glamour to your outfit and make a statement. You can choose a simple and elegant style or a more elaborate design to suit your personal taste.

When it comes to jewelry, less is often more when dressing for a day at the races. Choose a statement piece, like a statement necklace or bold earrings, to add some extra sparkle to your outfit. You can also add a touch of glamour with a clutch or handbag. Choose a bag in a coordinating color or print to your dress for a cohesive look.

Footwear

Another important accessory to consider is a pair of heels. Whether you opt for stilettos, wedges, or kitten heels, a pair of heels will elevate your look and make you feel confident and stylish. If you’re not comfortable in heels, consider a pair of stylish flats or sandals. Just be sure to choose a shoe that is appropriate for the occasion and will keep you comfortable throughout the day.

Check the weather

Another important factor to consider when dressing for a day at the races is the weather. Make sure you check the forecast ahead of time and dress accordingly. If the weather is expected to be hot and sunny, opt for lightweight fabrics and light colors to keep you cool. If it’s expected to be cool, choose a heavier fabric and layer your outfit with a light jacket or sweater.

Makeup

When it comes to makeup, keep it simple and elegant. Opt for a natural-looking foundation and a light dusting of powder to keep your skin looking fresh and glowing. For your eyes, choose a subtle smoky eye or a neutral eye shadow paired with a bold eyeliner. Finish off your look with a neutral lipstick or a pop of color to match your dress. Complete the entire ensemble with a spritz of your best vanilla perfume which will provide an attractive scent throughout the day.

In conclusion

A day at the races is the perfect opportunity to dress up and show off your style. Whether you opt for a classic sundress, a statement hat, or a sophisticated fascinator, remember to choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and stylish. With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to turn heads and be the best-dressed woman at the races

Free pest control webinar for food businesses

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February 16, 2023

Galway Daily news Galway has third highest level of callouts for rodents

Food businesses are being encouraged to attend a free webinar on pest control on Wednesday, 1 March, hosted by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI).

The event, which will take place between 10am and 10.45am, is part of a series of informal virtual meetings for food businesses and for people who may be thinking of setting up a food business.

Participants will hear Ruth Conefrey (Training and Compliance Manager, FSAI), Philip Devenish (Environmental Health Officer) and Michael Loughlin (Irish Pest Control Association) discuss best practice for pest control procedures and monitoring.

The webinar is free of charge 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.

Encouraging people to sign up for the ‘Breakfast Bite’ webinar, Dr Pamela Byrne, CEO, FSAI said consumers have a right to safe food and food businesses have a legal responsibility to ensure their products are safe to eat.

“While the majority of food businesses are fully compliant with food safety legislation, Environmental Health Officers continue to find incidents of rodent and pest infestation during routine inspections across the width and breadth of the country,” she said.

“We have organised this Breakfast Bite webinar to help business operators refamiliarise themselves on how to best avoid possible food produce contamination.

“Our expert panellists will help with any queries you may have, so we call on food business operators to register for the event.”

Webinar outline

Ruth Confrey (FSAI) will begin the session with an outline of the increase in pest control occurrences detailed in recent enforcement orders issued by environmental health officers of the FSAI, HSE, and other state bodies.

Philip Devenish (Environmental Health Service) will then discuss pest control procedures and the importance of an effective pest control regime. Philip will also showcase examples of best practice in pest control procedures and highlight some common errors made by Irish food businesses.

Finally, Michael Loughlin (Irish Pest Control Association) will end with a presentation on what to expect from your pest control operator and how best to protect your premises, food produce and storage from rodents and other pests.

For more information on the event and to register, visit www.fsai.ie

Galway weather: Unsettled weekend forecast by Met Éireann

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February 16, 2023