Taoiseach states he still backs Galway City Ring Road

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February 4, 2023

A man was left with serious injuries after being attacked by a group of people at a petrol station earlier this week.

Gardaí are looking to speak with some witnesses to the assault last Tuesday who were sighted in the Tuam to Ballinrobe area.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to a serious assault which occurred at a petrol station on the Neale Road in Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo on Tuesday, January 31.

At approximately 12:15pm, a man in his 20s was assaulted by a number of individuals on the grounds of the premises.

He was taken to hospital where he is currently receiving treatment for serious injuries.

A technical examination of the scene was carried out, and Gardaí have said that investigations are ongoing.

An Garda Síochána are appealing for any witnesses to this incident to come forward.

Gardaí are particularly looking to speak to the two male occupants of a dark coloured 05 Honda Accord which was sighted at the scene.

This vehicle was also sighted in and around the Tuam to Ballinrobe area, between 11:00am and 12:30pm on Tuesday, January 31.

Additionally any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling on the Tuam – Kilmaine – Ballinrobe Road between 10:00am and 06:00pm are asked to make this footage available to Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Claremorris Garda Station on 094 9372080, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

EU Commission confirms daily fines for Derrybrien wind farm ending

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February 4, 2023

Galway Daily news Plans in the works for northwest Galway wind farm

Daily fines against the Irish State over the Derrybrien Wind Farm will cease with a final payment and the decision of An Bord Pleanála.

The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has received a response from the EU Commission that it now considers Ireland to be in compliance with all court orders.

This follows on from a decision of An Bord Pleanála in February of 2022 to refuse substitute consent for the wind farm.

In making its decision to refuse this application, An Bord Pleanála said that it was “not satisfied that exceptional circumstances exist that would justify the grant of substitute consent”.

The specific reason for this was the “significant effects on the environment which occurred as a consequence of the 2003 peat slide”.

The 70 turbine wind farm in the northern Slieve Aughty Mountains suffered a severe landslide in 2003 while under construction.

This destroyed vast areas of forest and peat, and polluted waterways, killing large numbers of fish.

In 2019, the wind farm was found to be in breach of environmental regulations by the EU Court of Justice, leading to fines of €15,000 per day that Ireland was in breach of the court order.

The EU Commission has now said that, with An Bord Pleanála’s final decision, Ireland has taken all measures necessary to ensure compliance with the judgment.

A final installment of €1,245,000 covering fines from last November to this month is due to be paid.

The government has said that the details of the future decommissioning and restoration of the wind farm site are a matter for Galway County Council.

More raw chicken recalled over possible salmonella risk

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February 3, 2023

galway daily news takeaway closed for raw chicken

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has extended a recall of a number of raw chicken products due to the possible presence of Salmonella.

The chicken is being recalled by processor Western Brand and were on sale in Aldi, Lidl, Dunnes, Tesco and Glenmore.

The recall is linked to an ongoing investigation by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine into incidences of Salmonella infection in a number of broiler flocks.

To date, there have been no confirmed cases of human illness linked to the investigation.

The FSAI is warning consumers who may have the affected chicken products at home not to eat them.

Dr Pamela Byrne, Chief Executive, FSAI, has warned consumers not to eat the affected chicken products.

“If anyone has any of the affected chicken product at home, we are advising them not to eat it.

“To date, there have been no confirmed cases of human illness linked to this investigation. Just as a reminder to consumers, raw chicken should always be handled hygienically to prevent cross contamination with ready-to-eat food and raw chicken should never be washed.

“Always wash your hands after handling it and always wash any utensils you’ve used to prepare it. Raw chicken should always be cooked thoroughly before eating it.”

Recalled products

Product	Pack size	Use by dates	Batch Number
Aldi
Butchers selection Irish extra large chicken breast fillets.	690g	6th Feb 2023	23027-113
Butchers selection Irish chicken breast mini fillets.	525g
Butchers selection Irish chicken breast mini fillets.	350g
Butchers selection Irish chicken breast fillets.	500g
Butchers selection Irish 2 pack chicken breast fillets.	291g
Glenmore (BWG)
Glenmore chicken breast fillet	360g	7th Feb 2023	23027-113
Dunnes Stores
Dunnes Stores Irish chicken breast mini fillets	450g	6th Feb 2023	23027-113
Dunnes Stores Irish chicken breast mini fillets	350g
Dunnes Stores Irish chicken breast fillets	840g
Dunnes Stores Irish chicken breast fillets	630g
Dunnes Stores Irish chicken breast fillets	291g
Lidl
Lidl Irish small chicken	1200g	7th Feb 2023	23027-113
Tesco
Tesco Irish chicken breast mini fillets	450g	5th Feb 2023	23027-113

Service of Rememberance to be held at Portiuncula Hospital

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February 3, 2023

Galway Daily news Portiuncula Hospital reports high flu circulation

Portiuncula University Hospital will hold a Service of Remembrance on Monday 13 February in the hospital chapel at 7.30pm.

The hospital is inviting parents and their families who have experienced bereavement through the death of a child or who have lost a baby through miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, still birth or after birth.

Families are welcome to join other families for light refreshments afterwards.

Deirdre Naughton, Director of Midwifery at the hospital, said: “This service offers parents who have experienced bereavement an opportunity to reflect on their grief journey through symbol, music and prayer.

“Parents who have attended this service in the past have shared with us that they have found it to be a time of healing and comfort.”

RnaG documentary explores cocaine problem in Conamara and Galway

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February 3, 2023

galway daily news cocaine problem in connemara and galway rnag

In a documentary to be broadcast on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta next week, journalist Cóilín Ó Neachtain investigates the problem of cocaine use in Connemara and Co. Galway.

In the programme, Snaoisín Bán, on Wednesday 8 February at 2.05pm, Gardaí speak about their experience of the growing problem.

According to Garda figures, there was an increase of more than 50% in the number of people caught in possession of cocaine in Connemara in 2022 compared to the previous year.

Addiction counsellor Joe Treacy and GP Michael Casey speak about their experience of this issue and the serious health implications, and giving damning assessment of the services available for addicts in Co. Galway.

Listeners will also hear the personal experience of one young man, who describes how his cocaine habit escalated from one line to a €500 a day habit and cost him his job, his relationship, and his health, before he finally got help.

We’ll also learn about the services available in the Bushypark Addiction Treatment Centre in Ennis, Co. Clare.

Snaoisín Bán airs at 2.05 pm on Wednesday 8 February on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta.

Lack of infrastructure holding back Galway City housing developments

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February 3, 2023

Galway Daily news Lack of infrastructure holding back Galway City housing developments

A lack of infrastructure is holding back the construction of housing in Galway City, criticism leveled at the city council claims.

Sinn Féin representative Mark Lohan said that a lack of forward planning by the city council has seen developments refused planning due to a lack of public transport, pedestrian and cycling links, and substandard roads.

Lohan was speaking after An Bord Pleanála rejected two significant housing developments on the outskirts of the city last month, as there wasn’t sufficient infrastructure in place to support them.

In one project, the city council sought approval for 71 social housing units at Keeraun on the Ballymoneen Road.

“The planning application was refused because the location is without city services and access to town. there no public bus services and no footpaths,” Mark Lohan said.

“It would make life difficult and dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists and make car use an essential for even short trips.”

Also refused planning last month was an application by O’Malley Construction for 55 houses and apartments to the east of the Ballymoneen Road.

This had been approved by the city council last year, but that decision was appealed by Galway Cycling Campaign.

In rejecting this application, the Bord also cited a lack of pedestrian and cycling links, social facilities, and said that the local road was deficient in terms of its width and alignment.

Another social housing development planned for the Headford Road, comprising 21 apartments along with Traveller Accommodation, was also turned down for a similar reasons.

“There is a serious lack of forward planning in City Council whereby housing developments are proposed without the proper infrastructure, widened roads, bus services etc., being in place first,” Mark Lohan said.

“Galway City is a long way off building enough Social Housing. These badly thought-out housing developments must not happen again. We can and we should do better.”

He said that rather than blame An Bord Pleanála, this should be a wake up call for the city council when proposing housing developments.

However, he was also critical of the length of time it took for An Bord Pleanála to make decisions.

The planning application for the 71 social housing units at Keeraun was lodged in September of 2021, but a decision was only issued last month.

Three Connacht players named for Six Nations opening game

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February 3, 2023

Galway Daily sport Mack Hansen ruled out of Six Nations 2024 due to surgery — Mack Hansen. Photo: INPHO

Three Connacht players have been named to the senior Irish squad that will face Wales in the opening weekend of the Guinness Six Nations Championship.

Mack Hansen, who has been making a name for himself in recent appearances, and Finlay Bealham will both be among the starting XV tomorrow.

On the replacements bench, Bundee Aki will also be representing the west of Ireland in Cardiff.

Johnny Sexton will be back captaining the Irish side, after sustaining a facial injury that needed surgery while playing against Connacht on New Year’s Day.

Ireland v Wales will take place in Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales this Saturday, with kick-off at 2:15pm.

The match will be broadcast live on Virgin Media and BBC television and on RTE and BBC NI radio.

The full Irish side for the coming game is:

15. Hugo Keenan (Leinster/UCD) 25 caps
14. Mack Hansen (Connacht) 8 caps
13. Garry Ringrose (Leinster/UCD) 47 caps
12. Stuart McCloskey (Ulster/Bangor) 9 caps
11. James Lowe (Leinster) 15 caps
10. Johnny Sexton (Leinster/St Mary’s College) 109 caps (c)
9. Jamison Gibson Park (Leinster) 23 caps

1. Andrew Porter (Leinster/UCD) 48 caps
2. Dan Sheehan (Leinster/Lansdowne) 13 caps
3. Finlay Bealham (Connacht/Buccaneers) 27 caps
4. Tadhg Beirne (Munster/Lansdowne) 36 caps
5. James Ryan (Leinster/UCD) 48 caps
6. Peter O’Mahony (Munster/Cork Constitution) 89 caps
7. Josh van der Flier (Leinster/UCD) 45 caps
8. Caelan Doris (Leinster/St Mary’s College) 23 caps

Replacements:

16. Rob Herring (Ulster/Ballynahinch) 31 caps
17. Cian Healy (Leinster/Clontarf) 121 caps
18. Tom O’Toole (Ulster/Ballynahinch) 4 caps
19. Iain Henderson (Ulster/Academy) 68 caps
20. Jack Conan (Leinster/Old Belvedere) 33 caps
21. Conor Murray (Munster/Garryowen) 100 caps
22. Ross Byrne (Leinster/UCD) 4 caps
23. Bundee Aki (Connacht/Galwegians) 41 caps

Rural homeowners and farmers living in fear of burglaries

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February 3, 2023

Galway Daily news Rural homeowners and farmers living in fear of burglaries

People living in rural areas are living in fear for their safety due to the risk of robberies and burglaries a Galway TD has said.

Galway East TD Seán Canney said farmers and homeowners are fearful for the safety of their families, as well as for their livestock and property.

Deputy Canney said that he has been contacted by homeowners who have been upset at the ease with with robberies and burglaries occur, and the lack of success in catching the perpetrators.

“Another common occurrence is the fact that there is a worrying increase in people trespassing, and general intimidation on farmers’ own land,” he said.

It can be very traumatic to encounter trespassers on your land, Seán Canney said, whether they are hunters with dogs, or people there for some other, unknown reason.

“Particularly if abusive language, intimidation, or physical aggression is meted out by these unwelcome parties.”

“Trespassing is a serious offence and providing the resources necessary to allow people feel safe in and on their own property needs to be a priority.”

The loss of livestock is also a serious concern, due to the vulnerability of cattle and sheep while they are out grazing.

During one incident in recent months, seven heifers were stolen from a plot of rented farmland near Ballinasloe last August.

In another high value theft near Corrandulla, some 30 high quality ducks, turkeys, and hens worth up to €10,000 were stolen last December.

A concerted effort is needed to track where stolen farm animals are ending up, Sean Canney said, and put a stop to it.

Road users urged to stay safe this Bank Holiday weekend

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February 3, 2023

Galway Daily news National Slow Down Day traffic operation after road deaths

Gardaí and the Road Safety Authority are appealing for people to stay safe on the road this Bank Holiday weekend, as road deaths have spiked so far this year.

This weekend is a new bank holiday weekend introduced by the Government in recognition of the public’s response and solidarity with each other during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Bank Holidays see many people out celebrating over the weekend, as well as increased traffic on the road, which can be a deadly combination.

Last year saw 156 people killed on the road in Ireland, the highest number since 2016.

In January of this year alone there have been 18 people killed in traffic collision, the highest number for this month in a decade.

Here in Galway, a man in his 60s was killed in a three vehicle collision in Ballinasloe a week and a half ago on January 23.

An Garda Síochána and the RSA are appealing to all road users to continue to demonstrate that public solidarity and ‘Stay Safe’ this weekend.

Assistant Garda Commissioner Paula Hilman said, “Bank Holiday Weekends are a very busy time on the roads and our experience is that the risk of fatal and serious injury collisions increases during these periods.”

“Similarly to other bank holidays this weekend we will be focusing on the four lifesaver offences; driving under the influence, speeding, non-wearing of seatbelts and mobile phone use.”

“An Garda Síochána will engage with the public and work with our partners to keep people safe on our roads, this bank holiday weekend.”

People driving on rural roads are particularly being urged to drive cautiously, as this is where most fatal crashes take place.

Drivers are urged to drive with dipped headlights during the day, especially if they do not have Daytime Running Lights.

Pedestrians are advised to wear high visibility at night on roads without public lighting and footpaths.

Cyclists should wear safety helmets and ensure they have a white light to the front and red light to the back so they are visible to pedestrians and drivers.

Green light for University of Galway water sports centre

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February 3, 2023

Galway Daily news Green light for University of Galway water sports centre

Plans for a new water sports facility at University of Galway are going swimmingly, with planning approval granted by the city council.

The university intends to build a watersports facility on the north campus, near to the Quincentenary Bridge, to provide modern facilities for existing kayaking, rowing, and swimming clubs.

This will consist of two separate buildings. The two storey clubhouse will contain storage and repair facilities on the ground floor, along with a café, changing rooms, and a first aid station.

The first floor of the clubhouse will contain a training room, gym, test room, function room with kitchen, and offices.

A single storey boathouse will also be built on the northern end of the site, along with two floating pontoons on the bank of the Corrib for boats to come and go from.

Planning permission was granted by the city council with 17 conditions attached to it. The council stipulated that no alterations shall be made to the riverbank, or works done in the water, save for what was submitted in the application.

Environmental mitigation methods in line with what was outlined in the various reports submitted with the application must also be implemented in full, and the works must also be supervised by an archaeologist.

Public access to the river must also not be impeded in any way by the new water sports centre.

The university must also pay a contribution of €128,200 to the city council towards the provision of public services in the area facilitating the development.

“The proposed Water Sports Centre will cater for the needs of the University Watersports Clubs of Rowing, Kayak, and Sub Aqua,” a cover report with the application states.

“The new centre is designed to provide state of the art training facilities for watersports that NUI Galway has excelled at both national and international level.”

“This Centre will build on these performances, such as the most recent success of an Olympic medal at the Tokyo games.”

This move will see the university’s watersports teams move from their current location beside the weir, to a “more secure” and safer spot for river users.

Council must install fully accessible public toilet in Ballinasloe says local cllr

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February 2, 2023

galway daily news public toilets cllr owen hanley

Galway County Councillor Evelyn Parsons has called on the Council to pilot a fully accessible toilet facility in Ballinasloe with access to suitable equipment like hoists and changing benches.

The Independent councillor proposed a motion for the facility which was seconded by Cllr Tim Broderick and agreed by the January plenary council.

Cllr Parsons has consistently raised the issue of public toilets in Ballinasloe since becoming a councillor.

She said that it is the harsh reality for thousands of children and adults with disabilities that they do not have access to toilet facilities with suitable equipment to meet their needs.

“They often endure the indignity of being changed on the floor of a public toilet or else avoid getting out and about, becoming isolated from their communities at home,” she said.

“There are approximately 640,000 people currently living with disabilities in Ireland, and we have an increasing elderly population and still there are only 20 or so Changing Places toilet facilities which promote inclusivity for persons with high dependency needs in the country.

“Persons living with disabilities are valuable members of our community too and it is not acceptable in this day and age that our current public toilet infrastructure does not recognise this.”

The councillor said that GCC needed to step up its implementation of the United Nations Convention of Rights of Persons Living with Disabilities.

The aim of the Convention is to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity.

Ten University of Galway students receive scholarships from Johnson & Johnson

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February 2, 2023

galway daily news johnson & johnson scholarship stem university of galway — University of Galway students with bespoke framed glass artworks to mark their receipt of a scholarship from Johnson & Johnson. Pictured are students Gemma O'Brien Hehir, Laura Burke, Niamh Corcoran, Sophie Spellissy, Rebecca Norris, Laura Quinn, Emer Nic Roibín, Sarah Daves, Syakira Amani Khairul Nazri and NMairead Rowland with Prof. Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, President, University of Galway, Anna Rafferty, Director of Strategy at Campus Ireland, Johnson & Johnson and Michael Gilvarry, General Manager, CERENOVUS. Photo Martina Regan

Ten students at University of Galway have been chosen as recipients of the prestigious Women in STEM2D (WiSTEM2D) Undergraduate Award from Johnson & Johnson.

The award recognises outstanding female students in STEM2D disciplines: Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths, Manufacturing and Design.

Each of the ten recipients will receive a student award, mentoring and leadership training, an opportunity to attend careers workshops, visit Johnson & Johnson sites and participate in WiSTEM2D events.

The University of Galway students selected to receive the scholarships are:

Emer Nic Roibín; Bachelor of Science; Belfast
Gemma O’Brien Hehir; Biomedical Engineering; Galway
Laura Burke; Biomedical Engineering, Moycullen; Galway
Laura Quinn; Bachelor of Arts (Mathematical Studies and Information Technology); Renmore, Galway
Mairéad Rowland; Biomedical Science; Rossport, Ballina, Co. Mayo
Niamh Corcoran; Biomedical Engineering; Leacarrow, Co. Roscommon
Rebeccca Norris; Bachelor of Science; Athlone, Co. Westmeath
Sarah Daves; Marine Science; Austin, Texas; USA
Sophie Spellissy; Computer Science and Information Technology; Ennis, Co. Clare
Syakira Amani Khairul Nazri; Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology); Waterford City

The undergraduate programme was first introduced at University of Limerick in 2016 and has since supported over 400 women.

The programme expanded to include UCC in 2018, University of Galway in 2021, and Munster Technological University in 2022.

Michael Gilvarry, General Manager at Cerenovus, congratulated those who were chosen as recipients of this year’s award.

“I am sure that they will enjoy the benefits that the programme has them to offer in supporting career development, including visits to our facilities, and the opportunity to engage with a mentor,” he said.

“Johnson & Johnson recognises the importance of supporting women early in their careers, to aid the development of female STEM leaders for the future. We believe in the power of diversity and inclusion to drive innovation and progress.”

Local business leaders raise over €200,600 for COPE Galway

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February 2, 2023

some of the 39 business leaders who took part in the 11th annual COPE Galway Business Leaders Sleep Out in December

COPE Galway has announced that the 2022 Business Leaders’ Sleep Out has so far raised over €200,600 for their Homeless Service, with further donations still expected over the coming weeks.

Thirty-nine local business leaders took on the challenge to sleep out over 12 hours on Shop Street on a cold night in early December to raise vital funds for the charity.

Sharon Fitzpatrick, COPE Galway’s Head of Development, said they are “so grateful to the business community and their supporters for raising these vital funds for our Homeless Service at a time when more and more people are becoming homeless, and the need for our service is growing rapidly.”

The funds raised will allow COPE Galway to continue to develop and expand innovative services to support children, women and men while they remain in temporary or transitionary accommodation for extended periods of time over the year ahead.

Pictured above are some of the 39 business leaders who took part in the 11th annual COPE Galway Business Leaders Sleep Out on December 2, raising vital funds for COPE Galway’s Homeless Service.

(Front Row) Marisa and Damian McGreal, MARIDAM CCE; Ger Broderick, Bank of Ireland; Martin Noone, Medtronic; Ciara Daly, Conquer Digital; Joey Bell, Kenny Galway; Michelle Ruane, Queen of Clean; Sharon Fitzpatrick, COPE Galway; Nick O’Keefe, Premier Property Group.

(Back row) Leonie Woutersen, COPE Galway; Tom Dempsey, TD Flooring; David Ruane, Intuity Technologies; Gus McCarthy, MKO; Martin O’Connor, COPE Galway; James Livesey, University of Galway; David Noone, Dockket.

To view the impact of the Business Leaders Sleepout, and to see a video from the night, visit copegalwaysleepout.ie/impact

Emirates to return to Galway looking for new recruits

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February 2, 2023

galway daily news emirates airline galway recruitment

Dubai-based airline Emirates will return to Galway next week looking for candidates to join its multicultural cabin crew team.

The airline is holding a recruitment open day on Thursday, 9 February at 9am at The Hardiman, Eyre Square.

Emirates crew members are based in Dubai and receive benefits such as a tax-free salary, free housing, free transportation to and from work, excellent medical cover, and special discounts on Dubai’s shopping and leisure activities.

They are looking for applicants who are passionate about providing exceptional hospitality, while creating an unforgettable experience for passengers.

Successful applicants will receive world-class training at the airline’s state-of-the-art facility in Dubai.

Applicants are advised to attend their chosen open day with an up-to-date CV in English and a recent photo.

To ensure a smoother application process, Emirates is advising candidates to pre-register on its careers page. Walk-ins and those who have not applied online are welcome to attend.

Applicants can find more details regarding the criteria for the selection process on emirates.com/careers

Candidates should plan to stay at the location for the entire day. On the same day, shortlisted candidates will be advised of the times for subsequent assessments and interviews.

With 160 nationalities representing the airline’s cabin crew team, its workforce reflects the diversity of its passengers and conducts worldwide operations in more than 130 destinations across six continents using a contemporary fleet of more than 200 wide-body aircraft.

The airline is the largest global operator of the Boeing 777 and the Airbus A380.

The expanding worldwide network of Emirates provides numerous travel options throughout the six continents served by the airline.

Emirates cabin crew and their families also benefit from discounted travel perks.

Emirates has been flying to Ireland for 11 years and currently offers a double daily service from Dublin to Dubai.

University of Galway students urged to follow in footsteps of Michael D.

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February 2, 2023

galway daily news students union president calls for students to contest elections — Michael D. Higgins, Uachtarán na hÉireann and University of Galway Students' Union President from 1964 to '65.

Students at University of Galway are being encouraged to follow in the footsteps of Michael D. Higgins by running for election to next year’s Students’ Union Executive Committee.

There are 19 officer positions up for grabs this year with four of them being full-time paid jobs. Nominations open on Wednesday, 15 February.

The positions reflect the key areas in which the Union is mandated to represent its 19,000 student members.

These range from International Students Officer to Environmental and Sustainability Officer.

Those elected to the positions of President, Vice President/Education Officer, Vice President/Welfare, and Equality Officer and Vice President for the Irish Language will take a year out of their studies to work full-time in these prestigious roles.

Students’ Union President Sai Gujulla said the SU is encouraging all students to consider running for election this year.

“It’s a very exciting time for the student movement and students who run for election will be able to play their part in making University of Galway a better place for us all,” he said.

“We’ve an election information evening at 6pm this Tuesday 7th of February where students can find out more about running for election.”

Students’ Union Vice President/Education Officer Joe Mee added: “The Students’ Union plays a key role in defending, promoting and vindicating the rights of our 19,000 student members.

“Running for SU Elections is a great opportunity to have a direct impact on the student experience whilst developing your skills in leadership, organisation, communication, negotiation and advocacy.

“You’ll be a leader in a unique organisation which can lead to great opportunities as President Michael D Higgins has shown!”

Boost for tourism as Aer Lingus announces flights from London to Knock

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February 2, 2023

galway daily aer lingus plane as recruitment drive nears deadline

Aer Lingus has announced a new daily flight from London Heathrow to Knock Airport beginning on 26 March.

Tourism Ireland welcomed the news, saying that it and will help boost tourism in the West of Ireland from Britain.

Niall Gibbons, Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland, said that as an island destination, we know there’s a proven direct correlation between access and growth in visitor numbers.

He said that this new flight will therefore certainly help boost visitor numbers from Britain.

“Tourism Ireland is committed to working with Aer Lingus, Ireland West Airport Knock and our other key partners, to drive demand for this new flight, and all other services to Ireland, and help maintain our vital network of routes and services.”

Mr Gibbons said that Britain remains a very important market for tourism to the island of Ireland, delivering around 42% of all our overseas visitors.

In 2019, Ireland welcomed almost 4.8 million British visitors, whose visits generated approximately €1.45 billion for the economy.

Two men killed in Mayo crash overnight

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February 2, 2023

Two men have lost their lives following a two-vehicle collision just before midnight last night.

The men (20s) were killed after a collision between their car and a truck on the Balla to Claremorris road (N60) at Facefield, Co. Mayo.

Their bodies were removed to mortuary at Mayo University Hospital. Post-mortems will take place in due course.

The driver of the truck (30s) was also taken to Mayo University Hospital as a precaution.

The road was closed this morning with local diversions in place. Garda Forensic Collision investigators will conduct their examination of the scene this morning.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to come forward and any road users with video footage (including dash cam) is asked to make this available to them.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Castlebar Garda Station 094 903 8200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Pieta Launches its Signs of Suicide Campaign for 2023

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February 1, 2023

19/1/2023 — Pieta Signs of Suicide campaign ambassador Aaron J Harte Photo Credit: ©INPHO/James Crombie

With the new year, mental health charity Pieta has relaunched its ‘SIGNS of Suicide’ campaign to raise awareness of mental issues.

As part of this year’s campaign, Pieta has partnered with Galway born singer- songwriter, Aaron J Hart and wellness influencer Nathalie Lennon to spread awareness.

The organisation’s Helpline team received 99,042 calls and texts last year and delivered over 51,000 therapy hours, highlighting the growing demand for assistance.

Currently, 35% of Pieta’s clients are under the age of 18, while in Ireland, the overall suicide rate for males is three times higher than that of females according to CSO data.

This indicates that men as less likely to reach out and ask for help when they are experiencing a crisis.

The suicide prevention charity is asking people to be on the lookout for signs in their loved ones such as: Sleep Disturbance, Isolation, Giving Away Possessions, No Interest in Anything, Speaking of No Future.

Aaron J Harte, ‘SIGNS of Suicide’ ambassador, said that he was proud to take part in Pieta’s campaign again this year.

“As anyone who follows me will know, I have endured my own mental health struggles. I know how hard it is for young men in particular to speak to family and friends about how they’re feeling but I also know firsthand what a difference it can make.”

“For me, opening up marked the beginning of my road to recovery. It is so important to talk openly and honestly about our feelings and to let those who care about us know when we need a helping hand.”

“Likewise, I encourage everyone to familiarise themselves with Pieta’s ‘SIGNS of Suicide’. That way, we can look out for family and friends who may be struggling and be there for them. Know the signs, save lives.”

Aaron J Harte and Nathalie Lennon
Photo Credit ©INPHO/James Crombie

Stephanie Manahan, Pieta CEO, added, “While mental health struggles aren’t confined to any one period of the year, we do know that January can be especially difficult for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal ideation.”

“That is why Pieta is keen to spread the word about the SIGNS of Suicide and to reiterate the message that it’s okay to not be okay.”

Pieta is encouraging people to ‘swap the small talk for the big talk’ and open up to a family member, friend, or trusted confidante.

Talking to loved ones about emotions is a difficult, but important, first step and can help alleviate distress before things spiral or escalate.

It is essential that anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts seeks help from a trained professional.

To avail of Pieta services, which are free of charge, please visit www.pieta.ie for all centre contact details and the National Therapy Services phoneline 0818 111 126.

Pieta provides 24/7 support – if you are suicidal, self-harming or bereaved you can contact Pieta 24/7 via the Freephone crisis helpline on 1800 247 247, you can also text HELP to 51444

Plans approved to continue reclamation of land at Ros a Mhíl Harbour

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February 1, 2023