Father Ted star to headline Róisín Dubh’s Thursday night comedy club!

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November 30, 2022

galway daily news ronan scully — Ronan on his way from Ennistymon to Liscannor Co Clare. Photo:Andrew Downes, Xposure

Self Help Africa’s Ronan Scully will receive the 6th Oireachtas Human Dignity Award at a ceremony in Leinster House tomorrow, Thursday.

The award is presented by the Oireachtas Human Dignity Group to a person or group whose commitment to the promotion of human dignity is exemplary.

Ronan Scully, who was previously named Galway Person of The Year and received the Galway Mayoral Award, is now being honoured for his many years of service to others, both as a volunteer and professionally.

Since 2010, Ronan has worked with Self Help Africa, and was a volunteer and employee with GOAL for 18 years.

He has raised millions of euro over the years for various charities committed to human development and famine relief in Africa and Asia.

Ronan, originally from Offaly, works regularly with projects in Ethiopia, Sierra Leone, Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, Malawi and India.

An Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl TD said that in honouring Ronan, they are honouring a great tradition of Irish people working to alleviate human suffering across the planet.

Independent senator Rónán Mullen, who proposed Mr Scully for the Award, described him as “a person of energy, enthusiasm, faith and hope, dedicated to improving people’s lives in the toughest parts of the world.”

“Ronan Scully is also known for his sporting and cultural contribution,” said Senator Mullen.

“He has been Offaly Sportsperson of the Year, was a leader on RTÉ’s Operation Transformation, has authored two books and writes a weekly column for three regional newspapers.

“In all he does, he motivates and helps others to improve their situation by pointing to what is important in life and helping them to reach for that, as he does himself. In that sense Ronan is a ‘renaissance man’.”

The award will be presented by the Ceann Comhairle at a ceremony in Leinster House to be attended by members of Ronan Scully’s family, representatives of Self Help Africa, TDs and senators.

Previous recipients of the Human Dignity Award were Sr Consilio Fitzgerald of Cuan Mhuire; Barney Curley, founder of Direct Aid For Africa; Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, founder of Mary’s Meals; Gina Heraty of Our Little Brothers and Sisters Orphanage in Haiti, and Br Kevin Crowley of the Capuchin Day Centre.

Nine Galway city cafés selling discounted €2 coffees this Friday

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November 30, 2022

galway daily news city café's giving away €2 coffee's on Friday

Nine cafés in Galway City are celebrating this Green Friday by offering their customers discounted €2 coffees all day.

The coffees will be sold in reusable 2GoCups at the nine cafés this Friday, 2 December.

The local businesses participating in Galway City Council’s reusable cup trial are Anton’s Café, Fr Griffin Road; C’est la Vie, Terryland; the Creamery, Salthill; Greens & Co, Henry Street; Mocha Beans, Salthill, Cross Street and Newcastle Road; Roscoes, Eglington Street; and Rouge, Dominic Street.

Speaking about the initiative, Tiarnan McCusker, Environmental Awareness Officer with Galway City Council explained: “We have just had Black Friday which is a welcome boost to the local retailers but inadvertently leads to an increase in packaging waste.

“Green Friday is a novel way for us to do something good for the environment. A €2 coffee in a 2GoCup will save you money and reduce the 22,000 coffee cups disposed of each hour in Ireland.

“Simply ‘borrow’ a fresh reusable cup for €1 from any of the participating cafés, and you can return it at any time to get your money back.”

UHG surgeon speaks out as pressure mounts for a new cancer centre in West

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November 30, 2022

galway daily news surgeon at uhg calls for cancer centre in the region — Photo:Andrew Downes, xposure

Alan Hussey, Plastic Surgeon in University Hospital Galway, has spoken about the urgent need for a new fit-for-purpose cancer centre in the West of Ireland.

Mr Hussey was diagnosed with cancer in June 2019 and he is now experiencing first-hand what it is like to be a patient receiving cancer care in the West.

He went from performing reconstructive plastic surgery on patients to undergoing two surgeries himself.

Mr Hussey’s experience as a doctor, and as a patient, has led him to row in behind a call for greater urgency in building a new fit-for-purpose cancer centre at UHG to replace severely outdated facilities which are struggling to cope with patient demand.

The surgeon said that the day ward, where patients receive treatment, is constantly crowded and at times there are not enough lounger chairs to cope with the numbers coming through and some have to be looked after in outpatient cubicles.

He said that there is great expertise at the hospital and the nursing staff are wonderful and doing everything they can, but the facilities are dated and not equipped to cope with the growing numbers of patients who need care.

Due to its largely older population and how highly dispersed the region is, the areas of the country with the highest incidence of cancer are the west and the north-west.

Although there has been an improvement nationally in survival rates for cancer, this region still has the lowest survival rates for those with breast and lung cancer.

Prof Michael Kerin, Director Saolta-NUI Galway Cancer Network, said that this cancer centre is “drastically needed to ensure that all cancer patients in the west and north-west of Ireland will be able to avail of timely diagnoses and the treatment and care they need.”

Last week, neatly 200 people attended an event in the Salthill Hotel in support of the proposed Cancer Centre in UHG and to raise more awareness of its necessity.

Galway senator praises royal tribute to disbanded Irish regiments in British Army

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November 30, 2022

galway daily news windsor castle irish regiment colours — Disbanded Irish Regiments' Colours on display at Windsor Castle in England. Photo by Allan Hillery from D Ball collection

Galway senator Gerard Craughwell has praised a commemorative service in England to mark the centenary of the handing over the Colours of the six Irish regiments of the British Army which were disbanded in 1922.

Senator Craughwell, the Irish Ambassador, senior service personnel, and representatives of all the regiments currently serving in the British Army with Irish connections attended the ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday.

The late Queen Elizabeth II expressed her wish that such an event should take place while she was at Balmoral Castle in Scotland earlier this year.

That wish was endorsed by the new king, with senior military authorities recognising the importance of this centenary year.

The commemoration service, presided over by Father Pip Smith, took place at Windsor Castle where the colours of the Irish regiments are exhibited.

The governor and constable of Windsor Castle held a reception in his private quarters, attended by representatives of the Regimental Associations of the six regiments.

Local senator Gerard P Craughwell, President of the Connaught Rangers’ Association and former member of both the Irish Defence Forces and British Army, said: “We are grateful to the military authorities in London for making this centenary happen especially in such a significant year, and I acknowledge the impetus from those well-placed generals with Irish connections.

“It is important to recognise the extraordinary contribution, service and huge sacrifice of the men, and families, of these fine Irish Regiments, especially in the Great War 1914-18.

“No less than 15 Victoria Crosses, the highest award for valour in the British Army, were won by these Irish Regiments since their formation in 1881.”

At the reception, a presentational box containing commemorative coins of the six disbanded Irish regiments, especially designed and produced by Sean Collopy of Limerick, will be handed over for safekeeping in the castle.

The 80^th and 90^th anniversaries of the handing over the Colours in 1922 had previously been held at Windsor Castle, both hosted by Prince Andrew.

Pan Pan Theatre Company archive launched at University of Galway

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November 30, 2022

galway daily news pan pan archive launch at university of galway — (Left to right) Dr Barry Houlihan, Aedín Cosgrove, Willie White of Dublin Theatre Fesitval, Gavin Quinn, Pan Pan Theatre and Aafke van Pelt at the launch of the Pan Pan Theatre archive at University of Galway.

The archive of the award-winning Pan Pan Theatre Company has been donated to the University of Galway Library Archives.

Established in 1993 by Gavin Quinn and Aedín Cosgrove, Pan Pan Theatre Company have established international recognition as one of Ireland’s premiere theatre companies, touring throughout Ireland, Europe, the United States and from China to New Zealand.

The archive is fully catalogued and available to researchers at University of Galway Library.

A new digital online exhibition will share the Pan Pan archive with a global audience here.

The Pan Pan archive consists of annotated scripts, production notebooks, photographs, designs, programmes, posters, and a vast collection of digital show recordings, spanning more than 50 boxes of materials from the last 30 years.

The papers document the early years and development of the company led by Quinn and Cosgrove, who have directed and designed the majority of Pan Pan productions.

Dr Barry Houlihan, Archivist, University of Galway, said: “Working on the Pan Pan archive and cataloguing its vast array of materials is a reminder of the immense contribution that Pan Pan have made to contemporary Irish drama in Ireland and internationally.

“The archive will be in an immersive and fascinating resource for anyone interesting in the company and modern Irish theatre and culture.”

Gavin Quinn and Aedín Cosgrove, co-founders of Pan Pan Theatre Company said: “It’s an amazing opportunity that University of Galway has given Pan Pan to make our work available in this archive, we are blown away by the dedication and curatorial excellence of the Archive team. We are delighted that our little contribution to the theatre scene in Ireland will be preserved.”

Pan Pan were established as “Ireland’s first deaf ensemble”, producing work for and with deaf practitioners and audiences, creating a new space of accessibility for Irish theatre in the 1990s.

New original works by Pan Pan at this time included Tailors Requiem (1996), Cartoon (1998), and Standoffish (2000).

Dr Charlotte McIvor, Head of Drama, Theatre and Performance at University of Galway said: “The acquisition of the Pan Pan archive gives us another opportunity to bring together history and practice in our Drama and Theatre Studies classrooms and across the School of English and Creative Arts.

“Pan Pan have always been at the vanguard of moving Irish theatre forward as a landscape since their founding, and we are now delighted to be partnering with them to bring the transformative story of their history and their future directly to our students.”

John Cox, University Librarian, University of Galway said: “We are delighted to have secured the archive of such an innovative company as Pan Pan.

“This archive is a tremendous collection in its own right and complements our archival coverage of other Irish theatre companies, including the digitised archives of the Abbey and Gate Theatres and others in paper format such as those of the Druid, Lyric and Taibhdhearc.”

In later years Pan Pan adapted Irish and European classics in new and innovate productions.

Oedipus Loves You by Simon Doyle and Gavin Quinn (2006), which starred Ruth Negga, toured to international acclaim. The Crumb Trail by Gina Moxley (20009) revisited the form of the fairy tale for a modern technology-driven society.

Pan Pan engaged with the works of Samuel Beckett and William Shakespeare across a number of productions. Pan Pan produced Beckett’s radio plays, All That Fall in 2011, and Embers in 2013, and also Beckett’s Quad (2013) and Endgame (2019).

Shakespeare’s works were explored in Mac-beth 7 (2004) and The Rehearsal: Playing the Dane (2010), a reworking of Hamlet. In 2006, Pan Pan staged an all-Chinese cast production of J.M. Synge’s The Playboy of the Western World in Shanghai, translated into Mandarin, setting the production in a contemporary hairdresser’s salon.

Pan Pan are today producing new works and regularly touring nationally and internationally. The recipients of many international awards as well as Irish Times Irish Theatre Awards, the Pan Pan archive documents a company that has always sought to innovate, reinterpret, and connect Irish theatre and culture to the worldwide audience.

The Pan Pan archive digital exhibition, curated by Aafke Van Pelt with Eimhin Joyce and Dr Barry Houlihan, includes more than 400 digital objects from across the Pan Pan archive, all freely accessible online via the University of Galway Library Digital Repository.

The Pan Pan archive and digital exhibition will be launched at an event in University of Galway by Willie White, Director of the Dublin Theatre Festival on 29^th November. All are welcome to attend.

Visit Santa in the Hardiman this December for a cosy festive lunch experience

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November 30, 2022

galway daily news santa at the hardiman in galway city

The Hardiman on Eyre Square will welcome Santa Claus for a series of lunches in December ahead of the busiest night of the year for the North Pole man.

The popular Hardiman’s Santa Lunch Experience, which can be booked from this weekend, will take place on each Saturday and Sunday between 1pm and 5pm until 18 December.

People will enjoy a two or three-course lunch with starters including celeriac and chestnut soup; honey and soy glazed chicken wings; crispy duck and bean sprout salad and heritage beetroot salad.

The meal continues with traditional mains such as braised daube of Charleville beef; traditional oven roast turkey and ham with all the trimmings; miso glazed salmon; Galway Hooker Ale battered fish of the day and wild mushroom and kale gnocchi.

The three-course option will finish with the hotel’s chocolate and orange gateau with candied orange peel, dark chocolate bark and chocolate sauce, or the Hardiman assiette and Christmas pudding with brandy custard compote and vanilla bean ice cream.

After lunch, children can visit Santy himself in his Hardiman grotto and receive a selection box.

The 2-course Santa Lunch menu for adults is €30 and the 3-course lunch menu is €38 pp. The children’s menu is €15.95 for two courses.

Booking is essential as places are limited and subject to availability, see www.thehardiman.ie to book or call 091 564 041.

O’Meara’s SuperValu to launch new-look store after €1.2m makeover

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November 30, 2022

galway daily news o'meara's supervalu portumna — Yvonne O'Meara

SuperValu is set to launch its new-look store in Portumna next Thursday 8 December after the retailer invested €1.2 million into the store.

O’Meara’s SuperValu will offer an extended range of produce including a new Frank & Honest café, Moo’d ice cream, a new in-store bakery with special handmade doughnuts, a new hot food counter, a food-to-go range and a new a Happy Pear range.

The revamped store will also now offer a seasonal offers space, a value offer space and a new own-brand area.

The Portumna SuperValu has given 800 local people their first job, and the latest makeover will see the retailer hire new chef, bakery and barista team members.

Customers are invited to the official store launch next Thursday for a day of fun and activities, with many prizes to be won.

Commenting on the launch of the new store, Yvonne O’Meara said they are delighted to be opening our new-look store after significant investment and much hard work from the team.

“The new state-of-the-art store will offer our customers premium produce including our fresh bakery and food-to-go range, as well as fantastic products from local suppliers.

“We believe in enhancing local communities by caring for our environment, so we are particularly proud of the dedicated eco-friendly technologies throughout the new store.

“We can’t wait to bring our new offering to the people of Portumna and are extremely grateful to all our loyal customers who continue to support us in the local community.

“We look forward to seeing them in store again soon, and hope many of them will join us for the official launch on December 8^th.”

O’Meara’s SuperValu is independently owned and has been a long-standing supporter of the local community.

New art installation gives voice to women in Galway who experience domestic abuse

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November 30, 2022

galway daily news art installation atu cope galway

A new art installation commissioned by COPE Galway has been unveiled to the public in Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Galway.

The sculptural work, titled ‘We See You, We Hear You’, is by Galway artist Maura Finnegan and was commissioned by COPE Galway Domestic Abuse Service to mark its 40th anniversary.

Maura Finnegan created the piece in collaboration with women who have engaged with COPE Galway’s Domestic Abuse Service and members of its staff.

The art installation comprises seven display cases on plinths.

Six of the cases contain heads sculpted from plaster that depict different women, and each one has a QR code that connects to an audio recording of an anonymous COPE Galway service user telling the story of her real experience of domestic abuse in her own words.

A seventh box is left empty to represent women who have lost their lives due to domestic violence.

The charity chose Monday to launch the artwork in observance of the annual UN-supported 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign that is currently taking place internationally.

Describing the piece, the artist Maura Finnegan, who is a graduate of the MA Creative Practice course at ATU, said she chose to sculpt the head and face of women from a diverse age and cultural demographic, six in all, representative of Galway city and county in contemporary society.

“There is a seventh display case laid empty, indicating the worst possible outcome of domestic abuse,” said Maura.

“The sculpted heads embody silence, a word which occurred frequently in collaborative conversations with both the staff and clients of COPE Galway.

“While the sculptural figurative forms remain entrapped in silence, their words can be heard privately in audio files, accessed through your smartphone via a QR code to COPE Galway’s website.”

Speaking at the unveiling of the sculpture, Training and Development Lead with COPE Galway Domestic Abuse Service, Jackie Carroll, said: “It’s always a privilege to work with survivors of domestic abuse and getting their input into this significant art project was hugely important.

“As we look back on 40 years of our domestic abuse service provision, I hope that the sculpture will raise awareness and I hope other women come forward and get the support needed.

“We know that significant numbers of women in every community experience domestic abuse. One in five women in Ireland will be abused by her partner at some stage in her life – and these women come from all walks of life. Abuse is not confined to any class, culture, creed or career.

“It takes many forms, including digital. By highlighting the issue within a public space, we are showing our support to those women and their children. By engaging with this art project, our communities are supporting us in saving lives.”

Head of the School of Design and Creative Arts at ATU, Dr Paddy Tobin, said that the team at the School of Design and Creative Arts, ATU, is honoured to be involved in this project, recognising the impactful work of COPE Galway Domestic Abuse Service.

“It’s important to commemorate their work over the past 40 years, in providing vital support services to women and families.”

Locations and Dates

The ‘We See You, We Hear You’ art installation is going on public view in different locations in Galway city and county on the following dates:

ATU School of Design and Creative Arts, Wellpark Road, Galway City, now until 30th November.
ATU Dublin Road Campus, Café Foyer, Galway City, 30th November to 5th December.
An Garda Síochána Western Region Headquarters, Renmore, Galway City, 12th to 16th December.
From early January, it will be travelling to many of the communities around Galway county, where COPE Galway provides a domestic abuse outreach service.
It will return to Galway city as part of COPE Galway’s activities for marking International Women’s Day on Wednesday, 8th March 2023.

For more details and updates about the COPE Galway Domestic Abuse Service ‘We See You, We Hear You’ art project, see www.copegalway.ie and its social media channels.

The ‘We See You, We Hear You’ art project was commissioned in partnership with the ATU Galway Radius Project and it is supported by Medtronic.

HSE urges people with respiratory symptoms not to visit hospitals

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November 29, 2022

galway daily news public urged to help contain spead of flu

Public Health West is encouraging the public to ensure they have no respiratory symptoms prior to visiting hospitals and long term care facilities.

With cases of RSV, flu and winter viruses increasing, people in Galway are being urged to make sure they don’t have symptoms such as a cough, sneezing, sore throat or breathlessness before visiting vulnerable people.

Public Health West issued the following advice:

If visiting someone who is vulnerable

– Ensure you do not have respiratory symptoms

– Wear a face mask

– Wash or sanitise your hands regularly

– Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces regularly

Take these extra actions to avoid respiratory infection

– Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes

– Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow

– Get your flu and COVID-19 vaccine if eligible

– Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds – especially after using the bathroom, blowing your nose, and before eating

– Wear a face mask in crowded areas

– Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces regularly

– Consider meeting outdoors in the fresh air as there is greater risk of infection in enclosed places

What to do if you have symptoms

– Stay at home when you are sick

– Stay away from those who are vulnerable

– Contact your GP if you need advice on how to manage your symptom

For more advice see: https://www2.hse.ie/under-the-weather/

Special fundraising CD in aid of Hand in Hand to be launched in Tuam

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November 29, 2022

galway daily news hand in hand fundraiser cd

A special fundraising CD in aid of children’s cancer charity Hand in Hand will be launched in the Ard Rí Hotel in Tuam on 2 December at 7pm.

Admission at the launch is €10 and includes a copy of the CD, food, and entertainment.

The national charity provides practical and emotional support to families facing childhood cancer throughout Ireland.

Hand in Hand offers support through services such as meal provision, childcare, counselling, play therapy, laundry and cleaning, all of which are provided free of charge.

The fundraising campaign and event is being led by Tuam Women’s Shed team who are active in various aspects of the town.

“I can’t praise the charity enough,” said Noreen Hynes of Tuam Woman’s Shed, whose young son Eoghan sadly passed away from cancer.

“Hand in Hand provides incredible support to families who have been affected by childhood cancer and all proceeds from the day and from CD sales will greatly assist the charity in their work.

“Thanks to everyone who is coming together, we know this will be a special day in the town.”

On behalf of Hand in Hand, Caroline O’Connor thanked the Women’s Shed in Tuam, particularly Noreen for this fundraising effort.

“On December 2nd in the Ard Rí Hotel, we will see the best that true community has to offer,” she said.

“Noreen will speak about her own journey and the role we can hopefully play in Hand in Hand. We’re very grateful for the support.”

The Galway Rural Development SICAP team have funded the group to create the CD and have funded the launch and have warmly praised two wonderful ambassadors for a very special charity.

Community Development Officer with GRD Melinda Coen-Ryan urged the Tuam community to support this worthy cause.

IHF says Galway hotels face uncertain year ahead

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November 29, 2022

Galway daily news Plans for city centre hotel development off Eyre Square

Hotels in Galway are facing an uncertain 2023 according to new analysis from the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) which underlined the challenges facing hotels and guest houses in the months ahead.

The federation says spiralling business costs, reduced forward bookings compared to 2019, and a planned 50% increase in the tourism VAT rate are all piling pressure on the industry which is still in recovery.

Despite an uplift in tourism during 2022 following the pandemic, overall hotel room occupancy rates are still significantly down on 2019 for the year to date.

For the first ten months of the year (January to October), average room occupancy levels were 71% nationally and 70% for the West.

Over the same period in 2019, however, room occupancy was at 80% nationally, highlighting the extent of lost ground still to be made up.

The economic outlook for the sector is now looking significantly less certain with pent-up demand quickly unwinding, overseas markets entering an economic downturn and consumer confidence reaching decade-lows across key overseas markets.

This is taking its toll on confidence within the sector with the overwhelming majority of hotels and guest houses saying they are concerned about the impact of global economic uncertainty on their business over the next 12 months, with 38% saying they are concerned and 56% indicating they are very concerned.

With overseas tourism levels forecast to be down 25% this year compared to 2019, forward bookings reported by hotels for next year remain challenging particularly for the UK and other parts of Europe.

The US market is a cause for less concern, with 36% reporting reduced bookings largely offset by the 35% reporting an increase (29% no change).

John Ryan, IHF Galway Branch Representative, said: “We are now heading into very turbulent times economically with growing uncertainty in our overseas markets.

“This comes at a time when escalating business costs are eroding confidence among hoteliers. Energy costs are a particular worry and are now running at 10-12% of total revenue for the average hotel, up from just 4% of revenue in 2019.”

Mr Ryan said that for an average 70-bedroom hotel this means an increase of €380,000 in annual energy costs.

“While the Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme introduced in Budget 2023 is welcome, the qualification criteria are far too restrictive for hotels.

“Hotels are also seeing increases across the cost of food suppliers (up 25% this year), beverages (up 16%), linen and laundry services (up 30%) and insurance costs (up 18%).”

Mr Ryan added that compounding the challenges facing businesses was the decision to increase the Tourism VAT rate to 13.5% at the end of February 2023.

Tourism VAT is currently at 9%, so the amount of VAT paid by tourists will increase by 50% – a decision that would make Ireland an outlier amongst countries in Europe who prioritise tourism.

“At a time when businesses are struggling with spiralling business and energy costs and sagging demand in many key international markets, the last thing the Government should be doing is adding to inflationary pressures.

“The looming increase of Ireland’s VAT means that consumers and overseas visitors will be paying the third highest tourism VAT rate in Europe. Countries that take tourism seriously, where it is a key part of their economy, have much lower tourism VAT rates – for example Portugal (6%), Malta (7%) and the Netherlands (9%).

“In these countries it is settled policy to support tourism with a lower VAT rate as its contribution to supporting jobs, businesses and the wider economy pays its way many times over.

“The 9% Tourism VAT rate is the right rate for the long-term sustainable development of Ireland’s largest indigenous industry, which in 2019 employed 270,000 people and returned over €2 billion to the exchequer in direct tourism-related taxes.

“We have done really well to rebuild employment levels in the tourism industry back to 90% of the pre-pandemic level. We should now be seeking to restore and grow tourism, and not undermine it with a VAT rate hike – particularly when business costs are skyrocketing, inflation is soaring and the global economy edges towards recession.”

University of Galway announces bursary scheme for student teachers

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November 29, 2022

galway daily news Máistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas students — Current students of the Máistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas programme at University of Galway. Credit – Aengus McMahon.

University of Galway has announced the extension of the Máistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas (MGO) bursary scheme for student teachers.

All student teachers who undertake the MGO programme at the University will receive an award of €2,000 per year, funded by An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta.

The MGO is a two-year Irish immersion Professional Master in Education programme, an initial teacher education programme that prepares teachers for Irish medium secondary schools.

Minister of State for Sport and the Gaeltacht Jack Chambers welcomed this ‘important development’ for student teachers who undertake the programme at University of Galway.

He said that it will ensure more highly skilled and exceptionally qualified teachers for Irish language medium schools.

“This development complements work by my department across a range of areas to support teaching through our language in Gaeltacht schools.

“I congratulate University of Galway on the extension of this scheme and look forward to the benefits it will bring for the teaching through Irish.”

Speaking at the launch of the bursaries, Jacqueline Ní Fhearghusa, Chief Executive of An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta, said that they are delighted to extend the number of bursaries available for student teachers.

“We understand only too well that there is a recruitment crisis across gaelcholáistí and scoileanna sa Ghaeltacht, which is a huge strain on principals and wider school communities,” she said.

“An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta recognises the importance of the MGO programme and the vital role it plays in providing suitably qualified teachers for the Irish medium schools.

“We are very pleased to be able to provide continued and extended support to the MGO in recognition of their work in this sector.”

Applications are now being accepted for the Máistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas through Postgraduate Applications Centre at www.pac.ie.

Dáithí Ó Sé flipping the switch on Galway Hospice Memorial Tree lights

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November 29, 2022

Galway Daily news Daithi Ó Sé returns for Galway Hospice Christmas lights

Galway Hospice will be back holding its annual Tree of Lights Celebration in person this year, with special guest Dáithí Ó Sé returning to flick the switch.

Galway Hospice staff and volunteers warmly welcome the return of families and friends to watch the switching on of the magical Christmas Tree lights.

Each light on the Galway Memorial Tree represents a tribute to a loved one, who is much loved and missed.

The Memorial Tree lights will be turned on in a special celebration on Sunday, December 4 at 5pm, the first time it’s back in person since 2019.

“The Tree of Lights Celebration is an important event in the Galway Hospice calendar and for the people of Galway, it is an opportunity to remember and celebrate our loved ones who have passed away.”

I would like to thank everyone who has sponsored a light on the Galway Memorial Tree this year,” explains Director of Fundraising and Communications at Galway Hospice, Charlene Hurley.

Hosted by Galway Tenor Frank Naughton, the event features festive music from Jimmy Buckley and Scoil Chaitríona Children’s Choir.

The lights on the Galway Memorial Tree will be officially switched on by special guest Dáithí Ó Sé, who enjoys attending the event each year.

To sponsor a light on the Galway Memorial Tree, visit www.galwayhospice.ie/lights, visit Galway Hospice in Renmore or call 091-770868.

Galway Hospice had extended its thanks to Phil Grealish and St Columba’s Credit Union Mervue for their contribution to the Tree of Lights Celebration.

Plans to demolish ruined building for shops and apartments

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November 29, 2022

Galway Daily news Plans to demolish ruined building for shops and apartments

Planning permission is being sought to demolish a ruined building in Loughrea, in order to make way for a mixed commercial and residential development.

An application has been made to the county council by a B. Shaughnessy to knock the ruined building facing onto Kelly Street, Loughrea.

In its place, the developer seeks approval for a three storey building, with two retail units on the ground floor level of the building.

The two upper floors would contain four one bedroom apartments, divided equally between the two floors.

An inspection report for the building submitted with the planning application notes that the building is in terrible condition, with walls either cracking or partially collapsed.

The roof of the building has long since completely caved in, and the inside of the building is covered in vegetation.

“It is not feasible or structurally safe to renovate this building,” the report by Clarke Construction Design states. “There are some significant structural issues with this building with settlement cracks in the rubble walls.”

“The gable walls have severe subsidence and cracking on it, All doors and windows throughout the dwelling have been removed or rotten away with time”.

“These openings are to be secured/blocked up to prevent public accessing the building as it is a severe public hazard, as the walls are on verge of collapsing as the roof is completely collapsed.”

The National Monuments Service recommended that an Archaeological Impact Assessment should be carried out, as the site is within the footprint of the historic town of Loughrea.

Galway County Council is currently due to make a decision on this planning application by December 13 of this year.

Supermac’s and Galway GAA announce new five year sponsorship

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November 29, 2022

Galway Daily GAA Supermac's and Galway GAA announce new five year sponsorship

Supermac’s and Galway GAA have today announced that they are continuing their long running partnership for another five years.

The two have agreed to a five year sponsorship deal, worth up to €3 million, that will take their longest running partnership up to 2027.

Supermac’s have been the sponsors of Galway hurling since 1991, and since 2013 have also backed the football squad.

The deal means that Supermac’s will sponsor all Galway Adult and Youth Intercounty teams.

Pat McDonagh, Managing Director of Supermac’s, said that “Both myself an Una are delighted to be continuing one of the longest running sponsorship relationships in the country.”

“The sponsorship of the county teams is an important part of our relationship with the GAA and the fact that we sponsor hundreds of clubs, schools and teams throughout the country is equally as important to us.”

“We are over 40 years in business and in the 32 years that we have been sponsoring
Galway we have always maintained a strong relationship with clubs and schools in the communities in which we are based.”

“We would like to wish all the teams the very best of luck during the upcoming campaigns,” Mr. McDonagh concluded.

Galway County Board Chairperson, Paul Bellew said “Galway GAA are delighted to extend our partnership with Supermac’s for another five years.

“Pat and Una McDonagh have been fantastic supporters and promoters of the GAA in Galway and indeed nationally for over 30 years now and we thank them for their continued support.”

“This new agreement represents a significant investment over the next five years and is a strong endorsement of our six flagship teams across hurling and football.”

“We look forward to working closely with Pat, Una and the team at Supermac’s over the next five years,” Paul Bellew said.

Two day roadworks taking place in Salthill this week

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November 29, 2022

Galway Daily news Roadworks to disrupt traffic near Portumna on Tuesday

Some traffic disruption is expected in Salthill for two days this week due to roadworks taking place.

Galway City Council is installing pedestrian crossings at Blackrock, Salthill and on the Tuam Road, south of the Joyce Road junction.

Pavement works at Blackrock will be undertaken this Wednesday & Thursday, November 30 and December 1.

Traffic management measures will be in place in Salthill while the resurfacing is underway.

Electrical commissioning works on ongoing at both locations, the city council has said, thanking the public for its patience while the projects are being completed.

Local business leaders taking to the street for COPE Galway

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November 29, 2022

Galway Daily news Local business leaders taking to the street for COPE Galway

The annual COPE Galway Business Leaders’ Sleep Out will return to Shop Street this Friday to raise funds for their homelessness services.

In the lead up to Christmas, COPE Galway is supporting 453 men, women and children in Galway who are availing of Emergency and Transitional Accommodation via the charity’s Homeless Service.

This includes 86 families with 199 children and 134 single people. Some of these families are spending their second or third Christmas Eve waiting for Santa in emergency accommodation, many in a B&B room.

Martin O’Connor, COPE Galway’s Assistant CEO remarked, “Just this week we heard the announcement of a shocking and unprecedented number of people who don’t have a place to call home in Ireland.”

“Here in Galway, this winter is proving extremely challenging for so many across our community due to the cost-of-living crisis.”

“With asking rents for any available properties in Galway spiralling out of control, the challenge has never been greater for anyone without a home to find an affordable place to live.”

“Meanwhile, our services at COPE Galway have never been under such pressure,” she added.

Some 40 local business leaders will be spending the night in their sleeping bags on Shop Street this Friday, December 2, in what is the biggest fundraiser of the year for COPE.

Over the past 10 years since it was first launched, the Business Leaders Sleep Out has raised over €1.25 million for the charity.

One participant, Matt Carty of Zimmer Biomet noted, “There are a myriad of circumstances that can lead to anyone becoming homeless.”

“It can be very difficult to find a way out of homelessness – COPE Galway supports people, including families and children, through each of the stages.”

“To experience childhood in a homeless setting is entirely unacceptable,” said Sinead Carey, COPE Galway’s Head of Homeless Service.

“Parents feel as if they are denying their children a normal childhood, though the homelessness is of no fault of theirs.”

“We support families with keeping as much a semblance of normality as possible while living in emergency accommodation.”

“Thanks to these funds raised, we’ve also been able to support families to move on from homelessness into a home of their own in a timely manner when the opportunity arises.”

COPE Galway supports people to secure accommodation, set up their homes and sustain independent living as well as provide skills development and befriending initiatives.

The funds raised by the Sleep Out have helped with initiatives such as community based housing, and outreach support for the most vulnerable homeless, those sleeping rough on the streets.

Man due before court in human trafficking investigation

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November 29, 2022

A man arrested in Galway yesterday as part of a human trafficking investigation is due to appear before court this morning.

Gardaí from Mullingar conducting an ongoing investigation into human trafficking and related crimes conducted a search in Galway on Monday.

During the course of the search, a man in his 30s was arrested and detained at Mullingar Garda Station.

He has since been charged, and will appear before Longford District Court at 10:30am on Tuesday morning.

Green light for dozens more bed spaces in Headford Road student accommodation

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November 29, 2022