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November 7, 2022

Galway Daily business 34 Galway venues chosen for Night-Time Economy Support Scheme

Galway’s night-time economy will get a shot in the arm from 34 bars, hotels, and cultural venues getting funding from the Night-Time Economy Support Scheme.

Minister Catherine Martin has announced this week the successful applicants for €4 million worth of funding under the scheme.

This scheme is meant to support entertainment in off-peak times to bring more people out in the evening and night, with a maximum grant of €10,000 per venue.

Well in excess of 2,000 events in every county across the country, have been approved for funding, they include live music, ranging from traditional music to electronic music, DJ nights, theatre, comedy, dance, literature, art and photographic exhibitions.

“A vibrant, diverse and inclusive night-time economy is important for our towns and cities, it boosts the local economy, makes our towns and cities more attractive places to visit and to live in,” Minister Martin said.

The Minister added that there has been a great reaction from the night-time sector to this pilot scheme.

“It is also extremely important that we ensure that there is a balance between alcohol and alcohol free activities to ensure that a wider demographic can engage with the Night-Time Economy and it was also really encouraging to see the response from this sector.”

The venues in Galway getting funding under the scheme are:

Veldon’s Seafarer
Roisin Dubh
Sult
Campbell’s Tavern
Lowry’s Bar
Reapy’s Bar
The Ol’ 55 Galway
O’Boyle’s
The Olde Brewery
The Black Gate
Kennys Bookshop & Art Galleries
Usshers Bridge Bar
Eyre Square Hotel
The Connacht Hotel
An Pucan
Doonmore Hotel
1520 Bar & The Residence Hotel
HYDE Hotel & Bar
Broderick’s Bar
Ballindereen Community Centre
Cornerstone
Siar Design Limited
Rumours Nightclub
Renvyle House Hotel
The g Hotel
Camp Street Cafe
The Hardiman Hotel
Seven Bridgestreet
The Cellar Bar and Restaurant
The House Hotel
O’Connell’s Bar
Trieste Café & Wine Bar
M.P. Walsh Public House
The Lamplight

Festive Reasons to Visit Galway

By

Angela Mc Bride

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November 6, 2022

There is no denying that the festive season is upon us with only a small number of weekends before Christmas Day. If you want to experience some of the festivities this November and December then Galway is a must visit destination. While the city is known for its lively nightlife, its variety of pubs, clubs and restaurants, there is so much more to see and do for all the family over the next two months.

If you fancy enjoying a weekend break in the city to make the most of the festivities there is also a great choice of hotels ranging from luxury boutique establishments to mid-range hotels that offer good value for money. That way you can take in some of the cultural activities, Christmas shopping and delicious local food.

Galway is a vibrant city that has lots to offer visitors. This season it has so much to see and do so there is certainly something for everyone here. Keep reading to find out the events to enjoy this festive season.

Black Friday shopping

Get a kick start on your Christmas shopping and make the most of the special deals available for Black Friday. Galway has a great array of retailers from fashion, footwear to homeware and electrical goods. There will be plenty of savings to be had in your favourite department stores and long-established shoe stores or favoured boutiques.

If the weather turns you away from going into the city, you can always enjoy the best discounts from your favourite online retailers from the comfort of home this Black Friday.

Elf Town

Galway Racecourse at Ballybrit is set to be transformed into a Christmas wonderland from November 25 to December 23. It is a family day out not to be missed. At Elf Town, you will be able to see all the elves and reindeer in action. You can see inside Mrs Claus’s kitchen and make cookie. There will be a chance to post a letter to Santa. You can explore the icy home of Jack Frost and the Enchanted Forest. Finally, you will enter Santa’s grotto and meet Mr Claus himself.

Christmas Market

The Christmas Market returns to Galway’s Eyre Square from November 11 to December 22. Open daily there will be more than fifty chalets filling the square. Here you will be able to enjoy delicious festive treats and shop for beautiful and unique crafts. It is the perfect spot to visit if you want to get into the Christmas spirit along with a crepe and a cup of warm mulled wine.

There will be plenty of entertainment too from amusement rides to live music, choirs and puppet shows. It is also suitable for all the family; little ones should keep an eye out for Santa’s train. He will be available to visit in his cosy cabin too.

Festive Light and Colour Experience

Part of the magic at this time of the year are the magical twinkling lights, the Festive Light and Colour Experience is the perfect experience. Beginning on November 18, the city lights will guide visitors throughout the city.

Wildlands Winter Wonderland

Less than a 20-minute drive from Galway city centre is Wildlands in Moycullen. The outdoor activity park will be transformed in a Christmas village and open to visitors at weekends from November 18. The Christmas village is complete with fairy trails and orienteering. You can tend to a sick reindeer at the reindeer hospital and visit Santa in his grotto. In keeping with the ethos of Wildlands every gift from Santa will be environmentally friendly and sustainable. There is also hot chocolate for the kids and mulled wine for the adults to warm up after an active day outdoors.

Local TDs seek cross-party support for Long Covid services

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November 6, 2022

The Regional Group in the Dáil has tabled a Dáil motion seeking the roll-out of specialist services to support those with Long Covid.

The group of nine TDs, which includes Deputies Denis Naughten, Sean Canney and Noel Grealish, wants to see immediate steps to be taken to support those who have not yet made a full recovery after Covid.

While most people will make a full and quick recovery from the virus, some adults and children can continue to experience ongoing symptoms.

They can also have a relapse after an initial recovery, and these symptoms can persist for several months or even years.

Long Covid is an umbrella name given to a broad range of some 200 post COVID symptoms which include conditions such as chronic fatigue and brain fog, which are experienced at least three months after the initial infection for significant periods of time, in some cases for over two years.

The debate will be broadcast live on Oireachtas TV and on Oireachtas.ie between 10am-12noon on Wednesday 9 November.

Female-led Galway medtech sales agency to showcase at top trade fair

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November 6, 2022

galway daily news avem tuam based company director lorraine — Photo by Martina Regan.

A Galway-based company will be showcasing amongst the world’s top medical device organisations at this month’s COMPAMED in Germany.

Avem, a medtech sales agency led by Tuam native Lorraine Eagleton, will attend the trade fair in Düsseldorf

One of the highlights of the fair will be a discussion on internationalisation, ‘Europe meets USA – High-Tech for Medical Devices’, which is aimed at improving cooperation within medical technology between manufacturers from Europe and the US.

Avem will be representing Ireland as the first Irish B2B Medical Device strategic sales agency dedicated to accelerating export sales for Irish and International SMES in EU and US.

The Tuam company, founded by Lorraine Eagleton in 2018, has a team of sales professionals with over 25 years’ experience in selling contract design, manufacturing, and packaging solutions to global OEMs in five continents.

Lorraine said that there is a huge lack of experienced sales professionals in B2B Medtec sales, and their aim to help improve this gap through Avem.

She said the company’s culture is built on the foundations of work-life balance and wellbeing, and that as a female leader she is all too aware of the challenges faced by professionals and their families with such a demanding occupation.

“We offer 4-day weeks, flexible hours and are all currently working remotely which means, our employees get to choose their hours of work and their location of work to best suit their life situation.

“All Avem asks of them is to bring their best to the job while here and carry out their duties with our core values in mind. Trust and Honesty, Passion, Optimism, integrity and Fun.”

Lorraine will be there along with her team, Eva Costelloe, also from Tuam and Waterford native Ruth Warren both who have 30 years of industry experience between them.

Avem is adding to its Tuam-based team in the coming year to further support their international client’s growth strategies in Europe and Israel.

Galway Flower & Garden Club announces Gala Night

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November 6, 2022

Galway Flower & Garden Club has announced a Gala Night at the end of this month with an award-winning floral artist in Galway city.

The ‘Holidays are Coming floral evening with John Paul Deehan will take place at the Menlo Park Hotel on Tuesday, 29 November at 8pm.

Doors open at 7.15pm and admission is €10 for members and €15 for non-members.

The fee includes a door prize, tea or coffee and goodies. All arrangements will be raffled on the night.

Pedestrian (80s) killed after road traffic incident in Clare

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November 6, 2022

Galway Daily news missing teen found safe

A man in his 80s has died after being hit by a car at around 7.45pm yesterday evening in Co. Clare.

The pedestrian died following the incident on the R352 at Mountshannon, a village in the east of the county.

The R352 was closed to allow for a technical examination to be conducted by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators.

Gardaí in Ennis are appealing for any witnesses to this collision to come forward.

Any road users with camera footage (including dash-cam) from the R352 between 7.30pm and 8.00pm on Saturday, are asked to make this available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Ennis Garda Station on 065 684 8100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Things you should write on your dating profile

By

Angela Mc Bride

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November 5, 2022

When it comes to online dating, your profile is your first impression. You want to make sure that you put your best foot forward and create an irresistible profile that will have people clamoring to message you. So what should you do to stand out in the best dating apps in Ireland among others?

First, be yourself! Be honest about who you are, what you’re looking for, and what you’re hoping to find in a partner. In terms of what to write, try to give potential partners a sense of your personality and interests. What are some of your hobbies? What kind of music do you like? What sort of movies do you watch?

These are all things that can help someone get to know you better and decide if they’re compatible with you.

Finally, don’t forget to proofread your profile before you publish it. Typos and grammatical errors will make you look careless and unprofessional.

Tips For Writing An Irresistible Online Dating Profile

Use great photos: Using great photos in your profile is essential. People are visual creatures, so make sure that your photos are high quality and showcase your best features.

Be honest: It’s important to be honest in your profile so that people know what they’re getting themselves into when they message you.

Use humor: A little bit of humor can go a long way in making your profile more attractive. Just make sure that your humor is appropriate.

Be positive: No one wants to date a Negative Nancy, so make sure that your profile has a positive vibe to it.

How often should you update your dating profile?

This depends on how often you are using the dating app or website. If you are only logging in once in a while, then there is no need to update your profile too frequently. However, if you are using the app or website on a daily basis, then it might be a good idea to update your profile more regularly.

Common mistakes people make when creating their dating profile

– Not putting enough effort into it: Your dating profile is one of the first things potential matches will see, so you want to make sure it’s well-written and reflects who you are.

– Being too negative: Nobody wants to date a Debbie Downer, so try to focus on the positive aspects of your life and personality in your profile.

– Being too vague: Be specific when describing yourself and what you’re looking for in a partner.

Minister announces changes for school leavers as CAO opens

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November 5, 2022

Galway Daily news Over 3,600 Galway students receiving Junior Cert results

Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris has confirmed school leavers will now be able to access information on traineeships from the Central Applications Office portal.

Since last year, students who log onto cao.ie/options can view all of their options including apprenticeships and further education and training.

This year, the range of options will be expanded to include traineeships.

Traineeships are schemes that combine classroom education and hands-on work experience, and are run by Education and Training Boards (ETBs) in conjunction with industry representative bodies and employers.

Speaking as the CAO opened for applications this week, Minister Harris said students begin to consider their options post-school, and it is important they are aware of all of the options available to them.

“Third level education is not confined to the walls of a university. Apprenticeships are third level. Post leaving cert courses are third level. Traineeships are third level,” he said.

“It is vital young people do not see one particular path as success. Success comes in different shapes and sizes.

“I want to thank the CAO, SOLAS and ETBI for continuing to work together to ensure our school leavers know all of the paths they can take to get to where they need to get to in life.”

Through www.cao.ie/options, 750 further education and training courses will be available with the offering expanding in range and type.

There are more than 75 traineeship programmes available on the portal.

‘Power To The People’ public meeting to be held in Galway city

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November 5, 2022

An energy-themed public meeting will take place in Galway City on Monday, 14 November at 7pm.

Organised by Éirigí For a New Republic, it will be held in the upstairs meeting room at Richardson’s pub in Eyre Square.

Local Éirígí representative Ian Ó Dálaigh will chair the meeting, while Cathaoirleach Éirígí Brian Leeson will give the main address.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Ó Dálaigh said that prices for electricity, natural gas, home heating oil, gasoline, and diesel have all risen to previously unheard-of heights over the past year.

He said that families across Ireland are already suffering as a result of these price rises.

“As we move into the colder, darker winter months, that suffering is set to worsen significantly.”

Ó Dálaigh said is a direct result of the policy choices made by the political establishment, who have ‘shown themselves to have no long-term solutions’.

“Instead they have chosen to hand over billions of euros of public money to Big Energy companies – companies that are already earning super profits.”

Brian Leeson’s presentation will show how these choices are part of a decades-long process of handing control of Ireland’s natural gas, oil and renewable energy resources over to the private sector.

Galway farmers flourish in new TG4 series

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November 4, 2022

Galway farmers will be showing how they have been growing strong in a new TG4 series taking in agriculture in the west of Ireland.

Mná na Talún follows four female farmers across the four seasons of a single farming year in this four part series starting on November 23.

Úna Ní Bhroin has spent 20 years building up Beechlawn Organic farm in Ballinasloe along with her husband Pádraig; and Hannah Doherty is a young, enterprising sheep farmer on the Derry-Donegal border.

Bríd Ní hIcí aims to be as self-sufficient as possible – growing vegetables and keeping pigs and goats on her small-holding in Gaoth Dobhair; and Clíona Ní Conghaile raises cattle in the traditional style on the unique landscape of Inis Mór, one of the most important areas of biodiversity in Ireland.

In the first episode spring is upon the farmers and we meet Úna Ní Bhroin and learn of her commitment to organic farming as an ethical and environmental choice – and the financial difficulties and stress this can create, particularly as a working mum of four children.

Hannah Doherty is in the middle of lambing season the busiest time of the year for Hannha and her husband Tommy. We witness Hannah handling a difficult birth that thankfully results in a safe delivery and we see Hannah hand feed the safely delivered lamb.

We meet Bríd Ní hIcí gathering seaweed on the beach in Gaoth Dobhair– it’s a natural fertiliser for use in her polytunnel, and reflects her interest in self sufficiency and natural farming methods.

We are also introduced to her small family of animals – her goats and horses, as well as Séamus and Pádraig, two young pigs being reared for their meat

Clíona Ni Chonghaile introduces us to the unique and stunning landscape of Inis Mór on the Árann Islands, and how it supports a particular type of cattle farming not found anywhere else in Ireland .

Clíona’s main concern is that this traditional way of farming is under threat as young people are more reluctant to stay on the island.

Episode 2 on the 30th November focuses on the work taking place on each of the farms during the summer months.

The third episode on the 7th of December takes us through the harvest in autumn and the final episode on the 14th of December sees the farmers prepare for the winter months.

This four-part series for TG4 made with the support of the Irish Language Broadcast Fund (ILBF) was produced by Dearcán Media.

Green light for new café in Galway City Centre

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November 4, 2022

Galway Daily news Green light for new café in Galway City Centre

An Bord Pleanála has approved plans to convert a building in Galway City Centre to a new café.

Cross HQ Holdings successfully appealed a decision by the city council refusing permission to change the ground floor of 12 Cross Street Upper, from retail to café use.

The city council had refused permission due concerns about fire safety, and substandard facilities for customers due to a lack of space.

This was appealed to An Bord Pleanála, arguing that fire safety issues should be resolved with the fire authorities, and are outside the planning remit.

It also said that a full fire safety solution can be provided before the premises is occupied.

As regards it being a substandard space, the developer said that there is a great mix of hospitality options in the city, of different sizes and nature.

The developer also said that outdoor seating could be provided, but a response from the city council said that this would be disruptive, as Cross Street Upper has not been pedestrianised.

An Bord Pleanála ultimately gave a green light for the new café, noting that it would contribute to the city centre activities and facilities.

Planning permission for the project was granted with seven conditions attached.

Small shop in the west confirmed as selling €1 million Lotto ticket

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November 4, 2022

Galway Daily news Small shop in the west confirmed as selling €1 million Lotto ticket — Store owners, Michael and Attracta Barrett celebrating a €1 million Lotto ticket sale. Pic. Keith Heneghan / Mac Innes Photography

A small shop in the west of Ireland has sold a Daily Million top prize lotto ticket worth an amazing €1,000,000.

The winning ticket for Thursday’s draw was sold at Turlough Stores in Turlough, just outside Castlebar.

It is the second big win for the store in just over a year, having sold a Lotto match 5 plus bonus ticket worth a whopping €595,521 on October 23 of last year.

The winning normal play lotto ticket for this week was bought on the day of the draw at the Mayo store.

At the announcement, store owner Michael Barrett said, “I could not believe it to get the call again so soon to say that our shop had sold another winning lottery ticket.”

“This is our first jackpot win, so it is extra special and it’s a huge win for the locality,” he added.

Michael and Attracta Barrett (centre) with staff Ann Kelly, Teresa Murphy, Martina Flynn and Kellie Garrett celebrating selling a Daily Millions winning ticket with a little the help from the National Lottery’s Sarah Ruane at Turlough Stores in Turlough, Co. Mayo today. Pic. Keith Heneghan / Mac Innes Photography.

“It is the perfect time of year for a win like this in the run up to Christmas, especially coming out of the pandemic and all the talk of doom and gloom about the economy.”

“It is great news for the local area, and we are hoping that the winner is local and comes forward to claim very soon.”

The Mayo winner, who is yet to come forward to claim their €1 Million prize, is advised to sign the back of their ticket, and keep it safe.

The winner should contact the National Lottery prize claims team on 1800 666 222 or email claims@lottery.ie and arrangements will be made for them to claim their life-changing prize.

Galway presenter wins national Irish Language Radio award

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November 4, 2022

Galway Daily news Galway presenter wins national Irish Language Radio award

Conemara native Barbara Nic Dhonnacha has taken home a prestigious national radio award this week for her work in Irish Language broadcasting.

She was awarded the ‘Best Irish Language Show on a Commercial Station’ on Wednesday evening at the Oireachtas Communications Awards Ceremony in Killarney.

“Is mór an onóir aitheantas a fháil ag Oireachtas na Gaeilge agus táim buíoch ó chroí as an gradam seo a bronnadh orm.,” Barbara said.

“It’s a huge honour to receive recognition at the Oireachtas na Gaeilge awards, everyone working through Irish in media in Ireland wants to be shortlisted here. I’m delighted to win this award doing what I love – Irish language radio.”

The weekly show “Cad ‘Déarfá le Gaillimh” airs Sundays from 6-7pm on Galway Bay FM.

Barbara joined the team earlier this year and also presents and produces the weekday drivetime show “On The Move” which airs 3pm-7pm Monday

Joint Policing Committee meeting taking place in Renmore this month

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November 4, 2022

A public meeting of the Galway City Joint Policing Committee will be held at the Connacht Hotel later this month.

The meeting will take place on November 22 at 7pm, and all members of the public are invited to attend.

Meetings of the JPC are held be elected representatives and senior members of An Garda Síochána to discuss policing in the Galway City area.

In order to attend in person, you must confirm your attendance by contacting Emma Johnston on (091) 536358 or email to candc@galwaycity.ie by Wednesday 9th November 2022.

It is proposed that discussion at this meeting would focus on the 4 strategic aims as outlined in the Galway City Joint Policing Committee Strategic Plan, which can be accessed on www.galwaycity.ie/jpc-meeting-downloads.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the meeting, to have their views heard and to put questions to the committee.

All questions concerning the general policing of Galway City should be submitted in writing to: JPC Secretary, Community & Culture Department, Galway City Council, City Hall, College Road, Galway, H91 X4K8 or by email to candc@galwaycity.ie.

Questions must also be submitted in writing by the deadline of November 9.

People can grab full Christmas shop for just €1 in Lidl Trolley Dash

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November 4, 2022

galway daily news lidl trolley dash — Brian Dowling Gourounlian and Arthur Gourounlian

Lidl Ireland has teamed up with celebrity duo Brian Dowling and Arthur Gourounlian to announce this year’s Trolley Dash.

The retailer’s biggest fundraiser offers shoppers the chance to win their entire Christmas food shop for just €1, in aid of charity partner Jigsaw.

Every store across the country will have one winner who will be challenged to a ‘Supermarket Sweep’ style dash around their local Lidl store to grab as much of their Christmas shopping as possible in just two minutes.

Tickets will go on sale in all Lidl stores across Ireland on Saturday 12 November for two just weeks.

100% of the proceeds from the ticket sales will be donated to Jigsaw, whose mission is to support youth mental health in Ireland.

Jigsaw provides vital support to more than 250,000 people in schools, communities, workplaces and clubs across Ireland, whether that be a listening ear, giving expert mental health advice and offering families, teachers, and those who support young people ways to cope.

Now in its eighth year, Lidl’s Trolley Dash has raised more than €2million for charity partners since its inception.

Commenting at the launch, Brian Dowling highlighted that all the funds raised from the Trolley Dash ticket sales, go to Lidl’s charity partner.

“It’s fantastic to see Lidl Ireland continue to support its communities through initiatives like the Trolley Dash,” he said.

“175 lucky shoppers will get the chance to bag their Christmas shopping for just €1, and with ALL proceeds from ticket sales going directly to Jigsaw we are thrilled to be part of this festive fundraiser.”

Elaine O’Connor, Head of CSR at Lidl Ireland, said that Trolley Dash is one of Lidl’s most important local fundraising activities of the year.

“We are delighted to announce the return of our annual Christmas fundraiser – Trolley Dash,” she said.

“For two weeks from the 12th of November customers will have the chance to buy tickets to enter to be in with the chance to win the ‘golden ticket’ to take part in a supermarket style sweep against the clock. Every store will have a winner and it’s only €1 to enter the draw.

“We have raised over €2million for our charity partners through the Trolley Dash initiative and last year alone we raised more than €280,000 for Jigsaw who we have been working with since 2018.

“We hope that this year will be the biggest yet and we would encourage all customers to get involved as every store has a winner.”

Tickets will be sold at Lidl checkouts nationwide between from Saturday 12 November until Sunday 27 November and shoppers can purchase as many tickets as they wish in support of Jigsaw.

All winners will be contacted directly by their local store and invited to take part in the Lidl Trolley Dash at their Lidl store, before store opening.

This gives the participants a clean run at the aisles to grab as many items on their Christmas shopping list as they can.

Dashes will take place on Saturday 3 December and Saturday 10 December.

Four special ambassadors launch Galway Hospice Christmas campaign

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November 4, 2022

galway daily news galwa hospice christmas — Sisters Sofia (8) and Shauna Cahill (6) and Eleanor (5) and Sophie Duane(7) writing their Galway Hospice Christmas Cards at McD's Christmas Shop. Photo: Seán Lydon.

Galway Hospice’s Christmas campaign has been launched by four very special ambassadors.

Sisters Sofia (8) and Shauna Cahill (6) from Ahascragh, Ballinasloe and sisters Sophie (7) and Eleanor Duane (5) from Abbey, Loughrea wore their finest festive red for the official launch of the Galway Hospice campaign at the Christmas Shop at McD’s.

The girls met and became friends through the hospice children’s bereavement workshop, following the sad passing of their dads, John Cahill and Nigel Duane.

The Hospice’s Christmas campaign plays an important role in supporting its care. Last year, the Hospice cared for close to 1,000 patients and their families.

Speaking at the launch, Charlene Hurley, Director of Fundraising & Communications, thanked the sponsors of the Galway Hospice Christmas campaign.

“We are very grateful to the local sponsors who support the Galway Hospice Christmas campaign,” she said.

“Their support allows 100% of the funds raised to directly support the work of the Hospice in our community.”

Galway Hospice’s best-selling Christmas Cards at €7 are sponsored by O’Toole’s Supervalu, Tuam; Radharc Landscaping, Moycullen; Ultimate Office, Galway; Busker Brownes Bar & Kirby’s Restaurant and EJ King’s Bar & Restaurant, and Signfit Branding.

The Galway Hospice 2023 Calendar (€10), which features beautiful scenes of Galway, is sponsored by Snap.

Other gifts include new Tree Decorations (€5) available in robin, star and nativity designs, the very popular Angel Pins (€4), Wrapping Paper (€6) and Weekly Draw Gift Voucher (€66.04).

People can also support Galway Hospice this Christmas by sponsoring a light on the Galway Memorial Tree.

For the first time since 2019, the lighting of the tree with special guest Dáithí Ó Sé will take place outside Galway Hospice at 5pm on Sunday 4 December.

All are welcome to enjoy live music and festive treats. The Galway Memorial Tree is sponsored by St Columba’s Credit Union, Mervue.

Schools and workplaces can also support Galway Hospice by breaking out their best Christmas jumpers and joining Festive Fashion Friday on Friday 16 December.

See the Hospice website or call 091-770868 to shop online and for more information on all the ways to support Galway Hospice this Christmas.

ByoWave named ‘Best Early Stage’ company in national competition

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November 4, 2022

galway daily news byowave — Shane O'Hanlon, Funding for Growth Manager at InterTradeIreland and Eibhlin O’Riordan, co-founder of ByoWave.

Galway firm ByoWave has been named ‘Best Early Stage’ company at the Connacht and Leinster regional final of the 2022 InterTradeIreland Seedcorn Investor Readiness Competition.

ByoWave presented an investment proposal to a panel of judges that included active investors, and fought off tough competition to walk away with €20,000 and a place in the overall Seedcorn final later this month.

The winners from four regions will go head-to-head in Belfast on 24 November.

ByoWave makes modular, accessible and customisable video game controllers for people with disabilities.

Co-founder Eibhlin O’Riordan said: “Accessibility barriers affect 40% of gamers who have a disability, and they are being socially excluded from one the world’s most popular forms of interacting.”

Brandon Blacoe, CEO and co-founder of ByoWave, said that they are grateful to the Seedcorn programme team for all their support and encouragement as part of the competition.

“Eibhlin and I have been working with disabled gamers for the past two and a half years to engineer solutions that help people overcome this barrier” he said.

“We are delighted to secure the incredible €20,000 prize fund from the regional heat towards our product development.”

Established in 2003, Seedcorn has helped more than 6,900 companies, giving entrants the opportunity to become investor ready, with expert feedback on business plans and pitches, and exposure to real life investors.

Free circus education conference to take place in Galwa city

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November 4, 2022

A free circus education conference will take place this month at the O’Donoghue Centre at University of Galway.

The two-day conference will explore the application of circus arts education at all levels to promote creativity, inclusion and social change.

Hosted by Galway Community Circus, University of Galway – Drama and Theatre Studies and the Irish Street Arts, Circus and Spectacle Network, the conference is aimed broadly at those already engaged in youth circus practice as well as participants with an interest in youth circus.

The conference, the first of its kind in Ireland, will feature practical workshops on pedagogic approaches to promoting inclusion and creativity and discussions across a range of topics.

It will also include the premiere performance of the Galway Community Circus Youth Ensemble.

“I’m looking forward to welcoming everyone to the conference, hearing all the contributions and to plotting a way forward together towards the future recognition and growth of the value and important role that this inspiring sector can play in shaping the next generations,” said Lucy Medlycott, Director of the Irish Street Arts, Circus and Spectacle Network.

November also marks the beginning of Galway Community Circus’s residency at the University of Galway.

The Circus was awarded funding through the Arts Council of Ireland’s Young People, Children and Education Residency Scheme and will deliver teaching across three departments: Drama and Theatre Performance, Early Childhood Education and Children’s Studies.

“We’re thrilled to co-host a conference that is all about putting circus into education. Youth Circus is a powerful tool for social change,” said Ulla Hokkanen, Executive Creative Director at Galway Community Circus.

“We’re also delighted to be in residence at the University of Galway as it will allow us time and support to evaluate, codify and document our methodology.

“The residency also follows our 7-year research project called Circus++ which resulted in the creation of a curriculum for the world’s first degree-level course for youth and social circus teachers.”

The Circus Education: Creativity and Inclusion in Learning Conference will be held Friday, 18 and Saturday 19 November at the O’Donoghue Centre, University of Galway.

The conference is free of charge, but booking is essential here.

Top Danish chef to collaborate with JP at Aniar

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November 4, 2022