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Garda appeal for missing teenage girl in Galway City

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Galway Daily news Garda appeal for missing teenage girl in Galway City

Gardaí are appealing to the public for information that could help find a 14 year old girl missing from Galway City.

Mia O’Neill has been missing from the Salthill area of Galway City since yesterday, Wednesday, October 19.

Mia is described as being 5’3’’ in height, of medium build, with brown hair and blue eyes.

When last seen, it’s understood Mia was wearing a purple & black North Face puffer jacket, grey tracksuit bottoms and black runners.

Any person with information is asked to contact Salthill Garda station on 091 514720, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Irish Water carrying out works to improve water quality in Galway city

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Galway Daily news Water outages in Moycullen

Irish Water is replacing over 325 meters of ageing backyard service connections along Munster Avenue in Galway city this week.

The works are being carried out to improve water quality and reduce the amount of water lost to leakage.

They were described as a ‘critical step in conserving a precious resource’ and reducing high levels of leakage which have caused outages for customers.

Irish Water thanked all customers in Munster Avenue who have engaged with them and assisted in the provision of the backyard services programme.

Speaking about the benefits of the project, Gerry O’Donnell, Regional Delivery Lead with Irish Water, said that old backyard service connections continue to impact communities right across Ireland, causing low pressure and supply disruption.

“Replacing these old water mains and service connections in poor condition will eliminate existing leaks and significantly reduce the amount of clean drinking water lost into the ground,” he said.

“We would like to thank the local residents in Munster Avenue for facilitating these works and working with us to provide a more secure and reliable water supply for generations to come.”

Raw sewage flowing into four Galway areas every day

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galway daily news raw sewage galway

Raw sewage was being discharged into the rivers and sea every day during the summer in four Galway areas, a new EPA report has found.

An Spidéal, Roundstone, Ahascragh and Carraroe were among 32 towns and villages across the State that still had raw sewage flowing into the environment.

The EPA report released today found that it will take a multi-billion euro investment and at least two decades to get all treatment systems up to standard.

The issues in Carraroe are not expected to be resolved by Irish Water until 2027, while in the other three Galway areas, new treatment plants will be functional by 2024.

The EPA said that it is important that Irish Water allocates sufficient funding and resources in its next investment plan to complete all outstanding work needed to resolve the environmental concerns in these areas.

€100,000 fund announced for Women’s Sheds

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galway daily news womens sheds ireland
PIC JULIEN BEHAL PHOTOGRAPHY

A new fund of €100,000 has been announced by Minister Heather Humphreys to support Women’s Sheds across the country.

The initiative, the first of its kind, recognises the growing number of Women’s Sheds across the country, which do not currently operate under a single national representative body like Men’s Sheds.

Minister Humphreys this week met a delegation of women from across the country who are actively involved in running Women and Sister Shed’s in their communities.

The grants which will be in the region of €1,000 to €2,000 could be used to assist Women’s Sheds to expand within their communities, to run activities or to help them with their running costs such as insurance or rental costs.

Announcing the new initiative, Minister Humphreys said many people will be familiar with the Men’s Sheds, of which there are now 400 nationwide and a national body.

She said that the Women’s Shed movement is a relatively new phenomenon in comparison and that many of the groups she spoke to this week have only been in existence for a year or less.

“I passionately want to support our Women’s Sheds to grow however I’m conscious that without a representative body, it is more difficult for Women’s Sheds to avail of State support,” said Minister Humphreys.

“And so, for the first time, I’m putting aside a special fund of €100,000 specifically for our Women’s Sheds.

“My message today is clear – if you are part of a Women’s Shed, please get in touch with my Department because I want to support the fantastic work that you do.”

Women’s Shed interested in availing of funding should get in touch with the Department of Rural and Community Development via womenssheds@drcd.gov.ie.

Over 15% of students consider leaving college due to cost of living

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Galway Daily news 30 percent of University of Galway graduates got first class honours this year

Nearly one in six third level students have ‘seriously considered’ withdrawing from their courses due to financial or employment reasons, the latest National Survey For Students has found.

Almost 10% of students surveyed said they have considered leaving for financial reasons, while a further 5.3% said that they have thought about it because of employment.

Overall, just 63.4% of students said they have not ‘seriously considered’ abandoning their courses.

Over 13% of those who said that they have considered it said that it related to personal or family reasons.

Postgraduate representative of University of Galway’s governing authority Criodán Ó Murchú said that the statistics show us the unfortunate reality that students are feeling the brunt of the cost of living crisis.

He said that almost 10% of students seriously considering withdrawing due to financial concerns shows that the situation is not sustainable for much longer.

“This will further add to the current plight of mental health issues affecting students in University of Galway, of which there are huge numbers.”

Mr Ó Murchú said students are no longer working at weekends for pocket money, and that they are working multiple days, before and after their lectures, just to scrape by.

“On top of that you have highly skilled PhD workers being paid far less than a living wage for their work. This could be counteracted using surplus budgetary funds to pay its workers fairly,” he said.

On potential solutions to the issue Mr Ó Murchú suggested rent freezes, increasing SUSI thresholds, breakfast provided by the university and abolishing fees.

“Nothing should be off the cards with how desperate the situation is. We need the government to recognise the value students inject into society and their communities. Otherwise, emigration will move from idea to reality.”

Brighter day ahead for Galway as thunderstorm warning lifted

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Galway Daily weather Falling temperatures and weekend rain mark weather for rest of the week

Met Éireann’s thunderstorm warning has been lifted as the forecasters expect a largely dry day today, with some bright or sunny spells in parts of the county in the evening.

The skies across many parts of Ireland were lit up last night by huge flashes of lightning, and Met Éireann’s status yellow and orange warnings lasted into the early hours.

Today will be much calmer across the county, with east Galway seeing more of the brighter spells this evening, with the western shores remaining cloudier.

It will be mild for the time of year, with high temperatures of 15 to 18 degrees in moderate southeast breezes.

Some isolated showers are also possible later in the evening, but it should remain mostly dry.

It will be breezy on Friday with showers or longer spells of rain, but there will also dry spells and occasional bright spells. High temperatures tomorrow will be 14 to 17 degrees Celsius.

How To Increase the Chances of Entering a Prestigious University

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Galway Daily news 30 percent of University of Galway graduates got first class honours this year

Are you dreaming of attending a prestigious university? While there is no foolproof formula for guaranteed acceptance, there are steps you can take to improve your chances. 

#1. Start preparing early

One way to increase the chances of getting into a prestigious university is to start preparing early. This means taking rigorous and challenging courses in high school, as well as participating in extracurricular activities that align with your academic and career interests. It also means staying on top of important test dates for standardized exams like the SAT or ACT, and studying effectively for them.

Additionally, starting early allows for more time to seek out and apply for scholarships or other financial aid opportunities. Overall, beginning the college application process with a solid foundation sets you up for success in the long run.

#2. Get involved in extracurricular activities

Joining extracurricular activities while being at school, are can demonstrate your passion and dedication in a specific field. It also allows you to showcase your leadership skills and ability to work well with others. Universities often value well-rounded students who have experience outside of academics. 

Also, being part of extracurriculars can provide opportunities for you to receive recommendations or awards that can strengthen your college application. It is important to choose activities that align with your interests and goals, and actively participate and contribute to the organization. This shows universities that you are committed and dedicated, increasing your chances of getting accepted into a prestigious university.

#3. Build connections with teachers and mentors at school

One way to increase the likelihood of getting accepted into a prestigious university is by building strong connections with teachers and mentors who can provide strong letters of recommendation. These recommendations can attest to your academic capabilities and personal character, making you stand out among other applicants.

To start developing these connections, actively participate in class discussions and make an effort to get to know your teachers and mentors. Show them that you are dedicated and motivated by asking for extra help or seeking opportunities for growth outside of the classroom, such as joining clubs or volunteering.

Another important factor in admissions decisions is the quality of your application essays. When writing these essays, it’s important to show not only strong writing skills but also a unique perspective and passion for the topic.

One option for ensuring a high-quality essay is to hire a professional writer to do your essay for you. https://typemyessay.me/ can be a good option for those who may not have the time or writing skills to craft a standout essay on their own.

#4. Maintain a high GPA and strive for academic excellence in all courses

Maintaining a high GPA is one of the primary factors that top universities look for in potential applicants. It shows your dedication and ability to excel academically. Strive for excellence in all of your courses, even if they may not be related to your intended major. This demonstrates a strong work ethic and willingness to challenge yourself intellectually. 

#5. Research and apply to universities that align with your goals 

This means looking into the specific programs and opportunities offered at each university, as well as their overall reputation in your desired field. Additionally, it’s important to consider factors such as location, campus culture, and extracurricular opportunities. 

By carefully evaluating and selecting universities that align with your aspirations, you will be able to demonstrate a strong fit and interest in the university during the application process.

#6. Present a well-rounded, unique, and compelling application package to the university admissions office

When applying to a prestigious university, it is important to present a well-rounded application package. This means showcasing not only academic excellence but also involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership skills, and unique experiences or talents. Admissions officers want to see that applicants are not just good students, but also well-rounded individuals who will contribute to the university community. 

One way to stand out in your application is by showcasing a unique talent or passion. This could be through an admission essay, highlighting a special project you completed, or even submitting a portfolio of your work. 

However, if writing is not your strong suit, do not worry. There are a variety of services and resources available to help you write your essay and make it stand out from the rest. Whether you need assistance with brainstorming, editing, or completing the entire essay, domyessay.me resource can provide support and guidance to ensure that your essay positively showcases who you are as a person and student.

#7. Don’t let any rejections discourage you from continuing to pursue your academic goals

It can be easy to feel discouraged and defeated when faced with rejections from prestigious universities, but it’s important to remember that rejection is not a reflection of your worth or potential. Keep in mind that admissions boards make their decisions based on a variety of factors, many of which are out of your control. 

Instead of dwelling on the rejections, continue to work hard and pursue your academic goals. Remember that there are countless paths to success, and a prestigious university is not the only route to achieve it. Keep striving for excellence and never give up on your dreams. There will always be other opportunities and options available to you.

Additionally, consider hiring expert paper writers who are reliable to assist with your college paper writing tasks. This can free up some of your time to focus on other important commitments and tasks, while still producing high-quality work for your assignments. 

Everything You Need to Know About CBD Bud in Ireland

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CBD bud, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. It is one of the many compounds, known as cannabinoids, that are found in the cannabis plant.

Unlike its psychoactive cousin THC, CBD does not produce a “high” or any other form of intoxication. However, it can have a number of potential therapeutic benefits for people.

CBD or Cannabidiol is legal in Ireland as a food or dietary supplement. However, the Irish government has placed a number of restrictions on its use. CBD bud can only be sold in licensed stores and must be labelled as a ‘novel food’. This means that it can only be sold as a food supplement and not as a medication. All products must contain less than 0.2% THC content. 

Despite these restrictions, CBD bud is becoming increasingly popular in Ireland. This is due to its potential health benefits, which include relief from anxiety, pain, and inflammation among others. If you’re considering trying CBD bud or CBD gummies, then read on for everything you need to know before you purchase.

The Basics 

CBD bud is a new and exciting way to enjoy CBD in Ireland. CBD bud is made from the highest quality CBD flowers and is grown in Ireland. CBD bud is a great way to enjoy the benefits of CBD without the psychoactive effects of THC. 

Bud is non-addictive as it comes from the hemp plant and has no known negative side effects. Cannabidiol as a compound is legal in Ireland and can be purchased online or in stores once sold as a food supplement. 

Where to Buy CBD Bud in Ireland

CBD Bud or flower can be purchased online from a few places on the island of Ireland. One popular e-commerce store for CBD Bud is Dr. Hemp Me. This brand recently launched their latest addition to an ever-growing hemp range – CBD Bud. 

Delivery is next working day once you place your order before 2.30pm. Customer service contact is simple with a live chat open from 9am to 9pm Monday – Sunday. Find relevant laboratory test reports on each product page too, verifying sourcing and quality. 

The Benefits 

CBD bud has a wide range of potential benefits that can be helpful for people in Ireland. Some of these potential benefits include: reducing anxiety, relieving pain, improving sleep, and reducing inflammation. 

CBD as a compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. Such results can be reviewed in small-scale research studies and trials carried out on both humans and animals

CBD bud is also non-addictive and does not produce the same psychoactive effects as THC, making it a safe and effective option for those looking for alternatives to nicotine or otherwise. 

The Drawbacks 

There are a few potential drawbacks to using CBD bud or flower. First, CBD bud or flower is not currently regulated in Ireland. This means that there is no guarantee of its quality or safety. 

For this reason, it is important to choose a reputable brand to purchase from who can verify their bud or flower has undergone relevant testing. Tests may include cannabinoid content, metals and pesticides. 

Second, CBD bud or flower is not currently available in large quantities in Ireland. This could make it difficult to find a reliable source of CBD bud or flower. As the market grows however it is possible to find a good supplier with verified customer reviews and great customer service. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is CBD bud?

CBD bud is a type of cannabis that is high in CBD and low in THC. CBD bud is used for medical purposes and is said to have many health benefits.

How do I use it?

CBD flower can be consumed in many ways, including smoking, vaporizing, and using it as an ingredient in edibles. When smoking or vaporizing CBD flower, start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed. CBD edibles can be made by infusing CBD oil or butter, which can then be used to make a variety of recipes.

What is the best way to take Cannabidiol bud?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to take CBD bud will vary depending on the individual’s needs and preferences. However, some tips on how to take CBD bud include:

– Start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed.

– Take it with food to boost absorption.

– Use a vaporizer or water pipe for quicker effects.

How is the bud harvested?

CBD bud is harvested by hand, using a small, sharp knife. The buds are cut from the stem and then placed in a drying room or hung to dry. Once the buds are dry, they are trimmed and then packaged for sale.

What are the benefits?

CBD bud, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis that has been shown to have a variety of potential health benefits. These benefits include reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and improving sleep.

CBD has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety in both animal and human studies. In a human study, participants who took CBD experienced significantly less anxiety than those who took a placebo.

The Future 

CBD bud, or hemp flowers, are a popular product among CBD users. CBD bud contains high levels of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant.

Despite its popularity, there is a lot of misinformation surrounding CBD bud. Let’s take a look at some of the most common myths about CBD bud, and the facts that dispel them. 

Myth #1: CBD Bud Is Illegal 

One of the most common myths about CBD bud is that it is illegal. CBD bud is derived from the hemp plant, which is a variety of the cannabis plant that contains less than 0.2% THC, the psychoactive compound that gets users ‘high’. Because of this, hemp and CBD products derived from hemp are legal in to purchase and consume in Ireland. 

Myth #2: CBD Bud Gets You High 

Another common myth about CBD bud is that it will get you high. This is also not true. CBD bud contains high levels of CBD, which is a non-psychoactive compound. This means that it will not get you high. In fact, CBD is often used to counteract the psychoactive effects of THC

Myth #3: CBD Bud Is Addictive 

Another myth about CBD bud is that it is addictive. This is not true. CBD is not addictive. In fact, it is often used to treat addiction. CBD bud can help to reduce the cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with addiction. 

Myth #4: CBD Bud Is Only for Smoking 

Another myth about CBD bud is that it is only for smoking. This is not true. CBD bud can be used in a variety of ways, including edible products, tinctures, and topical products.

Myth #5: CBD Bud Is Expensive 

Another myth about CBD bud is that it is expensive. This is not always the case. CBD bud is often more affordable than CBD oil, and it can be found in a variety of different price ranges. CBD bud is a popular product among CBD users.

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Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of Dr Hemp Me, and does not represent the opinion of Galway Daily, and should not be taken as legal advice.

Connemara hotel attends French luxury travel event

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galway daily news ballynahinch castle in paris for travel event
Ana Luis, Emilie Guillaume, Anna Mannion and Olivia Frawley, all Tourism Ireland); Garrett Power, Muckross Park Hotel & Spa; Claire O'Kane, Mussenden Sea Salt; Michelle Blake, Dylan Hotel; Patrice McGurk, Hastings Hotels; Carol Hinch, Ballynahinch Castle Hotel; Mylène Campalto, Moloney & Kelly; Ruthie McGrath, The Merrion; Karen Fleming, Cashel Palace Hotel; Michelle Maguire, Ireland's Blue Book; Úna Connolly, Jameson Distillery Bow St.; Monica MacLaverty, Patrick Harty and Christine Blanc, all Tourism Ireland, at a luxury networking event in Paris organised by Tourism Ireland. Pic – Alexandre Nestora

Ballynahinch Castle Hotel was among ten Irish tourism companies to attend a top French luxury travel event on a riverboat in central Paris.

The networking event organised by Tourism Ireland was also attended by 34 French luxury travel buyers who met and did business with the Irish companies.

The event involved a workshop of one-to-one meetings, a presentation, as well as networking – providing an excellent opportunity for the tourism companies from Ireland to promote their luxury products and services.

Guests also enjoyed the best of food from Ireland, as well as performances by the Nova Quartet and Winnie Ama.

Monica MacLaverty, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Southern Europe, said: “Our networking event was an excellent opportunity to highlight our luxury tourism offering – from our boutique hotels, castles, luxury resorts and spas, to our rich culture and heritage, and not forgetting our world-class golf.

“Events like this provide a valuable opportunity for Tourism Ireland and our partners to meet, and network with, influential luxury travel buyers, helping to secure a greater share of their business for the island of Ireland in 2023 and beyond.”

Greater measures needed to tackle growing poverty says local TD

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galway daily news claire kerrane at dáil child maintenance

Roscommon-Galway TD Claire Kerrane has called for greater measures to tackle growing levels of poverty in the country.

The call comes in response to the EAPN’s Report on Poverty which was launched this week, coinciding with International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

The report echoes findings from the Central Statistics Office (CSO), and states that the ‘at risk of poverty’ rate was 11.6% in 2021, with over 581,000 people living below the poverty line.

In addition, the report outlines poverty-related issues faced by a range of groups in the State as a result of soaring living costs, the housing crisis, rising energy costs and income inadequacy.

Deputy Kerrane said it is unacceptable that over half a million people in the State are living below the poverty line.

She said that while there was a modest reduction in at risk and enforced deprivation rates in 2021, these reductions are not enough.

“We should be seeing consistent reduction in these rates year-on-year,” said Deputy Kerrane.

The Sinn Féin TD said that if the Government is serious about tackling poverty, they need to look to providing social welfare supports which actually protect those who rely on it.

She said that her party wants to reform our Social Protection system by ensuring that all social welfare rates are adequate and protect those who rely on them from poverty.

Met Éireann issues thunderstorm warning for Galway

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galway daily news Lightning and flooding forecast as Thunderstorm warning issued

Met Éireann has extended its warning for thunderstorms to Galway this afternoon, with bands of thunder and lightning expected to cause disruption in places this evening.

The status yellow warning in Galway is now in place and will be lifted at 10pm today, Wednesday.

This evening’s warning comes after Met Éireann issued orange warnings for rain and thunderstorms in the south-east of the country.

Most counties in Ireland also have a warning for rain, but Galway seems likely to avoid the worst of the heavy rainfall.

Donegal, Tyrone, Sligo and Mayo are the only counties which have not been issued warnings by Met Éireann or the Met Office.

Galway Chamber receives Diversity and Inclusion Award

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Galway Daily news Galway Chamber Business Awards 2021

Galway Chamber has received a bronze ‘Investors in Diversity’ accreditation from the Irish Centre for Diversity.

The Chamber hailed the award as a ‘starting point’ in their efforts to promote greater awareness and understanding of diversity and inclusion across Galway’s corporate culture.

The Irish Centre for Diversity praised the Chamber for having accessible, relevant policies in place which represent many different aspects of equality, diversity and inclusion.

They also noted how these many policies demonstrate Galway Chamber’s ‘dedication to developing and maintaining an inclusive, supportive culture and diverse workforce’.

“It is clear from policies and procedures that bullying, harassment and discrimination will not be tolerated and any incidents will be dealt with seriously, swiftly and confidentially,” the award report said.

Speaking about the award, Kenny Deery, CEO of Galway Chamber said that it is great to receive this award as they have taken strides to enhance diversity and inclusion across the Chamber.

He said however, that it is a journey, and that they fully acknowledge that there is still further road to travel.

“We view this accreditation as the starting point and we will be continuing our efforts to further improve our practices and policies,” said Mr Deery.

“As part of that activity we also want to be in a position to promote greater awareness and understanding of these issues across Galway’s corporate culture.

“Galway Chamber’s role is to lead on these aspects and we hope as our efforts to enhance our own diversity and inclusion activities progress, we will be able to encourage other companies across Galway to further embrace the importance of these values.”

Photos | Contestants take on The Kube for Galway Hospice

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Beauty influencer Ally McGinn taking on the challenge at the Clayton Hotel at the weekend

‘The Kube’ fundraising event was held at the Clayton Hotel at weekend in aid of Galway Hospice.

Contestants took part in challenges inside a perplex cube while trying their best to keep their cool.

Steven Frayne emerged as the winner as he completed the final challenge in the quickest time. He was presented with his winnings of 1,000. 

Galway Hospice extended a special thank you to contestants who took on the challenge and raised funds for Galway Hospice, to businesses across Galway for sponsoring the event and for supplying raffle prizes, and to everyone who attended on the night.

 

 

 

Olympian Fiona Murtagh concentrating in The Kube.
Contestant Evan Connolly from Zone N Fitness.
Pictured L to R Charlene Hurley, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Galway Hospice, Anne Rabbitte TD, Galway Hospice volunteer Jim Hynes and MC Patrick McDonnell.
Contestant Kieran O’Malley from the Connacht Hospitality Group.
St Thomas’ hurlers L to R; Seán Fallon, Dara Cormican, Gerald Kelly, MC Patrick McDonnell, David Sherry, Damien Finnerty and Éanna Burke.
Kube Winner Steven Frayne receiving his winnings from Charlene Hurley, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Galway Hospice, alongside MC Patrick McDonnell.
Back row L to R; Ros na Rún crew and actors Dara Madden, Siobhán Haverty, Conal O Céideach, Seán Misteál, Gearóid Kavanagh, Carol Plunket and Máire Éilís Ní Fhlatharta. Front Row L to R, Grainne Bleasdale, Caitríona Ní Dhomhnaill, Pól Ó Gríofa, Sarah Beth Henry.

To keep in touch with other events in aid of Galway Hospice, visit galwayhospice.ie/events or call fundraising on 091 770868 for further information.

Almost €800,000 for road resurfacing on the Aran Islands

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Galway Daily news Irish Language Plan approved for the Aran Islands

Just under €800,000 has been awarded for a number of road repair projects on the Aran Islands.

Minister Heather Humphreys said that the funding will be used to resurface three roads on Inis Mór and Inis Oírr

  • Inis Mór – Eoghanacht road resurfacing – €315,000
  • Inis Mór – Bóthar Ó Thuaidh resurfacing – €297,000
  • Inis Oírr – Resurfacing of L-5250 – €175,500

“By investing in these road projects, we will improve mobility on the islands for the benefit of the local community and visiting tourists,” Heather Humphreys said.

“Supporting our islands is a key commitment under ‘Our Rural Future’, the government’s 5-year rural development policy.”

It is unlikely that these projects could be carried out by the end of 2022 due to logistical issues with transporting equipment to the islands in poor winter weather.

These grants have been awarded now so that the council can carry out preparatory works suchnas procuring equipment.

This with a view towards completeting these road resurfacing projects as early as possible next year.

Race in Pink returns for breast cancer fundraising

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Galway daily sport Race in Pink returns for breast cancer fundraising

The annual Race in Pink day at the Galway Races will be back this month to carry on fundraising for breast cancer research.

Race in Pink will take place during the October Galway Races Festival on Sunday, October.

Since its launch in 2018, Race in Pink has so far raised over €250,000 National Breast Cancer Research Institute.

A ticket for the day long event gets you admission for the race day, a hospitality badge, a drinks reception, a four course lunch with wine, live music, and a tipster for the horse races if you feel like a flutter.

Tickets for the event cost €120 per person, and are available from www.RaceInPink.ie or call the National Breast Cancer Research Institute office on 091 863 917 or email Ida on hello@breastcancerresearch.ie.

Music for Galway singing a €1 million tune

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Galway Daily music Music for Galway receives €1 million European funding
Anna Lardi, executive director and Finghin Collins, artistic director of Music for Galway. Coordinating partners in Songs of Travel. Photo: Andrew Downes, Xposure

Music for Galway is singing a merry tune after being chosen to receive €1 million in Creative Europe funding for its Songs of Travel project.

MfG with its CELLISSIMO festival partnered with three other music festivals, Järna Festival Academy in Sweden, Valdres Sommersymfoni in Norway and the Piano Biennale in The Netherlands.

The four festivals have teamed up with Causa Creations, an Austrian game development studio, for Songs of Travel.

This project will use music to raise awareness and create empathy towards climate change and migration, and will develop and implement a sustainable model of operation for specialised classical music festivals.

“I am so excited about this project. The idea grew out of our first CELLISSIMO festival where, back in 2019, we interacted with musicians that had recently settled Galway,” says Anna Lardi, festival director of CELLISSIMO.

“For the same festival we invited Swedish cellist Jakob Koranyi who travelled to Galway by land and sea, such is his conviction in terms of respect for our environment.”

“These two events planted a seed and here we are, five countries working together on the presentation of music, raising empathy towards each other and our planet and telling stories through music and a game.”

Songs of Travel includes the co-commissioning of five works of contemporary classical music by composers connected with migration.

One of these will form the soundtrack to a new interactive adventure game charting five stories of migrants fleeing troubled homelands to new beginnings in Europe.

The festivals will address sustainability from an ecological perspective and an education resource will be created to support engagement with contemporary classical music and to highlight themes of migration and social inclusion.

Maureen Kennelly, Director of the Arts Council said, “The Arts Council congratulates Music for Galway in their successful leadership of this exciting Creative Europe funded programme.”

“It is a major achievement for the organisation, for Galway and for Ireland and we look forward to seeing exciting outcomes in the coming years.”

Of 169 projects approved by Creative Europe, there are only two led by Irish organisations.

For now the celebrations are kept on ice as the organisations enter the grant agreement preparation phase. Once that is signed, the corks will pop in earnest.

Plans to reclaim land at Ros a Mhíl harbour centre

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Galway Daily news Extension of planning sought to complete Deep Water Quay at Ros a Mhíl

Plans are progressing for the continued expansion of the Fishery facilities at Ros a Mhíl, with approval being sought to reclaim waterlogged ground.

The Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine is seeking planning permission to reclaim an area of waterlogged ground at the Fishery Harbour Centre at Ros a Mhíl.

This will be accomplished by dredging soil and sand from the site of the proposed small craft harbour.

The council granted planning approval for phase 3 of this project in November of 2021.

This material will be brought to the waterlogged site, south of the existing public car park, before being deposited and leveled. Once the site has been filled in, a geotextile surface will be placed on top, before that it covered with stone gravel.

Planning permission had previously been granted for this project in 2015, and further approval is now being sought to continue and finish it.

A decision is due from Galway County Council on this planning application by November of 2022.

Galway Hospice being redesignated for financial stability

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Galway Daily news Galway Hospice being redesignated for financial stability

Galway Hospice will be on a surer financial footing after the Cabinet gave its approval to redesignate it yesterday evening.

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly announced he has received approval for the redesignation of Galway Hospice, Marymount Care Centre, Milford Care Centre, and St. Francis Hospice.

Currently they are all classed as Section 39 voluntary organisations, meaning they receive uncertain funding, and their staff are not public employees.

Galway Hospice and the others will now be designated Section 38 organisations, guaranteeing more certain funding, and that their staff will become public servants.

The redesignation is expected to be completed before the end of 2022.

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said that this will provide “financial and staffing sustainability” for palliative care services, so that they can continue their work.

“We are rightly very proud of our palliative care services in Ireland. We have seen the spread and range of services grow significantly over the last 20 years.”

“This has been in strong collaboration with the voluntary sector and the HSE. We must now ensure that the sustainability of these core services is protected into the future.”

Currently, approximately 70% of inpatient and 74% of community adult specialist palliative care services are provided by voluntary hospices.

In 2020, Galway Hospice was awarded €750,000 in once-off funding to keep the lights on during the COVID-19 pandemic, as public health restrictions had made much of the fundraising it heavily relies on, impossible.

Minister Donnelly added that in-patient palliative care services are unique among Section 39 voluntary organisations due to the “consultant led, complex clinical care” they provide.

“These service providers are supporting people with life limiting illnesses to remain at home and in their communities while receiving specialist palliative care.”

“We value the essential adult specialist palliative care services provided by these four organisations and the benefits the care they provide give to people with life limiting illnesses and their families.”

In recent weeks, multiple unions having been demonstrating for increased funding and job security for Section 39 organisations, arguing that they are having increasing difficulty retaining staff, and keeping services going.

Over 42 vacant nursing positions at UHG Emergency Department

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Galway Daily news

There are more than 42 vacant nursing positions in the Emergency Department at University Hospital Galway headed into winter.

These figures are from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation which is sounding the alarm on “grim conditions” in emergency departments across the country.

The INMO Executive Council held a meeting today, in which it called on the government and HSE to come immediate plans to tackle chronic dangerous overcrowding.

This comes as 92,324 patients have been on trolleys so far this year, a 45% increase on the year previous.

INMO General Secretary, Phil Ní Sheaghdha said their members are, “once again sounding the alarm on grim conditions in each emergency department across the country. Today alone there are 526 patients without a bed.”

“We know anecdotally that many nurses in emergency departments are moving to elsewhere in their hospital or are leaving the profession altogether because of the conditions in which they work and a lack of safe staffing.”

“For example, in St. Vincent’s University Hospital, eighteen nurses are needed for any given shift in the ED, our members there are reporting that in reality only 9-11 nurses are rostered for most shifts.”

“In University Hospital Galway there are over 42 unfilled nursing vacancies in the Emergency Department.”

She said that the system is “sleepwalking into another overcrowding crisis” after nurses and midwives have just come through the COVID-19 crisis.

“Our members are demanding that the HSE’s recently published winter plan separates staffing for emergency department attendances and admitted patients.”

A decision needs to be made swiftly on whether all elective care needs to be cancelled, she added.

“Our emergency department nurses are not willing to put up with the conditions that they find themselves working in. This is reflected in the high numbers of resignations.”

“It is vital now that the HSE and Government meet with these nurses, hear their concerns and take immediate action.”

If the number of people on trolleys continues to rise while staffing levels remain unsafe, she said, the INMO will have no choice but to consult its members on the next steps to take.

Govt approves ban on new evictions until end of March

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The government has given its approval to plans to ban no fault evictions this Winter.

Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien has today received cabinet approval for the Residential Tenancies (Deferment of Termination Dates of Certain Tenancies) Bill 2022.

This will defer no fault tenancy terminations that are due to occur during the coming winter months from taking effect until after March 31, 2023.

This will also apply to people renting student specific accommodation, or students rental in the general market.

Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien said, “The government is very aware of the increasing pressure on homeless services, the limited supply in the rental market and the struggles people are facing over the coming winter months.”

“This temporary measure will protect renters who are facing homelessness by deferring any ‘no fault’ tenancy terminations from taking place this winter.”

Minister O’Brien said that the government is also conscious of the effect that this will have on landlords, in particular on smaller or ‘accidental’ landlords.

He emphasised that this legislation will not protect someone who “wilfully withholds rent” engages in “anti-social or criminal behaviour “.

Notices of termination can still be served on tenants during the coming winter, but they cannot be implemented.

There will also not be a cliff edge to the tenancy protection, rather evictions will be allowed to occur on a phased basis.

This will be between March 31 and June 18, based on factors such as when the notice was served, and how long a tenant was staying at the property.

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