Bay Broadcasting, the Irish-owned radio group behind Radio Nova, Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio and Sunshine 106.8, has today announced the completion of its acquisition of Galway Bay FM.

The annoucement comes after receipt of approval from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) and the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan.

The transaction, first announced in early June, sees Bay Broadcasting add Galway Bay FM to its growing portfolio, making it the second largest radio group in Ireland – and the largest Irish-owned radio group in the country.

Kevin Branigan, CEO, Bay Broadcasting, said, “Galway Bay FM is a terrific station with an outstanding team and a legacy that’s unmatched in Irish local radio. Its heritage as the voice of Galway is something we deeply respect and are proud to help sustain.”

“As we welcome it into the Bay Broadcasting portfolio, we see huge opportunity to support the station’s growth and to ensure it continues to thrive as the leading radio broadcaster of the west of Ireland.”

Founded in 1989 as Radio West before rebranding as Galway Bay FM in 1993, the station has been a cornerstone of broadcasting in the west of Ireland for more than three decades.

With a weekly listenership of 132,000, it is recognised as one of Ireland’s most respected and trusted local radio stations.

As part of this new chapter, Bay Broadcasting has confirmed the appointments of Fionnuala Rabbitt as Chief Executive Officer and Keith Finnegan as Chairman of the Board.

Fionnuala Rabbitt, CEO and former producer and digital media lead at Galway Bay FM, said, “It is truly special to be returning to Galway Bay FM, where my broadcasting career began, and indeed to Galway, my home city.”

“After over a decade living and working in Donegal with Highland Radio, I’m thrilled to return with a fresh perspective and deep respect for the station’s unique place in the community.”

“Galway Bay FM is part of the fabric of this region, and I look forward to working with the team to build on that heritage.”

The outgoing CEO, Cormac O’Halloran, stated that he was, “delighted with the takeover and sees it as a very necessary step in the continued evolution of Galway Bay FM.”

He is also delighted with the choice of replacement CEO, Fionnuala Rabbitt, and thinks she will bring a vast amount of experience and knowledge of radio to the role, which is necessary for the next phase of development.

He also stated it was a, “great pleasure working closely with the team, and together we have had great success over the last few years. Long may it continue.”

Returning to the station as Chairman of the Board, Keith Finnegan expressed his enthusiasm for the next chapter,

“Galway Bay FM has always been close to my heart. I spent more than three decades working with the most talented professionals in the business, and I’m proud to take on the role of Chairman at such an exciting time for the station.”

“I look forward to supporting the team and helping to shape the next chapter of Galway Bay FM’s success.”

Speaking on behalf of the departing shareholders of Galway Bay FM, Peter Allen, Chairman said, “Bay Broadcasting’s acquisition of Galway Bay FM marks an exciting new chapter for the station.”

“From the outset, their commitment to Irish radio, understanding of local audiences, and proven track record made them the ideal partner to carry Galway Bay FM forward.”

“The outgoing shareholders – many of whom have longstanding family ties to the station – are proud of what has been built over the past three decades and confident that Bay Broadcasting will continue to nurture and grow the station’s deep connection with Galway and the wider region.”

Galway City Council has confirmed the dates of road closures in the city centre for the return of the Christmas Market next month.

Eyre Square North will be closed between its junctions with Eyre Street and Williamsgate Street to make space for the Christmas Market.

The closure will be in place from Sunday, November 2 through to Wednesday, January 7.

Diversion routes will be in place during this time via Prospect Hill, Bóthar Úi Eithir, Forster Street, Eyre Square, and Williamsgate Street.

2,800 homes in the areas around Tuam, Cooloo and Moyne can now avail of high speed fibre broadband under the National Broadband Plan.

41,000 premises in Co. Galway are included in the State’s Intervention Area, which will see NBI deliver minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second to homes, businesses, farms, and schools.

As part of this investment, Galway will receive €53 million in Government funding under the National Broadband Plan.

There are 2,777 Galway premises in the Barnaderg deployment area that can join the NBI network. National Broadband Ireland is calling on people living nearby to visit nbi.ie  and enter their Eircode to see if they are ready to connect.

Works have already been completed in other parts of Galway, including the rural surrounds of Athenry, Clonfert and Maam.

There are a total of 29,953 premises that can now pre-order or order high-speed, reliable broadband across the county, with 10,362 connections made so far.

Network build works are also continuing across Galway, with build works in progress for over 2,900 premises near the Belclare deployment area, due to be connected by the end of next year.

Signing up to the NBI email notifications at nbi.ie is the easiest way to get the most up-to-date status of premises during the rollout and when premises will be ready for order.

TJ Malone, Chief Executive Officer, National Broadband Ireland, said: “We are delighted to announce that almost 2,800 Galway premises in the Barnaderg deployment area can now order high-speed broadband services through the NBI network.”

“This will enable those who connect to experience the life-changing benefits of high-speed broadband with minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second. ”

“Overall, almost 30,000 homes, businesses and farms in Co Galway can now order a high-speed fibre connection to the NBI network. This includes the rural surrounds of Athenry, Clonfert and Maam.”

We are working hard on the ground to progress other areas of the county through engineering survey, design and construction phases. We are encouraging Galway residents to visit the NBI website to check their Eircode and sign up for updates.”

Gardaí are renewing their appeal to the public for any information that could help locate a Galway man missing for almost two weeks.

48-year-old Martin Ward has been missing from the Tuam area since Monday, October 6.

Martin is described as approximately 6’3″ with a big build. He is bald and has blue eyes.

When last seen on October 6, Martin was wearing light green tracksuit bottoms, a dark green sweatshirt, a black sleeveless body warmer top and black runners.

Anyone with any information on Martin’s whereabouts is asked to contact Tuam Garda Station on 093 70840, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

A new initiative aimed at equipping children with coding and AI skills has been launched at Trinity Primary School in Tuam.

This pilot initiative seeks to prepare students, particularly in DEIS schools, to engage with and shape an increasingly computing and AI-powered world, while addressing a significant gap in Ireland’s computing education system.

The pilot study, led by the School of Education at the University of Galway and proudly supported by Google.org, will engage 80 schools and up to 2,000 primary pupils over the next two years.

Despite being enthusiastic, many teachers are not equipped with the resources, time or depth of knowledge needed to teach coding and AI effectively.

This new project aims to tackle this issue by offering upskilling opportunities to teachers in primary schools, with workshops demonstrating how to integrate computing and AI with other subjects in the curriculum, enhancing lessons with AI and understanding AI concepts.

For example, the pupils will then learn how to code robots to draw patterns and shapes and use AI to write music and songs.

Professor Cornelia Connolly of the School of Education at University of Galway said, “To grow our digital economy, Ireland needs an advanced workforce ready to take advantage of the opportunities digital transformation brings.”

“Supporting our teachers and embedding these competencies within formal education is the way to do that.

“Current and future generations need to be able to navigate misinformation and other AI-related challenges, and they also need to be able to take the opportunities which will be provided to those who can become skilful developers and operators of AI.”

This pilot project will initially focus on DEIS and rural schools in the West of Ireland, with plans to expand nationwide as the project scales.

The pilot is part of a larger nationwide computing education project where the University of Galway is working together with Trinity College Dublin and University of Limerick.

BreastCheck, Ireland’s free national breast screening programme, is encouraging women in Galway to come for their first appointment.

Screening is provided in Galway at the permanent Western Unit, at the rear of University Hospital Galway, Newcastle Road, providing free breast screening to women.

Most women are automatically registered with BreastCheck and are invited by age 52 or 53.

Dr Alissa Connors, BreastCheck Lead Clinical Director, said, “Breast screening can save lives. It looks for early signs of breast cancer, when it is too small to see or feel, when treatment is usually most effective.”

“To make sure we use every appointment slot, we’re asking women to take a few simple steps to help us to help them. If you can’t attend your appointment, let us know – your slot can be offered to someone else.”

“If your appointment time or location doesn’t suit, call us on the number on your appointment letter and we will aim to rearrange screening in another unit. We can also offer longer appointments or support for people who have extra needs.”

“If you are aged 53 to 69 and have never been to BreastCheck before, give us a call — if we have cancellations, we can fit you in. Any questions at all, just call us.”

7 things to know about BreastCheck, the free national breast screening programme

1. We provide free screening – and more

BreastCheck offers a screening mammogram (an x-ray of the breast) to women aged 50-69 around every 2 years. Some women are 53 when they get their first invite, it depends on when we are next screening in your area. Most women get a normal mammogram result but a small number – 1 in 20 – are invited back to our BreastCheck assessment clinics for more tests. Seven out of every 50 women called to assessment will be offered treatment by us for breast cancer.

1. Most of you tell us mammograms are quick, and not too painful

Experiences vary, but 3 out of 4 women in our 2023/2024 large-scale patient survey reported only mild discomfort*, or none. The mammogram takes a few minutes, and our radiographers are trained to make you as comfortable as possible. We know 85%** of women return for their next appointment.

1. We move from place to place to offer screening close to where you live

We have centres in Dublin, Cork and Galway — plus 24 mobile units travelling to 54 locations nationwide. When we leave an area, women can be assured we will return. That’s how we reach every community. In our patient survey 95%* of women either strongly agreed or agreed that their screening appointment was easy to get to.

1. We can support you to make screening more accessible

We can give you more time for your appointment or additional support if you have access needs or live with a health condition. We have materials in different languages, accessible videos, picture-based guides and easy-read information. We can provide a sign language interpreter, a language interpreter, and information in Braille.

1. We can send your BreastCheck screening appointment details via HSE Health App

The HSE App is making our service more accessible, helping us to reach more of you, and ensure every appointment slot is filled. Download the app to see your appointment details, screening location and transport options. It also has information to help you prepare for your mammogram.

1. We provide screening for women who have no symptoms or concerns about breast health

BreastCheck is for if you are aged 50 to 69 and do not have symptoms of breast cancer. If you have symptoms, please contact your GP, do not come for screening. Symptoms include:

• a new lump or area of thickened tissue in either breast
• a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
• bloodstained discharge from either of your nipples
• a lump or swelling in either of your armpits
• dimpling on the skin of your breasts
• a rash on or around your nipple
• a change in how your nipple looks, such as sunken into your breast.

1. You can help us help you – what you can do:

• Check you are on the BreastCheck register at hse.ie/breastcheck or call us on 1800 45 55 55. Your details should be automatically uploaded but if not, you can join our register from age 48.
• Keep your contact details up to date, including your mobile number.
• Use the HSE App to view and manage your appointment and travel.
• If you can’t attend, let us know – we can rearrange your appointment for you.
• Let us know if you need a longer appointment by calling 1800 45 55 55 or emailing access@breastcheck.ie.
• For symptoms, contact your GP straight away.

Planning permission has been granted for the construction of 219 cost rental and social homes at Dyke Road in Galway City.

An Coimisiún Pleanála has given the green light for the first phase of the overall Development Framework, known as Corrib Causeway: Tóchar na Coiribe.

The project will transform approximately 1.87 hectares of GCC-owned land into a new mixed-use neighbourhood alongside commercial, civic and cultural amenities.

Cost rental and social homes will be available across 109 one-bed, 100 two-bed and 10 three-bed apartments, with the development ranging in height from 5 to 9 storeys.

The plans also include a crèche, car and bicycle parking, as well as communal open spaces, playgrounds and new landscaping along Dyke Road.

The longer-term plan for the development includes new cycling and walking infrastructure, green spaces and improved transport connections to surrounding amenities including Terryland Forest Park and Galway Shopping Centre.

With planning permission now secured, the project will move to the detailed design and procurement stage, with construction likely to commence in 2027.

The Land Development Agency and Galway City Council welcomed the planning decision, with Phelim O’Neill, Director of Development with the LDA, saying, “Securing planning permission for Dyke Road is a major step towards delivering much-needed affordable homes in Galway.”

“This is a complex and challenging site and highlights the LDA’s ability to find solutions to accelerate housing delivery.”

“The Dyke Road project will see the regeneration of a centrally located site into a new neighbourhood with high-quality homes and amenities for the community.”

“We will now bring this development forward to detailed design and construction stages to deliver new quality homes to new residents.”

Mayor of the City of Galway, Councillor Mike Cubbard, said, “As Mayor of Galway City, I commend the partnership approach between the LDA and the local authority on the Dyke Road site. I look forward to 219 new homes close to the city centre”

Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, added that the council chose to prioritise the construction of housing on the land, which it owns.

“We are delighted to reach this milestone for the Dyke Road project. This site will soon become a lively, sustainable community featuring high-quality homes and improved local amenities.”

“This is more than just housing – it’s an opportunity to reinvigorate the area and create new communities where people can lay down roots in a great location, close to the Galway city centre.”

The LDA is also set to deliver the first of 345 homes at Crown Square by the end of 2026, and a planning application has been submitted for 356 homes at Amharc Atalia, Galway Port.

The Agency is also working in partnership with Galway City Council on a longer-term plan to transform the land surrounding Sandy Road into a new urban quarter with the potential for 750 affordable and social homes.

University of Galway is to host Ireland’s new supercomputer, following a collaboration agreement by the Government and the European Commission.

The national high-performance computing system – CASPIr – will be operated by the University’s Irish Centre for High-End Computing (ICHEC).

It will provide the research and innovation community across Ireland and Europe with significantly enhanced capacity to address challenges and opportunities in science and society, such as climate, environment, health, AI and big data.

CASPIr will be co-funded by the Department for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and European High Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU) as part of a five-year collaboration agreement.

Professor David Burn, President of University of Galway, said, “The collaboration agreement for the new supercomputer CASPIr heralds a new era of research capability for Europe, and Ireland’s research community, and places University of Galway and our Irish Centre for High-End Computing at the helm of data driven study.”

“I would like to thank Minister Lawless and his team in the Department for pursuing this investment and working with University of Galway to secure it.”

“We can now look forward to the research community reaping the rewards of this next generation of supercomputing and data driven research as it drives University of Galway’s strategic focus on transformative data and AI to support interdisciplinary research addressing global challenges.”

CASPIr follows on from the supercomputer Kay, which was commissioned in 2018.

It is one of 31 supercomputers in Europe which are funded under the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking. It is planned to be in service in 2027. CASPIr takes its name from Computational Analysis and Simulation Platform for Ireland.

ICHEC is hosted at University of Galway and funded by the Department of Further and Higher, Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

It is Ireland’s national centre for high-performance computing, providing e-infrastructure, services and expertise to the academic research community, industry and the public sector.

Its high-performance computing services are made available to researchers based on a peer review process by an independent panel of scientists.

Dr Michael Nolan, Chair of the ICHEC Science Council said, “CASPIr will enable the Irish research community to take leading roles in research consortia, international research programmes and attract industry investment that is built on the ability to integrate computational methods into R&D, alongside helping to deliver on government ambition.”

Salthill is expected to be crowded by 2,000 people this week turning out to support good health in the annual Croí Night Run.

The 11th annual Croí Night Run is taking place on the evening of Friday, October 17 in aid of the lifesaving charity.

Based in Newscastle, Galway City, Croí Heart & Stroke Charity provides a wide range of community support services to improve awareness of heart disease and stroke.

They also provide care right in your community, with heart health and stroke prevention specialists running events that off heart health checks, interactive workshops and practical tips for a healthy lifestyle.

The annual Night Run is a huge benefit to the charity, with more than €30,000 raised through registrations and donations already in 2025, before it has even taken place.

The run will take place on the Promenade in Salthill from 8pm on Friday night. In order to accommodate this, traffic management will be in place.

A Temporary rolling road closure has been granted on Grattan Road (R336) from Mutton Island to Blackrock from 8pm – 9.30 pm.

The 5k race will start at Mutton Island at 8pm and crowds will be expected in the area in advance of the start time.

For further information on the event, please visit croinightrun.ie.

Correction: This article has been updated to correct the estimated number of attendees to 2,000.

Respond, Ireland’s largest construction-led Approved Housing Body (AHB) and service provider, delivered 12 new social homes in Galway last year.

Respond now owns and manages 476 homes throughout Galway, providing secure and affordable accommodation for tenants.

Respond is set to deliver almost 1,000 new social and cost-rental homes this year – its highest annual output to date.

The organisation, which operates across all 26 counties, expects to hand over 972 new homes by year’s end.

This includes 789 social and 183 cost rental homes, marking the fourth consecutive year of growth in its annual delivery figures.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne launched Respond’s 2024 Annual Report on the progress of the AHB’s housing pipeline, which includes 3,458 homes currently being built across the country.

In 2024, Respond delivered 855 new social and Cost Rental homes, representing a 28% increase on the previous year and approximately 6% of all new social homes built nationally.

It also commenced construction on 2,667 additional homes during the year. Respond delivered 18% of Cost Rental homes delivered by Approved Housing Bodies in 2024.

Respond now manages 8,510 properties across 26 counties, providing secure, affordable housing for over 19,000 tenants.

Speaking at the launch, Respond spokesperson Niamh Randall said, “Respond is committed to supporting the Government’s programme of housing delivery by increasing the national housing stock through our cost effective, construction-led model.”

“We are providing families with access to stable, long-term homes where they can put down roots as part of a local community.”

“Our vision is an Ireland where everyone has a great place to live, and we are building the infrastructure and the communities to make that a reality. Each of our developments follow our evidence informed Housing Services Delivery model and includes community hubs.”

“As a trusted delivery partners, we await the new Housing Plan due later this month for detailed and targeted housing measures, including much needed funding and policy certainty for the Approved Housing Body sector.”

“Approved Housing Bodies, like Respond, have a strong track record of delivering quality homes for families and individuals and supporting connected communities all around Ireland.”

It is critical we are enabled to continue to deliver homes now and into the future to meet Government targets and address urgent housing need.”

Welcoming Respond’s progress, James Browne, TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, added, “I would like to congratulate Respond on the publication of their annual report, which showcases the important role that Approved Housing Bodies play in delivering new homes at the scale required to tackle the housing crisis.”

“My Department is proud to lend strong support through multi-million funding for Respond’s construction-led model which is now providing thousands of homes throughout the entire country, along with other vital services that help create communities where people feel safe and supported.”

Two student-led projects at the University of Galway have won top prizes for sustainability and diversity and inclusion as part of the ENLIGHT European University Alliance.

The awards were announced at this year’s ENLIGHT Teaching and Learning Conference in recognition of outstanding initiatives led by students that demonstrate impact, innovation, and alignment with ENLIGHT’s core pillars.

University of Galway is one of 10 research-intensive universities in the ENLIGHT European university alliance.

ENLIGHT was formed in 2020 with a shared aim to transform the way global challenges are addressed and to empower students, teachers and researchers to deal with complex sustainability issues.

Speaking about the recognition, Alex Metcalfe, Interim Vice President International at University of Galway, said, “We are immensely proud of our students for leading projects that not only embody the values of ENLIGHT but also drive real change on campus and beyond.”

“Winning both awards in such highly competitive categories is testament to the creativity, commitment, and leadership of our students in shaping a more sustainable, inclusive future.”

In the Sustainability category, Adam Mullins of University of Galway Students’ Union was awarded first place for SPÉIR – SU Pantry – Students’ Union.

The initiative is a system where food, which is surplus, in damaged packaging, end of line or near sell-by or use dates, is collected through FoodCloud. It is then distributed to students at the University instead of being dumped.

The initiative was nominated by the University’s Sustainability Office. The judges commended its measurable impact in tackling food waste, connecting sustainability with wider societal issues and its strong potential to be replicated in other universities and cities.

In the Diversity and Inclusion category, Galway’s Active* Champions project was awarded first place.

Judges highlighted the project’s peer-education approach and its impressive impact in addressing key challenges around inclusion and awareness, emphasising that “we can never have enough initiatives that highlight these issues.”

The award was accepted by postgraduate student María José Hun on behalf of a dedicated team of Active* Champions.

They are a network of student peer educators and leaders for initiatives on ending sexual violence and harassment, consent, sexual health and well-being, and active bystander skills.

The Active* Champions initiative is led by the Office of the VP Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.

The juries, comprised of sustainability and inclusion professionals from all ENLIGHT partners, praised all ten nominees across both categories, noting the closeness of the competition and the exceptional standard of entries.

ENLIGHT includes University of Galway; Comenius University, Bratislava (Slovakia); University of Groningen (Netherlands); University of Bern (Switzerland); University of Bordeaux (France); Ghent University (Belgium); University of Tartu (Estonia); University of Gottingen (Germany); University of the Basque Country (Spain); and Uppsala University (Sweden).

The project is supported by the Government and the European Commission. The aim is for the alliance to develop as a platform for the creation of a new type of European university campus where students and staff have increased opportunities for international study, training, teaching, research and sharing of services.

Leapmotor Ireland has announced its selection of Kenny Galway, Tuam Road, as its latest official franchise dealer.

This development marks Leapmotor’s fourth Retail Partner in Ireland, and the first in Connacht, further expanding the brand’s footprint in the west of Ireland.

The appointment is part of Leapmotor Ireland’s continuing expansion of its nationwide dealer network.

From this month, customers in Galway will be able to discover and purchase the full Leapmotor range at Kenny Galway, including the compact urban Leapmotor T03 and the versatile Leapmotor C10 family SUV, soon to be followed by the Leapmotor B10 compact SUV this November.

Business Development Manager at Leapmotor Ireland, Yvonne Sweeney, said, “We are delighted to welcome Kenny Galway to the Leapmotor family.”

“Their strong reputation for quality and customer service aligns perfectly with our vision to bring innovative electric vehicles to Irish drivers, without compromise.”

“This partnership ensures customers in Galway and the west of Ireland can access our exciting Leapmotor lineup with the confidence and local support of such a trusted Galway dealership.”

Established in 1992, Kenny Galway has grown into one of the region’s most trusted motor dealerships. Originally located on Headford Road, the business relocated in 2003 to its impressive, purpose-built showroom on the Tuam Road.

As the main Peugeot dealer in Galway since 2014, Kenny Galway proudly offers a wide range of vehicles and services. With a knowledgeable and dedicated team, the dealership is committed to delivering exceptional customer care for Leapmotor customers.

Brian Kenny, Dealer Principal at Kenny Galway, said, “Joining forces with Leapmotor marks an exciting new chapter for our dealership as we embrace the future of mobility.”

“We look forward to introducing our customers to Leapmotor’s cutting-edge technology and sleek designs, and to offering comprehensive sales, service, and support for these innovative vehicles.”

Launching in Ireland this month, the Leapmotor T03 and versatile C10 models will be available through Gowan Auto’s established retail network, offering customers an unparalleled sales and aftersales experience.

The new Leapmotor B10 SUV, recently showcased at IAA Mobility in Munich, is poised to elevate the lineup further.

Leapmotor B10 is being dispatched worldwide aboard Leapmotor’s dedicated 9,250-unit freighter, operated in a strategic partnership with Grimaldi Lines, underscoring Leapmotor’s accelerating international expansion and commitment to delivering quality electric vehicles on a global scale.

Four Galway schools have been recognised with a prestigious Irish Heart Foundation award for training their students in the lifesaving skill of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Gort Communty School, St. Joseph’s Patrician College (The Bish), Coláiste Mhuire in Ballygar and St. Brigid’s College in Loughrea each received a CPR 4 Schools award recently.

This award recognises schools, teachers and students for remarkable efforts in CPR promotion and training.

They were among 33 schools across Ireland presented with 63 awards as part of the national heart and stroke charity’s CPR 4 Schools programme.

Ninety-per-cent of secondary schools have engaged in the programme since its inception, with 2,630 teachers involved across 649 schools to deliver CPR training, giving the programme a reach of over 350,000 students nationwide.

The charity is now calling on all schools to sign up to help build a new generation of lifesavers.

The programme trains students to perform CPR and respond in a cardiac emergency, use an AED (defibrillator) and respond when someone is choking.

Easy to run, it involves one-hour, video-led lessons, fully supported with manikin kits and classroom resources.

Schools benefit from the awards recognising their participation and positive student engagement, while families and entire communities gain by having young people emerge as confident lifesavers.

“We have been doing CPR4 school for many years, and it is just getting bigger and better each year,” said Aoife Lynskey, Gort Community School teacher.

Brigid Sinnott, Resuscitation Manager with the Irish Heart Foundation, encouraged teachers countrywide to help students obtain essential lifesaving CPR skills.

“We know that schools are extremely busy places, which makes us all the more blown away by the work and commitment they have put in to teach the lifesaving skill of CPR to date.

“The Irish Heart Foundation’s mission is to build a nation of lifesavers through CPR training and schools are vital to help us achieve that.”

She added that the CPR 4 Schools programme is easy to run, and encouraged schools nationwide to see how simple it is to implement.

“Schools and teachers are at the core of this programme and these awards are our way of recognising them for empowering students with a lifesaving skill.”

A person’s chance of survival is doubled when CPR is started immediately.

By learning CPR once in your life, you are 10 times more likely to respond to an emergency than someone who has never received training.

A generous donation of €20,000 has been presented to the Thinking of You memory box project for organ donors at University Hospital Galway.

The donation was made in memory of the late Simon Quinn from Abbeyknockmoy, Co. Galway, after his family held a fundraiser to honour the care he was shown.

The cheque was presented by Simon’s parents, Carmel and Fred Quinn, together with Simon’s brother Aaron and sister Iarla.

The funds were raised through an iDonate page and a community auction, which received overwhelming support from the people of Abbeyknockmoy and surrounding areas.

The Thinking of You memory box is a symbol of respect and compassion for organ donors and their families, reflecting empathy and care during life’s most difficult moments.

Through meaningful keepsakes, the project offers comfort during end-of-life care and the donation process, helping families preserve connection, create cherished memories, and find lasting support in their grief.

Led by Gillian Shanahan, Organ Donation Nurse Manager, HSE West and North West, this initiative is inspired by the selfless decision to become an organ donor, an act that saves and transforms lives.

Its growth has been made possible through the continued support of donor families. What began as a small nursing project offering comfort has evolved into a gift of memories shared from one donor family to another, a powerful reflection of empathy, compassion, and humanity at its finest.

The Quinn family shared, “It was our honour to raise funds for this amazing project. The Thinking of You memory box brings us great comfort, knowing that Simon has a keepsake with him – a lasting connection that we’ll always treasure.”

“Every detail of the box reminds us of the compassion and care shown by the staff at University Hospital Galway during an unimaginably difficult time.”

“We would be overjoyed to see these boxes launched nationwide, allowing other families to create cherished memories, just as we were able to do with Simon.”

Gillian Shanahan, Organ Donation Nurse Manager and Project Lead for the Thinking of You memory box project, expressed her deep appreciation for the donation.

“On behalf of the team at University Hospital Galway, we would like to thank the Quinn Family for their efforts in raising this remarkable amount. This generous donation will help us continue to support donor families through this project.”

“Each memory box is a reminder of the organ donor’s legacy, not only through the lives saved but also through the comfort and healing these keepsakes bring to the families.”

Repairs have been completed to a burst water mains on the Circular Road in Galway City, which was causing water outages to hundreds of homes in the area today.

The burst water main resulted in outages for approximately 500 units in Circular Road, Clybaun Road, The Heath, Cúirt Chéirín, Hy Brasil Court, The Bailey, Fána Buí, Barnacranny, Bushypark; Ballymoneen Road and surrounding areas today.

Repairs were completed at 3pm this afternoon, and supply levels in the area are currently returning to normal.

However, it may take longer for those on higher ground or at the end of the network to have a full supply restored.

Leo O’Shea of Uisce Éireann thanked affected customers for their cooperation while repairs were underway.

“Uisce Éireann acknowledges the inconvenience caused by unplanned outages and thanks customers for their patience and cooperation while these works were carried out. We regret any inconvenience caused.”

Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of missing Galway man, 48-year-old Martin Ward.

Martin has been reported missing from Tuam, Co. Galway, since Monday, October 6.

Martin is described as being approximately 6 foot 3 inches in height, with a big build. He is bald and has blue eyes.

When last seen, Martin was wearing light green tracksuit bottoms, a dark green sweatshirt, black sleeveless body warmer top and black runners.

Martin’s family and Gardaí are concerned for his wellbeing.

Anyone with any information on Martin’s whereabouts is asked to contact Tuam Garda Station on 093 70840, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.