Two cars were damaged by fire and shots were fired in a dangerous incident at a home in Athenry which occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to the incident at a home in the Cullairbaun estate in Athenry which took place at approximately 12:25am Sunday.

Two cars were damaged by fire, and a firearm was discharged during the course of the incident.

Gardai confirmed that no injuries were reported, and that a technical examination of the scene has been carried out.

An Garda Síochána is appealing for anyone with information in relation to this incident to come forward.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the area of Cullairbaun and its surrounds at the given time are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the investigation team in Oranmore Garda Station on 091 288030, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

Community groups and volunteers from across County Galway were honoured at the Cathaoirleach’s Awards in the Raheen Woods Hotel on Friday night (8 May).

The event, organised by Galway County Council in partnership with the Galway County Public Participation Network, recognised the work of individuals and organisations making a difference in their communities.

Hosted by Cathaoirleach Councillor David Collins, the ceremony brought together nominees, their families and supporters.

MC Ronan Lardner of Galway Bay FM entertained a full house, while others tuned in via a live stream on the Council’s Facebook page.

Among the winners on the night were Make A Difference Youth Club, John Tarpey, the Ballinderreen Heritage Publication, Belmont National School, Pop Up Gaeltacht Chinn Mhara, Brian Healy, Eyrecourt and District Community Development, St Colman’s Camogie Club, Oranmore Tidy Towns, Portumna Tidy Towns, Tuam Women’s Shed and the Fionn Science Project.

Each recipient received a specially commissioned award designed and crafted by Craughwell artist Seán Mahony, along with a certificate and a €500 prize to support their work.

Two additional honours were presented on the night. The Cathaoirleach’s Special Recognition Award was awarded posthumously to Damien Delaney of Lackagh, Turloughmore.

He was remembered for his commitment to his community, his involvement in local activities and his support for heritage initiatives.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Jarlath McDonagh from Turloughmore. A former teacher and public representative, he has made a significant contribution to community life, education and sport over several decades, including his work with Galway County Council and Seanad Éireann.

Cllr David Collins, Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway said, “These awards recognise the tireless efforts of individuals and groups who work diligently behind the scenes to strengthen our communities.”

“On behalf of Galway County Council and the people of the County, I am delighted to host this event dedicated to honouring their achievements and commitment to making our local areas better places to live, work and visit.”

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council commented, “These awards provide an opportunity for Galway County Council and Galway County PPN to recognise the unique value and contribution of volunteers to our county and to acknowledge their impact on community wellbeing and quality of life.”

“I am delighted that this year an Awards Booklet will be compiled as a memento for all nominees, and to inform all in our County of the range and breadth of voluntary activities and the pride of place instilled by volunteerism.”

The first award of the evening, in the Arts and Culture category, was presented to Make A Difference Youth Club. The group works to empower young people through creativity, leadership and inclusion.

It delivers a range of programmes, including creative writing and spoken word workshops, giving young people opportunities to express themselves and engage with culture.

The Best Contribution to Heritage Award was presented to John Tarpey. He founded the Kilskeagh Heritage Committee with the aim of uncovering the remains of the historic Kilskeagh church and graveyard, which had been hidden by overgrowth for decades.

Under his leadership, the site has been restored and made accessible, while his work also led to the identification of a significant medieval archaeological landscape in the area.

Ballinderreen Community Centre won the Heritage Publication Award. Its multimedia project celebrates local heritage while supporting wellbeing and strengthening community identity.

A dedicated group worked with local organisations, including the national school, GAA club and Tidy Towns committee, to deliver the initiative.

Belmont National School received the Schools Contribution to Heritage Award for its Ash Tree Project. The project gained national recognition and was showcased at European level.

Now on display in Collins Barracks, it highlights a significant local tree and explores links between natural and cultural heritage.

Pop Up Gaeltacht Chinn Mhara was named winner of the Best Contribution to the Irish Language Award.

The group organises events across South Galway, including conversation circles, workshops and guided walks, encouraging people of all ages to use and develop their Irish in a social setting.

Brian Healy received the Environment and Climate Action Award for his work supporting sustainability projects in his local area.

His efforts include biodiversity initiatives, energy reduction projects and community partnerships involving sports clubs, schools and local groups.

The Social Inclusion Award went to Eyrecourt and District Community Development. The voluntary group has led the redevelopment of community facilities, including Eyrecourt Hall, and supports a wide range of activities aimed at improving quality of life and inclusion in the area.

St Colman’s Camogie Club received the Sports Award. The volunteer-led club supports participation in sport for girls and women and runs a range of inclusive initiatives, including youth camps and community programmes promoting health and wellbeing.

Oranmore Tidy Towns was recognised with the Tidy Towns Award for its long-standing commitment to environmental protection and community action. Its work includes biodiversity projects, reuse initiatives and the management of local green spaces.

Two groups were also selected to represent County Galway in the Pride of Place Awards. Portumna Tidy Towns will compete in the Community Tourism Initiative category, reflecting the town’s strong heritage offering and community development.

Tuam Women’s Shed was also recognised for its work on a sensory garden in the Tuam Palace Grounds, developed in partnership with local groups and schools.

The Heritage Legacy Award was awarded to the Fionn Science Project. Developed at primary school level, it combined science education with heritage themes and has been recognised as an innovative and influential initiative in Irish education.

Portiuncula University Hospital marked International Day of the Midwife last week to recognise the dedication, expertise and compassion of its midwifery team, who support women and families through some of life’s most meaningful moments.

Midwives play a vital role in providing safe, compassionate and continuous care throughout pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period, combining clinical expertise with emotional support for women and families at every stage of their maternity journey.

The impact of this care is reflected in the experience of patient Edel Byrne, who recently welcomed her baby at the hospital.

“The care and support I received were exceptional. The midwives went above and beyond for me, they were outstanding from the very beginning of my pregnancy journey right through to the end, and I always felt supported and never alone.”

“Their presence made such a difference, providing constant reassurance, strength and comfort at every stage.”

“Not only was the standard of care exceptional, but I was never left in the dark; I was always fully informed and involved in my care.”

“I truly could not put into words how positive the experience had been. I will always be deeply grateful for the support I received during delivery and throughout my aftercare. I was absolutely delighted.”

“For me, this has been one of the most positive experiences of my life, and I genuinely did not want to leave because of how well I had been cared for.”

“I am especially grateful to all the midwives, as well as the doctors and wider staff, for their kindness, professionalism and support throughout my maternity journey.”

Lisa Mahony, Clinical Midwife Manager II, highlighted the deeply rewarding nature of the profession.

“Becoming a midwife is special because it places you at the heart of one of life’s most profound and transformative moments.”

“Midwives do more than provide medical care, they offer emotional support, reassurance and guidance to women and families during pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood.”

“It is a career built on trust, compassion and deep human connection, where every day brings the privilege of witnessing new life begin.”

“The role requires skill, patience and resilience, but it is incredibly rewarding. Midwives help empower women and ensure safe, positive birth experiences that can shape families for a lifetime. Midwives don’t just deliver babies, they deliver courage, confidence and new beginnings.”

International Day of the Midwife provides an opportunity to recognise the essential role midwives play in delivering safe, compassionate and high-quality maternity care.

At Portiuncula University Hospital, midwives continue to make a lasting difference every day, supporting women, strengthening families and helping to ensure the best possible start in life for every new-born.

New Dock Street will be closed for the majority of two weeks in May to allow for refurbishment works to take place.

The City Council has made an order extending the closure of New Dock Street from 8am to 6pm, from Monday, May 11 through to Friday, May 22.

This closure is to allow for external painting and refurbishment of Merchant Square Building on the street.

Temporary diversion routes will be in place via Spanish Parade R336, Flood Street R336, onto Merchant Road.

Localised access will be maintained at all times and advance diversion signage will be in place prior to work commencing.

More than €30,000 was raised for five local charities helping people in Galway from the annual Mayoral Ball last month.

The 2026 Galway City Mayoral Ball took place on Saturday, April 18 at the Galmont Hotel. Over 300 people attended the event hosted by Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard.

The charities supported by this year’s Mayoral Ball are Ability West, ACT for Meningitis, AsIAm, Galway Rape Crisis Centre, and HopeSpace.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard said, “The Mayoral Ball is a fantastic opportunity to raise funds for five fantastic charities providing services locally in Galway City.”

“Thank you to all of the fantastic sponsors, donors and attendees who came together to make this unforgettable night, which raised over €30,000.”

Mayor Cubbard added that all of the proceeds of the ball will go to the chosen charities.

Ball attendees were entertained by MC Ronan Lardner and were treated to the peals of the bell of Liam Silke, the Town Crier, a charity auction facilitated by O’Donnellan and Joyce, and a raffle featuring a host of fantastic prizes sponsored by businesses and organisations in the city.

The young pupils at Caltra National School in County Galway are in the running to be crowned the fittest in Ireland.

Caltra NS have been crowned Connacht provincial champions in this year’s competition to find Ireland’s Fittest School 2026.

The school will now join the top school from each of the Ulster, Munster and Leinster provincial finals in the grand final in Athlone on May 20.

Ireland’s Fittest School is hosted by one of Ireland’s best-known Olympians, sprinter David Gillick, and health and fitness expert Sharon Flanagan.

The competition’s prize package will include €8,000 worth of sports equipment and the title of ‘Ireland’s Fittest School 2026’.

Supported by fruit importer Fyffes and tracked online, the purpose of the competition, launched in December and now in its fifth year, is to promote the importance of exercise, fitness and healthy eating amongst young people.

A big part of the competition is a series of exercise routines that help to measure the progress of students. This has benefits beyond the competition, as schools can the adopt them into their P.E. curriculum.

Men’s Sheds in Galway have been paid €43,000 in funding to help these community resources with their running costs.

A total of 24 Men’s Sheds across Galway received grants of up to €3,000 each from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

The Irish Men’s Sheds Association, founded in 2011, supports Ireland’s network of 450 Men’s Sheds nationwide.

Sheds offer men an opportunity to meet in a supportive, collaborative space, improve their health and wellbeing, and contribute to their communities.

Minister Dara Calleary said, “I am delighted to have been able to provide this funding to the IMSA to help support Men’s Sheds throughout the country.”

“Men’s Sheds provide a vital service to men up and down the country allowing them to come together in a safe, comfortable, and inclusive environment where the can share skills, connect with one another and with their communities.”

This funding for 369 Men’s Sheds nationwide was announced last year, and has been paid over the last number of months.

It is to help them with running/operational costs such as heating, electricity and insurance bills. All applications were received and assessed by the IMSA.

The full list of Sheds in Galway which benefited from this funding is:

A new partnership between Atlantic Technological University and the HSE aims to address persistent staffing shortages in Ireland’s diagnostic laboratory services, while simultaneously upskilling existing healthcare workers through a structured, part‑time education pathway.

The Higher Diploma in Science in Medical Science, developed by ATU’s Medical Science Programme Board has been created in direct response to long‑standing capacity challenges across hospital laboratories.

The programme has been designed in collaboration with the HSE and sits under the Memorandum of Understanding between ATU and the West and North West HSE region.

The two‑year, part‑time programme provides an alternative graduate‑entry route to becoming a CORU‑registered Medical Scientist, specifically targeting medical laboratory aides who already work within the health service and hold a Level 8 degree in a relevant science discipline.

Participants remain in paid employment throughout their studies, allowing the health service to build future capability without removing experienced staff from frontline laboratory environments.

Medical scientists play a critical role in diagnosis, disease monitoring and patient care. However, vacancy levels across the health system have remained high, particularly outside major urban centres.

Under the new Sponsored Medical Scientist Training Programme, the HSE has committed €2.44 million to fund 120 places over the next five years, ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified medical scientists while strengthening retention within the public health service.

The programme is being delivered in partnership with the Department of Health and the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, reflecting its alignment with national workforce planning and skills policy.

Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU said, “This partnership between ATU and the HSE will help to address critical skills needs across hospitals in our region and throughout Ireland, delivering real impact for patient care and service delivery.”

“This programme is also a potential blueprint for other ways in which we can support the HSE workforce, and I want to thank our team in ATU for all their work in developing this innovative offering.”

Tony Canavan, Regional Executive Officer for HSE West and North West, said, “Medical scientists are at the heart of healthcare and provide an essential service to support our patients right across the West and North West region, however it is an area where we face ongoing recruitment challenges.”

“This programme, which is a result of strengthened collaboration between the HSE and ATU, will ensure our medical science services into the future are robust, sustainable and delivered by a highly skilled workforce.”

Graduates of the programme are eligible to register with CORU, the statutory regulator for health and social care professionals, enabling them to practise as medical scientists upon completion.

Participants will commit to three years’ post‑qualification service within the public health system, ensuring that the investment translates directly into increased capacity at hospital level.

The initiative is expected to have particular significance for regional hospitals, where recruitment and retention pressures are often most acute.

By enabling existing staff to upskill locally through ATU, the programme supports regional sustainability while strengthening higher education–health system collaboration.

It also reflects a broader shift in how professional education is delivered, placing greater emphasis on flexible, work‑based learning pathways for experienced adult learners.

The programme will admit an initial cohort of 24 students in 2026, with demand expected to exceed available places.

The closing date for applications for the first intake is 30 April 2026, and eligible candidates must apply through the ATU application portal following internal HSE expression‑of‑interest processes.

This weekend marked the final day on the lifeboat for Olivia Byrne who has been volunteer crew with the Galway Lifeboat Station for the past 23 years.

Olivia who is a nurse, midwife and public health nurse has been on 167 shouts and has been involved in many rescues including passengers on cruise ships and has dealt with injuries from fractured hips to cardiac arrests, while also dealing with people who have lost their life through drowning.

In addition, Olivia’s nursing background has allowed her use these skills to the benefit of all the crew by leading out on casualty care exercises at the station.

Olivia also initiated the ongoing engagement with the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at the University of Galway which has enabled the crew to visit the Clinical Simulation and Interprofessional Education Facility to put their casualty care training into practice in real time.

Speaking about her time at sea with the lifeboat Olivia said, “Thinking back over the hundreds of hours I’ve spent at sea on rescues, it is the people that I remember.”

“All those people who we saved and the families whose loved ones we brought home. It has been a privilege for me to be part of Galway RNLI and to serve on the boat with the crews over the past 23 years.”

“I would especially like to thank Paul Carey, Mike Swan and Pat Lavelle, the Lifeboat Operations Managers who were all pivotal in my lifeboat journey.”

Today is the last day for voters to register to take part in the Galway West bye-election being held later this month.

On deadline day An Coimisiún is visiting Scoil Chuimsitheach Chiaráin in An Cheathrú Rua and Scoil Phobail Mhic Dara in Carna to register new voters.

This is alongside running the last day of its voter registration pop-up shop in Eyre Square in Galway City which has been running since Friday.

The pop-up show will operate from the kiosk in Eyre Square until 4pm on Tuesday for anyone who wants to register.

Art O’Leary – Chief Executive of An Coimisiún stated, “At every election people turn up at the polling station ready to vote, only to be told that they haven’t added their name to the register or else their details are incorrect.”

“Don’t be that person, act today, check your details online at CheckTheRegister.ie. Your vote is your voice, check the register today to make sure that your voice is heard in these important bye elections in Dublin Central and Galway West.”

Funding has been awarded for repairs to historic buildings on Dominick Street which house Áras na nGael and Galway Arts Centre.

A total of €170,000 has been awarded under the Historic Structures Fund 2026 for roof works on No.45 and No.47 Dominick Street Lower.

Michael Scott, Executive Architectural Conservation Officer, Galway City Council commented that the buildings are a good example of ‘Galway Georgian’ architecture.

This is characterised by “robust form, refined detailing, simple composition, a dignified presence to the street, and constructed in limestone, a material synonymous with the built heritage of the city since the medieval period.”

The two buildings have a storied history, with connections to the Persse family and Lady Gregory. They have also been used as a technical school and the offices of the then Galway City Borough Council prior to their current function.

“With a combined presence of over 125 years, Áras na Gael and Galway Arts Centre have in their respective ways worked to promote and enhance the value, understanding and enjoyment of the arts, culture, and language in the city,” Michael Scott added.

Following completion of Conservation Management Plans (CMP) for both buildings in 2025-2026, the need for a shared approach to the roof was identified in their Conservation Management Plans.

Megs Morley, Artistic Director, Galway Arts Centre said, “This Historic Structures Fund award is hugely significant for Galway Arts Centre and for the wider cultural life of the city.”

“As one of Galway’s most important cultural organisations, and as custodians of a historic building at the heart of the city, this investment will allow us to undertake essential works that protect both the fabric of the building and the vital artistic activity that takes place within it.”

“No. 47 Dominick Street has been home to generations of creativity, dialogue and cultural exchange, and this support helps ensure it can continue to serve artists, audiences and communities long into the future.”

“We are proud to steward this important part of the city’s heritage as a living space for contemporary culture, and are deeply grateful for this support.”

Mícheál Mac Aoidh, Manager of Áras na nGael commented, “Gael Forbairt na Gaillimhe, the operators of Áras na nGael, are delighted to receive news of the grant from the Historic Structures Fund.”

“Áras na nGael is a distinguished historical landmark in Galway city, providing resources, services and cultural activities to a thriving, vibrant and inclusive Irish language community in Galway city.”

“It is a building where Irish is not only learned but lived and celebrated. The building itself is central to the organisations identity and success, symbolizing its enduring commitment to the Irish language and culture. It is a space where Irish is not only learned, but lived.”

Blackrock Diving Tower in Salthill will be closed to the public at different times multiple days this week while essential repairs to storm damage are taking place.

The main access walkway to Blackrock Diving Tower is being resurfaced by Galway City Council.

This is due to damage to the walkway caused by successive storms over multiple years.

Unfortunately, the works will require closure of the Tower for up to three days. This closure is necessary to allow the works to be carried out safely and to ensure appropriate concrete curing times.

Galway City Council has said they will endeavour to schedule these works at times that minimise disruption.

However, they must be undertaken during low-tide conditions and, ideally, during dry weather.

A design team has been appointed for the project to deliver two new ward blocks with a combined 300 beds at University Hospital Galway.

Perkins & Will together with Cullen Payne Architects have been appointed as to lead an Integrated Design Team through all stages of the design and delivery of the first two major projects on the UHG campus.

The delivery of 300 new beds is meant to alleviate overcrowding, address capacity deficits and reduce the amount of time people are waiting for care, while also supporting future healthcare needs in the community.

The development of ward blocks A and B, each comprising 150 beds, are the first two phases of a major capital programme to increase capacity and improve patient experience at the region’s only model 4 hospital.

A number of phased projects of significant scale are planned in addition to the two ward blocks including; a new ED, critical care unit, new surgical theatres, a cancer centre, medical laboratory, women and children’s unit and a new, permanent helipad which is critical to the functioning of UHG as a Model 4 tertiary hospital.

In addition to providing additional inpatient bed capacity, Ward Block A will include a shell and core level for a future Diagnostics Suite and Ward Block B will include a multi-level shell and core for a future Maternity Unit.

A detailed, costed feasibility study for each of these fit-out projects will be developed at the early design stage of each building.

The new ward Block A will be situated between the current Outpatients Department and the Nurse’s Home in close proximity to the Emergency Department.

Block B will be located to the rear of the hospital, near the new radiation oncology building. Both buildings will be connected to the main hospital across a number of floors.

Considerable enabling works are required to clear sites in advance of construction and separate, dedicated Design Teams are already appointed and proceeding with the design and procurement of these works.

The works include the relocation of underground services, decanting of existing services and demolition of substandard, low rise buildings.

Tony Canavan, Regional Executive Officer, HSE West and North West said, “The Development Control Plan for UHG represents the largest ever investment in healthcare infrastructure in the West and North West region and I am delighted to see these first two projects progress to design stage.”

“The development of ward blocks A and B are a critical component of the plan to reform healthcare for our communities.”

“The 300 new beds will enable UHG to provide better, safer and more timely care; will significantly reduce waiting times for patients and will alleviate the consistent capacity pressures which the hospital experiences.”

Chris Kane, UHG Hospital Manager, said, “UHG is one of the busiest hospitals in the country and attendances continue to grow. At present, meeting our Patient Experience Time targets is a challenge and during periods of high demand, our patients can face unacceptably long wait times. This is not the standard of care we strive for.”

“The need for additional inpatient beds has been identified in the Government’s Acute Hospital Inpatient Bed Capacity Expansion Plan and the delivery of 300 new beds is an absolute priority to reduce overcrowding and long wait times.”

“Over the next few months, the Design Team will be engaging with staff and wider stakeholders as the detailed design for these two new buildings take shape.”

Gardaí are asking the public for any information that can help to locate a missing 47-year old woman last seen on Friday evening.

Gráinne Brown has been reported missing from Ennis, Co. Clare this weekend.

Grainne is described as being approximately 5 foot 4 inches in height, of slim build with brown eyes and straight brown hair.

When last seen Grainne was wearing grey sweat pants, a brown fleece, white shoes, and a fracture boot on her right foot.

Grainne was last seen in Ennis at 6:00pm on Friday, May 1, 2026. Gardaí and Grainne’s family are concerned for her well being.

Anyone with information on Grainne Browne’s whereabouts is asked to contact Ennis Garda Station on 065-6848100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

A Mayo man is in serious condition after being hit by a car in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Gardaí are investigating a serious road traffic collision on the Moneen Road, Castlebar which occurred at approximately 3:30am on Sunday.

A male pedestrian in his late 30s was seriously injured when a collision occurred between him and a car.

He was transferred from the scene to Mayo University Hospital and remains in a serious condition.

There were no other injuries as a result of this incident Gardaí have said.

The road remains closed and the scene will be examined by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators.

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

Gardaí are also appealing for any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) who were travelling in the area at the time of the collision to make this footage available to Gardaí.

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

The Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr David Collins, has announced details of this year’s Cathaoirleach’s Ball, which will take place on Sunday, 31st May at the Raheen Woods Hotel in Athenry.

Proceeds from the annual gala event will go to the National Breast Cancer Research Institute and Epilepsy Ireland.

The National Breast Cancer Research Institute funds a research programme at the University of Galway focused on improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

Currently, 1 in 7 Irish women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, with more than 3,500 cases identified each year.

Epilepsy Ireland, established in 1966, supports people living with epilepsy and their families through community-based services, education and advocacy. The organisation also works to raise public awareness of the condition and improve services and care nationwide.

Cathaoirleach Cllr Collins said the event provides an opportunity for people to support two organisations carrying out important work, while also bringing the community together for an evening of entertainment.

“I want to acknowledge the public and business community who have always generously supported this annual event, which has raised much-needed funds for charities over the years.”

“I hope the funds raised this year will contribute to the ongoing work of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute and Epilepsy Ireland at local, national and international levels,” he said.

Music on the night will be provided by Weightless Astronauts, with Galway Bay FM broadcaster Ronan Lardner acting as MC.

Tickets for the event are available through Corporate Services at Galway County Council, Prospect Hill. Those interested can contact 091 509316 or email secretary@galwaycoco.ie.