COPE Galway supported more than 3,000 people experiencing homelessness, domestic abuse, isolation, and more last year.

COPE published its annual report for 2024 this week, highlighting an increased demand for services last year.

The charity supported a total of 3,184 people through a wide range of issues such as:

• 1,010 older people supported through community activities and social supports, including Meals4Health, a social enterprise of COPE Galway, who produced and delivered 98,954 meals.
• 837 women and children who are subjected to domestic abuse – supported with safe refuge, 1,519 outreach appointments, and other professional supports, such as 214 court accompaniments.
• 1,337 people who are experiencing homelessness – including 164 families with 351 children and 748 single adults – supported with specific emergency, community-based and family responses.

Commenting on the report, CEO Michael Smyth noted, “Many people in our community are experiencing significant challenges in their lives. Our teams are doing extraordinary work to keep people safe and help rebuild lives. Our staff are operating in increasingly difficult contexts, responding to complex needs.”

“At times in 2024, it felt like we were ‘running to stand still’, yet our staff stayed proactive and adaptable, finding creative ways to support people and ease the hopelessness and uncertainty too many faced in their lives.”

Child and youth-focused preventative supports

COPE Galway continued to strengthen child and youth focused preventative supports during 2024.

Solas Óg – the organisation’s therapeutic support service for children and young people affected by domestic abuse – strengthened the self-esteem, resilience and mental health of their clients through 618 private one-to-one sessions last year.

COPE Galway’s Helping Kids First Programme addressed the serious impact of homelessness on children and their parents by supporting the physical, emotional, social and educational development needs of children living in emergency accommodation, working with an average of 120 families at any one time.

Acknowledging the wider cost-of-living pressures, Mr Smyth continued, “We see the devastating impact of poverty and isolation every day. More than ever before, our teams are meeting essential needs, from providing food and clothing to laundry access, alongside crisis support.”

“In 2024, we supported 2,227 people most at risk of food poverty. When it comes to a parent having to choose between buying their child a warm winter coat or a week’s groceries, we do everything we can to make sure the family’s needs are met.”

Transformative supports

COPE Galway also focused on small but transformative supports that counter isolation and trauma.

Mr Smyth noted that the report highlights simple but creative ways the organisation tailored support to clients’ individual and evolving needs.

Throughout the year, they worked closely with clients to design small initiatives that made a meaningful difference, including:

• Creating sensory-friendly spaces within the domestic abuse service.
• Supporting clients living in emergency and temporary accommodations to enhance their gardens, building pride and enjoyment for residents.
• Developing calm spaces where clients could take a break from crisis and feel grounded.
• Early interventions for older people.

COPE Galway also supported older people through a range of early-stage interventions focused on physical activity, social connection, and developing new skills. In 2024:

284 older people took part in community activities such as lunch clubs, coffee mornings, technology workshops, and enjoyed Zumba and other classes at The Bungalow in Mervue.

Sonas Social Centre continued to welcome people who depend on daily drop-ins for connection and support.

Senior Support Service carried out 216 home-befriending visits, with trained volunteers offering companionship and helping older people remain living independently at home.

The report also reveals exceptional volunteer engagement in 2024, with 164 new volunteers recruited, making up a total of 253 volunteers in over 30 roles.

Reflecting on the organisation’s work during a challenging year, Mr Smyth said, “I want to thank our almost 200 dedicated professionals, who meet and connect with each person without judgement, tailoring supports to their unique circumstances.” I also want to pay tribute to the courage and resilience of the people we worked with in 2024, some of whose stories are generously shared in this report.”

“For 60 years, COPE Galway has held on to the hope of the people who turn to us, walking alongside them and supporting them at their most difficult moments,” he said.

“Going forward, we remain determined to meet the challenges ahead, grounded in the support and strengths of our staff, volunteers, supporters and community, who remain at the heart of our ability to respond.”

“As we continue shaping our services around lived experience and aspirations, we are ready for the road ahead. We invite you to learn more in our 2024 Annual Report.”

One of the country’s most established newspapers, The Tuam Herald, is to change ownership.

The Directors of The Herald Printing & Publishing Co. have announced the proposed sale of the newspaper title and related assets to Celtic Media Group.

The proposed sale of The Tuam Herald, founded in 1837, is contingent on approval from the competition authorities and the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport.

Colleagues working in the title were briefed by the Directors, David Burke and Mary Burke earlier today on the decision to transfer ownership to Celtic Media Group (CMG).

David Burke, Managing Director of The Tuam Herald said that CMG, with six established brands and over 400,000 social media followers, has the scale and digital expertise to secure and grow the title.

CMG have been business service partners to The Tuam Herald for over a decade, providing graphic design, digital and management consultancy.

All 12 staff will transfer to CMG, once the proposed sale is approved. The Dublin Road, Tuam, office premises are not part of the transaction and the sale price has not been disclosed. Publishing continues as normal.

Mr Burke said he and his fellow director “wished to exit the business, having gone far beyond normal retirement age”.

“Our family has had a very proud stewardship of The Tuam Herald, with three generations of the Burke family responsible for managing the title for almost a century and I was very proud to have taken on the baton from my father, Jarlath,” he said.

“The time has now come to hand over to a company which can best position the title for the challenges and opportunities to come.”

Frank Mulrennan, CEO of Celtic Media Group, said: “We have been business partners of The Tuam Herald for many years and know and respect the quality of the brand and its readership loyalty in Galway.

“We look forward to working with editor, Siobhán Holliman, and the team, once this transaction is completed, early in the New Year.”

Celtic Media Group (CMNL Limited) was formed in 2012 from a management buy-out, led by its CEO, Frank Mulrennan.

The group employs 72 colleagues and publishes such local titles as Meath Chronicle, The Anglo Celt, Westmeath Examiner, Westmeath Independent, Offaly Independent and The Connaught Telegraph.

CMG operates a graphic design and digital hub in Mullingar providing publishing services to its own titles and a range of peer local titles and commercial outlets, including The Tuam Herald.

Galway City Council has adopted a €160 million budget for the coming year at a meeting this week.

On Monday, the elected members voted to accept a budget of €159,251,136, with a focus on ‘back to basics’ delivery of essential services.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard commented, “I’d like to acknowledge the Elected Members and Senior Management in Galway City Council for their collaboration on the 2026 budget and the exchange and dialogue that has been on-going over the past number of months.”

“It was a difficult process, but the decision of [the] Council positions us now to continue targeted delivery of services in 2026 for the people of Galway City”.

Measures for generating revenue for 2026 in the budget include:

ARV: As part of the adoption of Budget 2026, Elected Members approved an adjustment in the Annual Rate on Valuation (ARV) to 0.2369. This adjustment will generate an additional €1.3m in revenue 2026.

The council has said that, even with this adjustment, Galway is still below ARV rates in the cities of Dublin, Limerick, Cork and Waterford.

Parking: Members approved a marginal increase in parking charges to bring them closer to the charges applied by commercial operators in the city.

The increased rates are €2.50 per hour, with long term car parks at Dyke Road and Cathedral Car Parks charging a daily rate of €10. Monthly parking will remain at €100 per month.

Potential New Funding Sources: Members directed the Executive to explore a number of new potential income sources to fund service delivery including:

• Levies on derelict sites, which includes a mix of residential, commercial and institutional buildings. While no funds have been collected to date for levies issued in 2025, funds will be recoupable when derelict properties are sold in future.
• Rates on new commercial properties – with rates becoming chargeable by Galway City Council after properties have undergone valuation by Táilte Éireann.
• Port of Galway Dividend – subject to the provisions of the Companies Act 2014, a dividend from Galway Harbour Company could generate €100,000 in income.
• Commercial Services – generate additional revenue of €150,000 from the commercial services operated by the Council.

Work areas cut in 2026 include the Joint City and County Economic Strategy, climate action retrofits in community buildings, restoration works in castles, Leisureland and a payment incentive scheme for rate payers.

Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive, Galway City Council said, “The adoption of the 2026 Budget Book positions Galway City Council to continue provision of essential core public services in the year ahead, as part of a wider programme of investment over the five year term of council.”

“We continue to engage with [the] national government to secure funding allocations that reflect Galway City’s scale, growth and cost pressures. As the only city in the western region and a major driver of economic growth, Galway contributes significantly to the national economy.”

“Nearly 30% of all workers in the Western Region live within the Galway city catchment, an increase of 3% since the last Census. Appropriate national allocations, alongside locally raised funds, are essential to deliver for our 84,000 residents, 30,000 students, businesses that choose Galway, and over two million annual visitors.”

“I, as Chief Executive, together with the Directors, CPG (Corporate Policy Group) and the Elected Members, will review work areas to see where expenditure can be paused to avoid a deficit, until the new income sources proposed by the Elected Members become available.”

“In terms of driving forward the strategic priorities for Galway City, we will adjust timelines based on the resources available and look forward to continuing to build national and local resources to invest in our city”.

Key delivery areas for Budget 2026 include:

• Housing and Urban Development: Delivering new housing, and maintaining existing housing stock; addressing dereliction; local area plans for Murrough and Castlegar; and enhancing supports for people experiencing homelessness
• Public services and community infrastructure: increased street cleaning and maintenance to improve customer experience and support the drive for Galway City to build on the Gold Medal in the 2025 National Tidy Towns Awards with an overall win; maintaining community facilities; grant schemes; footpath repairs; market area refurbishment; delivering Green Spaces Strategy; and appointment of a Disability Access Officer.
• Sports and recreation – Continue progression of Masterplans for sports and recreation; pitch and park maintenance; higher sports grants; and city-wide local improvement schemes.
• Economic and Financial Initiatives: small expansion of Shopfront Enhancement scheme; investing in a new Retail Plan for Galway; and investment in festivals and events.
• Workforce and organisation redevelopment: Increased digitisation of services and processes

University of Galway has recognised seven primary and secondary schools for their outstanding commitment to creating welcoming, inclusive, and safe environments for all students.

The awards ceremony was held at the University’s Institute for Lifecourse and Society, celebrating the official designation of the seven schools as Champion Schools of Sanctuary.

A Champion School of Sanctuary is the highest level of the Schools of Sanctuary programme, which follows a “Learn, Action, Share” framework to foster a culture of welcome, challenge prejudice and build understanding about forced migration.

These schools demonstrated actively embedding inclusion across the school community.

The seven designated Champion Schools of Sanctuary are:

• Coláiste Muire Máthair, Galway
• Galway Educate Together Secondary School
• Ballyhaunis Community School, Co. Mayo
• Brusna National School, Co. Roscommon
• Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Limerick
• Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh, Co. Mayo
• Ballinlough National School, Co. Roscommon

The awards ceremony was hosted by the Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and the Access Centre at University of Galway, in collaboration with Schools of Sanctuary Ireland and Galway City Partnership.

The event underscores the University’s commitment to advancing equality and inclusion within the education sector and beyond.

Dr Helen Maher, Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, said, “At University of Galway, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging – not only across our campus, but within the wider education system.”

“The Champion Schools of Sanctuary embody these same values, creating learning environments where every student feels seen, supported, and valued.”

“By recognising and celebrating these schools, we are also acknowledging the powerful role education plays in shaping compassionate, empathetic communities.”

Imelda Byrne, Head of the Access Centre, said, “At University of Galway Access Centre, we are deeply committed to fostering inclusion at every level of education.”

“The Schools of Sanctuary initiative reflects that same spirit – it’s about ensuring every learner feels seen, supported, and valued. We’re proud to celebrate these schools for creating spaces where belonging isn’t just encouraged, it’s lived every day.”

Cllr. Helen Ogbu, Galway City Council, who has supported the work in schools, said, “Across counties and communities, these schools are demonstrating real leadership in creating inclusive and welcoming environments for every student.”

“I’m proud to support their achievements today and to acknowledge the important partnerships driving this meaningful work.”

Sara Hakim, Director of Schools of Sanctuary Ireland, said, “In a current climate of anti-migrant activity and unrest, the granting of this official status to these seven schools is timely.”

“These schools have made a commitment to ensuring their school shines as a beacon of inclusion, welcome and equality.”

Dr. Veronica Crosbie, Chairperson of Places of Sanctuary Ireland, said, “This awards ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate the fantastic integration initiatives happening across the Irish educational landscape, often quietly under the radar of local and national media.”

The awards ceremony was funded by the Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Access Centre at University of Galway, and Galway City Partnership.

Galway’s Black Box Theatre will be a haven of festive cheer this week as the venue comes alive for the annual Local Food and Craft Gift Fair.

Beginning this Thursday, November 27, the festive fair will run throughout the weekend, closing on Tuesday evening, December 2.

Up to 60 stallholders and exhibitors will showcase their products across the six days, and there’ll be plenty of entertainment to ensure there’s something for all the family.

On Thursday, Galway Bay FM’s Ronan Lardner will kick off Christmas with a live broadcast from the Black Box from 12noon to 3pm. There’ll be music from the Out of Towners from 4.30pm until 6pm, with the Fair running until 7pm.

On Friday, the band will be back with live music from 3.30pm until 6.30pm, and Santa will also be spreading festive cheer from 4pm to 7pm.

On Saturday and Sunday, the Fair will open at 10am, with the Out of Towners playing from 12noon to 6pm and the ever-popular Bernardo the Magician wowing the crowd from 12noon to 4pm.

Monday and Tuesday will also see the event open at 10am, with Santa returning from 12noon to 5pm on Monday, and the TLC Choir performing on Tuesday between 12noon and 1pm.

Organised annually by Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Galway, the Fair will showcase the very best of the county’s artisan producers and the event is expected to attract up to 15,000 shoppers across the six days.

Head of Enterprise at LEO Galway, Caroline McDonagh, said shoppers can look forward to getting their hands on some stunning Christmas gifts and treats.

“We have put together a really fantastic line-up of entertainment and exhibitors this year, and we’re delighted that Santa Claus is taking time out of his busy schedule to come and meet the children on both Friday and Monday.”

“There really will be something to suit all tastes and budgets at the Black Box and, for anyone still looking for inspiration for their Christmas shopping list, rest assured, the Local Food and Craft Fair has got you covered.”

Shoppers can expect to find an array of gift ideas from local artists, designers, jewellers, skincare trailblazers, and craftspeople, as well as mouth-watering locally-made food and drinks from some of Galway’s best loved artisan producers. There will also be several food vendors outside the Black Box throughout the six days.

As an added bonus this year, 14 free bus routes will operate from towns all over Galway, taking groups to the Christmas Fair at the Black Box Theatre. Shoppers are advised to book their seats to avoid disappointment.

Bookings can be made by calling LEO on 091 509 090 or online at www.localenterprise.ie/Galway/.

Work on an affordable housing scheme of 56 social and affordable houses and apartments in Loughrea is due to begin before the end of the year.

Galway County Council has signed a €14.95 million contract with C&N Higgins Construction for the construction of 56 homes at Cosmona, Loughrea.

The scheme comprises 44 houses and 12 apartments and includes the first affordable homes to be delivered outside the Galway Metropolitan Area Strategic Plan (MASP).

Sire works on the affordable housing scheme are due to begin before Christmas, the council has announced.

The project is situated on a 3.3-hectare greenfield site owned by Galway County Council, and completion is set for the third quarter of 2027. It is funded through the Government’s Social Housing Investment Programme.

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr David Collins, said the Loughrea scheme represents a “major step forward” in meeting housing need in east Galway.

“This development will provide high-quality homes for families and individuals in Loughrea and will form an important part of the Council’s long-term housing strategy,” he said.

“It is a strong example of sustained investment in our towns and reflects our commitment to increasing supply where it is most needed.”

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, commented, “Housing remains one of our highest priorities and continues to shape the work agenda of Galway County Council.”

“We are focused on delivering homes in every part of the County and supporting people to live securely and independently in their communities.”

“Our delivery programme is accelerating, and we are working closely with elected members, the Department and our housing partners to ensure that social, affordable and cost rental homes continue to come on stream at scale,” he added.

“This investment is essential not only for meeting housing need but for sustaining vibrant, resilient communities across Galway.”

The Loughrea housing scheme, for which Part 8 planning was approved earlier this year, includes 6 two-bed houses, 25 three-bed houses, 2 four-bed houses, 1 five-bed house, 6 one-bed apartments and 6 two-bed apartments.

Landscaped open space, a playground, car and bicycle parking and an Uisce Éireann pumping station also form part of the development.

Damien Mitchell, Director of Services with responsibility for Housing, confirmed that a second phase of the project, comprising an additional 24 homes on the same site, has already advanced to Stage 1 approval.

He continued, “This development in Loughrea is an important step in our ongoing work to increase the delivery of new homes across east Galway.”

“With the support of the Department of Housing through the Social Housing Investment Programme, we can bring forward high-quality housing on council-owned land.”

“Significant progress is being made in addressing the demand for social and affordable housing,” added Mr. Mitchell.

“This progress is being reinforced by targeted measures such as the Disabled Persons Grants and our structured, countywide approach to the refurbishment of vacant housing stock.”

The design team for the new scheme is led by consultants Vincent Hannon Architects, along with Tobin Consulting Engineers, Coffey Consulting Engineers and Tom McNamara & Partners.

The RSA’s free ‘Check it Fits’ roadshow is coming back to Galway in December to let people make sure their child’s car seat is fitted correctly.

Over half of child car seats (54%) checked by the Road Safety Authority’s Check It Fits service were incorrectly fitted and needed some type of adjustment to make them a safe fit.

If a child’s car seat isn’t fitted correctly, it could lead to a serious or fatal injury in the event of a collision.

The Check it Fits service will be travelling the country, including four days in Galway from December 2 – 5.

Ron Richardson, Lead checker for the RSA commented, “While the RSA’s experience with its Check it Fits service shows that half of child car seats are fitted incorrectly, worryingly, it found that 30% of these needed a major adjustment to fix them.”

“For example, the seat being excessively loose so as to make the fitting almost ineffective. 67% were minor adjustments, for example, the fitting being loose or a twisted seatbelt.”

“Having a correctly fitted car seat is a simple measure parents, grandparents and guardians can take to ensure children are safe while travelling by car.”

I would encourage people to visit the Check it Fits service when it comes to Galway and give yourself the peace of mind that your children are travelling safely.”

The service takes between 10-15 minutes and runs from 10:00am – 5:30pm. It is free of charge and offers parents and guardians reassurance that their child is safe while travelling in the car. It is a walk-in service, no appointment needed.

The service will run at the following locations in Galway next month.

It is important to use your child car seat correctly every single time during a car journey, so parents should regularly check the fitting of your child car seat or get it rechecked at a Check it Fits service.

For example, if you got your child car seat fitted in summer, you may need to loosen the harness now that it’s winter and your children are wearing thicker clothes.

If your child’s car seat or restraint is incorrectly fitted, the Check it Fits experts will advise on how to fix the problem, demonstrate how to fit the restraint correctly and answer any queries participants might have to avoid potential serious or fatal injury in the event of a collision.

University Hospital Galway has reported heavy overcrowding today, with large numbers of people on trolleys in the Emergency Department.

Yesterday over 300 people attended the Emergency Department (ED). As of this morning, there are currently 36 patients in the Emergency Department and a total of 50 patients on trolleys in the ED and at the ward level.

The hospital is implementing all possible measures to improve patient flow and reduce delays in the Emergency Department and is asking the public to consider all available healthcare options before attending.

Everyone who presents will be treated, with priority given to those who are seriously ill or injured. Patients who do not require urgent care, unfortunately, may experience longer waiting times.

Due to the pressures on the site and the lack of bed capacity, the hospital is postponing some elective procedures.

Urgent, time sensitive cases are being prioritised. Patients are being contacted directly if their procedure is being postponed.

“All available beds in the hospital are in use. Patients are facing long waiting times to be admitted from the Emergency Department to a bed on a ward,” a statement from UHG said.

“Every effort is being made to discharge patients who are ready to go home so that beds will become available for patients who need to be admitted, at the earliest opportunity.”

“The hospital acknowledges that these delays are very difficult for patients and their families and apologises for the inconvenience and distress these delays cause.”

UHG is urging people to consider going to their local pharmacy, GP, out of hours GP in the first instance if they become unwell.

“As always, people who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend EDs where they will be prioritised.”

There were three Galway winners in the 2025 Garda National Youth Awards, which took place recently, representing the best of their generation.

This month, An Garda Síochána held its annual National Garda Youth Awards, which recognise exceptional young people aged 13-21 who have positively contributed to their community.

This year’s event took place at the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise and acknowledged the remarkable contributions of 25 recipients.

The winners represented Garda Divisions including Kildare/Carlow, Galway, Wexford, Kerry, Dublin, Cork County, Sligo/Leitrim, Limerick, Meath/Westmeath and Donegal.

In Galway, there were two winners in the Group Category. The Connemara Youth Intergenerational Volunteers were honoured for their work from designing a garden for Clifden Day Care Hospital to leading intergenerational events and cultural celebrations. This award was presented to TY students from Colaiste Mhuire.

Also honoured in the same Group category were Tomás, Gearóid & Micheál O’Sullivan, Marcus Leahy & Cillian O’Sullivan of Galway.

In the Individual Category Jack Sweeney was recognised for representing Galway United and Ireland in football at underage level, as well as the effort he puts into mentoring others as a proud member of the Traveller community.

Assistant Commissioner for Roads Policing & Community Engagement, Catharina Gunne, opened the ceremony, while Guest of Honour Miriam O’Callaghan introduced each award category.

Guest speaker, 2025 International Rose of Tralee Katelyn Cummins, was interviewed by Miriam O’Callaghan during the ceremony.

The winners selected by a national panel are:

Community Safety Award
• Foroige Youth Cafe Ballymote – Sligo/Leitrim
• Manel Mestour, Talk About Youth Project – Dublin South Central
• Young Social Innovators, St. Leo’s College (secondary school) – Kildare/Carlow
• Dungarvan CBS TY Group – Waterford
• Colaiste Mhuire, Transition Year Students – Meath/Westmeath

Group Awards
• Moise Hazachiu & Emanuel Andronache – Dublin North Central
• Kerala Badminton – Dublin North
• Crosscare Youth Diversion Programme (YDP) Friday Group – Dublin West
• Connemara Youth Intergenerational Volunteers – Galway
• Tomás, Gearóid & Micheál O’Sullivan, Marcus Leahy & Cillian O’Sullivan – Galway

Individual Awards
• Lee McCabe – Dublin West
• Philip Yeates – Wexford
• Jack Sweeney – Galway
• Rebecca O’Sullivan – Kerry
• Terry Casey – Limerick
• Amy Van Der Merwe – Sligo/Leitrim

23 businesses in Galway were honoured for their work promoting Irish at the 2025 GRADAIM Gnó na hÉireann awards.

This year, 160 businesses received GRADAIM Gnó na hÉireann recognition awards, the highest number yet.

More than 270 representatives from the business sector came together at the awards ceremony organised by Glór na nGael in Croke Park on November 17 to celebrate businesses that put the Irish language at the heart of their work, and/or that provide a level of service through Irish to their customers.

Speaking at the ceremony, Daithí Ó Sé, guest of honour at the event, said that Irish is an added value for businesses.

“As I travel around the country, I see GRADAIM Gnó na hÉireann plaques displayed in businesses, which indicates the importance the language has for them and for their businesses.”

GRADAIM Gnó na hÉireann is a recognition scheme that awards Bronze, Silver or Gold status to companies based on their achievements in one category, in two categories, or in all of the following categories: (1) Signage, (2) Branding and Marketing, and (3) Service in Irish.

The plaque they receive will be on display as a clear indicator to customers of the level and type of service through Irish that they can expect.

According to the scheme manager, Frainc Mac Cionnaith, Enterprise and Business Development Manager with Glór na nGael, he was very pleased that more than 230 businesses were registered with GRADAIM this year.

“These businesses understand the central role our language plays in the culture and identity of the country.”

“They understand that Irish provides a unique competitive advantage that attracts customers, and the number of businesses making use of that opportunity is constantly increasing.”

“This approach is not only a celebration of our cultural heritage, it is also completely in line with good business practice.”

Two separate Fiontraí Óg – Young Entrepreneur awards are presented at the GRADAIM ceremony to young individuals/groups who show an entrepreneurial flair with Irish.

This year the ‘Eco-Paws’ group, Danielle Ní Fhearraigh, Molly Nic Giolla Chomhaill, Fia Nic Giolla Chomhaill and Brianna Ní Fhearraigh from Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair, Co. Donegal, won the award in the 12–18 category.

Aoife Nic Gabhann, who is putting Irish to the fore in McCague’s Bar, An Bhothach, in Co. Monaghan, won the award in the 18–21 category.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the businesses and to the Fiontraithe Óga that received GRADAIM this year,” said Mac Cionnaith.

“During the judging process in September, we saw the valuable work these companies are doing on behalf of the Irish language. I am very pleased that these efforts are being recognised at a national level.”

“The number of businesses taking part this year is a source of pride and shows the high standard of service through Irish that is available, a standard that is going from strength to strength year on year.”

The full list of Galway winners is:

• Anam Grá
• Aoife Dowd Artist
• Bláthanna Fiáine Wildflower Walks
• Clifden Bike Shop
• Connemara Healing
• Cooke’s Caife
• DUINE
• Dréimire Teoranta
• Ealaín Iarthar na hÉireann
• Griangrafadóireacht Inis Oírr
• Iarthar
• Jackie Folan Limited
• Man of Aran Crafts Ltd
• Maan Made
• Neylon’s Pharmacy
• Oileán I.T
• Róisín Ridge Fitness
• Rúnda Coffee Stop
• Spleodar
• Suil Eile Space
• Stáisiún Sheirbhis Bhreathnach Teo
• Teach Nan Phaidí

Traffic disruption is expected in Oranmore this week due to roadworks taking place for an estimated three days.

Galway County Council is carrying out resurfacing works on the Old Limerick Rd, Oranmore.

In order to facilitate this work, a Stop and Go traffic management system will be in place from 9am to 5pm each day.

As a consequence, users of this road are requested to expect delays and as such should allow additional time for their journeys.

The work will begin on Monday, November 24 and is expected to take three days to complete.

A group of second year students from Coláiste Cholmcille, Inverin, Connemara have won the national Youth Engagement in Sustainability (YES) campaign competition with their project “Helping Pollinators in the Environment”.

The project involved collecting bottles through the deposit return scheme and using the funds to plant pollinator-friendly gardens in a local pensioners’ area.

Principal of Coláiste Cholmcille , Mr Peadar Ó Sé said, “We are incredibly proud of our students for embracing sustainability and demonstrating creativity and teamwork throughout the YES campaign.”

“Their commitment to making a positive impact on our school and community reflects the values we strive to instil every day at Coláiste Cholmcille.”

The YES campaign is part of the Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI) World of Work programme and is sponsored by Gas Networks Ireland.

The initiative includes a session exploring key sustainability concepts, after which students were asked to develop a project based on the theme of: ‘How can I make my world a better place?’.

The students from Coláiste Cholmcille were also supported on this project by Derrick Curran, Regional Manager for Iarnród Eireann.

Gráinne O’Reilly, Social Sustainability Manager, Gas Networks Ireland said, “A heartfelt congratulations to Coláiste Colmcille on their outstanding achievement in the YES campaign.”

“Their project, ‘Helping Pollinators in the Environment’, stood out for its creativity and collaboration, and the tangible impact it has had on both the school and the broader community.”

“At Gas Networks Ireland we are continuously inspired by the innovative ideas from young students through the YES campaign.

“The vision and hard work that goes into these entries challenge us to think outside the box and also provides us with fresh perspectives on how we can improve our own practices at work.”

“When we witness such commitment to sustainability, it reaffirms our belief that sustainability is a deeply valued principle here in Ireland. Their efforts are a testament to the positive effect that collaborative partnerships can have.”

Kirsten Barrett, World of Work Programme Lead, said, “We congratulate Colaiste Cholmcille on their well-deserved success in the YES campaign. Their project was a brilliant example of sustainability in action.”

University Hospital Galway (UHG) is inviting the public to participate in a consultation on development plans for the hospital.

The plans aim to future-proof healthcare infrastructure in the region over the coming decades through the development of new infrastructure.

As part of this consultation the hospital is holding two drop-in information sessions which will take place this month.

1. Monday, November 24 – St Joseph’s Community Centre, Shantalla – 11am-7pm
2. Saturday, November 29 – – St Joseph’s Community Centre, Shantalla – 11am-7pm

Chris Kane, Galway University Hospitals Manager said; “We have a long-term vision to build two new bed blocks with 300 additional inpatient beds; a new Emergency Department, ICU and Surgical block, a new cancer centre, laboratory and a new Women and Children’s unit on the campus.”

“We need to expand and develop UHG to meet the growing demand for healthcare services right across our region. Outdated facilities that no longer meet modern standards need to be replaced.”

“We need to ensure the region’s only model four hospital achieves the highest standards and delivers the best possible outcomes for patients.”  

“To help progress these transformative plans, a permanent helipad base is essential. It’s a critical enabler for emergency access and is necessary to deliver complex care for our population.”   

The helipad will allow faster emergency transfers and support service continuity during construction phases. 

“We are now delighted to welcome all local residents, business members and community groups to review our plans for the hospital development and to offer feedback.”

“We want to hear from you. The views of our local community are important and will help to shape the future of healthcare in the West and North West region for the next 40 years.”

Further information about this project is available here: https://www.saolta.ie/content/uhg-public-consultation