Nearly 5,000 students will be officially graduating from Atlantic Technological University this week in the latest round of conferrings across Galway and Mayo.

ATU will host its next series of conferring ceremonies in Mayo, Connemara, and Galway City this November, following the celebrations in Donegal and Sligo at the end of October.

These events mark a significant milestone for graduates across a wide range of disciplines.

ATU Mayo’s conferring will take place this Thursday, 13 November on the university’s campus in Castlebar from 12pm.

Connemara’s conferring will take place the following day, Friday, 14 November on the university’s campus in Letterfrack from 1pm.

The last of the Class of 2025 conferring will take place at the Galmont Hotel, Galway City, on November 18 & 19 from 10am.

Last month, ATU conferred 1,235 graduates in Donegal and 1,735 graduates in Sligo, bringing together families, staff, and communities to celebrate achievement.

The upcoming ceremonies will see 229 graduates in Mayo, 50 graduates in Connemara, and 1,390 graduates in Galway City receive their awards.

These ceremonies will bring together graduates, families, and staff to celebrate academic success and the contribution of ATU graduates to their communities and industries.

With over 4,600 graduates conferred across all campuses this season, the events highlight the scale and diversity of ATU’s impact across the West and North West of Ireland.

Locals in Galway have generated 34,343 Christmas shoebox gifts for children affected by poverty over the last three years – and helped a charity pass the 3 million mark nationally in time for Christmas.

Since 2010, Team Hope has delivered over 2.8million shoebox gifts from Ireland to countries across Africa and Eastern Europe – and will ship off its three-millionth in the coming weeks.

The charity’s figures show that in the last three years, kind-hearted donors in Galway have created almost 34,500 gifts.

And there is still time to increase that total – with drop-off points open around the county until November 15.

“The support we have received from the people of Galway since 2010 has been incredible,” said Team Hope CEO, Deborah Lowry.

“But there’s always a need for more shoeboxes so it would be great if schools, parents, businesses and community groups across the county can come together for one last push to create their own.

“They are often packed by children for children and carry not only toys and treats but also the invisible gifts of love and hope.

“That kindness, travelling across oceans, reminds a child that they are not forgotten – that someone, somewhere cares about them.”

Surpassing the magical 3million shoebox mark ties in with the charity’s 15th anniversary of bringing happiness to children in some of the poorest parts of the world, many of whom have never experienced the joy of Christmas.

Everyone in Galway is urged to continue the effort – filled shoeboxes can be dropped off until November 15 at these locations in the county and nationwide: teamhope.ie/christmas-shoebox-appeal/drop-off-points/.

Donors, if they prefer, can choose to send a personalised €25 shoebox online through Team Hope’s website, right up until Christmas Eve.

The 28th annual Galway Science and Technology Festival kicked off on Sunday with a full day of discovery, fun, and hands-on learning celebrating the wonder of science, technology, engineering and maths.

15,000 attendees from Galway, Roscommon, Mayo and Clare visited the University of Galway campus for a range of activities, including 25 live shows and workshops, plus over 100 interactive stands from local, national, and multinational organisations.

Exhibits included the newly-designed Medtronic Experience, the Medtronic Mystery Experience and the University of Galway’s ‘Explore the Wonders of Science’ exhibition.

Renowned Zoologist Dr Michel Dugon, founder of the Venom Lab at the University of Galway and creator of The Bug Doctor series, received the Galway Science Person of the Year Award.

Recognised for his over 14 years of inspiring children at the Festival and students across Galway and beyond with his live workshops on bugs, spiders, and snakes and important ongoing scientific research at the University of Galway.

A long-standing favourite among school groups and families, making science accessible, engaging, and exciting.

Speaking at the Festival, Senior R&D Director with Medtronic, Ronan Rogers, said, “At Medtronic, our story is one of continuous innovation.”

“From developing the world’s first leadless pacemaker, to today’s breakthroughs in robotics and minimally invasive therapies, and exploring how artificial intelligence will help predict and personalise patient care – science never stands still.”

“The Galway Science and Technology Festival remind us that every breakthrough starts with curiosity, and the next one could come from right here in Galway.”

Professor Becky Whay, Deputy President and Registrar, University of Galway, said, “As lead academic partner, we are proud to support and host the Galway Science and Technology Festival on our campus.”

“This collaboration reflects our commitment to inspiring curiosity and innovation in STEM and showing how these fields connect to real-world impact.”

“Congratulations to our colleague Dr Michel Dugon on being named Science Person of the Year, a fitting recognition of his passion for engaging and inspiring others through science.”

The exhibition once again underscored the importance of STEM learning and curiosity about the world around us.

The Festival team extends gratitude to all exhibitors, volunteers, sponsors, and visitors and looks forward to an even bigger celebration of science next year.

Don’t miss additional upcoming engaging events in November including ‘The Science of Women’s Health’ sponsored by Research Ireland, happening at the Black Box Theatre on Wednesday, November 12.

For a full list of additional events, workshops and walking tours, visit GalwayScience.ie.

For the winter solstice on 21 December, Samaritans Galway is calling on local businesses to light up their premises in green, marking the Longest Night and showing solidarity with those who may be struggling during the darkest time of the year.

The Longest Night campaign highlights that while the nights may be long, Samaritans’ volunteers are always there to listen, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for anyone who is in distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide.

Samaritans Galway, which will mark 50 years in Ireland in 2026, provides a unique and vital service: 100% human support, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Every call and message are answered by a trained volunteer, ensuring compassion, empathy and human understanding are always at the centre of the support offered.

Samaritans Galway is extending an invitation to those who may be considering volunteering. The role involves listening, without judgement, and offering compassion to people in need.

With full training provided, volunteers say the experience is one of the most rewarding and purposeful things they have ever done, whether they have given a few months of their time while living in Galway, or over 25 years of continuous service.

By turning their shopfronts, offices, and landmarks green, Galway businesses can help spread the message that support is available to everyone, day or night.

The initiative aims to spark conversations around mental health, encourage people to seek help when needed, and remind communities that nobody has to face their darkest nights alone.

“A simple act like lighting up in green can have a profound impact. It sends a powerful message of hope, especially on the longest night of the year, that Samaritans are always here to listen,” said a spokesperson for Samaritans Ireland.

“Volunteering with Samaritans is more than just giving time – it is about saving lives, offering comfort, and making a real difference. Many of our volunteers describe it as the most purposeful thing they have ever done.”

Find out more about volunteering and opportunities at www.samaritans.org/ireland. Anyone in need of support: Call Samaritans free on 116 123 at any time, day or night.

A Galway nursing home professional has been recognised among Ireland’s best at the NHI Care Awards 2025, the leading national celebration of excellence in nursing home care.

Kathryn Lavelle, from An Teaghlach Uilinn, Kilrainey, Moycullen, received the Quality Enhancement Award, sponsored by BDO Ireland.

Kathryn was honoured at the NHI Care Awards ceremony on Thursday, 6th November 2025, in the Round Room at the Mansion House, Dublin.

The event was attended by the Minister for Older People, Kieran O’Donnell TD, who also presented an award on the night. The ceremony celebrated exceptional care being delivered every day across nursing homes in Ireland.

There were over 250 nominations submitted from across the country, with 34 finalists selected by an independent judging panel representing nursing, academia, and the wider health and social care sector.

The evening brought together colleagues, families, and representatives from every corner of Ireland, with an atmosphere of celebration, positivity, and excitement filling the Round Room as winners were announced.

“The NHI Care Awards celebrate the extraordinary dedication of those who provide compassionate, person-centred care every day,” said Tadhg Daly, CEO of Nursing Homes Ireland.

“Kathryn Lavelle, reflects the innovation, quality focus, and resident-centred values that underpin excellence in nursing home care. Her commitment to continuous improvement and her contribution to enhancing the quality of life for residents represent the very best of our profession.”

“I also wish to extend warm congratulations to all those nominated across the country this year. Each nominee represents the compassion, commitment, and expertise that underpin quality nursing home care nationwide.”

“We extend our sincere thanks to Minister Kieran O’Donnell TD for attending and presenting an award on the night, and to all our sponsors for their continued support, in particular to Homecare Medical, our long-standing awards partner and key sponsor, whose commitment helps make this national celebration of care possible.”

The Nursing Homes Ireland (NHI) Care Awards, held in association with Homecare Medical, are the leading national celebration of excellence in nursing home care.

The NHI Care Awards honour the dedication, compassion, and professionalism shown by individuals and teams supporting more than 27,000 people living in nursing homes across Ireland.

The Awards recognise outstanding achievements and best practice in every aspect of care, from clinical excellence and innovation to teamwork, resident wellbeing, and quality improvement.

By highlighting these exceptional contributions, the NHI Care Awards showcase the vital role that nursing home care plays in enabling residents to live life to its fullest.

The Aran Islands RNLI Lifeboat Station welcomed multiple new members to its volunteer crew recently.

Avril Ní Shearcaigh, Stacy Ní Iarnáin, Fionn Ó Flaithearta and Peter Alan Joyce each passed their assessment on Tuesday afternoon by Coastal Lifeboat Trainer Sean Ginnelly.

Stacy Ní Iarnáin and Fionn Ó Flaithearta sat an assessment to successfully pass out as Launch Authority, a vital role to approve the launch of the lifeboat when requested by the Irish Coast guard, liaising with the coxswain and paging the lifeboat crew.

Peter Alan Joyce successfully passed out his Tier one Crew plan after many hours of training and hard work.

Peter Alan was assessed on anchoring, rope handling and local knowledge ensuring he has mastered the essential techniques and procedures required for this critical role.

Avril Ní Shearcaigh has joined the Aran Islands station as Lifeboat Operations Manager. Avril was a crew member at the lifeboat station for several years and has now returned to lead the station personnel and volunteers.

She will now be responsible for managing all operational activities at the station. Avril, who is a mom to four and the manager of Comharchumann Fuinnimh Oileáin Árann, brings a wealth of leadership and management experience to the station.

Commenting on her new role, Avril said, ‘I’m delighted to be joining the station as Lifeboat Operations Manager. It’s been a busy year for all our volunteers, with 56 launches so far this year.”

“The lifeboat is our lifeline, so I’m happy to be a part of the team that keeps it ready to respond whenever it’s needed and help continue saving lives at sea.”

“I would like to congratulate Stacy and Fionn and to Peter Alan for passing their assessments. Also, a big congratulations to Coxswain Afloat mechanic, Ciaran Doyle.”

“Ciaran has been training on Inis Mór for the past week and was passed out as a Severn Class Coxswain. We are delighted for him, and we’ll be looking forward to working with him in the near future.”

Atlantic Technological University (ATU) is bringing the wonder of Science Week 2025 to even the most remote corners of the west coast, including the Aran Islands and Gaeltacht communities across Galway, through its innovative Rainbow Lab (Saotharlann an Bhogha Báistí) initiative.

The project, designed for children aged 4 to 8, transforms simple household materials such as water, milk, and food colouring into tools for discovery.

Through easy-to-follow, bilingual activities, the Rainbow Lab helps children explore key scientific principles like light refraction, diffusion, and colour mixing — all while making science fun and accessible.

Already, more than 66 schools nationwide have taken part in the programme, with many in Galway’s island and Gaeltacht areas receiving Rainbow Lab kits containing all necessary materials.

Teachers and parents can also access video demonstrations via QR codes, ensuring the experiments can be carried out in classrooms or at home, in both English and Irish.

“Rainbow Lab is about sparking curiosity and showing children that science is everywhere — in the colours they see every day,” said Dr Oran Morris of ATU. “By making experiments fun and accessible, we hope to inspire a lifelong love of learning.”

The project’s reach into Gaeltacht regions and the islands brings STEM learning beyond urban centres, ensuring that island and rural communities are equally engaged in national initiatives like Science Week.

Co-funded by ATU and Research Ireland, the Rainbow Lab shows how creative outreach can bridge distances — from the classrooms of Galway city to the shores of Inis Mór and the heart of Connemara — making science a shared adventure for young minds across the west.

Clarinbridge has been named winner of the ‘300 – 1,000 Population’ category at the 2025 IPB Pride of Place Awards, held this week.

Nominated by Galway County Council to represent the county in the all-island competition, the south Galway village was selected for its exemplary community development efforts.

The Pride of Place Awards, now in their 23rd year, are organised by Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance.

The programme recognises voluntary groups that demonstrate a strong commitment to improving their local areas through collaboration and civic engagement.

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr David Collins, said, “Clarinbridge’s Pride of Place win is a fantastic endorsement of the dedication and creativity shown by its residents.”

“Their commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive community is truly commendable. I also want to recognise the Marconi Men’s Shed, whose pioneering work and promoting wellbeing sets a powerful example.”

“These groups reflect the best of what Galway has to offer, and my elected member colleagues and I are proud to stand behind them.”

Established in 1979, the Clarinbridge Tidy Towns group has played a central role in enhancing the village’s physical and social environment.

It has been a part of projects involving the maintenance of local landmarks such as The Green, Parish Hall, Kilcornan Estate, and Cowpark. The village also promotes heritage and environmental care through the development of walking trails and green spaces.

Judges commended Clarinbridge’s partnerships with organisations including the Clarinbridge Men’s Shed and SCCUL Sanctuary, as well as its annual events such as Clarinbridge Market Day and Halloween on the Green.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, stated, “Clarinbridge’s success is a proud moment for County Galway and a testament to the strength of community spirit in our towns and villages.”

“I want to warmly congratulate everyone involved in achieving this national recognition. I also want to pay tribute to the Marconi Men’s Shed in Clifden, whose remarkable work in promoting wellbeing and inclusion continues to inspire.”

“Both groups exemplify the values of collaboration, resilience and local pride that the Council is committed to supporting across the county. Well done to everyone involved, including our dedicated Council staff.”

The Marconi Men’s Shed in Clifden also represented Galway County in this year’s competition, competing in the ‘Community Wellbeing’ category.

Although not a category winner, the group was recognised for its innovative approach to supporting male family carers and promoting health and wellbeing in the Connemara region.

The Clarinbridge Tidy Towns group was represented at the awards ceremony by Ronan Kavanagh and Mary Daly.

Ms. Daly said, “We are absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured that Clarinbridge has been named overall winner of its category, which is a true testament to everyone in our village.”

“From the Cowpark and Kilcornan Trails to Market Day and Halloween on the Green, every initiative reflects the spirit of collaboration and pride that defines Clarinbridge.”

Mr. Kavanagh added, “This award belongs to everyone who has ever picked up a paintbrush, planted a flower, or simply anyone who volunteered or shared our journey.”

The two nominated County Galway projects were visited by IPB Pride of Place judges in September, when group representatives made formal presentations before hosting tours that highlighted the elements of the community and volunteer efforts of which they are most proud.

Michael Owens, Director of Services with responsibility for Corporate Services and Rural, Community & Tourism Development & Integration, commented, “Galway’s successful participation in Pride of Place down through the years highlights the scale and breadth of activity taking place in communities across the county.”

“While the competition provides a platform to showcase these achievements, it is the everyday work of these organisations that continues to inspire us and reinforces our commitment to supporting their efforts.”

The win adds to Galway’s strong track record in the Pride of Place competition. Last year, Kinvara Tidy Towns and Williamstown were named runners-up in their categories, and in 2023, Creggs Rural Development Group won the Climate Action and Biodiversity category.

UHG has reported high pressure on its bed capacity and emergency department in recent days, which is expected to continue into the weekend.

University Hospital Galway is advising that the Emergency Department has been exceptionally busy in recent days, with high levels of people attending and admissions.

This increased activity is expected to continue over the weekend. Yesterday, Thursday, November 6, a total of 274 people attended the Emergency Department.

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.

“If you or your family become unwell this weekend, please consider your local pharmacy or out of hours GP in the first instance,” a hospital spokesperson said.

“Roscommon injury unit is open from 8am to 8pm every day and can treat a wide range of breaks, sprains, burns and minor wounds.”

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

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

Lough Corrib has been badly affected by algae blooms around its shores, with some areas particularly strongly affected.

Galway County Council has said that “unseasonal warm and calm weather” is likely responsible for the algal blooms.

This has been reported on all shores of Lough Corrib. The areas reported to be worst hit are Kilbeg pier, Annaghdown, Oughterard, Birchall Bay, Glann shore, Derrymoyle Bay, Rinneroon Bay, and Golden Bay.

The county council has advised that some algae can produce toxins and their presence can potentially cause a risk to human and animal health.

People are advised to avoid contact with areas of shoreline and water which have been affected by algae, and not to swim in them.

Animals should not be allowed to drink water from affected areas, as it may pose a severe health risk.

If you do come into contact with the algal bloom, you should shower/ wash as soon as possible to remove algal matter. Wash all affected clothing and equipment thoroughly.

If you have any further queries regarding this notice, please contact Galway County Council Environment Section Tel: 091 509510 or email environment@galwaycoco.ie.

The Clifden RNLI recovered a submerged sailing boat spotted overturned in Clifden Bay on Wednesday after a call out from the Coast Guard.

A crew member had spotted the upturned hull of a boat in Clifden Bay, which also raised concerns for the sailor of the boat.

Given the short distance from the lifeboat station, Clifden RNLI Helm Joe Acton launched the Silinger boat to investigate. Joe was assisted on the shout by crew members Kenny Flaherty and Dan Whelan.

The vessel was located near the White Lady shoremark in Clifden Bay. It was a small sailing boat which had been in the water for some time and there was nothing to suggest a person was in difficulty.

The submerged boat was causing a navigational hazard for mariners accessing Clifden Bay, so the decision was made to tow it back to shore.

Speaking about the shout Helm Joe Acton said, “As the Winter draws and sea conditions worsen it’s important for anyone going to sea to wear a life-jacket, have a VHF radio or means of calling for help, check the tides and weather and ensure your vessel is sea-worthy.”

“Nobody intends to get in trouble on the water but always call 999/112 and ask for the Coast Guard at the first sign of distress, Clifden RNLI are ready to respond 24/7.”

Breast cancer research scientists at University of Galway have secured a new five-year €1.4 million project to drive the next generation of cancer care as part of Precision Oncology Ireland.

The research is funded by €700,000 from the National Breast Cancer Research Institute (NBCRI), which is matched by Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland.

Supported by the Galway University Foundation, the new commitment by NBCRI to breast cancer research at University of Galway builds on the Signature Partnership with the charity which was announced in May 2025.

It also reaffirms NBCRI’s focus on a research-informed approach to improving patient outcomes, delivered by cancer research experts.

The Precision Oncology Ireland programme will support research by Professor Róisín Dwyer, Professor Aoife Lowery and Professor Michael Kerin, all of whom are based at the University’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences and the Lambe Institute, linking translational and clinical research.

The new investment will enable translational breast cancer research, including:

• Investigation of the potential for treatment of advanced breast cancer using short sequences of RNA – the molecule in all cells which carries genetic codes.
• Identification of biomarkers to predict how patients will respond to treatment, to ensure they only receive beneficial treatments.
• Increasing understanding of factors that impact the quality of life of patients undergoing chemotherapy, such as treatment toxicity, anxiety, exercise.

The research partnership is part of Precision Oncology Ireland Phase 2 which was formally launched by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless T.D.

Precision Oncology Ireland is a consortium of universities, charities and international companies, collaborating to deliver next-generation cancer care in Ireland.

The new commitment, extending to 2030, expands the work progressed in the first iteration of Precision Oncology Ireland, cementing established research collaborations and developing new ones.

Professor Róisín Dwyer, Principal Investigator at University of Galway’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, led the application for the Precision Oncology Ireland research project on behalf of University of Galway and NBCRI.

Professor Dwyer said, “Precision Oncology Ireland-2 provides a unique ecosystem where experts from a broad range of backgrounds come together with a common goal – to improve quality of life and outcomes for cancer patients.”

“We are delighted to continue our involvement in this impactful consortium and look forward to contributing to development of approaches to ensure patients receive appropriate targeted therapies while minimising side effects.”

Caroline Loughnane, Chairperson of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute, said, “The mission of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute is to raise funds to support world-class breast cancer research at University of Galway.”

“We are delighted to match the funding from Research Ireland to support the Precision Oncology Ireland breast cancer research programme at the Lambe Institute.”

“Partnering with national research consortia and collaborators is critical for sharing knowledge to improve our understanding of breast cancer, with the goal of delivering better treatments for patients.”