An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) are appealing to all road users to take action and use the roads with care over the forthcoming August Bank Holiday weekend.

Gardaí are carrying out a roads policing operation across the country this Bank Holiday weekend which began on Thursday morning and will continue until 7am Tuesday.

The appeal comes as the RSA publish their 2025 half yearly report which analyses fatalities from 1 January – 27 July. This report based on 91 fatalities which occurred on public roads over this time period, shows that the number of those killed aged 46-65 is now the highest in six years.

In contrast, there has been a year-on-year reduction in the number of young people (25 years old or less) being fatally injured in collisions. A quarter of the 95 people that have lost their lives this year were in this age range – 14 fewer fatalities than this time last year.

35 drivers, 22 pedestrians, 17 were motorcyclists, eight cyclists, eight passengers and one e-scooter rider have been killed. This shows an increase among vulnerable road users i.e. cyclists, pedestrians and motorcyclists.

Additional findings:

• 27% of fatalities occurred between 12pm and 4pm
• 26% of all fatalities occurred between 8pm and 4am when traffic volumes tend to be lower
• Friday through Monday saw the greatest number of fatalities
• Over half (56%) of all fatalities occurred on 80km/h and 100kmh roads.

Speaking at this morning’s road safety briefing, Minister of State Séan Canney said, “As we head into a Bank Holiday weekend, when many of us may be looking forward to travelling and spending time with loved ones, I urge everyone to be mindful of their own safety and that of others.”

“Simple measures like putting your phone away, slowing down, and paying attention to the road could make the difference that prevents a tragedy.”

Chief Superintendent Ray McMahon said, “This is one of the busiest weekends on the roads. Not just for motorists, but at this time of year, it’s one of the busiest weekends for cyclists and pedestrians.”

“We ask everybody to be very conscious of our vulnerable road users, our cyclists and our pedestrians.”

“We’re asking people to slow down, we’re asking people to just plan their journey ahead. Some will have long journeys this weekend, so take your time and take your breaks.”

“Don’t be using mobile phones or anything that might distract you while driving. We really do not want to be visiting another family with terrible news this weekend.”

“We’re going to be out in force from today straight through to next Wednesday, with extra checkpoints and considerable more enforcement in relation to speeding, mobile phone use, and seatbelts. So please drive carefully and drive responsibly.”

HSE West and North West is advising people to be aware of their options of care this August Bank Holiday weekend.

August is a busy holiday period and this combined with the bank holiday weekend can put extra pressure on the health system and people are advised to familiarise themselves on care options available to them.

Emergency departments will see higher than normal attendances due to the bank holiday weekend, and the HSE is asking for the public’s patience during long wait times.

The HSE is advising that all avenues of care should be considered initially, which may result in ED avoidance.

If you urgently need to see a GP over the bank holiday weekend, you should contact your local out of hours GP service.

Westdoc will be operating at increased capacity in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon from Friday evening until Tuesday morning.

You can find your local GP out-of-hours service at https://www2.hse.ie/services/find-a-gp-out-of-hours/.

Clinics are by appointment only so please call 0818 360 000 in advance to make an appointment.

You can also receive advice and over the counter treatments from your local pharmacy.

Another option of care is injury units which treat non life-threatening injuries such as broken bones, sprains and strains, from knees to toes and from collarbone to fingertips. They also treat dislocations and minor burns.

Injury Units are not able to treat serious head, back or neck injuries, abdominal (stomach) pain, medical illnesses or mental health problems. Patients with urgent and life-threatening injuries should still go to the ED.

The Roscommon Injury Unit treats adults and children from the age of 5 and older.

• Opening hours are 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week.
• Contact Tel: 090 663 2212
• Further information can be found at : https://www2.hse.ie/emergencies/when-to-visit-an-injury-unit/

Plans are in place across hospital and community services to ensure patients can access the care they need in the right setting.

Galway is celebrating a double Lotto delight this July, as two Galway players have claimed a combined total of over half a million euro in National Lottery prizes.

The first big win came on 16th July, when a Galway player scooped the Lotto Plus 2 top prize of €250,000.

The winning Quick Pick was purchased at Circle K, Newcastle Road, Galway City. In a quirky twist, the player presented their ticket at National Lottery HQ in a ziplock sandwich bag, with the player joking it was “the safest place for it!”

The player recalled the moment they discovered the win. “I was at the kitchen table doing some life admin when I saw the news that the winning ticket was sold where I bought mine. I danced around the kitchen when I realised I had won!”

The player plans to put their winnings towards a new home and dream holidays to exotic destinations around the world.

Just days later, on 19th July, another Galway player matched five numbers and the bonus in the main Lotto draw to win an impressive €314,859. The winning ticket was purchased at XL Laurel Park, Newcastle, Galway.

Speaking from National Lottery HQ, the delighted winner said, “I was watching the draw on TV and playing along with my numbers.”

“I couldn’t believe my eyes as each number matched – I thought I was seeing things! I’m looking forward to sharing the win with family, and a sun holiday is definitely on the cards!”

With excitement building nationwide, Lotto players are reminded that tonight’s jackpot is heading towards an estimated €13.2 million, offering another chance to join Ireland’s growing list of 2025 millionaires.

Uisce Eireann has confirmed that the Cleggan / Claddaghduff Public Water Supply is safe to drink after specialised testing.

Last month, Uisce Éireann was made aware of taste and odour issues which are affecting some customers served by the Cleggan / Claddaghduff Public Water Supply.

Test results have indicated the presence of the naturally occurring compounds Geosmin and Methyl-Isoborneol (MIB) in the raw water source.

This may have led to some customers on the supply detecting an earthy, musty smell and taste from their drinking water.

Speaking about the Cleggan / Claddaghduff Public Water Supply, Uisce Éireann’s Eoin Hughes said, “Our primary focus is the protection of public health, and we would like to reassure customers that the water on the Cleggan / Claddaghduff supply is safe to drink.”

“We understand the concerns raised by some customers in relation to the smell or taste of their drinking water.”

“While the smell and taste can be unpleasant for some customers, these naturally occurring compounds are not harmful, and the water remains safe to drink.”

“As a precaution, we have increased testing on this supply and are keeping the situation under close review,” Eoin continued.

While some customers may continue to experience taste and odour issues, the water continues to meet regulatory standards and is safe to drink.

University Hospital Galway is experiencing extreme pressure on bed availability again today due to a high number of people attending the Emergency Department.

On Monday 272 people attended the Emergency Department (ED), resulting in 55 admissions.

As of this morning, there are currently 28 patients in the Emergency Department and a further 20 patients on trolleys at ward level. Additional surge beds have also been opened.

The hospital is advising that patients who attend ED for routine and non-urgent treatment will experience very long waiting times.

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.

Some elective procedures are being cancelled due to the pressure the hospital is under, with patients being contacted directly.

Urgent and time-sensitive procedures are being prioritised due to these pressures.

“With the bank holiday weekend approaching and the Galway Races taking place this week, there will be higher than usual numbers of people in Galway,” a statement from UHG said.

“Therefore, we continue to request that people only attend the Emergency Department at the hospital if it is an emergency situation.”

“We ask that people attend their GP or out of hours service in the first instance if at all possible.”

“The Roscommon Injury Unit is also open from 8am to 8pm daily, to treat a range of injuries in both adults and children over the age of five.”

The Galway Anti-Racism Network is holding a rally this weekend, calling on people to take a stand against hate crimes.

The rally, which is in response to recent hate crime incidents against immigrants, is being held in Father Burke Park in Galway City this Saturday, August 2nd at 2pm.

GARN is a grassroots anti-racism network, founded in 2016, in opposition to the government’s discriminatory Traveller accommodation and Direct Provision policies.

GARN member Deirdre Curran said, “As a Vice Dean for Equality, Diversity & Inclusion at the University of Galway, one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse sites in Galway, I feel a moral obligation to actively oppose hate crime and to give voice to those who are fearful for their safety in our community.”

The network states that government policies on housing, healthcare and justice have contributed to a rise in racist incidents.

Recently, an Indian man was brutally assaulted in Tallaght, while social housing for older people, presumed to be housing for refugees, was burnt to the ground in Ballina.

GARN also says that the organisation has received muiltiple reports of immigrants being harassed as well as plans to hold a ‘national protest’ targeting foreign people in Galway City.

Planning approval has been granted for additional wastewater infrastructure in Galway City to facilitate new housing demand.

Uisce Eireann has been granted planning permission for an underground storage tank at Merlin Park Pumping Station on the Dubin Road.

The development of the underground storage tank will provide additional wastewater storage capacity to the Merlin Park Pumping Station.

This approval paves the way for housing developments across the eastern part of Galway, including the Merlin Woods Social and Affordable Housing Scheme.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard, commented, “It’s great that approval has been granted for this project.”

“This will enable future growth in the east of Galway by addressing wastewater needs and is key to enabling the delivery of new homes and neighbourhoods.”

He added that it will facilitate inclusive growth on the east side of the city and meet rising housing demand with a mixture of social, affordable, and private housing.

Chief Executive of Galway City Council Leonard Cleary said that this is a large step forward for infrastructure in the city.

“This is a very positive development and it will allow progress for priority strategic projects in the east of the City, and in particular will enable much needed housing delivery by the City Council and the private sector.”

Acting Director of Services Elizabeth Fanning added, “This approval for Uisce Eireann is removing a bottleneck that has held back housing development and assists in laying the foundations for Galway’s vibrant and sustainable future”.

University of Galway has dedicated a new ‘book bench’ on its campus in memory of Irish language poet Caitlín Maude, a graduate of the University.

The dedication event was attended by the late poet’s son, Caomhán Ó Luain, and his daughter Fiadh.

The fibreglass bench, shaped like an open book, was created by the Louisburgh Area Men’s Shed in Co. Mayo, with support from the University’s Buildings and Estates team.

It features the Irish language poem ‘Na Blátha’ by Caitlín Maude, along with an English translation by celebrated writer Nuala O’Connor.

Professor Rióna Ní Fhrighil, Head of the Discipline of Irish at University of Galway, said, “Caitlín Maude was rooted in tradition, but she wrote in her own voice, inspired by wider European literary styles.”

“She addresses contemporary social issues in her poetry that still resonate with students today. This strong Gaeltacht woman gave confidence to the Irish language poets that came after her and she continues to inspire young poets today.”

The bench, located in the Máirín de Valéra Garden on the north side of the University’s Quadrangle building, has also been added to the city-wide Galway Poetry Trail.

It is the fourth university location on the trail, joining poems by Terry McDonagh, Louis de Paor, and Michael D. Higgins.

Tom Kenny, co-founder of the Galway Poetry Trail, said, “There are now around 30 poems across the city on the Galway Poetry Trail.”

“It is wonderful to see Caitlín Maude’s poem on the university campus and I’m sure that thousands of people will read it here into the future.”

Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 15-year-old Angel Ndlovu.

The teenager has been missing from her home in Ballybane, Galway, since Monday, July 21.

Angel was last seen in the Ballybane, Galway area on the evening of Monday, July 21 at approximately 6pm.

Angel is described as being approximately 5 foot 2 inches in height, with a slight build. She has black hair and brown eyes. Angel always wears a head piece.

When last seen, Angel was wearing black leggings, a green hoodie and white runners.

Angel is known to frequent Tuam, Co. Galway and Dublin. Gardaí and Angel’s family are concerned for her wellbeing.

Anyone with information in relation to Angel’s whereabouts is asked to contact Galway Garda Station on 091 538 000, the Garda Confidential line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Five projects in Galway have been awarded funding from a €293,252 scheme announced by Minister Patrick O’Donovan this week.

The funding is part of the Small Scale Local Festivals and Summer Schools programme taking place around Ireland in 2025.

Five festival projects in Galway have been awarded funding in total for events encouraging local music and arts, along with heritage and sustainable living.

In Athenry €5,000 has been awarded to the Athenry Arts & Heritage Company for a festival that aims to:

“Foster cultural activity by offering a platform for diverse artistic expressions, including music, drama, and visual arts.

By organising participatory events, the festival actively engages the community, encouraging arts practitioners to demonstrate creativity and connect with a diverse audience.” 

The Centre for Environmental Living has also been awarded €5,000 for a festival that:

“Celebrates creativity, sustainability, and cultural heritage through hands-on workshops, storytelling, poetry and performances.

Showcasing eco-friendly practices and traditional crafts, the festival fosters artistic expression while promoting sustainable living.”

Another €5,000 has been awarded to Comharchumann Shailearna Teoranta for a festival in the Connemara Gaeltacht:

“Féile lán-Ghaeilge drámaíochta, litríochta agus ceoil í Scoil Gheimhridh Joe Steve a dhéanann ceiliúradh ar shaothar agus ar shaol Joe Steve Ó Neachtain- drámadóir, file, aisteoir, gníomhaí pobail agus duine de mhór-scríbhneoirí na Gaeilge.”

Féile Cheoil Larry Reynolds has received €5,000 for a 4 day family-friendly festival:

“Showcasing the historic East Galway Style and Ireland’s rich cultural heritage. Through immersive workshops in traditional music, song, dance, language, along with music sessions, lectures, céilís, CD launches, competitions in Irish Language, Fiddle and Busking, Concerts and a traditional crafters’ village, the festival fosters cultural engagement and artistic expression.”

Lastly, Resurgam Choir CLG has been awarded €4,900 to put on a music festival in Galway City.

“This festival will bring a diverse array of concerts, immersive musical journeys and a
multitude of local and international artists to St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church in Galway in advance of Galway Early Music Festival’s 30th anniversary next year.

The project is designed to reach a wide audience at multiple events across 3 days, delivered by 88 artists.” 

Minister O’Donovan said, “Culture and the arts bring so much richness to our lives. They connect us to one another, remind us of our shared stories and traditions, and celebrate the beauty of coming together as a community.”

“Through the work of my Department, we’re proud to support local festivals and summer schools across Ireland, spaces where people from all walks of life can gather, share experiences, and build lasting connections.”

“From music and storytelling to costumes and folklore, these projects offer a colourful glimpse into our heritage and help shape Ireland’s cultural tourism in a truly meaningful way.”

“The creativity and care that go into each performance and programme are a testament to the passion of those working behind the scenes.

“To everyone involved, organisers, volunteers, artists; I want to say thank you. Your dedication makes these events possible, and I hope people across the country will take the time to enjoy the incredible array of programmes on offer this summer.”

Some 400 homes and businesses in the Tully area of northwest Galway have been issued a Do Not Consume notice for the public water supply

Please note this is not a Boil Water Notice. Boiling the water is not a suitable measure to make the water safe to consume.

It is especially important that mains drinking water is not given to bottle fed infants.

The notice applies to all areas supplied by the Tully – Tullycross Public Water Supply.

An alternative water supply in the form of bulk tankers have been arranged and will be in place from today at the following locations:

• Derryinver Bridge
• Tullycross Church
• Tullycross Community Hall
• Tully National School
• Rogan’s shop, Tully

There will be two IBC tankers at each location, and these will be replenished daily. Customers are reminded to use their own containers when taking water from the tankers and to boil water before consumption as a precautionary measure.

Uisce Éireann’s drinking water compliance and operational experts are working to resolve this situation as soon as possible.

Speaking about the imposition of the notice, Uisce Éireann’s Thomas Gibbons said, “Uisce Éireann is aware of the impact a Do Not Consume Notice has on the community”.

He added the company wants to, “reassure impacted customers we are working to lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible.”

“We would ask customers who have concerns to contact our customer care team on 1800 278 278.”

This water should not be used for: 

• Drinking
• Drinks made with water
• Food preparation, washing or cooking of food
• Brushing of teeth
• Making of ice
• Infant formula

The water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing, flushing toilets, laundry and washing of utensils.

Two special stamps commemorating the 50th anniversary of Druid, one of Ireland’s most renowned theatre companies, were unveiled at the Mick Lally Theatre in Galway this week.

The dramatic stamp pair captures scenes from Druid performances from some iconic Irish plays.

The ‘N’ national rate stamp (€1.65) features actors Marty Rea and Aaron Monaghan in Samuel Beckett’s ‘Waiting for Godot’, 2018.

The ‘W’ international rate stamp (€2.65) shows actor Maire Mullen in ‘DruidGregory’ 2020. Marie was one of the founding members of Druid alongside artistic director Garry Hynes and the late Mick Lally.

Garry Hynes, Co-founder and Artistic Director of Druid, welcomed the stamps, saying, “On behalf of Druid’s co-founder Marie Mullen and the whole Druid team, I wish to express sincere thanks to An Post for this incredible honour.”

“When Marie and I co-founded Druid in 1975 with our dear departed friend and colleague, Mick Lally, we could never have imagined that we would be celebrating our 50th anniversary and certainly not with two commemorative stamps from An Post.”

“Druid is a small theatre company on the west coast of Ireland that has, over the past five decades, travelled all round the world. I hope that these two wonderful stamps will make similar journeys in the weeks and months to come.”

Stamp designs by Atelier David Smith in black, red and gold both feature original photography by Matthew Thompson.

Both stamps and a special limited-edition envelope are available now at main post offices and from anpost.com/Druid, with free delivery.

Founded in 1975, Druid is a theatre company ‘anchored in the West of Ireland’ producing plays both new and old, with daring confidence and creative flair.

Druid has created a rich legacy of hundreds of diverse productions from both established and emerging dramatists and has toured communities all over the island of Ireland and internationally, with audiences in the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Hong Kong.

Anna McHugh, An Post Head of Communications, said, “These special stamps and first day of issue envelope will be appreciated by everyone with an interest in Irish Theatre, and most particularly in the extraordinary people who founded, fuelled and inspired Druid through its first 50 years.”

Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, added that a commemorative stamp issue is one of the highest honours the Irish state can bestow upon an individual or group.

“Druid has shone for Ireland at home and across the globe, working with established and emerging writers, actors, producers and technical crew, producing world-class work that challenges, surprises and entertains audiences.”

The Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland are remembering all those who have lost their lives to the water this World Drowning Prevention Day.

The organisations are jointly appealing to everyone planning a trip on or near water to go prepared and help make sure everyone can come home safely.

Since the start of this year, there have been 42 drownings in Irish waters, that’s 10 more people than for the same period last year.

These are not just statistics, but a reminder of the many families affected by drowning incidents in recent months.

With the recent warm weather, many people have headed to the water to socialise and cool off unaware of the dangers open water presents.

The three organisations say they want people to enjoy recreational activities associated with the water, but are pleading with people to know the risks, plan and prepare, and to look out for each other.

To stay safe:

• Check the weather and tides before heading out, and if walking the shoreline, be vigilant for incoming tides that can cause strandings.
• Be aware of rip currents – strong currents can pull even the most experienced swimmers out to sea.
• Go to lifeguarded beaches, always swim with others, never alone.
• Always swim within your depth and stay within your depth.
• When on the water, always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid.
• Remember, children require constant, uninterrupted supervision near water.
• Let someone ashore know of your plans and return time.
• Always have a means to call for help, such as a fully charged mobile phone or marine VHF Radio.

If you find yourself in difficulty in the water, Float to Live:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged
• Relax and try to breathe normally
• Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat
• It’s OK if your legs sink, we all float differently
• Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.

If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or think that they are in trouble, use marine VHF radio Ch 16 or dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.

This year marks 20 years of the Frances Thornton Memorial Galway Bay Swim, which has grown into a massive annual event in the past two decades.

Since the first crossing in 2004 with just three swimmers, the event has grown into one of Ireland’s largest and most loved open water challenges.

On Saturday, July 19, over 160 swimmers took on the 13km stretch across Galway Bay in aid of Cancer Care West.

To mark this anniversary, organisers are inviting people everywhere to take on the challenge their own way, by swimming the same distance of 13km throughout the month of August in any body of water that suits them.

Whether it’s in a sea, lake, river or pool, swimmers of all levels are encouraged to get involved.

Inspired by the global response to the 2020 virtual swim during the pandemic, ‘Swim the Bay Your Way’ offers the same shared sense of purpose and community.

That year, people swam wherever they could, creating a collective experience of positivity and support and this year, they can do it again.

Journalist and Cancer Care West board member Lorna Siggins shared her perspective, “As a bit of a sailor and paddler, my instinct has always been to keep one’s head above water.”

“However, since moving to Galway, I’ve been so impressed by swimmers and boat skippers who invest so much of their time in navigating the bay at the mouth of the Atlantic every year. And all for a brilliant cause, in memory of the late Frances Thornton.”

“When Cancer Care West ran a virtual swim during Covid, I only remember beautiful sunrises and mill pond seas off Palmer’s Rock, because I only swam on the good days.”

“I’ve survived the actual crossing since, thanks to a wonderful relay team, and I now know how truly mighty, marvellous and magnificent all those regular bay swimmers are – along with their support crews and shore volunteers.”

The virtual event offers a taste of all that, but without the pressure and with the option to enjoy birdlife and sunrises, a cuppa and a chat about jellyfish, anywhere in the world that it is safe to do so.”

Brian Thornton, board member of the Galway Bay Swim, highlights the value of the initiative, saying that it has grown into something truly special.

“People take on the challenge for many reasons to honour a loved one, to celebrate a milestone, or simply because the bay is there to be crossed.”

Brian said that the ‘Bay, You Way’ initiative is a great way for people to get involved, highlighting its accessibility as a great entry point for swimmers of any strength.

“You can do it with friends or on your own. And it’s a great way to get fit while helping a local charity that supports so many families.”

All funds raised in the event go directly to Cancer Care West. This incredible local charity provides support for cancer patients and their families, including hospital accommodation for people receiving radiotherapy at UHG.

Other support services such as reiki, meditation and yoga help with people’s physical and mental wellbeing.

Everyone who completes the 13km challenge in August will receive a commemorative swim cap and medal.

More than 6,100 people and 1,450 businesses in Galway took part in upskilling services organised by Skillnet Ireland last year.

Figures from the Skillnet Ireland Annual Report 2024 reveal that the national agency for talent development delivered over 53,660 training days in Galway last year.

Of those who undertook training, 53% were men and 47% were women, while those aged 30 to 39 availed of upskilling supports more than any other age group.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, said, “As the national workforce development agency, Skillnet Ireland plays a key role in developing the talent that Irish businesses need through upskilling and reskilling.”

“In 2024, it supported over 24,000 businesses, the vast majority of them SMEs, to address their skills needs in order to remain competitive.”

“By supporting Irish businesses to upskill and reskill, Skillnet Ireland is helping to foster resilience and innovation, so that companies can adapt to and meet the challenges posed by the digital and green transitions.”

The vast majority (91%) of companies in Galway that upskilled their employees with Skillnet Ireland in 2024 were small and medium size enterprises.

The greatest uptake came from the technology sector followed by services, health, pharmaceutical, agriculture, life sciences and engineering.

Companies based in Galway undertook upskilling programmes with more than 50 of the 70 Skillnet Business Networks based on the sector in which their company operates, or with one of the Networks in their region, which include Galway Executive Skillnet, Itag Skillnet and Gréasan Na Meán Skillnet.

Skillnet Ireland Chief Executive, Mark Jordan, said, “As a knowledge-based economy nurturing our highly skilled workforce is central to our national competitiveness.”

“Over 24,000 Irish businesses chose to invest in upskilling and develop their people through Skillnet Ireland in 2024, which indicates the appetite for upskilling within the corporate landscape.”

“We are proud to support employers throughout Ireland to both invest in their teams and strengthen Ireland’s position as a leader in innovation and sustainable growth.”

More than 24,000 businesses participated in upskilling programmes for their employees through Skillnet Ireland last year, amounting to 90,136 workers across the Irish economy.

Through a cost-sharing approach with employers, contributions from businesses represented 37% of the total investment into upskilling for businesses, €28 million out of €76 million spent.

This demonstrates a high level of confidence and buy-in from companies developing their teams in partnership with Skillnet Ireland.