Speed cameras go live at two new Galway locations

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July 26, 2022

Claddagh Nun, the Long Walk, Galway (Photo by Jonathan Curran, February 2012)

A local People Before Profit representative has demanded that the release of wastewater into the Claddagh be ceased immediately.

The call comes after photographs of wastewater, which was seen entering the Claddagh Basin on Sunday, surfaced on social media.

PBP Galway representative Adrian Curran said that the issue has been going on for years.

He said this shows Galway City Council has caused Ireland to be in violation of the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations and that it introduces a serious public health issue.

“In the current climate and biodiversity crisis, it is essential we do everything to protect these important species and their habitats.”

On what action needs to be taken, Curran said that a complete investment in a significant upgrade of wastewater facilities is needed in Galway.

“Improvements in Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems and facilitating more green spaces to prevent excess water build up.

“The law must also be changed, or at least better enforced, preventing these events from happening in the first place. The local government must step up and protect our natural resources.”

Galway man to take on 113 km Ironman race for worthy cause

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July 25, 2022

Galway man Peter Crowe will undertake a gruelling 113 km Ironman race in Salalah, Oman in September to raise funds for The Bow Foundation.

The foundation is a charity focused on supporting families impacted by GNAO1 – rare neurodevelopmental disorder currently only known in approximately 250 children globally.

The money raised will also go towards funding research and raising awareness about the neurodevelopmental disorder.

Peter’s friends’ son Rian is affected by the rare condition, meaning it is a cause which is close to his heart.

Rian, who is nearly two, had his first seizure when he was just two months old. Multiple tests such as EEGs, MRI, spinal tap, multiple blood tests, and finally, whole genome genetic testing led to the discovery of his GNAO1 mutation.

It is a relatively new condition, with the first case being discovered in 2013. The most common initial symptoms of GNAO1 include low muscle tone (hypotonia), not meeting developmental milestones, seizures, difficulty feeding and abnormal involuntary movements.

As there is no known cure, numerous medications are used in an attempt to manage symptoms. Most GNAO1 patients are non-verbal and wheelchair dependent. The Bow Foundation funds groundbreaking research across the globe for GNAO1 warriors and their families.

Their current research includes exploring gene therapy treatment that could either supplement or silence and replace the faulty GNAO1 genes that trigger symptoms in patients.

One hundred percent of the funds raised from this will be donated directly to The Bow Foundation after the race is complete. All travel, race, personal expenses etc. will be covered by Peter.

Call for investigation into potential bid-rigging of public works contracts

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July 25, 2022

Galway Daily news Freedom of Information

Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell has called on Minister Michael McGrath to request an investigation into potential bid-rigging of public works contracts.

The call comes after the Spanish Competition Authority issued fines of over €200m to six major construction companies for colluding on bids for public contracts.

Five of the companies are heavily involved in Irish public-private partnership projects, particularly motorways.

Bid-rigging is a form of collusive behaviour by contractors to increase the price of a contract or to allow a pre-selected contractor to win a competition for a building project.

It is a practice described by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) as ‘a serious form of anti-competitive behaviour’.

Reuters reported that the six companies met on a weekly basis from 1992 to 2017 to discuss the projects they were planning to bid for, and to coordinate strategy.

Deputy Farrell said that given the significant involvement of these companies in Irish infrastructure projects, we have to question whether this practice was taking place here.

“This practice pushes up the prices for public works contracts, and given the large amount of spending which has been outlined in the National Development Plan (NDP), it poses significant fiscal risks.”

She said that our Competition Authority has been pointing out since the 1990s that bid-rigging is a serious concern here, and it sought more powers in the 90s to deal with this, which were granted.

“Its powers were also further enhanced in the last few years. But the difficulty for Ireland dealing with this is that the state’s characteristics make us particularly vulnerable to this practice,” said Deputy Farrell.

“Characteristics like a limited number of alternative suppliers, high barriers to entry, opportunities for repeated interactions among competitors, active trade associations which can be used, either wittingly or unwittingly, to facilitate coordination amongst competing firms, and close connections between political parties and certain industries.

“I am now calling on Minister McGrath to request the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) to investigate this matter.”

Galway Races to cap off €100 million month for city and county

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July 25, 2022

Galway Daily news Galway Races won't be open to the public, if they take place at all

The Galway Races this week will round off a €100 million month for Galway, according to estimates from the Galway Chamber.

A range of cultural and tourism events have taken place in Galway over the past few weeks including the Galway Film Fleadh and the Galway International Arts Festival.

And it is believed that the Galway Races this week will attract 130,000 people to the region, contributing over €58 million to the local economy.

Galway Chamber estimates that €23 million will be spent in the immediate locality on hospitality, entertainment, travel and accommodation.

There was a bumper attendance at the Galway International Arts Festival this year with the weekend of July 15 to 17 described as ‘the busiest ever’.

“This has been a tremendous month of activity for Galway, which is now set to finish off with the full return of the Galway Races,” said Kenny Deery, Chief Executive of Galway Chamber.

“It hasn’t been possible to properly enjoy these various events over the last couple of years due to the necessary precautions taken for the pandemic.

“However with the health situation now improved people have wanted to get back to these much cherished events and they have certainly done that this year.”

Kenny Deery said the boost has been felt throughout July all across Galway, with greater tourist activity beginning with the Galway Film Fleadh and then really ramping up with the Galway International Arts Festival.

“Such was the quality and diversity of the line-up this year we had tourists flocking to Galway from all over Ireland and beyond to enjoy the delights of the festival,” he said.

“Of course the Galway Races will represent the culmination of this all activity and we are really excited to have the ‘buzz’ generated by the races back once more. The races are one of the key cultural and social highlights of the Irish summer and it is a great relief to see its return.

“Whether it is the race goers flocking to Ballybrit, or the crowds of people enjoying their post racing socialising, the Galway Races have always brought something special to our city and county.

“There will be tremendous energy throughout Galway City and County during race week and we all know how people travel from far and wide to attend.”

Appeal lodged against rejection of 24m high mobile mast

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July 25, 2022

Galway Daily news Planning refused again for Galway City mobile tower

The City Council’s refusal of planning permission for a 24m high mobile telecoms mast on the west side of the city is being appealed to An Bord Pleanála.

Vantage Towers Ltd sought approval from the council for a 24m high lattice telecoms tower off the Cappagh Road, north of the junction with the Western Distributor Road.

The plans were rejected by Galway City Council last month, due to the proximity of the site to the proposed N6 Ring Road route, an issue which was also raised by Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

“If permitted, the proximity of the proposed development will prejudice the plans for the delivery of this scheme and materially contravene the policy of the Galway City Development Plan 2017 – 2023,” the council’s decision said.

That decision has now been appealed to An Bord Pleanála, which is due to rule on the case by November 14 of this year.

In seeking approval for the mast, Vantage Towers said that it was necessary as the existing monopole mast on the site is being decommissioned.

The plans said that the application is specifically on behalf of Vodafone, but that the mast would also be of use for Eir and Three.

Údarás na Gealteachta backs creation of 100 jobs in Galway, Donegal & Kerry

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July 25, 2022

Galway Daily news Two Galway women appointed to Board of Údarás na Gaeltachta

Údarás na Gaeltachta has given the green light to projects that will create 100 jobs among companies in Galway, Donegal, and Kerry.

The projects were approved by the Board of Údarás during a recent meeting held on Toraigh (Tory Island) for the first time.

These projects lead to the creation of 100 fulltime jobs and entail significant investment in the Gaeltacht areas when they come to fruition.

The meeting was also the last of outgoing chief executive, Mícheál Ó hÉanaigh, whose contractual term comes to an end on August 31.

Board chairperson Anna Ní Ghallachair said that the chief executive had done great work during the previous five years, and that the results of this hard work would be evident across the Gaeltacht for years to come.

She praised Mr Ó hÉanaigh for broadening the scope of Údarás’ work, including connecting with the Gaeltact diaspora, the gteic digital hubs, and other achievements.

Roinn na Gaeltachta has also approved Language Planning Schemes for all language planning areas, and 22 of those plans were being implemented.

The board thanked Mícheál for all he had done on behalf of the Gaeltacht community and wished him all the best in the future.

Lidl submits plans for Portumna supermarket

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July 25, 2022

Galway Daily news Lidl appeal rejection of Portumna supermarket plans

Lidl have submitted plans to Galway County Council for the construction of a new supermarket in Portumna.

Planning permission is being sought for a supermarket with a total floor space of 2,275m², and 1,409m² of retail space, on a site between Clonfert Avenue and Dominic Street.

The supermarket would have pedestrian and vehicle access onto both roads, and would be served by 115 car parking spaces, and eight bicycle spaces.

A planning report submitted with the application states that it is expected to create 25 permanent jobs when open, and in excess of €1.5 million worth of wages during the construction phase.

The report also states that developing a new physical retail store in Portumna would help stop money going to other catchment areas, or online food shopping.

It also states that additional retail offerings are needed to accommodate future population growth in the town and surrounds.

A Natura Impact Statement, Retail Impact Assessment, Tree Survey, and Flood Risk Assessment have been submitted with this planning application.

Galway County Council is due to decide whether to grant planning permission to Lidl by September 12 of this year.

Homecoming for Galway Senior & Minor Footballers today

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July 25, 2022

Galway Daily sport Tuam Stadium awarded €90,000 under sports capital grants

A homecoming event for the Galway Senior and Minor Footballers is being held in Tuam this afternoon, to honour the minor champions, and the senior squad who fought to the very end.

The County Council and Galway GAA are hosting a homecoming for both sides at Tuam Stadium this afternoon.

The Galway Senior Footballers narrowly missed out on taking home the Sam Maguire on Sunday after a hard fought match against Kerry.

It really came down to the wire at Croke Park on Sunday, as both sides were neck in neck for the best part of the match, until Kerry pulled away in extra time.

The Minor Footballers have been enjoying their own victory for the past few weeks, after being crowned All-Ireland Champions earlier this month.

A Mayoral reception for their achievements already took place in Galway City this month.

Gates for the homecoming will open at 1pm with entertainment beginning shortly afterwards.

MC for the evening will be John Mulligan, Sports Commentator, Galway Bay FM, with the Minor team expected to be on stage by 2.30pm, and the Senior Team expected at 3pm with the event concluding at approximately 5pm.

The family friendly event is alcohol free, with patrons advised not to bring large back packs to the ground.

If they do, the items will be searched and bottles or any items of concern will be confiscated.

There is no parking available at the grounds but Galway County Council carparks will be open & free of charge to supporters.

Traffic restrictions may be in place for the event in the area around Tuam Stadium.

In the interest of public safety Galway County Council, Galway GAA and Gardaí ask supporters to arrive early and to follow the directions of the stewards.

All-Ireland SFC Final: Galway lose out to Kerry after tight game

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July 24, 2022

Galway Daily sports All-Ireland SFC Final: Galway lose out to Kerry — The Sam Maguire cup with the Kerry and Galway jerseys at Croke Park in advance of the GAA All-Ireland Senior Football Championship Final match between Kerry and Galway in Dublin on Sunday. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Galway have narrowly failed to win the All-Ireland SFC final today after an incredibly tight game at Croke Park against Kerry.

The score board was a dead heat between Galway and Kerry for almost the entire match, before Kerry opened up a lead in the final minutes of extra time.

The final score at Croke Park today was 0-20 to 0-16 in favour of Kerry.

The first half saw the two sides trade points tit for tat, with Galway leading 0-08 to Kerry’s 0-07 at the half time whistle.

Kerry saw a lot of scoring opportunities go to waste during the first half, with seven shots going wide, far more than Galway.

Both sides got off to a quick start in the second half, with a point apiece in the first two minutes.

This trend continued throughout the second half, with the two sides spending most of their time level, and rarely with more than a single point between them.

However, the final few minutes saw Kerry open up a four point lead over Galway in the final few minutes of the match.

Connacht Academy squad named for 2022/23 season

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July 24, 2022

Galway Daily rugby Four changes made to starting XV for Connacht v Glasgow

Connacht Rugby have announced that a 13 man squad has been named for this seaon’s Connacht Academy so far.

There are six Year 1 additions, including U20 Six Nations winner Matthew Devine and his brother John, both of whom came through the ranks at Garbally College and Ballinasloe RFC.

Also included is Ballina RFC’s Harry West and a trio of Ireland U20 Six Nations winners – Daniel Hawkshaw (brother of new Pro arrival David Hawkshaw), Oisin Michel and Leitrim native Shane Mallon.

Moving up to Year 2 are Sligo’s Hubert Gilvarry, Buccaneers RFC duo Will Reilly and Josh O’Connor, and prop Bart Vermeulen.

Completing the squad so far are Year 3 players Eoin de Buitléar from An Cheathrú Rua, Sligo native Donnacha Byrne, and prop Charlie Ward.

Connacht Rugby has said that further players may be added to the Academy squad as the year progresses.

Year 1
Matthew Devine – Scrum-Half
John Devine – Centre
Daniel Hawkshaw – Centre
Shane Mallon – Centre
Oisin Michel – Prop
Harry West – Out-Half

Year 2
Hubert Gilvarry – Scrum-Half
Josh O’Connor – Back Three
Will Reilly – Scrum-Half
Bart Vermeulen – Prop

Year 3
Eoin de Buitléar – Hooker
Donnacha Byrne – Back Row
Charlie Ward – Prop

SAP celebrates 25 years in Ireland

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July 24, 2022

Galway Daily business SAP celebrates 25 years in Ireland

Global technology company SAP recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of its operations in Ireland, which now employ 2,300 in Galway and Dublin.

To mark the occasion, Minister of State and Galway TD Hildegarde Naughton joined Managing Director of SAP Ireland, Liam Ryan, and Clas Neumann, Global Head of the SAP Labs Network at their Galway offices.

“I’m hugely impressed with the achievements of SAP since they located in Ireland 25 years ago,” Hildegarde Naughton said.

“SAP makes a significant contribution to the local economy both here in Galway and in Dublin. I would like thank SAP for their continued commitment to Ireland and to wish the team well for many more years to come.”

SAP Ireland began in 2003 with just 30 people working on the single floor of an office in East Point Business Park, Dublin.

It now employs 2,300 people in over 55 lines of business in both Dublin and Galway, working in a wide variety of fields.

SAP’s teams in both Dublin and Galway are responsible for the delivery of services and support for its EMEA and Americas customer base and the company is engaged in Research & Development for planning and analytics on the SAP Business Technology Platform.

SAP also offers a variety of careers in sales, partner services, financial shared Services, cloud services, technical writing, e-learning, translations, and license auditing.

Martin Shanahan, CEO of IDA Ireland said, “I want to congratulate SAP on this really important milestone of 25 years in Ireland. SAP has played an important role in the development of Ireland’s tech ecosystem.”

“As one of Ireland’s largest and most-established tech companies, SAP’s investment in Ireland over the years and ongoing education initiatives have greatly enhanced our reputation as a tech hub in Europe.”

Garda advice for Galway fans headed to All-Ireland final

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July 24, 2022

Galway Daily sports Public consultation on adding 14 new sporting events to free-to-air TV

Gardaí have issued advice for Galway fans travelling to Dublin for the All-Ireland football final today, with traffic enforcement in full swing.

More than 82,000 people are expected to attend Galway v Kerry for the fully sold-out All-Ireland Senior Football Championship Final.

People travelling to Croke Park are being asked to consider using public transport and the park and ride facilities as much as possible.

Clonliffe College is no longer available for car parking, and full details of the parking options available can be found at https://crokepark.ie/getting-here/match-concert-parking.

On street parking is very limited due to Croke Park being situated in a residential area. There will be strict enforcement of all illegal parking in the area by Gardai and Dublin City Parking Services.

Patrons should be aware that illegally parked vehicles will be impounded or clamped and will be liable to a substantial fine.

There is one car park in the vicinity of Croke Park at O’Connell’s School, North Richmond Street, with 400 spaces, and entry via the North Circular Road.

There is also coach parking at Great Western Way, and limited facilities at Mountjoy Square East and South. Parking here is on the park side of the street only.

There will not be any facility for coach parking on Mountjoy Square North or West.

Road safety concerns sink Oughterard housing plans

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July 23, 2022

Galway County Council has refused planning permission for a housing development in Oughterard due to road safety concerns.

Plans were submitted for four townhouse type houses at Carrowmanagh in Oughterard.

The site is surrounded by established residential areas, with housing estates to the north, west, and south,

In refusing planning permission, the county council said that the developer had “failed to address the impact that the proposed site access would have on the public road”.

The biggest issues were the, “insufficient visibility of pedestrians and vehicles on exit from the site to the south and, similarly, alterations required to the entrance and public footpath to accommodate the development”.

The council noted that the entrance and public footpath, which the plans called for changes to, lie outside of the boundary of the lands in the planning application.

Bus Éireann running direct shuttle service for Galway Races

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July 23, 2022

Galway Daily news Bus Éireann running direct shuttle service for Galway Races

Bus Éireann will be running a direct shuttle bus service from the city centre out to Ballybrit for the Galway Races next week.

From Monday, July 25 until Sunday, July 31, a shuttle service will operate every 10 minutes from Eyre Square out to Ballybrit Racecourse.

Bus Éireann is running the special services all week from Eyre Square West, by the Skeff Bar, with over 20,000 seats available on services across the week.

For the return journey to the city centre, the service will operate from the same location and also from the coach park at the back entrance

“We are happy to be providing race-goers an opportunity to leave their cars at home when travelling to the Galway Races,” said Brian Connolly, Bus Eireann Senior Operations Manager, West.

“The Galway Races is a highlight of the summer in the city and Bus Éireann is proud to play our part in bringing customers to and from Ballybrit in comfort on one of our special direct shuttle services.”

“Taking one of our special services means customers don’t need to worry about fuel prices or car parking and can arrive ready for a day of great racing.”

The service will operate every 10 minutes each way starting from 2pm for the Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, with the final return journey from the racecourse at 10:30pm.

On Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, the shuttle service will commence at 11am, and the final return journey will be at 9pm.

An adult return fare is just €10 and a child return fare is €5, passengers can only pay in cash and pre-booking is not necessary.

“We look forward to welcoming people from across Ireland to Galway this July for a week of fantastic racing,” said Michael Moloney Chief Executive of the Galway Races.

“The Galway Races is Ireland’s largest horse racing festival and we are encouraging visitors to leave their car at home where possible and take the coach.”

“We want to thank Bus Éireann for offering these special, non-stop services which will bring festival goers from Eyre Square to Ballybrit in no time at all.”

Man sent to trial charged with pulling knife on Garda

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July 23, 2022

Galway Daily courts Man sent to trial charged with pulling knife on Garda

A man who allegedly drew a knife on a Garda after being pursued has been sent forward to trial at the Circuit Court.

A book of evidence was served on Dominic Downes (27), of no fixed abode, at Galway District Court recently.

He has been charged with obstructing Garda Jonathan Durkin by threatening to assault him on Market Street on February 2 of this year.

Downes has also been charged with possession of a weapon, a hunting knife, and producing that weapon while threatening Garda Durkin.

Judge John King had refused jurisdiction in the case last May, after hearing an outline of the alleged facts.

It is alleged that back in February, Downes pulled a hunting knife after being pursued by Gardaí when he fled an earlier interaction.

Gardaí had been speaking with a group of men who were reportedly causing a disturbance outside a store on Shop Street before Downes ran, it is alleged.

The book of evidence also contains a charge of failing to appear before the court last January.

Judge Mary Fahy consented to the case being sent forward to session of Galway Circuit Court this October.

The judge informed Mr Downes that if he wishes to use an alibi in the defence of his case, he must inform the state of it.

Free legal aid was awarded to Brian Gilmartin solicitor, and one junior counsel.

Funding for two local arts & music festivals in Galway

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July 23, 2022

Bandwagons MAD festival — The Bandwagons at the M.A.D Festival 2021 in Athenry. Photo Credit: Athenry Heritage Centre via Twitter.

Grants have been provided to support two arts and music festivals in Galway this year, under a scheme supporting smaller local events.

Minister Catherine Martin has awarded €5,000 each for two events in Galway under the Small Scale Local Festivals and Summer Schools scheme.

The Athenry Arts & Heritage Centre is putting on its annual Music, Arts, and Drama (M.A.D) Festival this summer.

This promises to be a “community multi-disciplinary event with an objective to provide an inclusive and accessible arts programme for all to enjoy.”

Another grant has been provided for Féile Cheoil, a “weekend of Irish music, arts and Heritage and aims to keep his love and the tradition of East Galway Music culture and heritage alive.”

This scheme aims to support local cultural events which may not be eligible for funding for larger scale events such as those supported by Fáilte Ireland, the Arts Council and similar bodies.

Minister Catherine Martin said that she was pleased support the scheme this year, adding, “Culture and arts add hugely to our lives and to our community.”

“These projects make a very important contribution to the development and promotion of Ireland’s cultural tourism offering, to the benefit of both the domestic and foreign tourist.”

“I send my congratulations and best wishes to the organisers and I hope that the attendees enjoy the events.”

A total of 34 events were awarded funding totaling €122,045 under the scheme this year.

All-Ireland SFC Final: Galway team lineup announced

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July 23, 2022

The lineup of the Galway Senior Football team that will compete in the All-Ireland Final tomorrow has been announced, with no changes made.

Galway and Kerry will face off for the Sam Maguire Cup on Sunday in Croke Park, with throw-in a 3:30pm.

It’s been more than 20 years since Galway last brought home the Sam Maguire, with the Tribesmen’s last All-Ireland Senior Football Championship victory coming in 2001.

If they pull it off on Sunday it’ll be a marquee year for Galway footballers, after the Minor side won the Tom Markham cup earlier this month.

The match will be broadcast live on RTÉ 2 and Sky Sports Arena, and of course many Galway fans will be catching it on the big screen at the Big Top if you can’t make it to Dublin.

The full Galway panel for the Football Final is:

Conor Gleeson (Dunmore McHales)
Liam Silke (Corofin)
Seán Kelly (Capt) (Moycullen)
Jack Glynn (Claregalway)
Dylan McHugh (Corofin)
John Daly (Mountbellew/Moylough)
Kieran Molloy (Corofin)
Paul Conroy (St James’)
Cillian McDaid (Monivea/Abbey)
Patrick Kelly (Mountbellew/Moylough)
Mathew Tierney (Oughterard)
Johnny Heaney (Killannin)
Robert Finnerty (Salthill/Knocknacarra)
Damien Comer (Annaghdown)
Shane Walsh (Kilkerrin/Clonberne)
James Keane (CLG Barna)
James Foley (Mountbellew/Moylough)
Billy Mannion (Mountbellew/Moylough)
Cathal Sweeney (Salthill/Knocknacarra)
Niall Daly (Kilconly)
Paul Kelly (Moycullen)
Owen Gallagher (Moycullen)
Finnian Ó Laoi (Spiddal)
Eoin Finnerty (Mountbellew/Moylough)
Dessie Conneely (Moycullen)
Dylan Canney (Corofin)

Extended Panel Members

Conor Campbell (Claregalway)
Séan Fitzgerald (CLG Barna)
Johnny McGrath (Caherlistrane)
Diarmaid Kilcommins (Annaghdown)
Eoghan Kelly (Moycullen)
Daniel O’Flaherty (Salthill/Knocknacarra)
Seán Mulkerrin (CLG Aran Islands)
James McLoughlin (Moycullen)
Cormac McWalter (Tuam Stars)
Conor Flaherty (Claregalway)
Tony Gill (Corofin)
Brian Mannion (Tuam Stars)
James Egan (Naomh Séamus)
Tomo Culhane (Salthill/Knocknacarra)

Prior warning notices for Ballyloughane and Grattan beaches

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July 22, 2022

Galway Daily news Swimming ban at Ballyloughane Beach due to E. Coli

Galway City Council has issued Prior Warning Notices for Ballyloughane and Grattan beaches for possible bacterial contamination.

The warning notices are being issued due to the rainfall forecasted for the coming days, and the possible use of the storm overflow.

The expected duration of the notices is from Friday to Monday, July 22 – 25.

During this time, people avoid splashing or swallowing water while at these beaches, avoid swimming if you have a wound, and to wash hands before handling food.

Further water sampling will be carried out, and an update is expected on July 27, upon the receipt of results.

Gardaí investigating stabbing in Galway City taxi

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July 22, 2022