Man (50s) hospitalised after stabbing in Galway City

By

Briain Kelly

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August 16, 2024

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Galway Daily news Man dies after car goes into the water

A man has been taken to hospital and a teen arrested after a stabbing at Renmore Barracks in Galway City last night.

Gardaí are investigating an assault which occurred at Renmore Army Barracks in Galway on Thursday, August 15.

A man in his 50s received a number of stab wounds during the incident.

He was taken to University Hospital Galway for treatment of injuries that are serious but not life-threatening.

A male teenager was restrained by members of the Defence Forces and arrested by Gardaí at the scene.

The male youth is currently detained at a Garda Station in the North Western Region.

The scene is currently preserved and a technical examination will be carried out today by the Divisional Scenes of Crime Unit.

An Garda Síochána have said that investigations are ongoing.

Galway RNLI lifeboat stations mark the next milestone in RNLI 200th anniversary scroll relay

By

Briain Kelly

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August 16, 2024

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As part of the RNLI’s ‘Connecting our Communities’ relay to mark the charity’s 200th anniversary, a scroll bearing the RNLI pledge came to the Clifden and Galway Lifeboat Stations this week.

The scroll is being passed through RNLI communities – lifeboat stations, shops and fundraising branches – around Ireland and the UK and is being signed by representatives at each location on its route.

During the visit to the Clifden Lifeboat Station the scroll was signed by Miryam Harris, Anne Marie Bennett and Frank Acton.

At the Galway Lifeboat Station,the scroll was signed by Pat Lavelle who was one of the first fundraisers and a founding member of the lifeboat station in Galway in 1995 as well as a former Lifeboat Operations Manager, along with Mike Swan the current Lifeboat Operations Manager.

The pledge reads: ‘Whoever we are, wherever we are from, we are one crew, ready to save lives. We’re powered by passion, talent and kindness, like generations of selfless lifesavers before us. This is our watch, we lead the way, valuing each other, trusting each other, depending on one another, volunteering to face the storm together. Knowing that, with courage, nothing is impossible. That is what has always driven us to save every one we can. It’s what makes every one of us a lifesaver.’

Beneath the pledge, printed in seven languages (English, Irish, Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, Ulster Scots, Manx, and Cornish), it says: ‘Signed in 2024 by representatives of the RNLI’s lifesaving communities, on behalf of all who strive to save every one.’

Frank Acton, RNLI Launch Authority who signed the scroll in Clifden said, “Over the course of seven months, the five-metre-long scroll is passing through 240 RNLI locations around Ireland and UK before finishing its journey in October at Douglas on the Isle of Man, which was home to the RNLI’s founder, Sir William Hillary.”

“By then it will carry around 700 signatures including the names of three RNLI volunteers from Clifden. The scroll will become part of the charity’s history and a significant snapshot of the charity as it stands at 200 years old and we are delighted to play our part.”

Mike Swan, Lifeboat Operations Manager with the Galway Lifeboat Station said, “The scroll has been made bespoke by RNLI craftspeople using materials of significance to the charity.”

“The wooden handle has been made by a carpenter from the RNLI’s All-weather Lifeboat Centre in Poole (where the charity builds and maintains its all-weather lifeboats), using wood from an old flagpole from Ramsey lifeboat station on the Isle of Man.”

“Apprentices from the RNLI’s Inshore Lifeboat Centre on the Isle of Wight have made the protective fibreglass casing and set the scroll spindles and accessories into the case.”

“After the Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey to mark the charity’s official 200th anniversary on 4 March, the scroll began its relay journey around the lifeboat stations.”

“It is very special that the Galway lifeboat crew past and present are represented on this piece of RNLI history. When the seven-month-long journey is complete, the scroll will be displayed in the RNLI College in Poole where all of our lifeboat crew are trained.”

Founded on 4 March 1824 following an appeal from Sir William Hillary, who lived on the Isle of Man and witnessed many shipwrecks, the RNLI has been saving lives at sea for 200 years. Since the charity was founded, the charity’s lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

Further water restrictions in Dunmore

By

Briain Kelly

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August 15, 2024

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Galway Daily news Moycullen water outage

Uisce Eireann has issued notice today that further water restrictions are being imposed in Dunmore which may cause outages until Friday.

Customers in Dunmore and the surrounding areas may experience further intermittent disruption to their water supply over the next 24 hours.

Due to mechanical failures at the Dunmore (Gortgarrow Springs) Water Treatment Plant, some areas of the supply may experience water outages over the next 24 hours.

This may impact on customers in in Dunmore, Garrafrauns and Clonberne, including the Boyounagh Ballyedmund Group Water Scheme and the Knocmascahill Group Water Scheme.

Restrictions will be in place from lunchtime today (Thursday, 15 August) until tomorrow morning (Friday, 16 August) in order to allow reservoir levels to fully recover.

Uisce Éireann are asking customers in the area to conserve water, where possible. Simple water conservation actions can have a significant impact on driving down demand on the supply.

Customers can conserve water by turning off the tap while brushing your teeth and shaving, which can save up to six litres of water per minute.

Keeping a jug of water in the fridge instead of running the cold tap can save 10 litres of water per day.

In the garden people can recycle water, such as water used in food preparation or washing up, for watering flowers and lawns. For more tips on how to reduce your water usage visit www.water.ie/conservation/.

National Heritage Week kicks off in Galway this weekend

By

Michael Malone

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August 14, 2024

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Galway Daily news Grant funding for exciting new exhibition at Galway City Museum

A number of free events are taking place across Galway city and county during National Heritage Week 2024, from Saturday August 17 to Sunday August 25.

Local heritage groups and organisers, families, communities and individuals in Galway have responded to this year’s theme of ‘Connections, Routes and Networks’ by organising events showcasing the best of what Galway’s local heritage has to offer.

Well over 2,000 events will take place nationwide with a full list available on the National Heritage Week website.

Coordinated by the Heritage Council, some other highlights from this year’s National Heritage Week programme in Galway also include:

Digital Mapping of Galway’s Graveyards, Williamstown Parish Hall (17 August, 1pm to 3pm) – Discover how technology is being used to preserve and document these important cultural sites. Learn about the process of creating digital maps, the significance of this work for genealogy and hear about the exciting discoveries made through this project.

Pre-human Ireland, the Court House at Oughterard (17 August, 8pm to 10pm) –Archaeologist Bill Daly will offer fascinating insights into the island of Ireland before the arrival of mankind. A selection of new and relevant replica archaeological material will also be on display during the presentation.

Old Irish Customs of Lughnasa, Galway City Museum (17 August, 2pm to 3pm) – The ancient festival of Lughnasa was of great importance to our farming ancestors as it marked the start of the harvest season. This illustrated talk will discuss its significance as well as some of the old rituals and superstitions associated with the festival.

Cycle Space – Galway’s Places & Faces by Bike, starting at the Spanish Arch (18 August, 3pm to 5pm, and 21 August 7pm to 9pm) – From past industrial prowess, the rise of Galway as a student town, to social changes in the Claddagh, the evolution of Galway is borne out in the architecture and structures of the city.

Join Michael Scott, Galway City Council’s Architectural Conservation Officer, for a cycle through Galway City’s past and present.

Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, Virginia Teehan, said: “Browsing through the over 2,000 events taking place during National Heritage Week this year gives a sense of the shear variety and colour of our nation’s heritage – they cover nature, culture, music, traditions, folklore, writing, history, architecture, archaeology, archives and so much more.”

“It is also a sign of the strength of the sector, the depth of knowledge people have and their generosity in sharing that knowledge. Many of the events are volunteer led, organised by dedicated people who seek no recompense or adulation.”

“We must never take these people for granted and I will continue unapologetically to mention them at every opportunity, such is their importance not only to National Hertiage Week, but to the preservation of Irish heritage in general.”

Two themed days will take place during National Heritage Week. On Saturday 24 August, Wild Child Day encourages children and families to explore the heritage in their locality.

On Sunday, 25 August, the Heritage Council and the Local Authority Waters Programme invite people to explore National Heritage Week projects that celebrate water and our connections with it.

A sneak peek into the 28th Baboró International Arts Festival for Children

By

Briain Kelly

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August 13, 2024

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Galway Daily arts A sneak peek into the 28th Baboró International Arts Festival for Children — Autumn festival promises to awaken creativity and spark joy across Galway

Get ready for an unforgettable 10 days of creativity and imagination as Baboró International Arts Festival for Children returns to Galway this October.

The 2024 festival, running from October 11th to 20th, promises to deliver a captivating lineup of performances and events, featuring both Irish and international artists dedicated to young audiences. This year’s festival will be officially launched in Galway on September 3rd.

Expect fantastic shows for schools and families from Ireland,Scotland, England, Italy, Sweden, The Netherlands and Belgium feature in the programme – including two from Flanders, an area of Belgium making exceptional work for children.

An expanded programme for children with additional needs includes specialist performances for children with profound and multiple learning disabilities as well as Irish Sign Language interpreted, captioned and audio described events.

Some of this year’s festival highlights include a madcap musical, thought provoking comedy and an exhibition of eye-catching tapestries. Here we take a sneak peek at:

Bully Bully (4+ YRS | Theatre | An Taibhdhearc | The Netherlands): A madcap musical exploring the humorous similarities between toddlers and world leaders.

This bold and engaging production by Maas Theater en Dans is a must-see for its catchy songs and heartwarming resolution.

Grown Ups (5+ YRS | Theatre | Black Box Theatre | Belgium): An absurd tragic horror comedy that humorously questions what adults really do while children are at school.

Compagnie Barbarie and BRONKS deliver a thought-provoking yet hilarious portrayal of adult life from a child’s perspective.

Little Monsters (ALL AGES | Visual Art | Galway Arts Centre | Ireland): This installation of bright, bold, colourful textile tapestries and 3D shapes explores success and failure, as well as the need for approval and love in an increasingly digital world.

Using a range of techniques including tapestry, embroidery, crochet and manipulated machine knitting, local artist Laura Angell invites us into a world of symbols, omens and lucky charms that she calls on to quell the anxieties of this world that can become like Little Monsters roaming inside our heads.

Baboró International Arts Festival for Children is about enriching creative experiences and celebrating the boundless creativity and imagination of young minds.

The full programme, including workshops, adult events, and ticket information, will be available at www.baboro.ie from Tuesday 3 September.

Stay up-to-date with the latest festival news and announcements by following Baboró on social media or signing up for their newsletter on their website.

Indreabhán marks Heritage Week with seashore event at An Trá Mhór

By

Briain Kelly

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August 13, 2024

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The local community of Indreabhán in County Galway is being invited to participate in a Seashore Bio-Blitz, Scavenger Hunt, and Litter Beach Clean-Up in An Trá Mhór on Monday next, August 19.

The bilingual event is organised by Galway County Council’s Environment Section as part of National Heritage Week, which celebrates Ireland’s cultural, built, and natural heritage including County Galway’s many beaches.

Councillor Albert Dolan, Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway said, “It will be great to see people of all ages participating in the seashore Event.”

“The support that Galway County has received from Noirin Burke and Tara Noonan, Galway Atlantaquaria, National Aquarium of Ireland has been instrumental in organising this event.”

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council added, “We want to promote our pristine beaches in County Galway and create awareness of biodiversity on our seashores, as well as the importance of keeping our beaches clean and tidy, and the invaluable natural environment that can be discovered on the beach.”

Jacqueline O’Carroll, Director of Services for the Environment Section of Galway County Council commented, “Healthy beach and dune systems are important for many organisms, including rare and endangered birds and seals.”

“Maintaining nourished beaches provides important wildlife habitat areas that are threatened by erosion, litter, and climate change. Our young people need to be made aware of these factors and events like this contribute to that”.

The Seashore Bio-Blitz, Scavenger Hunt, and Litter Beach Clean-Up in An Trá Mhór takes place from 11.00am to 1.00pm on Monday next (August 19). See www.heritageweek.ie for more.

Olympic heroes welcomed home today

By

Briain Kelly

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August 12, 2024

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Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD, and Minister of State for Sport, Physical Education and the Gaeltacht, Thomas Byrne TD today welcome home the 133 athletes who competed for Ireland in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

The 64 women and 69 men competed across 14 sports, winning 7 Medals, posting personal and seasonal bests in many cases as well as progressing in their individual competitions.

Minister Martin said, “Team Ireland has made the nation so proud, our most successful team ever at an Olympic Games. Over these past few weeks, thousands of Irish supporters travelled to France to loudly cheer on the team and it was clear that our athletes greatly appreciated this support.”

“Back home in Ireland, there has also been great support for our athletes every step of the way,” he added.

“I want to congratulate everyone who has been involved in this endeavour from the athletes to the coaches, the sporting bodies, the Olympic Federation through to the Sport Ireland Institute and beyond.”

“This success has been a credit to our athletes’ dedication, and the support of their families, coaches and communities. This fantastic achievement also demonstrates the value of the continued and sustained investment into our sporting system.”

“We have invested at all levels, from the high performance system right on down to the grassroots community level and we will continue to build on that investment in the years to come, to provide our athletes with the support they deserve.”

Tips to Stay Safe When Transacting Online

By

Thomas O'Brien

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August 10, 2024

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One of the most significant advantages of living in the current age is being able to perform numerous transactions online. From purchasing groceries to paying our utility bills, modern online infrastructure allows us to do countless things without leaving the house.

However, this convenience comes at the risk of our information being intercepted and stolen by thieves and hackers. When this happens, these criminals may be able to gain access to our accounts, steal our money, or conduct illicit activities under our names.

Fortunately, reducing this risk is not only possible but also relatively easy. By following a few simple tips to stay safe when transacting online, we can ensure our information (and money) is secure and still make the most of online platforms and processes.

Use Strong Passwords

Most of us neglect the most essential step: using strong and unique passwords for all online accounts. Your password is your first line of protection, and it should be at least eight characters long and consist of letters, numbers, and special characters.

In addition, never use the same password for multiple accounts. Should hackers gain access to your password, they could easily access any other accounts that use it.

Utilise Available Security Features

Many providers offer methods to help make our accounts more secure, from banks to social media accounts. One of the most popular is two-factor authentication (2FA), which requires you to confirm any login attempt using your mobile device or a secondary method other than your password.

Enabling 2FA on your account can help thwart attempts to access your profiles and trigger security protocols on some websites when authentication fails. This will alert you that somebody is trying to sign in and let you take additional security measures.

Know What’s Happening

An easy way for criminals to steal money from your bank or e-wallet is to make small transactions. These transactions feature amounts you may not notice missing from your account but can quickly add up.

Because of this, one of the best tips for staying safe when transacting online is to ensure you know what’s happening in your accounts. Knowing who you’re receiving money from or sending it to will allow you to quickly spot suspicious transactions and take steps to block future ones.

Trust The Experienced

Although the internet is filled with thousands of online stores selling almost anything you can imagine, not all are legitimate businesses. Some are mere fronts for hackers that aim to steal your payment information while you’re trying to make a purchase.

Therefore, it is always best to stick to known and trusted retailers with a good online reputation. Reading user reviews and ratings can help you identify these, but you’ll still need to trust your instincts, as some reviews may not be entirely truthful.

Don’t Save Your Info

Despite how convenient it may be, saving your payment information on a website or in your browser is a mistake that can easily lead to problems. Storing this information effectively gives it to someone else to safeguard, taking the control out of your hands.

As an alternative to doing this, payment details can be saved inside password managers. These dedicated applications are encrypted and secure and require authentication to open and access stored info—thus offering the same convenience as stored information but with greater security.

Leverage Secure Payment Methods to Your Advantage

Online merchants commonly offer support for a wide range of payment methods. Among the most popular are Visa, Mastercard, and e-wallets like PayPal. Using the optimal one can make a difference if your information is stolen.

For example, credit cards often provide better fraud protection than regular debit cards. If a credit card is not an option, an e-wallet like PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay is a great alternative. These act as an additional layer of security by never revealing your payment details to websites directly.

Be Cautious to Unrealistic Deals

Learn to spot deals or promotions that appear too good to be true. Whether this is an online sale or an online casino offering a welcome bonus when players join, always read the terms and conditions attached to a sale or promo.

Doing this will help you spot any terms and conditions that may not be in your favour after the fact. Should you identify these, you can stop before moving any further and possibly being caught up in a contract you can’t back out of.

Be Wary of Malvertising

Malvertising refers to online adverts laced with malicious code (malware) that seeks to infiltrate your device and steal your information. These ads often look like incredible deals and have even been found on reputable sites like the New York Times, the London Stock Exchange, and Spotify.

When encountering such ads, don’t simply click on them. First, inspect the element using your browser’s developer tools and see if the link looks legitimate. If you’re unsure, it is best to search for the deal by visiting the advertiser’s website and finding it yourself.

Install Antivirus

One of the best ways to stay safe online is to have software actively trying to protect you in the background. As such, purchasing and installing a reputable antivirus agent that can do this is a great idea.

The best antivirus options include internet and browser security features that monitor your web traffic and the sites you visit. These then block access to any site that could potentially scrape your information and feed it back to somebody else.

Trust Yourself

The final way to stay secure online is to trust your instincts. While computer programs may help guide you, human intuition cannot be programmed. Therefore, should something feel amiss on the site you’re visiting or transacting with, it is best to cancel the transaction and investigate before continuing.

One woman killed and two people seriously injured in car crash

By

Briain Kelly

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August 9, 2024

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A woman in her 60s has died and six people injured, two of them seriously, following a car crash in the west of Ireland.

Gardaí attended the scene of a two vehicle collision on the N59 in Newport, County Mayo at approximately 4:30pm on Thursday.

A female passenger (60s) of one of the vehicles was seriously injured during the collision. She was pronounced deceased at the scene a short time later.

Her body has been removed from the scene to the mortuary at Mayo University Hospital where a post-mortem will take place in due course.

The two other occupants of the same vehicle, a male and female, are currently receiving medical treatment for serious injuries at Mayo University Hospital.

Four occupants of the second vehicle were also taken to Mayo University Hospital with injuries that are understood to be non-life threatening.

The N59, Newport to Mulranny road, was closed to allow forensic investigators to conduct a technical examination of the scene.

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

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

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Westport Garda Station on 098 50230, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Launch of new online Traffic Watch reporting form

By

Briain Kelly

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August 9, 2024

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Galway Daily news National Slow Down Day traffic operation after road deaths

As part of An Garda Síochána’s ongoing road safety campaign, a new Traffic Watch reporting form is now available online.

This form will replace the Traffic Watch number, which was first set up in 2001 and expanded nationwide in 2004.

Traffic Watch is a partnership approach with all road users to improve driver behaviour, reduce the number of road collisions and prevent fatalities.

Members of the public can report non-emergency traffic-related incidents using the online reporting form which will be live on the Garda webpage on the 8th of August.

In an emergency situation members of the public should always call 999/112.

These online reports are logged by Garda Staff at the Garda Information Services Centre (GISC) who then forward the report to the Superintendent in the relevant Community Engagement Area to progress.

The Superintendent will appoint a member of An Garda Síochána to investigate a Traffic Watch complaint.

The investigating member makes contact with the complainant to:

• Establish the complainant’s version of events
• Establish if there are other witnesses to the alleged incident
• Discuss the possible actions available
• Take a written statement of complaint.

Where, following the investigation, an offence is believed to be disclosed a file is submitted to the Superintendent who will decide what action, if any, is to be taken.

In all instances, the complainant should be notified of the outcome of their complaint.

Speaking about the new online reporting form, Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, Roads Policing and Community Engagement said, “Traffic Watch has been in existence for over 20 years.”

“Traffic watch has been important over the years in providing an opportunity where responsible and safe road users can report aggressive and careless drivers, empowering responsible road users to work with An Garda Síochána in enhancing road safety for all.

“The online reporting form provides an updated process through which members of the public can be report non-emergency information to An Garda Síochána. In an emergency situation road users should always contact 999/112.”

Missing teenager found safe and well

By

Briain Kelly

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August 8, 2024

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Galway Daily news missing teen found safe

A teenage boy reported missing from Galway City since earlier this week has been located safe and well.

Gardaí appealed to the public for help locating 15-year-old Thami Chisale.

He had been reported missing from his home in Galway City since the morning of Tuesday, August 6.

Gardaí have now confirmed that the teenager has been found safe and well.

An Garda Síochana thanked the public for their assistance in this matter.

Garda appeal for missing 15 year old boy

By

Briain Kelly

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August 7, 2024

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Gardaí are appealing for help locating a teenage boy missing from his home in Galway City since Tuesday.

15-year-old Thami Chisale has been missing since the morning of Tuesday, August 6.

Thami is 5’8 in height with a slim build, black hair and brown eyes.

It’s believed Thami may be in the Sligo area.

Gardaí and Thami’s family are concerned for his welfare.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Gardaí in Galway on 091 538 000 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

€3.8 million funding for Nuns Island Theatre renovations

By

Briain Kelly

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August 6, 2024

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€3.8 million in funding has been awarded to renovate Nun’s Island Theatre and to completely refurbish the vacant Church House to the rear of the site/

The project will link the two buildings, creating a new multi-purpose creative centre for the arts sector, named ‘CreativeSpace’.

CreativeSpace will offer Galway’s artistic community rehearsal and performance space and will promote the venue as the space for innovative and experimental work by emerging companies, individuals and minority communities.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Peter Keane welcomed the award, commenting, “I’m delighted to welcome this funding for Nun’s Island Theatre, which will bring a much-loved but underused city centre site into more active use as a creative centre for the people of Galway.”

“Public consultation by Galway City Council in partnership with the UrbanLab in the University of Galway identified that people wanted to see a multi-functional space, that could be used for rehearsals, studios, meetings, events and administration.”

“I’m delighted to see their feedback will come to life with this funding through the Northern and Western Regional Assembly (NWRA)”.

Nun’s Island Theatre was built circa 1835 and is a former Presbyterian Church. Attached to the rear of the Theatre is the Church House, also known as ‘The Manse’. Church House was constructed between 1855 and 1872 and originally served as a home for the church’s various ministers.

In more recent years, the site has been used as a space for the arts in Galway, hosting the Galway International Arts Festival, Babaró International Arts Festival for Children, and Galway Arts Centre.

The CreativeSpace project will promote the values and working principles of the New European Bauhaus – an initiative of the European Union – ensuring the project sustainable, aesthetically pleasing, inclusive and accessible.

Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council commented that, “The long-term aim of the CreativeSpace concept is to consolidate Galway Arts Centre’s position as a key resource for artists.”

“This will be achieved by promoting Nuns’ Island theatre as Galway’s ‘go to’ venue for emerging theatre and performing companies; by providing space at affordable rates to enable Galway’s artists to bring their projects to stage; and by nurturing amateur artists through our comprehensive youth led programme.”

The money comes under the EU Town Centre First Heritage Revival (THRIVE) scheme, which is part of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) for the Northern and Western Region.

THRIVE is co-funded by the Government of Ireland (40%) and the European Union (60%) under the Northern and Western Regional Programme 2021-2027.

Driver caught doing 105km/h along Seapoint Promenade in Galway City

By

Briain Kelly

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August 5, 2024

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A driver caught doing 105km along Seapoint Promenade in Galway City has been one of the most alarming traffic incidents during the Bank Holiday weekend.

Gardaí have been conducting a nationwide road traffic operation from Thursday through to Monday for the Bank Holiday weekend.

In that time 946 drivers have been detected speeding on our roads, with 160 of those caught in the 24 hours up to 7am Monday.

Alarmingly, one road user was detected in the Seapoint Promenade area of Co. Galway travelling 105km/h in a 50km/h zone.

In addition to this, in the past 24 hours, a driver on the North Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth, was detected driving 91km/h in a 60km/h zone, a driver on the South Ring Road in Co. Cork was detected driving 134km/h in a 100km/h zone and a driver on the M7 in Ladytown, Naas, Co. Kildare, was detected driving 147km/h in a 120km/h zone.

There have been 127 arrests for persons suspected of driving under the influence of an intoxicant, including 46 between 7am on Sunday and 7am on Monday.

Sadly, there was one further fatal road traffic collision in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number to two throughout the course of this policing operation.

115 people have died on Irish roads so far this year, an increase of 12 on 2023 figures.

Speaking this morning, Inspector Peter Gilsenan said, “While we have seen generally good levels of compliance at Garda checkpoints across the country, we have still detected people driving at unacceptable speeds and partaking in extremely dangerous driving behaviour such as drug and drink driving.”

“Whether there is a road safety operation in place or not, our message never changes – for the sake of yourselves and all road users, please slow down and drive safely. Do not use your phone when driving and never drive under the influence of an intoxicant.”

An Garda Síochána will continue to monitor and conduct checkpoints on our roads, using our technology to detect those speeding nationwide. Remember to please slow down and drive safely today and every day.

Prior Warning of possible increased bacteria levels at Ballyloughane Beach

By

Briain Kelly

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August 5, 2024

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A warning notice has been issued for Ballyloughane Beach of a possible risk of increased bacteria levels in the coming days.

Galway City Council has issued the Prior Warning Notice due to increased rainfall over the weekend and the possible activation of storm overflow.

Galway was under a status yellow weather warning for heavy rain on Sunday, and remains under a Status Orange warning on Monday morning.

The expected duration of the beach warning is from 05/08/2024 to 07/08/2024. An update will be provided on the evening of Thursday, 8/8 after water sample results are received.

For now, people at the beach are advised to avoid splashing or swallowing water and wash their hands before handling food.

People should also avoid swimming altogether with an open cut or wound, or if they are pregnant or have a weakened immune system

Higher levels of bacteria are usually short-lived and most bathers are unlikely to experience any illness.

Flooding expected as Orange Weather Warning issued for Galway

By

Briain Kelly

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August 4, 2024

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Galway Daily news Funding for Flood Mitigation works at three Galway towns

Flooding and dangerous travelling conditions are expected in Galway on Monday with a Status Orange weather warning issued by Met Eireann.

The Orange rain warning has been issued for Galway, Mayo, and Donegal, which much of the west and northwest is also under a Yellow weather warning.

“Heavy and persistent rain with strong and gusty southerly winds, especially in exposed areas,” Met Eireann has warned.

The Orange Weather Warning will come into effect at midnight tonight, and remain in place until 10am on Monday.

A Status Yellow rain warning will remain in place after this until midday on Monday.

Man killed in crash involving van and lorry

By

Briain Kelly

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August 4, 2024

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Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following a fatal traffic collision in County Sligo on Sunday, 4th August 2024.

Gardaí and emergency services responded to a collision between a van and a lorry shortly after 6am this morning on the N15 at Urlar, Drumcliffe, County Sligo.

The driver and sole occupant of the van, a male in his late 20s, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver of the lorry was taken to Sligo University Hospital for assessment. His injuries are not life-threatening.

The scene is currently preserved for examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators, and traffic diversions are in place on the N15 at Urlar, between Drumcliffe and Grange.

The local Coroner has been notified, and a post-mortem examination will be arranged.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to come forward. They are also seeking road users with camera footage, including dash-cam footage, who were traveling between Drumcliffe and Grange at the time of the collision to make it available to them.

Anyone with information can contact Sligo Garda Station at 071 9157000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Arctic researchers measure climate change impact on oceans

By

Briain Kelly

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August 4, 2024

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RV Celtic Explorer — The R/V Celtic Explorer entering St. John's harbour in Newfoundland. In St. John's 16 Canadian scientists embarked for a three week research expedition to the Labrador Sea. Credit - Len Cowley

A research team led by University of Galway is investigating whether climate change is reducing the impact that some of the tiniest organisms in the oceans have on CO2 levels in the atmosphere.

The researchers spent several weeks at sea on board the Marine Institute’s Celtic Explorer in the Labrador Sea between Canada and Greenland, to record levels of phytoplankton.

The expedition team is assessing the role of these tiny plants in carbon absorption from the atmosphere in the context of the threat of climate change on the seas from freshwater and meltwater in the Arctic regions.

Water samples and atmospheric measurements gathered by the researchers will help to assess how phytoplankton living on the sunlit ocean surface absorbs CO2 and nutrients, and in turn, produces organic carbon, some of which sinks into the deep ocean, locking in the greenhouse gas for centuries.

The outstanding question is to quantify how much carbon is exported to the deep ocean.

This process of carbon transfer is known as the Biological Carbon Pump (BCP) and it plays a critical role in global climate regulation.

Professor Brian Ward, Professor of Oceanography at University of Galway, said, “The interplay between the physics and biology of phytoplankton and their role in the carbon cycle, and how climate change is affecting this, is not well understood.”

“Our current ability to predict changes in the Biological Carbon Pump in the face of ongoing and future climate change is weak at best.”

The research expedition was funded by the Marine Institute, and led by Professor Brian Ward, School of Natural Sciences, University of Galway and involved researchers from Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia, Canada and the Ocean Frontier Institute; Memorial University Newfoundland; and the Science Foundation Ireland research centre for applied geosciences – iCRAG.

The Labrador Sea in the North Atlantic is home to the largest sustained phytoplankton bloom annually, but it is believed that rapid changes are occurring in this region, and there are very few assessments of the Biological Carbon Pump.

Current estimates suggest that the BCP removes 5-12 gigatonnes of carbon from the atmosphere per year, roughly equal to anthropogenic CO2 emissions – the environmental change caused or influenced by people, either directly or indirectly.

The research project – Biological Carbon Export in the Labrador Sea (BELAS) – used a 10m mast on the bow of the Marine Institute research vessel Celtic Explorer to directly measure how much CO2 is being transferred from the atmosphere to the ocean.

Preliminary analysis indicates that an enormous flux of CO2 transfer occurred during the research expedition, driven by the abundance of phytoplankton photosynthesising in the surface waters.

The University of Galway team also measured the turbulence in the ocean down to 100m with their unique profiling instrument, as turbulence is a critical process for controlling phytoplankton behaviour, which is just gaining recognition within the international community. This places UGAL at the cutting edge of the interaction between ocean physics and biology.

The Canadian scientists involved in the research project took water samples during the two week expedition, with the aim that their analysis will bridge the knowledge gap over the role of phytoplantkon in the carbon cycle.

Professor Ward said: “Building on the successful international research expedition in 2022, our aim is to assess the functioning of the biological carbon pump in the Labrador Sea and improve our understanding of the mechanisms behind it so that we can make better predictions about its impact in the face of climate change.

“By transferring carbon into the deeper ocean, the BCP effectively removes CO2 from the atmosphere for centuries, slowing global warming.”

“However, there is mounting evidence that climate warming is affecting the BCP, especially in higher latitudes, via increasing freshwater inputs, altered nutrient dynamics, and declines in phytoplankton growth.”

This research is very timely given the deepening interest in carbon dioxide removal (CDR), where one of the controversial methods proposed is to ‘fertilise’ the ocean to stimulate phytoplankton with the aim of removing CO2 from the atmosphere.

CDR is rapidly gaining momentum and several companies are already deploying methods to remove CO2 from the atmosphere.

According to Professor Ward, “There remains fundamental research to be carried out before we can scale up the removal of CO2 using the proposed fertilisation methods.”

“There is no doubt the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere needs to be reduced by the end of this century, but CDR methods are unlikely to offset anthropogenic CO2 emissions, which is where the main focus needs to be.”

Status Yellow weather warning for heavy rain today

By

Briain Kelly

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August 4, 2024

0

Galway Daily weather Weather warning for heavy rain in Galway tonight

Galway is due for heavy rain on Sunday, with a status yellow weather warning issued by Met Eireann from the afternoon.

The rain warning be in place for 24 hours from 1pm today until the same time on Monday afternoon.

During this time Met Eireann has warned of, “heavy rain coupled with strong and gusty southerly winds, especially in exposed areas”.

Potential impacts include localised flooding, damage to temporary structures, and motorists are warned of poor visibility and difficult travelling conditions.

Met Eireann has issued this weather warning for counties Clare, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo on the west and northwest coasts.

Bitcoin’s Breakout Inevitable: Expert Sets Price Target for August 2024

By

Thomas O'Brien

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August 4, 2024

0

Bitcoin is a decentralised digital currency that operates on a peer-to-peer network, enabling secure, transparent transactions without intermediaries.

As of 2024, Bitcoin is significantly shaping financial markets and investment strategies. Its role as a hedge against economic instability and inflation has gained traction, attracting both institutional and retail investors. Bear in mind that the Bitcoin Price Indicator on Binance can help to predict Bitcoin’s price movements.

Technological advancements, such as the Lightning Network, enhance Bitcoin’s scalability and transaction efficiency. Evolving regulatory landscapes and increasing mainstream acceptance are influencing its adoption.

Despite its volatility, Bitcoin’s growing influence highlights its potential to reshape global financial systems and investment paradigms.

Bitcoin’s market performance is marked by high volatility and rapid price fluctuations, reflecting its speculative nature and broader market dynamics.

Over the years, Bitcoin has experienced significant peaks and troughs, influenced by regulatory news, technological advancements, and macroeconomic factors.

Expert predictions play a crucial role in this context, providing insights based on technical analysis, market trends, and economic indicators. These forecasts help investors navigate the complexities of the market, potentially guiding strategic decisions and risk management.

However, given Bitcoin’s unpredictability, expert predictions should be used as one of several tools in making informed investment choices.

Factors Contributing to the Predicted Bitcoin Breakout

Many factors contribute to predictions of a Bitcoin breakout, where the cryptocurrency might experience a substantial price increase.

Firstly, macroeconomic conditions play a significant role. Economic instability or high inflation can drive investors toward Bitcoin as a hedge against traditional financial systems. As a decentralised asset, Bitcoin is often seen as a store of value during uncertain times.

Technological advancements within the Bitcoin network and broader blockchain ecosystem can spur optimism. Upgrades that improve scalability, security, or user experience can attract more users and institutional investors. For instance, developments like the Lightning Network, which aims to enhance transaction speeds and reduce fees, can drive greater adoption.

Next, regulatory developments are crucial. Positive regulatory news or increased acceptance by governments and financial institutions can bolster confidence in Bitcoin, leading to increased investment. Conversely, regulatory crackdowns can have the opposite effect.

Market sentiment and media coverage can influence Bitcoin’s price. Positive news, endorsements from influential figures, or bullish market trends can create momentum, attracting more investors.

Lastly, macro-level investment trends, such as the rise of cryptocurrency-focused funds and increasing mainstream acceptance, contribute to predictions of a potential Bitcoin breakout, making it a focal point for market watchers and investors.

The Predicted Price Target for August 2024

As of August 2024, Bitcoin’s projected price targets vary considerably among analysts, reflecting its intrinsic volatility. These predictions are shaped by a constellation of factors that include macroeconomic trends, regulatory shifts, and technological advancements.

Experts behind Bitcoin’s projected price targets include a range of financial analysts, cryptocurrency researchers, and institutional investors

Leading figures in the field include analysts from major financial firms like JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs, as well as prominent cryptocurrency research organisations such as Chainalysis and Glassnode.

Independent analysts and thought leaders in the crypto community, including figures like Anthony Pompliano and PlanB, also provide influential forecasts. Their predictions are informed by market data, technical analysis, macroeconomic trends, and regulatory developments.

These varied perspectives contribute to the wide range of projected price targets for Bitcoin.

Macroeconomic conditions are a significant driver of Bitcoin’s price predictions. For instance, high inflation rates or economic instability can push investors toward Bitcoin as a store of value, potentially boosting its price. Conversely, global economic downturns or adverse financial conditions could dampen market sentiment and exert downward pressure on Bitcoin’s value.

Regulatory developments also play a pivotal role. Positive regulatory news, such as favourable legislation or increased institutional acceptance, can enhance market confidence and drive prices upward. On the other hand, stringent regulations or government crackdowns can create uncertainty and negatively impact Bitcoin’s price.

The global regulatory landscape is continually evolving, and varying approaches to cryptocurrency regulation across different jurisdictions add another layer of complexity to price forecasting.

Technological advancements are crucial for Bitcoin’s long-term viability and price trajectory. Recent upgrades, like the Lightning Network, are designed to improve Bitcoin’s transaction speed and lower costs, potentially increasing its adoption for everyday transactions.

Such improvements can boost investor confidence and contribute to price gains. However, technological challenges or security issues could have the opposite effect.

Moreover, Bitcoin’s market performance is influenced by broader financial conditions, including interest rates and stock market trends. Changes in these areas can affect investor behaviour and sentiment towards Bitcoin.

Given these dynamic and interconnected factors, predictions for Bitcoin’s price target are inherently speculative. Analysts use various models and assumptions, but the volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market means actual outcomes can diverge significantly from forecasts.

Investors should therefore approach these predictions with caution and complement them with comprehensive analysis and other market indicators to make informed decisions.

The Inevitable Bitcoin Breakout

The predicted Bitcoin breakout in August 2024 is driven by a combination of factors. Analysts anticipate significant price movements due to increasing institutional adoption, positive macroeconomic conditions, and technological advancements like the Lightning Network.

Enhanced scalability and transaction efficiency, coupled with favourable regulatory developments and growing market sentiment, contribute to this optimistic forecast.

However, the inherent volatility of Bitcoin means predictions are speculative and subject to change based on market dynamics and unforeseen global events. Investors should approach these projections with caution, using them alongside other indicators to guide their decisions.

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Factors Contributing to the Predicted Bitcoin Breakout

The Predicted Price Target for August 2024

The Inevitable Bitcoin Breakout

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