Galway Weather: Sun and rain ahead in unsettled week

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May 8, 2022

galway daily news cosmetic medaesthetics opens in galway — Pictured: Niall McInerney, Alma McGrath and Nikki Dwyer

Ireland’s first all-encompassing plastic surgery, aesthetic medicine and wellness centre has launched its new clinic in Galway.

MedAesthetics has gone from having two rooms to ten, and now employs more than 20 people.

The cosmetic practice specialises in advanced injectable, rejuvenating laser, skincare, as well as and the most up-to-date body contouring and skin tightening, combined with wellness treatments.

All procedures are directed and performed by internationally trained and accredited plastic surgeons, physicians and Aesthetic Practitioners.

Alma McGrath, MD of MedAesthetics said that having good skin ‘should be easy’.

“Your skin is as unique as you. We tailor skin health plans for every patient giving you healthy, youthful, and glowing skin – empowering you to feel more confident,” she said.

“The MedAesthetics Blueprint or a road map is personalized to address concerns and accomplish the clients’ skin’s unique aesthetic goals. Treatment plans will include a step-by-step outline of treatments and medical grade products that are unique to each skin type.

The clinic has created a ‘selfcarecircle’ that offers a unique subscription-based membership program that allows people to access customizable, exclusive services and discounts.

“We make self-care easy; we are changing lives on the daily through connections and helping patients to enhance and highlight their beautiful features whilst still staying true to themselves and their very own structure and anatomy,” added Alma.

“We know that the aesthetic industry is ever-changing, so we are fully engaged in education and training to ensure the best for our team and clients. Applied knowledge is power and that power comes from our desire to be the best.”

To get your skin blueprint and to book a consultation check out www.medaesthetics.ie, call 091-768600 or get social across Instagram and Facebook @Medaesthetics.

Public transport fares slashed by 50% from tomorrow for young people

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May 8, 2022

galway daily news public transport costs young people — JULIEN BEHAL PHOTOGRAPHY

A 50% public transport fare reduction for young people will take effect from tomorrow, Monday.

The new half price fares apply to all subsidised public transport journeys on Dublin Bus, Iarnród Éireann, Bus Éireann, Luas, Go-Ahead Ireland and Local Link.

All adults aged 19 to 23 are eligible for the reduced prices and eligibility continues up to the day before their 24^th birthday.

For holders of a current Student Leap Card, no action is needed – they simply pay for their journey by Leap, and the reduced fare is deducted from their card in the normal way.

However, non-student young adults looking to avail of the lower fares will need to apply for a Young Adult Leap Card for use when travelling.

The facility to apply for the Card is done online and opens on Monday May 9. Once the customer has received the Young Adult Card, they can use it on all relevant public transport services.

Customers aged under 19, already benefit from the Child 16-18 Leap Card, which is valid up to day before their 19^th birthday.

Today’s fare changes for students and young adults will be accompanied by a social and digital marketing campaign.

Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan said that when he announced a permanent 50% fare reduction for young adults in Budget 2022, he really wanted to make public transport more attractive for young people.

“I also wanted to go some way to supporting young people, by making day-to-day life a little bit more affordable,” he said.

“This fare cut is unprecedented and quite radical. But I believe strongly that it’s the way we need to go if we are serious about putting low-carbon transport at the heart of our efforts to build a sustainable future and if we want to bring people, and particularly young people, with us on that journey.”

Proposal for greenway on Western Rail Corridor is “premature” says SF

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May 8, 2022

Galway Daily news Connemara Greenway takes major step forward

Galway East’s Sinn Féín representative Louis O’Hara has expressed dismay at TII’s proposal for a greenway on sections of the Western Rail Corridor.

Along with his party colleague Chris MacManus MEP, O’Hara claimed that the proposal is ‘premature’ and at odds with the Development Plans of local councils.

O’Hara said that the most sensible solution is to construct a greenway alongside the rail line.

The greenway proposals are for sections of the Athenry to Milltown and Charlestown to Collooney sections of the Western Rail Corridor.

“The benefits of reopening the Western Rail Corridor, in terms of delivering economic development and reducing emissions by enabling more people to travel sustainably, are well known,” he said.

“Developing a greenway on the railway line would ensure that the line would never again be used for rail transport. Once you open a recreational amenity for the local community it is impossible to take it back for a variety of reasons.

“It would be a poor use of the infrastructure when the most sensible solution is to construct a greenway alongside the rail line or in an alternative location. Both options can and should be considered separately or in parallel.”

The Athenry native said that in other parts of Ireland – in particular the east coast – there is both top class transport infrastructure and recreational amenities like greenways.

“All of our local politicians should demand the same for our region and not just settle for the crumbs off the table from Dublin. We are not second class citizens in the west.”

Breast Cancer Treatment in Germany

By

Angela Mc Bride

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May 7, 2022

Galway News - NUIG pioneers breast cancer treatment

Breast cancer can be diagnosed both in women and men (less than 1% of all patients). Today, the disease is no longer a sentence. If you face this problem, consider treating breast cancer in specialized German centers. Qualified German oncologists will start from the comprehensive examination and elaborate individual therapeutic scheme based on its results. Due to the vast experience, the 10-year survival rate for women with non-metastatic breast cancer reaches 84%.

Surgery for breast cancer

The overall treatment plan is always developed according to the stage of the disease. Therefore, German specialists carry out diagnostics first.

When planning the surgery, doctors decide on the necessity of lymph nodes removal. The patient receives an injection of a contrast agent into the region of the tumor. Thanks to this, the doctor determines whether the lymph nodes are affected. Sparing healthy lymph nodes reduces risks of postoperative swelling and poor functioning of the upper extremity on the affected side.

For over 30 years, organ-sparing surgeries have been successfully carried out in Germany. Such an operation is the standard surgical method for early breast cancer. With that said, there are several ways to conduct surgery. The main ones include the removal of tumor only, partial breast removal and total breast removal with the subsequent reconstruction. The removed tissues undergo histological analysis.

Radiotherapy and chemotherapy for breast cancer

Radiotherapy for breast cancer is aimed at destroying malignant cells that weren’t removed during the surgery. It prevents a recurrence of the disease and the development of metastases.

Since cancerous tissues and healthy tissues are both exposed to radiation, the total dosage of radiation is divided into small ones. There are other methods of radiotherapy that can minimize the impact on healthy tissues, an example being brachytherapy. Fortunately, healthy tissues can regenerate; cancerous tissues do not. Thus, irradiation is carried out over several weeks to cause tumor necrosis.

In turn, chemotherapy aims to kill and stop the growth of the malignant cells. Cancer cells divide faster than healthy ones, and they are more sensitive to chemotherapeutic agents.

There are different types of chemotherapeutic drugs that target different mechanisms of tumor proliferation; as a rule, they are prescribed in combination. It’s done to increase the effect of the drugs and reduce possible side effects.

Choosing a clinic for breast cancer treatment

It is best to entrust breast cancer therapy to a clinic with vast experience in this medical sphere.

In Germany, doctors admit hundreds of patients and carry out about 800 courses of chemotherapy annually. Surgeons perform at least 50 operations annually to remove breast tumors.

If a clinic is specialized, all kinds of medical care for breast cancer are available here. To maintain their certification, clinics are regularly evaluated. Currently, the leading healthcare facilities are:

University Hospital Tuebingen
University Hospital Ulm
University Hospital Frankfurt-am-Main
Charite University Hospital Berlin
University Hospital Muenster

Feel free to check information about the leading hospitals for breast cancer treatment in Germany on the Booking Health website. You can also check out the prices for treatment of breast cancer.

How to start breast cancer treatment in Germany?

Booking Health is the international medical tourism company that offers the organization of treatment at the world’s renowned clinics.

Booking Health helps you select the clinic and the best specialist, communicates with doctors and hospital administration, arranges the trip, takes care about translation of medical reports and interpreting, etc.

The choice of a medical facility is based on its qualification profile, the experience of specialists, and patient reviews. Close cooperation with leading specialists at German clinics allows Booking Health to make urgent appointments for high-tech therapy.

If you want to check prices and start your treatment in Germany, fill in the request form at Booking Health website.

Why Electric Scooters are taking over Galway & Ireland?

By

Angela Mc Bride

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May 7, 2022

Electric scooters are increasingly preferred when it comes to short-distance travel and running errands. The rise in scooter popularity is down to a micro-mobility surge, increased availability, and environmental reasons. E-scooters use less energy, charge quickly, and are fun to ride.

Electric scooters can ride down the pavement or in a bicycle lane at 25km per hour depending on the rules of the road in your area. Modern scooters are fitted with wireless connectivity and GPS trackers making life simpler.

They are easier to operate compared to bikes and fuel-based scooters. The motorized scooter is preferable for short trips both within cities and for off-road adventures.

Most importantly, the scooters are more affordable than motorbikes, or cars.

Are Electric Scooters Legal in Galway in 2022?

Yes. Electric scooters are legal in every town and city in Ireland, including Galway. The cabinet approved a regulation on electric scooters in 2021 under the Traffic and Roads Bill 2021.

You don’t need a license to use scooters in Galway, or across Ireland. You can ride your battery-powered scooter without fear once you abide by the rules of the road and respect other motorists.

You can ride one in the bicycle lane to allow pedestrians to navigate the pathways safely. It’s always good practice to check the city or town’s road regulations before riding your scooter on the pavement.

Information on regulations for e-scooter riders is due to be confirmed by the Irish government in the latter half of 2022. This follows legislation passed in 2021 for the legalisation of E-Scooter use on Irish roads.

Where to buy a scooter in Galway today?

Si Scooters Ireland is an Irish-owned store that sells electric scooters and serves all counties on the island including Galway. You can order an electric scooter online via their easy-to-use e-commerce store and have your order delivered the following working day.

The Si Scooters shop gives you full access to a range of electric scooters and quick next-day delivery service. The online shopping service is applauded by customers for being efficient and convenient. The order process is easy, cart your preferred scooter if the price is right then click okay to secure the item and finish the transaction.

Scooters Ireland stocks a variety of scooter brands and models like XIAOMI, Kugoo and OKAI, and has a reliable instant chat feature. The customer support team answers all your questions promptly and satisfactorily, morning, afternoon or evening.

What is an E-scooter exactly?

Scooters are an increasingly preferred means of transport as a cheaper alternative to public transportation and a good way to reduce car usage. Some have wireless connectivity and a corresponding app giving riders more control over their vehicle.

Cities and towns in Ireland including Galway are implementing geofencing technology to increase safety and prevent accident risks with vehicles. For example, some sensors detect riding on pavements and reduce pavement clutter.

E-scooters are classified as powered personnel transporters and can be used in public areas without the need for insurance or a driving license. They complement public transportation and are not a replacement. Scooters are ideal for short-distance travel to and from work, school or to run every day errands.

Pros and cons of electric scooters?

Electric scooters have become quite popular over the years thanks to the many benefits they offer the rider. Although motor scooters are popular and have many advantages over traditional petrol powered vehicles, they have their shortcomings too.

Pros

Easier to use; convenient option over a short distance
Riders don’t need insurance or a driver’s license to use a scooter on the road
Low emission of greenhouse gases and less noise pollution
Low operating cost as is energy-efficient
Fun to ride and easy to park
Time-saving as it’s easy to zip through traffic

Cons

Battery problems or overcharging cause unplanned stops
Scooters depreciate more quickly than traditional vehicles
Only convenient for short travel
Prone to theft
Prone to accidents when safety precautions not followed

How fast can motorized scooters go?

The average speed of motorized scooters today is 42km/h for adults. However, most electric scooters bear a top speed of 25 – 45 km/h.

There are scooter brands and models that can go faster with the fastest being 160km/h which is impressive. Those that can go at higher speeds are more expensive than other brands because they come with additional safety features.

How far can one travel?

Electric scooters have excellent range for their size. Depending on the model you choose and the cost some are only ideal for shorter distances of 25km. However other models can reach driving distances of up to 50km on a single, full charge.

The battery power dictates the distance you can travel before recharging. If this is factored in you have approximately 4 hours of travel distance which translates to about 50km.

Can my E-scooter be stolen?

Yes. Electric scooters are pricey which makes them a popular target for thieves. Also, the popularity of motorized scooters makes them an easy item to move in the black market.

Riders with new or quality scooters, should take good care of them and protect them from theft by parking in safe places or keeping watch on the item if they value its use. All good brands design their scooters to fold up easily so they can be taken indoors by the owner when not in use.

For example, store your motor scooter in the garage instead of leaving the product parked outside your home. Or if stopping in town, use a locking device of some sort. Many models come with a dedicated app for the e-scooter which means you can lock the device from your phone.

Can electric scooters go uphill?

Yes, however, it depends on the climb angle. Budget scooters have a problem climbing uphill when the angle is 18 degrees and above. However, a premium product handles the same angle and more easily.

Other determining factors are your weight, motor, and battery power. Battery power and motor dictate the performance of your scooter. You need a powerful battery and motor for a steep climb. Moreover, you need at least 250 watts high-torque motor for more power.

A scooter climbs fast if you weigh less as the motor does less work. Most importantly, the tires should have a firm grip and be of appropriate tire size for the uphill climb. For example, go for treaded, grooved tires at least 8.5 inches in size. Lastly, the scooter should have rear and front suspension options.

Charging: How often should I charge my scooter?

Charge your scooter battery once it is depleted. It can last anywhere between 1.5 – 6 hours depending on your usage and riding.

Always keep your scooter at 30 – 80% charge and fully charge the battery when going on a longer ride. Also, you don’t have to charge the battery after each ride or every day.

Charge the battery for 12 hours or until the charger light is solid green. Most scooter models fully charge after 5 – 8 hours.

How long will my scooter battery last?

Replace the battery after 2 – 4 years or after riding for 3000-5000 miles. That’s the battery life span of a typical motorised scooter.

If the scooter is not turning on, check the motor as it is the power source. Take it to an auto repair shop for more comprehensive maintenance. This type of problem can arise if you do stunts or because of excessive riding.

The mechanic will give you more details on the product and its condition. Besides, they have spare parts, and accessories and take care of the product warranty.

How do I make my E-scooter last longer?

The longevity of your E-scooter depends on handling and maintenance service. Don’t overcharge the battery as it spoils the seal causing it to leak which affects its condition and value.

Overcharging the battery causes overheating and permanently damages the battery. It renders the battery unusable and repair of any part is impossible.

Also, don’t attach the battery charger to the battery for more than 24 hours. Fully charge the battery, and reduce the weight it carries to make it last longer by reducing motor power consumption.

Repairs & maintenance

Here are some tips for maintaining your electric vehicle:

Always wash your scooter after use to keep dust, dirt, and mud off it to prevent damage to the electrical systems.
Do routine maintenance services to ensure that there are no underlying problems.
Regularly charge the battery as recommended to ensure longevity and improved battery life.
Store your motorized scooter in a safe place to prevent damage and theft of its parts or wheels.
Repair any issues promptly.
Don’t use the scooter beyond its maximum speed by removing the limits by customizing or modifying the firmware as it damages the motor and other parts.
Don’t carry excess loads that exceed the scooter manufacturer recommendations.

How to store it?

Keep your scooter in the garage or inside the home for safety as it takes up little space. Keep the motor scooter In a standing position leaning on something or folded down and secured.

Don’t put anything with water on top of the scooter to prevent damage. Also, you can keep it in a rack inside the garage to properly manage your space in your home and protect underlying accessories.

Are they safe to ride?

Yes, scooters are safe to ride. However, the permitted scooter riding age is 14 years and above for most manufacturers. In some places, only kids above 16 years can ride one.

The rider is safer when they wear a safety helmet. In addition, the maximum allowed speed is 25km/h on roads for these vehicles. Scooters are generally not permitted on footpaths to prevent accidents with pedestrians and those with disabilities.

Are electric scooters worth the cost?

Scooters vary in price depending on several factors like brand, model, quality and type.

The cheapest model is around 300 euros and the most expensive is a few thousand euros. They come with a warranty and have a sharp braking system for prompt braking when riding on the road.

Are these scooters worth the cost? Yes, they are worth the purchase as a sustainable form of transport and accompanying, affordable running costs.

More expensive scooters have the greatest acceleration, range, and suspension. Plus, their sturdy design is impeccable and is made using aircraft-grade materials. They also have excellent safety features that are essential when at high speed on the road.

The choice you make when buying is crucial. Choose a model that makes you safe, and gives you firm control on the road. Enjoy the ride!

Goals galore and fine football displayed in Galway City Ladies Blitz

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May 7, 2022

galway daily news ladies gaelic games blitz

Over 100 people took part in the Galway City Ladies Blitz on Monday, which saw spectators treated to a fantastic day of football with goals galore.

The inaugural Galway City Ladies Blitz was organised by Gaeil na Gaillimhe, and hosted by St Michael’s Ladies GAA at the Westside Playing Pitches and Clubhouse.

There were eight matches played throughout the day with each lasting 20 minutes.

Five adult teams competed, including two 7-aside teams from Gaeil na Gaillimhe and St. Michael’s Ladies. St. James’s Ladies team fielded one 7-aside team.

A team from Gaeil na Gaillimhe and one from St. Michael’s reached the final with St. Michael’s edging out as eventual winners.

On the day itself, there were also two Mothers and Others teams competing.

Fr. Griffin’s Éire Óg played against St. Michael’s Mothers and Others team in what was yet another fantastic competition.

Having played three matches against each other they were tied, and a penalty shoot out was required to decide the eventual winner as Fr. Griffin’s Éire Óg took home the title.

Following the successful event on Monday, the organisers said that they look forward to organising the Ladies Blitz on an annual basis.

New maternity hospital must be publicly-owned and controlled says PBP

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May 7, 2022

galway daily news national maternity hospital

Any form of religious influence at the National Maternity Hospital would see the pro-choice movement take to the streets, local People Before Profit representative Adrian Curran has said.

Curran called on the government to heed to calls regarding outstanding concerns over the future ownership of the National Maternity Hospital.

He said that any hint of religious influence over the provision of abortion and sterilisation services in the new National Maternity Hospital would result in ‘huge political backlash’.

“The movement for choice will mobilise against any deal that would see any form of curtailment of services in the National Maternity Hospital,” said Curran.

“The government and Minister for Health now need to come before the Dáil and make a statement on this matter.

“There must be absolutely no church influence on the National Maternity Hospital or any healthcare. It must be wholly publicly-owned and controlled.”

The PBP representative said that the struggle for choice is never over and the leaked draft opinion on Roe Vs Wade in the US is another example of continuous attempts to push back against the hard-fought gains that have been made.”

ATU students’ art exhibition opens in Galway city

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May 7, 2022

galway daily news art exhibition in galway city by ATU students

An art exhibition by 22 Contemporary Art students at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) opened in three locations across Galway city this week.

The exhibition, titled ‘Search Engine’, was launched by former Galway City Arts Officer James Harrold on Tuesday.

The work can now be viewed at Saolta Arts, University Hospital Galway, and Galway city library on Middle Street until 31 May.

It was also on show in ATU’s School of Design & Creative Arts until Friday evening.

The exhibition features a range of practices from painting and photography to printmaking, textiles, ceramics, sculpture and digital media, and explores many themes.

Celine Curtin, Head of Department of Creative Arts and Media, ATU, said they are delighted that the students have the opportunity to showcase their work through this dynamic and imaginative exhibition.

“This work demonstrates social awareness and their ability to critically reflect current societal issues,” said Ms Curtin.

“Some of the works were created during lockdown and isolation and reflect the impact of this situation.

“The main body of the work was created after restrictions were lifted and perhaps reflects the societal shift involved in a return to the ‘normal’.”

She said that the rapid deterioration of our biodiversity and diminishing natural resources and human responses to these are examined, and that human emotions and personal struggles are reflected in the works.

“Students had a desire to create work that viewers can relate to and that in some way impacts on and contributes to contemporary society.”

Opening times

10.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday until 31 May

Oranmore native wins renewable energy bursary worth €5,000

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May 7, 2022

galway daily news david cotter from oranmore who won energy bursary 2022

Oranmore native David Cotter has been chosen as one of the two recipients of this year’s Niamh Burke Memorial Bursary.

The annual bursary aims to support study and research in the field of renewable energy.

It awards €10,000 each year, which may be split between two recipients, to support students pursuing education in this area.

David shares the award with Aoife Stewart from Co. Louth after both impressed the judges with their commitment to working to tackle climate change.

The Oranmore man hopes to pursue his studies in Global Environmental Economics.

“It is both humbling and a privilege to be awarded this bursary in honour of Niamh Burke. The proceeds of this bursary will help me continue my studies at NUI Galway in Global Environmental Economics MSc,” he said.

“This course will enable me to make informed decisions on policies that can be used to address problems such as climate change, food security, pollution and many more.

“This programme will empower me to seek a greater understanding of the global interlinkages of environmental problems and how they differ worldwide.”

National Integration Conference to take place in Galway next week

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May 6, 2022

galway daily news immigrant council ireland

The Immigrant Council of Ireland’s National Integration Conference will take place over three days next week, with the final day taking place in NUI Galway on Thursday 13 May.

The third National Integration Conference is open to the public, free of charge and those interested in joining any conference sessions must register in advance on the Immigrant Council website.

The conference will together a range of voices, including migrant experts, activists, and allies.

Among those featured in the line-up for the Galway event, are Meath County Councillor Yemi Adenuga, and Esther Osayimwen, a Migrant Support Worker with the Galway City Partnership Bridge Project.

25-year-old teacher Victory Ike, An Post’s first black employee in the West Kola Oworu, and Manager of social enterprise Bounceback Recyling Martin Ward are also in the line-up for the event.

Held annually, the event features a range of authoritative perspectives on migration and integration, to help promote effective migrant integration and inclusion in Ireland.

Tuesday’s session will take place at the Morrison Hotel, Dublin and the Wednesday session will be fully online.

Commenting in advance of the Conference, Teresa Buczkowska, Integration Manager with the Immigrant Council of Ireland, said that the main aim of the Integration Conference is to provide a platform for migrant and refugee voices to lead the conversation on migrant and refugee inclusion in Ireland.

“It is also an important opportunity for migrants, leaders from migrant rights organisations, and people working in the diversity and inclusion space to come together and share their experiences and insights, so that we can learn from one and other, and work towards building a more diverse and inclusive society in Ireland.”

She said that it is great to be able to host the event in-person this year again, so that people have the opportunity to meet and form those important connections.

“We’re also delighted to be hosting one of the days of the Conference in Galway.

“This is a first for the Immigrant Council – but we feel it’s important that we ensure our work spans across Ireland, and reaches migrants in all corners of the country.

“Our theme for this year’s Conference is ‘coalition building’ – and it is a topic that is particularly pertinent today, in the context of diverse minority communities coming to Ireland seeking a safer and better quality of life.

“Having a unified, joined up approach across civil society organisations, key stakeholders and government is vital if refugees in Ireland are to be given access to the services and supports they need – and that includes refugees from all countries.

“When we work together, we are stronger and can reach far more people, with far greater impact. I look forward to exploring the ways in which we can work towards achieving change together, over the course of the Conference next week.”

Speaker Line-up

Speakers confirmed for the Conference include:

Roderic O’Gorman TD, Minister for Children, Disabilities, Equality and Integration;
Senator Eileen Flynn;
Ines Khai, Guadeloupean singer/songwriter;
Lucky Khambule, South African former asylum seeker and activist, and co-founder of the Movement of Asylum Seekers in Ireland;
Shamim Malekmian, Immigration reporter for the Dublin Inquirer;
Cllr Uremu Adejimni, Mayor of Longford and member of Longford County Council;
Dr. Lucy Michael, member of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission, Fingal Together;
Dr. Salome Mbugua, researcher, gender equality activist and human rights advocate, founder of AkiDwA;
Rosemary Kunene, CEO, Dignity Partnership;
Dr Suha Shakkour, Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Arts Council Ireland;
Islamiyah Saudique Kadejo, CEO of GOCOM Radio;
Cllr Yemi Adenuga, Meath County Council;
Laura McDermott, Boston Scientific;
Kola Oworu, An Post;
Victory Ike, Secondary School Teacher;
Martin Ward, Bounceback Recycling;
Megan Maria Browne Ayers, Connemara Wool.

Programme of Events

The Conference will focus on migration and integration best practices, cultural identity, local integration, and coalition building. Some of the panel discussions and key-note speeches taking place over the course of three-day Conference include:

Tuesday, 10^th May

10am – 10.50am: Keynote speech: Sister Stanislaus Kennedy, Founder, Immigrant Council of Ireland.
10.55am – 11.55am: Panel discussion on ‘Coalition Building for Equality’.
2.30pm – 3pm: In conversation: with Lucky Khambule from Movement of Asylum Seekers in Ireland (MASI) and Shamim Malekmian from Dublin Inquirer.
3pm – 4pm: Panel discussions on ‘Local Integration’.

Wednesday, 11^th May

10.15am – 10.30am: Keynote speech: Salome Mbugua, Akidwa.
10.30am – 11.30am: Panel discussion on ‘The Power of Migrant Women’.
2pm – 3pm: Panel discussion on ‘Beyond Migrant Art’.

Thursday, 12^th May

10.30am – 11.30am: Interview: Islamiyah Saudique Ayaba-Kadejo, CEO of GoCom Media, the premier ethnic minority interest and multilingual community Radio in Ireland and Cllr. Yemi Adenuga.
11.30am – 12.30pm: Panel discussion on: ‘Trailblazers – Innovative migrants who are walking the path so that others may follow’.
14.00 – 15.00: Panel discussion on: ‘Business barriers & breakthroughs’.

The full programme with details of speakers and conference sessions can be accessed here.

Changes made to Galway City Tidy Towns and Garden Competition

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May 6, 2022

galway daily news tidy towns competition garden 2022 — Overall winner 2018 School, St Pats

Galway City Council is now taking entries for this year’s Galway City Tidy Towns and Garden Competition, with some changes to previous years.

The residential areas category will now be the main focus of the competition, with residents associations in each of the three sections taking away a prize fund of €300.

The public and commercial buildings category will also be replaced by one overall winner instead of the many sub categories previously.

Speaking about the changes, Tiarnan McCusker, Environmental Awareness Officer with Galway City Council, said that they felt changes could create an even stronger competition in the years ahead.

“This year, we will be putting the focus on Residential Associations entering with an increased prize fund from €100 to €300 for the Residential Categories. The best private garden is now an institution in itself and this will not be changing.

“However, we will be removing the best lawn category and incorporating it into the best garden category.”

Entrants must be based in Galway City and can enter across categories such as ‘Best Residential Estate’, ‘Best Front Garden’, ‘Best School’, ‘Best Public and Commercial Building’ and ‘Best Community Project’.

This year judges will again be awarding marks for enhancing and promoting Biodiversity and pollinator friendly spaces.

Paper application forms will no longer be accepted and all applications must be completed electronically by visiting www.galwaycity.ie/tidy-towns-garden.

More information on the competition, including the full list of competition categories, is also available via this link.

Completed applications should be submitted no later than the closing date of 4.00pm Friday 3 June 2022.

Local distillery’s Irish Cream crowned best in the world!

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May 6, 2022

galway daily news micil distillery irish cream award

Micil Distillery’s new Connemara Irish Cream has been crowned the best on the planet at the World Liqueur Awards 2022.

The distillery’s Heritage Poitín also won Best Grain Spirit in the world in the unaged spirit category – a impressive result for their most authentic poitín recipe.

The announcement comes just months after Micil took home the award for Best Contemporary Irish Gin at the World Gin Awards.

Micil Connemara Irish Cream was launched just six months ago, and a 700ml 17% abv bottle has a recommended retail price of €29.

Commenting on the wins, Micil’s co-founder, Pádraic Ó Griallais, said that they are delighted to win these awards.

“It means a huge amount to us having our family’s poitín heritage at the core of these recipes and to be recognised by our peers in this way,” he said.

“We’ve received some tremendous feedback on Micil Irish Cream from our wholesalers, retailers and consumers since its release and it has also gained our first national listing with O’Briens Wines in Ireland.”

He said that at a time when they are growing the team with numerous new roles going live in the coming weeks, these awards give them great confidence in the future of the Micil brand.

Galway researchers make major breakthrough in study of aggressive breast cancer

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May 6, 2022

galway daily news breast cancer research nui galway researchers

Scientists at NUI Galway have made a major breakthrough in their study of aggressive breast cancer.

The researchers discovered how cells can rewire themselves to have a better chance of surviving and spreading to other sites in the body.

They found that a specific cell behaviour adapts the metabolism of triple negative breast cancer cells.

Afshin Samali, Professor of Cancer Biology at NUIG, said that the research shows that in fact this cell behaviour can be reversed through the use of specialised drugs.

The findings have been published today, Friday, in the internationally renowned Nature Communications journal.

The research focuses on cell behaviour in triple negative breast cancer, one of the most aggressive and difficult to treat forms of breast cancer.

It accounts for about 15% of all breast cancers diagnosed and is more common in younger women.

Unlike other forms of breast cancer, there are no targeted therapies available for triple negative breast cancer.

The research highlighted how fast-growing tumours often experience nutrient deprivation – meaning they lack what is required to grow and spread. However, cancer cells can rewire their metabolism – often referred to as metabolic reprogramming – to compensate for a low availability of nutrients.

The team at NUI Galway, led by Professor Afshin Samali and Professor Adrienne Gorman, demonstrated for the first time how the IRE1 stress response pathway rewires cancer cell metabolism.

It does this by altering the levels of a key enzyme in lipid metabolism, which in turn increases the resistance of triple negative breast cancer cells to low nutrient conditions that often occur in the tumour.

The research also shows how this resistance can be reversed through targeted treatment.

“The new era of precision oncology aims to tailor treatments to individual cancer patients. Here at NUI Galway, we have made a breakthrough and it is hugely exciting to identify new therapeutic target for triple negative breast cancer,” said Afshin Samali.

“Our previous research showed that inhibition of IRE1 improves the effectiveness of chemotherapy and reduces relapse of this highly aggressive form of breast cancer.

“Building on that, we can now demonstrate that this same cell pathway works to create an environment which makes it easier for these breast cancer cells to survive.

“What our research also shows is that targeting IRE1, or switching off the response mechanism of IRE1, could be particularly beneficial for the many patients whose cancer cells rely on the specific metabolic reprogramming it induces.”

Professor in Biochemistry, Adrienne Gorman, said that we are getting ever closer to understanding the intricacies of cancer.

“Identifying new therapeutic targets such as IRE1 that are part of the tumour’s support system is very significant in offering another way to combat cancer,” said Professor Gorman.

Dr Katarzyna Mnich, added that the work has uncovered a previously unknown role for IRE1 in triple negative breast cancer and it shows we need further investigation into the biology of IRE1.

“Most importantly for patients, the research also supports further development of IRE1 inhibitors as therapeutics for the treatment of triple negative breast cancer.”

Man jailed for repeatedly threatening Gardaí and possession of a knife

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May 6, 2022

Galway Daily courts Man charged in connection

A man received a seven month prison sentence for repeatedly violently threatening Gardaí, one time while in possession of a knife.

Indulis Levans (58), with an address at Tirellan Heights in Galway City was before Galway District Court for multiple incidents where he violently threatened Gardaí, including one while in possession of a knife.

The most serious incident occurred at Millennium Park by Galway Cathedral on March 20 of 2021.

Gardaí received reports from the public about a man brandishing a knife and approaching a group of youths at the park.

When Gardaí arrived they told him to drop the knife, Sgt Rogers told the court, but he instead approached them aggressively.

The court heard that he had to be physically restrained until backup arrived. While being held he made multiple threats to kill the officers.

A knife was found on his person, along with multiple bottles of spirits. Sgt Cathal Rogers, presenting for the state, told the court that Levans was very intoxicated at the time.

In another incident on May 5 of 2020, Gardaí approached a group of extremely drunk men in Eyre Square.

As they were approaching, Mr Levans went up to Garda Nigel Silke and began threatening him.

He said that he was the Garda’s boss, and threatened to give him a ‘Glasgow Kiss’ a headbutt, and shoved him, before being arrested.

At Salthill Garda Station, on February 23 of last year, Mr Levans was extremely drunk in the station’s public office shortly after 6am.

He was highly aggressive and banging on the glass, the court heard, and officers had to use pepper spray while restraining him.

Judge Mary Fahy was extremely angry that he went in a park with playground while armed with a knife. “All of this in a public park, meant specifically for children,” she said.

She said that she didn’t think Mr Levans was taking the matter seriously, describing it as “one of the most serious cases I’ve come across recently”.

“He has treated the Gardaí with utter contempt, continuously threatened them,” Judge Fahy said, and reiterated that he was in a park while armed.

Mr Gary McDonald BL, for the defence, said that his client had a serious alcohol problem.

He added that Mr Levans had instructed him that he wanted to plea, and that he was sorry.

Judge Fahy sentenced him to a total of seven months in prison for the obstruction and possession of a knife offences at Millennium Park.

He received concurrent sentences for the various public order offences of public intoxication, and threatening, abusive, or insulting behaviour.

Judge Fahy refused to suspend any portion of the prison sentence. Leave to appeal was granted on Mr Levans’ own bond of €300.

Developer appeals rejection of Athenry supermarket and housing estate

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May 6, 2022

Galway Daily news Developer appeals rejection of Athenry supermarket and housing estate

An appeal has been lodged with An Bord Pleanála against the refusal of planning permission for a supermarket and housing estate in Athenry.

Ghost Zapper Ltd, part of the Comer Group is appealing the county council’s rejection of plans for 59 houses and apartments, along with a Lidl supermarket and other commercial units.

The site of the development is to be located at the south-east end of Athenry, next to the Clarin River, and close to the protected structure Athenry House.

The residential element of this proposal would consist of 28 three and four bed houses, and 31 apartments.

The business side of the project would include one building with two commercial units, a separate café building, and a supermarket with 2,662m² of commercial floor space.

The developer also intends to demolish a derelict outbuilding of Athenry House, and refurbish the old country house as a community and heritage centre.

The county council refused planning permission last month, based on concerns about some elements of the design of the estate, flood risk, road safety, lack of parking and heritage issues with demolishing outbuildings at Athenry House.

The appeal report argues that is necessary to demolish the outbuilding and former stables in order to gain access to the site, and rejuvenate Athenry House.

As far as concerns about the design of the estate not matching the character of the area, the appeal argues that the buildings directly around the site are mostly mid-late 20th, with no “significant architectural heritage” value, and that flexibility is needed in accommodating contemporary buildings.

Alterations were also made to the design of apartment blocks 11 & 12 at the southern edge of the site, which were singled out by the council.

The developer disagrees with the council’s conclusions on the flood risk at the site, saying that the design has been chosen to ensure there is no flooding on site, or an increased risk downstream.

Regarding traffic safety concerns about the internal access road, the appeal states that its alignment is “dictated by the existing constraints of the site”, and that clear sightlines will be provided by removing a boundary wall.

Finally the appeal acknowledges that the 214 car parking spaces proposed is less that then 291 spaces required under the county development plan.

However, it argues that this includes an “excessive” requirement of 179 parking spaces for the supermarket, more than is needed.

An Bord Pleanála is due to make a ruling on this appeal by August 31 of this year.

Briain tries to charm his way to information in Ros na Rún

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May 6, 2022

Galway Daily television Briain tries to charm information out of Nuala

Briain tries to charm information out of Nuala, Tadhg looks into Sonny’s finances, and Vince wonders if he could be more than friends with Vanessa in Ros na Rún.

In another slimy move, Briain arranges a date with Nuala, but all he really cares about is trying to plumb her for information about Berni’s pregnancy.

Tadhg is delighted to hear that Sonny is in dire straits, but soon tries to rope Colm into making some enquiries about Sonny’s investments and financial affairs.

Mack, seeing how well Vince and Vanessa get on, reckons there they could be more than friends.

Vince rubbishes such a notion, before pondering if indeed there could be some truth to what Mack has said.

Caitríona, taking matters into her own hands, informs Vanessa she is no longer needed to help out in the shop. But will Caitríona regret doing this.

Catch up on all the latest in Ros na Rún on TG4 this Sunday in a double feature omnibus/

Vote for the best Connacht Rugby Player of the Year

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May 6, 2022

Galway Daily sport Vote for the best Connacht Rugby Player of the Year

Pick your favourite Connacht player from a cracker of a season in the Fan’s Player of the Year Award.

Voting is open for 2021/22 Connacht Fans’ Player of the Year Award, and will close this Sunday at 5pm.

There are five nominees for the award, which were selected by the dedicated supporters of the Connacht Clan committee.

The five up for the award are Jack Carty, Shane Delahunt, Mack Hansen, Conor Oliver and Cian Prendergast.

The winner will be announced at the 2021/22 Connacht Rugby Awards Ball taking place next week on Friday’s May 13.

The winners of the 13 other categories of awards will also be announced on that night.

The full list of wards is:

U18 Player of the Year
Women’s U18 Player of the Year
U19 Player of the Year
Academy Player of the Year
Referee of the Year
Coach of the Year
Women’s Club Player of the Year
Junior Club Player of the Year
Senior Club Player of the Year
Club of the Year
Fans Player of the Year
Lifetime Contribution to Connacht Rugby
Women’s Player of the Year
Players’ Player of the Year

Mexican restaurant in Galway is one of Ireland’s most popular

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May 6, 2022

Galway Daily food Mexican restaurant in Galway is one of Ireland's most popular — Vocho via Facebook

Galwegians clearly love their burritos, tacos, quesadilla and more, as Vocho in the city centre is one of the most popular Mexican restaurants in the country.

Deliveroo recently compiled a list of the ten most popular Mexican restaurants in Ireland, with Galway’s Vocho coming 6th on their list.

One of Galway’s newer Mexican places, this idiosyncratic restaurant on Forster Street is built from shipping containers, serving Tex-Mex style food.

Galway also has a greater than normal appetite for Avocados according to Deliveroo’s analysis.

People in Knocknacarra in Galway, and Templeogue in Dublin, purchased an average of three avocados with each order, one more than the nationwide average.

People aren’t just getting avocado with their Mexican food, but increasingly buying them with their groceries through Deliveroo.

The delivery company said that they saw a 62% increase in orders containing avocado from 2020 – 2021.

According to Deliveroo, orders containing avocado peak at 1pm, suggesting that the Irish prefer tucking into the fruit at lunchtime

Galway TD proposes new rules for unclaimed safe deposit boxes

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May 5, 2022