Celebrity chef at HYDE Bar brings in over €8k for cancer research

-

May 3, 2022

Visiting hours have been extended at Galway University Hospitals following a review of the current restrictions.

From today, people can visit those in hospital at UHG and Merlin Park from 2pm-4pm and between 6pm-8pm each day, the Saolta Group has announced.

Children still are not allowed to visit the hospitals unless it has been agreed on in advance, on compassionate grounds, with the ward/unit manager.

“We are delighted to be in a position to extend the visiting hours for visitors,” said Ms Chris Kane, General Manager at Galway University Hospitals.

“But at the same time we need to do everything we can to keep patients, visitors and staff safe and take every precaution to help prevent the introduction or spread of COVID-19.”

The hospitals have said that no more than one visitor should be by a bedside at any one time, and that visitors should continue to wear masks and sanitise their hands.

“I would like to thank the public for their ongoing co-operation in ensuring we can have access for visitors in a safe manner to protect both patients and visitors,” Chris Kane said.

Access for visitors to patients in COVID-19 wards is limited to one family member or nominated support person per day and these visits must be pre-arranged by contacting the relevant ward or unit in advance.

Plans for 25 hectare solar farm near Claregalway

By

-

May 3, 2022

Galway Daily news perovskite solar panels

Planning permission is being sought for a 25 hectare expansion of an approved solar farm between Claregalway and Athenry.

Renewable Energy Systems Ltd is seeking planning permission for a solar energy development on land at Ballymoneen/Grange East.

The additional 25 hectares of photovoltaic panels would operate together with the 140ha solar energy development at this location, for which they received approval in January of 2021.

The development would consist of solar panels mounted on ground based frames, eight inverter substations, and associated infrastructure, with CCTV and other security fencing.

The site comprises five fields bounded by dry stone walls, fences, and hedgerows, approximately 0.5km east of Cregmore Park Golf Club.

A planning report for this application states that it is expected that construction will take approximately 12 months, both for the solar farm already approved and for this extension.

This development would generate enough electricity to power 6,000 homes a year, it is claimed, providing increased energy security.

According to the planning documents “small livestock may continue to graze the site beneath and between arrays” while the solar farm is operational, keeping the land in agricultural use.

The already approved application for the main body of the solar farm said that it would have an operational lifespan of 35 years.

Galway County Council is due to make a decision on this proposed extension by May 19.

Inis Oírr water network upgrades to begin this week

By

-

May 3, 2022

Galway Daily news Inis Oírr water network upgrades to begin this week

Upgrade works on the Inis Oírr water network are due to get underway this week, to reduce the amount lost to leaks.

Irish Water and the county council are replacing approximately 1km of old water mains on the island, and replacing them with modern pipes.

The works on the local water network will also include lay new service connections to properties along the route, and connecting the public main to their supply.

Gerry O’Donnell, Leakage Reduction Programme Regional Lead with Irish Water said: “Irish Water is delighted to deliver these vital water mains replacement works on Inis Oírr”.

He added that they will “benefit the local community by driving down leakage while providing a more secure water supply for homes and businesses on the Island.”

The works will be carried out on behalf of Irish Water by Farrans Construction and are expected to be completed in July.

Irish rail submits further plans for opening up Ceannt Station

By

-

May 2, 2022

Galway Daily news Galway train service disruptions this weekend

Irish Rail is seeking approval to remove multiple internal walls at Ceannt Station, and to lower one floor, to make the station more accessible and open in design.

The public transport operator is seeking to amend plans for a massive revamp of Ceannt Station, first approved by the city council in 2014, and granted an extension in 2019.

The new works sought by Irish Rail include the partial removal of three internal walls in the northern buildings, leaving their upper portions in place.

This is meant to increase visibility and help the flow of passengers to the platforms.

“These works are essential for the station to operate successfully as they will open up the space, leaving users in no doubt where to access the platforms,” the planning documents state.

The application states that the original “cellular layout” of the station will still be evident for historical purposes.

This is because only part of the internal walls are to be removed, with the “original ceilings and plaster cornices” retained, the application states.

A study of passenger movements within the station had found that this 18th century design was meant for considerably lower traffic levels, and is not appropriate for modern use.

In addition, the floor level on the eastern side of the building is to be lowered by 180mm to bring it in line with the rest of the station.

This is to make the full station more accessible to passengers with disabilities and mobility issues.

Conservation Assessments of the work to be carried out were submitted with this planning application.

Galway City Council is due to decide whether to approve the additional renovations by June 7 of this year.

Ceannt Station revamp

Irish Rail has plans to completely redevelop Ceannt Station, with a brand new glazed entrance lobby, and the extension of the existing North East Bay platform.

Planning permission for these improvements was first granted in 2014, and extended in 2019.

At that time, Irish Rail said that it was anticipated that work would begin in February of 2022, with a view towards being completed by August 2023. But this was before the COVID pandemic.

Other functional improvements will include adding 2,336sqm of train concourse and platform space by refurbishing the existing stores and maintenance areas.

A new pedestrian entrance is to be created, and a new partially glazed roof will be installed to replace the existing roof structure.

Other internal work in the station will include the “removal of walls within the train station to provide additional ticket purchase facilities, enlarged concourse areas, new toilet facilities, new ticket inspector accommodation North Eastern side of the station.”

The existing steel ramped access at the front entrance will be removed after the new level, pedestrian entrance has been completed at the southern end of Ceannt Station and the original step arrangement of the building will be reinstated.

Multiple additional glazed entrances to the station will also be created as part of the renovation project, as well as a new pedestrian link from Eyre Square to the new southern station entrance.

Last chance for Short Film submissions to Galway Film Fleadh

By

-

May 2, 2022

Galway Daily film Last chance for Short Film submissions to Galway Film Fleadh — Photo Credit: Galway Film Fleadh.

This week is the last chance to submit you short films for the 2022 Galway Film Fleadh, returning to the streets and theatres this summer.

The 2022 Galway Film Fleadh will take place from July 5 – 10 this year, with the always exciting mix of feature and short films, as well as the film marketplace, talks, and workshops.

For short films, the festival has three Oscar qualifying categories: Best Fiction, Best Animation, and Best Documentary shorts.

The winners in each of these categories will be eligible for consideration at the Academy Awards, without requiring a theatrical run.

Winners through the years include Lenny Abrahamson, Kirsten Sheridan, Ken Wardrop, Rebecca Daly, as well as DOP’s Michael Lavelle, James Mather, Tim Fleming and many more.

The closing date for late submission applications is 5pm on Monday, May 9, with a fee of €35.

The Film Fleadh accepts all types and genre of short film under 40 minutes, as well as picture-locked rough cuts.

In addition to screenings, the Fleadh also delivers panels and networking events tailored towards short filmmakers, providing opportunities to meet with international and industry guests.

The past two years has seen the festival delivering a hybrid or fully online programme of events, but it is hoped that regular cinema going will be in place this summer.

Lough Derg RNLI rescue stricken cruiser after engine failure

By

-

May 2, 2022

Galway Daily news Lough Derg RNLI helps family on boat run aground at night — Photo: RNLI/Eleanor Hooker

The Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat once again came to the rescue of a cruiser which had suffered engine failure, and become stranded on rocks.

On Sunday afternoon, shortly before 5pm, the lifeboat was called out at the request of Valentia Coast Guard.

A 25ft cruiser with two people aboard had run aground at Ryan’s Point on the eastern shore of Lough Derg.

Coming on the stricken vessel within minutes of launching, one volunteer swam over to the cruiser, taking a tow line with him, while the lifeboat waited in safe waters.

The people on board were found to be safe and unharmed and wearing their lifejackets.

They had been motor sailing when the engine failed. Even though they dropped anchor, it dragged along the lakebed, and the boat drifted into the rocky shore.

As the yacht was not hard aground, an RNLI volunteer was able to ease the vessel into safe water and attach a tow line from the lifeboat.

The lifeboat escorted the cruiser back to Dromineer Harbour, where they arrived around 7pm that evening.

Christine O’Malley, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Lough Derg RNLI, advises “as the boating season starts in earnest, remember to have your engine serviced”.

“If you are alone on the water, tell someone your plans and what time you expect to arrive at your destination”.

New Bishop of Galway calls for “bridges not barriers”

By

-

May 2, 2022

Galway Daily news Bishop Michael Duignan pays tribute to late Martin Drennan — New Bishop of Galway Michael Duignan. Photo: Diocese of Galway, Kilmacduagh, and Kilfenora

The new Bishop of Galway Michael Duignan said that it was inevitable that there would be a “smaller faithful community” in Ireland, but that he hoped it would be a more outward reaching one.

He said that many of the traditions and institutes of the church are now often a hindrance rather than a help, and hoped for a community of the faithful that will focus on building bridges.

The new Bishop of the Diocese of Galway & Kilmacduagh, and apostolic administrator of Kilfenora, was installed in a ceremony on Sunday.

Up to 1,500 people attended the ceremony in Galway Cathedral yesterday afternoon, which was also livestreamed.

Bishop Duignan is succeeding the outgoing Bishop Brendan Kelly in the role, while also retaining his post as the Bishop of Clonfert.

Bishop Duiganan said that he was conscious of the “historic milestone” of one bishop being appointed to head these two dioceses.

He said that there is sometimes a feeling that faith and religion “might soon be a thing of the past”, adding that “Many of our parishes are struggling on so many levels to support a vibrant community.”

“Despite the great work done by generations of priests, religious, and lay people, now at times it feels like we have been out all night, without a single catch.”

“We can no longer ignore the fact that much of what the church has built up in Ireland over the last two centuries is crumbling before our eyes.”

“The more and more I see, the more and more I am convinced that our infrastructure, our systems, our pastoral practices that were beneficial in the past, now hinder rather than help the life of faith.”

He said that this is also a “threshold moment” and that it is inevitable there will be “a sense of genuine mourning” in letting go of these old institutes.

However, he struck a hopeful note in saying that the message of Easter is one of new life and hope, and called on people to rediscover the “joy and excitement” of their faith.

“It is clear that in the future we will be a smaller faithful community”, Bishop Duignan said, but added that it would be a more “faith filled, vibrant, grounded” community at the same time.

He prayed for a community that “builds bridges not barriers” and reaches out to people who find themselves in need.

He hoped for a community that is “less afraid of those who see life differently from us” and finds its place in society, while society would also, hopefully, find a “fair place” for people of faith.

River Suck chosen for long-term LIFE project

By

-

May 2, 2022

galway daily news river suck project — Pictured are Liz MacDonald (Rural Social Scheme Supervisor), Malcolm Noonan (Minister of State for Heritage), and Steve Dolan (CEO, Galway Rural Development) at the launch of the EU-funded Waters of LIFE Integrated Project at the Deebert House Hotel in Kilmallock.

Galway Rural Development has announced that it will be among the key stakeholders for an environmental project along sections of the River Suck over the next five years.

The aim of the ‘Waters of LIFE’ project is to maintain the standard of the river and to reverse any deterioration as part of the wider River Basin Management Plan.

The project will work with state agencies, local authorities, landowners, stakeholders, and local communities in six pilot catchments nationally.

Steve Dolan, GDR CEO, said that they are delighted to be involved, and that the project will shine a light on the unique aspects of the Suck.

“We’d like to thank the ‘Waters of Life’ project manager Anne Goggin, and the CEO of IRD Duhallow Maura Walsh for their guidance and dedication,” he said.

“They have been supporting our efforts thus far and it’s thanks to them that East Galway will to be part of this national project.

“Within GRD, we’ve done much groundwork already. With the help of the Community Water Officer Conor Ruane and VERI, we recently provided Water Biodiversity training through LEADER which targeted communities along our main rivers.”

Dolan said that two weeks ago, the graduation for their training teams was held at the Claregalway Hotel.

“Over the coming years, the supervisors and participants on our Rural Social Scheme and TÚS Scheme will be playing a key role on the project along sections of the River Suck with other stakeholders including Roscommon LEADER Partnership.

“And that’s just one part of our environmental efforts which has seen all our programmes involved from the SICAP education element, to the many local biodiversity and water resource projects funded by LEADER.”

NUIG rowing boats named in honour of alumni and current students

By

-

May 2, 2022

galway daily news nui galway rowing club — Pictured at NUI Galway Boat Christening Ceremony were (l-r) Cliodhna Nolan, 2020 Gold European Championship and Fiona Murtagh, 2021 Olympic Bronze Medal Tokyo. Photo: Mike Shaughnessy

NUI Galway has unveiled four new rowing boats named in honour of alumni and current student athletes who have contributed to the success and development of the team.

The alumni honoured are Chris O’Dea and the late Dr Donagh O’Donoghue – both former rowers with Coláiste Iognáid and NUI Galway Boat Club.

The students honoured with the naming are world-class medal winning athletes Cliodhna Nolan, who won gold at the 2020 European Championships, and Fiona Murtagh, who won bronze at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, President of NUI Galway, said they are delighted to recognise and honour the commitment and dedication of Donagh, Chris, Fiona and Cliodhna.

“They are all first-class ambassadors for our University and our values, not least excellence,” said Professor Ó hÓgartaigh.

“In many ways, NUI Galway’s success and achievements are made possible thanks to the support, encouragement and endeavours of our students and our alumni.”

Ciro Prisco, Head Coach of NUI Galway Rowing, said that a boat naming ceremony is a fitting opportunity to acknowledge alumni and athletes who played vital parts in making the NUI Galway Boat Club a success.

“The commitment, support and ambition of Chris O’Dea and Dr O’Donoghue played an important role in establishing a High-Performance Rowing Coach position at the University,” said Ciro.

“Their foresight has allowed for the development of a pathway for student athletes to achieve their dreams and compete at the highest levels.

“On top of that, our student athletes bring international successes while they fully embody the values or our club and stand as role models for other students and athletes.”

City meeting to mark centenary of ‘Galway Soviet’

By

-

May 2, 2022

galway daily news aras na ngael galway soviet meeting in galway city

A meeting to mark the centenary of the Galway Soviet of May 1922 will be held next Monday, 9 May at 7pm in Áras na nGael in Galway city.

The event marking the 100th anniversary of the Galway Soviet and will see NUI Galway historian Dr John Cunningham describe the events of the week, and consider them in the context of wider developments in Ireland during 1922.

The meeting will be chaired by People Before Profit Galway representative Adrian Curran.

He explained that in May 1922, in the context of an acute housing crisis, the Galway Town Tenants’ League embarked on a series of protests that were reported in the local press under the heading ‘The Soviet at Galway’.

He said that the objective of the protests was to put pressure on the Provisional Government and on the Urban Council to build more local authority houses and to place a moratorium on evictions.

“In the course of the week, the Tenants’ League removed the statue of Lord Dunkellin from the Square on the grounds that it was a symbol of landlordism, occupied the council chamber in the Town Hall, held elections for a Workers’ Council and magistrates, and placed homeless families in a number of vacant properties,” said Mr Curran.

“It all took place in an atmosphere of great excitement, sustained by radical speeches at many outdoor public meetings and by rousing performances from marching bands.”

The PBP rep said that the Galway episode was one of dozens of Soviets declared by trade unions and community organisations in the period between the Treaty and the Civil War.

“Those involved were concerned that the revolution was not bringing about a transformation in social relations, that the position of the working class people would be no better under the Free State than it was under the British. All are invited to this meeting to hear more on these important events.”

Irish Water rules out Tuam as potential sludge hub for Connacht

By

-

May 2, 2022

Galway Daily news Calls for upgrades to Tuam roundabouts

A decision taken by Irish Water to rule out Tuam as the regional sludge hub for Connacht has been welcomed by East Galway TD Seán Canney.

Deputy Canney said that he has campaigned ‘long and hard’ to ensure Tuam is not the regional centre for sludge disposal in the West.

He said that both Tuam and Sligo were identified by Irish Water as potential sites for the sludge hub.

“I now understand that Irish Water are no longer considering Tuam following intensive investigation,” said the Independent Galway TD.

“This has been communicated by Galway County Council. Tuam is progressing and is seeing major investment in both public works and private sector investment and this positive attitude will continue into the future.”

Orchestral extravaganza for Galway’s CELLISSIMO Concerto Gala

By

-

May 1, 2022

Orchestral extravaganza for Galway's CELLISSIMO Concerto Gala — RTÉ Concert Orchestra

Three cello concertos will be rolled into one staggering concert later this month, with Music for Galway’s CELLISSIMO Concerto Gala.

A legacy event of Galway 2020, CELLISSIMO will see the RTÉ Concert Orchestra conducted by David Brophy in concert with three international cello soloists, performing three very different works.

“We could not be more excited about this concert,” says Finghin Collins, Artistic Director of CELLISSIMO.

“Ever since witnessing the premiere of Julia Wolfe’s Wind in My Hair in October 2018, we have been eagerly awaiting this moment.”

“What a treat to have Leisureland finally come alive to the sound of the cello and orchestra,” Finghin enthused.

“We are preparing for CELLISSIMO 2024 and this will give Galway audiences the chance to hear the magic of this instrument in its full glory.”

The concert will take place at Leisureland in Salthill on Wednesday, May 11 at 8pm, with tickets available online from Music for Galway.

Naomi Berrill – in bar with cello. Photo Credit: Stefano Casati

Kicking off the night before the main event will be Galway native Naomi Berrill, returning from her home in Florence for a one-of-a-kind-performance.

She will be giving a breathtaking performance of a further Music for Galway CELLISSIMO commission, Bill Whelan’s Fragments for solo cello and voice.

The RTÉ Concert Orchestra will then perform with the three cello soloists for the three concerto bonanza, two of which were specially co-commissioned by MfG with the Cello Biennale Amsterdam.

The first, Julia Wolfe’s Wind in my Hair, received its premiere at the CBA 2018, and will be getting its second ever second performance as part of CELLISSIMO.

Koranyi Jakob. Photo Credit: Anna-Lena Ahlström

Swedish star cellist Jakob Koranyi, an avid campaigner for the environment, is travelling green from Sweden to Galway in order to perform this piece.

Gerald Barry’s Cello Concerto receives its world premiere at this concert featuring Galway’s own Adrian Mantu.

BBC Young Musician Competition winner Laura van der Heijden finishes off this remarkable concert with the Elgar Cello Concerto, a favourite in the repertoire.

Laura Van Der Heijden. Photo Credit: Stephane Crayton

For those interested in the background of the two new works, a link to a video recording of a conversation between the composers led by MfG artistic director Finghin Collins will be sent on the day before the concert.

“This evening is going to be a treat for anyone who enjoys cello and orchestral music,” says Anna Lardi, Festival Director of CELLISSIMO.

“Though the iconic Elgar Cello Concerto is famously associated with Jaqueline du Pré, Laura has made this most beautiful and noble work her own in many performances in Europe and further afield”.

“And it will be exciting to hear her take of this with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and David Brophy here in Galway.”

CELLISSIMO is an eight-day International Cello Festival that celebrates “this fabulously versatile instrument with its extensive range, noble sound and curvaceous body!” – as artistic director Finghin Collins puts it

The festival features both local and international artists, and takes place against the breath-taking backdrop of the region that is Galway City and County.

The idea for CELLISSIMO was developed by Finghin Collins and festival director Anna Lardi as Music for Galway’s (MfG) major signature event to contribute to Galway 2020.

Galway name U20 hurling side for Leinster Semi-Final

By

-

May 1, 2022

Galway Daily sport County senior hurling final replay - All you need to know

Galway GAA have named the lineup of the U20 team that will play in the Leinster Hurling semi-final on Monday.

The Galway U20 hurlers will face Kilkenny at O’Connor Park in Tullamore this Monday, May 2 at 4pm.

This comes a day after the same senior hurling sides are to meet in Pease Stadium this afternoon.

The semi-final is the first game of the U20 Championship for the Galway side, playing the winner of the Kilkenny v Wexford quarter-final.

Dublin is also joining the competition at this stage, as they take on Wexford on Monday also.

The full Galway U20 for Monday’s game is:

Darragh Walsh (Turloughmore)
Adam Nolan (Kilnadeema-Leitrim)
Eoin Lawless (Athenry)
Michael Walsh (Ardrahan)
Seán O’Hanlon (Turloughmore)
Ian McGlynn (Kilconieron)
John Cooney (Sarsfields)
Liam Leen (Clarinbridge)
Alex Conaire (Sarsfields)
Diarmuid Hanniffy (Oranmore-Maree)
Greg Thomas (Castlegar)
Declan McLoughlin (Portumna)
Kieran Hanrahan (Loughrea)
Liam Collins (Cappataggle)
Seánie McDonagh (Skehana-Mountbellew-Moylough)
Michael Egan (Cappataggle)
Christy Brennan (Clarinbridge)
Patrick Burke (Oranmore-Maree)
Tiernan Leen (Clarinbridge)
Diarmuid Davoren (Moycullen)
Reuben Davitt (Oranmore-Maree)
Colm Molloy (Kilnadeema-Leitrim)
Colm Cunningham (Moycullen)
Shane Morgan (Loughrea)

Disruptions to Salthill bus services due to Galway v Kilkenny

By

-

May 1, 2022

Galway Daily news Disruptions to Salthill bus services due to Galway v Kilkenny

Some bus services operating in the Salthill area will be disrupted today due to the Galway v Kilkenny match on at Pearse Stadium.

Bus Eireann have advised of multiple alterations to the Route 401 service Dr Mannix Road – Parkmore Industrial Estate from 12pm to 6pm today.

The following changes will result from the expected high traffic.

All services operating from Parkmore to Salthill via Eyre Square will terminate opposite Galway Bay Seaview Apartments.
All services operating from Salthill to Parkmore via Eyre Square will commence at Galway Bay Seaview Apartments.
Dalysfort Rd, Dr Mannix Rd, Threadneedle Rd, and Salthill Promenade (from Blackrock to Leisureland) will not be served during this time as a result.

Hurling Match Parking

Galway and Kilkenny are playing in Round 3 of the Leinster Senior Hurling Championship today, with the match starting at 2pm.

Large crowds are expected for the match today, and the now sold out Tribes on the Prom family fun day around it.

For people coming to the match, additional car parking will be available at St Enda’s School, Dr Mannix Road; and St Enda’s secondary school, Threadneedle Road.

Supporters are asked to arrive early in order to avoid a jam and find legal parking.

Traffic management for two days of R353 roadworks

By

-

May 1, 2022

Galway Daily news Traffic disruption from roadworks

Traffic management measures will be in place for two days of roadworks at Derrybrien next week.

Galway County Council is carrying out resurfacing overlay works on the R353 at Derrybrien.

The works are scheduled to take place next Tuesday & Wednesday, May 3-4.

In order to facilitate these roadworks, a Stop & Go system will be in place to manage traffic from 7:30am to 7pm each day.

As a consequence, users of this road are requested to expect delays and as such should allow additional time for their journeys.

Community and Business centre opens on Inis Meáin

By

-

May 1, 2022

Galway Daily business Community and Business centre opens on Inis Meáin — Photo via Jack Chambers/Twitter

Inis Meáin saw the opening of its new Community Centre and business innovation hub this week.

Minister of State for the Gaeltacht Jack Chambers opened the new community centre and gteic hub at Carcair na Leacht on the island yesterday.

The gteic – Digital Network of the Gaeltacht – is a serious of innovation hubs by Údarás na Gaeltachta meant to encourage the development of modern businesses, and make regional areas more viable to live in.

The provide facilities and workspaces with high speed internet access for remote workers to return to the Gaeltacht.

“Comhlacht Forbartha Inis Meáin has accomplished a significant feat in bringing this wonderful and beautiful facility to completion,” Minister Chambers said. “I congratulate them on their great vision, planning and diligence.”

“All of these efforts have resulted in the provision of a high quality community centre for the people of Inis Meáin which will support the promotion of business as well as the preservation of the Irish language.”

The Community Centre cost over €550,000 to build, of which €517,000 was funded by the Department.

Gteic @ Inis Meáin is one of 10 digital hubs being developed by Údarás na Gaeltachta in the Galway Gaeltacht.

Minister Chambers said that it will provide opportunities for local entrepreneurs, while also allowing people to return to the island.

Minister visits under construction Spiddal wastewater treatment plant

By

-

April 30, 2022

Galway Daily news wastewater treatment plant

The Minister for Housing visited Spiddal yesterday to see the progress on the delivery of the new wastewater treatment plant in the village.

Work began last year on the new WWTP, which is expected to be completed in 2023.

The €4 million project aims to end the discharge of more than 600 wheelie bins worth of raw sewage into Galway Bay each day.

When completed, the new treatment plant will be able to cater for a population of up to 1,000 people in the area.

Minister Darragh O’Brien described the project as “pivotal” to protecting the environment, and supporting the future growth of Spiddal.

“The provision of a reliable wastewater service, in a manner that protects the natural environment, is essential to the economic and social development of this area.”

“I would like to thank those involved in progressing this project and I would like to wish the project team well as they continue to work together to deliver this much needed wastewater project.”

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr Peter Keaveney said that the new WWTP will enhance the tourism opportunities for this part of the county.

“Stopping the discharge of untreated wastewater to Galway Bay has long been a goal of Galway County Council, and we can now look forward to all the benefits of a cleaner environment.”

Spiddal was one of 13 locations nationwide awarded contracts aimed at ending the discharge of raw sewage last year, with two more approved so far this year.

The new wastewater treatment plant will also involve a new below ground pump station, new sewer pipelines to divert untreated wastewater to the pumping station and onto the WWTP, along with reusing the existing outfall pipes.

Patrick Greene of Irish Water thanked Udarás na Gaeltachta, Spiddal Craft and Design Studios, Danu Media, Stiuideo Cuan Teo and Scoil Einne for their support in the delivery of this project.

What are Branded Slot Machines?

By

Thomas O'Brien

-

April 30, 2022

Branded slot machines have been part of the land-based casino market for decades, so it’s not surprising that these games have now found their way into the libraries of the major online casinos.

A branded slot machine is simply any game that has been licensed from a third-party; it could be a movie, it could be a band, or it could be a book. Everything is fair game in the world of casinos and licensing.

These games have always been popular with players – who wouldn’t want to play a game based on their favourite book, musician, or film?

At the same time, some branded games come with a caveat attached – just as brand name Coca Cola is priced higher than the supermarkets own brand, some branded games have been criticised for having a lower RTP percentage than original games offered by the same casinos.

On the bright side, not all branded slots have this issue; browse the slots library at 32Red best casino online and you will find dozens of games with recognizable brands attached to them without any obvious hit to the payout percentage.

Where branded slots do have a slightly lower RTP, there are many players who feel this is a price worth paying for the chance to spin their favourite machine.

Movie-themed Online Slots

Films have proven to be an obvious source of inspiration over the last few decades, inspiring countless toys, video games, and other consumer products.

Microgaming was one of the first developers to exploit this almost infinite source of new ideas but was quickly followed by other software houses such as NetEnt or Playtech.

On the downside, movie licences will often have a limited time period attached to them – there are many online slots which were available in the past but have been taken down in later years as the licensing deals which led to their creation have expired.

Examples of this include Microgaming’s “The Dark Knight”, a batman-themed slot machine, and the entirety of Playtech’s Marvel superhero-themed slot library.

If your favourite movie-based slot disappears from your regular online casino it may be worth doing a little research via Google – in many cases decommissioned games are replaced with new ones that have a fresh set of graphics and symbols but an identical paytable and payout structure. It’s worth a look!

Musically-themed Online Slots

Music has yet to prove as popular as the movies as far as online slot licensing deals are concerned, but it is far from inconceivable to imagine a time when bands and musicians will begin to put their name to these games en masse.

Things looked as if they were heading in that direction a few years ago when NetEnt published several Rock and Roll themed games including Motorhead, Guns N Roses, and Jimi Hendrix, but the musician-based genre of online slots has yet to see another similar burst of activity since then.

There have been countless Elvis-themed slots over the last decade for both land-based and online casinos.

When considered alongside NetEnt’s Jimi Hendrix game, this creates a fascinating situation – are musicians timeless? Could musicians and bands provide inspiration for slot developers many years – or even decades – after their death?

Bally certainly seems to think so with their recent production of two Michael Jackson-themed slot machines.

Television-themed Online Slots

The modern era of streaming television has created a scenario where giants such as Amazon, Disney, and Netflix are able to invest far more into their television series than they ever could have done in the past.

Whilst doubt has been expressed recently over the long-term prospects for some streaming services, it seems likely that fixed-schedule television will continue to become less and less popular in the years to come. The only question is where will consumers choose to spend their money?

It can take just a single show to drive millions of new registrations to a television streaming service but keeping those new customers on board during the long term is the tricky part for these companies.

Streaming television companies are always going to be looking for as many ways as possible to promote their new shows, and online slot machines could prove far more effective than banner ads or other forms of widely hated online advertising.

We have already seen dozens of examples of great television-themed online slot machines such as the Game of Thrones and Battlestar Galactica games from Microgaming, but the enormous catalogues of previous content being held by many companies means there will be endless opportunities for new branding and licensing deals in the future.

Check out casinos with a minimum €10 deposit.

Livestream for ceremony installing new Bishop of Galway

By

-

April 30, 2022