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Plans approved for larger broadband tower near Rosscahill

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Galway Daily news Planning granted for new mobile telecoms mast in Headford
Photo: Steve Kazella via Wikimedia Commons

Planning permission has been granted for a larger telecoms mast in the Rosscahill area, to improve local broadband coverage.

An Bord Pleanála approved plans by Eircom Limited to take down an existing 12m wooden mast at the Eir Exchange on the N59 north of Roscahill.

In its place Eircom intends to erect a 20m high telecoms support structure, with space for antennae, dishes, and associated broadband equipment.

The total height of the structure will be 21.5m. The development will also include ground-based equipment cabinets and fencing.

The planning application stated that Imagine Broadband needs a location in this area for their services, and that the existing wooden pole in inadequate for their requirements.

It also noted that the larger structure would allow additional operators to locate broadband equipment there.

Galway County Council granted planning permission for the development last April with ten conditions attached.

This decision was appealed to An Bord Pleanála back in May. The appeal said that the existing development has been operating without planning permission since 2012.

The appeal also said that the new proposal is significantly larger and more obtrusive than the previous structure, and the development would result in a loss of residential amenity.

An Bord Pleanála upheld the council’s original decision, approving the project with five revised conditions attached.

The Bord ordered that the development must be redesigned as a “monopole or slimmer structure”, and painted dark fir green to match its surroundings.

All trees and existing stone wall boundaries on the site must be retained, and a “low intensity fixed red obstacle light” must be fitted to it.

Renewed appeal on 21st anniversary of Mayo woman’s disappearance

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Galway Daily news Renewed appeal on 21st anniversary of Mayo woman's disappearance

Gardaí investigating the murder of Mayo woman Sandra Collins are renewing their appeal for information on the 21st anniversary of her disappearance.

The last confirmed sighting of Sandra Collins was late on the night of Monday, December 4, 2000.

The then 28 year old woman was last seen at approximately 11pm at the Country Kitchen premises on George’s Street, Killala.

Gardaí say that the search for Sandra has continued over the past 21 years, and the investigation into her disappearance remains active.

Sandra Collins, who disappeared in December, 2000

“An Garda Síochána continue to liaise closely with the Collins’ family and are renewing their appeal for information and are asking the public if they have any piece of information which they feel relevant to this investigation to make contact with them.”

“Sandra would have turned 50 this month and her family and An Garda Síochána are encouraging anyone who might have information which perhaps they thought was insignificant at the time to come forward.”

Anyone with information can contact Ballina Garda Station on 096-20560, any Garda Station, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or Crimestoppers 1800 250 025.

Anyone who contacts An Garda Síochána will be treated with confidentiality, compassion and sensitivity.

Call for more visible Garda presence in Eyre Square

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Galway Daily news Call for more visible Garda presence in Eyre Square

An enhanced, and more highly visible Garda presence is needed in Eyre Square to discourage anti-social behaviour a Galway Senator has said.

Senator Ollie Crowe said in the Seanad that anti-social behaviour has increased in many cities, including Galway, since the pandemic began, asking when the Expert Forum Report on Anti-Social Behaviour will be made available.

“The square has suffered from a spate of antisocial behaviour in recent times, including a tragic incident where a young woman lost sight in one eye when a firework was let off.”

“This has become such an issue that the chief superintendent of Mill Street Garda station in Galway city has even suggested the square may have to be closed at a certain hour.”

Senator Crowe added that this would not be a solution, saying that a “tiny minority” cannot be allowed to affect the fact that Galway is largely a safe place.

He said that Eyre Square is the heart of the city, close to the train and bus stations, and often is where people form their first impression of Galway.

There have been several high profile and well publicised incidents of anti-social behaviour in Eyre Square and other areas of Galway City Centre in recent months.

A 19 year old woman was struck in the face by a firework in Eyre Square last October, receiving serious injuries. One arrest has been made in this case, with a file gone to the DPP.

In another shocking, videos were shared on social media showing a young man being chased by a group of young people on Quay Street, with one person holding two machetes.

Minister of State James Browne responded to Senator Crowe by saying that the “warm welcome” tourists from Ireland and abroad receive in Galway is renowned.

“We have to ensure our public spaces are kept open for the public and communities. That is their purpose and under no circumstances should they be lost to antisocial behaviour.”

He said that Budget 2022 contains €2 billion in funding for An Garda Síochána, which includes provision for 800 new Garda recruits, and 400 additional civilian staff.

“We have the process of civilianisation of An Garda Síochána whereby we use civilian staff to release gardaí from administrative duties back on to the front line to help ensure our communities are being kept safe.”

Senator Crowe asked if this meant that an additional 1,200 Gardaí available over the next 12 months, and if Galway could receive prioritisation as “the capital of the west”.

Minister Browne said that the deployment of Gardaí around the country is an operational matter for the the force itself to decide.

“Once gardaí are deployed to the various divisions, it is a matter for the chief superintendents whether they are deployed as community Gardaí, in high visibility situations or in other settings within An Garda Síochána as needed.”

He added that recruitment is ongoing this year, and the delivery of new civilian staff will see Gardaí released for operational matters.

“We have already seen an increase in visibility but within our communities and public areas we need to see a further increase in visibility.”

Lidl takes city supermarket plans to An Bord Pleanála

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Galway Daily news Green light for new Lidl supermarket in Moycullen

Lidl is going back to An Bord Pleanála a second time to seek approval for a new supermarket in the westside area of Galway City.

Galway City Council refused planning permission for Lidl to build a supermarket at the site of the former Arch Motors on the Seamus Quirke Road last month.

Lidl planned to demolish the former Arch Motors dealership on the Seamus Quirke Road to make way for a single storey supermarket, with another retail unit attached.

The adjoining Monaghan’s Westside Shop and Filling Station was to be left intact, and a small portion of the former Arch Motors premises there would be converted to shop use.

The city council said that the proposal goes against the specific zoning objective for the site, and noted that An Bord Pleanála had already rejected similar plans for this reason in the past.

The council’s decision is once again being appeal to the higher planning authority by Lidl.

Connacht make three changes for Leinster URC fixture

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Galway Daily rugby Connacht make three changes for Leinster fixture
Photo Credit: INPHO

Connacht have made three changes to their starting lineup for their URC inter-pro fixture against Leinster this evening.

Oisín Dowling, Eoghan Masterson and Peter Robb are starting this week, after all coming on from the bench against the Ospreys.

They will be taking their places in the  second row, blindside flanker and inside centre respectively, but the lineup will be otherwise unchanged.

In the back are wingers Mack Hansen and Alex Wootton, with Oran McNulty as full-back, while Robb is joined by Sammy Arnold in the centre.

Matthew Burke, Dave Heffernan and Finlay Bealham will make up the front row for the fifth game running, while Ultan Dillane partners Dowling in the second row.

Masterson’s inclusion means Jarrad Butler moves to number 8 while Conor Oliver completes the line-up from openside.

The replacements include Cian Prendergast and Tom Farrell who both return to the matchday 23 having recovered from injuries.

Head Coach Andy Friend said, “Last week was pleasing not just to pick up 5 points but to continue our recent level of performances, even with a substantial break in the middle.”

“The challenge for all of us now is to raise our game even more, away to one of the best sides in Europe.”

“We’ll take confidence from our win at the RDS last January, and our travelling supporters will be a big help as always. This game will tell a lot about where we are right now so we’re really looking forward to it.”

Connacht and Leinster Rugby will play at the RDS Arena on Friday, with kick-off at 7:45pm.

The full Connacht squad for the game is:

15. Oran McNulty (3)
14. Alex Wootton (23)
13. Sammy Arnold (21)
12. Peter Robb (48)
11. Mack Hansen (6)
10. Jack Carty (165) (C)
9. Kieran Marmion (192)
1. Matthew Burke (29)
2. Dave Heffernan (150)
3. Finlay Bealham (165)
4. Oisín Dowling (12)
5. Ultan Dillane (120)
6. Eoghan Masterson (114)
7. Conor Oliver (26)
8. Jarrad Butler (79)

16. Shane Delahunt (106)
17. Jordan Duggan (18)
18. Jack Aungier (19)
19. Leva Fifita (2)
20. Cian Prendergast (14)
21. Caolin Blade (136)
22. Conor Fitzgerald (40)
23. Tom Farrell (65)

Water and traffic disruptions expected in Loughrea today

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Galway daily news Traffic lights at UHG out of action until next week

Traffic and water disruptions are expected in Loughrea today due to water maintenance works taking place.

Irish Water is carrying out leak repair works on the local mains network on the Athenry Road, Loughrea today.

These works, scheduled to last from 8am to 5pm, may disrupt the water supply to homes and businesses in the town.

Traffic management will be in place and delays may be expected as the traffic lights at ‘Westbridge’ will be out of operation.

A Stop & Go system will be in place to control traffic at the junction during the works. Local and emergency access will be maintained at all times.

Ronan Daly of Irish Water said, “We understand that this type of work can be inconvenient and working in partnership with Galway County Council we will make every effort to minimise any disruption that these necessary works may cause.”

“The delivery of leak repairs and maintenance is an essential part of what we do in order to safeguard the water supply to homes and businesses and ensure a safer, more sustainable water supply now and into the future.”

It may take up to three hours after works are completed before homes affected see their full water supply restored.

Updates can be found on Irish Water’s supply and service website page.

COVID-19: 4,163 cases reported today

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Galway Daily news Galway hospitals see COVID cases double in recent weeks

There have been a further 4,163 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health today.

As of this morning there were 545 people in the country hospitalised with the disease, of whom 117 are being treated in ICUs.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tony Holohan said “The additional efforts to adhere to the public health measures we have all been taking over the last few weeks are having a positive impact.”

“We are beginning to see stabilisation in a range of key indicators of incidence of COVID-19.”

“While this progress is very welcome, the level of disease in the community is still a concern.”

He said that case numbers are stabilising at too high a level, while the ongoing prevalence of the Delta variant, and the new Omicron variant, means that the trajectory of the virus is still uncertain.

“In the last seven days 478 people with COVID-19 were admitted to hospital with 46 people admitted to ICU.”

On a positive note, the CMO said that there has been “significant reductions” in the incidence of COVID-19 among over 75s, where people have been getting their booster shots.

The COVID-19 data hub provides information on the key indicators of the disease in the community, including the status of the vaccine campaign.

Over 200 children in COPE emergency accommodation this Christmas

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Galway Daily news COPE Galway providing emergency accommodation for 200 children this Christmas

More than 200 children will be spending their Christmas in emergency accommodation provided by COPE Galway this year.

This December, the charity is supporting 73 families with 200 children and over 80 single people living in emergency accommodation.

COPE is supporting a further 41 single men and women and 13 families in transitional accommodation across the community of Galway.

Sinead Carey, Head of COPE Galway’s Homeless Service, said there is “no comparison” between having your own home, and having to stay in a cramped B&B or hotel room.

“Mums and Dads worry about children missing out on formative experiences like Christmas memories and do their best to shield their children from the anxieties around not having a home of their own.”

“But living here has an effect on nutrition, on physical activity, on schooling. During periods of Covid restrictions difficulties engaging with remote schooling have been even more pronounced.”

“There’s an immediate challenge in meeting children’s developmental goals and milestones in unsuitable settings, one which we are doing our best to address, while the search for suitable and affordable housing continues.”

This Friday, December 3 COPE Galway is holding its annual Business Sleep Out, with over 50 local business leaders to spend the night on Shop Street.

This event has raised over €1 million for the charity’s homelessness services in the past nine years.

Sleep Out founder and former COPE Galway Board member, Hannah Kiely, said that the record numbers participating show that the community has not forgotten about homelessness, even during the pandemic.

“While I’m angered by the fact that homelessness is not going away any time soon, I’ve seen first-hand how COPE Galway relies on the funds raised, making a real difference to the lives of so many individuals and families in Galway.”

“This Christmas there are 37 children who, for the second year in a row, and some for their third, are wondering if Santa will find them on Christmas Eve.”

Portiuncula Hospital has worst November on record for overcrowding

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Galway Daily news Portiuncula Hospital reports high flu circulation

Portiuncula Hospital had its worst November on record for the number of patients on trolleys last month.

Figures from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation show that there were 208 patients without a bed at Portiuncula Hospital last month.

This is the highest number seen in a November at the Ballinasloe hospital since Trolley/Ward Watch records began in 2006.

At University Hospital Galway there were 648 patients on trolleys last month, more than five times higher than the same time last year, as overcrowding rebounded when the health service reopened.

The INMO has called for the public and private healthcare systems to act as one to tackle hospital overcrowding.

“Despite calls from the HSE Chief Executive for hospitals to cancel elective procedures on November 19, we have seen relatively high numbers of people on trolleys for the month of November,” said INMO General Secretary Phíl Ní Sheaghdha.

“We need to see an increase in capacity and utilise the private hospitals. We are now at a stage where we need all of our health services including public and private to be acting as one.”

“The public service is under too much pressure to be expected to shoulder the entire burden of the pandemic. This is the time for private hospitals to step up and be fully involved with this public health emergency. The need to make profit must be secondary at this time.”

Nationwide, there was a 110 percent increase in trolley numbers in Irish hospitals in November compared with 2020.

The three worst affected were University Hospital Limerick (1,358), Letterkenny University Hospital (1,067) and Cork University Hospital (726).

Phíl Ní Sheaghdha said that nursing staff are “exhausted before winter begins” due to trolley numbers on the rise during the year, and the ongoing impact of the COVId-19 pandemic.

“We tend to forget with everything that has happened since COVID first landed on our shores that nurses were dealing with chronic overcrowding in our hospitals with over 20,000 people on trolleys in the first two months of 2020.”

“There needs to be a recognition from the HSE as the employer that the conditions nurses are currently operating are having an impact on their safety and that of the patient.”

Galway City player wins €29,345 Lotto prize

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Galway Daily news Galway Lotto player scoops €54,583 in midweek madness

A lucky person in Galway City won just under €30k in Wednesday night’s Lotto draw by matching five numbers and the bonus number.

There were 26 winners of the Match 5 + Bonus prize in Wednesday’s draw, each claiming €29,345. But, there was no winner of the €19.06 million jackpot once again.

The winning ticket in Galway was sold at Centra on Forster Street in the city. This person is advised to sign the back of their and keep them safe.

Each of the winners should make contact with the National Lottery prize claims team on 1800 666 222 or email claims@lottery.ie and arrangements will be made for them to claim their prizes.

The winning numbers from the Wednesday 1st December draw were: 01, 08, 14, 33, 38, 40 and the Bonus was 30.

The Lotto jackpot has been capped at €19.06 million since Saturday, October 2. In that time there have been 209 winners of the Match 5 + Bonus prizes.

With the boosted funds from the additional money rolling down to the next winning tier, they have shared a total of €15.8 total in prize funds.

Man grew cannabis to invest in Bitcoin

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A would-be cannabis dealer planned to take the money and invest it in bitcoin, but was caught before any of his plans got started.

Edmund O’Flaherty (47) was ordered to perform 240 hours of community service in lieu of a three year prison sentence this week.

Related: Quantum AI trading app

He had previously pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis with the intent to sell or supply it under Section 15A of the Misuse of Drugs Act last July 20.

Detective Garda Barry Nugent gave evidence that on June 6 of 2016, Gardaí searched O’Flaherty’s then address at Ballyveane, Clonbur under warrant.

He wasn’t home when they entered the premises, and Garda Nugent said that after gaining entry through a rear window, they found a grow house set up in a downstairs bedroom, complete with lamps and other paraphernalia.

In this room there were 36 cannabis plants, with a potential value of €27,200, which had already been harvested several times.

Another room had been set up to dry out just over two kilograms of harvested cannabis, which had a street value of €43,200.

A small amount of cannabis was also found in the kitchen, along with two weighing scales, and €10,000 in cash.

When interviewed by Gardaí, O’Flaherty said that this was a loan from his mother, and Garda Nugent told the court that it was not believed to be the profit of drug dealing.

O’Flaherty, who arrived home while Gardaí were still searching the house, said that he had planned to sell cannabis, but hadn’t figured out the details yet. In the meantime, the drugs kept building up in his house.

He told them that he intended to make €20,000 in profit, and then invest that in bitcoin in order to double his money, with the goal of building a house for his son.

Garda Nugent said that the state accepted that he hadn’t started dealing yet, describing him as  a person of “no means” who was living with his mother.

Defence Barrister Conal McCarty BL said that his client cooperated fully with the Gardaí, and entered a plea at the earliest opportunity.

At the time, O’Flaherty believed that cannabis would be legalised in Ireland soon, and wanted to get ahead of the game, the defence claimed.

His client has been working as a handyman, as well as helping out on the family farm. Living with his mother has brought stability to his life, the defence said.

A report from the Probation Services stated that he is at low risk of reoffending, and was deemed suitable for community service.

Mr McCarthy said that there were “ample grounds” for the judge to depart from the presumed mandatory minimum sentence of ten years.

Under Section 15A of the Misuse of Drugs Act, covering offences where the value of the drugs is €13,000 or more, there is a presumed mandatory ten year sentence, unless the judge believes there is good reason not to impose it.

Judge McCabe said that this was a “business venture” with a significant quantity of drugs. The paraphernalia found at the property could be seen as evidence that he was already dealing, he added, but the state hadn’t taken that position

“The defendant admitted that he intended to act as a drug dealer,” Judge McCabe said, but noted that he was not a person of means, and that he was satisfied he could depart from the presumed mandatory sentence.

He set the headline sentence at four and half years in prison, reduced to three years after considering the mitigating factors, and ordered O’Flaherty to do community service or face prison.

The defence asked that the court order that the money found at the house be returned. Judge McCabe noted that the state hadn’t made an application to confiscate it, but ordered the money given back “to his mother” specifically.

A nolle prosequi was entered on the other charges contained in the indictment.

Athenry to become Rail Freight hub under €500m development plan

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alway Daily news Athenry rail freight hub plans

Irish Rail has announced plans to develop a freight hub in Athenry as part of the newly published Rail Freight 2040 strategy.

The €500 million plan calls for a five-fold increase in the amount of rail freight services nationwide, to include over 100 new weekly services across the network.

Tactical Rail Freight Terminals such as Athenry, at the junction of the Galway and Limerick lines, are a significant part of that strategy.

Galway TD Ciarán Cannon said that this is an extremely positive development for Athenry which, together with plans to double track the line between it and Galway, would see the town become a major rail hub.

“A Tactical Rail Freight Terminal at Athenry will be similar to the existing facility at Ballina. It will be located near to existing industrial areas in Galway city and along the strategic industrial corridor connecting Oranmore and Athenry.

“The terminal will be scaled according to demand, increasing with growth over the longer term,” Ciarán Cannon said.

“With a rail connection to Waterford already in place, Irish Rail now proposes to redevelop the rail connections to both Foynes and Cork.”

“This will connect Athenry directly to all three ports, giving our local exporters a number of options for rail freight services, and giving our county major additional international connectivity.”

On an environmental level, the strategy estimates that it will eliminate the need for 140,000 HGV journeys annually, resulted in a reduction of 25,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions.

The full Rail Freight Strategy 2040 can be found online at Irishrail.ie/en-ie/about-us/iarnrod-eireann-services/freight

GNECB warns of advance fee loan fraud

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Galway daily news GNECB warns of advance fee loan fraud

Gardaí are warning of financial vulnerable people being targeted in loan fraud schemes that aims to scam fees from victims.

The Garda National Economic Crime Bureau has said that there is an ongoing problem with Advance Fee Fraud related to websites offering unsecured loans.

These websites are offering unsecured loans to people who have difficulty accessing loans from established financial institutions.

In these cases, what occurs is the victim identifies a website offering loans which will be processed quickly and without security.

The scammers will take steps such as providing a fake Irish address, and stating that they are regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland, in order to lure victims in.

The loan applicant will then complete an online application and will receive a call or communication within a very short time, often minutes, informing them that their application has been approved.

The scammers will advise of the amount of the loan and the monthly repayment, sometimes offering more than what was sought.

The victim will then be asked to send a small amount of money to the lender in advance of the loan amount being issued.

Different reasons will be given for this advance fee, such as a set-up fee, paying for Personal Protection Insurance, or the first repayment instalment to show that the victim has the ability to meet the payments.

The scammers will then vanish with the advance payment, without any loan ever being issued.

The warning signs of these websites include the lender asking for a payment of some kind in advance, the website offering a fast and easy way to obtain a loan online, and it being approved very quickly.

The victim may also be pressurized into making the advance payment immediately, often on the basis that the loan offer will be withdrawn if the fee is not paid.

These entities offering the loan will have a fake address, fake or otherwise incorrect post code for the address on the website and the advertised phone number will not be functioning.

The GNECB is advising members of the public to never pay money in advance before a loan is drawn down, or work with any entity not regulated by the Central Bank.

Check the official Central Bank of Ireland website at http://registers.centralbank.ie/ to see if the company is regulated to provide financial services in Ireland.

Government asked to fast track taking-in-charge of private wastewater treatment plants

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Galway Daily news Government asked to fast track taking-in-charge of private wastewater treatment plants

The government has been asked to fast track funding and legislation that will allow Irish Water to take charge of private wastewater treatment plants.

Galway TD Sean Canney said that there are over 560 housing estates with private wastewater treatment plants which Irish Water is not taking in charge.

“The onus is left with the residents of these estates to maintain the plant. It is a huge burden on residents”.

“So far the Government have allocated €3.36 million to sort 26 of the treatment plants but at that rate of progress it will take over 20 years to sort out the issues nationally”.

Deputy Canney said that it is unfair for homeowners to bear the financial burden of maintaining these plants.

“The Developer Provided Water Services Infrastructure Scheme (DPI) is the mechanism to deal with these legacy issues as they are an environmental time bomb and a burden to our citizens”.

The DPI has a 2019-2021 programme where local authorities with DPI estates in their area submit bids for funding to connect the estate to the public wastewater network, and take the private plant out of use.

Rules of Modern One-Night Stand Dating

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Many of us look for a one-night stand nearby but don’t know where to begin. That is because we are unaware of the rules and general guidelines of initiating such relationships. It is crucial to understand them to have a successful one-night stand encounter with another person.

Let’s have a look at the top five rules of modern one-night stand dating to make things clear once and for all. 

  1. Be Clear About Your Intentions 

It is crucial that you and the other person are on the same page about the one-night stand. If you think it is just a temporary thing, but the other person thinks it’s something more, it could lead to misunderstanding. That is why you must be vocal about your intentions, so there is no confusion. 

For this purpose, a whole online dating niche was created, catering to the needs of those who seek short-time encounters. For example, if your intention is to have a one-night stand nearby, you can register on a dedicated dating platform and get access to thousands of singles seeking the same, with no strings attached, no hassle, and stress. This way, your new match knows beforehand that you plan nothing more than just a brief encounter to have some fun, meaning no drama after you both go separate ways. On the other hand, if you met them the traditional way, it is crucial to clarify in person before initiating anything physical. Just remember to do it politely.

  1. Don’t Ask if You Don’t Want to Know 

It is completely alright not to know everything about the person. You don’t have to get into the details because they are just temporary. There are many things you can talk about without prying into the personal details of their life. 

So, it is best you avoid questions regarding their work-life, inner circle, or family tree. You must also resist the urge to add them on social media because you don’t want to find out something you don’t want to know. 

  1. Discuss the Boundaries 

Boundaries are healthy in one-night stands. They help us define our limits and protect us from things we don’t want. For example, you might think something is okay while intercourse, but they might construe it as assault or physical harm.  

After all, you don’t want a court case on your hands if you get violent and the other person thinks they have been assaulted. In the same way, if you have any personal boundaries, you must discuss them with the person. Be sure to ask them about theirs so you can understand the limits none of you can cross. 

  1. Everyone Should Take Care to Protect Themselves 

Protection is an important part of any sexual relationship you might have. That is because there is always the risk of STDs, pregnancy, etc. Get condoms and ensure that you use them while doing intercourse. 

Besides that, you can also ask the woman if she is taking precautions such as birth control pills. It will help you have a better idea of who is using what so you can decide accordingly. 

  1. It Can Become a Regular Thing

According to a survey, more than 66% of participants had a one-night stand experience at least once in life. So, it is natural to seek such things. But, at the same time, many surveys show that some one-timers transform into something more long-term very often.

If you both enjoy having sex with one another, it can become a regular thing; if you don’t set boundaries, of course. If you are okay with having regular sex without any attachment, you can clarify that beforehand. If you are not, you must let the other person know that you will never see them again after the one-night stand. 

Final Words 

These are the top five rules of modern one-night stand dating. For a successful one-night stand, be sure to follow these rules to establish a fruitful endeavor. Once you do, both of you will enjoy it!

Menopause clinic to open in Galway next year

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Galway Daily news Menopause clinic to open in Galway next year

Galway will be the location of one of three specialist menopause clinics around the country to be developed next year.

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said on Wednesday that clinics in Galway, Cork and Limerick will approved, funded and developed in 2022.

While the majority of menopause care will continue to be provided through GPs, these clinics are meant to provide another layer of medical care for women with complex symptoms.

The three clinics in Galway and elsewhere will follow on the opening of the first of four publicly funded menopause clinics at the National Maternity Hospital, Holles Street this year.

Funding for these four clinics was ring-fenced through the Women’s Health Fund in Budget 2022.

“As women begin to utilise this specialist service from today, the Department of Health and the Women’s Health Taskforce welcome another important step on the road to better menopause care for women in Ireland,” Minister Donnelly said.

In addition to seeing women who meet the clinical criteria for referral to the service, the clinical team will also reach out to provide advice and guidance to GPs in the community.

This week’s announcement does not specify where in Galway the coming clinic will be located.

Common Cryptocurrency Terminologies

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In the world of cryptocurrency, there are several newly-discovered terms and languages that are important to learn, especially when you are a beginner.

Compared to traditional stocks and investments, cryptocurrency is totally a different thing. Your familiarity with the stock market does not guarantee that your knowledge about cryptocurrency is accurate.

Familiarising yourself with terms, acronyms, and all the basics of this digital currency may take time, even for investors who have been in the business for a long period of time. 

As an investor or a trader, it is important to have basic knowledge and understanding before you get involved in the crypto business that is constantly evolving. A lot of crypto trading platforms offer 24/7 support from experts and are beginner-friendly such as BITCOIN LOOPHOLE.

This article will discuss the terms that enable a beginner to fully understand what cryptocurrency is and how it works. 

Cryptocurrency terms and phrases you should know. 

Altcoin. Also known as an alternative coin – it refers to a type of coin that is not Bitcoin. It is considered to be the alternative to the original cryptocurrency. As of today, there are over 10,000 altcoins that exist in the market worldwide.

Most of them are based on Bitcoin. Their functions may be the same, and others have additional features that Bitcoin does not have. Some of the most popular altcoins are Ethereum, Cardano, Tether, Litecoin, Ripple, Bitcoin Cash, and etc. 

These altcoins can be classified based on their purpose. They serve not only as a medium of exchange. They can be categorised as utility tokens or security tokens. 

Some altcoins have different ways of validating transactions, featuring different capabilities such as smart contracts, which makes financial transactions faster without intermediaries. Others may have lower price volatility. 

Bitcoin. Created in 2008 and introduced in the market in 2009, Bitcoin is considered the first-ever cryptocurrency. A person or group of people invented it under the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto.

This decentralised digital currency operates without the control of the government or any intermediaries. Bitcoin can be used as payment for purchases as well as can be exchanged into different currencies in the world. 

Block. To understand block better, see the definition of blockchain below. In every blockchain, there are groups of data, and every data is called a block. It comprises transaction records, like purchases. When a trader buys and sells coins, this transaction is recorded and compiled into a block. A number of information can be stored in a single block. It has limitations, and when reached, another block is formed. 

 

Blockchain. A technology that resides in every cryptocurrency. This allows the recording of data, information and transactions. Blockchain technology is unique and has tight security features that make it impossible to penetrate by online hackers because the technology itself does not have a central server. A peer-to-peer network is utilised, allowing every data to be stored from one computer to another, creating a chain. 

Digital Wallet. Digital wallets can be categorised into two – cold wallet and hot wallet. A hot wallet is also known as an online wallet. It can be accessed via the internet.

On the other hand, a cold wallet is a form of offline wallet that can be accessed even without internet connectivity. A cold digital wallet is considered to be more safe and secure compared to a hot wallet. You can print out the security key on paper and keep it in a safe place like a vault in a bank. This wallet also prevents you from risks like theft and hacking. The security key can also be stored on a USB drive. 

Decentralised. A term often used in cryptocurrency as one of its features. Decentralisation enables financial transactions using your bitcoin without the control of any institution, government or intermediaries.

Digital gold. This is how some users compare Bitcoin or specific cryptocurrencies. Experts say that the store of value can be compared to real gold. Bitcoin specifically is often referred to as digital gold by many. 

Exchange. A digital marketplace where cryptocurrency is being traded, sold or bought. 

Fiat money. Refers to the money that you have in your pocket or your wallet. It could be in the form of dollars, euro etc. This type of money is usually backed and regulated by the government. If the economy experiences inflation or the country itself crumbles, fiat money is also affected. 

Genesis block. The very first block of cryptocurrency mined by the creator himself or themselves, Satoshi Nakamoto. 

Hash. A common term often used in mining. It is given that in bitcoin mining, users utilise a computer or device that has computing power in order to render tokens in return. This mathematical function works by accumulating the computing and process power contributed to every network. And every computed data is called a hash.

Market Capitalisation. This refers to the total number of cryptocurrency that has been mined and currently in circulation. For instance, the market cap of Bitcoin is equivalent to $1.08 trillion. 

Mining. The process of acquiring cryptocurrency using either the central processing unit of a computer or a device called ASIC, also known as an application-specific integrated circuit. This process creates a new block and records the information into a public ledger called the blockchain.

Bitcoin miners have interconnected networks that allow the storage of data to every user worldwide. The process of mining has to do with the device that solves complicated mathematical problems or algorithms in exchange for bitcoins or tokens. 

Peer-to-peer. Two or more users are connecting, interacting and sharing data without any third party, server or intermediary. 

Proof-of-Work. A way of awarding the miners for their work or mining effort. When the work is completed, a hash block proves that it is done, then, later on, renders an award for the accomplished work. 

Satoshi Nakamoto. A name you might always encounter that is always connected with Bitcoin. Satoshi Nakamoto is a pseudonym for an individual or a group of people (no one knows) who created the first cryptocurrency, the Bitcoin. He/They remain anonymous up to this day. 

Volatile. Often referred to as instability or price fluctuation. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are known to be volatile due to the unpredictability of prices in the market. 

These terminologies and phrases may look and sound intimidating, but as you familiarise yourself with them, you will be able to fully understand their meaning, especially when these words are often used.

There are more words that you may encounter in the cryptocurrency community. You may also search online and find a hundred more terminologies that you may encounter in the future. 

Risk Note: This specific article is intended to orient a cryptocurrency beginner about some words and phrases that are commonly used in the cryptocurrency world.

Before you consider involving yourself in this business, you must know that cryptocurrency is a risky investment due to its high volatility. It is important to be able to familiarise yourself first with how cryptocurrency works. 

COVID-19: 3,793 new cases reported as one Omicron variant case confirmed

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Galway Daily news 25 percent drop in COVID cases in Galway hospitals

There have been a further 3,793 cases of COVID-19 reported in Ireland today, as the presence of the Omicron variant has been confirmed.

The Department of Health said earlier today that one case of the Omicron variant has been confirmed, which is associated with travel from one of the scheduled States.

Genetic sequencing was done on eight samples with potential markers of the variant, one of which was confirmed to be the Omicron strain.

As of this morning there were 578 people in the country hospitalised with COVID-19, of whom 117 are in the ICU.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tony Holohan said that confirmation of the presence of the Omicron variant shouldn’t change the response to current public health measures.

“The best mitigation we have against transmission of this virus, regardless of the variant, are the public health measures that we are so familiar with and more importantly, that we know will work.”

“For at least the next two weeks, if we can all make a concerted effort to reduce our contacts, then I am hopeful that we can make a real difference to incidence of disease in Ireland.”

“There is no group who should feel the public health advice does not apply to them. It is only if we act together that we can keep ourselves, our loved ones and health and social care facilities safe.”

“As we look to the month ahead, consider your choices and make the right ones. Do not go into work tomorrow if you can work from home. If you are an employer, facilitate remote working for your employees.”

The reporting of the new variant by public health officials in South Africa led to quick decisions by European states to restrict travel from multiple states in the south of the continent.

The World Health Organisation has labelled it a variant “of concern”, but information is still emerging about how serious it may be.

The COVID-19 data hub provides information on the key indicators of the disease in the community, including the status of the vaccine campaign.

New visiting times at Galway University Hospitals

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Visiting times have changed at University Hospital Galway and Merlin Park Hospital, with visitors now allowed access to patients between 2pm and 3pm, and in the evening from 6pm until 7pm.

Access to visitors is still limited to one person per patient each day, and visits must be pre-arranged by contacting the relevant ward or unit in advance.

Visitors to all hospitals will be asked to produce their EU Digital COVID Certificate or HSE COVID-19 Vaccination Record or other proof of immunity at the entrance.

They may also be asked to show some photo ID to prove that the proof of immunity is theirs.

There are separate arrangements in place for access to the maternity department for nominated support partners.

There are exemptions from the requirement for the EU Digital COVID Certificate or HSE COVID-19 Vaccination Record or other proof of immunity, on compassionate grounds.

Children may not visit the hospital unless agreed in advance, on compassionate grounds, with the ward / unit manager.

Ms Chris Kane, Hospital Manager, Galway University Hospitals, said that they know how important it is for patients to have a visitor every day.

She said that they are trying to balance this need with the need to reduce the footfall in the hospital due to the current high number of COVID-19 cases in the community.

“Any person who accesses a hospital may unintentionally introduce COVID-19, so we are trying to limit the number of people who access the hospitals as far as is reasonably practical,” said Ms Kane.

“If you are a nominated support person (visitor) for a patient in the hospital, we ask that you do not visit the hospital if you have any symptoms of COVID-19, have been in contact with anyone with COVID-19 or are awaiting the results of a COVID-19 test.

“We are grateful to the public for their ongoing co-operation in ensuring we can facilitate visiting in a safe manner to protect both patients and visitors.”

Council collects derelict site levies on former Corrib Great Southern

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Galway Daily news Corrib Great Southern derelict levy

Galway City Council has collected substantial levies from the owners of the former Corrib Great Southern for being a derelict site.

Councillor Alan Cheevers said that the council has received approximately €400,000 in relation to the past two years.

The Derelict Sites Act allows local authorities to impose a levy of up to 7 percent of a site’s value where it has been left in a derelict condition.

Councillor Cheevers said that the hotel has been a “serious eyesore” for the city for some time, and a source of worse problems.

“It has been a constant source and location for serious anti-social behavior, including trespass and setting of fires.”

“It has been the bane of the lives of local residents for far too long, and I am delighted that Galway City Council has now finally collected these fines.”

The Fianna Fáil Cllr said that he has requested that funds from the fines be ring-fenced for projects in the east side of Galway City.

Demolition work is currently underway at thensite of the former Corrib Great Southern, which is owned by the billionaire Comer Brothers.

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