Ryan Tubridy headlining virtual business event in Galway

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October 31, 2021

Galway Daily business Ryan Tubridy headlinging virtual Galway business event

RTÉ’s Ryan Tubridy will be among a range of speakers from all walks at a virtual business event next week organised by Galway Executive Skillnet.

Galway Executive Skillnet has organised the Big*Bang, an free online business motivational event taking place next Tuesday, November 2.

Alongside Ryan Tubridy the panel will include Paralympian Medal winners Eve Mc Crystal and Katie George-Dunleavy, and impressionist Oliver Callan, best known for his Callan’s Kicks and Nob Nation satire.

From the world of business comes James McHugh of Galway based Celestica, specialists in automated manufacturing and assembly services, logistics solutions and technical support; as well as Laura Lynch and Emer Joyce, tax consultants and business advisors.

The event will focus on the needs as they continue to pivot, respond and rebuild their businesses, brands and motivate their teams following the impact of the pandemic.

It will combine real life experience of rapid response to lockdown, business closure, realignment of business structures, product and service offerings to self-motivation.

As the Irish economy continues to re-open and respond to changing work practices and market environments, businesses need both internal and external stimulus to survive and thrive in the months and years ahead.

Margaret Cox of Galway Skillnet said that people are responding to an “ever changing” business environment, and that they help people adapt to that.

“We take our members feedback and create innovative, practical and inspiring events and training programmes to motivate business leaders, managers and their teams to grow and thrive in their professional roles but also in growing their business.”

This event aims to highlight “hard fought wins” achieved across multiple business disciplines during the pandemic.

Paralympian gold and silver medalists Eve McCrystal and Katie George Dunleavy will talk about training in lockdown, while Ryan Tubridy, who’s no stranger to Galway and Connemara, hosted the most successful Toy Show in its history during the pandemic.

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Oliver Callan will will show the importance of the balance of the serious and fun side to business, and Celestica and Laura Lynch and Associates will discuss their business model and response to operations in a pandemic, and lessons for business in the current climate.

The Big*Bang event is being run by Galway Executive Skillnet, with funding from Skillnet Ireland, which provides small businesses access to training programmes.

The Big* Bang Event will take place from 10.30am to 1pm on Tuesday, November 2. To register for free, go to: https://bit.ly/BiGBANG2021.

Sharp drop in COVID hospital cases over a week

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Briain Kelly

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October 31, 2021

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There are 31 patients hospitalised with COVID-19 across Galway in the latest figures from the HSE, a sharp decline in the past week.

As of 8pm on Saturday there were just 22 confirmed cases at University Hospital Galway, and nine more at Portiuncula Hospital.

This is 12 fewer than were in UHG a week ago, and a decline of three hospital cases in Ballinasloe in the same period.

The number of COVID patients admitted to the ICU in serious condition has also been cut nearly in half in the same period.

There are four patients being treated for COVID-19 in the intensive care unit at UHG, down from six a week before.

And at Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe there is just on case in the ICU, compared with two the week prior.

Nationwide there were 472 people hospitalised with COVID-19 around the country on Saturday night, of whom 92 are in the ICU.

A further 2,966 confirmed cases in Ireland were reported by health officials yesterday, the highest number since mid-January.

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

Gardaí warn of increased burglary risk in winter months

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Briain Kelly

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October 30, 2021

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Galway Daily news Galway sees decline in burglaries over the past year

Gardaí are warning homeowners to be on guard against burglary this winter, when longer nights typically bring a spike in offences.

Burglary offences can go up by as much as 20% during the winter months according to An Garda Síochána, when daylight hours are their lowest level.

Advice to homeowners cautions that, during winter, burglaries are more likely to occur between 4pm to 9pm, with Thursday, Friday and Saturday as the most likely days to be burgled.

Assistant Commissioner John O’Driscoll said that a burglary in someone’s home can have a “particularly devastating” impact on its victims.

“Through the winter phase of Operation Thor An Garda Síochána continues to focus efforts on interrupting and preventing burglary and related crime and to impact on the activities of criminals involved in the commission of this crime.”

The Winter Phase of Operation Thor will focus on reducing burglary incidents, through targeted enforcement and preventative activity, to March of next year.

Gardaí say that this operation has resulted in a reduction in the rate of winter burglaries, leading to a significant decline in property related crime since its introduction in 2015.

Official Crime statistics continue to show a reduction in Burglary and related offences in 2020 (down by 5,810, or 34.7%) compared to 2019.

This downward trend continues in 2021, with official crime statistics for Q2 2021 showing a continuing reduction in Burglary and related offences (down by 5,349, or 37.2%) compared to Q2 2020.

This could be an effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, as people have been spending far more time at home over the past year and half, both in the day and in the evenings.

Simple steps that can help protect your home from burglary include turning on some lights, using timer switches for lights, lock all doors and windows, use an alarm, store keys away from windows, and don’t keep large amounts of cash or jewellery in the house.

Big plans to overhaul rural bus services in Galway

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Briain Kelly

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October 30, 2021

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Galway Daily news school transport deadline 2023

Rural bus services in Galway could get a serious boost from the new Connecting Ireland plan put forward by the NTA.

The National Transport Authority is proposing significantly expanding the public transport network outside of major towns and cities for the first time.

The plan proposes connecting 100 rural villages with bus services running at least three times daily, with a similar thrice daily service connecting 100 rural areas to their county town.

There will also be more than 60 new connections to regional cities from the surrounding areas.

Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan said that the plan will see an increase in the “number of routes and the frequency of existing services” to all areas.

“Hundreds of rural villages and areas will for the first time will be served by a viable public transport link.”

“To have strong local economies and to give people real options for getting around you need good public transport links.”

Four new bus routes that would serve towns and villages in Galway have been proposed by the National Transport Authority.

A Galway – Nenagh route would serve Oranmore, Loughrea, Portumna, and Borrisokane; a Clifden – Roundstone service would stop in Ballyconneely and other places.

A Ballinasloe – Castlerea bus route would stop at Ahascragh, Mountbellew, Moylough,
Glenamaddy and other places en route; and an Athlone – Roscommon route would stop at Ballygar.

Other changes would include increasing the frequency of a number of rural routes, such as a minimum of one bus an hour between Galway and Clifden, and one every 30 minute for the Galway – Cork route.

The plans also call for integrating and increasing the number of services on multiple other bus routes connecting towns and villages in Galway.

The full list of proposed service changes for Galway, and the accompanying maps, can be found on the NTA website here.

It is proposed under the Connecting Ireland plan that there will be an overall increase in rural bus services of 25% over the five years.

The Connecting Ireland plan was published by the National Transport Authority for public consultation this week. Public feedback on the proposals can be made online here.

Minister Ryan said that with the €5.6 million budgeted to the NTA for 2022, the authority could start delivering these changes from next year.

“I have asked the NTA when this consultation process is complete, to put together an implementation plan so that we can get to work on making Connecting Ireland a reality sooner rather than later.”

Anne Graham, Chief Executive of the NTA, said that they are aware that for many people in rural areas, it is “difficult if not impossible” to live without a car, which they hope to change.

“I believe that expanding the public transport network and increasing service levels, in the way we are proposing, will mean that more people in rural areas will have greater levels of freedom whether or not they have a car.”

Weather Warning: Thunderstorms and localised flooding forecast

By

Briain Kelly

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October 30, 2021

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galway daily news Lightning and flooding forecast as Thunderstorm warning issued

The weather in Galway is expected to take a turn for the much worse tonight, with a thunderstorm weather warning issued for Galway.

Met Eireann has issued a status yellow weather warning for “Thundery outbreaks of rain with possible lightning and localised flooding” on Saturday night.

The warning will be in effect from 9pm tonight, until 2am on Sunday morning.

As well as Galway, the alert covers all of Munster and counties Mayo, Roscommon, and Sligo.

A Gale Warning for coastal waters in the west and south of the country has also been issued by Met Eireann for Saturday evening and night, expiring at midnight.

South to southeast winds will reach gale force 8 at times on Saturday evening from Carnsore Point to Valentia to Erris Head.

Temperatures in Galway are expected to reach lows of 7 degrees tonight, with light to moderate variable winds forecast throughout the day.

COVID-19: Almost 3,000 cases reported today

By

Briain Kelly

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October 30, 2021

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

There have been a further 2,966 confirmed cases of COVID-19 notified by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre today.

As of this morning there 470 people hospitalised with COVID-19 in the country.

Of these patients, 92 have been admitted to the intensive care unit for treatment.

Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer said yesterday that the highest incidence of cases reported was in children aged 5 – 12 years old.

“While the COVID-19 vaccines give high protection against severe illness, hospitalisation and death, the way to break transmission is by following all aspects of the public health advice.”

He urged people to exercise precautions while enjoying the Halloween festivities this weekened.

“If you are having visitors over, provide hand sanitizer, open windows and try to ensure people can spread out and keep their distance from one another – avoid crowded parties.”

“For trick-or-treaters, give out treats outdoors if possible. Wash or sanitize hands frequently, and before eating or handling treats,” Tony Holohan said.

“Neither children nor adults should go trick-or-treating or meet up with others if they have any symptoms of COVID-19, even if symptoms are minor – instead, please isolate and get a test.”

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

Macnas Halloween Parade returning in 2022

By

Briain Kelly

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October 30, 2021

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Galway Daily arts Macnas Halloween Parade returning in 2022 — credit: Julia Dunin Photography

Though the iconic Macnas Halloween parade isn’t taking place this year, the world renowned masters of visual storytelling is planning a return to form next year.

The annual parade is the culmination of a year-long public participation programme involving over 300 local artists, performers and participants.

This is a major undertaking, with activities and planning already well under way for next year’s spectacle to an audience of 70,000 plus people on the streets of Galway.

Ahead of that in 2021, the award-winning group are focusing on educational programmes Macnas At School, the Drumming Ensemble, and the Brass Ensemble.

They are also developing plans for a new initiative for young people, Macnas Spectacle Youth Theatre.

Macnas At School is a creative programme designed specifically for primary schools with a creative mission to invite children into the magical world made by these artists and dreamers.

The programme is led by professional, highly-skilled visual and performance artists, and children will explore the world of the imagination through visual storytelling, making, performance and play.

The first school to take part is Scoil Iognáid in Galway City, where the programme launched this month in partnership with Creative Schools.

Under the guidance of Macnas associate artist Tom Meskell, Rang a Cúig pupils conceived, designed and constructed a magical sea world created with large lantern sculptures, music, special effects and performance.

The Macnas Drumming Ensemble is the beating heart of the company’s epic work, and early next year auditions will be held for budding and experienced drummers alike to join the company.

Macnas Education Coordinator Victoria McCormack said “We are working with drumming school Drumadore on an exciting new partnership which will see an opportunity for younger participants to cut their teeth”.

There they will develop their new skills under the experienced guidance of Macnas Drumming Director and Drumdore Artistic Director Éimhín Cradock.

“Once budding drummers have reached a certain skill level, they will then be eligible to participate in the audition process for the Macnas Drumming Ensemble and participate in our public and community facing events.”

“The ensembles are key to everything we do at Macnas and the development and training of the next generation is at the forefront of the company’s activities.”

The Brass Ensemble features consists of weekly workshops for participants aged 15 or over, led by professional musician and composer Matthew Berrill.

As with all the company’s ensembles, the Brass Ensemble feeds directly into the Parades and other events in the yearly programme of activities, and early 2022 will also see auditions for this talented group.

The up and soon to be coming Macnas Youth Spectacle Theatre will build on the work of the ensemble programmes running for the past decade, with plans to launch in early 2022.

This brand new programme, currently in the planning stages, will be an exciting opportunity for young people to engage with performance and theatre making within the spectacle arts.

Participants will also have the opportunity to be part of the spectacular 2022 Macnas Halloween Parade.

If you would like to get involved in any of these ensemble troupes, email Victoria@macnas.com

Who are the best sportspeople to come out of Galway?

By

Thomas O'Brien

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October 30, 2021

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Galway is one of the most visited and the most talked about parts of Ireland but how does the area stack up for sporting icons?

Sure, don’t expect to find the top power forwards in the NBA among Galway crowd, but there are a bunch of famous athletes in other sports.

Here we take a look at the best sportspeople to come out of Galway.

We’ll be delivering a detailed top five but before we get into those names we want to throw out a special mention to Joe Canning (hurling), Sarah Dervan (camogie), David Forde (football), John Muldoon (rugby) and, finally, Christy O’Connor (golf).

So, who are the best sportspeople to come out of Galway?

Number 5: Aaron Connolly, football

Kicking off our list of the best sportspeople to come out of Galway is Aaron Connolly. We realise it’s early days in the 22-year-old’s career but already he has impressed for Premier League football club Brighton.

The young attacker can boast having scored five Premier League goals with a further eight netted in his young career in other competitions.

On the international scene, Connolly ripped it up with the under 17 team before progressing through the other youth levels: he’s now a full international with eight caps. Who knows how good he can become; if he fulfils his potential then the odds suggest he’ll be right at the top of this list.

Number 4: Paul Hession, athletics

Usain Bolt he is not but in Ireland Paul Hession is worshipped for his sprinting ability. He has represented the nation at both the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games as well as competing and winning medals at the World Athletic Championship and European Team Championship.

His place in Irish history is secured in black and white as well. He holds the Irish record for the fastest time over both 100 and 200 metres; his 100m time is 10:18 with his 200m record 20:30. Both records were set breaking times he’d previously posted.

Number 3: Alan Lee, football

“Alan Lee, goal” sang the Ipswich fans to the tune of Spandau Ballet’s Gold track; Lee had a rather journeyman career after leaving Aston Villa as a youngster without ever making an appearance for the first team.

During that time he formed a huge bond with two clubs; one being Ipswich where he scored 34 goals in 109 appearances and Rotherham (41 in 122).

The Galway born striker’s club career was spent in the football league and whilst he never made the ‘big time’ he had a more than solid career in the second tier. Republic of Ireland call ups eventually came too but he never did get the goal his hard work so deserved.

Number 2: Therese Maher, camogie

Outside of Ireland Therese Maher might not be a name that’s well known. In Ireland, however, the camogie star is idolised. Maher spent her entire 16 year career with Galway where she was hugely respected.

Between 2005 and 2009 Maher collected three All-Star awards before losing in back to back All Ireland finals in 2010 and 2011; the latter saw her scoop a fourth All-Star award with a fifth coming in 2013 as she finally led Galway to glory.

Number 1: Sean Purcell, gaelic football

Sean Purcell might have sadly passed away back in 2005 but the memories of the Gaelic football star live on. His club career was spent solely with the Tuam Stars where he collected 10 titles whilst his county career – with Galway – was also highly decorated in the shape of eight titles (seven Connacht and one All-Ireland).

The fact he was named in both the GAA century and millennium teams further evidence just how masterful his game was.

There you have it, the best sportspeople to come out of Galway. Did we miss anyone? Let us know and hope we can see some more stars under the spotlight soon.

Traffic calming measures planned for Renmore and Knocknacarra

By

Briain Kelly

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October 30, 2021

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

Galway City Council has announced plans for traffic calming upgrades to roads in Renmore and Knocknacarra to make them safer for pedestrians.

Upgrade works are planned for Ballyloughane Road and Renmore Avenue on the east side of the city, and Clybaun Road south in Knocknacarra.

Both areas will see a significant number of raised junction entries, traffic light controlled pedestrian crossings, and inline bus stops installed along the roads in question.

The Clybaun Road’s junction with Shangort Road will be upgraded to a traffic light controlled junction, including for new pedestrian crossings.

In Renmore, traffic lights will be installed at the junctions of Ballyloughane Road/Private Road (to Gaelscoil Dara), Ballyloughane Rd/Renmore Avenue, and Renmore Av/Renmore Rd.

These will include traffic light controlled pedestrian crossings on all arms of the road junctions.

School Zone markings and other traffic interventions will be placed by Gaelscoil Dara and Scoil Caitríona.

Speed ramps are to be installed on the Ballyloughane Road, south of the railway, and three non-light controlled pedestrian crossings will also be installed.

Ancillary works in both areas will include Kerb Realignment, Pavement Works, Landscaping, Public Lighting, footway renewals, traffic signs, and road markings.

These traffic calming measures are similar to what is being proposed for Doughiska Road South, along with Canal Street Upper and Lower in the city centre.

Drawings and maps of the proposed upgrades will be available for public inspection at city hall during business hours until November 25.

Drawings are also available for inspection on the Galway City Council website: www.galwaycity.ie or www.activetravelgalway.ie.

Observations and submissions in respect of the proposed upgrade should be made through an online form via Active Travel, emailed to activetravel@galwaycity.ie, or in writing and addressed to Mr. Uinsinn Finn, A/Director of Services, Transportation & Planning, Yeats College Annex, College Road, Galway before 4pm on November 25.

President Higgins and German President Steinmeier visit TG4 in Spiddal

By

Briain Kelly

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October 30, 2021

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President Higgins and German President Steinmeier visit TG4 in Spiddal

President Michael D. Higgins and President of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited the Ros na Rún studios in Spiddal on Friday during a state visit.

Presidents Higgins and Steinmeier made their trip to the television studios out in Connemara on the final day of his three-day trip to Ireland.

The trip also marked the 25th anniversary of TG4, which was actually founded by President Higgins as TnaG back when he was the Minister for Arts.

The station went on air for the first time on October 31st 1996, and in the past quarter century TG4’s vision has been to promote the Irish language and culture in people’s lives, in Ireland and worldwide.

The Presidents were given a taste of the cultural, linguistic, and economic importance of TG4, especially Gaeltacht regions.

They were treated to a live action scene from Ros na Rún actors on set and a musical performance by internationally renowned traditional Irish musician and composer Johnny Óg Connolly and sean-nós singer Pól Ó Ceannabháin.

Johnny Óg is a Spiddal native himself, and has collaborated with Also present were Údarás na Gaeltachta who had a leading role in training and development in the sector in 1996 and continue to work closely with TG4.

Carna man Pól Ó Ceannabháin won the coveted sean-nós singing competition, Corn Uí Riada at Oireachtas na Gaeilge in 2012, was awarded TG4 Gradam Ceoil Singer of the year in 2016 and was ambassador for Culture Night Ireland 2020.

Also present were Údarás na Gaeltachta, who had a leading role in training and development in the sector in 1996, and continue to work closely with TG4.

Chief Executive of Údarás Micheál Ó hÉanaigh said that they were delighted to showcase the “intertwined aspects” of Gaeltacht tradition and modern innovation to the two presidents.

“The audio-visual sector is vitally important to the Irish language and the Gaeltacht itself and it is a source of pride for Údarás na Gaeltachta to have had a central role in the growth of the sector over the last forty years and especially in advance of the establishment twenty-five years ago of Teilifís na Gaeilge or TG4 as it is now.”

Siún Ní Raghallaigh, Cathaoirleach of the TG4 Board said that since the channel first launched, it has been a champion of “Irish culture, creativity and talent”, with an ever growing audience.

“2021 is an important milestone for TG4 as we celebrate our 25th year on air and look forward to continuing to invest in a vibrant, creative independent sector which ensures TG4 and the Irish language remain relevant and important part of Ireland’s Public Service Media.”

COVID-19: 2,549 cases reported today

By

Briain Kelly

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October 29, 2021

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

There have been a further 2,549 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health today.

As of Friday morning there were 481 people in Ireland admitted to hospital with COVID.

Of these patients, 97 are being treated in intensive care units in serious condition.

Daily case numbers may be revised in the future, after data is reviewed and validated.

In the past week there have been 144,604 tests carried out in the state, with 11% of them returning positive results.

Up to Thursday there had been 7,321,145 doses of vaccine administered in the state, with 3,747,419 people fully vaccinated.

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

Community rallies around hit & run victim left for dead in Furbo garden

By

Michael Malone

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October 29, 2021

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galway daily news hit and run victim costa

A fundraiser has been set up for a man who was knocked down in a hit and run incident last weekend in Galway city.

Venâncio ‘Costa’ Sousa from Portugal remains in a critical condition in ICU at University Hospital Galway following the violent collision.

The 49-year-old was hit by a driver in the Furbo area on Sunday and at around 12pm on Monday, Costa was discovered in a garden near to where he was knocked down.

Costa has been put into an induced coma and is currently relying on life support for breathing.

He has a broken pelvis, broken ribs, a swollen bladder and kidneys, and is on hemodialysis. Costa also has a lot of bleeding and inner injuries, as well as multiple head wounds from the impact.

His sister Mariana, who set up the fundraiser, said that the coming days will be very decisive for whether Costa can pull through.

“Doctors can’t give a prediction of what might happen,” she said on the GoFundMe page.

“Have to be day by day. His condition is very serious and right now all his family and friends praying for his life.

“At this time any help is important to save Costa’s life, and I thank from the bottom of my heart all those who can generously help.”

Donate here.

Water restored in Spiddal following burst mains

By

Briain Kelly

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October 29, 2021

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Galway Daily news Water outages in Athenry on Tuesday

Repairs have been completed to a burst water mains in Spiddal today, and people affected should have seen their water begin to return.

A burst water main in Spiddal was first reported by Irish Water around 11am on Friday morning.

This caused outages and supply disruptions to people living in Spiddal, Inverin, and surrounding areas.

Irish Water reported shortly after 3pm this afternoon, that repairs were now completed on the burst mains, and water should begin to return to affected homes.

It can take 2-3 hours after this point for people to get their full water supply back as the network refills.

Galway City secures additional funding for live music events

By

Briain Kelly

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October 29, 2021

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Galway Daily arts more funding for live music events in Galway City

Galway City is making the most of the full return of live music entertainment, with venues invited to seek grants for live events.

Galway City Council has secured additional funding under the Local Live Performance Programming scheme to support more local musicians, acts and bands, and has placed an open call for venues staging events to come forward.

This scheme from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media was created to help the live entertainment and music sector get back to its feet after a long time of closed venues and cancelled concerts.

It aims to support jobs, and bring back the craic, by having venues engage the services of locally based professional artists, musicians, crew and other staff members involved in live performances.

This isn’t just restricted to booking gigs, as this phase of the scheme can also support cross-collaborative events or initiatives.

Expenditures which are eligible under the scheme include:

Artists’ Wages & Fees
Technical Crew Wages & Fees
Production Technical Costs – Set Build/Rehearsals
Video Streaming Costs (Only if required due to restrictions)
Technical Equipment Hire
Management Costs (incl. Promoter / Producer fees)
Venue Costs (to include crew / overhead / payroll / For the duration of production only)
Health and Safety / Security
Intellectual Property Costs
Marketing & Promotion

To submit an application under the Local Live Performance Programming Scheme Phase II, please complete the following application form and return to Galway City Council by November 4, 2021.

This fund will cover events up until December 31, no extensions are possible. All funds should be drawn down by December 1, 2021. All applications should be sent to ruairi.lehmann@galwaycity.ie and candc@galwaycity.ie

A different kind of Squid game

By

Briain Kelly

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October 29, 2021

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Galway Daily news A different kind of Squid Game

It’s not the hit Netflix series, but Galway’s Marine Institute thinks there’s a lot of cool stuff that young kids would love to learn about squid.

Throughout the month of October, the Marine Institute’s Explorers Education Programme has been celebrating the curious cephalopods, and creating resources to bring those fun facts to primary schools.

A wide array of free resources have been created for the Explorers Learning about Squid: Cephalopod Science Investigations programme to teach primary school children about these strange creatures from beneath the waves.

These include an interactive film, free books on topics such as getting kids started learning about squid, a deep dive into all the different species, and a workbook for the students to detail their own investigations and other fun activities.

Patricia Orme, Corporate Services Director at the Marine Institute said that these creatures are more fascinating creatures than people often realise, and that these resources offer a great insight into them.

“With the interactive film showing a scientific squid dissection, resource books about squid species, as well as presentations and lesson plans, we are delighted to see these materials showcasing the squid species in all guises”.

“Marine scientists around the world have been studying squid for many years, learning about their evolution, what they eat and what eats them, as well as their habitats and distribution in the global ocean.”

“When talking about cephalopods, we often think of the charismatic octopus, or the cuttlefish and their ability to change colours.”

“However, squid also have special qualities, including the ability to see long distances in the dark, and being able to fly above the water.”

There are more than 300 species of squid in the world, ranging from itty fellas the size of your finger nail, to deep sea leviathans that fight whales.

The mystery of them has attracted the attention of storytellers, artists, filmmakers, and more down through centuries. With the once thought non-existent giant squid now believed to have inspired myths of the Kraken.

The behaviour and special features of cephalopods have been the inspiration for many other people’s work as well.

This has included engineers developing technology used in the deepest parts of the ocean, to scientists creating materials that can change colour, as well as even sending them into space for research.

Along with watching the interactive film, primary school children can take part in a range of fun activities and games connected to the subject, such as designing their own camouflage suit, creating a flying squid, or jet propulsion experiments.

The Learning about Squid dissection and facts film is supported by three books that are free to download from its website Explorers.ie.

Galway groups take part in We Act campaign

By

Michael Malone

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October 29, 2021

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galway daily news we act — No repro fee 27-10-21 Hundreds of Irish charities join forces for ‘We Act’ campaign to drive post-pandemic community recovery Pictured showcasing the breadth and diversity of Ireland’s charity and community sector in Ireland at the launch of We Act — a new campaign by charities and community groups that have come together to create awareness of the value and impact of the charity and community sector in Ireland. Pic:Naoise Culhane-no fee Showcasing the breadth and diversity of Ireland’s charity and community sector in Ireland were representatives from Barretstown, BeLonGTo, Cliona’s Foundation, Dog’s Trust, Irish National Youth Ballet, Lakers Social and Recreational Club, Muslim Sisters of Éire, Sanctuary Runners, Speedpak, St Josephs Shankill, Trócaire, Wildlife Rehabilitation Ireland and Young Social Innovators, who were pictured with the We Act ‘admobile’, which is visiting different parts of Dublin to connect with local charities and community groups across the remainder of the week. The We Act campaign was established in response to the huge upswell of volunteering and community activity during the Covid-19 pandemic and the realisation amongst the six founding organisations that there needs to be a concentrated effort to ensure the goodwill and community cohesion that happened during the pandemic continues. ENDS Contact: Maisie Lynch / Nicola Foxe, Alice PR & Events, Tel: 086-8966298 / 086-0878876, Email: media@alicepr.com Pic:Naoise Culhane-no fee

Organisations in Galway have taken part in the launch of We Act – a new national campaign aimed at building on the upswell of community activity during COVID to help drive the post-pandemic recovery.

Galway-based Ability West and Meals4Health both feature in a promotional video released this week to coincide with the launch of We Act.

Charities and community groups across the county are being encouraged to join the national campaign.

Ability West is based in Salthill and has provided services and supports to children and adults with intellectual disabilities and comorbidities for almost 60 years.

The organisation has 62 centres located across Galway city and county, and is patron of four special schools in Ballinasloe, Carraroe, Galway city and Tuam.

Meals4Health supports older people to live independently in their homes by providing them with fresh meals, designed to meet the particular dietary needs of individuals. The organisation is based on the Tuam Road in Galway city.

The campaign aims to promote the value and impact of Ireland’s charity and community sector. There are 34,000 organisations in the sector, employing almost 165,000 people and with a further 1 million volunteers.

Commenting on the launch of We Act, the campaign’s manager, Sarah Monaghan, said that the COVID-19 crisis brought a renewed public focus on the work of their sector.

“From support lines for older people to laptops for children in emergency accommodation, when we saw a need in our communities – in Galway and right across the country – we responded to it,” said Sarah.

“The pandemic demonstrated that, in times of real need, charities and community groups are at the forefront of our national response.

“We saw a shift in values towards equality, justice and supports for the most vulnerable in our communities and across the globe.

“Now, there needs to be a concentrated effort to ensure the innovation, goodwill and community cohesion continues as we recover from the pandemic.”

Public consultation open on next Ballinasloe local area plan

By

Briain Kelly

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October 29, 2021

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Galway Daily news Public consultation open on next Ballinasloe local area plan

Have your say on the priorities for the development of the Ballinasloe area over the coming seven years in the next local area plan.

Galway County Council is currently holding a public consultation on the Draft Ballinasloe Local Area Plan 2022 – 2028.

The deadline for public submissions and observations on the draft plan is Wednesday, December 3.

To make a submission register online at the council’s consultation portal, where you can also view the draft LAP, and say your piece.

Submissions can also be made by emailing forwardplanning@galwaycoco.ie, or by letter to the Forward Planning Office of the council. People should only submit their observation through one medium.

Children or groups and associations representing the interests of children are also entitled to make submissions or observations regarding policy objectives.

More protection needed for healthcare workers after almost 9k abuse reports

By

Briain Kelly

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October 29, 2021

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Galway Daily news More protection needed for healthcare workers after almost 9k abuse reports

Almost 9,000 healthcare workers reported incidents of either verbal, physical, or sexual assault in the workplace last year.

The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation spoke out against the violence healthcare workers are facing on the job at the recent Irish Congress of Trade Unions Biennial Delegate Conference.

The INMO said that greater protections are needed for their members at a time when they are extremely overworked on multiple fronts.

Overcrowded hospitals create a high-pressure environment where tensions can lead to violence, and proper staffing levels would help to address this, the union argued.

INMO Executive Council member, Lynda Deane said said that “Any assault on a worker while they are trying to do their job is unacceptable.”

“We need to know what measures are being put in place to protect a largely female work force? The employer’s remit is to provide a safe workplace. This level of reported incidence is completely unacceptable.”

Figures from the HSE’s National Incident Management Scheme show that in 2020 over 8,667 staff reported physical, verbal and sexual assault in the workplace.

Just under half of those incidents were reported by nurses and midwives, accounting for 4,166 reports of some kind of assault.

Lynda Deane added that, from her own experience as a midwife, there are many other times when assaults would go unreported, since nursing staff simply don’t have the time.

“We need assurances that our employer is taking measures to protect nurses and midwives seriously because the rise in incidents of assault is a serious cause of concern.”

INMO General Secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha said that Ireland’s hospitals are beyond full, creating a “pressure cooker” environment.

“With that frustration can run high and a tiny minority unacceptably attack staff. This means that frontline staff are being put at risk for conditions they are not responsible for.

“With proper staffing, care would be faster and better, which would ensure tensions in hospitals don’t build up.”

Early stage plans for 258 homes in Oranmore

By

Briain Kelly

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October 29, 2021

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Plans are in their early stages for the construction of 258 houses and apartments on the outskirts of Oranmore.

Roykeel Ltd is seeking approval from An Bord Pleanála for a Strategic Housing Development on land to the west of the N67 at Oranhill, Oranmore.

The proposed housing development would consist of 127 houses and 131 apartments, along with a creche and other site works.

Planning permission had previously been granted to Roykeel for a mixed use development at Oranhill, comprising 161 homes, a hotel, and a leisure centre.

These new plans are currently at the pre-application consultation stage, where the developer must outline the plans to An Bord Pleanála and local council to determine if it qualifies as an SHD.

An Bord Pleanála is due to make a ruling on this consultation by December 23 of this year. If is approved, the developer will then be able to bring a strategic housing development application.

The SHD process, allowing developers to make planning applications directly to the Bord, has been criticised for leading to a massive spike in judicial reviews sought, and therefore undermining its objective of fast tracking housing construction.

The government has committed to replacing it next year, with legislation that will have applications made first to the council.

Three NUI Galway academics get funding to investigate societal challenges

By

Michael Malone

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October 29, 2021

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Three NUI Galway academics have been awarded funding for research projects which aim to investigate societal challenges as a result of climate change, digitalisation and extinction.

Dr Una Murray, Professor Kieran Walsh and Dr Kevin Healy secured funding from the Irish Research Council’s COALESCE programme for their separate research projects.

Professor Jim Livesey, Vice President for Research and Innovation at NUI Galway, commended the researchers on being awarded the COALESCE programme funding.

“Their commitment to overcome the global challenges that we face stay true to our University’s values of Respect, Openness, Sustainability and Excellence,” said Professor Livesey.

“Investigating these societal challenges is a wonderful example of how our research aims to tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues through the Global Challenges Programme in our new Research and Innovation Strategy.

“I would also like to thank the Irish Research Council and the Department of Foreign Affairs for their continued support of our public research mission.”

Dr Una Murray, an international development expert from the School of Geography, Archaeology and Celtic Studies and the University’s Ryan Institute, has been awarded €338,000 for a three-year research project on climate change and migration in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Dr Murray’s project will investigate links between human migration and climate change, combined with the role of social protection in Ethiopia.

“Land degradation, water scarcity and declines in agriculture production, driven by an increasing intensity and frequency of environmental disasters induced by climate change, are key triggers for people to move from rural to urban areas for employment opportunities,” said Dr Una Murray.

“Social protection, social insurance, and cash transfers, although present in the UN Sustainable Development Goals and in the climate loss and damage debate, could play a stronger role in human migration and other forms of climate adaptation.”

Professor Kieran Walsh, Centre for Social Gerontology, NUI Galway, has been awarded €192,161 for a project addressing related challenges concerning digital exclusion and limited opportunities for engagement and participation for older people.

Virtual-EngAge aims to examine how everyday communication devices – telephones, smart phones and tablets – could be used by retirement groups to strengthen ways to support members and others to stay connected, to share critical information and to advocate on key issues.

The project will help to address the question of ageing related technology being developed without consultation with older people, and not reflecting their needs, preference or daily lives and will also help provide improvements in policy, older people’s lives, research teams and teaching programmes.

Professor Walsh said: “The COALESCE funding will enable us to pursue a really critical research area, within the Virtual-EngAge research programme, identifying how we can harness everyday technologies to enhance older people’s social connectivity and civic voices while also recognising and capitalising on the innate skills of many older people for adaptation and learning.

“This funding is really important as it not only helps us respond to the gaps exposed by the Covid-19 pandemic, but to do so using a much needed interdisciplinary approach with our Co-Investigator on this programme, Professor Carl Vogel from Trinity College Dublin, and through a valuable collaboration with Active Retirement Ireland.”

Dr Kevin Healy, a Lecturer of Zoology and researcher in the Ryan Institute, will collaborate with Dr David Doyle, a lecturer in Law at MU, to investigate how we decide which species to bring back from extinction and whether a de-extinct species could be legally “owned” through patents. The project was awarded funding of €190,803.

The project will examine how different factors might drive which species are ultimately restored from extinction and whether the species resulting from the de-extinction process will fall under international protection laws or are open to being patented.

Dr Healy said: “We want to explore which species are likely to be selected for de-extinction.

“For example, how do ecological considerations, such as the impact a de-extinct species would have on the environment, or the level of interest from the general public affect these decisions?

“Will the species we bring back from extinction simply reflect technological and ecological limitations or will financial factors be the main de-extinction selection criteria?”

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