Water outages in Spiddal & Inverin due to burst mains

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October 9, 2021

galway daily news Athenry Agricultural Show returns after long absence

Gardaí are reminding people that the Ballinasloe Fair & Festival is not going ahead this weekend.

Additional Gardaí are being deployed to Ballinasloe this weekend out of concerns that crowds will gather anyway, for unofficial festivities.

Gatherings were reported in the area last weekend for ad-hoc gatherings that were not part of the official fair.

The Fair’s coordinating group announced back in July that it was being cancelled for the second year in a row for health and safety reasons.

It said that after consultation with the HSE “the Coordination Committee were advised that it is unlikely that assurances could be given that we could have a return to normality with the removal of all COVID restrictions for public and outdoor gatherings by October 2021.”

“The Coordinating Committee would like to thank the local community, sponsors, and all associations involved for their ongoing commitment and support.”

“We look forward to welcoming all participants and visitors to Ballinasloe Fair and Festival in 2022.”

The 2022 Ballinasloe Horse Fair and Festival will mark the 300th anniversary of the historic and world renowned event.

The Stunning and David Kitt announced for Ceol an tSamhraidh 4th edition

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October 9, 2021

Galway Daily music The Stunning and David Kitt announced for Ceol an tSamhraidh 4th edition

For a fun weekend out in Galway this month, enjoy two free live concerts featuring The Stunning and David Kitt in the latest Ceol an tSamhraidh events.

On Saturday, September 16 at 8pm The Stunning will take to the stage at the Town Hall Theatre in Ballinasloe to perform their numerous hit singles including Brewing up a Storm, Half Past Two, Romeo’s on Fire, Heads are Gonna Roll and Brighten up my Life.

During the early nineties, the biggest Irish band in the world was U2 but in Ireland it was The Stunning. In the seven years they were initially together, they toured relentlessly building up a following that would make them one of the most successful Irish bands ever.

Their debut album, ‘Paradise in The Picturehouse’ spent five weeks at number one and became one of the most-loved Irish albums of all time.

There is also a very special evening planned for Friday, October 22, when David Kitt will entertain those lucky enough to book tickets at The Station House in Clifden.

It will be his first time playing Clifden, celebrating by performing his new top ten release album ‘20’. An artist known for his willingness to explore musically, he was invited by David Bowie to perform at the Bowie curated Meltdown Festival at the Royal Festival Hall in 2002.

David has also worked with David Gray, toured with Tindersticks and collaborated with Fedah and Kean Kavanagh.

“We are very pleased to be able to bring these incredibly talented artists to audiences this October to extend the tourism season and provide an events based focus in the evening economy in two very different parts of Galway,” said Ruth Mulhern, Galway County Tourism Officer.

County Arts Officer Sharon O’Grady added “Ceol an tSamhraidh continues to deliver high-quality performances with the addition of these two special concerts.”

“This programme allows us to support wonderful performing artists and crew, whilst also entertaining audiences across Galway.”

The Ceol an tSamhraidh series, now in its fourth edition, is funded through the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.

It aims to provide support for people in the live performance industry, and provide live concerts in towns and villages around Galway this year, to bring some life back to the county after a glum year.

Tickets for the two free concerts can be booked via the Ceol an tSamhraidh Eventbrite page.

As Irish Gambling Laws Change, Where Do You Stand?

By

Thomas O'Brien

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October 9, 2021

Ireland has a history of its people enjoying a flutter, much like many other countries in the world. However, the amount of money being gambled has led many to view the country as perhaps enjoying one or two flutters too many.

In 2019, Business World reported that the population of Ireland had wagered almost €10 billion on various forms of gambling. This amounted to an average of around €380 per person in the whole of the country.

However, when it comes to the biggest gamblers in Europe, the UK leads the way. Ireland and the UK have traditionally enjoyed fairly relaxed gambling laws, and the people of these countries enjoy many sports, including horse racing, and football.

Italy is also one of the biggest gambling nations. This is quite fitting as Venice is the home to the first, and oldest casino in the world. And, it is Ireland’s new laws that are now changing the way casinos and other forms of gambling can happen there.

Are there any casinos in Ireland?

In many countries around the world, casinos can be part of regular forms of entertainment. Over forty percent of Americans visited a casino in the years preceding the pandemic, and there are many famous casino destinations.

Las Vegas, Monte Carlo, and Macau are just three places that are intrinsically linked to gambling and casinos. However, although Ireland has many popular forms of gambling, casinos aren’t one of the legitimate options.

Ireland doesn’t officially have any casinos. At least, not in the same way that England, America, or Macau does.

Where do people go to bet in Ireland?

If there are no casinos, then where do Irish folk go to place a bet, or have a wager?

Bookmakers, bingo halls, fruit machines in pubs, and the lottery, also exist, just like in many other European countries.

But anyone who wants to play casino games has two choices really. If you are in Ireland and you want to play poker or blackjack, then a live casino online can provide everything you may need. Slots, craps, roulette.

However, if you are looking for some real-life action, then a traditional casino is what you are craving. In Ireland though, these are technically illegal. So, the alternative is a private members gambling club

That sounds ok, so there is still a kind of casino then?

Yes, there are casinos in Ireland, although technically, there aren’t.

These private members clubs don’t normally need much approval to join, it is usually just a formality. Perhaps some will charge for the privilege to access the establishment, but they operate this way to stay within the law. It is not about exclusivity.

Across the world, from Vegas to Tanzania, there are mega casino resorts that boast multiple floors, thousands of gaming machines, and private poker rooms, but Ireland’s scene is different.

Perhaps the best way to describe Ireland’s casino scene is to say they are more boutique than supercasino resorts. They also have an emphasis on one particular game.

What are the most popular ways to bet in Ireland?

Out of all the ways to bet in Ireland, sports betting is still one of the most popular.

There are over 1,000 bookmakers across the country, and popular sporting events include football, horse racing, Gaelic football, and golf. At least when it comes to sports betting it does.

For many, the lottery is a popular weekly diversion, and daily fantasy sports captivate many too. For some, it is online betting that has the biggest draw, and sites such as LVBET that let you play casino games, as well as bet on sports, are convenient.

When it comes to the gambling clubs though, the game of choice is often poker. Now though, the laws in Ireland are changing.

How are the laws surrounding gambling changing?

In recent years, there have been some changes to gambling laws. The minimum age that someone could gamble was raised from 16 to 18.

Private gambling clubs have always generally been 18 minimum, perhaps because of alcohol sales taking place, and the general adult nature of the clubs. One actually took this further and made the minimum entry age, 21.

There is a long history of amusement arcades and piers in Ireland and the UK. Fairgrounds and amusement halls often have games that include cash prizes, or rewards worth a certain amount of money.

Crane grabs, push ha’penny, and fruit machines all feature in these venues. Traditionally, it has seemed normal for children to play these games. In fact, the UK only made it illegal for under 18s to play some of these games this year in March.

Ireland changed their laws a couple of years before.

According to Citizens Information, the Betting Act 1931 makes it illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to be in a bookmakers. In Ireland, anyone under 18 is classed as a child. This means that it is also illegal for a 17-year-old to use game machines at funfairs and amusement arcades.

Other law changes though will affect the future of Ireland’s strange relationship with casinos.

What is happening with private gambling clubs in Ireland?

Because casinos are technically prohibited in Ireland, many view private gaming clubs as circumventing the law.

Changes to the law may mean that any club that doesn’t fully adhere to licensing and following the law could close.

However, it isn’t just gambling clubs being threatened by the new changes. Even online casinos and bookmakers could suffer.

What law is going to change the way that Irish players gamble?

Over a year ago, the pandemic was announced and life changed for many. During those initial lockdown periods, internet usage shot through the roof.

One of the biggest changes in internet searches was that of online casinos. In Ireland, online casinos are still on the rise as people prefer to play from home.

One other thing that changed over in the UK at the start of the pandemic, was that credit cards got banned from being used to gamble with.

Ireland is now joining in on that act. To try to reduce problem gambling, Ireland is banning any gambling establishment from accepting credit cards as payment for any form of wager.

This includes online gaming and casino sites too. If anyone accepts credit cards for deposits or bets, they face being stripped of their gambling license, and being fined.

How will this affect the Irish gambling industry?

For campaigners, the changes are welcome. Less underground casinos, fewer problem gamblers, reduced credit card debt. These are the targets of many of those who are against gambling.

However, as restrictions on certain activities over the years have shown, if people want to enjoy something that is banned, they will find a way.

Prohibition, gambling bans in Nevada, and other curfews or laws end up being circumvented or ignored. However, credit card bans should be welcomed as a way to reduce the crippling debt that some players find themselves in.

Summary

While the new gambling laws may rid the country of some establishments that are less than savoury, legitimate businesses can still flourish.

Irish people, just like many other Europeans, enjoy a flutter now and again and have no problem with it. The future though looks more and more like it is going to be online. As Covid worries some people away from heading to busy casinos, the internet provides a safe and convenient way to play.

UHG rolls out state-of-the-art Cancer Information system

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October 9, 2021

Galway Daily news UHG rolls out state-of-the-art Cancer Information system

University Hospital Galway has become the first hospital in the country to rollout out a pioneering Cancer Information System, which will standardise sharing of patient information.

The National Cancer Information System (NCIS) provides a single national computerised system that records and stores information about a patient’s cancer case, diagnosis and treatment.

The goal of this project is to create a single system to support the care of oncology and haemato-oncology patients including the provision of Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy or Chemotherapy across Ireland.

Access to a patient’s longitudinal cancer record will be available through the NCIS. This will ensure that all relevant healthcare providers will have access to the patients’ data in an appropriate and timely manner.

Chris Kane, General Manager, Galway University Hospitals said, “The implementation of NCIS marks an important milestone for UHG.”

“NCIS will improve the quality and safety of patient care for people with cancer and I am very glad to see this project come to fruition.”

Peter Kidd, project manager of the NCIS said, “The patient’s journey is central to the design of the new system, it’s about ensuring the right medication, the right patient, the right dose, the right place and the right time.”

“We are the first hospital in the country to host and share Multi-Disciplinary Meetings on NCIS. This means that specialists from different areas of medicine and different geographical regions are coming together, accessing the same information in real-time and making informed treatment plans for patients.”

“It is a safer and faster way of ensuring that doctors, nurses, pharmacists and allied health professionals have access to the right information to provide the best care.”

UHG also hosted the pilot project for this initiative, which started in 2018 with the appointment of project manager/pharmacy and nurse training resources.

COVID-19: 2,002 new cases reported today

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October 8, 2021

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

A total of 2,002 new cases of COVID-19 have been reported by health officials this afternoon.

As of 8am this morning, there are 354 people in hospitals across the State with the disease, of whom 73 are in intensive care units.

There are now 19 confirmed cases receiving treatment at University Hospital Galway, according to the latest HSE data.

The number of COVID patients at UHG is up four from the previous day’s figures, and seven higher than the start of the month.

Four of the patients at University Hospital Galway have been been admitted to the intensive care unit for treatment.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn said that today’s case number reflects an increased number of positive tests on specimens collected over the last three days.

“However, the total number of COVID-19 cases reported in the last 7 days (8845 cases) is fewer than the previous 7 days (9115 cases), with the 7 day moving average of daily cases at 1264 today, compared to 1302 a week ago,” he said.

“We will continue to monitor this situation closely to see if the trend in new infections over recent days is sustained.

“If you are experiencing a high temperature, dry cough, or flu like symptoms please stay at home – do not go to work or socialise.

“To keep yourself and your family safe please continue to regularly wash your hands, wear a mask when appropriate, open windows and ventilate indoor spaces, and choose outdoors where possible for meeting others.”

Three Bank of Ireland branches in Galway closing permanently today

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October 8, 2021

Galway Daily news Three Bank of Ireland branches in Galway closing permanently today

Three Bank of Ireland branches in Galway are closing for good today, as part of a nationwide shrinking of their operations.

The BOI branches in Dunmore, Ballygar, and Oughterard are among 88 around the country which will be shutting their doors today.

Galway TD Denis Naughten said that losing their bank branch is a “serious setback” for towns which were reinventing themselves before the pandemic hit.

He described today’s closures as a “huge blow to the communities serviced by these branches, making it far more difficult for them to recover after COVID”.

The closures by Bank of Ireland were announced back in March, as a response to losses of more than €740 million in 2020, and a growing shift towards online banking.

However, Denis Naughten said that online services have not been taken up by everyone, and not equally, which poses a problem.

“With 13% of people not using online banking, a figure that is even higher across regional Ireland, even a simple service such as the provision of 24 hour access to an ATM for both lodgements and withdrawals would make a big difference in helping these towns recover after Covid.”

Band of Ireland have also confirmed this week that some banking services will be available at post offices around the country.

Under a deal with An Post, BOI customers will be able to avail of cash lodgements and withdrawls, and cheque lodgements, at 923 post offices around Ireland.

Debbie Byrne, Managing Director of An Post Retail said “An Post continues to build a sustainable and successful national post office network that is modern, relevant, re-invigorated and providing community banking on the doorstep for the customers and communities we serve.

“We are delighted to provide this facility to Bank of Ireland customers to access their account, pay in cash and cheques, and withdraw money 6 days a week.”

Denis Naughten said that the sweeping closures by BOI, along with Ulster Bank’s withdrawal from Ireland, calls for the government to revisit the concept of a state bank for SMEs and personal customers.

“We have two distinct customer bases that are being excluded by the current two bank model in this country, namely personal customers and small businesses. Both elements need to be addressed in a new banking model.”

He added that the basic infrastructure for such a banking system already exists, but is currently fragmented

“Instead of a copy and paste model from some other country we should start with our credit unions, post offices and the two State banks, namely the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland and Microfinance Ireland.”

“So rather than trying to reinvent the wheel, we need to build on these key strengths and design an economic strategy for rebuilding our economy through our local businesses which are so important to recovery outside our cities.”

The Independent TD said that a Dáil Committee needs to be established to examine the creation of a state banking force in Ireland.

Seven Galway areas record COVID rates below national average

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October 8, 2021

galway daily news covid-19 incidence rates in galway leas

Seven of Galway’s ten local electoral areas have recorded 14-day COVID incidence rates below the national average in the latest data taken this week.

Galway City East still has the highest rate in the county with 515 cases per 100,000 inhabitants after 137 new cases were reported there in the two weeks to October 4.

In Galway City Central, the rate now stands at 397 (106 new cases in two weeks) and Galway City West has a rate of 225 (57 cases).

Tuam’s rate has fallen again this week to 392 cases per 100,000 people, with 130 confirmed cases in 14 days.

Athenry-Oranmore’s rate increased to 259 (130 cases), while Loughrea’s incidence is 155 (36 cases).

A total of 77 new cases were recorded in Gort-Kinvara, taking its 14-day COVID rate 328 – almost double the rate recorded there last week.

In Connemara, 60 new cases were confirmed in the two weeks to 4 October, with 35 cases in the Conamara North electoral area giving it an incidence rate of 204, while Conamara South’s rate is 117 cases per 100,000 people.

The national incidence rate when the data was taken was 372 cases per 100,000 people.

COVID cases continue to rise again at UHG

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October 8, 2021

Galway Daily news COVID cases continue to rise at UHG

The number of COVID-19 patients at UHG has continued to increase, with 19 confirmed cases in the latest figures.

The number of COVID patients at UHG is up four from the previous day’s figures, and seven higher than the start of the month.

Four of the patients at University Hospital Galway have been been admitted to the intensive care unit for treatment.

At Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe, the number of COVID patients has remained steady at two in recent days. Neither of these patients is currently in the intensive care unit there.

Nationwide, there were 351 people in Ireland hospitalised with COVID-19 as of Thursday night, of whom 69 are in the ICU.

Festival performances in Galway City cancelled due to weather warning

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October 8, 2021

Galway daily news Festival performances in Galway City cancelled due to weather warning

Outdoor festival performances which were to take place in Galway City this weekend have been cancelled due to the weather warning currently in place.

Galway City Council has said that the events planned for the Eyes on the Horizon festival this Saturday and Sunday, October 9-10, have been cancelled.

“Unfortunately due to adverse weather conditions and the yellow warning for rainfall in place the Galway City Council Eyes on the Horizon programme on October 9 & 10 is cancelled,” an update this morning stated.

Eyes on the Horizon festival is a programme of live performances taking place in Galway City this month, funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, and presented by the city council.

The coronavirus pandemic has disrupted everyday life and cultural expressions around the nation and across the world and this programme aims to provide the people of Galway with the opportunity to experience great art and culture on their doorstep.

During the month of October, public spaces across the city will be animated with an exciting programme of performances by Galway based musicians, artists and performers.

Galway is currently under a status yellow weather warning for heavy rain and possible flooding, which will be in place until 3am on Saturday.

Friday is expected to see the worst of the rainfall, where significant accumulations are possible in upland areas due to heavy and persistent downpours forecast.

Among the events which were to go ahead this weekend included Silly Spooky Tales by the Sparch, where storyteller Rab Fulton was to get families in the mood for Halloween with some light-hearted tales.

Also planned for Saturday was a day of live, non-ticked music at Woodquay park from midday to 6pm, with a range of local musicians taking to the stage, including hit busking group, the renowned Galway Street Club.

On Sunday, Woodquay Park was to be a music hub for the second day running, with a Jazz concert from noon to 5pm, while over at the Small Crane the afternoon was to be given over to Trad music.

No word yet if any of these scheduled concerts and events will be rescheduled for later in the month.

For more of the different free, live events you can catch in Galway over the coming weeks in Eyes on the Horizon, check out https://cultureworks.ie/eyes-on-the-horizon/.

An Cheathrú Rua Digital Hub to double in size with funding announcement

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October 8, 2021

Galway Daily business An Cheathrú Rua Digital Hub to double in size with funding announcement

A digital hub supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in An Cheathrú Rua will double in size under capital funding announced today.

Údarás na Gaeltachta has approved €66,000 in capital funding for the gteic Digital and Innovation hub at An Cheathrú Rua Business Park.

The funding will be used to deliver a 385sqm extension to the hub in the coming year, creating four new offices with 10 desk spaces for entrepreneurs, small businesses, and concept developers.

In the new age of remote working, it can also provide and opportunity for people working from out of the office to set up in gteic, or provide larger companies with an opportunity to establish a satellite site or a second location for their businesses.

Anna Ní Ghallachair, Údarás na Gaeltachta Chairperson said “The growth and development of the gteic network is a significant source of encouragement for the Board of Údarás na Gaeltachta.

“The benefits of the gteic network are evident in the demand for workspaces, which is a very positive development for the Gaeltacht.”

Welcoming the announcement, Seán Ó Domhnaill, Manager, Comharchumann Mhic Dara said “We heartily welcome Údarás na Gaeltachta’s announcement that this facility, which has carved a niche for itself at the core of working life in An Cheathrú Rua, is to be extended.”

gteic@An Cheathrú Rua was opened in 2018 and is being managed by Comharchumann Mhic Dara on behalf of Údarás na Gaeltachta.

At present the gteic is almost at capacity and there is a need for further office spaces to seize the opportunities and change in practices which arose during COVID-19.

This expansion was one of the main enterprise recommendations in the new Action Plan for An Cheathrú Rua launched last week.

Seán Ó Domhnaill added that moving ahead with it is a “strong and significant” move for the community, which will provide great opportunities for An Cheathrú Rua.

Shane Walsh nominated for 2021 PwC All-Star awards

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October 8, 2021

Galway Daily sport Shane Walsh nominated for 2021 PwC All-Star awards — 11 February 2018; Shane Walsh of Galway in action against Jason Doherty of Mayo during the Allianz Football League Division 1 Round 3 match between Galway and Mayo at Pearse Stadium in Galway. Photo by Diarmuid Greene/Sportsfile

Galway’s Shane Walsh is among those nominated for the 2021 PwC football All-Star awards in the list of candidates announced today.

Walsh is one of 45 players put forward for the All-Star lineup from 11 different counties this year.

Tyrone is dominating the lost, no surprise from the most recent All-Ireland champions, with runners-up Mayo coming in second with eight nominations.

Walsh has been nominated among the forwards, where he is up against a slew of strong opposition, with Tyrone and Kerry dominating the list, but other players in the running from Mayo, Dublin, Monaghan, Kildare, Donegal, Armagh, and Clare.

Congratulating the nominees, Uachtarán CLG Larry McCarthy said there was high competition to make it into the list of 45 nominees after an “exceptional” football championship.

“This is a great honour and one that will be celebrated by the players; their families and clubs. The on-going support of PwC for this illustrious awards scheme is greatly appreciated and I look forward to the deliberations around the final 15 to add to the rich All-Star history”.

This year is special, not only because it was fantastic to see the footballers take back to the field as the pandemic began to ease, but also as it marks the 50th anniversary of the All-Star Awards.

Feargal O’Rourke, Managing Partner at PwC offered his congratulations to everyone who has been nominated for the 2021 awards.

“Their stellar performances have allowed us to enjoy a superb championship, despite the challenging year. These well-deserved nominations are a testament to their abilities, both individually and as part of a team.”

The nominations were chosen by a panel of Gaelic Games correspondents from across, print, radio, TV and digital media, chaired by Uachtarán CLG Larry McCarthy.

The PwC All-Stars for Football 2021 will be announced live on the night of the awards which will be held on December 10 in a televised ceremony.

The full list of nominees for the 2021 Football All-Star Awards is:

PwC All-Stars Football nominations 2021

Goalkeepers

Rob Hennelly (Mayo)

Rory Beggan (Monaghan)

Niall Morgan (Tyrone)

Defenders

Padraig Hampsey, Peter Harte, Michael McKernan, Ronan McNamee, Kieran McGeary, Conor Meyler Frank Burns (all Tyrone)

Stephen Coen, Patrick Durcan, Lee Keegan, Padraig Ó Hóra (all Mayo)

Tom O’Sullivan, Gavin White, Brian Ó Beaglaoich (all Kerry)

Michael Fitzsimons, Brian Howard (all Dublin)

Seán Meehan (Cork)

Ryan McAnespie (Monaghan)

Midfielders

Brian Kennedy, Con Kilpatrick (all Tyrone)

Matthew Ruane (Mayo)

David Moran (Kerry)

Oisín O’Neill (Armagh)

Brian Fenton (Dublin)

Forwards

Mattie Donnelly, Conor McKenna, Niall Sludden, Darren McCurry, Cathal McShane (all Tyrone)

David Clifford, Paudie Clifford, Sean O’Shea (all Kerry)

Tommy Conroy, Ryan O’Donoghue (all Mayo)

Cormac Costello, Ciaran Kilkenny (all Dublin)

Jack McCarron (Monaghan)

Daniel Flynn (Kildare)

Michael Langan (Donegal)

Rian O’Neill (Armagh)

Eoin Cleary (Clare)

Shane Walsh (Galway)

PwC GAA/GPA Footballer of the Year

Lee Keegan (Mayo),

Conor Meyler (Tyrone),

Kieran McGeary (Tyrone)

PwC GAA/GPA Young Footballer of the Year nominees

Matthew Tierney (Galway)

Oisin Mullin (Mayo)

Darragh Canavan (Tyrone)

Scam victims lost €15.6 million in 2020

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October 8, 2021

Galway Daily news Loughrea Gardaí warn of scam package delivery calls

The amount of money lost by scam victims last year went up by more than half last year, with a huge jump in the number of people targeted.

A report by FraudSMART found that there was an 80% jump in the number of fraudulent scams in 2020, with the average victim losing €5,300.

In total there was €15.6 million lost to fraudulent scams last year, 51% higher than in 2019. This came from a range of impersonation scams, romance scams and investment scams targeting vulnerable people.

Impersonation scams in particular have been on the rise during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 68% of people reporting being targeted by one in the year up to July 2021. Among 18-24 year olds, this rises to 84% being the target of at least one impersonation scam.

These scams occur when the fraudster pretends to be from a legitimate organisation or business to get sensitive information or money from the victim.

When asked who the fraudster was pretending to be, more than half (56%) said a government department or agency, including the Revenue Commissioners or Gardaí.

Just over a third said that scammer pretended to be from the bank, and one in five people were hit with a scam delivery company message.

Phone calls have been the most common source of this fraud (72%), with 37% of people saying they were contact by email, and 32% receiving scam text messages.

Brian Hayes, Chief Executive of Banking & Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI) said” “Fraudsters continuously update and adapt their tactics and tools.”

“They can quickly identify and exploit scam opportunities presented by evolving consumer and business behaviour as well as the ever-changing economic and social environment.”

“Banks use a range of measures such as encryption and continuous fraud monitoring to protect their customers and ensure every day payments can be made securely but it is important for everyone to protect themselves from fraud by being vigilant.”

Encouragingly, blanketing people with scam calls and texts this year seems to have backfired somewhat, leading to fewer people being taken in by the increasingly endless pestering.

The bulk of people, some 70%, say that they do nothing when contacted by scammers trying to threaten or frighten them into giving over money or personal information.

Just 6% of people reported clicking on a link in an email, some 3% gave over their personal or account details, and only 2% gave out bank or credit card details.

For further information and a host of fraud advice consumers and business can check out www.fraudsmart.ie.

Corrib Great Southern site should be CPO’ed for public student accommodation – PBP

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October 8, 2021

Galway Daily news Corrib Great Southern derelict levy

The derelict Corrib Great Southern hotel should be acquired with a compulsory purchase order to make way for publicly owned student housing on the site, Galway PBP have argued.

Preliminary works preparing for the demolition of the former Corrib Great Southern, which has been derelict and becoming more and more dilapidated for almost fifteen years, began at the end of August.

Adrian Curran of PBP Galway said that it is good to hear that the long derelict hotel is finally to be knocked after years as a “bone of contention” for the city, but that it is a long way from being useful ground.

“The recent news that the Comers are finally commencing demolition of the building has been met with great enthusiasm from TDs and councillors, however there is still no prospect of anything useful being done with the site in the foreseeable future.”

“It has taken many years and a lot of public pressure for the owners to even begin demolition. With no plans in place, it seems highly unlikely the site will be brought into use that is beneficial for the community any time soon.”

In the many years it has been left empty, the Corrib Great Southern has been a thorn in the side of locals; frequently a site of anti-social behaviour, and multiple fires, it has been called out as an ugly scar on the way into Galway.

In the past, the billionaire Comer Brothers, who own the site, have said that they intend to use it for apartments and student accommodation.

Curran said that with the “dire housing crisis” in Galway, the site should be acquired via CPO for publicly owned student accommodation.

“Its proximity to GMIT and the extreme difficulty students are having this year finding accommodation in Galway make this the obvious best use of the site.”

COVID-19: 1,207 new confirmed cases reported

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October 7, 2021

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

The Department of Health has today reported a further 1,207 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the State.

As of 8am today, 355 people with the disease are hospitalised in Ireland, of whom 69 are in ICU.

The five day moving average for coronavirus cases nationally is 1,052.

The number of patients hospitalised with COVID-19 in Galway has increased to 16 in the latest figures from the HSE.

On Wednesday night there were 15 confirmed cases at University Hospital Galway, up from 12 at the start of the week.

Calls for improved worker protections emerging from pandemic

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October 7, 2021

Galway Daily news Calls for improved worker protections emerging from pandemic — Cllr McNeilis and Deputy Alan Kelly with Forsa and SIPTU representatives to discuss issues facing workers in Local Employment Services

Now is the time to guarantee greater worker protections than existed before the pandemic, a Galway City Councillor has said.

Cllr Niall McNelis and Galway-West Labour Party, are marking World Day for Decent Work today, calling for action to address gaps in worker protections.

“As we emerge from the pandemic, it is important to recognise those whose jobs are not returning, and provide supports to enable them to engage in training and education, and to support job creation efforts,” Cllr McNelis said.

He added that there must be a path back to employment for people out of work, but that the “old normal” should not be the goal.

“I support my colleagues in Labour Women in their campaign for a universal, public, childcare scheme, which will address the high costs, and variable availability, of childcare in Ireland. Access to childcare is important to support gender equality and ensure access to work for all.”

The International Trade Union Confederation is calling for the creation of 575 million jobs worldwide by 2030, and for at least half of all informal jobs to be properly formalised in the same time.

Cllr McNelis said that people currently working in the gig economy need to be recognised as employees, and afforded the same protections as other workers.

“We need to legislate to ensure a right to meaningful representation by the unions chosen by workers.”

“Irish unions, such as Forsa, are currently working with employers to explore the potential of the 4-day week as a new standard for the 21st century,” Niall McNelis said.

“This has exciting implications for a new social contract, much as previous innovations like the 8-hour day and the 5-day week reshaped opportunities for leisure and recreation.”

“Similarly, it is heartening to see increasing recognition of the living wage as a benchmark for ensuring a decent minimum standard of living, one which supports social inclusion.”

Noting the global nature of the campaign for decent work, Cllr McNelis called on the Irish government to use its position in the EU, and in multilateral organisations such as the UN and ILO, to push for the adoption of strong worker protections, and conditions of employment.

Weather warning now in place ahead of heavy rain and possible flooding

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October 7, 2021

Galway Daily weather Weather warning for heavy rain and possible flooding now in effect

Met Éireann’s status yellow weather warning for rain is now in place in Galway and six other counties in the west and south of the country.

The warning, which came into force last night, is for prolonged rain with heavier bursts at times – with the heaviest and most persistent rain forecast for later tomorrow, Friday.

Met Éireann says that significant accumulations are possible in upland areas and there is a risk of localised flooding.

Galway City Council has reminded motorists to beware of spot flooding and to watch out for walkers and cyclists as they move about.

The status yellow warning is set to remain in place until 3am on Saturday morning.

Man jailed for unprovoked assault on woman

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October 7, 2021

Galway Daily courts Man charged in connection

A man received the maximum allowed jail sentence of one year in prison for a vicious and unprovoked assault on a woman in Galway City.

Martin Ward (29), of Fairgreen Hostel, Galway City, was convicted of assault causing harm on a woman at Galway District Court this week, after contesting the charge.

The woman, who was attacked by three men, sustained severe bruising to her face and across her body, after she was pushed to the ground by men who proceeded to kick and punch her while she was down.

The assault occurred behind Curry’s on the Headford Road on the evening of February 2 of this year.

The injured party said that she had been hanging out with a group of people and drinking. After two of them left to go to the shop, she was attacked by three others, who first shoved her to the ground.

While on the ground, she was kicked and punched repeatedly, including in the face. “I tried to defend myself, but I couldn’t,” she told the court. After a time, she managed to get away and get help.

The woman went to the garda station to make a complaint the next morning. Photos of her injuries were taken at the station, which were handed into the court. Judge Mary Fahy noted that the woman had two black eyes in the photos, one of which was “particularly bad”.

Garda Mark Kelly told the court that he assisted in the investigation. After Martin Ward was identified as a suspect, he was arrested and interviewed by him and Detective Garda Ronan Leonard.

Martin Ward denied the charge when interviewed, saying that he had been in Tuam with his father that day.

Giving his own evidence during the hearing, Ward said that he had come to the area in Galway City later that day, but only after the assault had already occurred. “I know I have a drink problem, but I’ve never hit a woman in my life,” he said.

Inspector Finbar Philpott said that Gardai had asked Ward’s father for a statement after he told them this, but that he declined to give one.

He asked Martin Ward why his father wouldn’t give a statement I’d they had been together as he claimed, suggesting that it was because he hadn’t been in Tuam.

The court heard that Ward had 117 previous criminal convictions, including two for assault. His most recent convictions were for producing an article capable of inflicting serious injury, and making threats to kill or cause serious harm.

Judge Fahy said that this was a case of two people giving competing accounts, but that she did not believe Ward’s evidence. “The pictures speak for themselves, they’re horrific injuries,” she said.

She convicted him of the assault, and decided to impose the maximum permitted sentence of 12 months.

At the District Court level, judges may only impose a maximum of 12 months for a single offence, or two years for multiple charges brought together.

The sentence was backdated to July 1, after the court tried to untangle how long Ward had already spent in custody on this matter, having gotten bail and then gone back into custody on different occasions.

NUI Galway announces first ever Irish Language Officer

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October 7, 2021

galway daily news nui galway first irish language officer

NUI Galway has appointed its first ever Irish Language Officer as part of the University’s Irish Language Strategy for the next four years.

Caroline Ní Fhlatharta, a native speaker from Connemara, joined NUI Galway over 16 years ago and has worked in various roles, including in Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge.

She will take up her new position as Irish Language Officer at the end of this month.

The University’s President, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, said the appointment reinforces the message that NUI Galway is fostering and developing an exemplary bilingual campus.

“The appointment of an Irish Language Officer is a key first step in our Straitéis don Ghaeilge and an act of recognition that reflects NUI Galway’s clear vision for the Irish language within university education,” he said.

“She has the full support of colleagues in the University in promoting the values set out in the Irish Language Strategy, increasing and strengthening the University’s Irish language community.”

Professor Pól Ó Dochartaigh, Deputy President and Registrar of NUI Galway, said the University’s strategy for the Irish language is an ambitious one.

“The appointment of Caroline Ní Fhlatharta as Irish Language Officer will support that, and our vision to develop and foster a sustainable bilingual environment and promote our language across University life and the NUI Galway community, as well as in the Gaeltacht and Irish language communities.”

The Irish Language Officer will have overall responsibility for driving the University’s vision for the Irish language and the role involves working on the University’s current Scéim Teanga and planning the next, as well as ensuring the University lives up to obligations for the Irish language.

Speaking about her appointment, Caroline Ní Fhlatharta said: “It is an honour to be given this opportunity and pioneering role as NUI Galway’s first Irish Language Officer and to start implementing the University’s Irish Language Strategy.

“I am looking forward to pouring my energy into improving the status and profile of the Irish language and on developing and encouraging language awareness and competency across the entire NUI Galway community.”

The Irish Language Officer will also oversee implementation of the new policy which requires all units to provide customer services through the medium of Irish; implement a scheme whereby the Irish language as a skillset is officially recognised in recruitment processes; and that 20% of professional staff will have the ability to conduct business through Irish.

Just over 5,000 people receive PUP this week in Galway

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October 7, 2021