Breastfeeding webinar for Galway mums-to-be

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October 3, 2021

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

There have been a further 1,051 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health today.

There were 319 people in the country hospitalised with COVID-19 as of this morning.

Of these patients, 60 have been admitted to intensive care units in serious condition.

In the past week, 146,128 people have been tested for coronavirus, with a positivity rate of 6.2%.

The latest hospital figures for Galway, as of Saturday night, show 17 confirmed cases in hospital here.

There are 15 patients at University Hospital Galway, up by three on the previous day, and two at Portiuncula Hospital.

Just one patient at University Hospital Galway has been admitted to the ICU.

Over 150,000 on waiting lists in Saolta hospitals

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October 3, 2021

Galway Daily news People in Galway urged to know their healthcare options for Bank Holiday

More than 152,000 people are on waiting lists in hospitals across the west and north-west of Ireland, IHCA figures show.

Figures from the Irish Hospital Consultants Association show that outpatient waiting lists in the region have increased by 72% since 2015.

In the Saolta Group, which includes UHG, Merlin Park Hospital, and Portiuncula Hospital, the number of patients waiting over a year for treatment has increased to over 6,000.

This is up from just over a third of that level six years ago, when 2,200 had waited a similar length in 2016.

Waiting lists in hospitals have been massively impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, as for much of 2020, hospitals deferred the majority of services, except for the most essential life-saving procedures.

In Saolta hospitals there are 7,700 people waiting for endoscopies according to the IHCA, 17,200 waiting in inpatient and day care services.

The doctors’ group also claims that 1 in 5 consultants positions are currently vacant at hospitals.

IHCA President, Professor Alan Irvine has said there is a risk that the “accumulated stress, health and general wellbeing” of the challenges posed by COVID-19 over the past year and a half, and the added burdens from the HSE cyberattack, will impact staff, and patient care.

Unless those empty positions are filled, it will continue to impact on healthcare targets, and prevent patients from accessing care the IHCA argues.

“Returning to the stressful, overstretched past is not an option if we are to avoid an even worse workforce crisis than was the case pre-Covid,” Alan Irvine said.

“The public places trust in our politicians to create a health service that works; while placing their trust in their doctors to deliver that service when they need it.”

“Unfortunately, the persistent lack of action by politicians means we are increasingly unable to treat our patients in a timely way and in the manner they deserve.”

Young community leaders honoured in Garda Youth Awards

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October 3, 2021

Galway Daily news Garda Youth Awards 2021

Fine young people across Galway who make an effort every day to be a positive part of their community have been honoured at the Garda Youth Awards.

Winners were honoured in four categories at the third annual Youth Awards, which were presented in line with COVID restrictions last month.

Despite restrictions due to the Covid pandemic, there was great interest in this year’s youth awards and a large number of entries were received.

The Community Safety Award went to the ‘Community of Wellness’, or COW group in Connemara, which came together to promote mental health.

The young people running the project brought together multiple local groups in Connemara to help them in this endeavor.

Large numbers of Fridge magnets were produced and distributed, while Zoom forums and other projects were enabled by the group to promote mental health.

The Individual Award winner was Danny Keane, who received his award at Murrough Regional Headquarters for proving an inspiration in his community, by providing entertainment and performing at many events in a very difficult year.

His unselfish work and volunteering turned a negative atmosphere in his community into one of positivity.

The Group Award winners in Tuam were honoured for their “What About Me” project, which produced a booklet for siblings with special needs, providing a tremendous resource to families and groups who are engaged with persons with disability on a daily basis.

The booklet received excellent recognition in the local community and beyond and the proceeds from the sale helped to provide assistance to a local primary school.

And lastly, the Special Achievement Award went to Shane Staunton in Loughrea, a tremendous young man who has encountered many difficulties throughout his life due to medical conditions.

However, this has not prevented Shane from breaking down barriers and meeting his goals. Shane is a leaving certificate student in St. Raphael’s College Loughrea and continually volunteers in his school.

His actions have had a positive impact on staff and students alike, which radiates throughout the whole school.

Caitríona hunts the truth about Frances death on Ros na Rún

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October 3, 2021

Galway daily television Caitríona hunts the truth about Frances death on Ros na Rún

Children in the line of fire in Ros na Rún as custody issues take centre stage, and Caitríona is hunting the truth about Frances death.

Mack, believing Dee may be sorry for the hurt she has caused, thinks there may be a way that they can share custody amicably, but this optimism takes a hit when he fids out she’s been talking behind his back.

He’s not the only one worried about the kids, as John Joe tries to stop Dee leaving Ros na Rún with Bláithín, but will Mack be pleased?

Colm, already feeling run down, demands that Caitríona stop pestering him about Frances’ death. But she knows that he knows something, and is hell-bent on finding the truth.

Berni wants to forget all that happened with Briain but Vanessa thinks she should seek professional help, but that takes a back seat when she gets the surprise of her life.

Tadhg goes from being thankful to Caoilfhionn for looking out for Áine, to angry that she went behind his back.

Catch all of the latest developments in Ros na Rún this week in a double feature omnibus on TG4 on Sunday evening.

Calls for Galway 2020 leadership to address finances with city council

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October 3, 2021

Galway daily news Call for further transparency on Galway 2020 finances

Calls have been made for the leadership of Galway 2020 to appear before the city council to address the project’s spending after the release of new reports.

Councillor Alan Cheevers said that the Chairman and Chief Executive of Galway 2020 should meet with elected representatives to discuss the annual financial report released this week.

Galway 2020’s own annual report for last year showed that €6.48 million was spent on the project last year, of which €4.3 million went towards programming costs; with the next most expensive items being Project Management at €964k, Staff Support Costs at €680k; and Office Costs at €422k.

The Comptroller and Auditor General’s latest report for the project, also released recently, states that 87% of the funding for the Capital of Culture ended up coming from the public purse strings by the end of 2020.

This compared with the 50% max Exchequer funding that was agreed on at the outset; though the report states that public funding was projected to account for 59%.

“Galway 2020 has not had the easiest journey from the start, but there are still questions to be answered,” Alan Cheevers said.

“I have requested that the Mayor put this on the meetings agenda to discuss with members of board.”

Councillor Cheevers asked why there has been no breakdown of costs in the annual report for individual events, redundancies of staff let go last year, legal expenditures, or costs from the cancellation of the opening ceremony.

“The total cost, to date, was €24.6 million for the project. We need more transparency and the public and taxpayers deserve to know it.”

The Comptroller’s report states that funding for the Capital of Culture included €14 million from the Department, of €15 million project, and €6 million in local authority funding compared with €12 million expected.

But the real shortfall came in the lack of regional, private sector, and other funding, after COVID-19 scattered plans for the delivery of the year.

Of €6.8 million that was expected to be raised through private sector funding, just €1 million was raised in the end, along with just €400k of the €5.5 million that was to come from other sources.

In the end these only accounted for 6% of the final funding for Galway 2020, where they were meant to cover more than a quarter of the cost.

COPE Galway’s Modh Eile refuge wins national community housing award

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October 2, 2021

Galway Daily news COPE Galway's Modh Eile wins national community housing award

COPE Galway’s newest domestic abuse refuge, Modh Eile House has achieved national recognition for its great social significance.

The refuge for woman and children fleeing domestic abuse in Galway has won the Irish Council for Social Housing Allianz Community Housing award for 2021.

Modh Eile opened in May of 2020 after a decade long search for a replacement for Waterside House, which the charity had been utilising for over 40 years.

The project was a huge investment by COPE, and the people of Galway, who contributed large amounts in donations for the construction and fitting out of the refuge.

“The building we have at Modh Eile House today would not have been possible without the support of the people of Galway’, said Martin O’Connor, Assistant CEO of COPE.

“Many individuals and businesses were involved throughout the planning for and funding of this project, and its design, construction and fit out. There are too many to mention here but they know who they are and we want to say a heartfelt thank you.”

The award was given at the Biennial National Social Housing Conference, held by the Irish Council for Social Housing, which took place between September 22 – 24.

Modh Eile House is on the site of the former Mercy Convent on Forster Street in Galway city centre, which formed part of the Magdalene Laundry in the city.

The Sisters of Mercy donated the former convent to COPE in 2014, specifically for the purpose of creating a new domestic abuse refuge, which was brought together over the next six years.

The house has nine units for individuals and families seeking a safe space, with units ranging in size between one and three bedrooms.

It offers extensive facilities for children of all ages, with a strong focus on facilitating therapeutic supports to address the trauma of experiencing and being witness to violence in their own homes.

There are office and meeting room facilities where women staying in the refuge receive support, and where support is offered to women who continue to live in their own homes in the community.

“Delivery of this new building was a significant achievement for COPE Galway on behalf of the people of Galway,” continued Martin O’Connor.

He praised the city council for raising 60% of the cost through the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage, and the “donations and contributions” from various individuals and philanthropic organisations which is continuing to make up the other 40% of the cost.

Popular Italian TV show to shine spotlight on Galway

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October 2, 2021

galway daily news television show in italy shining light on galway — Ornella Gamacchio, Tourism Ireland; cameraman Daniele Macis; makes-up artist Maria Grazia Mereu; host Licia Colò; cameraman Alessandro Antonino; and drone operator Davide Scarcella, during filming for Eden – Un pianeta da salvare. Picture: Eamon Ward

An Italian television channel is filming in Galway and along the Wild Atlantic Way this week.

La7 is filming two episodes for its popular prime time TV show Eden – Un pianeta da salvare, meaning Eden – A planet to save.

Each episode, which will air to an estimated 660,000 viewers in Italy, will showcase the county’s spectacular landscapes and nature, also focusing on sustainable tourism.

Filming is taking place at places such as Eyre Square, Salthill and Dunguaire Castle and the TV crew has enjoyed a guided tour of Saint Nicholas’ Collegiate Church and a visit to Galway City Museum.

They are also filming people involved in sustainable tourism.

Ornella Gamacchio, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Italy, said: “Tourism Ireland is delighted to support the filming of ‘Eden – Un pianeta da salvare’.

“With around 660,000 people across Italy expected to watch each episode, it’s a great way to shine a spotlight on Galway and the West of Ireland – highlighting our spectacular scenery, as well as sustainable tourism.

“It will remind viewers across Italy why Ireland is a great choice for a holiday.”

Tourism Ireland says that publicity and broadcasts like this are a key element of its programme of activity, to keep Ireland front and centre in the minds of future visitors from Italy and elsewhere around the world, to rebuild tourism to Ireland.

COVID-19: 1,586 new cases notified in Ireland

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October 2, 2021

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

There have been a further 1,586 new cases of COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health today.

As of this morning, there are 298 people in Ireland hospitalised with COVID.

Of these patients, 56 are being treated in the ICU in serious condition.

Dr Tony Holohan said that the number of daily cases has “stabilised” in recent weeks, and that there have been “encouraging indicators” in the same time.

Among primary school children aged 5 to 12 years old, there was an increase in cases as a result of stepped up testing in the first week or so back in school, but this has now fallen again, as it was “predicted and expected” to.

“That’s exactly what we saw in the earlier stages of the pandemic. It continues to show that the school environment, and particularly the classroom environment, is a safe and appropriate environment”.

Measures that have been put in place to keep children safe are doing so, Tony Holohan said, keeping schools open.

Galway-based Vetex and NUIG shortlisted for KTI Impact Award

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October 2, 2021

GALWAY daily news kti awards nui galway vetex nominated for award

Galway-based Vetex and NUI Galway have been shortlisted in the Commercialisation Impact Award category of Knowledge Transfer Ireland’s (KTI) 2021 Impact Awards.

The annual awards recognise achievements in knowledge transfer and the commercialisation of publicly funded research nationwide.

The awards pay tribute to the work of those within Ireland’s Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) around the country who provide a vital link between industry and academic research.

KTI will announce the winners on 26 November at a virtual ceremony from Croke Park.

The Commercialisation Impact Award category recognises successful outcomes from licensing rights to technology or intellectual property or through the creation of a spinout company.

Spun out from NUI Galway in 2015 to develop technology to addresses the needs identified in the management of venous clots, Vetex was acquired by Surmodics in a deal worth almost €40m this year.

The company reached a major milestone in December 2020, gaining FDA regulatory approval for its clot removal product ‘ReVene’.

Alison Campbell, Knowledge Transfer Ireland Director, said that it is hugely encouraging to see the breadth of activity on show for this year’s Impact Awards.

“The enduring commitment we see from industry to work with Irish researchers sends a positive message about the engagement model we have here in Ireland and the impact from spinout companies emerging from the system is really impressive.

“That is testament to the strength of the Irish knowledge transfer offices and the unique system of supports that we have in the country.

“I’ve been particularly pleased to see equity, diversity and inclusion reflected in so many of the submissions this year and I’m optimistic that this trend will continue.

“I wish all our shortlisted entries the best of luck and look forward to unveiling the winners in November.”

Frighteningly Fantastic Horror Films to Watch This Halloween

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Angela Mc Bride

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October 2, 2021

Are you after some fantastic horror films to watch this Halloween? Of course, you are. In which case, here are five recommendations you will want to consider.

Remains

While the 2011 post-apocalyptic horror movie Remains received some negative reviews, it is actually much better than many have made out. If you want a frightening film that is simply good fun, Remains remains a good choice. It is based on the cult graphic novel of the same name by Steve Niles. The story takes place in the aftermath of a zombie apocalypse. A group of survivors congregate at the ruins of a Nevada casino and do everything they can to stop the flesh-eaters from turning them into the walking dead. If you are worried that you might encounter a zombie attack the next time you visit a casino, maybe you should stick to games you can play at an online casino and avoid watching Remains! On the other hand, if you are a fan of zombie flicks, you should check out this neat little movie.

The Amityville Horror

There is something about 1970s horror films that makes them eerier than movies made in other eras, and the 1979 classic The Amityville Horror is no exception. The Oscar-winning score by composer Lalo Schifrin certainly helps to provide an extra layer of spookiness, but with fantastic performances, great direction, and a compelling story, there is much about The Amityville Horror that makes it so good. The film is also elevated to another level when you learn that it is based on a true story. The plot follows a young couple moving into their new house and discovering supernatural forces are waiting to play havoc with their lives.

Suspiria

If you have not yet seen the cult Italian film Suspiria, you are in for a terrifyingly delightful surprise. The 1977 supernatural horror movie is partially based on an 1845 essay by Thomas De Quincey. The plot of the film follows a ballet student who transfers to a prestigious German dance academy. After a series of ugly murders take place, the protagonist Jessica Harper realises that the academy is involved. Even so, Harper is not ready for the supernatural horrors that she finds within the academy’s walls.

Halloween

The films in the Halloween franchise have become more confusing than the plot of Inception. But the original 1978 movie is a true horror classic, and it is almost mandatory that you watch it over the Halloween period. Directed by the master of the genre, John Carpenter, Halloween tells the story of a murderous patient called Michael Myers who escapes a sanitorium after being locked up for fifteen years for killing his teenage sister when he was only six years old. Yes, Myers has mental issues for sure. Upon his escape, he returns to his hometown and takes an interest in a female babysitter, played by Jamie Lee Curtis, and her friends on the night of Halloween.

The Blair Witch Project

The Blair Witch Project has much to answer for. It is single-handedly responsible for a whole generation of awful shaky-camcorder-filmed found-footage movies. However, The Blair Witch Project still remains one of the best horror films of all time. If you want to guarantee you will jump in your seat when watching a film, put on The Blair Witch Project. The supernatural horror film was groundbreaking when it came out in 1999. If you have yet to see it, the premise is this. Three student filmmakers head into the woods of Black Hills to film a documentary about the local legend known as the Blair Witch. Only, the three disappear. But the footage remains, and that is what you watch as the viewer.

Traffic calming measures planned for Doughiska and downtown

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October 2, 2021

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

Galway City Council has announced plans for traffic calming works in Doughiska and along the Eglinton Canal to improve travel for pedestrians and bus services.

Public notice has been given this week of upgrades to the Doughiska Road South, Canal Street Upper, and Canal Street Lower.

In Doughiska the proposed upgrade works include:

Traffic light controlled raised junction at junction of Doughiska Road South / Ros Caoin.
Traffic light controlled raised pedestrian crossings at Doughiska Road South (L-5036).
Raised junction treatments along Doughiska Road South at: Castlegar GAA Club, Durbhan Road, Durling Road, Caiseal Cam, Garraí Sheáin, Roscam Park, Radharc, and Chaisleáin.
Upgrade to existing and provision of new footpaths / surfaces along the Doughiska Road South (L-5036).
Provision of new cycle lanes / tracks along the Doughiska Road South (L-5036).
Provision of appropriate traffic signs and road markings.

On the far side of the city, works on both Canal Roads between Dominick Street and University Road will focus on new pedestrian crossings and work on footpaths.

Raised junction entry at junction of University Road / Canal Road Upper (R-863 / L-51012).
Traffic light / Belisha Beacon controlled raised pedestrian crossing at Presentation Road (L-5101).
Traffic light / Belisha Beacon controlled raised pedestrian crossing at New Road (L-5116).
Traffic light/ Belisha Beacon controlled raised pedestrian crossing at Dominick Street Upper / Dominick Street Lower/ Raven Terrace (L-5108, L-5103, L-5107).
Traffic light / Belisha Beacon controlled raised pedestrian crossing at Fr. Griffin Road / Raven Terrace / Claddagh Quay (R-336, L-5107, L-5061).
Upgrade to existing and provision of new footpaths / surfaces on the Canal Road Upper (L-51012) and Canal Road Lower (L-51011).
Provision of appropriate traffic signs and road markings.

Plans and drawings of both of these works will be available for viewing at City Hall during business hours until October 29, with public submissions accepted up to 4pm that day.

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

Two COVID patients in the ICU in Galway

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October 2, 2021

There are just two COVID-19 patients in Galway who are being treated in the ICU according to the latest figures.

Two confirmed cases were in the intensive care unit at University Hospital Galway as of Friday evening, and none at Portiuncula, one fewer than the previous day.

Overall, the number of confirmed cases in Galway’s hospitals has remained level at 14 patients.

Twelve of these cases are at University Hospital Galway, and two are at Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe.

Nationwide there were 284 patients hospitalised with COVID in Ireland as of Friday evening, of whom 59 are in the ICU.

Ireland’s incidence rate and level of hospitalisations has remained steady in recent weeks, but with the success of the vaccination campaign, deaths have fallen dramatically.

The HPSC has said that between April and September, there were no deaths among vaccinated adults under the age of 50.

Of the 301 COVID related deaths recorded in that period, 103 were breakthrough cases in adults who were vaccinated, the bulk of whom had underlying conditions.

There have now been 7,225,789 dose of vaccine administered in Ireland, with 3,687,818 people now fully vaccinated.

Appeal dropped against 62 hectare Tuam solar farm

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October 2, 2021

Galway Daily news Planning permission sought for south Galway solar farm

Plans for a 62 hectare solar farm can proceed as approved, as an appeal to An Bord Pleanála against the project has been withdrawn.

Galway County Council approved Tuam Energy Park’s plans for a solar farm south of the town in the townlands of Cloontoa, Rinkippeen, Cloonascragh, Barnacurragh and Ballykeaghra last April.

Two appeals were lodged with An Bord Pleanála by individuals, but one of those was declared invalid, and the second was withdrawn on September 13.

The appeal by an adjacent landowner raised concerns about the possibility of increased flooding during times of heavy rain due to the shallow basin of the River Suileen.

It also questioned whether the developer and county council has taken into consideration any potential impact this project could have on the Tuam Outer Bypass.

The solar farm consist of rows of ground mounted solar panels approximately three to four metres apart, in a fixed, south facing position, and rising no more than 3.2m above the terrain.

Other works in the project would include three substation buildings spread around the site, 20 smaller medium voltage (MV) substations, perimeter fencing, and one communications pole/weather station with satellite dish, which will be approximately 4m in height.

Planning permission had been granted by the county council with 16 conditions attached.

Among those are a number of safety precautions to protect the adjacent railway line during construction, and to ensure that the solar farm’s operation doesn’t affect railway traffic.

Disruption to Galway – Dublin & Limerick rail travel this weekend

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October 2, 2021

Considerable disruption is expected to rail travel between Galway and Dublin this weekend due to line improvement works taking place.

Engineering works will be taking place on the lines between Lisduff and Thurles and between Hazelhatch and Newbridge on Saturday and Sunday.

The following trains, mainly between Galway and Dublin, but also between Galway and Limerick, will be affected according to the notice by Irish Rail.

09:20 Limerick to Galway is deferred to 09:25hrs
19:50 Limerick to Galway is deferred to 19:58hrs
17:30 Heuston to Galway will be bus transfers from Heuston to Tullamore and Athlone, second bus transfer from Heuston to Clara and Athlone, third bus transfer from Portarlington to Tullamore and Athlone, train at 19:45hrs from Athlone to Galway
18:30 Heuston to Galway is cancelled
19:35 Heuston to Galway will be bus transfers direct from Heuston to Athlone, second bus transfer from Heuston to Tullamore and Athlone, third bus transfer from Portarlington to Tullamore and Athlone, train at 21:35hrs from Athlone to Galway
15:05 Galway to Heuston will operate by train to Athlone only, bus transfers direct from Athlone to Heuston, second bus transfer from Athlone to Clara, Tullamore, Portarlington, Kildare, Newbridge and Heuston
17:20 Galway to Heuston will operate by train to Athlone only, bus transfers direct from Athlone to Heuston, second bus transfer from Athlone to Tullamore, Portarlington, Kildare, Newbridge and Heuston
19:20 Galway to Heuston will operate by train to Athlone only, bus transfers direct from Athlone to Heuston, second bus transfer from Athlone to Clara, Tullamore, Portarlington, Monasterevin, Kildare, Newbridge, Sallins and Heuston

The cancellation of the 18:30 Heuston to Galway train will also take place on November 6 & 20, as well as December 4 due to scheduled engineering works.

The disruption to train services on Sunday, September 3 will be considerably lighter, with just three trains affected in the morning.

08:00 Heuston to Galway will be bus transfers from Heuston to Kildare, train at 08:55hrs from Kildare to Galway
11:40 Heuston to Galway will not serve Clara
11:00 Galway to Heuston is deferred to 11:35hrs

For a full list of available services on your day of travel, please check Irish Rail’s Journey Planner.

COVID-19: 1,059 more cases reported today

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October 1, 2021

There have been a further 1,059 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health today.

As of this morning there were 308 COVID patients hospitalised in Ireland. Of these, 59 are in the intensive care unit.

Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, said that people have expressed concerns about how to maintain safe social life and physical activities moving into the winter period.

“We are all familiar with the measures that will continue to keep us safe from COVID-19,” Tony Holohan said, adding that vaccination remains the best means of protection, including against being hospitalised.

“There are still some people who haven’t yet taken up the opportunity of vaccination, or who have delayed receiving a second dose for various reasons.”

“I strongly encourage anyone who is in this position to ensure they get fully vaccinated as soon as possible in order to best protect themselves and those around them.”

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has said that there have been no deaths related to COVID among people who are vaccinated, and under 50 years old.

Galway student helping people with cerebral palsy write, draw, and more

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October 1, 2021

Galway Daily news Galway student helping people cerebral palsy write, draw, and more

One Galway student has received international attention for her work that helps people with Cerebral Palsy to communicate in writing and express themselves through art.

McKella Daly of GMIT has created a specialised handheld device, specifically crafted with cerebral palsy in mind, that assists it users in writing, drawing, and painting.

For the social importance of her work, which would be of great interest to any of the estimated 17 million people in the world it could help, McKella’s device ‘Saor’ has been shortlisted in this year’s ArtsThread Global Graduate Design Show in collaboration with Gucci.

Her project is shortlisted in the “Design for Social Good, Product Design and Industrial Design” category of the international competition.

Alex Brownless, Co-Founder ArtsThread, says: “Mckella has done incredibly well to be one of the 500 shortlisted out of a total of 5211 entries worldwide from over 600 creative higher education institutions!”

Saor, meaning “free” as Gaeilge, has a unique circular grip that allows users to hold the product in a way that does not affect the clenched shape of their hand caused by their CP.

The silicone padding allows for comfort during extended periods of use and it has a spring-loaded joint to change the orientation of the pen.

It allows users to use different materials and has a “V” shaped slot which stops the pen slipping out of position.

This isn’t the first time that the potential value of McKella’s work has been recognised; just last month McKella won a ‘Highly Commended’ Award for the device at the European Product Design Awards.

Speaking about her own work, McKella said that she wanted to create something that would help people with cerebral palsy to “express themselves, gain independence, take part in occupational therapy, take part in activities and allow them more freedom” by letting them write, draw, and paint.

“One of the most rewarding experiences I had was during the testing phase of my final year project where a 10-year-old boy, Liam, tested one of my prototypes and was able to write his name for the first time in his life.”

Seeing the delight on the faces of Liam and his family when this happened made all the work up to that point worthwhile she added.

McKella said that she is honoured to have been shortlisted for ArtsThread, and delighted to take part in such an “esteemed show”.

The final stages of the judging for these awards will involve a public vote, with people to cast votes until October 13, and winners to be announced on October 18.

Pilot heart health service shows what Sláintecare can deliver, says Senator Kyne

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October 1, 2021

Galway Daily news Galway Senator condemns "rotten, corrupt" saga at Inland Fisheries Ireland

The success of a heart failure diagnostic and care service in Galway is an example of what Sláintecare can deliver, Galway senator Seán Kyne has said.

University Hospital Galway is running the community-based service with Primary Care Centres in Tuam, Gort, Claremorris and Galway City, and it has reduced waiting lists from six months to just six weeks.

GPs can refer their patients with suspected heart failure directly to the service for tests and diagnosis, making it easier for patients to access routine care.

“This Sláintecare programme gives direct access for GPs to diagnostics, keeping patients away from a hospital setting for as long as possible thus leading to less stress and saving time and expense for patients,” said the Fine Gael senator.

“This is very welcome at a time when GUH is under severe pressure and when staff and patients have to deal with very difficult conditions in a completely inadequate temporary Emergency Department.

“The results of this service show what can be done when you combine the experience of staff and the facilities of the Primary Care Centres.”

Senator Kyne said that 95% of patients were satisfied with the service, over 1000 patients have been tested through this service and over half had an appointment within two weeks of referral.

“This is why there is broad support for the Sláintecare concept and it provides evidence that, if resourced, led and supported, Sláintecare can be the basis for a successful health service.”

JP McMahon to host another virtual cookery course for kids

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October 1, 2021

galway daily news jp mcmahon cookery class for kids

Galway chef and restaurateur JP McMahon will be hosting a new virtual cookery class for children beginning at the end of this month.

The owner and chef of Michelin-starred Aniar restaurant launched an eight-week cookery course for kids earlier this year, when over 200 children learned about food and became better chefs.

The eight-week autumn course begins on Saturday 30 October and is ideal for children and teenagers aged between 9 and 16 who are already showing talent in the kitchen.

It is also a fantastic course for those that need a little encouragement as the course will not only teach kids how to cook traditional meals and recipes, but also must-know culinary skills along the way.

The course will support kids to build an increased understanding of Irish produce and appreciation for different flavours through a relaxed and fun format.

Budding chefs will learn some crowd-pleasing foods including breads like Waterford blaas and treacle scones, as well as family favourites like meatballs, ratatouille and beef ragout.

Also on the menu are more adventurous dishes like salmon teriyaki with Catalan spinach, along with desserts like profiteroles and chocolate fudge cake.

They will even learn how to prepare a Christmas feast, from turkey with pork and apple stuffing and ham cooked in stout and hay, to mince pies and Tiramisu.

As parental supervision is advised for kids under 12, the classes also offer parents the chance to bond with their kids over everyone’s favourite talking point – food!

Sessions will be held virtually via Zoom on Saturday or Sunday mornings from 11.00am to 1.00pm.

Students have the option of cooking along with JP or tuning into the class later and putting the learnings into practice on their own when it has finished.

The Aniar 8-week Virtual Cookery Course for Kids starts on Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st October.

Pre-book to attend the full course for €250 or choose to attend individual classes for €35 per session, with ingredients list and required tools shared in advance.

Plus all participants will be sent a certificate and an Aniar apron on completion of the 8-week course.

For more information and bookings on all courses, including the next Adult’s Cookery Course starting on 1st November, visit aniarrestaurant.ie

Three Galway areas record increase in COVID rates

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October 1, 2021