Browne Doorway at Eyre Square lights up gold for Childhood Cancer Foundation

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September 1, 2021

galway daily news Vaccine booster clinic continuing today for people in their 50s

Vaccination centres in the West and North-West have now administered over half a million vaccines since the first centre opened earlier this year.

The first vaccines in Galway were administered at UHG last December, with the vaccination centre at Ballybrit opening in late February.

Paul Hooton, Saolta Executive Lead for the rollout of the vaccination programme in the West and North West, paid tribute to the incredible team of staff in all of the region’s vaccination centres.

He thanked the vaccinators, pharmacists, site managers, registration and administration staff, student nurses and the many support staff including security, cleaners and wellness checkers.

“We are also indebted to the members of the Defence Forces who have provided invaluable and immeasurable support to the vaccination programme, along with the many volunteers from the Civil Defence, Order of Malta, St John Ambulance and the Irish Red Cross,” said Paul Hooton.

“Staff from LYIT in Letterkenny also ran a very successful satellite vaccination centre in Carndonagh, County Donegal up until last week and are currently working towards opening a new satellite centre in Burtonport.

“We also ran a satellite centre in Clifden over the summer months supported by staff from the Ballybrit centre in Galway and this week we opened a satellite centre in Belmullet, supported by staff from the Breaffy House Resort vaccination centre.”

Paul Hooton said that there have been many challenges along the way, but everyone involved stepped up and excelled.

“To all the people of Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon, Mayo and Galway, I would like to say thank you for your overwhelming support and in the early days for your patience when we were still figuring out the queueing system and timings. Your co-operation was very much appreciated.

“Being able to provide the COVID-19 vaccine to so many people and to play some role in moving on from the pandemic has been an absolute privilege.

“There are still plenty of opportunities to get the vaccine and we are running walk-in clinics every week to make it as easy as possible.”

Galway city’s newest coffee shop opens its doors!

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September 1, 2021

galway daily news coffee shop galway city

Galway’s newest coffee shop PLÁMÁS has opened its doors on Dominick Street in the city’s Westend, with a gallery space to promote local artists and craftspeople.

PLÁMÁS means ‘to flatter’ as Gaeilge, and the new coffee shop, which opened today, hopes to capture the craic, mischief, and community spirit of Galway.

It is located at 6 Dominick Street Upper in a building which was once a bakery in the 50s and 60s, before being used as office space in recent years.

The team behind PLÁMÁS chose to set up shop on Dominick Street as they say the vibe and ethos of the area is exactly what they hope to capture in this new space.

In the gallery area, people will find stunning photography prints as part of The Galway Photography Project, locally designed streetwear from Story Tailors, books about and inspired by Galway, perfect gifts for the Galway lover in your life and much more.

PLÁMÁS will be open 8am to 5pm between Tuesday and Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sundays.

Pandemic Unemployment claims continue to fall in Galway

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September 1, 2021

Galway Daily news Details announced for reopened Pandemic Unemployment scheme

The number of people on the pandemic unemployment payment in Galway has continued to decline steadily to 7,608 recipients this week.

There are 7,608 people in Galway receiving PUP this week, 292 fewer than last week.

Nationwide the number of people on Pandemic Unemployment is down by about 6,000 this week, to 143,606.

Minister Heather Humphreys said “Thanks to the success of the vaccination programme and the efforts made by people all over the country in observing public health guidelines the Government was able to publish its Roadmap for the relaxation of all restrictions between now and October.”

“This is very positive news and we expect to see even more people return to work in coming weeks.”

The greatest reduction this week is in the hospitality sector, where 1,895 people working in food and accommodation businesses have returned to work.

The Cabinet signed off on plans yesterday to end all COVID-19 public health restrictions on a phase basis by October 22.

Starting from this month the pandemic unemployment payment will be gradually reduced over six months, until its planned end date next February.

The PUP figures published this week are in addition to the 184,213 people who were on the Live Register at the end of July.

Green light for restaurant and bakery in vacant Salthill property

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September 1, 2021

Galway Daily news Plans for restaurant & bakery in vacant Salthill property

Planning permission has been granted to convert a vacant property on the waterfront in Salthill into a pizzeria restaurant and bakery.

The city council has approved plans to convert the ground floor of 3 Waterfront, Sallthill Road Upper from its current derelict state.

The area had previously served as a bar & restaurant with a lounge, and the reception area to holiday apartments.

Other works would involve minor alterations to the front elevation, along with an external seating area with a retractable awning.

It was noted that as the area had previously been approved for a bar and restaurant, there would be no need from the already permitted car parking requirement.

A Flood Risk Assessment was also carried out and submitted when the city council requested further information from the developer in July. This said that the property is approximately 60m from the shoreline in Salthill, and is not considered at risk of flooding.

The development was granted planning permission with seven conditions attached. The council stipulated that any awnings and wind barriers for the outdoor seating must be of canvas, with the canopy not obscuring the architectural qualities of the building.

Call for new Roscam estates access road to tackle congestion

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September 1, 2021

Galway Daily news Call for new Roscam estates access road to tackle congestion

A new access road to the Roscam Estates is needed to tackle traffic congestion in the area a Galway City Councillor has said.

There is currently only a single access point at the rear of the Roscam estates, leading onto the Lower Doughiska Road.

This has been the source of considerable traffic congestion over the past two years Councillor Alan Cheevers has said.

He said that a second access point is needed for cars, and called on the city council to seek funding from the Department of Transport for this.

“We have seen more houses constructed in the Roscam area and occupied in last couple of months, lending to extra cars coming out of estate,” Cllr Cheevers said.

He also suggested that this project would also lend itself to creating cycle lanes and pathways connecting to Oranmore train station.

COVID-19: 1,382 cases reported today

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August 31, 2021

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

There have been a further 1,382 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health today.

As of this morning the number of patients being treated for COVID-19 in hospital was 355.

Of these, there are 54 patients in serious condition admitted to the ICU.

Daily case number may change in the future when data is validated and reviewed.

Walk-in vaccination clinics for anyone aged 12 years or older are continuing in Galway City this week.

People can go get their Pfizer vaccine shot without an appointment at the Ballybrit Racecourse centre this Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Ballinasloe protests against cancellation of Bus Éireann route

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August 31, 2021

galway daily news ballinasloe protest bus éireann

There was a strong turnout at a protest in Ballinasloe against the axing of Bus Éireann’s 20X20 route, with many in attendance describing the cancellation of the service as ‘unacceptable’.

Around 80 people attended the protest at Ballinasloe’s Fairgreen including local councillors, national representatives and the Active Retirement Group.

“The message is loud and clear to government,” said Independent Cllr Evelyn Parsons who attended the protest on Friday.

“It is totally unacceptable to reduce our bus services, travel and companion passes at any time, let alone during a pandemic when patients and staff have increased need of attendance at hospital services and appointments.”

Cllr Tim Broderick said that it also affects those without other transport options, ignoring huge areas along the route which serviced rural towns villages, connecting people to hospital and other transport services.

Deputy Denis Naughten, who has raised this issue with the NTA, added: “There is no doubt this calls into question how committed government is to its own environmental policies, i.e. car reduction, rural regeneration and the public health of people in rural Ireland.”

Connacht Rugby renews sponsorship with Bank of Ireland

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August 31, 2021

Galway Daily rugby Connacht Rugby renews sponsorship with Bank of Ireland

Connacht Rugby and Bank of Ireland have renewed their sponsorship deal for two seasons, and expanded it to include the senior women’s team.

The Bank of Ireland logo will be displayed on the rear of the men’s and women’s senior team jerseys.

BOI is backing rugby in the province in turn with support for youth and adult club championships.

Speaking about the partnership, Connacht’s Head of Commercial and Marketing Philip Patterson said, “Bank of Ireland have been a wonderful supporter of rugby in the West of Ireland and I’m delighted that both parties have agreed an extension of our partnership.”

“Supporters are well used to seeing the logo on the back of the men’s and women’s jerseys, and their support of Adult and Youth club competitions is also a significant boost. We look forward to continuing to grow our partnership in the years ahead.”

Marie Meehan Head of Bank of Ireland Galway said that they were delighted to extend their partnership with Connacht Rugby for another two seasons.

“We’ve been working together to make sure we can support them in their huge ambitions for their whole community.”

“As a result, we will now be supporting the women’s team, expanding our current sponsorship of the men’s game, and sponsoring all club and community tournaments across Connacht.”

The Connacht Women’s team is now in the thick of the Vodafone Interprovincial Championship, live on tv for the first time.

While the men’s senior team is working through their pre-season friendlies before the start of the United Rugby Championship in late September.

Thousands raised for Headford community playground repairs

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August 31, 2021

galway daily news headford community playground

Over €2,000 has been raised so far in a fundraiser which will help secure the future of the community playground in Headford.

The playground, which sits on the grounds of Moyne Villa FC, is a much-loved local amenity – but it is in need of urgent repair and restoration.

Over the years, annual church gate collections have supported the ongoing costs of the playground, such as insurance and equipment repair.

But due to COVID restrictions, these fundraisers have not been possible and the club cannot rely on the church collection to fund repairs and maintenance.

The organisers of the GoFundMe campaign have set a target of €5,000 – and they are closing in on the halfway mark in just a few days.

They say that children are going to benefit the most from the money raised, as they will be able to play in a safer environment once the works are complete.

The last fundraiser raised €500 for a basket swing which was broken at the time but the organisers say that they are now faced with a more serious situation.

Any extra money will be spent on painting and sprucing up signs.

Donate to the fundraiser on the GoFundMe page HERE.

Tasty opportunity for Galway food and drinks start-ups

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August 31, 2021

galway daily news food and drinks programme for start-ups

Food Works has announced it is looking for high potential, innovative and export-driven food and drink start-ups from Galway to join their next accelerator programme.

Galway’s Micil Distillery is among more than 100 companies that have already completed the programme since it began in 2012.

Participating start-ups will be supported to get investor ready with a comprehensive business plan focused on them scaling internationally.

Food Works is a collaborative tri-agency initiative run by Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, with participants also being eligible to apply for feasibility grant funding of up to €35,000 through Enterprise Ireland.

The unique food and drink entrepreneurship programme runs annually over ten months from March to December.

It includes workshops with national and international industry experts across various disciplines such as strategy, finance, product development, marketing and other areas. Start-ups also receive customised support from business advisors, facilitated peer-to-peer learning and networking opportunities across the industry – at home and abroad.

Tara McCarthy, CEO Bord Bia described the ideal candidates for the next programme as being ambitious and innovative, with the ability to scale and the potential to export.

“Food Works has been feeding ambition and innovation among Ireland’s food and drink entrepreneurs for almost 10 years, with proven success in supporting Irish start-ups to succeed.

“The programme aims to support and assist rising stars to achieve their ambitions in domestic and international markets, all the time working toward enhancing the global positioning of Ireland’s food and drink sector.

“Irish food products are enjoying a growing reputation internationally coupled with strong demand. Last year, despite significant disruption to normal market operation, Irish food, drink, and horticulture exports were valued at over €13bn,” said Tara.

Brian and Rachel Nolan, founders of Nobó, the popular dairy free ice-cream and chocolate brand, credit the programme with their early acceleration and direction.

“Food Works has been a vital part of our success, helping to set us up for growth,” said Brian Nolan.

“Our unique dairy free ice cream was a new concept, and the support and expertise we received from Food Works was a key factor in helping us take it from local farmers markets to supermarket shelves at home and abroad.

“Our ice cream and chocolate are now available in over 750 stores, across Ireland, Netherlands, and Canada, where we will also launch into Wholefoods this September.”

The three state agencies, Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, work jointly to deliver the Food Works programme.

Bord Bia provides strategic insight and support, assisting participating companies’ in their understanding of consumers, competitors, trends, opportunities and both domestic and international markets.

Enterprise Ireland is responsible for the development and growth of Irish enterprises in global markets.

Its Food Division focusses on supporting high potential food and drink companies on developing their export sales.

Meanwhile, Teagasc provides integrated research, technical advice, and training services. Its state-of-the-art food centres in Dublin and Cork provide participants with access to facilities, equipment, and specialist expertise.

The closing date for applications for the 2022 programme is 3 December 2021. Full details and an application form are available at FoodWorksIreland.ie

Revenue warns of fresh scam phone calls

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August 31, 2021

Galway Daily news Loughrea Gardaí warn of scam package delivery calls

The Revenue Commissioners has issued a fresh warning against recent cases of scam phone calls about phony tax issues.

There have been reported scams of fraudsters calling and saying they are from the Revenue in order to try and get financial information from people.

Scammers may try to get your banking or personal details by telling you that you are due a tax refund, that you owe a tax bill, or some other such garbage.

The Revenue Commissioners will never seek personal information via a telephone call or text message, and any attempt to do so is likely a scam.

If you receive a telephone call purporting to be from Revenue about which you have any doubts, particularly if the call is unexpected, you should contact your Revenue Office.

Anyone who has mistakenly given sensitive personal information in response to one of these calls should inform the Gardaí, as well as their bank or credit card company.

Plans submitted for Loughrea apartment building

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August 31, 2021

Galway Daily news Plans refused for Loughrea apartment building

Planning permission is being sought for the construction of an apartment building on a vacant site in downtown Loughrea.

Plans have been submitted to the city council by T. W. Trustees for the construction of a two storey apartment building on Barrack Street, Loughrea, with a total of six apartments.

The site of the proposed apartment building is a vacant patch of land midway down Barrack Street, next to a block of terraced houses.

“On completion the terrace will have a ‘bookend’ detached structure at either end provided by the existing protected 1930’s decorative style structure in white stucco and the proposed apartment building,” the design statement reads.

A Natura Impact Statement, and Conservation Report, were submitted with this application due to the location of the site.

A decision on this planning application is due from Galway County Council by September 20 of this year.

Water conservation restrictions introduced in Glenamaddy

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August 31, 2021

Galway Daily news Latest EPA report shows one Galway public water supply deemed "at-risk"

People living in and around Glenamaddy will be affected by water conservation restrictions introduced this week.

Night water restrictions have been brought in as of Monday, and are currently scheduled to remain in place for the remainder of the week, until Friday September 3.

The restrictions will be in place from 10pm each night, until 8am the following morning.

These measures after homes and businesses in Glenamaddy and surrounding areas, including the Knockmaskehill Group Water Scheme.

Galway County Council said that these water conservation measures have been introduced due to shortages in the public water supply.

In each case, it may take 2-3 hours after the restrictions have ended before people’s full water supply is restored as the network refills.

COVID cases rise at UHG, but intensive care numbers down

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August 31, 2021

The number of COVID-19 patients at University Hospital Galway has climbed back to the highest level seen in the recent surge.

There were 35 confirmed cases at UHG as of 8pm on Monday night, up six from 29 cases the day before.

But the number of COVID patients in the ICU in Galway has continued to fall slowly, down by one person to five at the latest count.

At Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe there are five confirmed cases, of whom one is in the intensive care unit.

Nationwide there were 344 cases of COVID-19 in Irish hospitals as of Monday night, with 61 patients being treated in the ICU.

The Cabinet is meeting today to sign off on plans for the phased withdrawal of the remaining public health restrictions.

It’s expected that almost all restrictions will be removed by late October, with an increase in the number of people allowed at live events starting from next week.

Aran Islands RNLI rescues angling boat with nine aboard

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August 31, 2021

Galway Daily news Long weekend for Aran Islands RNLI with multiple rescues in rough seas — Aran Islands RNLI all-weather lifeboat. Photo: RNLI/Nicholas Leach

The Aran Islands RNLI lifeboat came to the rescue of an angling boat with nine people abard in trouble off Inis Mór yesterday.

The all-weather lifeboat was launched at 2:48pm on Monday in response to a call-out from the Coast Guard.

An 11.6m angling boat with nine people out on a fishing trip was experiencing engine problems at the back of Inis Mór.

The lifeboat launched under Coxswain John O’Donnell and a full crew and headed straight for the boat.

Weather conditions at the time of launching were good, with a slight East North East breeze, calm seas and good visibility.

Once on the scene, the volunteer lifeboat crew checked that all aboard were safe and sound, before establishing a tow line.

With the tow line safely secured, the lifeboat proceeded back towards Kilronan Harbour, where the angling boat was brought alongside the Pontoon.

Speaking after the call out Aran Islands RNLI Coxswain John O’Donnell said: ‘thankfully the weather was calm and a quick response time from the volunteer crew, meant the angling boat and all aboard were brought safely ashore without delay.’

When going to sea, always wear a lifejacket, let someone know when you are due back and carry means of contacting someone ashore, in a waterproof pouch or bag.

Roadworks on national roads across Galway this week

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August 31, 2021

Galway Daily news Roadworks on national roads across Galway this week

Motorists are advised that roadworks will be taking place on national roads at towns across Galway over the next three days.

Galway County Council is carrying out road texturing works at Clifden, Kylemore, Moylough, Dunmore, and Milltown.

These roadworks will last from 8:30am to 6pm each day from Tuesday to Thursday.

The full schedule and locations of the works is:

N59 North of Clifden – Tuesday. 31st August 2021
N59 Kylemore – Wednesday. 1st September 2021
N63 Moylough – Wednesday, 1st September 2021
N83 Dunmore – Thursday, 2nd September 2021
N17 Milltown – Thursday, 2nd September 2021

NUIG Students’ Union urges caution booking student accommodation

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August 31, 2021

galway td galway housing government provides affordable housing

NUI Galway Students’ Union has urged students to be cautious when looking for accommodation for the upcoming academic year.

The SU offered advice for students ahead of the release of Leaving Cert results later this week, when thousands of students will find themselves looking for accommodation.

Housing for students has been an issue in the past, and NUIG Students’ Union says that before signing a contract, it is extremely important to make sure the property fits the needs of all tenants.

They also advised students to look out for rental scams, but said not to panic as there are properties available.

They said that students should keep a close eye on all the accommodation websites, especially www.nuigstudentpad.ie.

Students’ Union President Róisín Nic Lochlainn said that finding accommodation can be extremely stressful and people tend to rush into it.

“It is paramount that you follow these guidelines to avoid scams and ensure that the house you live in will be sustainable for you and your friends,” said Róisín.

“Never rush into getting accommodation, be cautious and insist on receipts and any repairs where necessary.

“This will be where you stay for at least nine months so make sure you have all the necessities before making any commitments. Students still seeking accommodation should check www.nuigstudentpad.ie”

Handy Tips

Be aware of the following rental scams

Scammer claims to be out of the country so can’t show you the property but requests a deposit.

Scammer is living at the property, and shows a number of people around. They get a deposit from several people and then flee with the cash.

The transaction appears to have gone smoothly until the renter finds that the keys don’t work and the landlord has disappeared.

Take your time when viewing a property. Ensure all the necessities are there e.g. washing machine, furnishings etc. Check that all gas and electrical appliances are in good working order.
Take photos of the property and make sure to highlight any damages already there e.g. Cigarette burns, carpet stains, etc.
If there are any repairs to be made in the property, be sure to get it in writing from the landlord or agency that these problems will be rectified before handing over your deposit.
Avoid paying the deposit in cash and ensure you get a receipt for any moneys exchanged. You are legally entitled to a receipt so make sure to insist on one.
Request a viewing prior to the move in date to ensure that all outstanding issues have been rectified.
Ensure the house is well ventilated and that heating sources are identified prior to signing a contract/lease.
Insist that a building energy rating (BER) certificate is provided prior to signing the contract. This will help you know how cold the house is likely to get and will give you an idea of the cost for heating.
Ensure you are clear on the duration of the tenancy. If you sign a lease and leave early you may be liable to pay outstanding rent even though you are no longer living there. Check what the situation is in the event of a lockdown.
Make sure it’s clearly outlined in your lease which utility bills you must pay.
Take out contents insurance as the landlord’s policy will not cover your personal possessions.
For online learning check what the broadband speeds and deals are in the neighbourhood to make sure you will be well connected.

COVID-19: 1,293 cases reported today

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August 30, 2021

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

A further 1,293 new cases of COVID-19 have been reported by the Department of Health today.

As of this morning there were 382 people in Ireland hospitalised with COVID. The number in the ICU stands at 61 patients.

Dr Tony Holohan emphasised that great sacrifices had been made to allow schools to reopen safely.

However, he struck a positive note that, from experience last year, school itself had not been a major source of transmission among children.

“Our data clearly shows that, to date, the school environment was not a major source of disease transmission.”

“In order to go back to school as safely as possible, my advice to children is to wash your hands or use hand sanitiser regularly and follow the protocols operating in your school.”

Clearer COVID guidelines needed for older people – Active Retirement Ireland

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August 30, 2021