Galway to get €320k for streetscape enhancements in towns and villages

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August 5, 2021

Galway Daily news Parents advised to keep on top of school immunisation programme

Following the success of the walk-in vaccination clinics in Galway and across the country last weekend, more of the same will take place this week.

Around 850 people received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine in Galway last Saturday and Monday

Two clinics will run again in Galway and Clifden vaccination centres this Saturday, August 7 for people ages 16 years and over.

The clinics, at Clifden Community School and Ballybrit Racecourse, will be administering vaccines without an appointment from 10am on Saturday.

The Galway City clinic will be open until 2pm in the afternoon, and the Clifden clinic will run later, until 4pm.

These walk-in clinics are again only for people to receive their first dose of vaccine. Those who get their jab will be contacted by text for a second dose appointment.

The reaction to last weekends clinics was extremely positive, with Frank Harburn, Saolta vaccination manager, saying that the level of attendance, particularly among young people “exceeded our expectations”.

Weather warning extended into Thursday night

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August 5, 2021

Galway Daily weather Ice warning issued as Met Eireann warns of hazardous conditions

A status yellow weather warning for thunderstorms and hail across Ireland today has been extended to last into Thursday night.

A weather warning issued by Met Eireann yesterday forecasts that “Thunderstorm activity with the risk of hail will lead to localised flooding and hazardous driving conditions” today.

The warning was originally set to last until 7pm, but has been extended by Met Eireann to 10pm Thursday.

In Galway today, widespread thundery showers are expected, but some bright patches will also come through in the afternoon and early evening.

Highest temperatures of 17 to 19 degrees today, with a moderate southerly wind veering westerly as the evening progresses.

A marine warning has also been issued for all Irish coastal waters today, with winds reaching force 6 or higher throughout Thursday.

The UK Met Office has also issued a thunderstorm warning for the six counties in Northern Ireland for Friday, into Saturday morning.

Friday will continue cloudy in Galway, with spells of rain throughout the day and into the weekend.

Migrant and refugee activists invited to take part in leadership programme

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August 5, 2021

galway daily news refugee migrant leadership programme

The Immigrant Council of Ireland is inviting migrant and refugee activists from Galway to take part in its Migrant Leadership Academy programme.

The programme, which is being launched this week, brings together social justice and equality champions to enhance their leadership skills and design initiatives to benefit their local communities.

It will be the Immigrant Council’s third Leadership Academy, which aims to address the lack of migrant representation in the social justice sector and build the capacities of future community leaders.

Running for nine weeks from September to November, the academy will be a blended learning experience consisting of weekly online classes, pre-recorded video sessions and home exercises.

The programme will upskill participants in subjects including community organising, political mobilisation, campaigning and more.

It is open to migrants and refugees, including those currently applying for international protection, who are 18 years of age or older and who come from a non-EU/EEA background.

The programme is particularly suited to existing activists committed to social justice and equality who are active in their communities and already have established local networks.

Speaking about the launch of the academy, Immigrant Council of Ireland Integration Manager Teresa Buczkowska said that Ireland is an increasingly diverse society, with one in eight of us coming from a migrant background.

“The reality, however, is that many migrants don’t see themselves represented in many key sectors of Irish society, including the social justice sector,” said Teresa Buczkowska.

“Many migrants and refugees are doing great work in their local communities championing issues and effecting positive change, but their hard work is often overlooked.

“Many are isolated and lack support from their peers and opportunities to fine-tune their skills to become better leaders and organisers.”

Teresa Buczkowska said that the Migrant Leadership Academy strives to identify talented migrant and refugee leaders and provide them with the space to connect with one another.

“The academy will also help migrant leaders design and implement their own social justice campaigns and migrant integration initiatives,” she said.

“Previous Leadership Academy initiatives saw improvement of employment laws concerning spouses of migrant workers (Stamp 3 holders), as well as raising awareness on issues affecting migrant women victimised by domestic violence (the #WeAreHereToo Campaign).”

Megan Flynn Dixon, a migrant woman originally from New Zealand, took part in the Migrant Leadership Academy in 2020.

Along with two other migrant women who also participated in the Leadership Academy, she founded the Le Chéile gym in Galway – a social enterprise which provides free health and wellness support to international protection applicants in the local area.

“I have always been interested in helping communities to help themselves, and bringing my business management skills to the not for profit sector,” said Megan Flynn Dixon.

“The Leadership Academy gave me practical tools for improving the impact of my work and expanded my network both socially and professionally.

“Along with my co-founders Jennifer Fri and Megan Maria Brown, I am so proud of what we’ve accomplished with Le Chéile.

“So many migrants and refugees in the international protection process are living in limbo awaiting a decision, with little to occupy their time. The impact on mental and emotional health in these situations can’t be overstated.”

She said that she has seen a huge change in so many clients at the gym.

“You can see in their faces they’ve been able to reclaim some of their livelihood. They feel like people again, not just a number in a long queue,” she said.

“The Leadership Academy empowers activists like me to take an idea and make it a reality. The skills I learned were invaluable in taking my initial concept and turning it into a working model.

“I would encourage other migrant activists to get involved. Those who feel passion to make a change in their local communities but don’t know where to start. Not only will you learn what you need to know, but you’ll be joining a family of migrant activists who are always there to lean on for support and for ideas. It’s been an absolutely fantastic experience.”

The Migrant Leadership Academy runs from 23^rd September to 18^th November 2021. Anyone interested can learn more or apply through the Immigrant Council’s website at www.immigrantcouncil.ie. The deadline for applications is Monday, 23^rd August.

County Council cracking down on dog fouling

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August 5, 2021

Galway Daily news Plans rejected for new dog park near Oranmore

Galway County Council is launching a new public campaign against dog fouling this week due to large numbers of complaints.

The ‘Remember if They Poop, You Scoop’ campaign will be launched at Renville Park this week, followed by more events in towns across the county throughout August.

The County Council has said that dog waste has become an “escalating problem” in parks, open spaces, and on footpaths since the start of the pandemic.

In response to this, additional signages reminding people to pick up after their dogs, and the penalties for not doing so, have been installed in towns and villages, as have dog waste bag dispenser units.

Audio warning devices have also been installed at amenity areas such as Renville Park and the Swimming area at Portumna Marina.

As part of the campaign, wardens will be on patrol in the mornings, evenings and weekends at dog fouling problem areas identified throughout the county.

Under Section 22 of the Litter Pollution Act, people who fail to clean up after their dog in public areas can receive a €150 on the spot fine, or a €4,000 fine if they are convicted in court.

On top of spoiling the area for people out walking, dog waste is a health hazard, and can carry multiple infections such as toxocariasis.

This is caused by roundworms in the dogs’ intestines. It poses the greatest risk to children, where an infestation can lead to eye disorders, dizziness, nausea, asthma and epileptic fits.

This public campaign against dog fouling will be launched in Renville Park, Oranmore on Friday, August 6, with elected representatives, voluntary groups, and council staff in attendance.

An awareness stand will be manned on the day by awareness officers and wardens with information advising dog owners of their responsibilities, and highlighting the risks of not picking up after your dog.

Further events will follow in Athenry on August 13, Ballinasloe on August 14, An Spidéal on August 20, and Tuam Palace Grounds on August 27.

Large modern bungalow boasts beautiful gardens

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August 4, 2021

galway daily news property for sale in claregalway o'donnellan & joyce

This large bungalow in Claregalway has impressive outside space and is presented in excellent condition throughout – making it the ultimate family home.

Having been well maintained and enhanced over the years by the current owners, Cregboy’s quality is noticeable throughout with features such as recessed lighting, inserted stove and detailed coving.

O’Donnellan & Joyce are offering this four-bedroom bungalow for sale with an asking price of €350,000.

One striking feature of this property is its excellent use of natural light and the encompassing beautiful landscaped gardens.

It offers spacious accommodation with approximately 129.1 sq.m and is thoughtfully arranged with all living and reception quarters to the right of entry, whilst all bedrooms are on the left hand side.

The residence consists of four sizeable bedrooms, a modern fitted bathroom, separate WC room, a large living room with an inserted stove, and a dining/reception area.

1 of 3

The kitchen and utility space as well as a beautiful conservatory overlook the rear garden.

Additionally the property offers an adjacent garage with full plumbing and electricity which gives plentiful potential for further use (STPP).

Externally the property boasts beautiful surrounding gardens on approximately 0.5 acres with ample off-street parking to the front.

The attention to detail is obvious in the manicured lawns and shrubbery, large patio space and landscaped walkways that lead into picturesque wilding at the rear of the site.

Cregboy offers an idyllic setting whilst still being able to avail of all of the necessary amenities for daily life. Claregalway village is within close proximity being less than 2km away, whilst access to Oranmore and Galway City are easy with quality transport routes and links. Additionally the area greatly benefits from quick access to both M6 and M18 motorways.

Cregboy Claregalway is an ideal purchase for a family owner looking for an abundance of living space in excellent condition, ample outside space with beautiful gardens offering an idyllic environment with easy access to all amenities required.

BER: C2

To find out more about Cregboy in Claregalway, see: https://property.odonnjoyce.com/residential/brochure/cregboy-claregalway-co-galway/4518605

COVID-19: 1,314 new cases reported today

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August 4, 2021

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

There have been a further 1,314 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health today.

As of this morning there are 187 COVID patients hospitalised around the country, with 30 of them in serious condition in the ICU.

There have been a total of 5,044 deaths related to COVID-19 here since the start of the pandemic.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tony Holohan said “”Today, the ECDC and EMA have strongly encouraged those who are eligible for vaccination but have not yet been vaccinated to start and complete the recommended COVID-19 vaccination schedule as soon as they can.”

He added that full vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from the coronavirus, including from the Delta variant, now dominant in Ireland.

“It is important to remember that infections in vaccinated people do not mean that vaccines do not work.”

“While no vaccine is 100% effective in this way, these breakthrough infections that occur are generally much less severe, and they are associated with less risk of hospitalisation.”

40,000sqft film studio at Galway Airport could create 200 jobs

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August 4, 2021

Galway Daily news 40,000sqft film studio at Galway Airport could create 200 jobs

A new 40,000sq ft movie studio proposed for Galway Airport could create up to 200 jobs for the county.

Spiddal based Danú Media is behind the proposal to create Atlantic Studios at the Carnmore airport site.

The project has been approved to proceed to the planning stage, with an agreement in principal to lease the airport site from the city and county councils.

The initial investment in the Atlantic Studios development is expected to yield €10 to €15 million per annum to the Galway economy while creating between 150 and 200 production specific jobs.

Siobhán Ní Ghadhra, Atlantic Studios Director said “We have a strong strategic plan and vision for what it can deliver for Galway and the West and Ireland as a whole.

“This development will be crucial to fulfilling the current lack of availability of appropriate full service studio space in Ireland’s audio visual sector. Growth has been severely restricting in the sector as a result.”

The studio will be delivered in a phased basis, with the first phase involving developing the existing hangar building to provide over 40,000sq ft of film and TV studio space, along with offices and suites of support facilities.

Phase two of the development will include additional studio space, with the goal of becoming a prime location and hub for production companies, who’re focused on delivering key services to support film and TV production.

Atlantic Studios has been established by Danú Media with backing from the Western Development Commission, Údarás na Gaeltachta and a wide range of industry stakeholders, including Screen Ireland and Galway Film Centre.

It is hoped that the studio would help make Galway a key location for high scale movie and TV production in Ireland, showcasing local talent and the locations of the west of Ireland.

John Brady of Atlantic Studios went on to say, “Today’s announcement is an important step in the right direction, as Galway has a long standing history of TV and Film production.”

“The establishment of Atlantic Studios will allow us and Galway to attract large scale international projects to shoot here in the West which will also have an obvious spin off for the local economy and the tourism industry.”

“It is an exciting initiative and we look forward to progressing the plans with Galway City and County Council to bring this project to fruition and to placing Galway on the international map in 2022.”

Galway Chamber CEO Kenneth Deery also welcomed the announcement, saying that creative industries such as film and tv are “significant employers” for Galway, and praised Danú Media as “ambassadors” for the region.

“We in Galway Chamber wholeheartedly support the Atlantic Studios project, which will lead to an increase in jobs and a positive economic impact across the film and TV Sector and Galway as a whole”

Weather warning issued ahead of thunderstorms and dangerous driving conditions

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August 4, 2021

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

Met Éireann has issued a status yellow weather warning for thunderstorms for Galway which will come into effect on Thursday morning.

Thundery spells of rain are forecast with a risk of lightning and local hail throughout the day.

People are being warned that there could also be localised flooding and driving conditions will be dangerous.

The warning begins at 6am tomorrow, Thursday, and will remain in place throughout the day until 7pm.

Status yellow weather warnings from Met Éireann and the Met Office will be in force tomorrow across all 32 counties.

New base sought for Lough Derg Coast Guard

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August 4, 2021

Galway Daily news Lough Derg Coast Guard

A new base of operations is being sought for the Lough Derg Coast Guard unit, as its current building has been deemed unsuitable.

The lake, which sits within counties Galway, Clare, and Tipperary is a popular hub for boating, including from Portumna.

There are frequent callouts on the lake from boats which have run aground, but fortunately few serious emergency calls.

Galway East TD Anne Rabbitte said that the Office of Public Works has confirmed that two options are being considered for the Coast Guard Unit, and that the OPW is in the early stages of acquiring a site at Killaloe.

Deputy Rabbitte highlighted the “key role” played by the Coast Guard Unit in keeping people safe on the lake.

“Whether on the old site or a new location, the Coast Guard needs to be operating from an adequate and modern base. We need to ensure people have the facilities to keep everyone on Lough Derg safe.”

“I’ve been told that OPW are in regular contact with the Coast Guard with a view to assisting with the provision of cost estimates and developing proposals for the next round of priority projects.”

“Once the current prioritised projects are underway, the OPW will then be better placed to progress the Killaloe station.”

The current building for the Lough Derg unit was assessed in November of last year as needing “substantial intervention or possible demolition”, but the site itself is usable, which is one of the options under consideration.

Seasonal ferry tour of Inis Mór & Cliffs of Moher extended

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August 4, 2021

Galway Daily tourism Summer ferry cruise to Inis Mór & Cliffs of Moher extended — 04/06/2021 NO REPRODUCTION FEE IrelandÕs largest domestic ferry Saoirse na Farraige and itÕs Maiden Voyage from Galway City to Inis Mr and the Cliffs of Moher was launched by Aran Island Ferries from Galway City Docks Today ( June 4th) A seasonal daily sailing at 9.30am full details http://www.aranislandferries.com . Photo:Boyd Challenger

Aran Islands Ferries has extended its new seasonal tourist route to Inis Mór and the Cliffs of Moher until the end of September.

In June the long standing ferry operator launched a new service taking visitors on a day trip out to Inis Mór, where they can spend several hours exploring the largest of the Aran Islands.

After that, the ferry takes a circuitous route back to Galway City by way of the Cliffs of Moher, giving passengers a chance to really take in the majesty of the cliffs.

Viewing the stunning c from the sea, learning the history of Galway Bay, seeing nature, meeting the dolphins have all been part of the positive feedback received from the people who’ve enjoyed the tour in the past month and a half.

In response to the positive demand, the ferry operator has announced that they are extending the window of this seasonal tour route until September 26.

“The new route and service has received a hero’s welcome from Galwegians, visitors to Galway City and the tourism and hospitality sector,” said Marketing Manager Aine McLoughlin.

Offering a 90-minute cruise on Galway Bay, Aran Island Ferries luxury vessels showcase the contrasting beauty and scenery of the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way coastline of Connemara and Clare along with all three of the Aran Islands, Inis Oirr and Inis Meáin before docking in Kilronan on Inis Mór.

While on Inis Mór for a 4.5 hour stop-over from 11am to 3.30pm visitors can hire bicycles, or explore the stunning beauty of the largest of the three Aran Islands by mini bus tour, pony and trap, Aran Off Road Experience or simply walk.

Other attractions include the breath taking Dún Aengus Cliffs, the many historical sites, beaches, Aran Islands Goats Cheese Food Tours, Aran Diving Academy or simply relax with the mouth-watering seafood and a drink.

There is onboard audio commentary for guests to learn about the culture and heritage of the Aran Islands, the nature and beauty of Galway Bay, the Wild Atlantic Way and the world renowned Cliffs of Moher, all of which are entertaining and educational to all age groups.

Solas calls for local community education providers to apply for €10m fund

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August 4, 2021

galway daily news solas education training funding galway

Community education providers in Galway are being encouraged to apply for funding under the €10 million Mitigating against Educational Disadvantage Fund 2021.

The fund was announced by Minister Simon Harris on Friday and is administered by SOLAS, the further education and training authority, as well as the sixteen local Education and Training Boards.

Its aim is to support community education for adult learners in Galway and across the country who have the highest level of need, with a strong focus on building digital infrastructure.

In 2020, over 500 community education projects were funded through the 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs).

Around the country, the projects helped to support online learning, connect communities and provide social supports to the most vulnerable groups.

Commenting on the announcement, Andrew Brownlee, CEO of SOLAS, said: “As we move towards a wider return to on-site learning from September, it is critically important that we re-engage with learners and encourage others to take up further education and training opportunities.

“We are calling on community education providers in Galway to apply for funding through a new phase of the Mitigating against Educational Disadvantage Fund.

“Through the Fund, we are supporting those in society who are furthest removed from education through social disadvantage.”

Andrew Brownlee added that they are also supporting community education providers to continue delivering their much-needed services, and to ensure that all sectors of society are remaining connected and supported to continue their learning journeys.

Paddy Lavelle, General Secretary of Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI) welcomed the announcement of the 2021 Fund, saying that Education and Training Boards deliver whole of life education and training for all, including to our most disadvantaged learners.

“This fund will enable ETBs and our community education partners to provide disadvantaged learners with the technology, financial supports and mentoring they need to engage or re-engage in further education and training,” he said.

“I would encourage all ETBs and Community Education providers to get the application process underway.”

Funding applications from community education providers can be made by completing a funding application which is available from the adult education officers in your local Education and Training Board.

For more information, including the September closing date for your local ETB, contact your Education & Training Board here.

COVID-19: Hospital cases continue to rise at UHG

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August 4, 2021

Galway Daily news Almost 1,000 patients on trolleys at UHG in February

The number of people at University Hospital Galway with COVID-19 has continued to increase slowly but steadily.

UHG has the most confirmed case of any acute hospital in the country in the latest HSE figures, 19 as of Tuesday evening, one more than St. James’, which has the next highest level.

However, while UHG has once more confirmed case than St. James’, the Dublin hospital has far more suspected cases for which test results are awaited, 27 as of yesterday evening, compared with just one in Galway.

There are five COVID-19 patients at University Hospital Galway who have been admitted to the ICU, also the highest level in the country, but this has remained level in recent days.

At Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe there are three confirmed COVID cases, none of which are in the ICU.

Nationwide, there are 179 people in Ireland hospitalised with COVID-19, of whom 29 are in intensive care.

Walk-in vaccination clinic numbers “exceeded our expectations”

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August 4, 2021

galway daily news Spring vaccination campaign

The number of people who came to walk-in vaccination clinics in Galway over the bank holiday weekend “exceeded our expectations” across all age groups.

850 people received their first COVID-19 vaccine doses at two walk-in two clinics running in Clifden and Galway City on Saturday and Monday.

At the Clifden vaccination centre, around 130 people attended the walk-in clinic on Saturday, followed by 820 people getting the jab at Ballybrit Racecourse on Monday.

Frank Harburn, Saolta General Manager for the rollout of the vaccination programme in the West and North West said, “We were very happy with the turnout and it exceeded our expectation with a range of age groups attending from 16 years upwards.”

“Based on provisional data, there were over 4,200 vaccines administered at the walk-in COVID-19 vaccination clinics in the West and North West over the weekend.”

Nationwide, more than 30,000 people attended the vaccination clinics running over the bank holiday weekend, with HSE Chief Paul Reid saying that he was “beyond proud” of the level of attendance among young people.

These walk-in clinics allowed people aged 16 years old and over queue to receive their first pfizer vaccine dose without needing an appointment.

For those who got vaccinated in Galway, they will later receive a text message calling them for their second shot.

The second shot will be administered at the vaccination centre closest to their home address.

Registration is open for anyone in Ireland to get vaccinated through the HSE website.

“We have a good supply of vaccine at the moment and are usually able to offer appointments within a few days of people registering,” Frank Harburn said,

“I would encourage anyone who hasn’t yet received their vaccine, to do so as soon as possible to have the best protection against COVID-19 including against the Delta variant.”

There were a further 1,015 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported in Ireland on Tuesday, as fears of a sharp new wave caused by the Delta variant seem to have been held at bay by the high level of vaccine uptake in Ireland.

The government has concluded a deal to purchase 700,000 doses of the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccine from Romania, where uptake has not been as strong.

COVID-19: 1,015 new cases reported today

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August 3, 2021

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

The Department of Health has reported 1,015 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon.

As of this morning, 178 people with COVID-19 in hospitals across the State, of whom 29 are in ICU.

At University Hospital Galway, there are 18 people with the disease as of yesterday eveing, four of whom are receiving intensive care.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said today that doctors around the country are reporting that outbreaks are being notified to them that originated in symptomatic people attending workplaces, or eating out, or visiting friends.

He asked people to remember that they should stay at home if they have symptoms – even if they are vaccinated.

“Together as a country, we need to keep on top of all the positive behaviours that limit the spread of disease, and integral to this is staying at home if you have any cold or flu symptoms,” said Dr Holohan.

“Don’t drop your guard, because heading into work or meeting a friend while experiencing fever, cough, cold/flu symptoms, or loss of sense of smell/taste – that could be the beginning link that sets off a chain of transmission that leads to an outbreak in your community.”

The CMO said that the uplifting scenes over the Bank Holiday weekend as thousands of young people received their vaccines at walk-in centres were extremely encouraging.

“Young people have had an exceptionally difficult time throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Their willingness to come out to get vaccinated in droves is another example of the resilience they have shown throughout this challenging time.

“It is this same spirit of solidarity, commitment to keeping our whole community safe by getting vaccinated, and keeping to the basic safe measures such as staying at home if you feel unwell that will ultimately be our pathway out of this pandemic.”

Man pleads guilty to defiling teenage girl

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August 3, 2021

A man faces sentencing this December for the defilement of a teenage girl in Galway in 2017.

The man in his 40s appeared before Judge Rory McCabe at Galway Circuit Court on July 23.

He entered a plea of guilty to once count defilement of a child under the age of 17 years, contrary to Section 3 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2006.

Directions will be sought from the DPP by the prosecution on the other charges on the indictment.

The offence occurred between June 1 and June 28 of 2017 in Galway City.

Judge McCabe order the preparation of Probation Report before the next court date, when a victim impact statement will also be heard.

A psychological assessment of the man will also be prepared at the request of defence counsel.

The man was remanded on continuing bail to next come before the court on December 15.

Dark days ahead as Galway forecast shows no glimmer of hope

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August 3, 2021

galway daily news Lightning and flooding forecast as Thunderstorm warning issued

The week-long heatwave already feels like a distant memory – and Met Éireann’s forecast for Galway shows there will be no return to better days – at least this week.

Showers will become more widespread across Galway this afternoon (Tuesday) and some of them will be heavy and possibly thundery.

Rain and drizzle will develop along the west coast later today with maximum temperatures of 15 to 18 degrees.

It will be cloudy overnight, with outbreaks of heavy rain in parts of the county as well as hill and coastal fog. Minimum temperatures will be 11 to 14 degrees.

Tomorrow morning (Wednesday) will be cloudy at first, as a band of showery rain moves in. There will be some brighter spells in the afternoon along with scattered showers and some heavy showers are likely.

Maximum temperatures will be between 16 and 20 degrees on Wednesday, in light to moderate westerly winds.

Thursday looks set to be another dark and overcast day, with persistent rain and some thunderstorms possible across the county in the afternoon.

Friday will be less rainy, with some brighter spells and showers throughout the day.

Met Éireann’s weekend forecast shows little change, with a mix of bright or sunny spells and showers – some of them heavy – with a continuing risk of thundery downpours.

People encouraged to sign up for All-Ireland charity cycle

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August 3, 2021

The charity cycle that pits counties against each another for all-Ireland glory is back again this year – but with a difference.

The event is open to families and leisure cyclists this year as well as cycling enthusiasts, with all kilometres cycled going towards their county’s total score.

The All-Ireland Cycle, sponsored by Zurich Insurance this year, is a fun and COVID-friendly way to come together and raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Research Institute.

The challenge is to cycle as many kilometres as possible between August 12 and 22.

Waterford are the current title holders after Shannonside Cycling Club the Cycling Club came out as winners last year.

This year’s cycle is open to everyone – novice, leisure, experienced and serious cyclists with a particular emphasis on families cycling together during the holiday period.

A live leader board will track which county is winning the All-Ireland Cycle and which cycling club is winning the All-Ireland Club Cycle.

Registration is €25 and each participant will receive a commemorative cycle neck snood after the event.

People can also receive a link to the events JustGiving page to help raise additional funds for the charity by sharing their cycling success with family or friends.

Support breast cancer research and ‘Get on Yer Bike’ for your county and register now to take part at: www.AllIrelandCycle.ie

Sharp drop in pandemic unemployment figures in Galway

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August 3, 2021

Galway Daily news Fewer than 4,000 remain on pandemic unemployment in Galway

There has been a sharp decline in the number of people in Galway receiving pandemic unemployment this week.

The latest figures from the Department of Social Protection have 8,740 people in Galway receiving PUP this week, a decline of 1,419 compared with last week.

This is almost three times greater than the drop recorded last week, prompted by the continuing reopening of all sectors of the economy.

Nationwide there has been a drop of more than 29,000 in the number of people receiving pandemic unemployment this week.

The 163,400 people still on PUP is the lowest number since the emergency support was introduced early in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Commenting on this week’s figures, Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphreys said “With the return of indoor hospitality, it is great to see more businesses now re-opened as we move into the busiest weeks of the summer holiday season.”

“The number of people in receipt of the PUP is now at the lowest level since the pandemic began and every week we are seeing more and more people getting back to work.”

The Minister said that it is very encouraging to see so many businesses hiring new staff, and that the government wants to provide skills and training to those currently without a job.

The hospitality sector remains the area with the highest number of PUP claimants, with 37,723 people still in the system, followed by Wholesale and Retail Trade (25,368) and Administrative and support service activities (18,350).

As PUP is paid weekly in arrears people who have closed their claim last week are receiving a final payment this week and are still counted in the numbers in payment for this week.

Minister Humphreys added “Past experience has shown us that when the economy begins to recover, it doesn’t always move at the same pace for everybody. And, of course, the longer a person remains unemployed the more difficult it can be to find a job.”

“Everybody deserves the opportunity to work and everybody deserves the support of the State and its services in finding that work. This is what Pathways to Work is about – helping people to find a job and to keep it.”

The pandemic unemployment figures published this week are in addition to the 175,281 people who were on the Live Register at the end of June.

Roadworks between Headford and Tuam disrupting traffic today

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August 3, 2021