GMIT awarded €2.9 million for free upskilling courses

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July 14, 2021

There is great excitement on the island of Inis Oírr this week ahead of the launch of an open air exhibition of 21 currachs by artists from all along the western seaboard to celebrate the 21^st birthday of the island’s arts centre.

Each of the six-foot currach creations, fabricated in metal and covered in canvas, are on display at Áras Éanna and at a strategic locations around the island for an outdoor exhibition called ‘Curacha’ which is fully compliant with coronavirus guidelines.

The Artistic Director of Áras Éanna, Dara McGee, came up with the idea of asking 21 artists from Kerry to Donegal, and across to Armagh, to paint a currach each as part of the arts centre’s birthday celebrations.

The currachs, seen as a symbol of the Aran Islands, have been hand painted by a wide variety of artists, from some of the best-known visual artists in Ireland to exciting emerging talents and people who live in small coastal communities or offshore Gaeltacht islands.

Twenty one artists have now completed their canvas currachs for what promises to be an amazing outdoor exhibition, which follows a trail all around the beautiful island. The exhibition launches this Saturday at 1pm and runs until Sunday, September 12.

Established artists including John Behan, Tom Meskell, and Mick O’Dea are taking part in the ‘Curacha’ exhibition, alongside Inis Oírr resident Pat Quinn, an emerging young artist from Co Armagh called Daniel Coleman, and Kathleen Furey, whose currach depicts a Harry Clarke stained glass window painting of St Gobnait from the Honan Chapel in Co Cork.

Kathleen’s currach is on view in the Inis Oírr Church.

Oringinally from Pakistan, Sadia Shoaib – who is living in Direct Provision in Co Mayo – researched the Aran Islands for her piece which is in a spiritual Mandala style.

“We had to do something outdoors because of COVID-19, so I was wondering what we could do,” said Dara McGee, Artistic Director of Áras Éanna Ionad Ealaíne.

“I was thinking that currachs are made of timber and canvas covered in tar. Straight away it hit me that canvas is one of the materials that has been used by artists for painting on.

“I thought it would be amazing to make these currachs, cover them in canvas, and then distribute them to the artists.

Dara McGee said that once the idea went out to the artists, they were so responsive and positive about it.

“It’s been really, really amazing to see the finished currachs land on Inis Oírr,” added Dara.

“I can’t thank the artists enough for their enthusiasm and how they see this as a wonderful idea, to display their work as a collective in the open air on the beautiful island of Inis Oírr.”

Each currach reflects the artist’s own personality and style. The artists were given free rein to paint or decorate the canvas currachs in whatever way they liked and the result is a stunning collection of unique artworks.

Visitors to Inis Oírr over the coming weeks can follow a trail to check out the 21 distinctive pieces of art which have been placed strategically around the island. Brochures with information about he exhibiton are widely available on the island.

The artists taking part are Dolores Lyne, Alannah Robins, Naoise Sheridan, Aine Phillips, Sean O Flaithearta (from the Aran Islands), Margot Quinn, Pat Quinn, Ger Sweeney, Mick O’Dea, Kathleen Furey, Jennifer Cunningham, Dara McGee, Breda Burns, John Behan RHA, Sadia Shoaib, Daniel Coleman, Tom Meskell, Seán Cathal O Coileán, Jay Murphy, Cathal McGinley, and Deirde McKenna.

Vacant sites in Galway City raised in Dáil

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July 14, 2021

galway daily mairead farrell td sinn fein nurses midwives pay

Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell has asked the Government what actions they are taking to stop vacant sites being hoarded in Galway City.

The Sinn Féin TD also highlighted her party’s opposition to the Local Property Tax, saying that it will impact on ordinary people who are struggling to get by.

Raising the issue with Minister Paschal Donohoe in the Dáil, Deputy Farrell said that vacant sites are plaguing many cities across the country.

“What is the Government doing to make the vacant site levy a more effective tool to stop the hoarding of derelict site in the middle of a housing crisis?” the Galway TD asked.

Deputy Farrell gave the example of the derelict site at the former Corrib Great Southern Hotel which is at the entrance to Galway City.

“This has long been an eyesore at the gateway to our City, which has seen numerous fires and anti-social behaviour. It has been a great concern to residents for a number of years,” she said.

Deputy Farrell said that planning permission to demolish the current structures at this site was granted in 2010 and that the site was added to the derelict sites register in January 2015.

“Yet we’re still here years later stuck with this eyesore in one of the most prominent locations on the east side of the city,” she said.

“We can’t afford lands lying idle in Galway when we have young people who can’t find an affordable home here, a crisis in student accommodation and massive housing waiting lists.

“So while the Government are hellbent to make ordinary people pay the Local Property Tax what is being done to stop this hoarding of property by developers when people cannot afford to pay rents or buy houses.”

COVID-19: 783 new cases reported, hospital numbers rise

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July 14, 2021

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

There have been a further 783 new cases of COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health today, with infections rising by up to 4% a day.

The number of people hospitalised with COVID-19 has also jumped to 73 as of this morning, up from the 62 reported yesterday.

Of these patients, 20 are in the ICU, three more than yesterday. There have been 13 people admitted to hospital in the past 24 hours.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said that there has been a “disproportionate” impact on certain people in society from the public health measures put in place to control the pandemic.

“Unfortunately, this remains the case and we are continuing to see our young people suffer a great burden as they wait for their vaccinations.”

“As we continue to reopen society and enjoy being able to meet loved ones again, it is important to remember that not all social situations are the same. There are certain instances that are riskier than others,” Dr Holohan said.

“As we have said throughout this pandemic, COVID-19 spreads much easier indoors and when public health measures are not prevalent and as such, it is important to exercise caution in all environments as we continue to safely meet others.”

Dr Ronan Glynn said that on top of driving an increase in incidence rates, the Delta variant is presenting with a wider variety of symptoms than other variants, such as headaches, sore throats, and a blocked or runny nose”.

“If you have any symptoms of a cold or flu it is vital that you isolate immediately and arrange a test.”

Prof Philip Nolan of the Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group said that the Delta variant is now responsible for the majority of cases in Ireland, and is at least twice as transmissible as the previous dominant variant.

“We have seen incidence increase significantly over the last two weeks, especially in unvaccinated groups. Infections are now growing at 2-4% per day.”

At least one dose of vaccine has now been administered to 70% of the adult population in Ireland, with 60% of adults now fully vaccinated.

Professor Karina Butler, Chair of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) said that this is remarkable, considering where we were just a few months ago.

The COVID-19 data hub provides up-to-date information on the key indicators of COVID-19 in the community.

Almost 550 fewer workers on PUP in Galway this week

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July 14, 2021

There are 544 fewer workers in Galway receiving the Pandemic Unemployment Payment this week as the number of recipients nationally decreased by over 9,000.

More than 7,500 people closed their PUP claims in the past week to return to work, with over half of them working in the Accommodation and Food Services Sector.

A total of 473 people closed their accounts in Galway to return to work.

Despite the further reduction in numbers, there are still 212,000 people receiving the weekly payments, which this week cost €62.7 million.

Speaking about this week’s PUP numbers, Minister Heather Humphreys said that since February, over 270,000 people have closed their claims as they returned to work.

“The fall in numbers further demonstrates the progress we are making in re-opening our economy and getting businesses back open,” said Minister Humphreys.

“Over the coming weeks, we can expect the overall number of recipients to fall further, particularly as we move to re-open indoor hospitality.”

The Minister said that the Government’s approach will continue to be one that is cautious and prioritises the health of citizens.

“While we are making great progress, we must carefully monitor the trajectory of this virus in the weeks and months to come,” added Minister Humphreys.

People invited to request second vaccine dose in Clifden

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July 14, 2021

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

The COVID-19 vaccination centre in Clifden will begin administering second doses for some people who received their first dose at the Ballybrit Vaccination Centre.

A helpline has been set up for people who have received their first dose at Ballybrit and wish to receive their second dose in Clifden.

People can request to have their second dose in Clifden by calling 086 036 0942 between 10am and 2pm, Monday to Friday.

The vaccination centre at Clifden Community School opened last week and is currently providing dose one vaccines to people living in Connemara who register online.

The new helpline will be dedicated to calls from people who got their first dose vaccine in Ballybrit and would like to get their second dose in the Clifden vaccination centre only.

All other vaccine queries should be directed to the HSE COVID-19 helpline on 1800 700 700.

Frank Harburn, Saolta General Manager for the rollout of the regional vaccination programme in the West and North West said that they will have their first clinic for people requiring their second dose of the vaccine in Clifden on Tuesday 20 July.

“It is really important that people get their second dose as soon as it is offered so that they have the best protection against COVID-19, including against the Delta variant,” said Frank Harburn.

“For anyone who is offered an appointment for their second vaccine in Ballybrit, our advice is to attend the appointment.

“If you are unable to travel into Galway, please call the helpline to make arrangements for an appointment in Clifden by calling 086 036 0942 between 10am and 2pm, Monday to Friday.”

1,000 spectators allowed to attend Galway Races

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July 14, 2021

Galway Daily sport Channelle Pharma sponsoring Galway Races for 37 years running — Galway Races. Photo Credit: INPHO/Galway Races

It has been announced that 1,000 people will be allowed to attend the 2021 Galway Races each day of the summer festival, significantly below what was hoped for.

CEO of Galway Racecourse Michael Maloney said today that they received news late on Tuesday evening that 1,000 spectators will be allowed on each day of the summer festival.

“We know given the support we’ve got over the last couple of weeks that this will be extremely disappointing news to all our fans who had been looking forward to the opportunity of coming back to Ballybrit this year.”

The festival organisers submitted plans which requested that up to 5,000 spectators a day to be permitted at the outdoor festival.

But Maloney added that “on the upside”, this is still 7,000 more people who will get a chance to view the races this month than were permitted last year, when the summer festival took place behind closed doors.

This year’s Galway Races summer festival will run from Monday, July 26, through the week to Sunday August 1.

“For those who do manage to come to Ballybrit this year, we’re delighted that we’ll have owners back, and now some small amount of public on top of that. We certainly look forward to make it an event that will be worth being at.”

Michael Maloney said that they are extremely fortunate to have so much television coverage lined up for the Galway Races this year, for those who cannot attend.

The first four days of the festival will be covered on RTÉ, followed by TG4 showing the Friday and Saturday, while the entire week’s racing will be spotlighted on the festival’s social media channels.

“We really hope that you’ll join us along the way in keeping an eye on what’s happening in Ballybrit this year, and we’re still looking forward to some great racing.”

Further updates are expected in the coming days on how the 1,000 permitted spectators will be handled.

Pump station works to disrupt Kinvara water supply today

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July 14, 2021

Galway Daily news Water outages in Moycullen

Kinvara and surrounding areas of the county may experience water outages or other supply disruptions today.

A interruption to operations at the pump station is scheduled to allow works to take place today.

The interruption is scheduled to last from 10:30am until 3pm this afternoon.

This may interrupt the water supply to to Kinvara Town, Doorus, Moy, Tarrea, Pollagh, Mulroog North, Mulroog South and surrounding areas.

People afftected by this are advised that it may take 2-3 hours after these works are completed before their water fully returns.

For updates, check Irish Water’s supply and service website page.

Traffic disruption due to Oughterard roadworks

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July 14, 2021

Galway Daily news Traffic disruption expected from Galway City centre roadworks

Motorists in Oughterard village may experience some delays today due to roadworks taking place in the village.

Galway County Council is carrying out roadworks on the Glann Road in Oughterard today.

In order to facilitate these works, a Stop and Go system will be in place to manage traffic until 5pm.

The county council is advising motorists on this road to expect delays today.

Commemoration ceremony marks centenary of Truce

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July 14, 2021

National Day of Commemoration — Photo Credit: Aengus McMahon/Galway City Council

All the Irish men and women who have given their lives in past wars, or serving on peacekeeping missions, were honoured at a ceremony in the city at the weekend.

Members of the city council, as well as members of the Defence Forces and religious leaders, attended a ceremony on the National Day of Commemoration on Sunday morning at City Hall.

This day also marked the catenary of the Truce which came into effect on July 11, 1921, bringing to an end the violence of the War of Independence.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr. Colette Connolly laid a wreath to honour those who gave their lives, either at home fighting for Ireland, or abroad in the name of a more peaceful world.

The Ceremony included an invitation to remember all those who died in past wars or on service with the United Nations, as well as those who died during the War of Independence.

Similar to last year, the Ceremony was scaled back considerably and differed substantially from arrangements in previous years.

Strict social distancing protocols were in place and strict social distancing guidelines were observed at all times during and after the Ceremony.

COVID-19: 589 new cases reported today

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July 13, 2021

A total of 589 new cases of COVID-19 were reported this afternoon by health officials.

The number of people with COVID in hospitals across the country now stands at 62, with 17 of those receiving care in ICUs.

As of yesterday evening, there are no COVID-19 patients receiving care in Galway’s public hospitals.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn said: “Scientific evidence shows that Delta is a much more transmissible variant of COVID-19, now accounting for 80% of the cases reported in Ireland.

“This is a challenge that is facing all of Europe, but we know that the basic public health measures still work against this variant.”

Dr Glynn urged people to avoid crowds, wear a mask, manage their contacts, keep their distance, meet outdoors where possible and if indoors, ensure that the room is well ventilated.

“With incidence of the disease continuing to increase, the rapid identification of cases and outbreaks of COVID-19 is essential,” he added.

“We are asking anyone diagnosed with COVID-19 to work with our contact tracers to identify all of your close contacts so that they, their families and colleagues can be protected.

“If you know you are a close contact of someone with COVID-19, or if you have any symptoms, stay at home and organise a free test as soon as possible.”

Overnight road closure for Kirwan roundabout works

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July 13, 2021

Galway Daily traffic Call for full report on cost of converting Martin Roundabout

A section of the Headford Road at the Kirwan roundabout junction will be closed overnight due to the ongoing works taking place.

Galway City Council is in the midst of replacing the roundabout with a signalised junction, necessitating traffic management measures throughout July.

A section of the N84 Headford Road will be closed from 7pm on Tuesday evening until 7am tomorrow morning to enable these works.

A traffic management plan will be in operation and signed diversion routes will be in place prior to the works commencing.

Motorists travelling on the Headford Road are advised to expect delays this evening and overnight.

NUIG Mincéirs Whiden Society promotes positive mental health

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July 13, 2021

galway daily news Members of NUI Galway Mincéirs Whiden Society and public representatives — Members of NUI Galway Mincéirs Whiden Society and public representatives

NUI Galway’s Mincéirs Whiden Society has unveiled a plaque in the shadow of Galway Cathedral to raise awareness of mental health for Irish Travellers.

This event follows the planting of a Tree of Life at the spot on 8 October last year to mark the first National Traveller Mental Health Day.

NUI Galway Master’s student and Traveller man Jason Sherlock said that they gathered for Irish Traveller mental health and for the mental health of all people.

“We are making a stand to show that it is okay to talk about mental health,” he said.

“It is very important we gather as a community to challenge negative mental health. By our actions we are showing that it is okay to talk about our feelings, especially when we are feeling down.”

The plaque is placed at the base of the Tree of Life on a green space overlooked by Galway Cathedral.

The event involved a special blessing by Fr Thomas McCarthy, who works in NUI Galway’s Chaplaincy, a recitation of the Rosary and a prayer service in memory of those who have died by suicide and others who suffer from mental ill health.

Speaking at the event, which was attended by a number of politicians, Mayor Colette Connolly, said: “Mental Health is a very significant issue within the Traveller Community, and I myself have worked with the Traveller Community for over 20 years and this issue is something that has gone under the radar.

“It is great the issue is being highlighted and the devastation that wreaks havoc, not only on the individual family, but also in the wider community.”

Deputy Mayor of Galway City Councillor Martina O’Connor also addressed the event, saying that sadly the statistics show the Traveller suicide rate is very high in Ireland.

“The recent report of standards of living, employment, education, health and life expectancy make for stark reading, but not surprising, unfortunately, for those who are Traveller or their friends and advocates,” she said.

“So much work has to be done to do better, so that another generation of Traveller children do not have to live and grow up as these statistics.

“These statistics are people – men, women and children – living in institutional racism, because that is the only name for systems in a country which keep a people from achieving and living the life they wish and having extra hurdles to overcome at each turn of life.”

Anne Marie Ward, the current chairperson of the Mincéirs Whiden Society and the newly elected Ethnic Minorities Officer of NUI Galway Students’ Union, said: “We have family and friends who love us.

“You do not have to wait until your mental health is so bad that you are at breaking point before you feel like you have to talk.

“It is always better, and when I say better, I mean better for yourself, that you talk about your problems when they arise, as it is easier for you to deal it when they are not built up.”

The event was attended by members of the Mincéirs Whiden Society including Chairperson Anne Maree Ward; Vice-Chairperson, Anna Keane; Secretary Jason Sherlock; and Public Relations Officer, Emma Ward; along with NUI Galway’s Societies Officer Ríona Hughes and Societies Safety Officer Mike O’Halloran.

Also at the event were Mayor Galway City Cllr Colette Connolly, Deputy Mayor Cllr Martina O’Connor, Galway West TD Catherine Connolly, Senator Pauline O’Reilly, Cllr Owen Hanley, and Cllr Alastair McKinstry.

NUI Galway’s Mincéirs Whiden Society thanked staff in Galway City Council who made it possible to plant a Tree of Life and hold the event to raise awareness of Traveller mental health.

New Galway to Dublin bus to begin operating at end of July

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July 13, 2021

galway daily news aircoach galway to dublin airport route

Private coach operator Aircoach has announced a new route from Galway to Dublin which will begin operating at the end of July.

Aircoach will offer ten services per day, Monday to Sunday, between Galway City and Dublin City and Dublin Airport.

Pick up points will include Galway City, GMIT and Athlone, with a number of services also including pick up points in Ballinasloe and Maynooth.

The coach operator, which was founded in 2001, currently has intercity routes including Cork, Belfast, Dublin City, Dublin Airport, and its suburbs.

Dervla McKay, MD of Aircoach, said that the company is delighted to expand its services to Galway and to commence this new route on July 29.

“Connectivity between our cities is hugely important and we are proud to now offer our services to even more customers,” said Dervla.

“Establishing a Galway – Dublin route was an important next step for us here at Aircoach and we look forward to the months ahead.”

Dervla said that a large section of the public relies on public transport services and they are now seeing passenger numbers continue to build back up with the reopening of the country.

“Pre-pandemic in 2019, Aircoach facilitated over 2.7 million passenger journeys alone and as we look ahead, public transport has an important role to play in the coming years in contributing to Ireland’s Climate Action Plan,” she added.

“We look forward to welcoming our new customers from Galway at this exciting time.”

The announcement of Aircoach’s new Galway route follows the recent unveiling of the company’s brand new look, creating a fresh and modern style in line with its ongoing evolution into a hybrid operator.

In line with Government regulations, Aircoach’s Galway route will initially operate at 75% capacity.

Customers will still be required to wear face masks onboard each service and customers will have the option to pre-book their tickets up to two hours in advance of their journey at aircoach.ie.

No COVID-19 patients at Galway hospitals today

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July 13, 2021

There are no coronavirus patients receiving treatment at University Hospital Galway or Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe today, HSE data shows.

There are two suspected cases of COVID-19 at UHG, while at Portiuncula Hospital there is one suspected case.

The number of people in hospital with the disease nationally is 60, with Letterkenny University Hospital and Mater Hospital recording the highest number of patients with COVID.

At UHG, there is one intensive care unit bed and six general beds available, and there are two critical care beds available at Portiuncula.

Today marks 500 days since the first case of COVID-19 was reported in Ireland.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said that we have “come a long way together on this difficult journey and sacrificed much in our collective effort to limit the transmission of this disease.”

“As we approach our 5 millionth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, we have great hope for our future,” he said.

Galway International Arts Festival unveils in-person and digital programme

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July 13, 2021

Galway Daily arts Galway International Arts Festival unveils in-person and digital programme

Galway International Arts Festival has announced the programme of live and digital events that will bring life to Galway this Autumn.

Due to COVID-19, the arts festival has been pushed back from its usual July dates, and will run from August 28 – September 18 this year.

With the extra time to make things safer, visitors and local will get to enjoy an exciting programme of live events in theatre, music and visual arts, as well as this year’s programme of First Thought Talks.

Building on last year’s festival, which saw everything take place online, there will still be an enhanced digital offering this year, with many events live streaming, or including a view on demand option.

This will allow people to engage with the arts festival in the manner which suits them best, and can even help bring the craic to a wider audience of people that can’t make it to Galway for whatever reason.

John Crumlish, Chief Executive GIAF said, “Despite the many challenges of the last year for everyone, I feel that we at Galway International Arts Festival are very lucky in that we will get to present a festival that we are very excited about.

“It’s indoors and outdoors, it’s city and county, it’s bearla agus gaeilge, and it’s in person and online. We are really looking forward to it and we very much hope that audiences will enjoy it.”

This year’s festival includes ten premieres and special commissions, such as Medicine, a new play from Enda Walsh, a new production of Happy Days performed in the Irish language in the stunning landscape of Inis Oírr and the stately home of the Abbey Theatre, and Seagull [after Chekhov], a VR experience from Brú Theatre and Thomas Kilroy.

Sruth na Teanga will explore the epic history and story of the Irish Language in a truly unique performance that combines live performance, puppetry, animation and an original score.

Embark on an adventure in this immersive theatre show, through worlds where the legendary Fianna, Ireland’s Golden Age, and the Great Famine all come to life.

The Mirror Pavilion will also be returning for the second half of the mesmerising creation of John Gerard, originally commissioned by Galway 2020 Capital of Culture.

Mirror Pavilion, Corn Work was experienced by over 120,000 people when it sat in the Claddagh last Autumn. Now, the second act, Mirror Pavilion, Leaf Work will open the Galway Arts Festival from Derrigimlagh Bog in Connemara on August 28.

The First Thought Talks series is returning with guests including Misha Glenny; Bonnie Greer; Noelle Browne; Sinéad Burke, Fintan O Toole, Peter Lunn and Dr. Teresa Lambe among others.

The 2021 Vinyl Hours series will see guests Philip King, Sinéad Burke, Niamh Regan and Brian Kerr, reveal their most treasured songs in special in-conversation events.

Six artists have also received bursaries from the Galway International Arts Festival for work across both live and digital platforms under the newly created Elevate programme, with works to be presented over this year and next.

Artistic Director Paul Fahy said, “We are thrilled at the prospect of live audiences returning to our theatres, galleries and other venues to experience great work in person from all our wonderful artists in addition to those who will join us remotely.”

“It is such an honour to work with so many brilliant creative artists and colleagues to deliver this programme and we are so grateful to them for their commitment, passion and brilliance.”

The full programme of the 2021 arts festival can be downloaded here.

NUIG staff and students urged to join rapid testing pilot scheme

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July 13, 2021

galway daily news Just one COVID patient in the ICU at University Hospital Galway

Staff and students at NUIG are being urged to volunteer for a rapid testing pilot programme to track and control COVID-19 in universities.

The UniCoV will conduct a large scale analysis of different testing technologies for COVID-19, such as rapid antigen testing, saliva-based PCR testing, and wastewater surveillance.

The results of this project are meant to help develop early warning systems for any future outbreaks on campuses.

Staff and students can enroll across four universities – NUI Galway, Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin and University College Cork.

Director of Public Health, HSE West Breda Smyth said “Students in Ireland have shown significant resilience in adapting to the challenges that COVID-19 has created.”

“However, evidence suggests both in Ireland and internationally this is not without adverse effects including reduction in academic performance, social isolation and deteriorating mental health and wellbeing.”

“UniCoV will inform surveillance systems to support the provision of safe campus environments and provide evidence to facilitate return to campus activity for staff and students in further and higher education institutes.”

Testing volunteers will provide saliva samples twice a week and drop them off at on-campus collection points. These samples will go through PCR or LAMP testing.

On the same day, those volunteers will take a self-administered rapid nasal swab antigen test, and upload a photo of their result from their phone to the secure unicov.org website

The UniCoV study will also include wastewater monitoring, with samples taken from the campus system, and analyses for the presence of Sars-Cov-2.

A live dashboard will provide anonymised aggregate information about each campus’ results.

Minister for Higher Education Simon Harris said that rapid testing may be an important part of the plan for a safe return to on-campus education at colleges and universities.

“This pilot project will help us learn more about different types of tests, how effective they are and if they can or should be used in higher education settings.”

“None of these replace the public health advice but could be additional weapons in our fight against COVID-19.”

Over 8,000 people are expected to take part in the study, and staff and students are being encouraged to signup.

Galway family’s camping cookbook gains worldwide acclaim

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July 13, 2021

Galway Daily food Galway family's camping cookbook proves summer sensation — Camping Soul Food, Photo Credit: Julia Dunin Photography

A Galway family has found worldwide fame for their foray into the literary world, with their 64 meal cookbook for campers nominated in the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards.

Camping Soul Food, created together by the Buggans family, has been nominated in three categories for the next Gourmand Awards – Family, First Cookbook, and Self Published.

The Gourmand World Cookbook Awards were founded in 1995 by Edouard Cointreau. Every year, they honour the best food and wine books, printed or digital, as well as food television.

There will be more than 80 countries and regions represented at this year’s awards, including many samplings from world renowned culinary areas.

Since being published in May of this year, Camping Soul Food has sold close to 3,000 copies, and is stocked throughout Ireland at independent retailers.

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Malachy “I’m an Author” Duggan of Camping Soul Food, said that the response to the family’s creative endeavor has been amazing.

“For something we only made to create a memento for Easkey to be nominated for three awards with the best in the business as well as representing Ireland, well that’s a dream come through.”

“We’ve just been letting the fact that well we are authors sink in now imagine how much craic we will have telling people we are recognised internationally for our tunes and food pairings! It is the best”.

The book idea was born after countless trips, which started with surviving on burgers and pasta-pesto, Carrie, Mal and Easkey (The Buggans Family) got more experienced and learned so much about cooking hacks with limited space, prioritising the fridge to store beers and refreshments, and how much more enjoyable brilliant tunes are when you’re outdoors with tasty grub.

The Buggans Family. Photo Credit: Julia Dunin Photography

What started out as a random collection of notes and scribbles and promises of “one day, we’ll write a book” has finally come to fruition, due in no small part to the year that 2020 was.

The dishes can be cooked anywhere that your travel and adventure take you. It could be just the back yard or local park.

All this food and music magic has been created by the Buggans family – a little family of three who love exploring in their campervan around Ireland.

To buy your copy of Camping Soul Food, check it out online here: indiegogo.com/projects/camping-soul-food-cookbook#/ or consult your independent bookstore.

Permission refused for Phase 1 of ‘Urban Village’ in Kingston

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July 13, 2021

Galway Daily news Permission refused for Phase 1 of 'Urban Village' in Kingston

Planning permission has been refused for a large scale commercial development in the Kingston area of Galway city, which was meant as the first phase of a new ‘urban village’.

Plans were submitted by 1 Kingston Land Limited for Phase One of a proposed urban village on the south side of the Western Distributor Road, across from the Gateway Retail Park.

The first phase of the proposed ‘Kingston Cross’ development would have consisted of a licenced supermarket with 258 spaces of undercroft car-parking. A total of 148 bicycle spaces were also included in this application.

Also in this application was a retail warehouse with 136 spaces of surface car-parking, nine retail units, two medical or community use units, and a café/restaurants.

Other works in the project would have involved landscaping works, including the creation of a civic space with play and exercise areas, a covered sports courts, and a new access route off the Western Distributor Road.

The council said that as the area which is the subject of this application is part of the designated District Centre in Rahoon and Knocknacarra, granting approval for development would be premature until an overall layout of the area is agreed on.

The report by the planning department said that the layout of the site in the application is identical to the one show at a pre-planning meeting, where a number of concerns were expressed and the developer was asked to further liaise with the council.

The proposed design and layout of the development was also criticised by the council, which said that it had “poor urban form”, lacked proper linkages between the two phases, and didn’t have the appropriate mix of uses required for the District Centre.

A lack of proper public open space was also raised, with the proposed communal spaces at the north of the site described as “incidental”, while the civic square would be limited in size and “entirely dominated” by the adjacent commercial units.

Including the play area and covered sports area with the proposed civic square was also unacceptable the city council said.

The other concerns raised by the council were that the project could interfere with future bus corridors, and that the developer hadn’t shown that they had “consent and sufficient legal interest” in lands overlapping with the neighbouring An Logan estate, which appear to form part of the planning application.

Phase 2 of this development was to focus on delivering the residential element of the urban village, focused along the south end of the site, along with additional open spaces.

Fixer-upper country house with massive grounds

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July 12, 2021