Minister Rabbitte welcomes increase in funding for local development

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May 4, 2024

galway daily news reach for the stars astrophotography launch 2024 — Stephenie Brophy Lee, Technical Officer, Astronomy and Astrophysics section at DIAS; and Jeremy Rigney, Lindsay PhD Scholar at DIAS and Armagh Observatory and Planetarium. Pic: Marc O'Sullivan

Photography and astronomy fans in Galway have just six days to submit their entries for the annual ‘Reach for the Stars’ astrophotography competition.

Organised by the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS), the competition is seeking the best astrophotographs taken in Ireland between 28 April 2023 and 10 May 2024.

Commenting on the approaching deadline, Dr Eucharia Meehan, CEO and Registrar of DIAS, said that the 2024 deadline is fast approaching and that they are delighted to see the entries coming in.

“The addition of a new category this year inviting entries taken on smartphones is a great opportunity and I encourage anyone in Galway who has an interest in astronomy and the night sky to get out there and get involved,” said Dr Meehan.

“You don’t have to be a professional photographer to appreciate our night sky, you don’t need to own a telescope – we just ask that you follow the competition guidelines carefully to ensure your images meet the criteria.

“I would really encourage people in Galway to get out with their cameras or phones over the next week, before the closing date.”

Competition Details

Entries to the ‘Reach for the Stars’ competition will be judged by Professor Peter Gallagher, Head of Astrophysics at DIAS, along with Brenda Fitzsimons, Picture Editor of The Irish Times; John Flannery, Vice-President of the Irish Astronomical Society; and Niamh Breathnach, Director at Alice Public Relations.

Entrants may submit up to two images per category to the competition. The deadline for entries is 5pm on Friday, 10 May 2024. Submissions can be made across five distinct categories:

Night Sky in Your Hand – Images taken with only a smartphone, and without telescopes, of an astronomical scene.

Out of this World – Planetary: Images of the planets, sun and moon.

Out of this World – Deep Sky: Images of celestial objects that exist outside our solar system such as nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies.

Back on Earth – Landscape: Images that depict a feature of astronomical interest as a prominent feature and elements such as nature, land or water.

Back on Earth – Landmark: Images that depict a feature of astronomical interest as a prominent feature and elements such as cityscapes, buildings, houses, historical structures or monuments.

The winning photographers across the different categories will receive various prize packages that include: passes to the three sites of the Astronomical Observatories of Ireland – Dunsink Observatory (Race to Space Escape Room), Armagh Observatory and Birr Castle Demesne; vouchers for photographic / telescopic equipment; and digital subscriptions to The Irish Times.

It is DIAS’s intention that the winning and highly commended images will also be included in an exhibition at DIAS during 2024.

Furthermore, all shortlisted images will be included in an online exhibition – for the purposes of the public vote – on the competition website reachforthestars.ie.

DIAS’s ‘Reach for the Stars’ competition is being run in partnership with The Irish Times, and is sponsored by Alice Public Relations and the Astronomical Observatories of Ireland. The Irish Astronomical Society are initiative supporters.

Lucky Connemara woman wins holiday in Gala giveaway!

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May 4, 2024

galway daily news holiday winner from co. galway — Store manager Michelle Nic Dhonnacha, winner Isabel Newman and retailer Anna McDonagh at McDonagh Gala

Isabel Newman from Connemara has been chosen as the lucky winner of Gala Retail’s Home or Away store promotion, scooping a holiday voucher worth €2,500.

Gala Retail launched the promotion in celebration of 25 years of serving communities, and has been delighting its loyal customers, across the country, with the chance to win one of 25 holiday vouchers.

Running throughout February and March, the promotion offered shoppers the opportunity to enter by spending over €10 in any of the participating Gala Retail stores.

Entrants had the chance to win one of 10 family holidays abroad, valued at €4,000 each, or one of 15 holiday vouchers for unforgettable Irish staycations, each worth €2,500.

Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala Retail, reflected on the significance of 25 years of loyal custom in Gala stores.

“We are delighted to kick-start our 25th year in business with a huge thank-you to our loyal Gala shoppers,” he said.

“This giveaway is our way of expressing our gratitude and giving back to the community that has supported us throughout the years.

“From staycations in Ireland to fun filled, family adventures abroad, there are so many exciting opportunities and we’re thrilled to see our customers creating unforgettable memories with family or friends.”

The Home or Away promotion, which ran from February 5th to March 17th, received overwhelming participation and support from customers across the country.

Gala Retail collaborated with Ireland Hotels and the ‘Go Anywhere’ gift card to offer the home vouchers, aimed at promoting local hospitality and creating memorable experiences in Ireland for winners. For more information, visit: www.gala.ie/news

Health services preparing for May Bank Holiday weekend

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May 4, 2024

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

Health services in the West and North West wish to remind the public of all their care options ahead of the May Bank Holiday weekend.

HSE West and North West has plans in place across its hospital and community services to ensure patients can access the care they need in the right setting.

Additional GP out-of-hours services will operate across the region over the bank holiday.

Pharmacies are also on hand to provide support and advice throughout the long weekend.

Typically emergency departments see higher attendances over bank holiday weekends.

Teams will continue to work closely to assist patients move as quickly as possible through the hospital system if they require hospital care.

This includes actions to support patients avoid ED admission, improving the experience of patients while in ED, ensuring effective movement within the hospitals and timely discharge to community services and other care supports.

Injury units treat injuries that are not life-threatening, such as broken bones, dislocations, sprains, wounds, scalds and minor burns.

Tony Canavan, Regional Executive Officer, HSE West and North West urged the public to consider all care options.

“As we approach this Bank Holiday weekend we know that our hospitals tend to get busier with increased numbers of attendances and so we are asking people to consider all of the options that are available to receive care.

“GP out-of-hours services, local pharmacists and indeed injury units are all available to provide care and support to those who need it. And of course if you do need if you do have a genuine emergency do go to your local hospital where you will receive care,” he said.

Details of injury unit locations and what they can and cannot treat are available here hse.ie/injuryunits.

If you urgently need to see a GP outside of their clinic hours, GP Out of Hours information is available on the HSE website here https://www2.hse.ie/services/find-a-gp-out-of-hours/.

Man missing in the west for more than three weeks found safe

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May 4, 2024

Galway Daily news missing teen found safe

A young man missing in the west of Ireland for more than three weeks has been found safe and well.

Lucas Pereira (28) was reported missing from Ennis Co, Clare last month.

Gardaí made a public appeal stating he had last been seen in Ennis on Wednesday, April 10.

An Garda Síochána has now confirmed that Lucas has been found safe and well.

Food truck stolen overnight in Knocknacarra

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May 3, 2024

A food truck was reported stolen overnight in the Knocknacarra area of Galway City this week.

The Everything I Like Food Company shared on social media that their food truck had been stolen overnight on Wednesday.

The truck was stolen from the Clybaun Road area of Knocknacarra.

“Hello, good people! Our food trailer was stolen last night from Knocknacarra, Clybaun Road. Can you please keep your eyes open and message me if you see it? Thanks”

Gardaí investing shots fired at home in Galway City

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May 3, 2024

Galway Daily news Man dies after car goes into the water

Gardaí are investigating after shots were fired at a house in Galway City late at night this week.

Gardaí responded to reports of a gun being discharged in the Castle Park area of Galway at approximately 11:00pm on Wednesday.

A shot was fired at a residence, causing damage to the property. No persons were injured in the incident.

Investigating Gardaí in Galway are appealing to any person who may have information in relation to this incident to contact them.

Anyone who was in Castle Park and the surrounding areas on Wednesday 1st May between 10:30pm – 11:30pm and who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) is asked to make this footage available to Gardaí.

Any person who may have information or footage is asked to contact Galway Garda Station on 091 538 000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Confirmed case of measles in the West as close contacts notified

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May 2, 2024

The HSE is currently investigating a confirmed measles disease in Co. Mayo, with close contacts being identified and notified.

The case, which concerns a child, was reported in late April, and anyone who develops symptoms is being urged to stay at home and to phone their GP for advice.

Dr Emer O’Connell, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, said that measles can be a serious illness and is highly infectious.

“One person with the disease can infect 90 per cent of the people around them who have not been immunised,” she said.

“The best protection is to be fully vaccinated with two doses of MMR vaccine.”

Measles symptoms include a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above, cold-like symptoms, sore red eyes, rash (which usually appears on the head and neck first and then spreads to the rest of the body), and vomiting, diarrhoea or tummy pain.

The MMR vaccine can prevent measles in over 90% of immunised children, following a single dose of the vaccine.

With the second dose of MMR vaccine, over 99% of immunised children are protected from measles infection.

Those born in Ireland before 1978 or have had measles are unlikely to require vaccination, as they are probably immune.

Children should receive their first dose of MMR vaccine aged 1 and a second dose in baby infants when they are 4 or 5.

There is also a free catch-up MMR option via participating GPs for those who may have missed their vaccination when younger.

Galway native excels in All Ireland Scholarships Creative Writing Competition

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May 2, 2024

Aran Islands native Surnaí Molloy has been selected as the overall winner of the 2024 All Ireland Scholarships Creative Writing Competition for her short story Rites of Passage, and her story Mouse was also awarded third place.

She was presented with the Roger Downer Award at a special awards ceremony in Adare Manor on Tuesday.

The competition, now in its fourth year, is open to all members of the All-Ireland Scholarships Alumni Association. The categories included fiction, non-fiction and op-ed, with a maximum word count of 2,000 words.

This year’s judging panel comprised a stellar panel of award-winning authors: Roddy Doyle, Marian Keyes, Donal Ryan and winner of the 2023 competition, Emma Corcoran.

The judging process was chaired by Sarah Moore Fitzgerald, Professor of Teaching and Learning at the University of Limerick.

Surnaí received the All Ireland Scholarship Award in 2017 and holds First Class Honours BA in Mathematics and English with Creative Writing from the National University of Ireland, Galway, and an MLitt in Modern and Contemporary Literature and Culture from University of St Andrews, Scotland. She currently works as the Digital Editor of Parabola Magazine.

Speaking about her winning entries, Surnaí said: “When I finished my MLitt in 2023, I decided to be brave and try to establish myself as a writer, which is why I entered the All Ireland Scholarship Alumni Creative Writing Competition.

“Winning this competition is the most wonderful encouragement; a much-needed confirmation that I’m on the right path.”

Marian Keyes described Rites of Passage as being written with an insistent rhythm, which gathers force as the piece continues.

“The way it’s written mirrors the steady accumulation of daily aggressions women are met with. As the piece progresses, each new violation stacks up on the previous, building to an intolerable weight. It’s truthful and powerful.”

Roddy Doyle further described Surnaí’s winning piece as, “an excellent story; chilling, frightening; very well told”.

Genesys supporting cycling in the workplace

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May 2, 2024

Galway based software company Genesys has achieved European accreditation for its effort to be a cycling friendly employer.

Genesys Cloud Services was awarded the European Cycle Friendly Employer Certification at the Gold level for its Galway office by Cycle Friendly Employer Ireland.

The European standard from the European Cyclist Federation recognises the interplay between human behaviour and the need for facilities, infrastructure, and products to enable active travel cycling in the workplace.

Genesys is situated in the Bonham Quay building in Galway. As part of its commitment to sustainability and achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, Genesys promotes cycling participation among its strategies.

The workplace enables cycling with superior cycle parking, changing facilities and security at its location, supported by employees taking part in annual awareness campaigns including bike week and world car free day.

Annual travel surveys evaluate employee behaviour to further encourage increased cycling to reduce the impact on the environment. Genesys is the first employer in Galway to achieve European Cycle Friendly Employer certification.

“We are proud to achieve this certification, which ties together Genesys’ commitment to enterprise sustainability with our belief in providing a great employee experience.”

“This recognition is a testament to the ongoing and successful efforts of the Genesys team in Ireland that has regularly landed us among Ireland’s Best Workplaces”, added EJ Cay, VP of UK & Ireland at Genesys.

“With transport emissions being Ireland’s highest energy related emission the European cycle friendly standard cuts organisations transport emissions while demonstrating an employer’s commitment to sustainability and employee health.”

The Europe Cycle Friendly Employer certification connects behavioural change and habit formation, increasing the number of employees who cycle to work and use cycling for business travel instead of cars.

It acknowledges the critical role of human behaviour and the necessity for access to facilities and infrastructure, offering a structured framework and roadmap for organisations to adopt.

Developed in 2015 with the support of the Intelligent Energy Europe Programme from the European Commission, the framework aligns with the goals of the European Commission’s European Green Deal and Ireland’s Climate Action Plan to reduce transportation emissions.

It supports those businesses which are required to comply with the new European Union law the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).

Certification is an action within Ireland’s National Sustainable Mobility Policy by the Department of Transport.

Second season of popular music TV series in Galway’s Black Gate

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May 2, 2024

The second series of the collaborative music programme “Cumasc” produced by Black Gate Productions is available now on TG4 player.

CUMASC: Seisiúin sa Black Gate blends beautiful musical collaborative performances with intimate observational documentary and candid interviews.

Over 12 episodes, a variety of emerging and established talents – both Irish and international – come together in celebration of creative exploration and expression.

Each episode concludes with the performance of a new piece of music; the result of collaboration between our immensely talented artists.

Traditions, genres, and imaginations merge seamlessly and joyously throughout. Entertaining, captivating, connective.

Featuring beautiful collaborations across 12 episodes filmed in the heart of Galway city, blends gorgeous concert film with intimate observational documentary and interviews.

“We brought musicians of diverse traditions together for one day, in a merging of musical cultures and creative freedom” said series director Mia Mullarkey.

“We asked them to create two pieces, and ‘Cumasc’ is what unfolded. While filming the series, I had incredibly rich conversations with renowned musicians such as Iarla Ó Lionáird, Zoë Conway, Renaud Garcia Fons and John Francis Flynn.”

“It was a great pleasure observing masterful artists weaving their melodies and traditions together, listening to their insights on the emotions, the craft, the heritage of music.”

“I have no doubt that music-lovers are going to feel moved and inspired when they get to watch Cumasc Season 2.”

Cumasc has creative energy at its core, and in each episode we watch the magic unfold, as performers develop new music together.

Featuring Irish and International acts such as: Iarla Ó Lionáird, Cormac McCarthy, Matthew Berrill, Zoë Conway, Renaud Garcia-Fons, Róisin Chambers, Casper Clausen, Susan O’Neill & Phil Christie, Olesya Zdorovetska, Rónán Ó Snodaigh, Myles O’ Reilly, Brìghde Chaimbeul, Jack Talty, Naomi Berrill, Molly O’Mahony, Niamh Regan & Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh, Pauline Scanlon, Caoimhe Hopkinson, Austin Walkin’ Cane, Róis, Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin, Saileog Ní Cheannabháin & John Francis Flynn, Ríoghnach Connolly, Sidiki Dembélé and Shunya.

Cumasc is a series that allows us to experience the creative nexus of musical collaboration, by bringing us to the centre of those powerful moments where invention meets imagination.

This is a loving portrait not only of musical traditions shared across borders and oceans, but of the limitless potential of the creative spirit.

E-waste being dumped alarmingly incorrectly in Galway

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May 2, 2024

Leo Donovan- CEO WEEE Ireland 1 — Leo Donovan, CEO of WEEE Ireland who hss conducted research which shows that one in eight people continues to dump small electrical items in household bins. This figure almost doubles among younger age groups. Photo: Paul Moore

One in eight people in Galway continues to dump small electrical items in household bins, new research has shown.

And this figure almost doubles among younger age groups, which are perceived as more environmentally conscious.

One in four 18-24-year-olds and one in five aged 35-44 get rid of common household electrical items such as smart watches, earbuds and blue tooth speakers in general waste bins.

This is from a survey conducted by Empathy Research on behalf of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ireland.

Laptops, mobile phones, gaming devices, power tools and e-cigarettes are also being tossed in alongside other waste, meaning they can never be re-used or recycled.

The proliferation of products powered by lithium batteries heightens these dangers, increasing fire safety risks for household waste collection companies.

In the past five years, WEEE Ireland reports a 100% increase in lithium battery powered small electricals coming back for recycling.

The residents of Galway have consistently played a significant role in Ireland’s electrical waste recycling efforts, with 2721 tonnes of e-waste collected in the county during 2022 alone.

This translates to a recycling rate of 9.84kg per person in the county, but below the national average of 10.33kg per person.

“For those that recycle their e-waste, our survey shows 75% do so due to its positive impact on the environment, with over 50% citing concerns over the hazardous components present in some of these devices,” said Leo Donovan, CEO of WEEE Ireland.

“Despite this awareness, a significant number still opt to dispose of their waste electricals improperly, particularly when it involves smaller devices.”

“Ireland’s impressive record for recycling larger household electrics needs to be matched when it comes to small electricals to ensure the safe and efficient recovery and reuse of materials they contain.”

“Recycling these items is both free and straightforward, as they can be dropped off at numerous, authorised recycling centres and public collection days across Ireland.”

The Irish Waste Management Association (IWMA), whose members collect 95% of household waste in Ireland, echoed these concerns, highlighting the increased fire safety risks posed by lithium batteries in e-waste.

“If electronic waste containing batteries is placed in any of the household bins, it can become an ignition source for fires.”

“That poses a risk to life as well as a threat of environmental pollution, so we ask people to always keep electronic waste out of their household bins.” said Conor Walsh, Secretary of the Irish Waste Management Association (IWMA).

The low recycling rates for small electrics are echoed in global statistics, with the recent Global E-Waste Monitor revealing that less than one quarter (22.3%) of e-waste was properly recycled in 2022, falling sharply to just 12% for small devices.

In addition, a recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) study in Ireland revealed that over two-thirds of recyclable waste, including valuable electronic components, are wrongly discarded in general household and commercial bins.

“The demand for critical raw materials contained in electrical devices is expected to skyrocket,” said Mr Donovan, as he emphasised the urgent need to meet forthcoming EU targets and secure sustainable sources of critical raw materials.

“The EU’s aim to ensure that by 2030, at least 30% of critical raw materials consumed annually originate from European recycled sources underscores the imperative for swift and decisive action.”

“Failure to address these pressing challenges not only risks our environmental and public health but also undermines our collective aspirations for a greener, more sustainable future.”

Details of hundreds of local recycling centres, public collection days and participating retailers for all sizes and types of waste electrical, battery and lighting can be found on weeeireland.ie.

Unveiling the Best Online Free Mockup Tools for Design Enthusiasts

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Thomas O'Brien

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May 2, 2024

In the dynamic world of graphic design, mockups play a crucial role in visualizing design concepts and showcasing them in a realistic manner. As technology advances, you can easily find the best online free mockup tool just for you, like Genera. It provides designers with a plethora of options to choose from. This article will guide you through the process of finding the best online free mockup tool that suits your needs, preferences, and skill level.

Determine Your Mockup Requirements

To create an effective mockup, it’s essential to determine your specific requirements. This process involves considering factors such as the project’s goals, target audience, design elements, and technical aspects. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you determine your mockup requirements:

Define the Project’s Goals. Clearly outline the objectives of your design project. This could include communicating a specific message, promoting a product or service, or showcasing a brand’s identity. Understanding the project’s goals will help you tailor your mockup to meet those objectives effectively.
Identify Your Target Audience. Consider who your mockup is intended for. Understanding your target audience’s preferences, demographics, and behaviors will help you make informed decisions about the design elements, layout, and style of your mockup.
Choose the Appropriate Design Elements. Based on your project goals and target audience, select the appropriate design elements such as typography, color schemes, images, and graphics. Ensure that these elements align with your branding guidelines, if applicable, and are consistent with the overall design concept.
Determine the Mockup Format and Size. Decide on the format and size of your mockup, considering factors such as the medium it will be displayed on (e.g., digital screen, print material) and the aspect ratio. This will help you create a mockup that is visually appealing and suitable for its intended purpose.
Consider Technical Requirements. If your mockup will be used for web or app design, ensure that it is compatible with different devices and screen resolutions. For print materials, consider factors such as bleed, trim, and color management to ensure a high-quality final product.
Establish Design Constraints and Deadlines. Set realistic constraints and deadlines for your mockup project. This may include budget limitations, timeframes, and any software or tools you need to use. By setting clear constraints, you can focus your efforts on creating a mockup that meets your requirements within the given parameters.

By determining your mockup requirements, you’ll have a clear roadmap for your design process, ensuring that your mockup effectively communicates your design concepts and meets the project’s objectives.

Research and Compare Online Free Mockup Tools

Once you’ve identified your mockup requirements, conduct thorough research on various online free mockup tools. Some popular options include:

Placeit
Smartmockups
Mockup.Online by Genera
Canva
Gravit
Figma

Compare the features, user interface, available templates, and ease of use for each tool. Read user reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the performance and reliability of these tools.

Assess the Learning Curve

Consider your familiarity with graphic design software and tools. Some online free mockup tools may have a steeper learning curve than others, requiring more time and effort to master. If you’re new to graphic design, opt for user-friendly tools that offer intuitive interfaces and easy-to-follow tutorials.

Evaluate Templates and Customization Options

A good online free mockup tool should provide a wide range of templates and customization options to help you create unique and professional-looking designs. Assess the variety and quality of templates offered by each tool and check if they cater to your specific design needs.

Check Compatibility with File Formats and Integrations

Ensure that the online free mockup tool you choose supports the file formats you commonly work with, such as PSD, AI, or PDF. Additionally, consider the tool’s compatibility with other design software and platforms, as this can streamline your workflow and enhance collaboration with clients or team members.

Explore Additional Features

Some online free mockup tools offer additional features that can enhance your design experience. These may include:

Collaboration tools for teamwork and client feedback
Access to design assets like images, icons, and fonts
Integration with social media platforms for easy sharing
Animation capabilities to create interactive mockups
Cloud storage for saving and accessing your work across devices
Mobile apps for on-the-go design and mockup creation

Assess the Reliability and Support

A reliable online free mockup tool should have minimal downtime, consistent updates, and prompt technical support when needed. Check the tool’s uptime record and read user reviews to gauge its reliability. Additionally, consider the availability and responsiveness of the tool’s customer support team.

Consider the Tool’s Monetization Strategy

While you’re looking for an online free mockup tool, it’s essential to understand its monetization strategy. Some tools may offer basic features for free but charge for advanced functionalities or access to premium templates. Be aware of any limitations or restrictions that come with the free version and decide if they align with your project requirements.

Test Drive the Tool

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, sign up for the free versions of the selected mockup tools and test them out. This hands-on experience will help you determine which tool best suits your needs and preferences. Pay attention to the user interface, ease of use, and overall performance during the testing phase.

Seek Recommendations and Feedback

Reach out to fellow designers, join online design communities, and participate in forums to gather insights and recommendations from experienced professionals. Their experiences and feedback can provide valuable information on the best online free mockup tools and help you make an informed decision.

Conclusion

Finding the best online free mockup tool requires thorough research, evaluation, and testing. By considering your mockup requirements, assessing the features and customization options, and understanding the tool’s monetization strategy, you can identify the most suitable option for your visual projects. Don’t forget to explore additional features, test drive the tools, and seek recommendations from fellow designers to make an informed decision.

Ultimately, the best online free mockup tool for you will depend on your specific needs, skill level, and preferences. By following these guidelines and continually exploring new tools, you can enhance your graphic design workflow and create visually stunning mockups that effectively showcase your design concepts. Remember, the key to success in design lies in staying updated with the latest tools and techniques, and always striving to improve your skills and creativity.

How to Claim Irish Tax Rebates: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Angela Mc Bride

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May 1, 2024

Galway Daily business NUI Galway launching free tax clinic to help students

Claiming Irish tax rebates is a simple process, and you could be missing out on hundreds of euros if you don’t know how it works. Here’s a step-by-step guide to claim your tax rebates in Ireland.

January or February after the end of the previous tax year is generally considered to be the best time to apply for a tax rebate. The tax year runs from 1 January to 31 December – the normal calendar year.

You can actually claim for refunds for up to 4 years ago though. PAYE taxpayers can now also claim relief on some expenses such as health expenses in real time during the year.

This essentially means that you don’t have to wait until the end of the tax year to get what you’re owed.

If you are a PAYE taxpayer, there are six steps to make a claim for Irish tax rebates.

1. Log on to Revenue’s myAccount
2. Under PAYE Services, click on ‘Review your tax’
3. Request a Statement of Liability
4. Click on ‘complete income tax return’
5. Claim additional tax credit, relief or expenses
6. Submit your form

When making a claim for rent tax credits, you must try to give as much information as possible to make the process as simple as possible for Revenue.

This includes having your Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) number for your tenancy at hand before beginning the application.

By completing your Income Tax Return in your official Revenue myAccount, you can claim for the credit for 2022 and 2023.

To do this, follow these simple steps:

You must log in to your account on the Revenue.ie website.
You should click on ‘Review your Tax 2020-2023’ under the section labelled‘PAYE Services’.
Then you request a ‘Statement of Liability’ for whatever year you wish to claim for.
Click on the‘Complete your Income Tax Return’ button.
Select ‘You and Your Family in the ‘Tax Credits & Reliefs’ page. Then click on ‘Rent Tax Credit’.
Complete the claim process that follows.
Submit the Income Tax Return and wait for a decision.

If you wish to submit a claim for 2024, the process is similar, but slightly different.

For PAYE taxpayers, you can claim the credit during the year in myAccount, for rent paid in 2024.
You will need to sign into your ‘myAccount’ and go to the ‘PAYE Services’ section. Then click ‘Manage Your Tax 2024’ and ‘Add new credits’. Under the ‘You and Your family’ section, claim the Rent Tax Credit.

All of the relevant information on how to apply for an Irish tax rebate, how to apply and what information you will need to complete the simple process can be found on the official government Revenue website, which is well laid out and simple to follow.

Many people put off submitting their claim until it is too late, so make sure you follow these steps to find out whether you are due some money back from the taxes paid over the past four years!

Static speed camera to be deployed on N59 in Galway

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May 1, 2024

Galway Daily news National Slow Down Day traffic operation after road deaths

An Garda Síochána will be deploying a static speed camera on the N59 in Galway which is expected to be operational by the end of the year.

The speed camera will be located on the major road between Moycullen and Galway City.

The Gardaí have announced nine new static speed camera locations as part of an effort to curb speeding and road deaths.

The cameras will be located on the N59 (Galway), N25 (Waterford), R772 (Wicklow), N14 (Donegal), N80 (Carlow), Dublin (Dolphin’s Barn), N17 (Mayo), N22 (Cork), and N69 (Limerick).

The locations were selected based on fatal and serious injury collision data from the last seven years and speed data, as well as feedback from stakeholders.

The nine static speed cameras are being funded from the Garda budget at a cost of approximately €2.4 million over the next 18 months.

These cameras will join the average speed cameras for the N3 (Butler’s Bridge), N5 (Swinford), and N2 (Slane), which are expected to be operational in early Q4 2024.

There are also 55 safety cameras currently operated via GoSafe vans; this will increase to 58 in the coming weeks.

Speaking today Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman said, “Static speed safety cameras have been proven in other countries to be highly effective in changing driver behaviour and reducing speed, which is a key contributor to road deaths.”

“Speed cameras slow drivers down. The lower speeds people drive at, the lower the number of road deaths.”

According to the Institute of Transport Economics, Norway, there were statistically significant reductions in collisions within 1 km downstream and 100 metres upstream of a static speed camera location.

Gardaí say that the average speed cameras on the M7 and Port Tunnel have already proven effective in reducing speed.

As with GoSafe vans, drivers detected by static speed cameras breaking the speed limit on that road will be automatically issued a fixed charge penalty notice.

Cellisimo 2024 – Three week countdown to Ireland’s most exciting new music festival

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May 1, 2024

In just under three weeks’ time, cello enthusiasts, classical aficionados, music and arts lovers will gather in Galway in their thousands for the start of Cellissimo, Ireland’s brand-new international cello festival.

Taking place from Saturday, May 18 and running for nine glorious days and nights, Cellissimo promises festival-goers the absolute best in music, performance, talks, masterclasses, theatre, gaming, film and so much more!

Cellissimo encompasses twenty-seven concerts across Galway city and county, with more than 500 musicians, performers, composers, singers, dancers, actors, storytellers, game designers and speakers from Ireland and across the world taking part.

With community celebrations, student-focused events, a film screening, a gaming event with live score, a mystery cello trail on Inishbofin Island, a photography exhibition and a melting pot of Irish trad and classical sounds at the late-night Festival Club at HYDE Hotel each evening, the West of Ireland is the only place to be this month

This new festival at the Edge of Europe will showcase all that Galway has to offer, from incredible local dining and the very best of Ireland’s café and bar scene, to the breathtaking vistas of mountain and sea that await as you venture out from the city itself.

Magical Musical Lineup

Giants of the classical world from home and abroad who will make the journey to Galway for Cellissimo include conductor and composer Eimear Noone, cellists Alban Gerhardt, Camille Thomas, Nicolas Altstaedt, Jakob Koranyi, Killian White, Adrian Mantu and Natalie Clein, sopranos Rachel Croash and Claudia Boyle, pianists Daria van den Bercken, José Gallardo, Finghin Collins and Hugh Tinney, violinists Bogdan Sofei and Barnabás Kelemen, percussionist Alex Petcu, clarinettist Macdara Ó Seireadain and dance artist Stephanie Dufresne.

Also featured in the lineup are Ireland’s National Symphony Orchestra, the Irish Chamber Orchestra, the dynamic performers of Cello Ireland and many more.

Down the phones and kick back at the Classic Hour series, a three-part programme of classic duos for cello and piano featuring Alban Gerhardt and Hugh Tinney; Killian White and Daria van den Bercken; and Natalie Clein with the festival’s Artistic Director Finghin Collins.

Or get your contemporary cello fix with six new cello works commissioned by Music for Galway from six Irish composers, which will be premiered daily alongside its partner Bach Cello suite during the Bach Plus Series, performed daytime in St. Nicolas Collegiate church in the heart of Galway city, then transported to stunning venues across county Galway for a repeat performance the same evening.

The Cellissimo Spectacular will lift the roof off Leisureland, with a glorious cacophony of sound celebrating the talent and enthusiasm of cellists of all ages and abilities.

Elsewhere, French cellist Camille Thomas will present The Story of the Cello at Black Box Theatre, in her debut performance with the Irish Chamber Orchestra.

And don’t miss the incredible German French cellist Nicolas Altstaedt in his long-awaited Galway debut, alongside Hungarian violinist Barnabás Kelemen and the Argentinian pianist José Gallardo, for a programme with Eastern European vibes.

Music fans can peak behind the scenes at cello student life and sit in on eight fascinating masterclass events which will take place at Nun’s Island Theatre throughout the festival.

Meet the new wave of upcoming cellists from across Europe at The Student Showcase Concert and enjoy The Cellissimo Ambassador Evening at the Town Hall Theatre, where Mullingar cellist Catherine Cotter will pass guardianship of the beautiful Music for Galway’s Galway Cello to the next Cellissimo Ambassador, who will be crowned on the night.

Also at Town Hall Theatre, hundreds of young people will enjoy a week of brilliant children’s theatre with a new show commissioned with the award -winning children’s theatre company Branar.

“The Song of the Trees” is a new and original performance combining live music and storytelling, narrated by Little John Nee, with Neil Martin on cello, devised and directed by Marc MacLochlainn.

At the heart of Cellissimo is the Songs of Travel programme, an open and inclusive forum exploring the power of music and the arts to tell the stories of those whose lives, families, homes, and futures have already been deeply and irreversibly impacted by climate change.

Songs of Travel, a three-year trans-national Creative Europe Cooperation Project, ideated and led by Music for Galway CEO Anna Lardi, will feature five events at Cellissimo including five world premieres by acclaimed composers, many of whom have experienced and lived the impacts of climate change and/or migration in their own immediate lives.

Music for Galway is incredibly honoured to present the new work of Djuro Zivkovic (Serbian-Swedish), Hawar Tawfiq (Iraqi Kurdistan – Dutch), Lasse Thoresen (Norwegian) and Karmit Fadael (Dutch – Israeli).

In reaching new and expansive audiences, the Songs of Travel programme also features a brand-new game from Austria’s Causa Creations, with new music composed by Elaine Agnew (Northern Ireland).

The festival opens on the afternoon of Saturday May 18 with an exciting collaborative community project Galway Bay is Calling, enabled by the Creative Climate Action fund, an initiative of Creative Ireland, led by Music for Galway in partnership with Galway Atlantaquaria and Atlantic Technological University.

Galway Bay is Calling will take place in Leisureland and will feature a new composition by Galway-born, Florence–based cellist, composer, and singer Naomi Berrill, performed by more than one hundred singers, musicians, and performers from Galway Jam Circle, Voice of Galway, and Galway Camerata.

For the full programme of events, the most up to date event news, the best way to experience Galway and to purchase tickets for all Cellissimo events, see cellissimo.ie

€750,000 funding boost for Gort, Maree, and Dunmore

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May 1, 2024

Gort (1) — The town square in Gort, County Galway. Photo: Galway County Council.

The communities of Gort, Dunmore and Maree have received a major funding boost of €750,000 under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.

Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys announced the funding for Galway County Council this week.

Separate funding allocations of €250,000 have been granted to the Streetscape Enhancement Scheme for Gort Town Centre, for essential renovations to Maree Community Centre, and the upgrade and renewal of Dunmore Hall in the historic north Galway village.

The Gort scheme allocation has been warmly welcomed by the local community and follows an application by the Gort Town Team with the support of Galway County Council’s Town Regeneration Officer.

Working with the Gort Town Team, the local authority says it will shortly launch a grant incentive scheme for property owners and tenants in the town centre.

This will assist in the restoration of traditional shopfronts, paint the façade of properties, upgrade lighting in a sensitive manner and declutter premises.

Individual Property Owners and Tenants in the designated streets will be able to apply for funding to directly upgrade their shopfronts.

“The funding award is a result of actions set out in the Gort Town Centre First Plan, as a short-term proposal which could have a huge beneficial impact on the local economy and will facilitate business and residents to work together to improve the overall appearance of the town centre,” explained Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway, Cllr Liam Carroll.

“I am delighted to see direct investment from the Town and Village Renewal Scheme for projects that have come from local communities and the volunteers and local leaders who have tirelessly managed local facilities.”

“Maree community centre provides much needed service for older people in the community to socialise and take part in community activity as well as indoor sporting and meeting facilities, and this investment will allow the Group to procure needed repairs and upgrades to continue their work.”

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive Galway County Council commented, “These projects are all about making our rural towns and villages great places to live, work and raise a family.”

“I want to thank the local communities who brought forward these proposals and worked with our staff in Town Regeneration and in Rural and Community Schemes to develop applications to the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.”

“I look forward to seeing work move now to direct grant offers to the communities and project move to procurement stage for capital works.”

Jackie Carroll, Director of Services said, “The three local projects in receipt of funding will help to breathe new life into their respective communities and we look forward to works getting underway in the coming months.”

“The investment is being provided to Galway County Council under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme with a particular emphasis on the revitalisation of rural town centres, which is a key objective of the Our Rural Future and Town Centre First Policies.”

Conan O’Brien makes TG4 debut on Tuesday evening

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April 30, 2024

Conan O'Brien makes TG4 debut on Tuesday evening

Renowned US TV Host and Comedian, Conan O’Brien makes his Irish TV Drama debut with TG4’s series Ros na Rún on Tuesday evening.

Ros na Rún’s village rogue and publican, Tadhg Ó Direáin is faced with a feisty delivery man who’s having none of Tadhg’s arrogant nonsense.

Standing his ground is Conan O’Brien, the new Ros na Rún delivery man is certainly no push over for Tadhg, as a war of words is declared between the two in Tigh Thaidhg.

Loyal fans of Ireland’s only rural based TV drama will have to watch and see if Vince gets his balloons for his party and if publican Tadhg throws the legendary TV personality Conan O’Brien out of his pub.

Conan O’Brien and HBO Max visited Ireland in January to record one of their unique travel shows as part of the Conan O’Brien Must Go series.

His primary focus was to trace his family roots in Limerick while taking in some of Ireland’s most unique features.

High on the priority list for O’Brien, who consistently declares his Irish heritage, was to speak Irish and have a cameo role on the leading TG4 drama series Ros na Rún, now in its 28th Season.

“Getting to work with the cast and crew of ‘Ros Na Run’ was a delightful highlight of my trip to Ireland, and I apologize in advance for inadvertently butchering my Mother Tongue,” Conan said.

Ros na Rún Series Producer, Marion Ní Loingsigh and her production team were thrilled to cast Conan O’Brien upon his request.

Never shy of a challenge Ros na Rún script writers, producers and directors created a fun script for the world famous comedian.

Featuring along side Ros na Rún’s Tadhg Ó Direáin, the “ delivery man”, Conan O’Brien, certainly gave as good as he got and Ros na Rún’s audiences will now be keen to find out who wins out.

Vince, played by Paul Mc Closkey, has once again been let down by Tadhg as part of the cameo story while Bobbi Lee, played by Annamaria Nic Dhonncha has another reason to wrap Tadhg on the knuckles over this debacle.

“We were beyond thrilled to host Conan O’Brien”, says Mairead Campbell Ros na Rún, production manager.

“Two stalwarts of TV on either side of the Atlantic, deeply rooted in their respective Irish heritage and culture, and bringing our beautiful Irish Language and Ros na Rún, TG4’s drama series, to a brand new world wide audience, we could not have had a better start to 2024.”

Aoife Raftery set for Rally Islas Canarias debut – the rally that inspired her international motorsport career

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April 30, 2024

Galway's Aoife Rafferty will be burning rubber at Rally Liepāja in Latvia — Aoife Raftery and Claire Williams in Poland. Photo Credit: Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy

Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy driver Aoife Raftery will get the opportunity to compete in the event that inspired her to follow an international motorsport career for the first time this weekend.

Rally Islas Canarias, the second round of the FIA European Rally Championship is scheduled for May 2 to May 4.

The Craughwell-based driver is in her second year of Junior FIA European Rally Championship competition.

Aoife Raftery made her motorsport debut in July 2021 and concentrated on Irish and British events for her first two seasons before venturing to Europe in 2023.

While always a motorsport fan she was never sure what direction to take until witnessing top-flight European rallying for the first when she attended Rally Islas Canarias as a spectator in November 2020.

Watching one of her all-time motorsport heroes, the late Craig Breen and soaking up the atmosphere of a European Championship event convinced Raftery that this was the career path she wanted to follow.

“I have very fond memories of Rally Islas Canarias. Back in 2020 when I came over to watch I remember being so impressed by the whole set-up of the ERC and the standard of rallying and I remember meeting with different drivers,” she said.

“I knew it was something I really wanted to give a shot at and it is where the beginning of the conversations started in terms of myself beginning to compete in the driver’s seat.”

Raftery arrives at Rally Islas Canarias on the back of her best performance to date at FIA European Rally Championship level.

Following a successful debut season in 2023, she returned to the Junior FIA European Rally Championship this season at the wheel of a PCRS Rallysport-prepared Peugeot 208 Rally4.

Raftery put the experience gained last year to good use at Rally Hungary, the opening round of the 2024 campaign.

The first and so far, only female driver to be selected by the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy narrowly missed out on her maiden category podium by 6.1 seconds following a fine drive on the event’s challenging gravel stages.

It could so easily have been a third-place finish for Raftery had she not been forced to nurse her Peugeot 208 Rally4 through the final loop of stages after the car was damaged in a heavy impact on SS10.

“We had a great result in Hungary and we showed some great determination getting the car to the finish,” she added. “We did our best to hold on to third but unfortunately while trying to manage different issues after doing some damage we slipped to fourth.”

“It was really great to see our improvements from last year and the plan is to continue working hard and try to see some results on the podium this year.”

Rally Islas Canarias is an all-tarmac closed road event, but Raftery feels more at home on gravel and loose surface events.

“I am looking forward to the fast and windy roads of the Canaries. It is very different to the roads we would have experience on, but we will do our best to make good notes, have a good pre-event test and feel confident going into it,” she said.

“I do enjoy the gravel [like Hungary] and it is quite a lot of fun and I like the feeling I get from it. We are in the Canaries to learn these style of [asphalt] roads and hopefully see some good stage times over the weekend with a focus on improving on each stage.”

Raftery will be co-driven by County Antrim’s Hannah McKillop on Rally Islas Canarias.
The crew have worked together in the past, including the recent Rally Hungary and on national events in Spain where they were regularly competing amongst the Rally4 class front-runners.

Their result in Hungary means they arrive in the Canaries holding fourth place in the Junior FIA European Rally Championship.

The Irish crew are the third seeds in the Junior category and will also start as one of the favourites in the Ladies category where they will face drivers like Cristiana Oprea (Romania – Opel Corsa Rally4) and Ekaterina Stratieva (Bulgaria – Peugeot 208 Rally4)

The rally, which is based in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, begins with a short spectator stage on Thursday night ahead of two days of intense competition across a further 12 special stages.

After nearly 200 km of competition, the event will draw to a close around 6 pm local time on Saturday.

Plans progressing for new Elective Hospital at Merlin Park

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April 30, 2024