Lough Corrib has been badly affected by algae blooms around its shores, with some areas particularly strongly affected.

Galway County Council has said that “unseasonal warm and calm weather” is likely responsible for the algal blooms.

This has been reported on all shores of Lough Corrib. The areas reported to be worst hit are Kilbeg pier, Annaghdown, Oughterard, Birchall Bay, Glann shore, Derrymoyle Bay, Rinneroon Bay, and Golden Bay.

The county council has advised that some algae can produce toxins and their presence can potentially cause a risk to human and animal health.

People are advised to avoid contact with areas of shoreline and water which have been affected by algae, and not to swim in them.

Animals should not be allowed to drink water from affected areas, as it may pose a severe health risk.

If you do come into contact with the algal bloom, you should shower/ wash as soon as possible to remove algal matter. Wash all affected clothing and equipment thoroughly.

If you have any further queries regarding this notice, please contact Galway County Council Environment Section Tel: 091 509510 or email environment@galwaycoco.ie.

The Clifden RNLI recovered a submerged sailing boat spotted overturned in Clifden Bay on Wednesday after a call out from the Coast Guard.

A crew member had spotted the upturned hull of a boat in Clifden Bay, which also raised concerns for the sailor of the boat.

Given the short distance from the lifeboat station, Clifden RNLI Helm Joe Acton launched the Silinger boat to investigate. Joe was assisted on the shout by crew members Kenny Flaherty and Dan Whelan.

The vessel was located near the White Lady shoremark in Clifden Bay. It was a small sailing boat which had been in the water for some time and there was nothing to suggest a person was in difficulty.

The submerged boat was causing a navigational hazard for mariners accessing Clifden Bay, so the decision was made to tow it back to shore.

Speaking about the shout Helm Joe Acton said, “As the Winter draws and sea conditions worsen it’s important for anyone going to sea to wear a life-jacket, have a VHF radio or means of calling for help, check the tides and weather and ensure your vessel is sea-worthy.”

“Nobody intends to get in trouble on the water but always call 999/112 and ask for the Coast Guard at the first sign of distress, Clifden RNLI are ready to respond 24/7.”

Breast cancer research scientists at University of Galway have secured a new five-year €1.4 million project to drive the next generation of cancer care as part of Precision Oncology Ireland.

The research is funded by €700,000 from the National Breast Cancer Research Institute (NBCRI), which is matched by Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland.

Supported by the Galway University Foundation, the new commitment by NBCRI to breast cancer research at University of Galway builds on the Signature Partnership with the charity which was announced in May 2025.

It also reaffirms NBCRI’s focus on a research-informed approach to improving patient outcomes, delivered by cancer research experts.

The Precision Oncology Ireland programme will support research by Professor Róisín Dwyer, Professor Aoife Lowery and Professor Michael Kerin, all of whom are based at the University’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences and the Lambe Institute, linking translational and clinical research.

The new investment will enable translational breast cancer research, including:

• Investigation of the potential for treatment of advanced breast cancer using short sequences of RNA – the molecule in all cells which carries genetic codes.
• Identification of biomarkers to predict how patients will respond to treatment, to ensure they only receive beneficial treatments.
• Increasing understanding of factors that impact the quality of life of patients undergoing chemotherapy, such as treatment toxicity, anxiety, exercise.

The research partnership is part of Precision Oncology Ireland Phase 2 which was formally launched by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless T.D.

Precision Oncology Ireland is a consortium of universities, charities and international companies, collaborating to deliver next-generation cancer care in Ireland.

The new commitment, extending to 2030, expands the work progressed in the first iteration of Precision Oncology Ireland, cementing established research collaborations and developing new ones.

Professor Róisín Dwyer, Principal Investigator at University of Galway’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, led the application for the Precision Oncology Ireland research project on behalf of University of Galway and NBCRI.

Professor Dwyer said, “Precision Oncology Ireland-2 provides a unique ecosystem where experts from a broad range of backgrounds come together with a common goal – to improve quality of life and outcomes for cancer patients.”

“We are delighted to continue our involvement in this impactful consortium and look forward to contributing to development of approaches to ensure patients receive appropriate targeted therapies while minimising side effects.”

Caroline Loughnane, Chairperson of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute, said, “The mission of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute is to raise funds to support world-class breast cancer research at University of Galway.”

“We are delighted to match the funding from Research Ireland to support the Precision Oncology Ireland breast cancer research programme at the Lambe Institute.”

“Partnering with national research consortia and collaborators is critical for sharing knowledge to improve our understanding of breast cancer, with the goal of delivering better treatments for patients.”

The public in Galway is being invited to help shape a strategy to guide the county’s public libraries over the next five years.

Galway Public Libraries are inviting members of the public to participate in a short survey to help shape the future of library services across the city and county.

The feedback gathered will directly inform the development of a new 5-year strategic plan, ensuring that library services continue to meet the evolving needs of the community.

The survey takes approximately 5–7 minutes to complete and is open from 3rd to 13th November 2025.

All completed surveys will be entered into a prize draw for a €100 book voucher, as a token of appreciation for your time and insights.

Library users, community members, and stakeholders are encouraged to share their views on current services and suggest improvements or new ideas.

Your input will help Galway Public Libraries continue to provide inclusive, innovative, and responsive services for all.

Take the survey online here: Galway Libraries – Public Consultation Survey 2025

Galway Rape Crisis Centre (GRCC) has officially opened the doors to its new building and permanent home in The Claddagh, Galway City, marking a historic moment in the organisation’s more than four decades of service to the community.

The official opening took place on Monday, November 3, and was attended by Mayor of Galway, Councillor Mike Cubbard and Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan.

Together with the Board of Management, Executive Director and team, supporters, and members of the community, they celebrated a milestone made possible through years of dedication, advocacy, and the generous backing of those who believed in the Centre’s mission.

Founded in 1984, Galway Rape Crisis Centre provides vital, free, and confidential support to survivors of sexual violence and abuse across Galway and the western region. The move to a permanent home represents not only stability for the organisation but also a place of safety and dignity for all who need its services.

“This building stands as a testament to hope, to courage, and to community. For forty years, GRCC has walked alongside survivors, listening, supporting, and helping to rebuild lives,” explained Executive Director of GRCC Cathy Connolly.

“The creation of this new home was made possible by extraordinary generosity and belief in our work. It is more than bricks and mortar, it is a symbol of healing and of a society that refuses to turn away.”

The new building was realised through a combination of public funding, private donations, pro bono work and community support. Key donors and partners recognised the urgent need for a dedicated, purpose-built space to ensure GRCC can continue to expand its counselling services, outreach programmes, and education initiatives.

The Claddagh location, rooted in Galway’s heritage and sense of community reflects the Centre’s commitment to accessibility, compassion, and belonging. Designed to provide warmth, privacy, and a sense of calm, the building includes counselling rooms, group spaces, and areas for training and education.

Minister O’Callaghan acknowledged the essential work of GRCC and the importance of ensuring survivors have a safe and supportive place to turn to.

“The Galway Rape Crisis Centre plays a vital role in supporting victims and survivors of sexual violence and in challenging attitudes that allow such harm to persist.”

“Sexual violence remains a pervasive issue, affecting thousands across the country, and one of the key objectives in our ‘Zero Tolerance’ Strategy is to encourage victims and survivors to come forward, to access support and ultimately to report the crimes that are being committed against them.”

“I believe this new home for GRCC represents real progress in that objective, as well as compassion, and a collective commitment to justice.”

Mayor Mike Cubbard commended the resilience and leadership shown by the GRCC team and the people of Galway who have supported the Centre’s work for decades.

The opening of GRCC’s new home is both a celebration and a reminder of the ongoing need to support survivors, to educate, and to continue building a society grounded in respect and empathy.

To find out more log onto www.galwayrcc.ie.

The 2025 National Organ Donation Conference, themed “Conversations that Matter” recently took place in Galway and brought together healthcare professionals, donor families, and transplant recipients to reflect on a significant year in Ireland’s organ donation landscape.

The conference was organised by hospital-based Organ Donation Nurse Managers, who advocate for the potential organ donor and their wishes.

Over 100 critical care healthcare professionals from all health regions across the country attended to share experiences and reflect on best practices in organ donation and end-of-life conversations.

As part of the Irish Hospice Foundation’s Quality Improvement Initiative, Organ Donation Nurse Managers, in collaboration with the National Healthcare Communication Programme, created training videos designed to enhance end-of-life organ donation discussions in ICUs nationwide.

Winifred Ryan, HSE National Lead for National Healthcare Communication Programme said, “Healthcare delivery is fundamentally a social interaction, placing the patient at the core of its activities.”

“The need to communicate well is magnified in caring situations: when people are anxious, vulnerable or grieving, when they need to trust others to take care of them or their loved ones.”

“When they are trying to process information and make decisions based on this information. This has particular relevance in the context of organ donation, where communicating with families requires careful navigation of their emotions, wishes and concerns as well as the wishes of their loved ones.”

Donor families and transplant recipients shared their personal experiences, highlighting the human impact of organ donation on the day.

Martina Goggin, from the Strange Boat Foundation and Circle of Life Garden in Salthill, Galway, shared, “If we had not been asked about organ donation, we may never have considered it. At that time, all our focus was on Eamon making it through.”

“I also feel it is hugely important that whoever from the healthcare profession in the ICU speaks to the family does so with empathy and has full knowledge of the process so they can answer the questions that families may have.”

Alceina O’Brien, a transplant recipient, reflected on the lasting impact of her donor family’s decision.

“I often think of my donor family. While we were experiencing happiness, relief, and joy, there was another family, parallel to ours, grieving the loss of their loved one, who had made an incredibly difficult decision. I am truly grateful to my donor and their family.”

Tony Canavan, Regional Executive Officer, HSE West and North West, in attendance at the conference, said, “Last year, 263 organ transplants from Irish donors took place, a truly staggering number that reflects the compassion, skill, and selflessness of so many people.

“To all staff across hospitals and ICUs nationwide, thank you. The care you provide demands not only great expertise but also great sensitivity and you deliver that with consistency and dedication.”

“We’re also working in a time of significant change. The introduction of the Human Tissue Act this year is reshaping how we work and how we connect with patients and each other.”

“Conferences like this are vital. They help us learn, adapt, and continue to provide the highest standard of care.”

As Ireland moves forward under the Human Tissue Act, the National Organ Donation Conference continues to promote a culture of empathy, understanding and respect in all donation-related conversations.

Through education, collaboration, and shared experience, healthcare professionals reaffirm their commitment to ensuring that every conversation about organ donation truly matters for patients, families and healthcare staff alike.

Galway City will be lighting up for the festivities, with the city council investing more in the much loved Christmas lights that brighten the streets each holiday season.

Mayor Mike Cubbard, welcomed the announcement, stating, “Galway’s Christmas lights are a source of joy and pride for our community, and this year we’re going bigger, bolder, and brighter.”

“This investment reflects our commitment to supporting local businesses, celebrating our unique identity, and creating a festive atmosphere that welcomes everyone—from lifelong Galwegians to first-time visitors.”

“I want to thank my fellow councillors for backing this vision and helping light up Galway in a way that truly reflects the spirit of the season.”

This enhanced investment will fund a comprehensive programme of improvements and expansions to the city’s Christmas lighting, including:

• Extension of the Spanish Arch display, building on the success of the 2024 installation and further illuminating the historic core of the city.
• A new signature lighting piece at the Claddagh Basin, celebrating Galway’s maritime heritage with a striking, photogenic centrepiece
• A contemporary Christmas ‘tree’ installation at the Salthill roundabout, welcoming visitors and locals with festive cheer as they arrive to Salthill
• New lighting at the Small Crane, transforming this beloved neighbourhood square into a warm and inviting winter gathering space.
• Repairs and upgrades across the city, ensuring reliability, sustainability, and an even more magical atmosphere throughout the festive period.

This investment is being funded through the increased commercial rates applied in the city this year.

In addition to the new light, a programme of activities and events will be funded over the Christmas holidays and the New Year. This will include the family friendly New Year’s countdown event in the City Centre.

To complement the lighting enhancements, Galway City Council will also launch a ‘Shop Local, Shine Bright’ campaign, encouraging residents and visitors to support Galway’s independent retailers, cafés, and service providers throughout the Christmas period.

The campaign will include promotional materials, social media spotlights on local businesses, and festive events to drive engagement and community spirit in partnership with business groups in the city.

Chief Executive of Galway City, Leonard Cleary, stated that, “Galway’s Christmas lights are more than decoration—they’re a symbol of community, celebration, and economic vitality.”

“This year’s expanded programme is a direct reinvestment in our city centre and neighbourhoods, supporting footfall, local pride, and the magic that makes Galway so special during the festive season.”

In addition, Galway City Council is proud to sponsor the ‘Best Dressed Business’ competition in cooperation with Galway Chamber and Gaillimh le Gaeilge.

Local businesses across all sectors are invited to decorate their windows and shopfronts with festive, creative displays that capture the magic of Christmas in Galway. Participants are encouraged to include Irish language elements to celebrate our bilingual city.

Public voting will take place online, giving the community a chance to choose their favourite display and support local creativity. Winners will receive promotional features, prizes, and recognition for their contribution to Galway’s Christmas charm.

This friendly competition is designed to boost footfall, encourage community participation, and showcase the ingenuity of Galway’s business community.

An incredible new visitor experience has opened at Connemara National Park this month, with a unique heritage centre celebrating the world renowned Connemara Pony.

For generations, the much-loved Connemara Pony has been recognised as Ireland’s native breed, and this exciting new experience will pay tribute to the Connemara Pony’s valuable contribution to Ireland’s and Connemara’s heritage.

Connemara National Park has a long association with the Connemara Pony, as the first ponies arrived when the Park first opened in 1980, and are descendants of the Connemara Ponies that President Erskine Childers gifted to the Irish State in 1974.

The Connemara Pony Heritage Centre at Letterfrack was opened by Galway West John Connolly last Friday.

Speaking at the opening, Deputy Connolly said, “The Connemara Pony Heritage Centre is a great addition to Connemara National Park. It gives visitors a chance to learn more about the Connemara Pony, a breed that is closely tied to the history and identity of this region.”

“The ponies have been part of the Park since it opened in 1980, and now we have a space that properly showcases their story and their connection to the land.”

Free to visit seven days per week and accessible for all, this exclusive new centre will celebrate the Connemara Pony, its unique equine personality and contribution to Irish life, heritage and pony lovers worldwide.

The centre will share the exceptional history, legacy, tradition and culture of the beautiful Connemara Pony in story, narration and visual exhibits.

The incredible exhibits combine both digital and traditional imagery and film, along with potential immersive learning for all age groups from young children to adults.

All of this will, of course, be combined with meeting the beautiful Connemara Pony.

Eugene Finnerty, Regional Manager at Connemara National Park, said, “The Connemara Pony Heritage Centre is a seamless collaboration between the staff at Connemara National Park who provide strong support and huge commitment to our natural and cultural heritage.”

“The team have invested time, energy and incredible initiative into this project, combining their talents, knowledge and expertise to create an exciting and captivating Centre dedicated to the Connemara Pony.”

“It will be an excellent educational and inspiring addition to both life, learning and tourism in Connemara, Galway and on the Wild Atlantic Way.”

“Providing wide appeal to locals, Galwegians, domestic and international visitors and of course Connemara Pony lovers from all over the island of Ireland and across the world.”

At the height of the summer season, visitors will have the excitement of meeting a Connemara Pony up close within the centre.

They will learn from expert Cathy Snow and through a highly interactive and innovative exhibition about the importance of this pony breed and what makes them so special, both in Ireland and across the world.

For all details on the new Connemara Pony Heritage Centre at Connemara National Park, please check out www.nationalparks.ie

Heavy rain is forecast for Galway tonight and throughout Monday, as Met Éireann has issued a weather warning for four counties.

The Status Yellow weather warning for Galway, Clare, Mayo, and Kerry will be in effect from 8pm Sunday until 8pm Monday.

From tonight, Galway can expect to see persistent rain, turning heavy at times.

Possible impacts include localised flooding and difficult travelling conditions with poor visibility.

Highest afternoon temperatures today of 9 to 12 degrees in moderate to fresh southwest winds.

A man in his 30s was killed in a car crash near Tuam in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The single-vehicle incident occurred on the L2107 at Cappadavock, at approximately 4:30am.

The sole occupant of the car, a man in his 30s, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Coroner was notified, and the deceased has since been removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Galway, where a post-mortem examination will be arranged.

The road remains closed at the scene, which is preserved pending a technical examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. Traffic diversions are in place.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to contact them.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were traveling on the L2107 between 4:00am and 6:00am are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Tuam Garda Station on 093 70840, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda

A pedestrian in his 80s has died after being hit by a car near Claregalway late on Friday night.

Gardaí and emergency services were called to the scene of a collision on the N83 in Loughgeorge last night.

The collision occurred when a car struck a pedestrian shortly after 11:30pm at Peake, on the Tuam Road in Loughgeorge.

The pedestrian, a man in his 80s, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Coroner was notified, and the deceased has since been removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Galway where a post-mortem examination will be arranged.

The driver of the car, a man in his 20s, was brought to hospital for assessment; his injuries are not described as life-threatening.

The road remains closed at the scene, which is preserved pending a technical examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. Traffic diversions are in place.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to contact them.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were traveling in the area at the time are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Galway Garda Station on 091 538000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

The much-loved Western Alzheimer’s Super Draw is back for another fantastic year of fun, community spirit, and incredible prizes.

Join Phyllis Molloy & Friends, the dedicated local fundraising committee in Galway, as they host this special annual event in support of Western Alzheimer’s.

This incredible organisation provides essential care and support to individuals and families living with Alzheimer’s and Dementia across the West of Ireland.

• Date: Tuesday, November 18th, 2025
• Time: 11:00am – 12:30pm
• Venue: Galway Golf Clubhouse, Salthill

Supporting a Cause That Matters

Each year, this remarkable Tea Day & Draw raises over €25,000 to support the vital services Western Alzheimer’s provides throughout Galway and the western region.

These funds go directly toward respite care, home support, and day care services for families affected by Alzheimer’s, ensuring help and hope remain close to home.

Amazing Prizes Up for Grabs!

This year’s Super Draw promises an incredible lineup of prizes, generously donated by local businesses and supporters. Be in with a chance to WIN:

• 2 Nights B&B + 1 Dinner at the School House Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin
• 2 x Tickets to the Headline Act at Galway Arts Festival 2026 + Dinner for 2 at The King’s Head
• Painting of Blackrock Tower by renowned artist Michael McWilliams
• Normende 40″ Smart TV – courtesy of Peter Murphy Electrical
• 1 Night Dinner + B&B for 2 at Abbeyglen Castle Hotel, Clifden
• Monster Luxury Hamper – sponsored by Mor Oil

This year, tickets for the draw can be purchased online via iDonate, and your name will be entered straight into the drum for the big day.

Tickets for the draw cost €5 each, or €20 for five. Ticket sales close at midnight, November 17.

Galway’s Connemara Seafoods was one of the top Irish companies attending Asia’s largest seafood expo in China this week.

Minister of State with responsibility for Fisheries Timmy Dooley is joining the delegates from Bord Bia attending the China Fisheries and Seafood Expo 2025.

Minister Dooley is leading an agri-food trade mission to China this week to strengthen commercial and government-to-government relationships across Ireland’s main export sectors, including seafood, meat and dairy.

As part of the trade mission, Bord Bia is hosting nine Irish seafood companies at the China Fisheries and Seafood Expo 2025, which runs from October 29th–31st at the Hongdao International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The Expo, recognised as Asia’s premier seafood trade event, is expected to attract around 50,000 professional visitors from over 130 countries.

Minister of State Timmy Dooley commented, “China represents one of the most important growth markets for Irish seafood, particularly for our premium shellfish and pelagic species.”

“This week’s trade mission and participation at the China Fisheries and Seafood Expo provide valuable platforms to showcase Ireland’s seafood offering, build commercial partnerships, and reinforce Ireland’s strong reputation as a supplier of high-quality food products.”

“I’m 10,000 kilometres from home and proud to be here flying the flag with companies from Killybegs to Castletownbere — supporting Irish businesses as they grow and compete on the international stage.”

Ahead of the Expo, Bord Bia and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine co-hosted a seafood trade reception in Qingdao, bringing together Irish exporters with key Chinese seafood importers, distributors, and industry partners.

The event aimed to deepen business relationships and identify new trade opportunities for Irish seafood in the Chinese market.

Speaking in Qingdao today, Bord Bia’s recently appointed China Manager, Sinéad Kennedy, said, “Irish seafood enjoys an excellent reputation internationally.”

“Chinese consumers are seeking premium imported seafood, and Ireland’s reputation for safety, traceability, and high-quality produce positions our exporters strongly.”

“The number of Irish seafood exporters supplying the Chinese market is growing year on year, which is very promising for the industry.”

China continues to be a priority market for Irish seafood, with increasing demand for premium species across both e-commerce and foodservice sectors.

Traditionally, the Chinese market has been important for the export of Irish pelagic fish, but in recent years, significant efforts have been made to develop opportunities for premium shellfish such as crab and langoustine.

“Chinese consumers can order online and have fresh Irish seafood delivered to their doors within 30 minutes, which is remarkable,” Ms Kennedy added.

In 2024, Ireland exported approximately 157,000 tonnes of seafood to more than 70 markets worldwide. Total exports were valued at almost €600 million, representing an increase of 9% on 2023.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses after a woman in her 80s died following a car crash near Carraroe, Connemara, on Friday morning.

Gardaí and emergency services responded following a report of a single-vehicle collision which occurred at Bóthar Buí at approximately 9:00am.

A female passenger (80s) was brought by ambulance to University Hospital Galway, where she has since passed away.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to contact them.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) who were travelling at Bóthar Buí between 8:45am and 9:15am on Wednesday 22nd October 2025, are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact An Clochán/Clifden Garda Station on 095 22500, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

A very special and unique cultural and visitor experience will be revealed in Connemara National Park with the opening of the Connemara Pony Heritage Centre.

The unique new cultural and visitor experience will be revealed by Galway TD John Connolly at the opening on Friday afternoon.

For generations, the much-loved Connemara pony has been recognised as Ireland’s native breed.

This new and exclusive experience will pay tribute to the Connemara Pony’s valuable contribution to Ireland’s and Connemara’s heritage with the creation of “The Connemara Pony Heritage Centre”.

Free to visit, seven days per week and accessible for all, including wheelchair users, this exclusive new centre will celebrate the Connemara Pony, its unique equine personality and contribution to Irish life, heritage and pony lovers worldwide.

The centre will share the exceptional history, legacy, tradition and culture of the beautiful Connemara Pony in story, narration and visual exhibits.

The exhibits will combine both digital and traditional imagery and film, along with potential immersive learning for all age groups from young children to adults.

All of which will be combined with meeting the beautiful Connemara Pony.

Galway City received a Gold Medal at the Supervalu TidyTowns National Competition 2025 last Friday, with a big improvement on last year’s score.

This result was a major endorsement for the work of Galway City’s TidyTowns Committee, volunteers, city centre businesses, and Galway City Council Litter Management crews, Biodiversity Officer and Environment staff.

The overall winner of Tidiest Town 2025 was Carrick-on-Shannon in Leitrim, with 400 points. Galway City Centre came close with 376 points awarded in 2025.

This is the first gold medal for Galway City Centre in the Tidy Towns National Competition, having previously achieved three bronze medals and four silver medals in the competition.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard, said, “It’s great to see Galway City recognised at the TidyTowns National Competition this year with a gold medal.”

“Our crews are out on the streets from 5am every morning, getting the city ready for a new day – with power washing, bin collection and biodiversity and environmental education initiatives on-going throughout the year.”

“Galway City Council is proud to partner with proactive businesses and volunteers in Galway City TidyTowns to make the submission on behalf of our city, and it’s great to see this work recognised at the national level”.

The TidyTowns competition is a national competition organised by the Department of Rural and Community Development.

The competition embodies positive community engagement, with businesses, residents, community groups, schools, colleges and environmental groups collaborating to care for Galway City.

Chair of the Galway City Centre Tidy Towns Committee, Cllr. Níall McNelis said, “I am delighted to see the hard work of the TidyTowns Committee, local businesses and Galway City Council be reflected in this year’s scores.”

“This year’s TidyTowns submission captured the creativity in our public spaces and the work that’s been done on biodiversity in our parks.”

“I look forward to seeing our scores rise again in next year’s competition as the hard work of TidyTown’s Committee and everyone involved continues.”

This year, 929 towns were competing for the prestigious awards, demonstrating the continuing huge national interest in the SuperValu TidyTowns competition.

TidyTowns has been running since 1958, and this year saw the highest number of entries ever received in the competition’s history.