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Down the hatch – 1520 launches takeaway menu!

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily food & drink 1520 takeaway service

With the countdown to the reopening of the hospitality industry in a matter of weeks, a number of popular bars are giving a preview of the summer days to come

One of the bars which has been a very welcome return to business is 1520 Bar on Quay St, with a new general manager Marty McKay overseeing operations, and a mouth watering menu from new Head Chef Brian Collins.

The takeaway menu includes Pulled Lamb Cubano, slow cooked lamb should marinated in herbs and citrus, and served with ciabatta bread, swiss cheese, mustard mayo, and salsa verde, all given a stovetop toasting.

The cheekily named The Dogs ‘Pollocks’ consists of a crispy panko coating on pollock hot dog, and served on a Brioche bun with the house’s secret seafood sauce.

For those who love a cheese toastie, the 3 Cheese Stovetop Toastie is sure to be a decadent delight, combing as it does Dubliner Chedder, smoked Brie Valley cheese, and Brandon Vale Mozzarella, all served on sourdough bread.

These are just some of the dishes on the menu that also includes melt in your mouth beef Cheeky Carnitas, King Oyster hotdogs, and homemade cookies with ice-cream to wrap up the meal.

Of course you don’t come to a pub for a takeaway just for the food, and any meal you order at 1520 came come with a takeaway pint of Heineken or Guinness.

Or, as we move towards days, why not try something from the frozen cocktail menu: Strawberry Daquiri, Pina Colada, and Summer Slushie, as well as Red or White Sangria.

The 1520 takeaway service is open Thursday to Sunday from 12:30pm to 7:30pm in the evening.

Virtual event to get everyone and their dog moving for MADRA!

By
Michael Malone
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galway daily news madra event dogs
Ben the Collie

Dog rescue charity MADRA has organised a virtual event in a bid to get everyone and their dog moving after the annual Dogathon event at the Claddagh was cancelled due to the pandemic.

On Saturday, May 29 the MADRA team along with its army of volunteers and ambassadors will be lacing up their runners and clipping on their dog leads to run, skip, walk or dance 5 or 10 km.

The charity is encouraging everyone to get involved, regardless of their fitness ability or wherever they are in the world.

“Sadly this year, it’s not possible for us to hold our annual Dogathon event at the Claddagh in Galway,” said Gillian Hunter of MADRA.

“So, we’re doing things a little differently this year. We are so lucky to have so many incredible supporters in all corners of the world, and so, we are encouraging you all to join us from a distance, and help us raise vital funds for the rehabilitation of the most vulnerable and delicate dogs in our care.”

As was the case for many charities, COVID-19 has brought many challenges for MADRA. There has been a huge strain on resources while the demand for dogs at an all time high since last April, and MADRA’s kennels are still full of overwhelmed, under-socialised dogs and dogs with long-term medical issues.

A fantastic team of trainers work around the clock offering the highest level of care, patience and some intensive training to prepare the dogs for a new life.

The charity has said that all donations – no matter how big or small – make an incredible difference in helping to ensure the most gentle path to recovery for the dogs in their care.

Entry starts from €20 for individuals / €40 Family for entry and all participants will receive a bespoke #DoingItForTheDogs medal and a completion cert.

Registration is available at https://www.madra.ie/doing-it-for-the-dogs/

Ransomware attack causing serious disruption in Galway hospitals

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Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news HSE attack: Gardaí urge potential victims to make contact

The ransomware attack against the HSE which prompted the shutdown of IT systems for containment purposed today is causing serious disruptions to hospital services in Galway.

People attending University Hospital Galway, Merlin Park Hospital, and Portiuncula University Hospital are being advised to expect delays due to the attack, and some services have seen appointments cancelled.

All outpatient x-ray, CT and MRI appointments have been cancelled, as have Radiotherapy appointments at University Hospital Galway.

However, in general terms outpatient, chemotherapy and maternity appointments are continuing and where appointments are cancelled, patients are contacted directly.

Any patients attending clinics or the emergency department today can expect delays due to IT systems not being in use.

Time consuming manual workarounds are in place while the IT systems are not in use, and some telephone systems have also been affected.

The Saolta Group is asking people not to attend the emergency department if their problem is not urgent.

Ransomware is type of malware that encrypts the files it infects, denying the owner of them access. A ransom is then typically demanded to regain access.

The HSE became aware of a ransomware attack on some of its systems overnight, and informed the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), which activated its crisis response plan.

The NCSC has said it is “intensively engaging” with the HSE, and using its resources to help identify the affected systems, and bring all systems back online.

Three friends take on mighty 1,000 km challenge for Breast Cancer Research

By
Michael Malone
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GALWAY daily news breast cancer research nui galway
Three friends, Georgia Mellotte from Westport, Sinead Bourke from Cashel and Louise Lynch from Macroom who are taking on a walk/run, 1,000km challenge in May in support of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute.

Three friends have taken on a challenge to walk and run a combined distance of 1,000 kilometers during the month of May to raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Research Institute based in Galway.

Georgia Mellotte from Westport, Sinead Bourke from Cashel and Louise Lynch from Macroom are all studying nutritional sciences in UCC, currently on placement at nutrition company Glanbia in Kilkenny.

The three students had more spare time than usual during the pandemic, so they decided to put it to good use by taking on the fundraising challenge during May and help support breast cancer research.

Their goal equals the distance of the Ireland Way, a hiking trail which runs the length of the country from Castletownbere in Cork to the Giants Causeway in Antrim.

But due to COVID restrictions, their 1,000 km challenge will be taking place around the streets of Kilkenny.

One in 11 Irish women will be diagnosed with breast cancer before 75 years of age with over 3,500 cases diagnosed annually, and monies raised will go directly to support the breast cancer research team lead by Professor Michael Kerin, based at the Lambe Institute, NUI Galway.

Speaking about the fundraiser, Sinead Bourke said, “We have chosen this charity as it is one close to our hearts and we are hoping that those who come across the campaign can make even a small donation to our GoFundMe page and contribute to helping women across Ireland by supporting the breast cancer research team.”

To find out more about the 1,000km challenge and help support breast cancer research check out their GoFundMe page.

COVID-19: Four deaths and 425 new cases reported

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news Galway hospitals see COVID cases double in recent weeks

There have been another four deaths related to COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health today, along with 425 new cases.

Of the deaths notified today two occurred this month, one occurred in February, and the last happened in January.

No county breakdown of the daily cases is available today.

There has now been a total of 4,941 COVID-19 related deaths in Ireland, and 254,870 confirmed cases of the disease.

Validation of data at the HPSC has resulted in the denotification of five confirmed cases, which is reflected in the national total.

The median age of the cases notified today is 29 years old, and 78% of cases are in people under the age of 45, while just 4% are in people over 65 years old.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said “Many of us have fond memories of our time in school, particularly the traditional celebrations that mark the formal end of in-school learning like graduation ceremonies for sixth-year students.”

“I am aware that this is an important time in the lives of young adults as they take a break from studying for an evening to celebrate with friends.”

However, he said that this year it is not possible to for such events to take place, and urged students not to go to any graduation events.

“It is very important that all students preparing to sit state exams in June take the necessary precautions now to ensure you do not contract COVID-19, particularly in the last remaining days before the commencement of the Leaving Cert.”

Professor Philip Nolan said that the incidence rate is stable, while improvements are being seen hospital and ICU admissions.

“The data also reveals the positive effects of vaccination, not only incidence in the over 65 age groups below the national average and rapidly declining, but we are seeing a very large discrepancy in the probability of being hospitalised or dying.”

“It is clear that vaccination not only decreases infection but also decreases the severity of any disease that breaks through.”

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

Rent Pressure Zone rules not being adhered to in Galway Threshold warns

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Briain Kelly
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Rent pressure zone rules are simply not being adhered to in Galway housing charity Threshold has said.

After the publication of the latest Daft.ie Q1 Rental Report, the national housing charity said that it highlights that renters and prospective buyers are in an “impossible situation.”

The average cost of renting in Galway County is now €995, a 6.7% increase on last year, while it costs €1,400 on average to rent in the city, 6.1% higher than this time last year.

CEO of Threshold, John-Mark McCafferty said that they are “seriously concerned” about the affordability of renting for single people.

He cited the even greater increases seen in the cost of renting a room in Galway, which increased even more dramatically than

The average cost of renting a room in Galway City Centre increased 16.2% in the past year, while the cost of a single room is up 18.6%

“Given that Galway City is a designated Rent Pressure Zone, it is yet more evidence that the RPZs are not being adhered to,” John-Mark McCafferty said

“With the current Rent Pressure Zone legislation due to expire later this year, clarity is needed sooner rather than later as to what they will be replaced with.”

“Not only is it necessary to sustain a form of rent regulation, measures are needed to bring rents down nationally and increase the level of housing that is affordable, not just based on two-income households earning in excess of the average wage.”

Karina Timothy, Western Regional Services Manager at Threshold said “Young, single people and couples who have had to rely on the Pandemic Unemployment Payment must find a property within the HAP or rent supplement limit – these properties are virtually non-existent.”

“For example, the HAP limits in Galway City are only €575 for one adult and €650 for a couple, but the average rent in the area is €1,400, up 6% from a year previously.”

“This means that these tenants may be forced to pay their rent out of their PUP allowance and will struggle to make ends meet.”

Even aside from the cost of renting, there is also a severe problem with a lack of available properties Karina said.

Only 305 properties were available across all of the Connacht-Ulster region in the Daft report, down 50% on last year and the lowest level since 2006.

Galway United Unveils Partners for 2021: iSupply, Midwest Fire & Security, and Jigsaw

By
Angela Mc Bride
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Galway Daily sport Galway United East United partnership

iSupply as the Official Print Partner

iSupply has once again announced that it would continue sponsoring Galway United. The announcement was made by the Managing Director of iSupply, Louis Donnellan, and Commercial Manager of Galway United, Francis Kelly, several days ago. The deal will see iSupply continue being the Official Print Partner for Galway United.

‘It feels great to see a committed local Galway business such as iSupply recognising our efforts to improve the football sport’s scene. Our club’s success has always been linked to the success of our local community supporters and local businesses. My interaction with Louis confirms that their ambitions to build a successful company matches our vision to see United grow to the next level” Francis Kelly, Commercial Manager Galway United.

“We as iSupply have been involved with Galway United for over two decades. This new deal is proof enough we continue to be excited by our association with United for all these years through sponsorship. We have had a hard time of late, but supporting a club like United is crucial. We are eager to see our club at the top once again!” Louis Donnellan of iSupply.

iSupply, a media company based in Galway, provides whole business solutions in print, vehicle branding, sign, and design services in Ireland and internationally.

Midwest Fire & Security as Official Platinum Partner

Galway United is in ‘safe’ hands after unveiling Midwest Fire & Security as its Official Platinum Partner for the 2021 season. The company has been serving the wider community within Galway City for over a decade. The Managing Director of Midwest Fire & Security, Peter Mernagh, says that he is delighted that his company will be part of the Galway United family for this season.

However, the connection between Galway United and Midwest goes beyond commercial association. Noel Mernagh, an uncle to Midwest’s Managing Director, is one of Galway United’s legends as he played for six consecutive seasons in the 1980s. He would later come back in the 1990-91 season where he played for the entire 90 minutes during the famous 1991 FAI cup, where Galway United won over Shamrock Rovers in Lansdowne Road.

Quoting Peter Mernagh, Managing Director, Midwest Fire & Security, “Midwest team is delighted to renew our partnership with Galway United. This a club that we enjoy supporting, and we are ready to fuel its future. We appreciate the efforts of John, Francis, and the board. Midwest has experienced steady growth over the last decade, and we are happy to see Galway United work with growing businesses to support Galway companies and promote the local community”.

Francis Kelly, Commercial Manager, Galway United, “The team at Midwest have been close to all the action that happens at the Eamonn Deacy Park. Having them commit to sponsoring our club is a testament to the support and belief surrounding the team this year. We are delighted to have the Midwest team onboard.”

Jigsaw as chosen Charity Partner

Galway United has announced that it will be partnering with Jigsaw, a youth mental health charity, in the 2021 season. Jigsaw advises, supports and offers a listening ear to young people aged 12-25 years in Galway and across Ireland. Galway United FC will make donations to Jigsaw and work with the charity on various fundraising events.

Galway United announced that all digital match day programmes’ sales proceeds would be channelled to Jigsaw. There are a series of initiatives that have been planned over the year as part of the collaboration to help management, players, coaches and schools.

Conor McCormack, Galway United’s 1st team captain, said that he was honoured to be part of the partnership with Jigsaw and the ambassadorial position that comes with it. He said that mental health is very important in modern society when people are going through a lot, especially due to Covid-19.

Sponsors and partners have always had a strong impact on this club’s performance over the years. Galway United FC will be facing the 6th placed Cobh Ramblers F.C. on 1st May 2021. United will then battle it out with Bray on 7th May 2021, and gambling fans can predict how much they are likely to make from these matches using a betting calculator. These two matches mean a lot to Galway United as it can see they can see it rise in ranks or drop.

County Council allocated €166,500 for Inis Mór road resurfacing

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Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news €760,000 funding allocated for road improvements on Inis Mór

Galway County Council has been allocated €166,500 in funding for three road resurfacing projects on Inis Mór.

The funding announced on Thursday includes €90,000 for the resurfacing of Bóthar Cill Mhuirbhigh, Bothar lar Airne, and the ‘Low Road’.

In total these works will involve resurfacing 8,350sqm of roads on the island.

The funding for Galway County Council is part of a €1.1 million package announced by the Department of Rural and Community Development for islands off Cork, Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Donegal.

This will be used for capital works such as road resurfacing, repair works to piers and slipways, and works to combat coastal erosion.

The largest share of the pot is going to Mayo County Council, where €747,000 will be spent on eight projects on Clare Island, Inishturk, and Inis Bigil.

Announcing the funding, Minister Heather Humphreys said that it was part of a commitment towards investing in “critical infrastructure” in offshore communities.

“The funding will allow the relevant Local Authorities to undertake improvement works on the islands. These improvements will greatly benefit these communities, as well as those visiting these beautiful locations.”

“Our coastal islands are an integral part of the State’s heritage and hold a wealth of cultural tradition. Funding for these projects further demonstrate the Government’s commitment to supporting our island communities.”

The Minister added that a second round of funding will be announced shortly after the evaluation of projects currently being considered.

More than 200 bikes stolen in Galway last year

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Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news More than 200 bikes stolen in Galway last year

More than 200 bikes were stolen in Galway last year, and Gardai are reminding the public to take extra precautions in locking their bicycles.

From the start of 2020 up to April 23 of this year, there were a total of 6,845 bicycles stolen across the country, of which 2,139

There were 208 bikes reported stolen in Galway in 2020. This year, from January 1 to April 23, another 23 bicycles were stolen.

Of the bicycles that were reported stolen in Galway last year, only 51 were later recovered. And of those reported so far in 2021, 15 have been recovered.

Crime Prevention Officer in the Galway Garda Division Sgt Michael Walsh said, “We are appealing to all bicycle owners to ensure they lock their bikes as securely as possible when they are not in use.

“Anecdotally, more people are cycling since the start of the pandemic and this is to be welcomed.”

“Schemes like cycle to work offer great opportunities to those taking up cycling but it does mean people are investing in more expensive bikes.”

“Therefore, it makes sense to invest in quality locks to prevent bike theft. A good quality lock would involve spending 10% to 20% of the value of the bike on two locks. On average this would amount to €140/€150.”

In many instances, even when Gardaí do recover a bike it cannot be returned to its owner because the serial number was not recorded.

Of the bicycles stolen since January 2020 only 1 in every 5 bike owners were able to provide their bicycle frame / serial number when reporting the theft to Gardaí. This causes problems reuniting bicycles with their owners.

Sgt Walsh added, “Take a photo of your bike. Note the serial number, which is located on the underside of your bike close to the pedals. Email the photo and serial number to yourself or store it on the cloud, so you will always have a record of it.”

COVID-19: No further deaths, 17 new cases in Galway

By
Michael Malone
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Galway Daily news 25 percent drop in COVID cases in Galway hospitals

The Department of Health has reported 17 new cases of COVID-19 in Galway this evening.

A total of 456 new cases nationally were confirmed by health officials and no further deaths related to the disease were reported.

The 14-day incidence rate in Galway is 66.7 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, with 172 new cases confirmed in the county in the past fortnight.

Dublin has the highest number of newly reported cases today (189) followed by Cork (52), Donegal (49), Kildare (39), and then Galway (17).

There are 111 people with the virus in hospitals across the Republic as of this morning, of whom 36 are in ICUs.

Sinn Féin launch survey on illegal dumping in Galway

By
Michael Malone
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galway daily news illegal dumping county galway

Galway East Sinn Féin have launched a survey asking for people’s views on illegal dumping across the county.

The party’s representative in Galway East Louis O’Hara has called on people across Galway to take part in the survey and have their voice heard.

He says that illegal dumping is a blight on our communities and that it is frustrating for the vast majority who pay for their waste collection.

“It is a growing problem, and it is estimated that illegal dumping has increased by up to 25% across the state since the beginning of the COVID pandemic,” said Louis O’Hara

A number of incidents of dumping have occurred in recent weeks – in Ballygar a JCB and flatbed truck had to be used to clear an illegal dumping site, and in Derryfadda Bog near Ballyforan 97 bags of rubbish were gathered during a clean-up of illegal dumping there.

Mr O’Hara said that he has been contacted by numerous people across the county over the past number of months concerned about increased illegal dumping in their local area.

“As well as its harmful effects on the environment, illegal dumping costs the state a huge amount of money to clean up,” he said.

“More than €100 million euro per year is being spent by local authorities on addressing the issue. It is a huge strain on the resources of Galway County Council and takes funding away from services where it is badly needed.

“It’s clear that more needs to be done to tackle illegal dumping. High waste collection charges, a lack of waste collection and recycling centres, inadequate penalties for illegal dumping and a lack of enforcement are just some of the issues that need to be addressed.”

The results from the survey will be analysed and raised with both Galway County Council and the Government to highlight what needs to be done.

Link to survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LW9QF89

Call for Galway people to enter Ireland’s Fittest Family

By
Michael Malone
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GALWAY DAILY NEWS ireland's fittest family tv show rté
The O'Rourke Family were the last Galway family to take part and made it all the way to the Semi Finals last year in Season 8.

Families in Galway have been encouraged to apply to enter the ninth series of Ireland’s Fittest Family on RTÉ.

The show’s organisers say that the competition will be more challenging than ever before – and the overall winners will walk away with a cash prize of €15,000.

They are scouring the country to find the fittest, fastest and strongest families to be coached to victory by the four returning coaches, Davy Fitzgerald, Anna Geary, Derval O’Rourke and Donncha O’Callaghan.

The O’Rourke family with coach Derval O’Rourke were the last Galway family to take parti in the show, and they made it all the way to the Semi Finals last year in Season 8.

The production will follow HSE’s COVID-19 guidelines to ensure that strict social distancing and health and safety is adhered to throughout the competition by all crew and families taking part.

The minimum age of participants must be 14 years old by 1 July 2021, and each family must be comprised of four immediate members. The series will be filmed between July and September, 2021.

More information and the link for an online application form can be found at
www.rte.ie/irelandsfittestfamily

Silent Vigil for Palestine to take place in city on Saturday

By
Michael Malone
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galway daily news palestine israel gaza vigil

A silent vigil to show solidarity with the people of Palestine will be held at the Spanish Arch on Saturday at 2pm.

The organisers are asking people to bring flags, to gather in peace and dignity, and to observe current Covid-19 regulations.

As gatherings of more than 15 people are not permitted, they are asking people to meet safely in small groups, maintain a two metre distance from each other, and show their colours for the people of Palesitne.

Israeli forces have killed at least 83 people in Gaza since the beginning of the latest bombing campaign on the besieged Palestinian territory.

Protests and vigils have taken place across the world in recent days in condemnation of atrocities committed by Israel, and in solidarity with the Palestinian people.

Local health officials in Gaza report that 17 children are among those who have been killed in recent days.

Two people die in house fire near Ballinasloe

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway daily news Three people hospitalised after Galway City house fire

Two people in their 40s lost their lives in house fire near Ballinasloe in the early hours of this morning.

At approximately 2am this morning, emergency services were alerted to a house fire at Gurth, Ballinasloe.

Three units of the fire brigade were called to the scene and brought the blazed under control.

The bodies of two people, a man and a woman in their 40s, were found inside the house.

Gardaí have preserved the scene as they work towards establishing the cause of the fire.

The bodies will be removed to Galway General Hospital where post mortem examinations will be conducted.

The State Pathologist Margaret Bolster has been informed. Results of the post mortem and a technical examination of the scene will determine the course of the Garda investigation.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to contact the Roscommon Garda Station on 090 6437102, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station

Man arrested after €90,000 cocaine seizure near Tuam

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news missing teen found safe

One man was arrested after the seizure of €90,000 worth of suspected cocaine in Tuam on Wednesday evening.

Gardaí attached to the Galway Divisional Drugs Unit stopped and searched a car on the outskirts of Tuam at approximately 7pm.
During the course of the search a quantity of suspected cocaine, with an estimated value of €90,000 was discovered and seized.
A man in his early 20s was arrested and detained at North Western Regional Garda Headquarters in Galway.
He has since been released without charge and a file is being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The suspected drugs are being sent for analysis.
An investigation is ongoing.

What to expect when getting your COVID vaccination in Galway

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

As the COVID-19 vaccination programme continues at Galway Racecourse in Ballybrit, Saolta has prepared information on how people should go about their vaccination appointment.

The Saolta Hospital Group has overall responsibility for the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine programme in the west and north-west of Ireland.

This Information Sheet on your vaccine appointment will provide information on what documents are needed, what to expect on arriving, and what to expect before and after receiving your vaccine.

Paul Hooton, Chief Director of Nursing and Midwifery at the Saolta Group said “COVID-19 vaccines are very safe, very effective and we are seeing the evidence of this in reduced hospitalisations and ICU admissions.

“I encourage everyone who has registered for a vaccination to attend for their appointment,” Paul Hooton said.

“To help people prepare for their vaccine, we have tried to outline each step of the process and reduce any apprehension they may feel about attending a vaccination centre.”

“Every vaccine administered is further protection from the effects of COVID-19 and we look forward to welcoming increasing numbers of the local community to the HSE Galway Vaccination Centre located in Galway Racecourse, Ballybrit over the coming weeks.”

Major plans to transform city streets into outdoor dining areas this summer

By
Michael Malone
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Galway city’s streets are set to be transformed this summer to facilitate outdoor dining, with the Council making a number of proposals to pedestrianise lanes, close streets to traffic and extend footpaths in parts of the city.

Galway City Council is examining a number of options for the summer months – between 7 June and 30 September – which include pedestrianising Ravens Terrace and the Small Crane, as well as adding public seating.

It is also proposing evening closures for both Dominick Street Lower and William Street West, and a new one-way traffic lane along Dominick Street Upper with increased footpaths on both sides of the street.

Red line = Full road closure | Green lines = New one way system | Yellow line = New evening closure | Blue, pink and yellow lines = Diversion routes

Additional outdoor dining areas could also be introduced on Middle Street by infilling parking areas.

Another proposal is to close one side of the traffic in Woodquay and increasing space for outdoor dining and pedestrians.

Red line: Full road closure | Green lines: New one way system | Yellow line: New evening closure | Blue, pink and yellow lines: Diversion routes

Cllr Alan Cheevers says that the changes will be a major boost for businesses in the city, while Cllr Owen Hanley also welcomed the proposals.

COVID-19: Fewer than five new cases reported in Galway today

By
Michael Malone
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Galway Daily news Galway hospitals see COVID cases double in recent weeks

Health officials have reported fewer than five new cases of COVID-19 in Galway.

A total of 448 new cases were reported nationally by the Department of Health this evening, as well as eight further COVID-19 related deaths – all of which are from January, February and March.

Galway’s 14-day incidence rate now stands at 72.1 cases per 100,000 people, with 186 new cases confirmed here in the past two weeks.

78% of the newly reported cases nationally are under 45 years of age and the median age is 29 years old.

Over half of the new cases are in Dublin (229), while 38 are in Meath, 35 in Kildare, 34 in Cork and 16 in Limerick.

As of 8am today, 109 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 34 are in ICU. There have been 12 additional hospitalisations in the past 24 hours.

Viable explosive made safe by Army in Tuam

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news

A viable explosive device in Tuam was made safe by the Army Explosive Ordinance Disposal team this afternoon, and Gardai are now appealing for witnesses.

The army EOD team from Athlone was called to Tuam by Gardai this morning after the discovery of an unexplained device.

An area of an estate around the Weir Road was also evacuated and sealed off from 8.30am this morning.

A Garda spokesperson said that the device has since been deemed to have been a viable explosive.

It has been removed by the EOD squad, who have now left the area.

An Garda Síochána is appealing to anyone who was in the vicinity of Millstream Park or Weir Road in Tuam on Tuesday night and up to 8:30am this morning to come forward.

Anyone who may have information is asked to contact Tuam Garda Station at 093 70840.

Anyone who has video footage, including dash cam footage in these areas, which may be of assistance is asked to also contact Tuam Garda Station.

Farmers must be realistic about COVID rules at marts next week says ICOS

By
Michael Malone
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galway daily news athenry mart licence suspended

With marts due to reopen next Monday, farmers should be realistic about what to expect under the less restrictive COVID protocols which will remain in place.

That’s according to the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS) which has said that many farmers have been in contact with mart managers indicating that they intend to go to the mart next week.

Ray Doyle, Livestock & Environmental Services Executive of ICOS, said this is almost at pre-COVID levels and possibly due to the sense of security that the ongoing vaccine rollout is creating.

But Mr Doyle said that farmers must remember that ‘we’re not out of the woods just yet’.

“Depending on local circumstances, not all marts will allow sellers to attend, and some sheep sales, especially in marts that sell sheep in pens, will be continuing sales as is due to the necessity to maintain social distancing,” he said.

“We can only look forward to full business as usual next Autumn – but not next week.

“We welcome the fact that the vaccine rollout is progressing strongly, however it is essential for nobody to let their guard down and that all necessary precautions should continue to be observed.”

Mr Doyle said that where applicable, most marts will be operating a restricted ringside at 2 metres distancing, and will be continuing the clearance of the mart yard when the sales commence due to Covid-related management requirements as stipulated by DAFM and the public health authorities.

“The last thing anyone wants or needs is a resurgence of the virus,” he said.

“Marts are being allowed to operate under a strict set of operating procedures similar to what was operating last June.

“In effect buyers will be allowed back around mart ringsides at 2 metres social distancing plus mandatory mask wearing. Sellers can now return to mart centres but only where the mart centre can safely accommodate them and can martial the 2 metre social distancing.

“Please only travel to your local mart if it is absolutely essential.  General visitors and observers should not attend marts.

“Adherence to the reopening plans for society and the economy is essential so that we can ensure a full reopening of marts on as near as normal a basis as possible over the coming months.”

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