Weather warning for heavy winds to hit Galway

By

Briain Kelly

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March 4, 2024

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Galway daily weather Met Eireann weather warning in force for Galway today

Met Eireann has issued a weather warning for heavy winds to hit the west coast on Tuesday morning.

Very strong and southwest winds will hit Galway, Clare, and Limerick for a time tomorrow morning.

The Status Yellow wind warning will be in place from 1am to 8am on Tuesday.

Despite this, heavy rain on Tuesday morning is expected to give way to light cloud and sunshine by the afternoon.

It will continue to be mostly dry throughout the week, Met Eireann has predicted, with spells of sunshine amid cloudy skies.

This carries a risk of falling branches, damage to temporary structures, wave overtopping, and difficult travelling conditions.

A separate wind and rain warning is also in place for Cork and Kerry today, with strong southerly winds and spells of heavy rain lasting into tomorrow morning.

Rescue operation after fishermen abandon boat stranded off Inis Mór

By

Briain Kelly

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March 3, 2024

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The Aran Islands RNLI and Rescue 115 helicopter came to the rescue of a group of fishermen stranded off Inis Mór on Sunday morning.

Shortly before 5am on Sunday morning the all-weather lifeboat was dispatched following a mayday call from a fishing boat.

The boat had run aground at An Coirnéal Port Eochla on the north side of Inis Mór with five fishermen aboard.

By the time the lifeboat arrived on the scene the fishing boat had begun to take on water, causing the crew to abandon ship.

The five fishermen had abandoned their 21m trawler and were in a life raft alongside the vessel. All were safe and well and in good spirits.

Weather on scene at the time was blowing a force 5 north west wind which was easing and there was a moderate sea of 2m and good visibility.

The Irish Coast Guard helicopter, Rescue 115 from Shannon was also tasked along with Coast Guard and Fire Service units to the shore side.

Having assessed the situation, a decision was made by Aran Islands RNLI Coxswain Declan Branigan to launch the lifeboat’s smaller daughter inflatable lifeboat should it be need to access closer to shore.

On arrival of Rescue 115, the situation was further assessed and it was agreed that the safest option was to winch the five fishermen to safety.

The lifeboat stood by until all casualties were accounted for before returning to Kilronan Pier at 7:30am this morning.

Meanwhile, on Saturday morning the lifeboat crew were requested to launch for a medical evacuation at 4:10am after a person had a fall.

Weather at the time was blowing a force 5-6 northwest wind. There was a moderate sea and good visibility. The lifeboat launched and transferred the casualty to Rossaveel to an awaiting ambulance.

Speaking following the call out, Aran Islands RNLI Coxswain Declan Branigan said, “We wish all casualties well following their experiences this weekend.”

“Yet again, yesterday and today’s call outs were good examples of how regular training and volunteers willing to give their time when called upon, leads to successful outcomes.”

“We also extend our thanks to our colleagues in the Irish Coast Guard and fire service, this morning’s call out showed great multi-agency cooperation.”

Aoife Raftery announced as Motorsport Ireland Road Safety Ambassador

By

Briain Kelly

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March 3, 2024

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Mototsport Irl Ambassadors 0414 — Aoife Rafferty and William Creighton Motorsport Ireland Road Safety Ambassadors. Pic © Michael Chester

Galway Rally driver Aoife Raftery has been named as one of two Motorsport Ireland Road Safety Ambassadors for 2024.

The sport’s governing body, Motorsport Ireland, re-launched its ‘Keep the Race in its Place’ road safety campaign on Saturday evening in Ballina, County Mayo.

The opening round of the Motorsport Ireland Triton Showers National Rally Championship is being held in the Mayo town this weekend.

Craughwell-native Raftery was announced as a Motorsport Ireland Road Safety Ambassador in front of a large crowd at the Mayo Rally’s ceremonial start in Ballina town centre, on Saturday evening.

Motorsport Ireland has a long-standing history of promoting road safety, with the ‘Keep the Race in its Place’, campaign being one of the most recognisable road safety messages in Ireland over the last 15 years.

Not used since pre-pandemic times, when the late and great Craig Breen was the sport’s road safety ambassador, the governing body felt it was time to re-energise the campaign by announcing the only female rally driver to be included in Motorsport Ireland’s Rally Academy as the 2024 representative.

“I am honoured to take on this Road Safety Ambassador role for Motorsport Ireland. The main objective of this initiative is to educate people about what it means to ‘Keep the Race in its Place’,” said Raftery.

“I want to use my passion for motorsport, my own experience within rallying and as a driver in the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy to get this safety message out to all drivers and encourage those who have an interest in our sport that there are rules we as rally drivers must obey strictly, and the same respect should be shown to the rules of the road.”

Current Junior World Rally Champion William Creighton has been named as the second road safety ambassador.

Raftery (23) and Creighton (26) are both members of the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy and have amassed over 160 rally starts between them across Ireland and Europe.

Motorsport Ireland President, Aiden Harper, announced the two new ambassadorial roles on Saturday evening in Ballina.

“Road Safety and the education of road safety awareness is a priority for Motorsport Ireland. There is a place to race, and that is in a controlled, safe environment, whether that be a race circuit or closed road, where people can compete with proper safety systems in place,” said Mr Harper.

“Our road safety ambassadors, Aoife and William are a testimony to young people who strive to foster road safety awareness.”

“Saturday was a great day for Motorsport Ireland as we launched these two new Ambassadors and we hope working with local authorities and civic bodies, the message ‘Keep the Race in its Place’ is promoted as we travel around the country.”

Ireland West Airport preparing for busiest summer schedule ever

By

Briain Kelly

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March 3, 2024

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Galway Daily news €5 million funding for Knock Airport includes state of the art screening system

Ireland West Airport is set for its busiest summer ever with Ryanair running its biggest ever summer sun and European city break schedule.

The popular Tenerife service will return with weekly flights for the first time since the summer of 2019.

In addition, Ryanair will operate flights to 9 city break and sun destinations across Europe, with 32 weekly flights and 170,000 seats available to and from European hotspots such as Alicante, Barcelona, Cologne, Faro, Lanzarote Majorca, Malaga, Milan and Tenerife this summer.

Ryanair will also increase frequency on their services to Faro, rising to four times weekly, during the peak summer season, and also Barcelona (Girona) which is extended, to now operate from April to October.

Alongside their services to and from Mainland and Continental Europe, Ryanair, will also operate flights to 8 different UK airports this summer including, Birmingham, Bristol, East-Midlands (Nottingham), Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool, London Luton and London Stansted.

The 2024 summer schedule represents an increase of 5% compared to summer 2023.

Joe Gilmore, Managing Director, Ireland West Airport commented “We are delighted to see Ryanair’s route network continue to grow year on year. The return of our popular Tenerife service for summer 2024 will be warmly welcomed by holidaymakers across the region.”

“This summer will be the busiest one on record for sun destinations and the choice on offer for customers in the West, Northwest and Midlands regions has never been better”.

“Combined with the stress-free experience and convenience of using the airport we hope these factors will entice new customers to the airport this summer and experience for themselves the benefits of flying from a regional airport like Ireland West.”

“We thank Ryanair for their continued commitment to the airport and look forward to further growing their route network from the airport in the future”.

In a further boost for holidaymakers this summer, the installation of a new next-generation cabin baggage screening system, which is now fully operational at the airport, is set to further enhance the passenger experience at the airport.

These new machines remove the need for passengers to remove laptops and liquids from cabin bags and further speed up queue times.

With this new system, all liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, pastes, baby food, medicines and special dietary products that would previously have to be put into clear, sealed plastic bags and presented separately to hand luggage, can now remain packed in your hand luggage.

With the installation of these new machines, the restriction on liquids of more than 100ml no longer applies, and passengers can travel with larger quantities of liquids if they fit into a cabin bag.

In addition, electrical items such as laptops and tablets no longer have to be separately screened and can remain in cabin bags, which will come as welcome news for passengers using the airport.

The new system reduces touch points and will make the passenger journey through security even quicker and easier.

Online Poker and AI: Exploring the Intersection of Gaming and Technology

By

Angela Mc Bride

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March 3, 2024

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Have you ever wondered how the digital world merges with the age-old game of poker? Online poker has evolved significantly in this era, where technology is as much a daily staple as your morning coffee. It’s not just about the cards anymore but about how technology reshapes this classic game. The transformation is profound, intertwining the exhilaration of traditional poker with the convenience and sophistication of the digital age. This evolution has opened new avenues for players to engage, learn, and excel in poker, all from the comfort of their own spaces. With advancements in software and connectivity, online poker brings the excitement of the game to a global audience, transcending geographical and physical limitations.

The Digital Transformation of Poker

Online platforms bring together enthusiasts from around the globe, providing a hub for both learning and playing. Imagine a place where a new game begins every second, offering an array of choices, from Texas Hold’em to Omaha and beyond. This is the reality of modern online poker platforms. They are more than just gaming sites; they’re vibrant spaces where skills are honed and strategies are developed. These platforms are designed to be user-friendly, making deposits and withdrawals secure and ensuring the software is top-notch. Think of it as a digital colosseum where poker champions are made.

AI: The Game Changer in Online Poker

Now, let’s dive into the crux of the matter: Artificial Intelligence (AI) in online poker. AI in poker isn’t about playing the game for you. It’s about enhancing the game to make it more engaging, fair, and technically advanced. So, how exactly is AI making its mark in the online poker world?

Fair Play and Security: AI algorithms are instrumental in ensuring fair play. They monitor game patterns and detect any anomalies that could indicate unfair practices. This keeps the game clean and boosts players’ confidence in the platform’s integrity.

Personalized Experience: Ever noticed how online platforms seem to understand your playing style? That’s AI at work. It analyzes your previous games and tailors your future experiences to suit your style. This customization makes the game more enjoyable and engaging for each player.

Data Analysis and Strategy Development: AI excels in analyzing vast data. In online poker, it can study countless past games, providing insights into strategies and common pitfalls. This helps in developing new strategies and understanding the game’s nuances better.

Bots and Simulation: While using bots for playing is a contentious issue, AI bots are widely used for training and simulation. They help players practice, testing strategies against various playing styles and scenarios.

The Human Element in AI-Enhanced Poker

Despite AI’s increasing role, the essence of poker remains unchanged. It’s still a game that demands a keen mind, a strategic approach, and the ability to read both the game and your opponents. AI doesn’t replace these quintessential human skills but complements them. It equips players with innovative tools to refine their strategies, deepening their understanding of the game’s intricacies. Moreover, AI helps cultivate a more dynamic and responsive gaming environment, encouraging players to adapt and grow continually. This synergy of human intellect and AI paves the way for a more enriched poker experience.

A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

As we embrace this blend of tradition and technology, it’s clear that the world of online poker is thriving. It’s a testament to how classic games can evolve, incorporating modern technology without losing their essence. AI in online poker is not about creating a new game; it’s about enhancing the experience of the traditional game, making it more accessible, fair, and enjoyable for everyone.

So, whether you’re a seasoned player or new to online poker, remember you’re part of a larger narrative. It’s a narrative that respects the tradition of poker while embracing the advancements of technology. And in this narrative, every player has a chance to be a champion, every moment is an opportunity to learn, and every game is a blend of the past and the future.

Man left seriously injured following heinous assault

By

Briain Kelly

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March 2, 2024

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Galway Daily news Man dies after car goes into the water

A man is being treated for serious injuries at University Hospital Galway following an assault on Friday evening.

A man in his 40s was attacked at approximately 9:45pm yesterday evening at a premises in Demesne, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

The man received treatment at the scene, and was later transferred to University Hospital Galway.

An incident room has been established, at Castlerea Garda Station.

Gardaí issued a statement appealing for any witnesses or people with information to come forward.

“Gardaí are appealing to the public for information in relation to this incident.

In particular, Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have seen a White / Silver Audi A4 car travelling in the Castlerea and Ballintubber areas of Co. Roscommon between 8.30pm and 11.30pm on Friday 1st March 2024.

Any road users who were travelling in the area at this time, and who may have camera footage (including dash cam) is asked to make this available.

Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to contact Castlerea Garda Station on (094) 962 1630, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.”

Met Eireann issues another weather warning for Ice tonight

By

Briain Kelly

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March 2, 2024

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Weather warning for ice in Galway tonight

Another frosty night is in store for Galway as Met Eireann has issued another Ice Warning for Saturday night.

The status yellow weather warning will be in effect from 8pm on Saturday until 9am the following morning.

The Ice Warning has been issued by Met Eireann for the entire country this evening.

“Becoming icy in many areas tonight, especially in Ulster and Leinster.”

This will hazardous road conditions as well as slippery paths and cycleways.

Vigilance urged among farmers after sheep killed by dogs

By

Briain Kelly

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March 2, 2024

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Galway daily news sheep killed in serious animal attacks

Farmers in the Ballygar area are being urged to be cautious following a sheep kill in the area by two dogs.

One ewe was reported lost in a sheep kill at Muckanagh, Ballygar in mid-February.

The farmer in question identified the dogs responsible as two collies, and the case was reported to Gardaí and the IFA.

Galway County Council has urged farmers in the area to be vigilant, and appealed to dog owners to ensure their pets are never unsupervised.

“Galway County Council’s dog warden service have been conducting door to door enquires in the area including licencing and microchipping checks.”

“However, the two dogs involved alleged to be involved in the incident have yet to be found.”

“We would ask farmers in nearby areas such as Boughil, Dereen and Islandcase to be particularly vigilant at this time.”

“We also appeal to all dog owners to ensure that their dogs are never let out unsupervised, particularly at night, and are under control at all times.”

If you witness an incident of sheep worrying or damage to livestock in Galway County, please report it immediately to Galway County Council, Tel: 091-509510, Email:
dogwardens@galwaycoco.ie and An Garda Siochána.

Bobbi Lee is forced to keep an unwelcome secret in Ros na Rún

By

Briain Kelly

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March 2, 2024

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Galway Daily television Bobbi Lee is forced to keep an unwelcome secret in Ros na Rún

Sonny is all riled up, Laoise makes a very poor decision that leaves her feeling guilty, and Niall feels Bobbi Lee’s wrath in Ros na Rún.

Sonny plasters on a smile for Natasha, but behind the mask, he is fuming at the idea of Manus dating her. Meanwhile, Crystal is quickly losing her patience with Sonny as he rants about Manus.

Laoise’s irritation is increasing by the second as her responsibilities continue to pile up. In the meantime, herself and Micheal fail to communicate.

Instead, Mícheál talks through his concerns with Berni and similarly, John Joe provides Laoise with some much-needed support. But is there a betrayal on the horizon?

Niall feels Bobbi Lee’s wrath after being caught red handed as the author of his own letters and Bobbi Lee struggles to come to terms with Niall’s dishonesty.

Later on, Bobbi Lee accepts that she needs to keep schtum or Niall could lose his job. Although Niall’s lies don’t sit right with Bobbi Lee, will she decide to keep his secret or walk away?

Maeve has begun her work experience in the pharmacy under Cyril’s supervision, and throughout the day, he quickly gains her trust and admiration, luring her closer.

After some boy trouble, Cyril swoops in to comfort Maeve and it is clear that he has an effect on her. But why has Cyril taken such a shine to Maeve?

Catch up on all the latest happenings in Ros na Rún with a double feature omnibus on TG4 this Sunday at 7:30pm.

Social Democrats finalise lineup for 2024 Galway City local elections

By

Briain Kelly

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March 2, 2024

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Galway West Candidates — The Social Democrats candidates for Galway City (left to right) - Cllr. Alan Curran (City West), Justine Delaney Heaslip (City East), and Eibhlín Seoighthe (City Central)

The Social Democrats have confirmed their third candidate to contest the next local elections in Galway City.

Justine Delaney Heaslip has been selected as the party’s candidate for the Galway City East local electoral area.

The selection event, which took place on Tuesday, February 27th, saw party members from across the area come together to nominate their representative.

Justine Delaney Heaslip grew up in the heart of Galway City and lived on the Eastside for the last 20 years, deeply embedding herself in the community and advocating for progressive change.

As an office manager at a leading company in the city, Justine has not only demonstrated her leadership and organizational skills but has also championed sustainability initiatives, serving as the company’s sustainability ambassador.

On being selected, Justine Delaney Heaslip said, “I am honored to have been chosen to represent the Social Democrats in Galway City East.”

“This community has been my home for two decades, and I am deeply committed to making it a better, more sustainable place for all of us.”

“I believe in transparent, accountable governance and the power of community-led change. Together, we can build a brighter future for Galway.”

Justine joins Councillor Alan Curran (Galway City West) and Eibhlín Seoighthe (Galway City Central) as the Social Democrats’ candidates for the 2024 local elections.

The other two candidates were announced following a selection meeting last September.

Councillor Alan Curran was coopted to the city council take the seat of Owen Hanley back in March 2023.

Justine’s campaign will focus on promoting sustainable urban development, enhancing public services, and fostering a strong sense of community.

Free Fun for young and old alike exploring the world of engineering

By

Briain Kelly

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March 1, 2024

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University of Galway is hosting a free family day for budding engineers this weekend with fun presentations and a chance to get their hands dirty.

‘Engineering Our Future: Family Fun Day’ takes place on Saturday, March 2 from 10am to 4pm in the Alice Perry Engineering Building.

The event is part of Engineers Week 2024, celebrating the role of engineering across Ireland, with live events, films, workshops, driving simulators, and more.

People attending will get to build their own wind turbine; gain a basic understanding of the role and structure of cells and DNA with Cell Explorers; build a biomaterial using slime; have fun with 3D printing; learn how to repair bicycles from An Mheitheal Rothar; explore the GEEC: Galway Energy Efficient Car; have fun in the LEGO or STEM play areas; or take some timeout in the sensory room.

Attendees can also practice their driving and hazard perception skills on state-of the art car, motorbike or bicycle simulators provided by the Road Safety Authority.

Professor Jamie Goggins, School of Engineering at University of Galway, said that children are natural engineers as they love to design and build things, using whatever they can get their hands on.

“With knowledge, innovation and creativity, engineers change the reality and future of all human beings.”

“We want to see as many families join us for the day-long events to help mark and celebrate Engineers Week and explore engineering through exciting and fun, hands-on activities and shows, as well as meeting with practising engineers to better learn about the world around us, understand the role of engineering in our lives and its impact on our future.”

The full programme of events for Family Fun Day is available at www.universityofgalway.ie/engineersweek/.

Tickets are free, and they can be booked for some shows in advance through the website. Families are also advised that they can turn up on the day, on a first come, first served, basis.

Plans in the works for Floodlights at Westside Running Track

By

Briain Kelly

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March 1, 2024

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Galway Daily news Plans in the works for Floodlights at Westside Running Track

Galway City Council has announced plans for the installation of new floodlights at Westside Running Track.

The running track makes up part of the larger sports complex by Westside Playing Fields off the Seamus Quirke Road.

The plans are for the erection of 20 floodlight luminaires on top of 10 lighting columns around the perimeter of the existing running track.

Galway City Council has carried out an Appropriate Assessment (AA) Screening Report and has concluded that a full Appropriate Assessment is not required in respect of this proposed development.

Public submissions in relation to these plans can be made to the city council until 4pm on Tuesday, April 9.

Plans and particulars of the proposed development will be available for inspection online at this webpage.

Galway driver doing 122km/h in 80km/h zone among hundreds caught in traffic operation

By

Briain Kelly

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March 1, 2024

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galway daily news Galway driver among worst speeding offences caught over Bank Holiday weekend

A driver doing 122km/h in an 80km/h zone in the Oranmore area was one of hundreds of people caught speeding over a 24-hour traffic operation.

Gardaí detected in excess of 900 people speeding over the course of the National Slow Down Day which ended at 7am on Friday.

Other examples of serious speeding caught in Galway over the course of the day include:

113km/h in a 80km/h Zone on the R354 Lackagh Beg Turloughmore Galway
70km/h in a 50km/h Zone on the Church Street Ballinasloe Galway
99km/h in a 80km/h Zone on the N6 Baile An Phoill Gaillimh Gaillimh

Gardaí arrested three drivers detected speeding on suspicion of dangerous driving while a further three drivers detected speeding were subsequently arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated.

The aim of National Slow Down Day was to remind drivers of the dangers of speeding, to increase compliance with speed limits and act as a deterrent to driving at excessive or inappropriate speed.

An Garda Síochána continues to appeal to drivers to comply with speed limits in order to reduce the number of speed related collisions, save lives and reduce injuries on our roads.

Status Yellow Ice Weather Warning issued for tonight

By

Briain Kelly

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March 1, 2024

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Galway Daily news Status Yellow Ice Weather Warning issued for tonight

Icy conditions are forecast for Galway tonight, as Met Eireann has issued a weather warning for the entire country tonight.

The Status Yellow Ice Warning will be in place for all of Ireland from 6pm on Friday until 9am the following morning.

Cold weather tonight will lead to ice on untreated surfaces creating hazardous travelling conditions Met Eireann has said.

Much of north and central Ireland has been caught off guard by heavy snowfall today which has blocked roads and closed schools.

There are a multitude of weather warnings in place today, such as a Rain warning for Dublin, Louth, Meath, Wicklow lasting until 3am Saturday.

There is also a Snow-Ice warning for Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Offaly, Wexford, Wicklow, and all of Munster until 6pm today.

Another Cavan, Monaghan, Dublin, Kildare, Longford, Westmeath, Wicklow, Leitrim, Roscommon, Sligo expired at midday on Friday.

Almost 1,000 patients on trolleys at UHG in February

By

Briain Kelly

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March 1, 2024

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

There were almost 1,000 patients on trolleys at University Hospital Galway in February, making it the third most overcrowded in Ireland.

INMO TrolleyWatch figures show a total of 987 patients admitted to UHG forced to wait on trolleys last month.

This figure was exceeded only by the overcrowding at University Hospital Limerick (2,247) and Cork University Hospital (1,070).

INMO General Secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha warned that multiple bank holiday weekends ahead will put pressure on hospital beds.

“With two bank holidays happening in quick succession in March, the HSE must outline what steps they are taking in the run up to St. Patrick’s Day to ensure we don’t have a repeat of February overcrowding.”

“Since the end of January, I have been in the majority of hospitals that the INMO counts trolleys in and have witnessed dangerous scenes in many hospitals with patients being treated in completely inappropriate spaces.”

“It is clear that most hospitals are operating at over one hundred per cent occupancy meaning that patients are being cared for in all available spaces which is unsafe.”

Morale among hospital staff is dangerously low, she warned, with the HSE’s hiring freeze exacerbating a feeling of helplessness.

“The system of hiring was very slow to begin with but the introduction of a derogation system and a blanket ban on hiring will render very unsafe situations even worse.”

“Directors of nursing and midwifery are now saying population growth has not been factored in, the increased daily activity has not been factored in and they will not be able to stand over levels of care due to the recruitment freeze.”

Nationwide there were 10,991 patients on trolleys across Irish hospitals in the month of February the INMO has said.

Galway man explores the history behind his name in Sloinne finale

By

Briain Kelly

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March 1, 2024

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Galway man Frankie Ó Conchubhair goes in search of the history behind his O’Connor surname in the final episode of TG4 documentary series Sloinne.

Galway man Frankie Ó Conchubhair goes in search of the history behind his O’Connor surname in the final episode of the TG4 documentary series Sloinne.

Sloinne series delves into the fascinating stories behind Ireland’s most common surnames, bringing history to life in a way that’s accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

The first series showcases surnames like Ó Flaithearta, Ó Murchú, Ó Ceallaigh, Ó Súilleabháin, Ó Domhnaill, Seoighe, and Ó Conchubhair.

Each episode features a special guest exploring their family surname, taking us on a journey back in time. We’ll visit ancient strongholds tied to these names, reliving epic battles and feuds over land and possessions.

From the famous to the infamous, modern-day stories of surname bearers add a personal touch, highlighting our enduring connection to our ancestors.

In this Sunday’s final episode of Sloinne, the programme follows Frankie Ó Conchubhair (Ros a mhíl) as he goes on a journey back in time to trace the history of his O’Connor surname.

He finds out about the different variations and spellings of the O’Connor surname when he meets with Dr Kieran O’Conor – lecturer at University College Galway – and discusses the knowledge of owned land in Barna belonging to his O’Connor family with series geneologist Paul MacCotter.

Frankie’s journey also takes him to Roscommon. There, he visits the picture-perfect Clonalis House, where Pyers O’Conor Nash shows him around The O’Conor Don Estate, which was passed down through generations and maintained by his family.

He also meets historian Rena Burke at Felim O’Connor’s tomb in the Dominican Priory of St.Mary and Dr Daniel Curley (historian and archaeologist) at the Rathcroghan Visitor Centre.

The episode features other conversations with harpist Úna Ní Fhlannagáin (Galway), poet Micheál Ó hAodha (Galway) and historian Sharon Slater (Limerick).

The finale episode of the documentary series Sloinne will air on TG4 at 8:30pm this Sunday, March 3.

Galway County Council to adopt Ireland’s first Waste Management Plan for a circular economy

By

Briain Kelly

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March 1, 2024

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Galway daily news Galway one of two clean cities in latest IBAL litter survey

Galway County Council is set to adopt Ireland’s first National Waste Management Plan for a Circular Economy which launched today.

This plan aims to tackle the significant waste challenges faced in Ireland and provides a new framework for the prevention and management of waste from 2024 to 2030.

The plan sets out an ambitious target of 0% waste growth per person. This means the amount of waste generated for each person is not going to increase above existing levels.

This equates to an effective 7-10% reduction in predicted waste generation by 2030.

The Plan emphasizes waste reduction from commercial activities and the construction and demolition sector and identifies 16 focus areas with 85 priority actions.

“As a nation, we’ve seen a significant increase in the amount of waste generated each year and it’s having a dramatic impact on our environment, our climate and our natural resources,” Kevin Swift, Regional Waste Co-ordinator Connacht Ulster.

“Last year alone we collected over 13 and a half million tonnes of waste – or over 2 tonnes per person. That’s the equivalent weight of two cars! This cannot continue.”

“We urgently need a new approach, and this plan provides a roadmap for how we can produce less waste and become more circular by repairing, reusing, and recycling more.”

The plan also aims to encourage sustainable consumption, with proposals for more awareness campaigns, education programmes, and demonstration projects, as well as promoting the correct use of collection bins.

It’s anticipated that the combined effect of these interventions will prevent 300,000 tonnes of waste over the life of this Plan and increase the recycling rate by up to 9%,” said Mr Swift.

“It’s also really important that we become more creative with the waste we do produce and look at innovative ways to encourage recycling such as the Deposit Return Scheme,” he added.

The private waste sector in Ireland is valued at over €1.4bn and provides employment for approximately 10,000 people.

The total Local Authority expenditure on waste functions exceeds €280M annually and involves over 1700 people.

The scale of the financial and human commitment to waste services is large, yet the plan highlights that the transition to a circular economy will require additional State investment of at least €40 million to achieve the desired outcomes.

Three walking trails on Inis Meain added to National Walks Scheme

By

Briain Kelly

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February 29, 2024

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Three walking trails on Inis Meain will get funding for their maintenance as the latest additions to ‘Ireland’s National Walks Scheme’.

The scheme provides funding to farmers and other landholders to maintain walking trails which go through their land.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys announced this week that 62 new trails across 17 counties have been added to the scheme.

The three trails in Galway added to the scheme are Lúb Dún Chonchúir, Lúb Cill Cheannannach, and Lúb Dún Fearbhaí.

This is part of a phased expansion that will see the number of trails on the Walks Scheme increase from 80 to 150 over the next two years.

Over €15 million has been paid to farmers and landholders participating in the Scheme since 2017, with an additional €1.4 million spent on materials for the maintenance of trails.

This expansion will see an additional annual investment of over €500,000 to rural areas through the scheme.

Minister Humphreys said, “I want to make Ireland an international destination of choice for walkers and hikers.”

“We have a unique offering in terms of our natural landscape filled with mountains, forests, lakes, rivers and sea.”

“Often these amenities can only be truly appreciated by crossing through fields and land owned by local farmers,” Heather Humphreys said.

“The National Walks Scheme is about working in partnership with landowners so we can open up access to local communities and tourists to enjoy these wonderful hidden gems we have all across Ireland.”

“I want to acknowledge and thank the work of all the farmers and landowners involved in the Walks Scheme who provide access to their holdings and who help to maintain the trails to a high standard for the benefit of a huge number of locals and visitors.”

“Without the goodwill of farmers, we would not have access to many of our favourite tracks and trails. It is incumbent on all of us to use these amenities responsibly, respect local landowners and of course – Leave no Trace.”

Bus transfers operating on Galway train services this weekend

By

Briain Kelly

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February 29, 2024

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Galway Daily news Galway train service disruptions this weekend

Train services between Galway and Dublin will be disrupted this weekend due to line improvement works taking place.

This Saturday, March 2 Irish Rail is carrying out gantry relaying works on the line between Portarlington and Clonydonnin.

As a result of this disruption, there will be some train services between Galway and Dublin either cancelled operating as bus transfers on Saturday.

The affected scheduled services are:

17:30 Heuston to Galway will operate to Portarlington only, bus transfers direct from Portarlington to Athlone, second bus transfer from Portarlington to Tullamore, Clara and Athlone, second train departing at 19:45hrs from Athlone to Galway
18:30 Heuston to Galway is cancelled
19:35 Heuston to Galway will operate to Portarlington only, bus transfers direct from Portarlington to Athlone, second bus transfer from Portarlington to Tullamore and Athlone, second train departing at 21:40hrs from Athlone to Galway
17:20 Galway to Heuston will operate to Athlone only, bus transfers direct from Athlone to Portarlington, second bus transfer from Athlone to Tullamore and Portarlington, second train departing at 19:50hrs from Portarlington to Heuston
19:20 Galway to Heuston will operate to Athlone only, bus transfers direct from Athlone to Portarlington, second bus transfer from Athlone to Clara, Tullamore and Portarlington, second train departing at 22:17hrs from Portarlington to Heuston

These disruptions will repeat the following weekend on Saturday, March 9 while work is taking place in the same area.

Green light for demolition and replacement of Lidl supermarket in Gort

By

Briain Kelly

-

February 29, 2024

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Galway Daily news Planning sought to demolish and replace Lidl supermarket in Gort

Galway County Council has granted planning permission for the demolition of Lidl supermarket in Gort to make way for a larger replacement.

Lidl sought the council’s approval to demolish the existing supermarket on Crowe Street, Gort, along with a neighbouring building.

This would make way for the construction of a larger new supermarket in its place, increasing the floor space from 1,795m² currently to 2,529m² when the new building is built.

In the application, Lidl stated that the larger supermarket will create an additional 5-10 full-time jobs on top of current employment levels.

The Cover Letter for the plans states that the current supermarket, which was designed in 2005, is no longer suitable to cater for the scale of demand in the area.

Planning permission for the supermarket was granted by Galway County Council with 26 conditions attached.

One condition states that Lidl must provide a minimum of two hours of free public parking on the site to serve the town centre.

Other works will include reconfiguring car parking and landscaping on the site, along with reconfiguring vehicular and pedestrian access to Kinincha Road.

The development will also include the creation of new pedestrian accesses to Kinincha Road and Crowe Street, and a public plaza where the site meets Crowe Street.

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