Home Blog Page 594

Galway’s Bia Innovator Campus announces opening date & calls for expressions of interest

0
bia innovator campus galway daily news athenry

Bia Innovator Campus (CLG) has announced that it is on course to open in summer 2021, and is seeking expressions of interest from the food community to be registered before 27 November 2020.

The Campus aims to address the region’s growing need for workspace infrastructure and innovation services among food producers.

More than 40 food companies will be welcomed to the CLG from January 2021, ahead of its official opening in the summer.

Producers will also have the opportunity to connect with advisory teams and educators under the themes of production, collaboration, education and innovation, creating 360 jobs for the region.

The state-of-the-art Campus is co-located at Teagasc in Athenry and represents an investment of €7 million and years of determined effort by the voluntary Board of BIA Innovator Campus CLG.

“With challenge comes opportunity and COVID-19 has put the spotlight on our food sector and the critical supply chains from farm to fork,” said Peter Feeney, Chairperson of the Bia Innovator Board.

“If anything, the demand for local, high-quality food produce has increased. BIA Innovator Campus is ready to provide the infrastructure, the programmes and the community to help a new generation of food entrepreneurs with the potential to grow but lack the space to do so.

“When we shared our vision for this project in 2017, the reaction from the food sector was very encouraging. They told us they needed food-grade space to produce and grow their businesses.

“They needed food-specific technical support and business guidance in a more accessible way. Already, over 50 expressions of interest have been received.”

Expressions of interest can be submitted until November 27th and are open to those who wish to find out more about BIA Innovator Campus along with producers in need of business support and those in the food community with food tourism ideas.

Annual ‘Sponsor a Christmas Tree Light’ at UHG launched

0

The Children’s Remembrance Day Committee at University Hospital Galway has launched ‘Sponsor a Christmas Tree Light’ 2020, giving families an opportunity to remember their loved ones in a special way over the festive season.

The tree allows people to sponsor a light in memory of the deceased or as a gift to a loved one, and mass will be offered for those for whom lights are sponsored which can be viewed on the chapel webcam.

“Our tree is unique in that the lights can be sponsored for both the living and the deceased,” said Joan Healy from the Children’s Remembrance Day Committee. “The light may be sponsored for one person or indeed for a family.”

This year’s card, which depicts a holly bush and robin illuminated by the light of a star, was designed by Maeve Brady from Cavan and will be given out to those who sponsor a light for €5.

“The year 2020 has been like no other with so much hardship and difficulty caused by COVID-19,” added Joan Healy.

“The Committee is hopeful that like the robin trying to bring warmth to the stable, the lights will reach out across the world connecting family and friends.

“The card can be sent to loved ones letting them know that a light has been sponsored in memory of a deceased person or indeed as a gift to the living.”

Joan said that this year more than ever, with so many people having been unable to travel and visit home, they feel it is important to connect, “letting them know that the lights are on, they are loved, missed and in our thoughts”.

“The funds raised through the sale of the Christmas tree lights are used to fund and support the activities of the Children’s Remembrance Day Committee throughout the year and any extra monies raised are used to enhance the services for bereaved families within the hospital.

“If you would like to sponsor a Christmas tree light, please contact Children’s Remembrance Day Committee members Anne McKeown on 091 544823/087 968 4271, Helena Hanrahan on 087 771 6648 or Joan Healy on 087 963 8992 from Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm for more information.”

Switching on the Christmas Tree Lights 

On Sunday 13 December, RTÉ’s Teresa Mannion will officially switch on the Christmas tree lights.  Due to social distancing requirements the event will be streamed live on: https://www.mcnmedia.tv/cameral/uhg-chapel. The lights on the tree will remain until 06 January 2021.

NUI Galway to hold Autumn Postgrad Open Day next week

0
galway daily news promo postgrad nui galway open day nuig masters
Postgrad Open Day promo images at NUI Galway. Photograph by Aengus McMahon

NUI Galway will hold its annual Autumn Postgraduate Open Day next Tuesday, which will take place virtually due to the current Covid restrictions.

The open day will take place on Tuesday, 24 November from 12.00 to 7.00pm, exploring the hundreds of taught and research postgraduate programmes enrolling in 2021.

The virtual event will give visitors with the chance to explore courses and careers by attending live talks with the option to ask questions and to hear directly from programme directors.

In addition to subject and programme specific talks, there will be presentations on all the practicalities of preparing for postgraduate study.

Key talks include: Fees, Funding and Scholarships; Graduate Studies: Funding my PhD; and Enhancing my Employability with a Postgrad Qualification.

“A key part of the decision to pursue a Masters is finding out as much as possible about the potential programmes that could be right for you, the application process and the funding options available,” said Valerie Leahy, Postgraduate Recruitment Officer.

“The upcoming virtual open day is a one day event where you can gather all of this information in one place and get ready to make a successful application to your course of choice.”

NUI Galway is also launching a number of new postgraduate programmes for entry in 2021 which will be included in the open day showcase.

The College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies is launching a number of new postgraduate options including: MSc Adolescent Health, MA/PDip Child, Youth and Community; MA/PDip in Public Policy; and options in Consumer Psychology and in Education Studies.

The College of Science & Engineering is offering a new MSc Genomics Data Science which combines highly-sought after skills in genetics, statistics, and data analytics and will provide advanced training in the computational techniques used to analyse and understand genomic data, allowing graduates to work in the emerging field of genomic and precision medicine.

WHO Chief Information Officer headlining NUIG medtech forum

0
Galway Daily news WHO Chief Information Officer headlining NUIG medtech forum

The Chief Information Officer of the World Health Organisation will deliver the keynote address at a virtual medtech conference at NUIG next week.

The annual MedTech Forum held by NUI Galway will take place on Monday, November 23, and its virtual format is completely free and open to the public.

This year’s forum will focus on theme of ‘Campus Innovations for COVID-19 Global Solutions’.

Prof Derek O’Keeffe, Professor of Medical Device Technology at NUIG and Consultant at UHG is the event organiser for the forum.

He said that the annual event highlight the “cross discipline research collaborations” that happen on campus to deliver new an innovative medical device solutions.

“This year the focus is specifically on the great work that we have done on COVID-19 MedTech innovations that have impacted locally, nationally and internationally.”

Mr Bernardo Mariano Jr Chief Information Officer and Digital Health Director of the WHO, will deliver the keynote address for the Forum which runs from 9am to 1pm.

He commented that he is looking forward to discussing the WHO is helping to encourage a “digital transformation” of the healthcare sector by building “trusted and ethical” systems.

Professor Tim O’Brien, Dean of the College of Medicine praised the “depth of talent that is present both on campus, in our hospitals and in our industry partners”, which is seen at the forum.

“This year’s excellent programme highlights the result of harnessing this network of excellence to create novel solutions when COVID-19 brought so many problems.”

“One of the key clinical transformations that occurred during the pandemic was the adoption of digital technologies to deliver care and our keynote speaker Bernardo Mariano Jr, will discuss this phenomenon and subsequent health opportunities from a unique global perspective.”

The NUI Galway MedTech Forum is a free event and open to the public. For more information and to register visit: https://bit.ly/3lB8lbS.

Connacht v Benetton and Christmas interpro fixtures confirmed

0
Galway Daily rugby Four changes made to starting XV for Connacht v Glasgow

PRO14 Rugby have confirmed the dates and kick-off times for the rescheduled Connacht v Benetton clash, as well as the Christmas interpros here in Galway.

Andy Friend’s side welcome Benetton to The Sportsground on Friday 4th December, the first of three home games during the month.

Then at Christmas, Ulster make the trip to The Sportsground on Sunday 27th December, before we head to the RDS to face Leinster on Saturday 2nd January.

The festive fixtures are completed on Saturday, January 9 when Connacht will host Munster.

All games kick-off at 7:35pm.

VAT refund changes threaten Galway’s tourism and retail report claims

0
Galway Daily business VAT refund changes threaten Galway's tourism and retail report claims

Changes  being proposed to the VAT refund scheme, which encourages non-EU tourists to purchase crafts and gifts in Ireland, would have a serious impact on tourism and retail in Galway a report claims.

The Retail Export Scheme allows tourists from outside the EU to claim a VAT refund on Irish quality craft and gift items purchased here.

However, the Brexit Omnibus Bill which is currently moving through the Oireachtas would make significant changes to the eligibility of the scheme.

Under the proposed changes, any purchase which is for less than €175 would be excluded from claiming a VAT refund.

A report by economist Jim Powers said that these changes would “undermine the competitiveness” of tourism and retail businesses, particularly along the Wild Atlantic Way.

The report was commissioned by the ‘Stop Another Tourism Tax’ Campaign, an alliance of independent Irish retailers and tourism businesses.

It found that in 2019 there was €6.27 million in sales under the scheme made in Galway, which were for transactions of less than €175.

In terms of the sheer number of individual sales made, the report also said that 88.6% of purchases made in Galway, or 104,284 individual sales, were for less than the €175 threshold.

“The proposed new legislation will risk many jobs in Galway and will put people out of business,” Jim Powers said.

“It is crystal clear that economic activity, employment and the overall health of the retail and tourism sectors in Galway are at risk.”

“Introducing the €175 limit on the Retail Export Scheme would undermine competitiveness and decimate the Irish tourism and retail sectors, particularly along the Wild Atlantic Way.’’

Powers said that the Retail Export Scheme currently contributes roughly €108 million to the Irish economy, with a large proportion of this spent outside of Dublin.

“The tourism and retail sectors in Galway have been decimated by COVID-19 and they face a very challenging future. They need as much support as possible over the coming years.”

“Increasing the Retail Export Scheme threshold to €175 would not represent support, and it would totally fly in the face of the ongoing efforts to promote Irish tourism.’’

Six confirmed COVID patients hospitalised in Galway, but none in ICU

0

The minor reversal in the trend of COVID-19 hospital numbers in Galway has continued, with six confirmed cases at UHG according to the latest figures.

As of 8pm on Monday there were six confirmed patients receiving treatment for COVID-19 at UHG, while Portiuncula in Ballinasloe remains free of confirmed cases.

There are a further four suspected cases at University Hospital Galway, and two at Portiuncula Hospital.

Fortunately, both hospitals remain free of COVID patients in Intensive Care, either confirmed or suspected.

Nationally there are 266 confirmed cases in hospital as of Monday night, along with 104 suspected cases.

Of those, there are 34 confirmed and two suspected patients receiving treatment in the ICU.

The Department of Health reported just 10 new cases in Galway yesterday, with the 14 day incidence rate falling to 81 cases per 100,000 population.

This while the national figures showed 456 daily cases, and five further deaths reported.

Spacious Galway city house has stunning gardens

0
galway daily property knocknacarra galway city house for sale

This substantial detached family home in a highly sought-after development benefits from its close proximity to a host of quality National and Secondary schools.

O’Donnellan & Joyce are offering house hunters the opportunity to buy No. 107 Clybaun Heights – a well-regarded family estate located off the Shangort Road in Knocknacarra.

The property is nestled in a quiet traffic-free cul de sac on a large corner site and the property also has the benefit of a very attractive private split-level rear garden with an elevated lawn and mature planting, making it the ideal spot for gardening enthusiasts.

The 175.35 m² property offers abundant space, including a bright and airy welcoming hall with an under stairs coat area and custom built storage, a large lounge room with a feature open fireplace, large bay window and custom built shelving and TV unit. 

The heart of the home is the stunning open plan kitchen and dining room which overlooks the private back garden. A spacious utility, playroom or optional sixth bedroom, guest WC and separate office/gym with side access completes the accommodation on the ground floor.

Upstairs the accommodation comprises a beautifully appointed main bathroom with feature porcelain tiling, Jacuzzi bath and high quality sanitary ware. There are five double bedrooms with four offering large built in wardrobe space. 

The master bedroom is well proportioned with a beautiful en suite with feature porcelain tiling throughout.

Externally the property is positioned within a quiet cul de sac on a superb corner site adjacent to a large green area. The front exterior offers a large lawn & a tarmacadam driveway offering ample off street parking. 

Gated side entrances lead to the substantial rear garden which offers complete privacy, a paved patio area, an elevated lawn area with mature trees and shrubs and a large timber shed and separate boiler house.

This home is without doubt one of the nicest family homes to come to the market in recent times and is presented and maintained in impeccable order.

Offering friendly surroundings, the development has several green areas and sporting facilities within easy reach, such as Mcgraths Field, Cappagh Recreational Park, Barna Woods and Galway Golf Course.

In terms of convenience, the estate is located just moments from Joyce’s Supermarket, Sheridans Bar & Restaurant and the Knocknacarra Gateway Retail Park.

Additionally, the Knocknacarra area is well serviced by quality transport links giving access to neighbouring areas and quick access to Galway City Centre, making this development the ideal area for owners, occupiers and families alike.

Just a ten minute drive will bring you to NUI Galway, UCHG and Galway city with all its amenities and services. There is a great local bus route to and from the city centre, with the bus stop conveniently positioned close to the main entrance of the development.

The development has all that one would require in terms of modern day family living, overlooking large green areas, mature trees, lawns & shrubs. 

This house would ideally suit an owner occupier or investor alike due to its convenient location within minutes of a host of local schools & sporting facilities and on an excellent road, bus and transport network. 

The property is on the market for €575,000, and viewing is highly recommended and guaranteed not to disappoint.

BER Details

BER: C2 BER No.107514440 Energy Performance Indicator:183.9 kWh/m²/yr

To see more of this property, see: https://property.odonnjoyce.com/residential/brochure/107-clybaun-heights-shangort-road-knocknacarra-galway-city/4462880

And to check out other Galway houses for sale, click HERE.

Galway United signs the returning Padraic Cunningham

0
Galway United signs the returning Padraic Cunningham

Galway United has made their first signing for the 2021 season with the addition of striker Padraic Cunningham to the team.

The 24 year old Headford native is returning to Eamon Deacy Park, where he spent four seasons starting in 2014, after a spell playing for Galway GAA.

Galway United manager John Caulfield said that Cunningham is an “aggressive” player with “lots of pace”, with great potential to benefit the Tribesmen.

“He’s at the perfect age and has a great attitude. He wanted to get involved and he’s keen to make a big impression next year.”

“Most importantly, he wants to play and he knows it’s going to be a big year for him. He was hell bent on coming back to the club, so it was an easy deal for me to conclude.”

It was recently announced that veteran striker Vinny Faherty would be retiring after a 14 season career, which saw him finish up his career back at his hometown club this season.

Faherty is one of six players departing Galway United in the off-season, along with Jack Lynch, Josh Smith, Timo Parthoens, Joe Collins and Conor Barry.

John Caulfield came on as the new manager for United partway through this season, with the club undergoing a startling turnaround that saw the Tribesman engage in a string of victories, ending just shy of qualifying for promotion to the Premiere Division.

Next year’s season will see Caulfield able to shape the team more to his style as the club continues to sign new and returning players.

Caulfield had been a fan of Cunningham while he was managing Cork City, and when the two spoke about his plans, it was easy for the striker to sign on.

“John has done a fantastic job since coming in and I’m over the moon to be joining for next season.”

“Knowing that John is a manager that has huge belief in me is massive. He’s a great man to learn off, he’s won it all as a player and manager and I’m looking forward to working with him.”

“It feels like it’s really promising times ahead and that the club is headed in the right direction.”

Call for IDA to step up efforts to locate industry in Tuam

0
Galway Daily news Calls for upgrades to Tuam roundabouts

East Galway TD Seán Canney has called on the IDA to step up their efforts to locate more industry in Tuam.

The Independent TD said the announcement of 60 job losses in Tuam should be a reality check, and demonstrates the need to expand the employment base of the town.

“I have spoken to the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs and Enterprise, Leo Varadkar about the Valeo announcement. He has confirmed that the Valeo facility in Tuam is safe,” said Deputy Canney.

He added that Tuam has spare capacity in sewerage and water facilities.

“It has strong broadband and is connected to all the major cities like Dublin, Limerick and Galway by motorway,” he said. “We have a great workforce pool.”

“It is important that the IDA concentrates on marketing the IDA vacant site in an effort to attract additional employment.

“Tuam has the potential to expand and now is the time for the IDA to concentrate their focus on Tuam”.

Coronavirus: 5 deaths and 10 Galway COVID cases

0
Galway Daily news Galway hospitals see COVID cases double in recent weeks

There have been five additional deaths related to COVID-19 notified by the Department of Health today, along with 456 new coronavirus cases.

Of the cases reported today 10 are in Galway. The 14-day incidence rate in the county now stands at 81 cases per 100,000 population.

All of the deaths which have been reported today occurred in November the Department said.

There have now been a total of 1,984 deaths related to COVID-19 in Ireland, and there have been 68,356 confirmed cases in the coronavirus pandemic.

Validation of data by the HPSC has resulted in the denotification of three cases, which is reflected in the national total.

As of 2pm this afternoon there are 274 people hospitalised with this disease in Ireland, of whom 33 are in Intensive Care. In the past 24 hours, 10 people have been hopsitalised.

Of the cases notified today:

  • 199 are men and 257 are women
  • 69% are under 45 years of age
  • the median age is 34 years old
  • 105 in Dublin, 85 in Limerick, 43 in Cork, 38 in Meath, 25 in Clare and the remaining 160 cases are spread across 21 other counties

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

Man hospitalised after three vehicle crash this morning

0
Galway Daily news missing teen found safe

A man is being treated at University Hospital Galway following a multi-vehicle crash this morning at Moneymore West outside Oranmore at 7.30am this morning.

Two people were injured in the three vehicle collision – a woman in her 40s was treated at the scene, while the man was taken to UHG for non-life-threatening injuries.

The road has since cleared and no arrests have been made.

Investigations are ongoing, gardaí say.

RTÉ News Managing Director to give ‘John Cunningham Journalism Lecture’

0
galway daily news rté managing director journalism lecture
Jon Williams, RTÉ News and Current Affairs Managing Director

RTÉ News and Current Affairs Managing Director Jon Williams will give the 2020 ‘John Cunningham Journalism Lecture’ hosted by NUI Galway this month.

The virtual conference will take place on Monday, 23 November, at 5.00pm with Mr Williams discussing ‘Why the Truth Matters’ and issues such as the importance of public service journalism and the dangers of misinformation.

This is the second year that NUI Galway has hosted the lecture which honours the late Connacht Tribune Editor and long-time journalism lecturer John Cunningham.

The inaugural lecture was given by the British academic and media commentator Professor Roy Greenslade in 2019.

“John Cunningham was one of Ireland’s best local newspaper editors and he made an indelible impression on the lives of the hundreds of journalists he trained as a lecturer in journalism,” said Tom Felle, Head of Journalism and Communication at NUI Galway.

“We are delighted to be able to honour his memory with this public lecture that has become an important annual event.”

Jon Williams is Managing Director of News and Current Affairs at RTÉ since January 2017.

Previously he was Managing Editor, International News, at ABC News in New York, where he shaped the organisation’s international news coverage and strategy.

He led that station’s reporting of the war in Ukraine, the European refugee crisis, and the coverage of the ISIS terrorist attacks in Europe, as well as driving innovation, including the use of 360 and virtual reality video.

Previously he held positions as Deputy Editor of the Six O’Clock News; World News Editor; and UK News Editor with BBC News. Jon holds numerous accolades including the 2013 International Prize from the Royal Television Society.

The event is free and open to the public. To register email journalism@nuigalway.ie or join the webinar on Monday, 23 November at https://bit.ly/cunninghamlecture . 

Galway people urged to take part in ‘Sprint for Simon’ Christmas challenge

0
galway daily news simon community galway christmas challenge

Galway Simon Community is calling on people across the West to take part in their brand new Sprint for Simon – 12 Days of Christmas Challenge.

The new initiative was launched to raise vital funds for their frontline services, and also help promote mental well-being during these difficult times.

Those taking part in the challenge are asked to run, walk, or jog 1 kilometre every day for the 12 days of Christmas, while at the same time raising much-needed funds for the local charity.

From 25 December, people across Galway and the West can participate each day in a place of their choice, whether it is on the Salthill prom, the Long Walk, on their local pitch or even in their garden.

While Christmas is usually a time for giving and enjoying time with loved ones, for those facing homelessness, Christmas can be a particularly challenging time.

So far this year, Galway Simon has supported over a thousand individuals through their Homelessness Prevention and Housing Services.

The pandemic and the economic fallout from it have put a lot of people in very precarious and uncertain situations which the charity believes could result in an increased demand for their services over the coming year.

At the same time, Galway Simon’s ability to raise funds has taken a huge hit, with the closure of their shops throughout lockdown, as well as the cancellation of many fundraising events.

Speaking about the event, Amy Lavelle, Community & Youth Partnership Coordinator with Galway Simon, said this brand new fitness fundraiser will be vital in helping them safeguard their essential services

“As the economic effects of the Covid-19 crisis take hold, many already very vulnerable people are now facing the real risk of losing their home. At the same time our fundraising activities continue to be massively impacted,” said Amy.

“By signing up to take part in this challenge, not only will you be doing something positive for your own health and well-being over the Christmas break, you will also be helping to protect vulnerable individuals and families in our community from the risk of homelessness – and from Covid-19.”

Local fitness trainer and influencer, Jason Mitchell Fitness is supporting the event this year, encouraging people across the West to register to take part and make a real difference.

Speaking about his involvement, he said that he is delighted to be part of the first ever Sprint for Simon challenge this Christmas in aid of Galway Simon.

“I am passionate about promoting positive physical and mental wellbeing in our community,” Jason said.

“I think this is a great way for people to keep active while also supporting those facing homelessness at a very difficult time of year.”

To take part in Sprint for Simon, you can simply register on www.galwaysimon.ie and sprint, run or walk 1k a day in a safe place of your choice from December 25th to January 5th.

Research team at NUI Galway receives grant to develop rapid Covid-19 test

0
galway daily news covid test

Researchers from NUI Galway have received a grant of almost €200,000 from the Health Research Board to develop a handheld device to quickly detect the virus which causes Covid-19.

The device, which they aim to have available in early 2021, will also test for antibodies to the virus in human samples.

The test device is already being sold and the research team are developing a Covid test to work with it in order to produce and distribute large quantities within a short period of time.

The rapid test can be used by anyone, such as airport officials or school principals.

Professor Gerard Wall, of Microbiology, College of Science and Engineering and SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices (CÚRAM) at NUI Galway, is leading the research along with Professors Patrick Johnson and Karen Wawrousek from the University of Wyoming’s Department of Chemical Engineering.

“Rapid detection of the virus on-site will allow potentially infectious people to be identified so that decisions on isolation and treatment can be made immediately,” said Professor Gerard Wall, NUI Galway.

“There are clear applications for this type of device in airports, workplaces or schools, among other locations.”

Professor Patrick Johnson, University of Wyoming, said that the latest test will have higher sensitivity than other rapid tests and will not require any sample preparation.

“The idea is to have an accurate, portable, on-site test with results within 15-20 minutes. This will allow rapid answers while the person is still present, enabling immediate intervention and treatment,” he said.

Samples can be collected from saliva, nasal swab or blood. The samples will then be placed in glass vials and inserted into hand-held instruments, called Raman spectrometers, for analysis.

Five confirmed COVID-19 cases at UHG

0
galway daily news Just one COVID patient in the ICU at University Hospital Galway

The number of confirmed COVID-19 patients hospitalised in Galway has gone up to five people according to the latest figures.

All five of the confirmed hospitalizations are at University Hospital Galway as of 8pm on Sunday night.

Though the number of hospital patients has increased marginally, there remain no confirmed or suspected COVID-19 patients in Intensive Care here.

There are a further seven suspected cases in Galway hospitals, five at UHG and two at Portiuncula.

On Sunday there were 15 new cases reported in Galway, bringing the county’s 14 day incidence rate down to just 86 cases per 100,000 population.

Galway TD criticises long delays in setting up parental leave payments

0
Galway Daily news Lack of Island specific group in LEADER programme criticised

Galway TD Claire Kerrane has accused the government of “failing families under pressure” for the lengthy delays in the introduction of additional parental leave.

In Budget 2021 it was announced that parents of children up to two years old will be able to claim five weeks of paid parental leave, up from two weeks previously.

While parent’s will be able to claim their leave as soon as legislation is passed to enable it, they will not actually be paid for it until approximately April of 2021.

At a meeting of the Select Committee on Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands last week, Minister Heather Humphreys said that a number of changes have to be made to the department’s IT systems to enable the payment.

Currently staff at the department are “prioritising” work on delivering the pandemic unemployment payments, and the christmas bonus is also being expanded, which also requires changes to the social welfare IT systems the

“It is expected that the system changes in respect of parent’s benefit will be in place at the end of March 2021. We will make the payment for the leave that was taken.”

“Once the legislation goes through, the parents can take the leave and they will get the payment as soon as we get it processed and the IT systems updated.”

“It will be backdated so parents can take the leave in January. They may not get the money until a month or two later but they will definitely get the money and it will be backdated.”

Deputy Kerrane, who is the Sinn Féin spokesperson for Social Protection, said, “such vagueness is wholly inappropriate for a policy of this importance for families across the country.”

Dur to the effect that COVID-19 has had on the childcare sector, with reduced capacity at businesses that have reopened, new parents are left in the position where they may have to return to work, but cannot access childcare Kerrane said.

“This ongoing poor handling of this issue is causing huge anger and confusion for parents who are trying to make decisions about caring for their new baby and some being left with no option but to take unpaid leave, leaving them under financial strain. ”

“I am once again urging the Government to take this issue seriously and give families the clarity they need. Parents are under huge pressure and they need support and clarity now, not vague promises and unnecessary delays.”

Power outage in Athenry affecting over 100 homes

0
Galway Daily news SHundreds of homes remain without power in Galway after severe weather

A power outage is affecting the electricity supply to more than 100 homes and businesses in the Athenry area this morning.

The fault, which was first reported by the ESB at 08:40 this morning, is affecting 105 properties in the area.

Repairs are currently expected to be completed, and the power outage resolved, by 12:15pm.

 

Galway Lifeboat rescues two stranded by the tide in Galway Bay

0
Galway Daily news Lough Derg RNLI rescue two people after boat strikes rocks

The Galway RNLI lifeboat came to the rescue of two people who found themselves cut off and trapped by the rising tide in Galway Bay on Sunday.

Two people, a man and a woman, had walked out to Seaweed Point near Blackrock on Sunday afternoon, when the spring tide submerged the way back, cutting them off.

An alert member of the public raised the alarm, and the Coast Guard sought the assistance of the Galway RNLI, which launched its lifeboat at 4:43pm.

While the lifeboat was on its way the man, unaware that help was coming, began swimming to shore to try and get help.

He was met there by a member of the RNLI station shorecrew, and confirmed to them that another person was still stranded.

This information was conveyed to the lifeboat crew, who located the woman sheltering from the wind after searching the area.

The two were brought back to the lifeboat station, where it was found that they did not require medical attention.

The crew on this call out were Helmsman Dave Badger, Brian Niland, David McGrath and Ross Forde.

Irish Water’s delivery of new treatment plants not working, says Galway TD

0
galway daily news wastewater treatment clean water galway sean canney

Galway East TD Seán Canney has called on the government to fast-track clean water and wastewater treatment services in towns and villages.

The Independent TD said that the Environmental Protection Agency’s 2019 report is highly critical of Irish Water’s delivery of new treatment plants.

The Report notes that 35 towns and villages continue to discharge raw sewerage into nearby waters.

“Places like Craughwell, Corofin, Abbeyknockmoy are examples of towns and Villages that have no Sewerage treatment facilities provided by Irish Water,” said Deputy Canney.

“These town and villages cannot develop to meet the demand for housing or cope with the threat of pollution from existing housing estates.”

He said that Galway is one of the worst counties in terms of the provision of Municipal Treatment Plants and said that it is an ‘environmental time bomb’.

“The report also identifies 113 priority areas where improvements are urgently needed to prevent pollution, eliminate discharges, meet EU treatment standards and protect bathing waters.

“We need to protect our environment and our communities. We must support people living in communities to develop growth centres.

“But towns and villages need investment to provide the infrastructure necessary to attract families to live, work and raise their families, and clean water and wastewater systems are essential components to grow communities.”

Deputy Canney said that in order to address some of these issues, local authorities and developers require clear policies and actions to ensure proper planning takes place.

“The implementation of a development lead infrastructure scheme to fast track infrastructural development in our towns and villages to create balanced development is long overdue,” added the East Galway TD.

Seán Canney along with the Regional Group of TDs published motion in relation to the issue, calling on the Government to create a strategic plan to make regional development a reality.