Eight projects led or supported by Galway County Council have been shortlisted for this year’s Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards, the highest number of nominations secured by the council since the awards began.

Now in their 23rd year, the awards recognise work being carried out by Ireland’s 31 local authorities across a range of areas including community development, social inclusion, climate action, recreation, culture and public services.

The Galway projects shortlisted are the Connemara Dementia Café Initiative, Park Lodge, the 60+ Climate Drive, the Tuam Palace Grounds Sensory Garden and Active Recreation project, Leenane Community Park, the Ballinasloe Multicultural Midsummer Festival, Tiny Mutiny and Scoil an Phiarsaigh 2025.

Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway Cllr Andrew Reddington said the shortlist was recognition of the work being carried out in communities throughout the county.

“It is vital that the excellent work carried out by local authorities is showcased to the wider community and that the contribution local government makes to people’s lives every day is recognised,” he said.

“Elected Members proudly support a wide range of community, cultural, social and environmental projects across Galway. To see eight projects shortlisted nationally is a tremendous achievement and a great recognition of the work being done by Council staff, community groups and organisations across the county.”

Chief Executive Liam Conneally said, “The significant number of shortlisted projects reflects the ambitious approach Galway County Council has taken over the past number of years across a wide range of work areas.”

“These nominations demonstrate the innovation and creativity of our elected members and staff, together with the collaborative approach we take in working with our communities and a wide range of partners and stakeholders.”

Michael Owens, Director of Services with responsibility for Corporate Services and Rural, Community and Tourism Development and Integration, added that the projects demonstrated the breadth of work being undertaken across the county.

“What is particularly encouraging is the diversity of the projects shortlisted. They reflect the breadth of work being undertaken by Galway County Council, from supporting people living with dementia and people with disabilities to climate action, recreation, community development, festivals, youth arts and cultural initiatives,” he said.

“These projects are rooted in the communities they serve, with many delivered in partnership with local groups, organisations, elected members and other stakeholders.”

Shortlisted projects

The Connemara Dementia Café Initiative has established five new monthly Dementia Cafés across the region, building on cafés in Roundstone and Letterfrack. Supported by Forum Connemara, the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, Galway County Council and funding partners, the cafés provide a welcoming, dementia friendly setting with refreshments, arts and crafts, gentle exercise and memory book projects.

Park Lodge is an accessible purpose-built supported home for three people with high support needs associated with intellectual disability and autism. The development located in Tuam provides a safe and comfortable living environment supporting residents’ independence, wellbeing and quality of life.  It is an example of the collaborative and partnership approach between Galway County Council and Ability West in accordance with the objectives of the Strategic Plan for Housing People with a Disability.

The 60+ Climate Drive is a grassroots initiative founded by Jacinta Barrins and supported by Galway County Council through the Age Friendly Programme. The six-week course engages people aged over 60 in practical climate action and helps participants identify simple ways to reduce their carbon footprint.

The Tuam Palace Grounds Sensory Garden and Active Recreation project has transformed part of the historic grounds into an inclusive outdoor space combining a sensory garden with active recreation facilities, providing opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to connect with nature and improve health and wellbeing.

Leenane Community Park has been developed as a safe, sustainable and accessible recreational hub overlooking Killary Harbour. Improvements include walkways, seating and inclusive facilities, with the latest phase adding sensory play equipment for children and families.

The Ballinasloe Multicultural Midsummer Festival celebrates cultural diversity, inclusion and community spirit, bringing local people and newcomers together through food, music, dance, sports, games and activities for all ages.

Tiny Mutiny is an Arts Office supported youth arts programme giving teenagers across County Galway the opportunity to develop creative ideas with professional artist mentors and practical support. Now in its third year, it supports emerging artists across music, literature, film, visual art, illustration and poetry, culminating in a Culture Night showcase at The Mall Theatre in Tuam.

Scoil an Phiarsaigh 2025 was a two-day cultural and educational event in Ros Muc celebrating Patrick Pearse’s connection to Connemara and his commitment to the Irish language, education and culture. The event brought together educators, students, artists and cultural figures and attracted more than 300 attendees.

The Excellence in Local Government Awards are sponsored by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and Perigús. The awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, 26 November at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dublin.

A young boy has died after a car he was travelling in was hit by a train in Co. Mayo on Thursday night.

The 12-year old boy was the passenger in a car which was involved in a collision at a level crossing in Kiltybo near Ballyhaunis shortly before 9pm.

The boy was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the car, a man in his 40s, was taken to hospital for non life-threatening injuries.

Gardaí have said that  technical examination of the scene will be carried out. The road remains closed at this time.

The coroner has been notified and the deceased has been removed to the mortuary at Mayo University Hospital where a post-mortem examination will be arranged.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to this incident to come forward.

Road users and pedestrians with camera footage (including dash-cam) who were in the area of Kiltybo, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo, on Thursday 3rd September 2026 between 8.15pm and 9.15pm are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Ballina Garda Station on (096) 20560, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

Roadworks are to take place at the Bóthar Stiofáin/Gateway Shopping Park junction (the junction at Lidl), beginning from Monday September 7.

These roadworks will last for one week and will be carried out by Jons Civil Engineering Ltd. on behalf of the Active Travel Department of Galway City Council.

The purpose of these works is to reduce the height of the raised junction at this junction, on foot of feedback received since the completion of works on the Bóthar Stiofáin Cycle Network Scheme.

Vehicular access will be restricted at this junction at all times between 7:30 a.m. on Monday September 7 and 5 p.m. on Friday September 11. Access for walkers, wheelers and cyclists will be maintained.

Motorists wishing to access Gateway Shopping Park from the Western Distributor Road are requested to proceed via the An Logán Roundabout Junction.

Motorists wishing to access Gateway Shopping Park from the Rahoon Road are requested to proceed via the junction adjacent to the Gort Gréine estate.

Signage will be in place to advise motorists of diversion routes via Western Distributor Road and via Rahoon Road.

Access to all businesses, schools and homes will be facilitated via the diversion routes.

All-Ireland trophies and champions will join some of the biggest names in world golf at the Amgen Irish Open next month, bringing together two of Ireland’s biggest sporting passions.

With Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry and Jon Rahm among the star names set to tee it up at Doonbeg, GAA fans will also have the chance to meet some of this year’s All-Ireland champions when the heroes of the 2026 Championships take to the main stage at the island of Ireland’s national open.

The All-Ireland winners from all four codes – football, hurling, ladies football and camogie – will make special appearances at the tournament, bringing the Sam Maguire, Liam McCarthy, O’Duffy and Brendan Martin Cups to the main stage as they meet supporters and take part in live question-and-answer sessions.

The 2026 Amgen Irish Open takes place from September 9-13 at Trump International Golf Links Ireland in Doonbeg, Co. Clare, with the GAA champions adding an extra sporting dimension to what promises to be a spectacular week for sports fans.

Thursday Afternoon: Cork Camogie and Limerick Hurling Champions

On Thursday, September 10, the focus will turn to the All-Ireland winners in camogie and hurling.

Cork’s All-Ireland-winning camogie stars Meabh Cahalane (captain) and her sister Orlaith Cahalane will appear on the main stage with the O’Duffy Cup, giving fans the opportunity to hear about their journey to becoming champions.

They will be joined by Limerick hurling captain Cian Lynch and Gearóid Hegarty, who will bring the Liam McCarthy Cup to Doonbeg following their All-Ireland triumph.

Friday Afternoon: Mayo Football and Galway Ladies Football Champions

On Friday, September 11, it will be the turn of the All-Ireland football champions.

Mayo stars Ryan O’Donoghue and Aidan O’Shea will appear on stage with the Sam Maguire Cup, sharing their experiences of reaching the pinnacle of Gaelic football.

They will be joined by Galway All-Ireland winning footballers Róisín Leonard and Shauna Hynes, celebrating their own championship success and giving fans an insight into what it takes to become an All-Ireland champion.

The live sessions will give supporters a unique opportunity to hear directly from some of the biggest names in Gaelic games, ask questions and see the coveted All-Ireland trophies up close.

With the very best of golf taking centre stage throughout the week, the GAA celebrations will add another major sporting attraction for fans attending the Amgen Irish Open, bringing together two of Ireland’s biggest sporting passions.

TG4 has commissioned a new current affairs panel series, Mo Thír Mo Thuairim, produced by Dundara Television & Media and presented by broadcaster Cormac Ó hEadhra from An Cheathrú Rua.

The new 15-part series will bring together younger voices, emerging campaigners, commentators, experts, politicians and decision-makers for lively and sometimes challenging conversations about the issues shaping Ireland today and the kind of country the next generation wants Ireland to become.

Recorded at Dundara’s television studio in Allenwood, Co. Kildare, Mo Thír Mo Thuairim will take a fresh approach to the traditional current affairs panel programme, putting younger people and their lived experiences at the centre of the conversation.

Housing, the cost of living, education, employment, climate, digital life and social media will be among the issues explored throughout the series.

The programme will also go beyond the headlines to examine bigger questions around identity, language, culture, politics, community and belonging in a rapidly changing Ireland.

At the heart of the series is a simple idea: rather than having conversations about younger generations, Mo Thír Mo Thuairim will bring them directly into the conversation.

Contributors will have the opportunity to question and challenge those involved in making decisions that affect their lives, while politicians, policy-makers and other public figures will hear first-hand the experiences and concerns of a generation that will live longest with many of the choices being made today.

Presenter Cormac Ó hEadhra said, “Mo Thír Mo Thuairim will bring fresh energy and urgency to national debate, giving a dedicated platform to younger voices, emerging activists and the decision makers shaping their future.”

“Each episode will centre on lived experience, including housing pressures, digital life, climate anxiety, education, work and community, with contributors speaking frankly about what it means to navigate modern Ireland.”

“Crucially, the series will also explore deeper questions of language, identity, culture and politics, acknowledging that Ireland’s future is shaped not only by economics but by who we are and how we see ourselves.”

“By blending hard policy debate with cultural reflection, we want to offer a richer, more nuanced portrait of Ireland today and create a space where younger audiences feel represented rather than spoken about.”

For Dundara Television & Media, the commission also marks an important milestone, with the entire 15-part series being produced from the independent production company’s studio facility in Allenwood, Co. Kildare.

The commission represents a significant expansion of Dundara’s television production activity and its investment in producing broadcast programming from its Kildare base.

Enda Grace, Producer and Director at Dundara Television & Media, said, “From the beginning, we wanted Mo Thír Mo Thuairim to feel different. We didn’t want to create a programme where we sit back and talk about younger people and what we think matters to them.”

“We want them in the room, driving the conversation, challenging assumptions and putting their questions directly to the people with the power to make decisions.”

“There is an enormous amount happening in Ireland right now, and a generation coming through who are informed, articulate and very clear about the kind of country they want to inherit. Our job as programme makers is to give those voices the space they deserve, while creating robust, fair and engaging debate.”

Galway City Council and Galway County Council, supported by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Siochana, have launched a new road safety drive aimed at cutting deaths and serious injuries in Galway by half by the end of the decade.

The Galway City and County Road Safety Strategy 2026-2030 was launched today at Áras an Chontae, with the local authorities setting a target of reducing road deaths and serious injuries by 15% by 2027 and by 50% by 2030 under the national Vision Zero approach.

The strategy comes after 51 people were killed and 360 seriously injured on Galway roads between 2021 and 2025.

More than half of those killed or seriously injured were involved in collisions on roads with speed limits of 80km/h or higher, while young people aged between 16 and 25 accounted for more than one in five casualties.

The five-year plan sets out 50 actions focused on safer roads, reducing speed-related collisions, improving infrastructure, encouraging safer road use and strengthening enforcement.

The strategy is based on the Safe System approach, which recognises that while mistakes by road users cannot be eliminated, the road network, vehicle safety and speed management can be improved to prevent deaths and life-changing injuries.

Leas-Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Councillor Michael Regan, said, “The launch of this strategy marks an important commitment to making our roads safer for everyone. As a regular road user, I see first-hand the impact that poor driving behaviour can have.”

“While infrastructure, weather and road conditions all play a role, changing driver behaviour must remain central to improving road safety. This strategy recognises that road safety is a shared responsibility, and every one of us has a part to play in protecting ourselves and others on our roads.”

Mayor of the City of Galway, Councillor Helen Ogbu, said, “Behind every statistic is a person, a family and a community whose lives have been changed forever. As Galway continues to grow, creating a transport network that is safe and accessible for everyone is essential.”

“Whether we travel by car, bicycle, on foot or by public transport, we all have a role to play in preventing collisions and protecting lives. This strategy provides a clear framework for achieving that together.”

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said, “The Council has responsibility for almost 7,000 kilometres of roads, and our priority is clear: to make every one of those roads safer.”

“Every collision prevented and every life saved matters. This strategy brings together our partners and communities with one shared goal, to reduce deaths and serious injuries on Galway’s roads.”

Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, said, “This strategy commits Galway City Council to delivering safer streets, better infrastructure and stronger partnerships so that walking, cycling, public transport and driving can all be undertaken more safely.”

“Every serious collision has lasting consequences for families and communities, and we have a responsibility to reduce that risk.”

The strategy has been jointly developed by Galway County and City Councils with support from An Garda Síochána, the RSA, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the National Transport Authority, An Taisce and community partners

Inspector Adrian Queeney, Roads Policing Unit, Galway Division, said enforcement alone would not eliminate deaths and serious injuries on the roads.

“Lasting progress depends on strong partnerships, education, safer infrastructure and responsible behaviour from every road user,” he said.

“An Garda Síochána will continue to target the behaviours that cause the greatest harm, including speeding, impaired driving, mobile phone use and seatbelt offences, while working with our partners to make Galway’s roads safer for everyone.”

The Saw Doctors and Sunflower Children’s Hospice have joined forces for a special fundraising initiative at the band’s sold-out Castlebar gigs this weekend, with 750 limited-edition t-shirts being made available to fans.

The specially designed Saw Doctors t-shirts will be available for €25 at the band’s two shows at the TF Royal, Castlebar this Friday and Saturday, September 4-5, with all proceeds going towards the Sunflower Children’s Hospice.

The front of the t-shirt features Declan Colohan’s photo of The Saw Doctors performing their iconic song ‘Green and Red of Mayo’ with the back print featuring the lyrics of the first verse of the song, courtesy of writers Leo Moran, Davy Carton and Jarír Al-Majar.

The fundraising initiative comes as plans progress for the Sunflower Children’s Hospice in Castlebar, which will provide essential care and support for children with life-limiting illnesses and their families across eight counties on the western seaboard.

Funded by the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, the project will be the first children’s hospice to be built outside Dublin and the first of its kind to be constructed in Ireland since 2011.

A site has already been secured in Castlebar, with the Government and HSE committed to supporting clinical governance. Construction will begin later this year.

Leo Moran of The Saw Doctors said, “The Saw Doctors are over the moon to have been a part of the soundtrack to Mayo’s momentous All-Ireland win and we’re looking forward big time to celebrating with the Mayo people in Castlebar. The special event t-shirt with all sales going to Sunflower Children’s Hospice will be a lovely bonus for the occasion.”

Martina Jennings, CEO Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, said, “The support of Pat Jennings from the TF Royal Theatre and The Saw Doctors is hugely appreciated. To have such an iconic band using the excitement and pride surrounding the green and red to raise funds for the Sunflower Children’s Hospice is incredibly special.”

“The Sunflower Children’s Hospice will provide vital care and support for children with life-limiting illnesses and their families across the West of Ireland, and we have wonderful support in our communities, corporates and individuals who are working hard to make this much-needed facility in Castlebar a reality.”

Every euro raised brings us one step closer to opening the doors of the new hospice and providing families with the specialist care and support they need, close to home.”

Volunteers in Portumna and Tuam have put their communities in the spotlight during a two-day judging visit for the IPB Pride of Place competition.

Pride of Place adjudicators Tom Dowling and Peter Hynes visited Portumna on Monday before travelling to Tuam on today, where they met volunteers, community groups, young people and local organisations.

Portumna Tidy Towns and Tuam Women’s Shed have been nominated by Galway County Council to represent the county in the 24^th annual all-island competition, which recognises the achievements of voluntary groups and organisations working to improve local areas through volunteering, inclusion and regeneration.

Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway, Cllr Andrew Reddington, said the visits had highlighted the commitment of volunteers in both towns. “Pride of Place is about recognising people who give their time because they care about where they live.”

“What we have seen in Portumna and Tuam over the two days is a huge amount of energy, commitment and pride. These are communities where people don’t wait for someone else to make things happen. They get involved themselves, and that is something we should be very proud of.”

Galway County Council Chief Executive Liam Conneally said the competition provided an opportunity to showcase work which often happens away from the spotlight. “The Pride of Place competition gives communities the chance to showcase the work that goes on in Galway County communities quietly throughout the year.”

“In Portumna and Tuam we have seen people taking real ownership of their communities and working together to create places that are welcoming, vibrant and inclusive. The level of voluntary commitment is hugely impressive and is a credit to everyone involved.”

Portumna Tidy Towns is representing Galway in the Community Tourism Initiative category.  The group has led a range of projects aimed at improving the town’s environment while showcasing its heritage and attractions, including Portumna Castle, the Blueway, Forest Park and the restored courthouse.

The theme of the judges’ visit to the town on Monday was ‘Portumna – This is Us’, with the town’s community spirit, heritage and tourism offering taking centre stage. The judging began at the newly refurbished Portumna Courthouse with a performance by the Portumna Community School Chamber Choir.

The judges then took part in an extensive tour of the town, including a boat trip on Lough Derg, Portumna Abbey, Portumna Castle and Gardens, the Arts Park and playground, the Irish Workhouse Centre and Portumna Forest Park.

Tuam Women’s Shed is representing Galway in the Inclusive Communities category.

Established in 2021, the group has grown into an important community organisation focused on wellbeing, inclusion and social connection.

The judges visited Tuam Palace Grounds and met representatives of the local Indian community, Galway Sports Partnership youth leaders, Trinity Primary School and High Cross College, as well as Galway County Council’s Integration Team.  They also heard about health and accessibility initiatives involving the Irish Wheelchair Association, HSE and Ability West.

The visit included the Michael McGrath Sensory Garden and Nicola’s Dog Park, with members of Tuam Tidy Towns, Circle of Friends and the Tuam Active Retirement Association also taking part.

Michael Owens, Director of Services with Galway County Council, said the judging visits demonstrated the breadth of community activity taking place across Galway. “What really stood out was the range of people involved, from young people and schools to sporting organisations, businesses, community groups and older residents.”

“Portumna has shown how heritage, tourism and environmental projects can come together to promote a town, while Tuam Women’s Shed has shown how community-led projects can create greater inclusion and connection. Both are excellent examples of what can be achieved when people come together and take pride in their community.”

Organised by Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance, the awards honour communities that have shown outstanding commitment to creating vibrant, inclusive and sustainable places to live.

County Galway has enjoyed notable success in the competition in recent years. Clarinbridge won the 300-1,000 Population category at last year’s awards in Limerick, while Creggs Rural Development Group secured victory in its category in 2023.

The winners of the 2026 IPB Pride of Place competition will be announced at the national awards ceremony in the Convention Centre Dublin on 24 October.

Gardaí are investigating the alleged assault and false imprisonment of a man at Ardrahan over the weekend.

Around 2pm on Saturday, August 29, Gardaí received a report of the discovery of a man with injuries at Castletaylor North, Ardrahan.

The man, aged in his 40s, was brought by ambulance to University Hospital Galway for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to this incident to come forward.

Anyone who was in the areas of Manninard and Castletaylor, Ardrahan, between 12:30pm and 2:00pm on 29th August and has video camera footage (including dash-cam), is asked to make it available to Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Gort Garda Station on 091 636400, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

A waste collection event for hazardous materials will take place in Galway City next week for local households to dispose of items that shouldn’t just go in the rubbish.

Galway City Council is holding the one day hazardous waste disposal event at Ballybrit Racecourse on Saturday, September 5.

Examples of the type of waste that is best disposed of at these events include:

• Household Chemicals: Disinfectants, detergents, bleach, oven cleaners, toilet bowl cleaners, and other potent cleaning agents.
• Personal Care Products: Nail polish, nail polish remover, aerosols, and other chemical-based cosmetic products.
• Garden Chemicals: Pesticides, herbicides, and other chemical treatments used in lawn and garden care.
• Paints: Leftover paint and paint related products such as paintbrushes and rollers.
• Solvents: Varnishes, thinners, strippers, inks, glues, resins, and other solvent-based products.
• Automotive Products: Used motor oil, petrol, diesel, antifreeze, surface polish, and other automotive fluids.

This event will run from 8am – 12pm next Saturday, subject to capacity limits. Only people who have booked ahead of time will gain entry.

Booking costs €10 for entry. There is a limit of 10 paint cans per and 25 litres of motor oil per customer. Commercial waste will not be accepted.

A weather warning for heavy rain with a risk of thunderstorms is in effect for Galway and all of Ireland today.

Met Éireann has issued a status yellow rain and thunderstorm warning which will be in place until 9pm tonight.

“Widespread heavy showers or longer spells of rain, with thunderstorms bringing some lightning and hail.”

Possible impacts today include localised flooding and difficult travelling conditions, with some lighting damage and impacts on outdoor events.

Gardaí in Galway City have seizied multiple e-scooters and an electric motorbike in recent weeks, including one e-scooter capable of doing 82km/h.

On Thursday evening Gardaí seized two e-scooters and an electric motorbike in the Cappagh Park area of Knocknacarra, all of which were being driven by young teenagers.

One of the scooters was tested and found to be capable of speeds up to 82km/h.

Prior to this, on August 11 & 12, the Road Policing and Community Policing units in Galway City seized seven e-scooters, including one being used by an 11-year old.

One e-scooter tested on a dynamometer was found to be capable of travelling at 74km/h, despite the 20km/h limit.

Fines were issued for offences including breaking red lights and using pedestrianised areas and footpaths.

Students receiving CAO offers are being urged to be careful of rental scams when looking for accommodation, with a sharp spike expected in the coming months.

Crime figures for the first seven months of 2026 show over 230 reports of rental and reservations scams, with total reported losses standing at over €400,000.

This comes ahead of the seasonal peak – historically August and October – as returning and first-time students scramble to find housing.

Rental scams generally fall into three distinct categories during the high-pressure college search season:

• The Absent Landlord: The scammer claims to be out of the country and demands an upfront deposit before keys or physical access can be provided.

• The Fake Host/Mass Showing: The fraudster poses as an occupant or fake agent, showing the property to multiple prospective tenants, collecting deposits from all of them, and disappearing.

• The Key Failure: The transaction appears entirely legitimate until the tenant arrives with their belongings only to discover the keys do not work, the property is already occupied, or the landlord has vanished.

Highlighting the need for vigilance during the high-pressure college search, Detective Inspector Alan Govern of the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) strongly advised students and parents to stick strictly to verified channels:

“Students should only use recognised letting agencies or deal with people who are bona fide and trusted. If searching online, always check the URL to ensure it is a real website and take note of the privacy and refund policy sections.

“Be very wary of social media advertisements or where a person letting the property will only communicate via Messenger or WhatsApp. You should push for direct answers; if responses are vague, disengage immediately.

“If you have decided to take up an offer, only use trusted money transfer systems – I would recommend using a credit card. Never transfer money directly, pay cash, or pay into cryptocurrency wallets.”

The Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) advises students and parents to look out for critical warning signs:

• Unrealistically low prices: if a room or apartment costs significantly less than others in the same area, it is almost certainly a trick.

• They rush you: Scammers try to panic you into paying quickly by claiming it’s a “once-in-a-lifetime offer” or demanding money immediately before you’ve even signed a lease.

• They want unusual or untraceable payment; be suspicious if they ask you to pay in cash, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or through peer-to-peer transfer apps where you cannot get your money back.

• They refuse to let you see the place: If the “landlord” always has an excuse for why you can’t do an in-person walkthrough or meet face-to-face, then walk away.
Advice for students seeking housing:

• Always physically view the accommodation and ensure keys fit by opening the locks before handing over any money.

• Pay using a credit card or secure, traceable banking methods where consumer protections apply. Never pay via cash, cryptocurrency, or peer-to-peer apps to strangers.

• Use the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) rent index to benchmark average asking prices in the local college area.

• Ask for official photo identification (such as a driver’s licence or passport) and ensure the property is registered with the RTB.

• Reverse-image search property photos online to ensure they have not been stolen from other legitimate advertisements.

The HSE is encouraging parents to protect their babies against RSV this winter as the 2026-2027 RSV Infant Immunisation Programme starts from Tuesday 1 September.

Free RSV immunisation will be offered to eligible babies through maternity hospitals and participating GP practices, helping to protect them from serious illness caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Who will be offered RSV immunisation?

For the 2026-2027 programme:

• Babies born between September 1, 2026 and February 28, 2027 will be offered RSV immunisation in maternity hospitals before they go home, where possible.
• Babies born between March 1 and August 31, 2026 can receive RSV immunisation through participating GP practices.
• Eligible babies at higher risk of serious RSV illness will be offered immunisation through a specialist pathway.

Dr Áine McNamara, Regional Director of Public Health, HSE West and North West said, “RSV is a common seasonal virus during autumn and winter, but it can be particularly serious for some young babies.”

“The RSV immunisation programme provides protection from the outset and continues throughout the season, helping to keep babies safe when RSV is circulating most widely.”

“Over the last two years, RSV immunisation has had a significant positive impact in Ireland, it has reduced the number of babies who become very unwell with RSV and require hospitalisation. International evidence suggests that immunisation is over 80% effective at preventing RSV-associated lower respiratory tract infections.”

Last winter, more than 37,000 infants were immunised against RSV. 88% of babies born September to February 2026 received the immunisation in maternity hospitals, and the uptake rate among high-risk infants was 100%.

The programme reduced RSV-related hospitalisations by 70% among babies born during the RSV season. Across eligible groups, infant immunisation is estimated to have averted over 1,000 ED presentations, hospitalisations and ICU admissions, significantly reducing the burden of RSV illness among infants in Ireland.

Dr Patrick Kelly of the Irish College of General Practitioners said, “We would encourage parents of babies who were born between March and August to take up the offer through participating GP practices ideally before the RSV season.”

“RSV immunisation can be given safely alongside routine childhood vaccines, meaning parents do not need to delay their baby’s scheduled vaccinations.”

“Parents who have questions about RSV immunisation should speak to their healthcare professional, who can provide trusted information and advice.”

RSV is a common and highly contagious winter virus. While it usually causes mild respiratory illness, it can cause serious illness in babies and young children, particularly during their first winter.

RSV immunisation is provided through a single dose of nirsevimab, which gives babies immediate protection during the RSV season and helps protect against severe RSV infection and hospitalisation.

For more information about RSV immunisation and eligibility, visit HSE.ie/RSV.

Pump Lane in Galway City’s westend has had a serious makeover, with five Galway-based street and graffiti artists turning its walls into a new open-air gallery.

The Pump Lane creative weekend kicked off on Thursday, bringing artists and the local community together to transform the laneway through paint, creativity and a bit of Galway attitude.

The brief was simple: give the artists the walls and let them go for it.

Each artist brought their own style, perspective and personality to the space, creating a mix of street art and graffiti that feels right at home in the westend.

There is plenty of Galway in the finished work too, with Irish language, local slang and references to the city’s street art culture appearing across the walls.

The project also respects what was already there. Pump Lane’s protected structures and history were an important part of the process, with the new artwork adding a contemporary layer without losing the character of the place.

And it wasn’t just the artists who got stuck in. The west community helped prepare the laneway, clearing and weeding the area before the painting began.

“Regeneration of urban spaces by the people is key to making towns and cities safer and more enjoyable places to live,” said project lead Lisa Regan.

“We wanted to give people another reason to walk through Pump Lane, and what better way to do that than with art, colour and the creativity of five brilliant Galway artists?”

“Everyone brought something different to the walls and that is what makes the finished space work. It feels very Galway, very Westend and very much of its place. More art, more colour and more community initiatives, we say.”

The project was supported by Creative Ireland and Galway City Council. For more, check out Galways westend across social media and at www.galwayswestend.ie.