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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Business & Finance, in association with KPMG, have announced the shortlist for the 51st annual Business & Finance Awards 2025.

Two Galway companies, MBRYONICS and Platform94, have been shortlisted for the awards, which will take place in December.

MBRYONICS, based in Dangan, has been nominated for Elevation Company of the Year. Platform94, based in Mervuie Business Park, is in the running for Brand of the Year.

Both companies have been recognised for their outstanding innovation and impact within their respective sectors, showcasing the strength and creativity of Galway’s business community on a national stage.

This year’s gala evening will welcome over 1,000 global business, political and social leaders to celebrate outstanding achievement, leadership, and innovation across Irish and international business.

Now entering its 51st year, the Business & Finance Awards Programme remains Ireland’s most prestigious business recognition platform, honouring exceptional companies and individuals whose impact drives progress, shapes industries, and inspires the next generation of leaders.

The 2025 shortlist showcases the very best in Irish enterprise — from dynamic SMEs to multinational trailblazers — highlighting how Irish business continues to set new global benchmarks for performance, innovation, and resilience.

Ian Hyland, President and Publisher, Business & Finance, said, “It is inspiring to see such a strong and diverse shortlist for the 2025 Business & Finance Awards — a testament to the extraordinary calibre of leadership across Ireland’s business landscape.”

“This year marks another important milestone for the awards as we honour Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton with the Sutherland Leadership Award, alongside our outstanding shortlisted companies and leaders who continue to shape Ireland’s future on the world stage.”

This year’s awards received almost 30% (29.5%) increase in submissions, the highest number in over a decade.

Notably, the Innovation of the Year category, introduced only last year, has seen the largest number of entries this year across all categories, underlining Ireland’s thriving culture of creativity and technological advancement.

Among the most eagerly anticipated categories is Business Person of the Year, celebrating Ireland’s leading entrepreneurs and executives who are driving business excellence, innovation and growth both nationally and internationally.

The Company of the Year award will recognise an outstanding Irish or international business demonstrating sustained success, innovation and impact — one of the most coveted accolades in the Irish business calendar.

Ryan McCarthy, Managing Partner, KPMG, said, “The Business & Finance Awards continue to celebrate the excellence and innovation that make Ireland such a powerful force in global business.”

“The significant growth in entries this year reflects the ambition, creative spirit and resilience that define our business community.”

“At KPMG, we are proud to support these awards and to celebrate the leaders and organisations who are not just adapting to change but driving it with courage and vision.”

The 2025 Business & Finance Awards will take place on Thursday, December 11, at the Convention Centre Dublin

Heavy rain will hit Galway today with the possibility of flooding as a weather warning will be in place from Thursday afternoon.

Met Éireann has issued a status yellow rain warning for Galway and Mayo, which will be in place from 12pm until 8pm today.

During the day, there will be spells of heavy rain, with Met Éireann warning of possible localised flooding, poor visibility, and difficult travelling conditions.

This is one of three weather warnings issued for the west and south of Ireland on Thursday.

A similar warning will be in place for Cork and Kerry from 11am to 8pm, and another wind warning for Cork, Kerry, Waterford, and Wexford from 11am to 11pm.

Galway householders are being urged to bring their batteries, electrical, and electronic waste to a set of free collection days to help the county meet national e-waste recycling targets for 2025.

The events, hosted by WEEE Ireland in partnership with Galway County Council, kick off on Tuesday October 28 from 10am-4pm at Tommy Larkin’s GAA Club, Woodford.

Later in the week, a collection will take place on Thursday October 30 at the Williamstown GAA Club, Corralough, Williamstown from 10am-4pm.

Anything with a plug, battery or cable can be recycled for free on the day, including old washing machines, TVs, toasters and kettles, electronic tools and toys, cables, IT equipment, mobile phones, remote controls, batteries, including farm fence batteries, and even watches.

“In Galway, and across Ireland, we are buying more electrical goods than ever – with people purchasing an average 25kg per head in 2024 compared to 16kgs just six years ago,” said WEEE Ireland CEO Leo Donovan.

“Shopping stats show a surge in spend on new electrical devices like mobile phones, computers, small kitchen appliances and white goods.

“With old items still lying around many households we want to offer the opportunity to recycle these for free.

“People in Galway have contributed greatly to e-waste recycling every year, with 2,863 tonnes of electrical waste collected in the county in 2024, and we want to encourage that trend.”

10.3kg of e-waste was recycled per person in Galway last year – exceeding the WEEE Ireland collection area average of 9.5kg per person that same year.

WEEE Ireland warns that the nation needs to meet new forthcoming EU targets to recycle at least 25% of our annual consumption of critical raw materials from e-waste.

“An average of 96% of all e-waste that we collect is recovered for use again in manufacturing through both indigenous operators and specialist processors in Europe,” said Mr. Donovan.

“Most end-of-life products contain metals and minerals in higher concentrations than primary resources.

“These stocks of resources are the urban mines of the future, so our recycling efforts can have a significant impact on the environment.”

In 2024, the equivalent of 206,521 tonnes of CO2 emissions were avoided by recycling e-waste through the WEEE Ireland Scheme as opposed to landfilling. That is the equivalent of the annual carbon consumption of 4,130 hectares of trees.

WEEE Ireland accounts for over two thirds of all national waste electrical and electronics collection activity on behalf of 1,355 producer members.

These free events are in partnership with Galway County Council.

“Recycling e-waste is incredibly beneficial for both the environment and the economy,” said Mr. Donovan.

“Together, we are diverting waste from landfill, recovering raw materials for reuse and ensuring hazardous materials are safely and responsibly disposed of.

“We look forward to working with Galway householders to hopefully recycle a record-breaking amount of electronic waste in 2025.”

Galway-based connected health start-up, FeelTect, has announced the commercial launch of its pioneering wound care device, Tight Alright, starting in Thun Hospital, Switzerland.

The commercial launch coincides with the successful close of a €1.5 million investment round involving Irrus Investments, the Western Development Commission (WDC), and a network of angel investors.

Founded in 2019, FeelTect is transforming compression therapy with Tight Alright the world’s first connected health technology for measuring and monitoring compression therapy in real time.

The innovation aims to improve clinical accuracy, enhance patient outcomes, and support remote care management for chronic wounds such as venous leg ulcers.

FeelTect’s commercial launch comes on the back of strong clinical data, as explained by Andrew Cameron, CEO and Co-Founder of FeelTect.

“Our recent clinical studies show a threefold acceleration in healing rates for venous leg ulcer patients — a breakthrough that has the potential to redefine standards of wound care.”

Darren Burke, CTO and Co-Founder, added,  “This launch marks a major milestone for FeelTect and for wound care globally. After years of rigorous testing and clinical validation, Tight Alright is now ready to empower clinicians and patients with real-time insights that will transform the model of care.”

The newly secured funding will support commercial rollout, regulatory expansion, and team growth as FeelTect scales operations from its headquarters in Spiddal.

The investment also positions the company to expand within Switzerland and pursue new markets in Europe, the United States, and Australia, where it already holds CE mark, FDA registration, and TGA certification, respectively.

Dr. Thomas Zehnder, Chief Physician and Co-Director of the Wound Centre at Thun Hospital, commented, “Compression therapy is a critical element to the successful treatment of patients with venous leg ulcers and many other indications.”

“Digital tools like FeelTect’s Tight Alright can advance our ability to control the dosage and maintenance of this gold standard treatment”.

Andrew Cameron highlighted the importance of the funding to the company’s pathway, “This investment enables us to bring Tight Alright to market and to patients who need it most.”

CEO of the Western Development Commission, Allan Mulrooney, commented, “FeelTect embodies the innovation and ambition we aim to support in the West of Ireland. Their success demonstrates how regional start-ups can make a global impact with world-class technology.”

The investment builds on early-stage support from the Western Investment Fund, which was instrumental in helping FeelTect navigate the complex regulatory and technical pathways of medical device development.

As FeelTect prepares for full commercial rollout, the company remains committed to advancing connected health technologies that deliver measurable improvements in patient outcomes while reinforcing Ireland’s reputation as a global MedTech hub.

“We’re proud to be growing our team and scaling our operations right here in Spiddal,” added Burke. “The west of Ireland has everything we need to support our journey to becoming a global MedTech leader.”

Chartered Accountants Ireland has named Donegal native and University of Galway lecturer Sophie Sweeney ACA as its 2025 Chartered Star.

Awarded annually, the accolade is given to one of the Institute’s shortlisted members who demonstrates outstanding commitment to any of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The competition, running since 2016, gives the winner the opportunity to participate in the One Young World summit as the Institute’s representative. This year’s summit will take place in Munich, Germany, from November 3 – 6.

In her submission, Sophie described herself as a “storyteller at heart.” She is a lecturer in accountancy, finance and tax at the University of Galway and actively positions the SDGs within her teaching.

Sophie believes in intertwining the SDGs into accountancy education to embed trust and sustainability as core values for future finance leaders.

As well as this, Sophie is a PhD candidate examining how people experience tax across life stages.

She advocates against inequality in social and taxation systems for the benefit of future generations and believes that education is essential to this.

Commenting on her win, Sophie Sweeney said, “I am very excited and honoured to have been selected as Chartered Star 2025. I am passionate about learning and education as a means to promote equity and progress.”

“I am really looking forward to hearing from all the contributors at the Summit, and to workshopping with the other delegates. We can learn a lot from each other.”

Acknowledging the central role Chartered Accountants play in addressing the global challenges that the UN SDGs aim to address, competition entrants were shortlisted based on written and video testimonial submissions outlining how they live the values of the SDGs through their work and other pursuits.

The summit will bring together the Chartered Star and 2,000 other young future leaders from over 190 countries for workshops and addresses from global leaders.

Plenary topics featuring on the 2025 programme include the circular economy, responsible tech, anti-hate, education and peace and security.

CAI Sustainability Advocacy Manager Susan Rossney said, “Chartered Accountants are playing an ever-increasing role in addressing the UN SDGs through their work.”

“Sophie’s work and her research interests cover several of these including education, reducing inequalities, and promoting economic growth.”

“Not only this but she actively raises awareness of the goals through her teaching, ensuring the next generation of finance professionals understand their role in meeting the goals”.

Director of Members and Advocacy, Cróna Clohisey, said, “The Chartered Star competition is a very important initiative for the Institute. It highlights the power and potential of the Chartered Accountant to contribute meaningfully to societal change.”

“Trusted business leadership is the Institute’s guiding principle, and Sophie exemplifies this. She emerged as the worthy winner from a highly impressive shortlist and will gain a lot from the Summit, bringing these learnings back to her students. I wish her the best for the Summit in November.”

The beloved Macnas Halloween parade will make its way through the streets of Galway City once again on Sunday evening.

An Treunn The Summoning Of The Lost is based on a long lost tale by Dracula author Bram Stoker and the haunting call of the corncrake.

Discovered last year in the archives of the National Library of Ireland, Stoker’s forgotten story flickers with folklore, magic and mischief.

At its heart its sonic essence is something small, strange and precious: the Corncrake – once the summertime soundtrack of Ireland, now a ghost in our fields.

This incredible new parade explores how our culture, memory and climate intertwine and asks what it means to hold on to what we’re losing.

The Macnas parade will take place at 5:30pm on Sunday evening, starting from the University of Galway and making its way through the city via the Cathedral, Salmon Weir Bridge, Eglington Street, Shop Street, Mainguard Street, O’Brien’s Bridge, Dominick Street. Ending at the Fire Station in the Claddagh.

Recommended family viewing areas are on Father Griffin Road and Eglington Street.

For those who can’t see it this evening, or just can’t get enough, An Treunn The Summoning Of The Lost, will also run again at the Dublin City Council Bram Stoker Festival on November 2 in Dublin.

The Children’s Remembrance Committee at University Hospital Galway will hold their annual Golden Enrolment Mass in memory of deceased colleagues on Saturday, November 1 at 7pm in the Chapel of all Saints, Merlin Park University Hospital.

Hospital staff together with relatives and friends will participate in the mass. The Golden Enrolment Book inscribed with names of the deceased staff will be brought to the altar and will be available after mass for viewing.

Joan Healy from the Children’s Remembrance Day Committee said, “This is a time for us to come together in remembrance of our deceased colleagues, to honour their lasting contributions, professional legacies and enduring impact.”

“We recognise the loss and anguish of those touched by their absence and we hope that knowing they are not forgotten, may bring some comfort.”

If you have a family member who worked in University Hospital Galway or Merlin Park University Hospital and would like them remembered in this mass and the Golden Enrolment Book, please contact Anne McKeown on 091 893718 or text 087 4418574.

A new documentary celebrating the healing power of creativity premiered this week at Croí House in Galway City.

This new short film about the Mending HeArts project shares the voices and experiences of patients, artists, and healthcare staff who took part in this initiative that supports people recovering from cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Through a series of art workshops held in hospitals and community settings across Galway, including Croí House, participants explored painting, printmaking, collage, and mixed media as part of their recovery journey.

The film highlights how creativity can foster confidence, resilience, and connection, both within hospital walls and back in the community.

Speaking at the screening, Mayor of Galway City, Cllr. Mike Cubbard, said, “Projects like Mending HeArts highlight the vital role creativity plays in health and wellbeing.”

“It’s inspiring to see collaboration between healthcare services, local authorities, and the arts community helping to create a more compassionate and holistic approach to recovery.”

Following the premiere, a hands-on art session took place where participants and attendees were invited to create together in a relaxed and welcoming space.

The session offered a chance for everyone to reconnect and share experiences, a fitting reflection of the project’s spirit of creativity, connection, and community.

“The Mending HeArts project aims to create a pathway of support that follows patients from hospital through to their return to the community,” said Fiona Donovan, HSE Healthy Ireland Project Manager.

“There is a real need to embed art and health initiatives like this within our healthcare system, ensuring that emotional and social wellbeing are supported alongside clinical care throughout recovery.”

The event was a moving celebration of the Mending HeArts project and everyone who has been part of it along the way, the patients who took part in the workshops, the artists who guided them, the healthcare staff who made space for creativity in hospitals, and the many partners who helped make it all happen.

It was also a moment to reflect on everything the project has achieved and to celebrate how far it has come as it reaches the end of this phase.

Funded by Creative Ireland, the Mending HeArts project is delivered in partnership by Saolta Arts, HSE West and North West, Galway City Council, Galway County Council, Croí the Heart and Stroke Charity, and Healthy Ireland.

It highlights the transformative power of the arts in healthcare and the impact of collaboration between government bodies and non-profit organisations.

Correction: This article has been updated as of 6/11/25 with fresh information from the CCPC that Archergas Model 15-60/130, the Lowara Models Ecocirc and Ecocirc+ and the current version of the BritTherm P2 25/5 circulating pumps included in the original list published by the CCPC are not affected by this safety notice, as they do not possess the electrical coupling referred to in the notice, and pose no risk to tradespeople.

The CCPC has issued a further safety warning for 14 different circulating pump brands over a potential risk of electrocution they may pose.

This warning for tradespeople follows a recent CCPC product safety information notice regarding a number of Tucson circulating pumps.

Details of that notice and the Tucson product replacement programme are available at: Product Safety Information Notice on Tucson 5m, 6m and 8m circulating pumps.

The CCPC has received reports of other circulating pumps that may have the same or similar electrical coupling as the one on the affected Tucson pumps above, and therefore, may present the same risk of electrocution.

In line with the precautionary principle and to avoid potential harm, the CCPC is carrying out this early intervention by making all traders and tradespeople aware of this potential risk.

The warning relates to the following circulating pumps:

1. AquaPro, Model: RS 25/6 EAA
2. Katsu Tools, Model: Star 25/
3. Embrass Peerless, Model: Eclipse CFA-25-50
4. THS Thermostyle, Model: THS RS25/6 EAQ
5. Trident, Model: STAR 25/6EA 
6. Boiler M8, Model: Boiler M8 RS25/6 EAZ 
7. Suntask, Model: Star A PUM-STAR15/6A
8. IBO, Models: IBO NOVA 25-40 180 and the Beta 2 
9. Avansa, Model: Avansa 32/6/180E
10. Intertrade, Model: INTERTRADE 6 metre head circulation pump (Type R S25/6EAQ)

The CCPC has contacted the companies that produce these pumps to bring the reports to their attention. Any company that becomes aware of a potential safety risk with their product is legally obligated to take immediate action.

The CCPC is advising tradespeople to exercise caution when working on heating systems that use these circulating pumps.

Consumers are advised to do nothing at this stage, while investigations are ongoing to establish if the products meet product safety requirements.

Correction: This article has been updated to correct the warning for circulating pumps, not heat pumps, as previously stated.

As the October Bank Holiday Weekend approaches, An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority are appealing to all road users to stay safe.

Bank Holiday Weekends are among the busiest periods on Irish roads. They are also among the periods where road users are at the highest risk of being involved in a fatal or serious road traffic collision.

To date this year (24th October 2025), 138 people have lost their lives in road traffic collisions on Irish roads.
With shorter daylight hours and clocks going back one hour this Sunday, An Garda Síochána reminds all road users to ‘Be Safe, Be Seen’. Drivers are encouraged to use dipped headlights during the day, particularly if their vehicle does not have Daytime Running Lights.

Pedestrians and cyclists should wear high-visibility clothing and ensure they are clearly visible in darker conditions – statistics show a rise in pedestrian injuries on Irish roads between October and December each year. Of the road fatalities so far this year, 29 were pedestrians.

Data recorded over the period 2020-2024 shows that 1,462 pedestrians were seriously injured following a road traffic collision.

More than one-third (34%) of these serious injuries occurred between October and December. And the data shows that 21% of pedestrians in these incidents failed to observe properly.

Other data over that period found:

• A 64% increase in the number of serious injuries among pedestrians between 2021 and 2022.
• Four in ten of all serious pedestrian injuries took place in Dublin
• Types of injuries sustained by pedestrians were predominantly head and lower limb injuries with an average length of stay of 11 days in hospital.
• Hospital data shows that 1,384 pedestrians were admitted to hospital between 2020 and 2024 following a road traffic collision. Of all those hospitalised, 418 (30%) sustained clinically serious injuries, often with long-term impacts. Two-thirds were male and one-third were aged 65 or older.

An Garda Síochána is conducting a dedicated road traffic enforcement operation throughout the October Bank Holiday weekend, which will continue until 7:00am on Tuesday, October 28.

Every member of An Garda Síochána on duty will be out conducting road traffic enforcement activity.

The focus will be on detecting and deterring key risk behaviours such as speeding, impaired driving, mobile phone use, and non-wearing of seat belts.

Minister of State with responsibility for Road Safety Seán Canney said, “As the clocks go back and winter approaches, I urge all road users to make safety the focus of their journeys.”

“No matter how we travel, we need to protect ourselves and each other. Light up your vehicle; wear high visibility clothing; adjust your speed for the road and weather conditions; and never drive distracted or intoxicated.”

“Emergency services are ready to help – but let’s do our best to avoid needing them.”

Assistant Commissioner for Roads Policing and Community Engagement, Catharina Gunne, said, “An Garda Síochána is appealing to all road users to take extra care this long Halloween weekend.”

“Bank Holidays are particularly busy times on our roads. Road users need to be particularly mindful at this time of year because road conditions are wetter and this weekend, clocks go back, so the evenings are darker and longer.”

“Therefore, there is a greater risk for our vulnerable road users; pedestrians and cyclists. Please Be Safe, Be Seen.

“For motorists, we appeal to you to never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, to slow down and to always choose a speed that is appropriate for the driving conditions, to wear your seatbelt and remove any distractions while driving, such as mobile phones.”

“We must continue to raise awareness among all road users about road safety, work together with road users and our partners, to prevent a further rise in road fatalities and serious injury road traffic collisions.”

Galway County Council has launched a completely redesigned bilingual website aimed at delivering faster, clearer, and more accessible information to residents, businesses, and visitors.

The new site, available at Gaillimh.ie and Galway.ie, was developed by award-winning Irish web services company Annertech.

It now offers 100 per cent Irish-language content, improved translation management, and the ability to deliver dynamic updates, including rich media, event announcements, and severe weather alerts.

Core services, including Planning, Housing, Environment, Libraries, Climate Action, Community, and Business and Economy, are easily accessible from the home page.

Visitors can also sign up for location-based alerts on road works, planning applications, severe weather, and community notices through the MapAlerter service.

With the majority of users accessing the site on mobile devices, page layouts automatically adjust to fit smartphones and tablets.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said, “We have incorporated the views of elected members and the public, along with best practices in local government web service delivery, when redesigning the site.”

“This ensures that the most up-to-date information about our services is presented in a modern, user-friendly interface with improved navigation and accessibility features.”

Katie O’Connor, Director of Finance, Motor Tax, ICT and Digital Transformation, described the launch as “a major step forward in making our services clearer, faster, and more accessible.”

She added, “The upgraded bilingual site ensures reliable access to council information and services at all times. It follows the Local Government Service Catalogue, presenting information around what people need.”

Michael Martyn, Head of Information Systems, commented, “By rewriting all content in plain English and Gaeilge, building on an open-source platform, and making Irish-language content a core feature, we are making it easier for people to find what they need, when they need it.”

“This is about putting the user first, whether they are a resident, a business, or a visitor to Galway County.”

The site is built on Local Government Drupal, an open-source platform shared by councils in Ireland and the UK, with sharing of additional development and features on a build-once, share-many basis.

Visit www.Gaillimh.ie and www.Galway.ie.

The Small Crane has long been a place where Galway gathers. From trading potatoes centuries ago to meeting friends and neighbours for news of the week, and sharing tunes outside The Crane Bar, it has always been about people, stories, and connection.

Over time, however, the stone floor and the crane itself had fallen into disrepair. During the pandemic, the square once again became a hub for the local community, but it was clear it needed attention to remain a safe and welcoming space.

Thanks to funding from the Cairde Grant Scheme, the Galway Westend Traders Association led a complete regeneration of the square, bringing together local craftspeople and engineers to restore it to its former charm.

The project was pioneered and managed from start to finish by Lisa Regan, who first brought the idea to the Westend Traders Association, applied for the grant, and ensured that all craftspeople and tradespeople involved were local, aligned with the vision, and compliant with Galway City Council regulations.

Local stonemason Martin Crosbie, alongside Paul Murphy and his team, reinstated the traditional sea beach stone flooring, balancing authenticity with modern safety standards.

The crane, complete with weights and scales, was reinstalled by Des Leahy Engineering, once again serving as the square’s social centrepiece. Surrounding walls were cleaned and capped, and pollinator-friendly plants were added, weaving nature back into the space.

“The response has been incredible,” said Lisa Regan. “People are genuinely happy to see The Small Crane restored. This project shows what’s possible when careful planning, skilled crafts people ship, and a shared vision come together.”

“Galway needs more of this. We already have these spaces in the city; they just need to be restored and reimagined for modern-day urban living.”

“The success of this project further strengthens the case for the Small Crane area to be pedestrianised, as trialled here since 2019.”

“This square naturally lends itself to being car- and traffic-free, supporting people on foot and anyone with mobility concerns. It means safer streets and more people spending time together.”

This transformation was made possible through the collaboration of Galway’s Westend Traders Association, Lisa Regan, Martin Crosbie, Paul Murphy and his team, Benny Derrane, Frank Naughton, Des Leahy Engineering, Dilis and Laura of Dr Claire Apothecary on Sea Road, Ramberg Painters, and Galway City Council Conservation Officer Michael Scott.

For more information, visit galwayswestend.ie

Researchers at the University of Galway have revealed the results of a world-first study into how bowel cancer shuts down the immune system, and how this can be reversed to improve treatment.

The findings have been published in the Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer (JITC).

The research team showed how structural stromal cells switch off the immune system and how the body’s own killer cells can be switched back on, opening up the opportunity for a completely new approach to optimising immunotherapy for patients.

Colorectal cancer – commonly referred to as bowel cancer – is one of the world’s most common cancers and the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide.

Diagnoses in people under 50 have been climbing in recent decades, with recent global analysis showing these early-onset cases have almost doubled since 1990. In Ireland, the disease affects more than 2,500 people a year.

Professor Aideen Ryan, Professor in Tumour Immunology at University of Galway, said, “While immunotherapy has revolutionised care in cancers such as melanoma and lung cancer, it has shown very limited benefit in bowel cancer, leaving patients with advanced disease with few treatment options and poor survival outcomes.”

The breakthrough research discovery is the first to demonstrate that tumour stromal cells – the structural cells that support cancer growth – are directly reprogramming the immune system.

They do this by switching off, or hijacking, two of our body’s most important tumour-fighting cells – the natural killers (NK) and macrophages – rendering them unable to attack the cancer.

Professor Ryan said, “The interaction between the cancer, our body’s healthy cells and our defence mechanism is a complex one, but our research shows that the cancer is essentially creating an immune brake – it is blocking the body’s natural response and fight mechanism.”

Tumour stromal cells are the structural cells which allow the cancer to grow. They are coated in sugars called sialoglycans. These interact with receptors on the body’s immune cells called Siglecs.

This interaction causes the body’s natural defence response to be switched off and unresponsive when immunotherapy is used, and therefore unable to attack the cancer.

The research identified a specific enzyme that drives this process of ‘switching off’, as it produces the Siglec-binding sugars on stromal cells.

When the researchers blocked this pathway using drugs called sialidases, they could show that the body’s most important tumour-fighting cells – the natural killers (NK) and macrophages – reactivated. It showed that the tumours shrank and the spread of cancer, known as metastasis, was prevented.

The multidisciplinary research was conducted in collaboration with colorectal surgeons and pathologists at Galway University Hospital, led by Professor Aisling Hogan and Professor Sean Hynes.

It also involved experts in colorectal cancer – Dr Philip Dunne, Queen’s University Belfast and experts in targeting sialoglycans at Palleon Pharmaceuticals, MA, USA, who have developed sialidase drugs that disrupt the sialoglycan-Siglec interaction.

Professor Ryan added, “Our research is a clear breakthrough in our understanding of bowel cancer and how immunotherapy could be more successful.”

“This world-first finding shows that some of the bowel cancer cells are not just passive bystanders, they are actively reprogramming the body’s immune cells, preventing them from doing their job.”

“We have uncovered an entirely new checkpoint, and by focusing on it, we can reactivate the immune system and improve our body’s innate ability to fight the disease, and even target metastasis.”

Michael O’Dwyer, Professor of Medicine and Scientific Director of University of Galway Cancer Centre, said, “The work of Professor Ryan and her research team highlights an important interplay between cells within a tumour, facilitating disease progression and metastasis.”

“This is an excellent example of impactful, innovative research with strong industry engagement currently being undertaken within the University of Galway Cancer Centre.”

Jim Broderick, M.D., Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Palleon Pharmaceuticals, said, “The sialoglycan-Siglec axis of immunosuppression in cancer was underappreciated until very recently.”

“Targeting sialoglycan biology offers great potential for developing new therapies for diseases characterized by immune dysfunction, including cancer and autoimmunity.”

“The discoveries from Professor Ryan’s lab bring new hope to patients battling colorectal cancer and other malignancies that have proven resistant to existing immunotherapies.”

Professor Ryan’s pioneering cancer research is featured in the Breakthrough Cancer Research exhibition, Cancer Revolution: Science, Innovation and Hope, which is on display in Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre until Friday, October 31.

It includes striking microscopy images of stromal cells interacting with tumours and a 3D tumour model, helping to visualise how these cells shut down the immune system in bowel cancer.

The display explains how Professor Ryan’s team discovered that stromal cells act as an “immune brake” and how targeting this brake could finally allow immunotherapy to work for patients with colorectal cancer.

Ireland’s chief maritime safety bodies, the Coast Guard, the RNLI, and Water Safety Ireland, are urging people to stay safe on the water this Bank Holiday weekend.

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, water activities continue throughout the year, bringing increased risks.

It’s crucial to understand how your body reacts to cold water and to stay alert to hazards such as cold-water shock, rip currents, and hidden depths caused by localised flooding.

Always carry a reliable way to communicate, check weather and tide updates, and let someone know your plans before heading out.

Open water swimming safety guidelines:

• Plan ahead: Review weather forecasts, tide schedules, and wave conditions. Pack warm clothing and a hot drink for after your swim. Keep a mobile phone in a waterproof case
• Don’t swim alone: Always swim with a companion and inform someone of your intended route and return time
• Ease in gradually: Enter the water slowly to help your body adjust and reduce the risk of cold-water shock.
• Make yourself visible: Wear a brightly coloured swim cap and consider using a tow float for added visibility
• Know your limits: Stay within a depth you’re comfortable with and swim parallel to the shore
• Rip current awareness: If caught in a rip current, stay calm. Swim parallel to the shore to escape or float to conserve energy
• Keep someone informed: Share your swimming plan, location, and expected return time with someone on land
• Remember, if you find yourself in difficulty in the water, Float to Live.

If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or think that they are in trouble, use Marine VHF Ch 16 or dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.

The weather in Galway is expected to be mostly dry this weekend, with highest temperatures of 11 – 13 degrees and moderate winds.