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Water infrastructure works on east side of Galway City commencing soon

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news Moycullen water outage

A number of water infrastructure projects are due to commence in the coming weeks to support the continued growth of Galway City and estates planned for the east side of the city.

Works are due to begin in the coming weeks on the installation of new water mains at the Ballyloughane Road. These new mains will stretch from the Old Dublin Road to the Galway-Dublin railway line, a distance of 680 metres. The works will be carried out on behalf of Uisce Éireann by Ward and Burke.

Once these works are complete, another project will commence on the Doughiska Road. Here, approximately 800 metres of new mains will be laid along the Doughiska Road, from the junction with the Monivea Road to the turn-off for Fearann Rí estate.

These new mains are being installed to support future housing developments planned for the Murrough and Ardaun areas of Galway city, which is one of five cities, and the only one in the north-west region, identified as priority locations for investment and set to benefit from the Government’s additional €2 billion funding programme announced as part of the National Development Plan.

Minister for Housing James Browne said, “This programme of Accelerated Growth will provide a significant boost to the capacity of the water network to the east of Galway city, laying the groundwork for new residential developments in the near future.”

“As a Government, we are dedicated to strengthening the water and wastewater services necessary to build new homes, at scale, in the places they are most needed,” said Minister Browne.

In addition, an upgrade of the Ballybane Pumping Station is set to get underway, further strengthening the water network that serves the city. These works will be carried out on behalf of Uisce Éireann by Coffeys Construction Limited.

Michael McManus, Uisce Éireann Programme Manager, added, “We’re all aware of the urgent need for new homes to be built in major urban centres like Galway city. With these new projects about to break ground, Uisce Éireann is demonstrating its commitment to customers and communities by delivering the vital infrastructure needed to support new residential development.”

These works will require traffic management measures, with Stop & Go system in place for daytime works. However, where work is planned at busy locations such as the junction of the Old Dublin Road with the Ballyloughane Road, works will be carried out at night to limit disruption.

What is a free-spins offer actually worth long term?

By
Thomas O'Brien
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0

A Quick Pick bought on the day of the draw at the Daybreak service station in Swangate, Athenry, matched five numbers and the Bonus on Saturday 19 September and returned a prize of €88,740. What makes that figure unusual has nothing to do with luck. It is the whole number. No condition sits underneath it waiting to reduce it, and the winner does not have to earn it a second time before it can be spent.

A free-spins headline is built the other way round. It is worth less than the number printed on it, and over a long enough run it is usually worth nothing at all. That is not an accusation against any operator. It is what the attached conditions do, and enough of the arithmetic is public to work through at a kitchen table.

The figures used here come from one Irish brand’s own 24casino free spins code page and its terms, both read on 21 September 2026. The promotion advertises 24 spins on what its own table calls “Selected Slots”, a 40x wagering requirement applied to winnings, and no code to enter. Three lines. Everything that decides what those lines are worth sits somewhere else, or nowhere.

Twenty-four is a count, not an amount

The advertised figure counts events, not money. What the spins are worth depends on the stake attached to each one, and that stake appears nowhere on the offer page. Ten cent a spin, used here only to make the arithmetic visible, puts €2.40 of notional stake into play. A different denomination moves every figure below in proportion and changes none of the conclusions.

The site’s own question-and-answer block names the game: Zeus vs Hades: Gods of War. Its maker publishes what the offer page does not. Pragmatic Play’s page for the slot gives an RTP of 96.07% and a 15,000x maximum win, with two modes, Olympus and Hades, that carry different volatility.

That 96.07% is the figure readers misread most often. It describes an average settled over millions of spins across everyone who has ever loaded the game, and a 15,000x ceiling parks a slice of that average in outcomes almost nobody will see. Strip those out and the typical result sits well below the average. Twenty-four spins is not a long run. It is a rounding error inside one.

So the honest expectation on the spins alone, before a single condition applies, is roughly €2.31 back from €2.40 of stake. That is the best case, and the conditions start here.

Forty times is where the arithmetic turns

Wagering requirements are usually explained as a delay. They are not. They are a cost, and the cost has a fixed size.

A 40x requirement applied to winnings means a balance of €2.31 has to be staked, and restaked out of whatever comes back, until turnover reaches about €92. Every pass through the game hands back 96.07% and keeps 3.93%. Run €92 of turnover through a 3.93% edge and the expected loss is about €3.63, against a balance of €2.31 that has to absorb it.

The ratio matters more than the euro amounts, because it never changes. Forty passes at 3.93% is 157%. Whatever the bonus is worth, clearing it costs about one and a half times that amount in expectation. A requirement set at 40x does not make the balance hard to withdraw. It makes the balance smaller than the toll charged to move it.

This is why scaling the offer up changes nothing. The same page advertises 350 spins on the same 40x terms under the code 24PACK2, and a weekly offer of up to 50 spins at the same multiple. At ten cent a spin the 350-spin version starts from about €33.62 and needs roughly €1,345 of turnover to clear, carrying about €52.85 of expected loss. Fourteen times the spins, fourteen times the turnover, the same 157%.

The floor most coverage forgets to mention

Almost every guide to no-deposit offers stops at the wagering requirement, treats it as the obstacle, and moves on. On a small no-deposit balance it usually isn’t the binding one. The binding one is buried in the withdrawal clause.

Clause 11.1 of the same terms sets a minimum withdrawal of €40 in fiat currency, or the crypto equivalent of €20. A balance of €2.31 therefore has to grow roughly seventeenfold before it is even eligible to leave the account, and it has to do that while paying the toll described above on every stake along the way. Clearing 40x is not the finish line. It is the point at which a second, larger threshold starts to apply.

 

What the offer or terms say Where it is stated Effect on a 24-spin illustration
24 spins on “Selected Slots” The offer table The only figure the promotion advertises
Value per spin Not published anywhere At ten cent, €2.40 of notional stake
RTP of 96.07% Pragmatic Play, not the casino €2.40 of stake returns about €2.31 long run
40x wagering on winnings The offer table That balance must be turned over to about €92
Cost of that turnover Not published About €3.63 of expected loss against €2.31
Minimum withdrawal €40 Terms, clause 11.1 The balance must grow about seventeenfold
Maximum stake while wagering Not published as a figure Clause 9.4 penalises exceeding an unnamed limit
Bonus expiry window Not published Clause 9.4 assumes one exists without dating it
Game weighting schedule Absent from the terms No contribution percentages appear at all
Maximum conversion cap Not published The game’s 15,000x ceiling has no stated answer

 

Nothing in that table forecasts anything, and none of it is advice about how or whether to stake. It is one illustration built from figures the offer page, the terms and the game’s maker put in public. Six of its ten rows say the same thing: the number that would settle the question is not there.

A rulebook that points at a document nobody can open

Clause 1.6 of the terms binds every player to the site’s other published policies, “including but not limited to the Privacy Policy, Bonus Policy, and Responsible Gaming Policy”. The Privacy Policy is in the footer. The Bonus Policy is not. The obvious address for it, 24casino.ie/bonus-policy/, returned a 404 when I checked it on 21 September 2026, and no link to it appears on the terms page or in the footer menu.

That gap would be a footnote if the bonus terms were complete elsewhere. They are not, and the terms give away that they are not. The promotions clause, 9.4, voids a bonus for “Placing maximum allowable bets on high-variance games solely to inflate wagering requirements”, which requires a maximum allowable bet that is never stated. Two lines further down it voids a bonus for “Delaying play until wagering requirements expire”, which requires an expiry date that is never given either.

There is a section headed Expiry Period in those terms. It has nothing to do with bonuses. Clause 13 sets a one-year limit on bringing a claim against the casino, which is a litigation deadline wearing the heading a player searching for the spin expiry would land on first.

Game weighting is missing outright. On most slot promotions a contribution schedule decides whether a euro staked on roulette counts as a euro, as ten cent or as nothing at all towards the requirement, and it is the difference between clearing 40x and never clearing it. No such schedule appears in these terms. The eligible-games column says “Selected Slots” for two offers and “Various” for the third, and the player is left to find out which by opening the account.

Ireland’s statutory regulator, created by the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, was still building out its licensing regime through 2026, which leaves a terms page doing work a published rulebook might otherwise do. One distinction is worth holding on to while that stays true. The list of countries an operator refuses to serve, running here from the United Kingdom and the United States to Malta, Poland and the Netherlands, is a company’s own commercial decision. It is not a map of where online gambling is lawful.

Who actually pays for twenty-four free spins

Nobody gives away money at a loss, and this offer does not require anyone to. Once 40x and a €40 withdrawal floor sit on top of a €2.31 balance, the cash the casino expects to hand over is close to nothing. The spins are not the product being sold. The registration is.

The offer asks for a good deal before a reel turns: an email registration, a login, a verified account, and activation from the bonus section. Clause 9.5 sets out what verification can mean: government photo ID, proof of address, proof of payment method, and a video call holding the ID if the documents arrive in the wrong script. A completed file like that is an acquired customer, and it is worth considerably more than €2.40.

The recovery is written into the same document. Clause 10.4 puts the minimum deposit at €20, and clause 9.7 states that “Any deposit must be wagered three (3) times the deposited amount before you may withdraw those funds”. Clause 9.4 voids a bonus for “Maintaining a deposits-to-bonus ratio exceeding 50%”, a test that exists only because the promotion is priced against what a player is expected to put in. Leave a small balance behind and clause 12.1 charges €20 a month against it after twelve months of inactivity, until it reaches zero.

What the offer is genuinely good for

A no-deposit promotion has one honest use. It lets somebody see a game running, at the operator’s expense rather than their own, and decide whether they want anything to do with it. As entertainment that is worth something. As a plan it is worth nothing, and the maths above is why.

The edge is a property of the game, not of the promotion, which is the part most offers are designed to obscure. It applies identically to a deposit, to a bonus balance and to the twenty-fourth free spin, and the longer play continues the more dependably it shows up. That is the answer to the question in the headline. Time makes the offer worth less, never more.

My position, for what it is worth: chasing a better multiple is the wrong response. An offer that does not print the spin value, the weighting, the stake ceiling, the conversion cap or the expiry cannot be priced by the person accepting it, and an offer nobody can price is not one to spend an evening on. Read the gaps rather than the headline.

Gambling is for adults only, 18 and over, and it stays entertainment only while the money in it was money you were content to lose. If that stops being true, GamblingCare.ie offers free, confidential help and support on freephone 1800 936 725, with lines open 24 hours per day, 365 days of the year, and Extern Problem Gambling runs counselling and a call-back service at problemgambling.ie. Neither waits for a crisis.

The Athenry ticket cost a couple of euro and paid a stated amount that arrived as a stated amount. Twenty-four spins cost nothing and attach a condition to every cent they might produce. Only one of those two is a way to make money, and it isn’t either of them. The difference is that one of them tells you the price on the front.

How Tourism in Ireland Has Changed in Recent Years

By
Thomas O'Brien
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0

Ireland’s tourism story no longer fits the simple “recovery” label. The Central Statistics Office recorded just over 6.4 million foreign overnight visitors in 2025, 3% fewer than in 2024, while their spending excluding fares fell 9% to €5.5 billion. Then momentum returned: from January through July 2026, foreign overnight visits reached 3.9 million, 13% above the same period in 2025 and 0.4% above 2024. The pattern is less about chasing a record headcount than about who comes, how much they spend, and whether destinations can turn a summer visit into a longer, higher-value trip.

The Recovery Has Stopped Moving in a Straight Line

July 2026 captures the change. Ireland recorded 676,300 foreign overnight visitors, up 5% year over year, while spending excluding fares rose 9% to €681 million; average stay length slipped from 7.9 nights to 7.6. Visitor numbers and visitor value are therefore moving at different speeds. For hotels, attractions and restaurants, a modest rise in arrivals can still support stronger revenue when spend per trip increases.

North America Is Punching Above Its Headcount

North Americans accounted for 30% of foreign visitors in July 2026 but €300 million, or 44%, of visitor spending for the month. Great Britain and Continental Europe each supplied 32% of visitors, yet neither matched the North American spend. Galway sits squarely inside that value-over-volume shift: Fáilte Ireland estimates that 1.0 million overseas tourists visited the county in 2024, generating €687 million and staying an average of 5.1 nights. Three in four overseas holidaymakers visiting Galway that year were first-time visitors to Ireland.

Race Week Shows Why Events Matter More

Galway increasingly shows how a destination can build travel around a specific event rather than a generic summer break. The 2026 Galway Races Summer Festival ran from July 27 to August 2 at Ballybrit, and organizers projected attendance of more than 130,000 before the meeting; the previous year’s official crowd was just under 126,000. For adults following the card during a city break, MelBet can sit alongside official racecards, going reports and form data when comparing win, place or live racing markets, with a fixed stake keeping the betting spend defined in advance. The event also concentrates demand into hotels, restaurants, taxis and nightlife across one seven-day period.

Irish Residents Are Looking Abroad More Often

Domestic travel has shifted in the opposite direction. Irish residents took 15.3 million overnight trips within Ireland in 2025, down 8% from 2024, while overnight trips outside the country rose 11% to 15.1 million; holidays accounted for 60% of those outbound journeys. Fáilte Ireland still describes domestic spending as resilient and estimates that spending by Irish residents is 65% above 2019 levels, so fewer trips do not automatically mean a collapse in value. Hotels averaged 78.4% room occupancy in 2025, but the RevPAR gap between high and low season exceeded €100 per room.

The Phone Has Become Part of the Itinerary

Galway’s tourism strategy is increasingly designed for visitors who move between neighborhoods rather than stay around one landmark. The five-year city plan launched in October 2025 calls for stronger links between the Latin Quarter, Salthill and other areas, while the €19.3 million Galway City Museum redevelopment is projected to attract an additional 820,000 visitors over ten years. The same mobile habits extend into downtime, where someone using the MelBet apk can follow football or racing markets after an attraction closes without reorganizing an evening around a television. Phones now carry tickets, maps, restaurant bookings, transport updates and entertainment in the same pocket.

Policy Is Counting Value, Seasonality and Jobs

Ireland’s National Tourism Policy Statement, launched on December 1, 2025, makes the new priorities unusually explicit: higher visitor spend, stronger off-peak travel from October to May, regional growth and greater digital adoption by tourism businesses. The government’s target is for 90% of tourism SMEs to adopt more advanced digital systems. That national push is relevant to Galway, where Fáilte Ireland recorded 229,400 tourism jobs in 2025 and nearly 70% were based outside Dublin. Fáilte Ireland has committed €12.6 million to the museum project, while the city is also considering a year-round indoor food market and Urban Gaeltacht weekends. The aim is not simply to bring in another August crowd. It is to give people a reason to visit, stay longer, spend locally, and return in November.

New exhibition explores landscape, memory and myth in Galway

By
Briain Kelly
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0

folús, a new group exhibition curated by Irish artists Lilymay Healy and Tara Dowling, opens at Satellite Projects & Studios in Galway’s Westend on 16 September 2026.

Bringing together artists and writers working across Ireland and London, folús explores landscape as a site of memory, mythology and possibility. The exhibition considers what remains when histories disappear from view, and how traces of the past can generate new stories, fictions and imagined futures.

The exhibition features work by Lilymay Healy, Oli James, Kitty Chesher, Natasha Botelho Cook, Kate Butler, Ciara King, Ciara CH, Jack Ó Meara, Aoife Ní Dhuinn, Tara Dowling and Blaise Gilburd.

For Healy and Dowling, both Irish artists based in London, folús is an opportunity to reconnect with Ireland’s artistic community while bringing the work of London-based practitioners to Galway. The exhibition creates a meeting point between artists working across both contexts, with a particular focus on emerging practices and research-led approaches to place, history and cultural memory.

The exhibition programme includes an opening night, an artist talk and exhibition tour, and an evening of readings as part of Culture Night on Friday 18 September.

Taking place at the newly opened Satellite Projects & Studios, folús adds to Galway’s growing visual arts scene, bringing together a diverse group of artists and writers for an exhibition centred on the histories, mythologies and possible futures embedded in landscape.

folús
Satellite Projects & Studios
Father Griffin Place, Galway, H91 Y628

Opening night: Wednesday 16 September, 6pm to 8pm
Thursday 17 September: 10am to 6pm
Friday 18 September: 6pm to midnight, Culture Night
Saturday 19 September: 10am to 6pm

Ballinasloe to host over 200 delegates from around the country for National Hub Summit

By
Briain Kelly
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0
Teresa Hooks, Head of Connected Hubs and Digital Innovation_ Lyn Donnelly, Hub Manager, Ballinasloe Enterprise Centre and Allan Mulrooney, CEO, Western Development Commission

Over 200 delegates will gather at the Shearwater Hotel in Ballinasloe next month for the National Hub Summit. This year’s Summit marks four years since it first began, alongside the fifth anniversary of Connected Hubs itself.

This invite only event will include International and Irish speakers, hub teams, representative bodies, state agencies and government departments. Discussions will centre on the development of the National Hub Network, the future of work, knowledge sharing, networking and developing best practice.

An onsite Showcase Hub is among the additions planned for this year’s event as well as an innovative Silent Stage, where delegates can opt to tune into additional talks facilitated by partners, exhibitors and hub experts.

Allan Mulrooney, CEO of the Western Development Commission, said, “Connected Hubs began as a WDC pilot programme in the Western Region. Five years on, it is a national network, and the Summit is the one day of the year when hub managers from every county sit in the same room to compare notes, share what is working and raise what is on their minds.”

“The world of work has changed significantly over those five years and hubs have an increasingly important role in supporting our towns and communities, giving people more choice about where they live and work and helping to sustain jobs locally.”

“The Summit brings that national network together, but more importantly, it should be a catalyst for what happens next, with new ideas, connections and actions that can make a difference in communities over the following 12 months.”

The National Hub Network is a Government of Ireland initiative under the Our Rural Future policy which is aimed at establishing and strategically expanding a network of interconnected Hubs throughout the country.

Its aim is to harness the full potential of Hubs to make a significant contribution to the revitalisation of Ireland’s towns and villages.

Connected Hubs, is a central driver of the network giving workers and entrepreneurs more freedom to choose where they work and live, creating a positive impact on personal and family lives, reinvigorating communities, promoting economic growth, and fostering opportunities for sustainable development.

Lyn Donnelly, Manager of Ballinasloe Enterprise Centre, said, “The Summit is a valuable opportunity for hub managers to connect, share experiences and learn from one another. Every hub is different, but many of the challenges and opportunities are shared, and there is huge value in being able to exchange ideas and practical solutions.”

“The relationships built at the Summit help to strengthen the wider hub network and it gives us an opportunity to connect and support each other throughout the year.”

The Connected Hubs programme is run by the Western Development Commission on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

€19 million Galway City Museum redevelopment commences

By
Briain Kelly
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0

Work has now begun on the €19 million redevelopment of Galway City Museum, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of the city’s most important cultural and tourism infrastructure projects.

The project is supported by Fáilte Ireland, which is contributing €12.6 million towards the overall €19 million redevelopment, in partnership with Galway City Council.

The redevelopment will deliver a new three-storey extension, enhanced exhibition and education spaces, improved accessibility, upgraded structural and drainage systems, and a new Spanish Arch viewing point overlooking one of Galway’s most iconic heritage locations.

The project represents a major investment in Galway’s cultural future and will strengthen the city’s position as a leading destination for heritage, learning, and tourism.

Carey Building Contractors have been appointed to deliver the works, with construction activity now beginning on site. Galway City Council’s Project Development Team will oversee project governance, communications, and stakeholder engagement throughout the construction period.

Speaking today, the Chief Executive of Galway City Council, Leonard Cleary, said, “This redevelopment is a transformative investment in Galway’s cultural infrastructure.”

“The expanded Museum will offer new opportunities for learning, interpretation, and community engagement, while also enhancing the visitor experience and supporting the wider tourism economy.”

Construction will be managed to minimise disruption to local businesses, residents, and visitors. Regular updates will be issued through Galway City Council’s communication channels, including website notices, social media, and Councillor briefings.

Record eight Galway projects shortlisted for national local government awards

By
Briain Kelly
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Scoil an Phiarsaigh 2025. Photo credit: Sean Lydon

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.”

Leenane Community Park. Photo credit Galway County Council

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.

Cllr Siobhan McHugh Ryan, Cllr Karen McHugh Farag, Director of Services, Michael Owens, Corporate Services, Rural, Community & Tourism Development and Integration and Galway County Council Tuam Area Office Staff at Tuam Palace Grounds. Credit Galway County Council.at Tuam Palace Grounds. Credit Murtography.

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.

How Carabao Cup Rotation Can Mislead Betting Markets

By
Thomas O'Brien
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0
Football players making a substitution during a Carabao Cup match

The Carabao Cup third round arrives across the weeks of 7 and 14 September, bringing Premier League clubs involved in Europe into the competition. By then, early league results may appear to offer a useful form guide. Cup football is less straightforward.

Rotation, recovery and squad depth can change a tie within hours. For bettors following the third round through onexbet, recent Premier League results are only part of the picture. A club’s league position says little about whether five regular starters or a heavily changed XI will appear.

A Third Round Full of Premier League Tests

Liverpool host Tottenham, Manchester United face Brighton and Chelsea play Leeds. Arsenal travel to Ipswich, while holders Manchester City host Norwich. Aston Villa go to Coventry, Newcastle visit Millwall, Bournemouth meet Lincoln and Crystal Palace host Middlesbrough.

Teams balancing Champions League or Europa League commitments may protect first-choice players. Others with a free midweek can give minutes to a second striker, young full-back or returning player.

Round two already produced examples. Leeds beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 at the City Ground only three days after the same fixture in the league. Bradford eliminated Burnley on penalties, Brentford scored six against Birmingham and Everton won 4-0 at Preston.

Tottenham beat Charlton 5-1 despite substantial changes, while Chelsea defeated Luton 2-0. League position explained part of those results. Squad depth and selection added another layer.

Why League Form Has Limits in the Cup

Premier League form usually reflects something close to a manager’s preferred XI. The Carabao Cup can instead test the 15th, 18th or 20th player in the squad.

A club performing well might make eight changes. A struggling team could go closer to full strength if the manager wants momentum or sees a realistic route into the next round.

Travel and recovery complicate matters. A midweek trip to Millwall or Coventry after a Premier League fixture differs from a Saturday home game. Lower-league opponents may field their strongest XI while visitors manage minutes around other competitions.

There is another difference: no extra time is played before the semi-finals. A draw after 90 minutes goes directly to penalties, changing the closing stages of a level tie.

Rotation and the Pre-Match Betting Picture

Team news can produce significant price changes. The market an hour before kick-off may look very different from earlier in the day.

Three details are particularly relevant:

  • How many likely starters have European commitments that week?
  • Does the tie sit beside a Premier League fixture the manager may prioritise?
  • Does the stronger club retain a clear quality advantage after rotation?

A +200 underdog shortening after the favourite announces a weakened XI reflects new information rather than league form.

Rotation does not automatically remove the favourite’s advantage. Manchester City against Norwich, for example, would not become an even contest because several regulars were rested. Squad depth can preserve a substantial gap.

That can make handicaps and totals more revealing than simply backing or opposing the favourite.

Goals Markets and Team Selection

A rotated team can make a match more open, but it can also remove attacking quality.

The presence of a recognised No. 9 is one distinction. A midfield-heavy lineup facing a deep Championship defence presents a different goals profile from two Premier League sides using first-choice forwards.

Defensive rotation matters too. Young centre-backs, unfamiliar full-back combinations and reserve goalkeepers can affect total-goals and both-teams-to-score markets even when their club remains favourite.

The In-Play Betting Picture

A goalless first half can expose another difference between league and cup pricing. If a favourite controls possession without creating clear chances, its reputation may keep the live price relatively short.

The bench then matters. A favourite with first-choice attackers available for the final 30 minutes presents a different proposition from one whose strongest options already started.

At 0-0 after 70 minutes, penalties are only 20 minutes away. Substitutions, late corners and next-goal prices therefore sit in a different context from a league match.

The third round will produce results that look surprising beside the Premier League table. Starting XIs, fixture congestion and squad depth may explain why some apparent mismatches are closer than they first appear.

Boy dies after train hits car near Ballyhaunis

By
Briain Kelly
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0
Galway Daily news New timetable adds stops on Galway train services
file photo

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.

Best Online Casinos Ireland 2026 – 5 Top Sites for Irish Players

By
Thomas O'Brien
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Updated Sites for Irish Players 

Casinos Welcome Offer Ratings 
1. JACK.com 100 No-Wager Free Spins ⭐ 9.9/10
2. mBit Casino Up to 4 BTC + 325 Free Spins ⭐ 9.8/10
3. Thunderpick 100% up to €2,000 ⭐ 9.7/10
4. BetWhale 250% up to $2,500 ⭐ 9.6/10
5. BitStarz Up to 5 BTC + 180 Free Spins ⭐ 9.6/10

 

The Irish online casino scene gives players plenty of choice, but not every casino is built around the same type of player. Some put cryptocurrency at the centre of the experience, others focus heavily on live tables, while some compete through larger game collections and frequent promotions.

Our best online casinos Ireland comparison brings together five names worth trying: JACK.com, mBit Casino, Thunderpick, BetWhale and BitStarz. We looked at what each casino currently offers across games, bonuses, banking, mobile access and account security. The aim is to give Irish players a straightforward starting point for comparing these operators before deciding which, if any, fits their preferences.

Quick Comparison of the Best Online Casinos Ireland

Casinos Standout Feature Payout Speed
JACK.com Extensive game library and live casino 10-20 minutes
mBit Casino Large selection of slots and table games Within 30 minutes
Thunderpick Live dealer games and regular promotions 20-30 minutes
BetWhale Strong welcome offer and varied casino lobby Under 30 minutes
BitStarz Wide game selection and flexible banking Within 1 hour

 

These five best online casinos in Ireland offer different features for players to consider. JACK.com provides a broad mix of slots, live games and instant titles, while mBit Casino focuses on a large casino catalogue covering slots, table games and live dealer options. 

Thunderpick combines live casino gaming with regular promotions, and BetWhale places greater emphasis on its welcome package and game selection. BitStarz rounds out the list with a varied casino lobby, live gaming and multiple payment options.

What Irish Players Look For in Online Casinos?

The market for best online casinos for Irish players has evolved beyond simply finding the biggest welcome bonus. Players now tend to look at withdrawal procedures, game availability, mobile performance and payment flexibility before opening an account.

Cryptocurrency is also more prominent among international Irish Gambling Sites, particularly for users who already hold digital assets. At the same time, traditional payment options remain important for players who prefer familiar banking methods.

Another consideration is regulation. The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 establishes a framework for remote gaming licences in Ireland, while the GRAI is responsible for implementing the new licensing system.

Best Online Casinos Ireland: Detailed Reviews

Explore more about the best online casinos Ireland, from game selection and promotions to payments, mobile play and account security.

1. JACK.com: Best Online Casino Ireland Offering Extensive Game Library

JACK.com is a crypto-focused casino with a particularly large game catalogue. Its current casino lobby includes slots, live casino games, crash titles and instant games, with the operator advertising more than 8,000 games.

The live section includes roulette, blackjack and baccarat, while its casino lobby supports games from a variety of software providers. This makes JACK.com a versatile option for players who want more than traditional slots.

Promotions & Bonuses

  • 100 Wager-Free Free Spins welcome offer
  • $40,000 weekly Western Wager prize pool
  • $500 daily Fortune Run competition
  • €2M Pragmatic Play Drops & Wins pool
  • VIP Rakeback rewards based on activity
  • Exclusive rewards via Discord, X, Telegram & Instagram

JACK.com’s current operator information identifies Data Link Digital B.V. as the licence holder under a direct Curaçao Gaming Authority licence issued in May 2026.

Mobile Experience

The casino operates through a mobile-friendly website, allowing players to access its games directly through a smartphone browser.

Pros

  • Very large casino selection
  • Strong crypto focus
  • Slots, live casino and instant games
  • Mobile-friendly site

Cons

  • Crypto is central to the site
  • Availability should be checked before registration

2. mBit Casino: Best Irish Online Casino for Crypto Players

mBit Casino has built its site around cryptocurrency gaming and offers a substantial collection of casino titles. Its current promotional page advertises a welcome package worth up to 4 BTC plus 325 Free Spins across the first three deposits.

The casino includes slots, table games, jackpot titles and live dealer games. Its loyalty and promotional structure also gives regular users several ways to receive additional rewards.

mBit Casino is operated by Scores55 Tech B.V. and states that it is licensed by the Curaçao Gaming Control Board under licence OGL/2024/1307/0748.

Promotions & Bonuses

  • Up to 4 BTC + 325 Free Spins
  • Multi-deposit welcome package
  • Free-spin promotions
  • Loyalty rewards
  • Telegram promotions

Mobile Experience

The casino uses a browser-based mobile interface, giving players access to its casino catalogue without requiring a conventional app.

Pros

  • Strong cryptocurrency focus
  • Large slot and casino selection
  • Live dealer games
  • Regular promotional campaigns

Cons

  • Primarily designed around crypto payments
  • Eligibility should be confirmed before playing

3. Thunderpick: Top Online Casino in Ireland for Live Gaming

Thunderpick combines a broad casino section with a strong emphasis on live gaming. Its current casino offering includes slots, original games and live dealer content. Recent operator material also shows recurring casino tournaments and promotional events.

Its live casino partnerships include games such as roulette, blackjack and baccarat, providing a more interactive alternative to standard RNG games.

Promotions & Bonuses

  • 100% match bonus up to €2,000
  • €2M Pragmatic Play Drops & Wins pool
  • €8,000 in weekly giveaways
  • €4,000 Thunder Races prize pool every 48 hours
  • VIP-only perks and promotions
  • Referral rewards for bringing friends

The €2,000 casino welcome offer has been published by Thunderpick as a 100% first-deposit match.

Mobile Experience

Thunderpick is accessible through mobile browsers, with its casino interface designed for smaller screens.

Pros

  • Strong live casino selection
  • Regular casino tournaments
  • Wide range of crypto payment options
  • Mobile-friendly site

Cons

  • Crypto is an important part of the payment system

4. BetWhale: Best Online Casino for Large Promotions

BetWhale offers a broad selection of casino games alongside its headline promotional package. Its current casino page advertises a 250% bonus up to $2,500, while the lobby includes slots and other casino titles.

For Irish users comparing top Irish casino sites, the main point of interest is the combination of casino variety and promotional options. As with other international operators in this list, players should check the current terms, accepted jurisdictions and available payment methods before registering.

Promotions & Bonuses

  • 250% casino match up to $2,500 + 50 Free Spins
  • 200% sports bonus up to $6,000
  • Weekly reload offers
  • Spin-the-Wheel rewards
  • Casino missions and challenges
  • Prize-based tournament leaderboards
  • VIP loyalty perks

Mobile Experience

BetWhale can be accessed through mobile browsers, allowing users to play without relying on a dedicated application.

Pros

  • Large headline welcome offer
  • Variety of casino games
  • Mobile browser access
  • Regular promotions

Cons

  • Promotional conditions should be checked carefully

5. BitStarz: Best Online Casino Ireland for Payment Flexibility

BitStarz has been operating since 2014 and combines cryptocurrency gaming with a broader selection of payment options. Its current welcome promotion advertises a 300% bonus up to 5 BTC plus 180 Free Spins.

The casino offers thousands of games covering slots, jackpots, table games and live dealer titles. BitStarz also publishes its bonus conditions, including specific rules governing its free-spin promotion.

BitStarz is operated by Gareton B.V. and states that it holds Curaçao Gaming Authority licence OGL/2024/165/0185.

Promotions & Bonuses

  • 300% bonus up to 5 BTC + 180 Free Spins
  • Tesla Model Y prize giveaway
  • Telegram tournaments with leaderboard rewards
  • Weekly Slot Wars: €5,000 + 5,000 Free Spins
  • €10,000 weekly Table Wars prizes
  • Jackpotz Mania cash rewards
  • Piggyz Mania rewards up to 5x

Mobile Experience

BitStarz uses a responsive website that works across modern smartphones and tablets.

Pros

  • Crypto and traditional payment flexibility
  • Large game catalogue
  • Live dealer section
  • Frequent promotional activity

Cons

  • No conventional native casino app
  • Bonus terms should be reviewed before activation

How We Evaluated the Best Online Casinos Ireland?

Our comparison considers several practical areas:

Licensing & Availability

We check the operator’s stated licence and identify whether the relevant regulatory position is clear. Irish players should also confirm that the operator currently accepts customers from Ireland.

Casino Games

We consider the range of slots, table games, live dealer titles, jackpot games and other casino formats available.

Bonuses

Headline promotions are considered alongside the terms attached to them. A large bonus is not necessarily useful if its conditions do not suit a player’s intended style of play.

Payments

We look at the types of deposits and withdrawals supported, with particular attention to cryptocurrency and traditional payment options.

Mobile Play

A modern casino should function properly on smartphones and tablets without requiring complicated software.

Security & Account Controls

Encryption, identity verification, account controls and responsible gambling measures are also important when assessing best Ireland online casinos.

Payments at the Best Online Casinos Ireland

Payment choice is one of the most important practical factors when comparing best online casinos.

Cryptocurrency

Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Tether and other digital currencies are supported by several casinos in this list. Crypto transactions can be convenient for users already familiar with digital assets, although processing times and verification requirements can vary.

Cards & E-Wallets

Where available, cards and e-wallets provide a more conventional alternative. Availability differs by operator and country, so Irish players should check the cashier before making a deposit.

Withdrawals

Never assume that the fastest deposit method will also be the fastest withdrawal method. Verification, transaction limits and operator processing can affect the final payout time.

Are These Irish Online Gambling Sites Legal?

Ireland is developing a modern regulatory framework under the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, with the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) overseeing the new licensing system. The framework is being introduced in stages as regulation continues to develop.

The five casinos featured here are international operators with overseas licences. Irish players should simply check the latest GRAI requirements and each casino’s Ireland availability before registering. Players must also meet the legal age requirement of 18 or over.

Responsible Gambling

Real-money casino gaming carries financial risk. Anyone using best online casinos for real money should establish a spending limit before playing and avoid treating gambling as an income source.

Look for tools such as deposit limits, self-exclusion, session controls and reality checks. Players should also understand the bonus terms before accepting promotional funds.

Final Thought- Best Online Casinos Ireland

The best online casinos Ireland in this guide offer different combinations of games, promotions, payment methods and mobile features. JACK.com and mBit Casino provide broad game selections, Thunderpick focuses on live casino gaming and promotions, BetWhale highlights its welcome offer, while BitStarz combines varied games with flexible payment options.

For players comparing the best Ireland online casinos, it is worth looking beyond the headline bonus. Check game choice, payment methods, withdrawal terms and licensing information before registering. The same approach can help when exploring the best new online casinos alongside established Irish online gambling sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best online casinos Ireland?

The five casinos covered in this guide are JACK.com, mBit Casino, Thunderpick, BetWhale and BitStarz. They differ in games, bonuses, payment methods and cryptocurrency support, so Irish players should compare the individual features and current availability.

2. Which casino has the biggest welcome bonus?

mBit Casino currently advertises up to 4 BTC plus 325 Free Spins, while BitStarz advertises up to 5 BTC plus 180 Free Spins. Bonus values can change, and the applicable terms should always be checked before activation.

3. Can Irish players use cryptocurrency at online casinos?

Some international casinos accept cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum and Tether. Whether an individual Irish resident can register and play depends on the operator’s current jurisdictional restrictions and the applicable Irish regulatory position.

4. What should I check before joining an online casino?

Check the operator’s licence, Ireland availability, payment methods, withdrawal conditions, bonus rules, minimum age requirements, responsible gambling tools and customer-support options.

One week roadworks to disrupt traffic in Galway City

By
Briain Kelly
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Galway Daily news

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.

Galway Ladies Footballers to Take Centre Stage at Amgen Irish Open

By
Briain Kelly
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0

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.

An Cheathrú Rua native Cormac Ó hEadhra hosting youth-focused current affairs series

By
Briain Kelly
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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 council publish strategy to halve road deaths by 2030

By
Briain Kelly
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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 Best Place to Compare Home Insurance in Ireland

By
Angela Mc Bride
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galway daily news

More and more people in Ireland are choosing to compare home insurance policies each year in an attempt to make savings as the cost of living continues to rise.

In recent years, the cost of home insurance premiums have increased by roughly 7.5% to 9.1% annually, because of surging costs related to building, material, and labour.

That’s why choosing the best insurance provider with the most competitive rates is crucial – but with so many providers out there, finding the cheapest premium can often feel like a minefield.

Of course, it is technically possible to compare home insurance providers by manually searching the internet. But that’s needlessly time-consuming, and you are likely to miss a few providers along the way. 

So to save you from doing things the hard way, Ireland’s most trusted home insurance comparison site compareinsurance.ie provides free, impartial information which could save you hundreds per year.

The Irish website contains extensive, concise guides on home insurance (as well as all other types of insurance), explaining what each provider offers as well as comparing their pricing for two sample homes.

They make it simple to compare home insurance rates, explaining the different types of policies that are available, the differences between them, and how each company differs in what it has to offer.

Once you have reviewed this information, you can then simply enter the details of your home for free quotes from all major insurance providers, allowing you to make an informed decision based on facts and the latest rates.

Experts at Compare Insurance recommend reviewing your home insurance policy each year when the annual premium is due, instead of renewing the cover automatically.

This is because companies don’t always offer loyalty discounts, and each provider’s premiums change from time to time.

It is also important to ensure that you have not over or under insured your home, so that you have the cover you need without paying more than necessary.

The Saw Doctors raising funds for children’s hospice with Mayo gigs

By
Briain Kelly
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0

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.”

Galway towns showcase community spirit in Pride of Place bid

By
Briain Kelly
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Representatives of Tuam Women’s Shed and Galway County Council pictured with Pride of Place adjudicators Tom Dowling (sixth from right) and Peter Hynes (fourth from left) and local volunteers at The Palace Grounds. Photo credit: Jacinta Fahy.

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 24th 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.

Representatives of Portumna Tidy Towns and Galway County Council pictured with Pride of Place adjudicators Tom Dowling (second from left) and Peter Hynes (sixth from left) at Portumna Marina. Photo credit: Jacinta Fahy.

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 investigating alleged assault and false imprisonment of man

By
Briain Kelly
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0
Galway Daily news

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.

Hazardous waste disposal event being held in Galway City

By
Briain Kelly
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0
galway daily news City Council holding hazardous waste disposal event

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.

Thunderstorm warning in place for Galway today

By
Briain Kelly
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0
galway daily news Weather warning for heavy wind and rain to hit Galway

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.

 

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