Water supply returning in Galway City after repairs continue until 5am

July 3, 2026

Galway Daily news Water main replacement

Water supply is being restored this morning to homes in Galway City affected by a burst mains on the Lough Atalia Road last night.

Customers on the Lough Atalia Road, College Road, Wellpark Road and surrounding areas were hit by water outages and disruptions after a major burst pipe.

Repair crews worked into the early hours to isolate and repair the damaged main, and these repair works were completed at approximately 5am this morning.

Teresa Burke of Uisce Éireann thanked affected customers for their patience while repairs were ongoing.

“We acknowledge the inconvenience of an unplanned outage for our customers, and we wish to thank impacted residents for their understanding,” said Teresa.

“Our crews worked late into the night to repair this significant burst and restore supply, and we wish to thank the crews for their dedication also.”

Typically, it takes two to three hours following repairs for normal supply to restore to all customers affected by an unplanned outage.

However, it may take longer for normal supply to be restored to customers at the end of the network or on higher ground as the system recharges.

Exhibition explores the lived experience of Gaza

Briain Kelly

July 2, 2026

University of Galway is hosting a four-day exhibition exploring daily life in Gaza through personal testimony, photography, video, letters and children’s artwork.

The exhibition centres on the experiences of Palestinian entrepreneur, writer and public speaker Shirene Yaseen, whose family remains in Gaza.

The Lived Experience of Gaza opened Wednesday July 1, and will run until to Saturday July 4 from 9am to 6pm in An Dánlann, the University of Galway Art Gallery in the Quadrangle.

Shirene Yaseen will travel from her base in Doha, Qatar, to open the exhibition and deliver a special address in the Michael D Higgins Auditorium in the Quadrangle of the University on Friday July 3 at 10am, sharing her family’s experience of survival and displacement.

The event will be followed by a peace panel exploring what institutional protection means for human dignity and what its absence costs.

Through personal accounts and visual materials, the exhibition documents the realities of displacement, disrupted education, limited access to healthcare and the challenges facing families living amid the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.

It asks whether the silence since the ceasefire reflects the actual situation in Palestine, or whether the world has simply stopped paying attention.

This event is part of the Thinking Beyond thought leadership series hosted by the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics at University of Galway.

Admission is free and registration is available online. Funding for the project was secured through the University of Galway Sustainability Engagement Fund.

Shirene was five years old in 2000 when she first witnessed someone being killed. She has lived through more than seven wars since. Her story is not one that began in October 2023, it is the story of a lifetime.

Since the most recent conflict began, Shirene’s family have been displaced nearly 20 times. They continue to live without functioning healthcare, schools, safety, and certainty of where they will sleep. Shirene left Gaza and cannot go back, and her family cannot leave.

Shirene Yaseen said, “Gaza has become unliveable, but the world has moved on. I carry a deep helplessness because I left and they cannot. I want people to understand that this is not over. My family is fighting to survive every day, and they deserve to be seen.”

Sophie Sweeney, Lecturer at the University of Galway and organiser of the exhibition, said, “There is a world of difference between following a conflict in the news and hearing directly from someone living it.”

“When I met Shirene, I knew this story had to come to Ireland. We have a long tradition of standing with displaced communities, and this felt like something our university and city should be part of.”

Among the stories featured in the exhibition is that of Shirene’s sister, who gave birth on a staircase in the dark without medical assistance. The destruction of schools has left Shirene’s nieces and nephews without access to education, and her family no longer have a home to return to and have been forced to move repeatedly, carrying only what they can.

Since the ceasefire, Gaza has largely fallen out of the headlines. Yet many of the institutions that people depend on for healthcare, education, safety and justice remain severely damaged or non-functioning.

Organisations, businesses, community groups and individuals interested in supporting the exhibition through sponsorship, promotion, volunteering or related activities are invited to contact Sophie Sweeney at sophie.sweeney@universityofgalway.ie

New exhibition on Tuam and Ireland’s institutional past opens at Galway City Museum

Briain Kelly

July 2, 2026

A new exhibition, Survivor Stories: Tuam and Ireland’s Institutional Past has opened at Galway City Museum, the first dedicated museum installation to focus on Mother and Baby institutions and their impact on Irish society.

The exhibition provides an insight into Ireland’s treatment of single mothers and their children, focusing on the Tuam Mother and Baby institution and the legacy issues still faced by survivors today.

Highlighting Catherine Corless’s immense contribution to Irish history, the exhibition tells the stories of 18 survivors of the institution through audio and visual exhibits. An accompanying podcast series has also been created to allow for in-depth, personal engagement with survivors’ stories.

The exhibition has been created with University of Galway’s survivor-led Tuam Oral History Project, led by Dr Sarah-Anne Buckley and Dr John Cunningham, which has been gathering testimonies and other personal artefacts from institutional survivors, their families and those directly affected by this history since 2018.

Historian Catherine Corless said, “What a wonderful and vital project this is, to gather the life stories of the Tuam Home Survivors, which otherwise would be forgotten in time.”

“This Tuam Oral History Project, created in University of Galway, by a dedicated team, led by Dr Sarah-Anne Buckley, will now be exhibited in the Galway City Museum, who have graciously given space and time for all Survivors.”

Through oral histories, photographs, documents, and personal objects, visitors are invited to engage with first-hand experiences of institutional life and its lasting impact across generations.

The exhibition is the first collaboration between Galway City Museum and the University of Galway since the agreement of a new memorandum of understanding to facilitate closer collaboration between the two organisations.

President of University of Galway, Professor David Burn said, “It is fitting that Catherine Corless and survivors of the Tuam Mother and Baby institution will now have a place beside heroes of Galway in our city museum.”

“We are delighted to partner with Galway City Museum on this project as it encapsulates our shared commitment to enrich our cultural heritage by truly engaging audiences to help us all learn lessons from our dark past.”

“Belonging and Respect are two of our university’s core values where everyone should feel welcomed, supported, connected and valued as an integral part of our community.”

“This dedicated exhibition acts as a powerful reminder of the historical absence of such values and why it is so important that the wider public gets to learn about these 18 survivor life stories.”

The exhibition at Galway City Museum will comprise of photographic portraits of survivors, testimonies, audio alongside archival documents, and objects, including a detailed scale model of the Tuam Mother and Baby institution created by Catherine Corless and a very poignant lock of hair from writer and survivor J.P. Rodgers.

Acting Director of Galway City Museum, Adam Stoneman said, “We are pleased to share this important exhibition on the Tuam Mother and Baby institution, developed in close collaboration with a group of survivors through the Tuam Oral History Project. Their voices and experiences are vital to understanding this difficult history.”

“Museums can be places of reflection and healing, as well as understanding, and this exhibition marks a first step in a longer-term commitment from Galway City Museum and University of Galway to develop greater public awareness and understanding of Ireland’s institutional histories.”

The exhibition will run at Galway City Museum from July to September 2026 in the museum foyer and aims to engage Irish and international visitors. 29 US tour groups will visit Galway over the period specifically to see the exhibition and learn about Ireland’s past.

A programme of public talks, workshops and screenings will accompany the exhibition. Further information is available at: GalwayCityMuseum.ie.

Calls for legal maximum workplace temperatures before tragedy occurs

Briain Kelly

July 1, 2026

Mayor of Galway City, Helen Ogbu, has called on the Government to introduce legally defined maximum workplace temperature limits as Ireland experiences another period of exceptionally hot weather.

During the recent heat wave temperatures of 32.1 degrees were recorded at Athenry weather station, the highest reported in the country.

Mayor Ogbu said workers across Galway deserve the same legal protections from excessive heat that already exist in many European countries and warned that current health and safety laws have failed to keep pace with a changing climate.

“Staff working in offices without air conditioning, warehouses, kitchens, retail premises, factories and on construction sites can face uncomfortable and even dangerous working conditions when temperatures rise.”

“Climate change means hotter summers are becoming more common in Ireland. Our laws must reflect that reality.”

“At present, Irish legislation sets a minimum workplace temperature but provides no legal maximum. That leaves workers exposed. It is a gap in our health and safety laws that the Government can no longer ignore.”

She said that no worked should be put in a position where the heat puts their health in danger, and that we cannot wait for a tragedy to occur before acting.

Employers should also receive guidance on when to employ measures such as ventilation, access to drinking water, rest breaks or adjusted working arrangements, she added.

“Other European countries have already recognised the risks. Germany has a normal maximum workplace temperature of 26 degrees, while Spain sets a maximum of 27 degrees for many indoor workplaces.”

“The European Trade Union Confederation has also called for binding maximum workplace temperatures across Europe. Ireland should not be left behind.”

“Every worker deserves a safe workplace, regardless of the weather. We have the evidence, we know the risks and we know that temperatures are becoming more extreme. The time for action is now.”

University of Galway is No.1 in Ireland for sustainability for fifth year running

Briain Kelly

July 1, 2026

University of Galway has cemented its position as a global leader on sustainability impact, retaining its place as No.1 in Ireland and top 100 in the world for the fifth year in a row.

The Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026 rank University of Galway ahead of all the universities in Ireland for performance on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals’.

More than 1,600 institutions from 116 countries are ranked in the THE Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026. It placed the University at 68^th in the world and 12^th in Europe.

University of Galway has been Ireland’s leading university for sustainability for five years. To mark the achievement the University launched its new Sustainability Strategy 2026-2030, setting out the next phase of its sustainability ambitions, at a special meeting of the ENLIGHT European University Alliance in Galway.

Professor Becky Whay, University of Galway Deputy President and Registrar, said, “At University of Galway, sustainability is central to our purpose and identity. It shapes how we teach, learn, research, operate and engage.”

“We aim to lead the transition to a sustainable future and foster the next generation of leaders and innovators to tackle global challenges.”

“The University of Galway Sustainability Strategy 2026-2030 builds on a decade of institutional commitment and leadership, setting a renewed direction for a carbon-neutral, nature-positive and healthy university with a focus on education for sustainable development.”

“It reflects our belief that universities have both the capacity and the responsibility to lead transformative change for people and planet.”

The Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026 recognise University of Galway for particularly strongly performance on Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG12), where it is ranked 8th in the world.

Other strengths are 23rd for Partnerships for the Goals (SDG17), 48th for Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG3) and 58th for Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG6).

Dr Richard Manton, Director of Sustainability at University of Galway, said, “As we launch our third sustainability strategy, we are very proud to once again be ranked as Ireland’s top university for performance on the Sustainable Development Goals.”

“As recognised in SDG 17, partnership for the goals, we will only achieve our sustainability objectives by working closely with our partners on campus, in our city and across our region.”

“I would like to thank our 100-person Community University Sustainability Partnership for developing the new strategy and for driving our sustainability efforts for the past 11 years.”

The new Sustainability Strategy at University of Galway sets out an ambitious vision for a carbon-neutral, nature-positive and healthy campus, underpinned by a Learn-Live-Lead model, connecting education, research and operations to real-world impact.

There are 10 areas of focus in the strategy: research and innovation, teaching, learning and assessment, energy and buildings, nature and ecosystems, procurement, travel, circular economy, health and wellbeing, engagement and leadership, and governance and reporting.

Key targets and actions include:

Embedding sustainability competencies in all educational programmes at the University

Achieving Green Lab certification for all labs on campus

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030 and moving ambitiously towards carbon neutrality

Securing Gold in the NTA Smarter Travel Mark

Implementing a new biodiversity action plan for a nature positive campus

Building on the successful elimination of single-use cups, removing remaining single-use plastic catering items

Achieving Platinum rating in the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS)

Cocaine, cash, and car seized in Loughrea raids as two men arrested

Briain Kelly

June 30, 2026

Two people have been arrested in connection with raids that result in the seizure of €46,000 in drugs and cash, along with a car and a gold ring this week.

Gardaí searched two homes in the Loughrea area today as part of ongoing investigations into the drugs trade.

At the first property, Gardaí seized a car and a designer gold ring valued in the region of €4,500, along with quantities of cocaine and cannabis.

During the second search, cocaine with an estimated street value of €16,000 was seized, along with €21,550 in cash and £6,885 in sterling.

Two men, one in his 30s and the other in his late teens, were arrested and are currently being detained.

The seized substances will be sent to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) for analysis. A statement from An Garda Síochana said that investigations are ongoing.

Public view invited on CCTV to prevent illegal dumping in Galway city

Briain Kelly

June 30, 2026

Galway Daily news CCTV code of practice public consulatation

A public consultation is being held to get people’s views on using CCTV cameras to prevent illegal dumping in Galway City.

The city council is seeking public input on the implementation of CCTV for the prevention of littering and illegal dumping in the following areas:

Fána Glas, Ballybane, Galway
Sliabh Bán, Ballybane, Galway

The camers are meant to both help to prevent dumping, and to assist with the enforcement of the Litter Pollution Act, 1997, and the Waste Management Act 1996.

The council has said that the plans will adhere to the Codes of Practice for the Operation of CCTV for the Purposes of Prevention, Detection & Prosecution of Litter and Waste Offences.

Submissions or observations with respect to the proposed scheme may be made in writing to the Environment Department, Galway City Council, City Hall, College Rd, Galway, H91 X4K8.

Alternatively, you may email submissions or observations at environment@galwaycity.ie not later than July 9.

€31.75m investment has generated €10.8 billion in economic activity in the west

Briain Kelly

June 30, 2026

State investment of €31.75 million has generated generated €10.8bn in economic activity in the west of Ireland over 25 years a new report from the Western Development Commission has stated.

One of Ireland’s most significant regional investment vehicles, the Western Investment Fund, has delivered an extraordinary return on public money.

Over 25 years since it began investing in 2001, the Fund has generated €10.8 billion in economy-wide revenue, returned €635 million to the Exchequer, and cumulatively supported nearly 100,000 job-years, all on an original outlay of €31.75 million.

Today it directly supports 6,108 full-time jobs in the western region, rising to 11,535 across the wider Irish economy.

A new WDC Report on the socio-economic impact of the Western Investment Fund – independently researched by Indecon International Economic and Strategic Consultants on behalf of the Western Development Commission (WDC) – was launched recently by Minister Dara Calleary TD at the WDC Síorghlas Investment Summit.

The report shows the Western Investment Fund (WIF) has grown to a current fair value of approximately €120 million, four times the original state funding.

The WIF, which invests on fully commercial terms across counties Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon, Mayo, Galway and Clare, directly supported 6,108 full-time jobs in 2025, double the number five years previously, and rising to 11,535 when the multiplier effects across the Irish economy are included. Cumulatively, employment incomes of over €4.7 billion are supported economy-wide.

Minister Calleary said, “The Western Investment Fund has played a vital role in unlocking economic potential across the Western Region since 2001.”

“Every investment through the Fund represents jobs created, families supported, and communities made more vibrant and resilient. It demonstrates that rural Ireland can be a place not only to live, but to innovate, invest and succeed.”

Speaking at the launch, Allan Mulrooney, CEO of the Western Development Commission, said, “Balanced regional development is not a slogan. It is an economic and social imperative for this country, and the WDC Report shows what it looks like in practice.”

“The Western Investment Fund has returned €635 million to the Exchequer on an original outlay of €31.75 million. It has grown to a fair value of €120 million. It supports 11,535 jobs across the Irish economy right now. That is not a regional story. That is a national one.”

National Resilience Built on Regional Strength

The analysis highlights the contribution WIF-backed companies make to Ireland’s national economic resilience. With 89% of surveyed companies’ revenues export-derived, and €6.3 billion in exports generated, the western region’s enterprise base is internationally competitive, diversifying Ireland’s economic geography and reducing the concentration of risk in a single urban corridor.

The knowledge intensity of the WIF portfolio is particularly striking. Over 70% of employees in supported companies hold graduate qualifications, against a national average of 57%. The fund has supported €1.2 billion in research and development, leading to 2,556 patents across medtech, technology, life sciences, and the creative industries.

Search is on for citizen scientists to report honey bees

Briain Kelly

June 30, 2026

Honey bee researchers have launched a call for citizen scientists to report sightings of wild honey bee nests, beehives and foraging.

Are honey bees foraging in your garden? Do you have beehives in or around Galway city? If the answer to either of these questions is yes, or you know of where there are beehives near you, then the team would love to hear from you!

There are over 100 different bee species in Ireland with one of those being the honey bee. They are relatively smaller than other bee species and not as ‘fluffy’ as a bumblebee. People are familiar with honey bees being kept in hives by beekeepers but honey bees are a wild species too.

More importantly, native wild honey bees are now considered as endangered under the International Union for Conservation of Nature, but wild colonies are a frequent sight in Ireland where they live in cavities, in trees, roofs or walls.

Professor Grace McCormack, Galway Honey Bee Research Centre at University of Galway, said: “In Co Galway, to date, we have recorded more than 190 wild colonies, although we know there are likely to be many more.

“However, there is a large gap in our knowledge – we do not know how the native wild honey bee and other wild pollinators are affected by managed bees, which live in beehives. We don’t know because we don’t know how many beekeepers there are or where their hives are.”

University of Galway has 12 hives in Galway city and is keen to ensure that its beekeeping is sustainable, not adversely impacting wild honey bees, other beekeepers, or other bee species.

To better understand how many hives would be a sustainable number, the research team are exploring what other hives might be in the area and where its bees, and other bees, are getting their food.

The research team would love to hear from anyone who has any information on:

Honey bee apiaries, hives or nest sightings in the area
Honey bees feeding on pollinator friendly plants in your gardens or area

Professor McCormack added, “The native Irish honey bee, also known as the black bee, is uniquely adapted to Ireland’s climate. However, it is currently under threat from non-native imports, climate change, invasive species and a lack of resources such as food and nesting space.”

“This research is important as it will provide a clearer understanding of honey bee and pollinator activity in Galway, to help us develop conservation measures and sustainable management strategies for apiaries that can be applied within Galway and nationally.”

All information provided will be kept confidential.

To submit sightings and queries, please contact Pamela Madigan at P.Madigan1@universityofgalway.ie or 087 4474811 or Professor Grace McCormack at grace.mccormack@universityofgalway.ie or 086 0227227.

Two weeks of nightly works at Oranmore roundabouts

Briain Kelly

June 29, 2026

Galway Daily news Roadworks to disrupt traffic near Portumna on Tuesday

Galway County Council is carrying out roadworks at two roundabouts in the Oranmore area over the next two weeks, with some traffic disruptions expected in the evenings.

Work will begin on Monday evening on resurfacing at the Carrowmoneast roundabout, with further work to take place at the Oranbeg roundabout once this is complete.

Week 1 – Carrowmoneash Roundabout

Commencing: Monday 29th June 2026
Duration: Four consecutive nights (Monday to Thursday inclusive)
Working Hours: 7:00pm – 6:00am

Week 2 – Oranbeg Roundabout

Commencing: Monday 6th July 2026
Duration: Four consecutive nights (Monday to Thursday inclusive)
Working Hours: 7:00pm – 6:00am

Temporary Traffic Management arrangements will be in place throughout the duration of the works to facilitate the safe completion of the scheme while maintaining traffic movements through the roundabouts.

Road users should expect some delays, lane restrictions and intermittent disruption during the working hours, and are advised to allow additional journey time where possible.

Book of Condolences open for former Galway footballer Paul Clancy

Briain Kelly

June 29, 2026

A Book of Condolences is open for the next two weeks in memory of the former Galway footballer Paul Clancy who passed away last week.

Extending her condolences, Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Helen Ogbu said: “On behalf of the people of Galway City, I wish to extend my deepest sympathies to the family of Paul Clancy on his passing, particularly to his wife Johanna, and children, Finn and Ellen. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.”

Paul Clancy was a two-time All-Ireland senior football champion with Galway, winning titles in 1998 and 2001. At club level, he played a key role as Maigh Cuilinn secured the All-Ireland Intermediate title in 2008.

He later served as club chairperson during their Connacht Senior Club Championship success in 2022.

Moycullen GAA paid tribute to Paul, saying “Paul is our most decorated player, an inspiration to a generation, remembered for having a sweet left peg, being teak tough and having an unwavering mindset but beyond the playing pitches he leaves a lasting legacy.”

“He was an icon to so many in our community, so well known, so well respected and always had a word for everyone, a straight shooter with the boot and, if needed, with the lip. Calm and assured, reliable and loyal.”

“We think of his wife Johanna, children Ellen and Finn. Pauls mother Mary, brother Gearoid, sisters Linda & Ailish and all in the wider Clancy & Fahy families.”

“Paul was known as a sports man but above all he was a family man, a great friend and a man we were lucky to have met. Rest easy a chara, we will miss you more than words can say”

Mr Clancy was also involved in team management, having been part of the Galway senior football management team under Alan Mulholland, and later working with the Laois senior team under Justin McNulty.

The Book of Condolences will remain open until July 14 2026. It is available in City Hall during normal opening hours, and online at https://apps.galwaycity.ie/iforms/index.php/512691.

Galway to celebrate National Play Day with family fun in Oughterard

Briain Kelly

June 27, 2026

Galway Sports Partnership, in collaboration with Galway County Council, is inviting families from across the county to celebrate National Play Day 2026 with a free afternoon of fun, activity and community connection at Corribdale Park, Oughterard on Saturday, 11 July from 1pm to 3pm.

This year’s National Play Day theme, “Play for All”, highlights the important role play has in supporting children’s development, encouraging creativity, building friendships and strengthening communities.

The event will feature a wide range of free family-friendly activities, including garden games, Irish dancing, circus skills, a sensory area, flag football, golf, orienteering and face painting.

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Councillor Andrew Reddington, said National Play Day provides an opportunity for families and communities to come together.

“Galway County Council is proud to support National Play Day 2026. Play is an essential part of childhood and community life, helping to nurture creativity, friendship and wellbeing.

“We encourage families across the county to come along, take part in the celebrations and enjoy the many benefits that play brings to children, families and communities.”

Chief Executive of Galway County Council, Liam Conneally, said the event reflects the Council’s commitment to creating inclusive communities where children and families can thrive.

“At Galway County Council, we are committed to creating vibrant, inclusive communities where every child can thrive. National Play Day reflects our commitment to supporting families and promoting wellbeing through accessible public spaces and community-led initiatives.”

Galway Sports Partnership continues to promote participation in sport and physical activity across the county, with a particular focus on encouraging engagement among groups who may traditionally face barriers to participation, including young girls, people with disabilities and disadvantaged communities.

Coordinator of Galway Sports Partnership, Andrew McBride, said National Play Day is an important celebration of the role play has in bringing people together.

“Play is essential for children’s physical, emotional and social development. National Play Day is a fantastic opportunity to bring communities together and celebrate the importance of ensuring every child has the chance to play, connect and thrive.

“It encourages active, healthy lifestyles in a fun, inclusive and welcoming environment.”

Admission to the event is free and all families are welcome. Families are encouraged to bring a picnic, wear comfortable clothing and come ready to play.

Grant funding available for Ahascragh streetscape improvements

Briain Kelly

June 26, 2026

Galway County Council is now seeking applications for the latest round of the Streetscape Enhancement Scheme for the town of Ahascragh.

This initiative to give a facelift to the town centre is part of the Town & Village Renewal Scheme funded by the Department of Rural & Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

The initiative aims to revitalise the village centre by improving the visual appearance of buildings and public spaces, enhancing Ahascragh as an attractive place to live, work and do business.

The scheme offers grant support to property owners and tenants for painting and façade improvements, with funding of up to 70% for individual properties and 80% where three or more neighbouring properties apply together.

Eligible works include shopfront improvements, painting, signage upgrades, lighting, repairs, decluttering, and greening elements such as planting, all designed to reflect the character and heritage of the village.

Applications are open to owners, tenants, community groups and residents within the qualifying area, with works to be completed by September 2026.

The Council encourages strong local participation to maximise the visual impact and is available to provide guidance throughout the application process.

Cong to Galway Sailing Race cancelled due to weather conditions

Briain Kelly

June 26, 2026

galway daily news cong to galway sailing race postponed

The Cong to Galway Sailing Race due to take place this weekend has been cancelled due to weather conditions.

The longest inland sailing race in Europe, the race begins at Lisloughrey Pier in Cong, Co. Mayo and travels the full length of Lough Corrib to finish in Galway City.

The annual race was due to take place this Saturday, but Galway Hooker Sailing Club said on Friday morning that

However, race organisers said in the same statement that they will be hoping to put the event on in August.

“Unfortunately we have to postpone this due to unsuitable weather conditions for the lake on Saturday. We’ll look forward to it again in August. Stay tuned for more.”

Weather warning for thunderstorms in Galway today

Briain Kelly

June 26, 2026

galway daily news Weather warning for heavy wind and rain to hit Galway

A weather warning has been issued for possible thunderstorms in Galway and 15 other countries today as temperatures continue to remain blisteringly high in the heatwave.

Met Eireann has issued a status yellow weather warning for possible thunderstorms in Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Clare, Tipperary, Kildare, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath and all of Connacht.

However, Met Eireann has said that despite the broad coverage of the warning, not all areas will experience thunderstorms due to their “hit and miss” nature.

The areas affected may experience flooding, hail damage, and difficult travelling conditions. There may also be some damage to utilities including power, gas, water, and telecommunications.

The thunderstorm warning will be in effect from 9am to 6pm Friday. A high temperature warning for all of Ireland remains in place until 9am on Saturday.

Temperatures up to 25 degrees are expected in parts of Galway today, with the risk of thunderstorms also greatest at the hottest part of the afternoon.

Five week roadworks underway on the N83

Briain Kelly

June 26, 2026

Traffic disruption is expected on the N83 for several weeks while roadworks are taking place between Galway City and Claregalway.

The county council is carrying out resurfacing works on the N83 between Claregalway and the Parkmore Junction.

The work began on Thursday at the Claregalway end of the affected area, and will continue working towards Parkmore in the coming weeks.

It is expected that the roadworks will take five weeks to complete, with traffic management and lane closures during the works.

Motorists travelling to Galway are advised to divert from Baile Chláir towards Oranmore and use M6 Motorway via exit 19.

Motorists travelling from Galway to Baile Chláir are advised to divert via City by M6 Motorway and exiting at Junction 19.

Consequently users of this road are requested to expect delays and as such should allow additional time for their journeys.

Creative Places Tuam Begins New Chapter Under Local Leadership with Arts Council Award

Briain Kelly

June 25, 2026

Creative Places Tuam has secured Arts Council funding for 2026 and 2027, paving the way for a new phase of the community‑led arts programme under local leadership.

The initiative, which supports artists, funds community projects and promotes cultural activity in Tuam and surrounding areas, will become fully locally based from 2027.

Governance will transfer from Create, the national agency for collaborative arts, to Galway County Council’s Arts Office.

The move follows five years of development under Create, which has managed the programme since 2020.

Since its establishment, Creative Places Tuam has delivered artist residencies, community commissions, creative exchanges, development days, public events, publications, short films and original music projects, strengthening links between Tuam’s creative community and the wider arts sector.

Galway County Council Chief Executive Liam Conneally welcomed the continued investment by the Arts Council in Creative Places Tuam.

“This programme shows the strength of partnership between national and local government in supporting artists and communities.”

“The shift to locally led governance is an important milestone and reflects our commitment to placing arts and culture at the heart of community development across the county.”

Director of Services for Tuam Municipal District Michael Owens said the programme had helped to build confidence and creative engagement in the town.

“Over the past five years, Creative Places has helped to reconnect the town with its creative potential and build confidence locally. We now have a real opportunity to support regeneration by placing arts and culture at the centre of civic life.”

“It will continue to strengthen partnerships, activate spaces and create new opportunities for people to engage with creativity in their own town.”

The programme for 2026 and 2027 has been shaped by consultation with Tuam’s creative community and feedback gathered through an artist survey in 2025.

New initiatives will include monthly one‑to‑one mentoring sessions known as Soundboard 121, the Graft Series for networking and knowledge exchange, and Loop Sessions, informal creative meet‑ups.

The programme will also include screenings, an Open Call, Art cArt outings, Sounding Tuam, three artist residencies and the Cultural Growth Fund, which organisers say has seen a 40% increase in applications since its launch.

Galway County Arts Officer Sharon O’Grady said the programme would continue to support both artists and communities.

“This next phase of the locally led Creative Places Tuam will support artists to develop their practice while enabling communities to shape and participate in their cultural life,” she said.

“It aligns with the ambitions in Galway County Council’s Arts Plan 2026–2030 and with regeneration plans for Tuam, with arts and culture contributing to the town’s social and civic life.”

“With the support of the local community, we were empowered to take the lead on this next stage of the programme.”

Creative Places Tuam Coordinator Fiona Hession described the announcement as an important milestone. “As both an artist and resident of Tuam, I am incredibly excited by this announcement.”

“It feels like a real milestone for the National Creative Places Programme, and especially for Creative Places Tuam, a programme now rooted in Tuam, shaped by local voices and driven by the community.”

“I look forward to seeing it grow and create meaningful creative opportunities here in Tuam,” she said.

Residents, artists, community groups and organisations are invited to take part in the next phase of the programme.

Further information is available at www.creativeplacestuam.ie or by emailing info@creativeplacestuam.ie.

University of Galway research shows the need to plan for costal relocations

Briain Kelly

June 25, 2026

Galway Daily life & style film competition to capture the beauty of the coast

Ireland must shift from monitoring coastal erosion as a physical process to establishing the urgent legal and financial mechanisms required to relocate homes and infrastructure, according to new research from University of Galway.

The working paper published by the Climate Change Advisory Council moves beyond the science of coastal change to provide the first comprehensive roadmap for a national Coastal Change Adaptation Framework.

Entitled ‘Managing Coastal Risks in Ireland: Towards strategies that integrate planned coastal relocations’, the report identifies potential policy levers, zoning tools, and funding structures needed to carry out the planned relocation of people and critical assets (residential and commercial properties, roads, bridges, rail lines, ports and harbours, telecommunication networks, or utility plants) away from at-risk zones.

The working paper highlights that the scale of the threat from coastal erosion is immense. It notes a survey of eight local authorities which identified 2,279 properties and 570km of roads at risk.

These numbers are projected to jump to 4,446 properties by 2050, a figure that will rise substantially once all local authorities covering 19 coastal counties report their data.

The paper argues that while erosion is an inevitable natural process, the current lack of a binding framework for retreat has left the State in a cycle of ad hoc reactive engineering and unmanaged loss.

To protect current and future generations, the Government must now prioritise the creation of a masterplan that operationalises how – and not just why – coastal communities will move to safety.

Dr Eugene Farrell, Associate Professor at University of Galway and lead author of the report, said, “The core issue is accountability and action. Governments and communities cannot continue to frame today’s coastal erosion crisis as an unforeseeable outcome.”

“The science has been clear for decades, and the warnings were widely available. What is required now is decisive remedial and adaptive action. Implementing ‘planned relocation’ from eroding coastlines is not optional – it is an essential responsibility of present governance.”

The working paper outlines a series of actions for Government to consider to respond to the increasing risks associated with coastal erosion that will require houses, roads and other infrastructure to be relocated:

New legislation addressing coastal change and planned relocation
Consistent coastal planning and zoning guidance at a national level
Comprehensive, high-resolution coastal risk data
A national framework for funding and compensation for relocation
Clear governance structures and well-defined roles for all agencies
Substantial investment in technical capacity within local authorities to manage relocation
Robust community engagement to support meaningful dialogue around relocation

Dr Farrell added, “Planned relocation is often framed as a ‘last resort,’ but it should be viewed as a valid strategic shift when defending homes or roads becomes unsustainable.”

“By planning for the strategic movement of people and infrastructure early, we can reduce exposure to extreme events, lower long-term costs, and build community resilience.”

Howl at the Moon – a night time walk for a lifesaving cause

Briain Kelly

June 25, 2026

Galway Daily news Mountain Rescue Team saves person from Twelve Bens during hazardous weather — Rescue operation in the South Bens by Galway Mountain Rescue Team. Photo Credit: GMRT via Facebook

Following on from a very successful Howl at the Moon event in 2025, Galway Mountain Rescue Team is calling on local adventurers, nature lovers, and night owls to step into the moonlight once again for a cause that saves lives.

On the evening of the Harvest Full Moon, Saturday, September 26, the charity will host “Howl at the Moon” – a unique walking challenge set in Galway Wind Park.

The event offers a unique opportunity for participants to hike around the Wind Farm under the full moon, following either a 9km or 17km route. Everyone is encouraged to come well-prepared with suitable warm gear and a head torch and of course have a hugely enjoyable evening.

“Galway Mountain Rescue is very appreciative of the support that we receive from the Public. The Howl at the Moon event is an opportunity to meet the team and have a very enjoyable evening hiking around the Wind farm.”

“All funds will go towards our voluntary activities of helping those who need our assistance in the remote and upland areas of Galway and Clar” said Dermot Hughes, Team Member and event manager.

Howl at the Moon 2026 promises to be even more enjoyable and successful than 2025.

Whether you’re a multiple “Howl at the Moon” participant or you’re considering taking part for the first time, the event is sure to be an unforgettable community celebration.

So why not come along for an evening of craic as you help a very worthy cause!

Event Details:

Date: 26th September 2026
Time: Walks begin from 6:15 PM
Location: Galway Wind Park – SSE Renewables, Lettercraffroe, Knock South, Galway, H91 K46D
Distance Options: 9km or 17km
Registration Fee: €35 (Adults) / €25 (U17) / €50 (On the night)
Registration Link: https://howlatthemoon.ie/

Participants are also encouraged to raise sponsorship or donate further to support the life-saving work of the mountain rescue team.

Cllr Andrew Reddington elected Cathaoirleach of County Galway

Briain Kelly

June 25, 2026

Councillor Andrew Reddington is the new Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway after being unanimously elected at the county council’s AGM.

A member of Fine Gael, Cathaoirleach Reddington succeeds party colleague Councillor David Collins from Turloughmore in the role.

He was first elected to Galway County Council at the 2019 Local Elections and represents the Tuam Municipal District.

A native of Claran, Headford, Councillor Reddington has a strong background in community development. He works with GRETB in Youthreach, is a part-time suckler farmer, and is actively involved in community and voluntary organisations.

Reddington is a community volunteer with the Headford St Patrick’s Day Parade and Christmas Lights committees, Chairperson of Little Acorns-Kilcoona Community Childcare and a coach with Headford GAA.

He is married to Bernie and they have three children.

Councillor Michael Regan (Fianna Fáil) has been elected as Leas Cathaoirleach at the AGM, succeeding Councillor Mary Hoade (Fianna Fáil) in the role.

Addressing elected members, Council staff, family members and friends following his election, Cathaoirleach Reddington outlined his priorities for the year ahead.

“I am honoured to have been elected Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, and I want to thank my fellow elected members for the confidence they have shown in me.”

“I will be fair and impartial in carrying out this role and will work to further strengthen the relationship between elected members and the executive, ensuring that the people we represent are heard.”

“Improving cooperation with Uisce Éireann will be a key priority for me, to help enable much-needed infrastructure projects to progress across the county. These projects are vital for the future growth and development of our towns and communities.”

“Galway must continue to work closely with the IDA and Enterprise Ireland to secure further investment from multinational and indigenous Irish companies.”

“We have huge potential across our county, and we must continue to promote Galway as a place to live, work and invest.”

Cathaoirleach Reddington said the year ahead would be an important one for Galway as Ireland prepares to hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

“This will be a very important year for Galway as Ireland takes up the EU Presidency and it is important that our county benefits from the opportunities that this brings.”

He also highlighted the importance of progressing major infrastructure projects. “I will continue to drive on the Galway Ring Road project and ensure that every effort is made to deliver this vital piece of infrastructure for the county.”

Cathaoirleach Reddington said he would continue to make the case for increased investment in local government. “I will impress upon central government that increased funding is required for Galway County Council to deliver the vital services that people depend on.”

“We also need to challenge the idea that rural Ireland is dying. I plan to fly the flag for Galway and showcase all the qualities our county has as a place to live, work and invest.”

Reflecting on his background in community development, Cathaoirleach Reddington said he wants to use his term in office to recognise the contribution of communities and volunteers across Galway.

“I have a strong background in community development, and I have always stood up for what I believe is right for our communities. During my term as Cathaoirleach, I want to celebrate the wonderful work carried out by volunteers and community and voluntary groups across County Galway.”

“I also will support the development of County Galway’s first County Sports Plan as well as assist the Local Community Safety Partnership in progressing the Local Community Safety Plan.”