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Country house has been renovated to luxurious standards

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Galway Daily property Country house has been renovated to luxurious standards

This four bedroom country house in Corrandulla has been refurbished to the highest possible standard, and despite hardly being more than 10 years old, also benefits from a recent magnificent modern extension.

O’Donnellan & Joyce Auctioneers are offering this two storey detached house with large gardens at Balrobuck More, Corrandulla for sale by Private Treaty.

The extremely high quality of the work that has gone into this home is evident from the moment you step through the front door. The Entrance Hall leads directly into the Kitchen, and their shining tiled floors give way to rich hardwood in the other areas of the living space.

Part of what makes this home special is the abundance of spaces for people to relax, work, or entertain in, offered by the different living areas between the original house and extension.

Country house has been renovated to luxurious standards

The main Living Room in the extension is a masterclass in luxury, featuring a stove set into a large brick fireplace, adding additional warmth to the wooden floor. A dining area is also included, helping to ensure this is truly a ‘living’ space for all parts of family life.

But even before that there is a smaller Living Room off the entrance hall with its own fireplace and stylish coving. 

While just off that is a Study that truly lives up to a name that is all too often bandied about, with an impressive built in library wrapping around two walls and even over the door. A prime example of the attention to detail which the owners have put into the design.

Country house has been renovated to luxurious standards

The light filled kitchen is outfitted with modern appliances and a stylish decor that includes tiled floors and granite countertops. For casual family time there is a bespoke kitchen island with built in storage space, and a small dining area that soaks up light from the windows and patio doors.

Just off the kitchen is a utility room, and a fully tiled guest bathroom with a shower, and a heated towel rack radiator, for additional comfort.

Upstairs can be the house’s four double bedrooms which ooze comfort from their thick carpeted floors.

The Master Bedroom, located in the extension area, is more of a suite than a single room. It has its own entrance hall, two walk-in wardrobes that offer more storage space than you’d know what to do with, and a tiled ensuite bathroom, outfitted with a spacious shower.

One of the other three bedrooms also comes with an ensuite, and the floor also has the house’s main bathroom, where you can relax in the luxurious step-up bath.

Even the first floor landing is more than just a strip of corridor, featuring its own little study space situated to soak in the light.

A staircase on the first floor landing leads up to the walk-in attic space, which is fitted with two skylights.

The grounds cover a 0.22ha site of impeccably maintained gardens, with green lawns bordered by stone walls, and a patio for enjoying in the summer.

There is ample parking out front in the paved driveway, but if you have multiple cars a garage to the rear offers additional parking space.

Alternatively, with not a jot of work needed on the main house, this could be easily renovated into a new space by any potential homeowner.

The location of the house is well positioned for quiet life, without being isolated. It’s just a short distance from the local school in Corrandulla, and also within easy reach of Headford town and Galway City by car.

The property is extremely energy efficient, with a B2 BER rating courtesy of its young age and the high quality upgrades.

This house has a total floor space of 294.54 m² / 3170 ft², and an asking price of €475,000.

To see more check it out on O’Donnellan & Joyce’s website at odonnjoyce.com/residential/brochure/balrobuck-more-corrandulla-galway/4454398.

If you’re interested in making an inquiry about this property or arranging a viewing, contact O’Donnellan & Joyce at 091 564 212 between 9am and 5:30pm, Monday – Friday.

GMIT virtual Careers Fair launches Monday

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Galway Daily news ATU Languages Competition for secondary schools returns for 2nd year

GMIT will be running its first ever online Careers Fair on Monday to provide a virtual setting where students can connect with prospective employers.

The Careers Fair, which is an annual part of GMIT’s calendar, will be live from 12pm to 3pm on Monday, October 5 on www.careerfairplus.com, as well as through the Careers Fair Plus App.

Despite the changed circumstances, this year’s fair features companies from a range of industries such as accounting, agriculture, engineering, business, construction, science, and software.

There are many returning companies who regularly take part in normal Careers Fairs such as Cisco, Ericsson, Fidelity Investments, Aldi, Musgraves, EY and more.

These companies will be offering all the latest information on both employment and placement opportunities, career trends along with tips and advice for students and graduates.

Students are able to pre-book virtual appointments with employers to discuss relevant job opportunities.

GMIT Careers Officer Bridie Killoran described it as a “new channel to generate employment for our students and graduates – locally, nationally, and internationally.”

“Over 20% of employer appointments were booked within the first day demonstrating the substantial interest from students to meet potential employers.”

Employers can deliver company presentations online, and there is also a ‘Drop In Room’ facility where students can connect with an employer representative online.

The event aims to support local and regional enterprise offering an opportunity for employers to engage with students.

Fiona O’Donnell from GMIT Careers Service said “Our advice is that students and graduates should really do their research before meeting the employers to ensure they get the best out of their meetings.

PBP Galway meeting to look at solutions to the housing crisis

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galway daily news people before profit meeting galway

People Before Profit Galway will host an online public meeting this week looking at solutions to the housing crisis and the redevelopment of several areas in the city.

The meeting, titled “Solutions to the Housing Crisis: Public Housing on Public Land”, will take place on PBP Galway’s Facebook page on Thursday, 8 October at 7.30pm.

Guest speakers on the night will include Cllr Tina MacVeigh, who is Chair of the National Homeless and Housing Coalition, and Derrick Hambleton of the Galway branch of An Taisce.

“Plans are being drawn up for the redevelopment of several areas of the city including Sandy Road, Dyke Road, around Ceannt Station and Nuns Island,” said PBP Galway spokesperson Adrian Curran.

“Much of this land is publicly owned. In recognition of the housing emergency Galway faces, PBP believe public land must be used to build public housing and community facilities.

“We’ll be discussing this on the night as well as how we can build a people power movement to fight against the sell-off of public land and for proper housing for all.”

Schools across county ready to take part in Maths Week from October 10

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galway daily news maths week ireland
Minister for Education and Skills, Norma Foley T.D; Cian Matthew O’Sullivan, Scoil Chaoimhin, Marlborough Street, Dublin; Dr Ruth Freeman, Director of Science for Society, Science Foundation Ireland, and Sheila Donegan from Maths Week Ireland. Photo Chris Bellew /Fennell Photography.

People and schools across Galway are gearing up to take part in the annual festival of maths next week which, like many other celebrations this year, will largely take place online.

The fun, all-inclusive celebration promotes and develops a positive attitude towards maths in young people, and a wider awareness of the importance of maths across all sectors of society.

Maths Week Ireland has grown to be the biggest festival of its kind in the world over the last 15 years, and has been replicated in Scotland and England.

Health restrictions mean that this year’s celebration will look different, with few physical events able to take place.

But the fun and magic of maths week will be replicated in lots of virtual events across the week.

The Maths Week 2020 Nationwide Scavenger Hunt will take place on Saturday 10 October 2020 when families will need to work together to accomplish missions and bonus tasks.

Families can join the activity via an app and each team will receive a code to take part. Problem solving, creativity and a good sense of humour is advised!

Viable solution identified for Gort Lowlands flood relief scheme

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Galway Daily news Viable solution identified for Gort Lowlands flood relief scheme

Proposals for the Gort Lowlands Flood Relief Scheme have advanced with the completion of a feasibility report that has identified a potentially viable scheme after more than two years and several delays.

Galway East TD Seán Canney has said that the county council has informed him that report has identified a scheme that is both environmentally acceptable and cost beneficial.

“This is great news for the many families who have suffered from flooding over many decades,” Canney said.

The Independent TD was one of those who first advanced an initiative for a flood relief scheme for south Galway in 2016, along with Deputy Denis Naughten, after heavy flooding the year before

Most recently, Gort was badly affected by flood waters in February of this year, with large areas of farmland left submerged for extended periods of time.

The Feasibility Study for the Scheme was commissioned by Galway County Council in 2018, with the first public consultations taking place in May of that year.

There have been multiple delays to the completion of the feasibility report due to technical difficul

“Whilst there was a delay in finalising the report, it is gratifying that we now have a project with engineering solutions based on cost benefits,” Seán Canney said.

“I look forward to the project being brought forward to full design and construction. The people of Gort deserve a break from fear of being flooded. Now we have a solution”.

“I want to acknowledge the work of the Consultants, Galway County Council, Flood Action Group and G.S.I for their input.”

David Murray of the South Galway Flood Relief Scheme Committee also welcomed the news of the report’s completion, with a solution in mind.

“After decades of turmoil for many in South Galway, after decades of disappointment and frustration with infeasible solutions we have finally found a feasible solution to flooding in South Galway that is backed by scientific forensic analysis.”

“There is a viable solution to flooding in South Galway which means that an investment in a solution here will save money in the long term and bring an end to the devastating threat that has plagued our community for over sixty years.”

“There is a lot of work yet to be done and many challenges ahead before we realise the full solution and while we are now in unchartered territory, we have overcome the decades-long challenge of South Galway not being worth saving.”

Heroic fishermen showed “fantastic community spirit” of Galway with sea rescue

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Galway Daily news Heroic fisherman showed "fantastic community spirit" of Galway with sea rescue

The father and son who rescued to young woman from the waters of Galway Bay after a 15 ordeal showed the “fantastic community spirit” in Galway Mayor Mike Cubbard said.

Claddagh fishermen Patrick and Morgan Oliver were honoured at a Mayor Reception held in Leisureland on Friday in recognition of their achievements.

The fishermen rescued Sara Feeney and Ellen Glynn from the water south west of Inis Oírr after a massive rescue operation in August.

The two young woman had been swept out to sea while paddle boarding at Furbo, and ended up being carried almost 20 miles, where they eventually tied their boards to a lobster pot to hold on overnight.

The search involved the RNLI, Coast Guard, Rescue helicopters, and private boats and aircraft.

The Morgan’s used their knowledge of the waters in the are to estimate where the rides would have carried the two, and found them the following morning.

“The heroic actions of Patrick and Morgan Oliver have captured the imaginations of both the people of Galway and people across the nation at a time when good news is, unfortunately, less common,” Mike Cubbard said at the reception.

“This rescue, however, highlights the fantastic community spirit which exists in Galway as hundreds of people across the city and county offered their help with the search operation.”

Mayor Cubbard presented the two with a bronze model of a traditional Irish currach and a framed and signed presentation scroll.

A small presentation of All the Falling Stars jewellery was also made to Ellen Glynn and Sara Feeney in recognition of their bravery throughout the ordeal.

Coronavirus: 19 new cases confirmed in Galway

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

Two more people with Covid-19 have died and 613 new cases of the virus have been confirmed – the highest number of additional cases reported since the end of April.

The Department of Health has also confirmed that eight further deaths related to the disease occurred before September.

Of today’s new cases, 19 are in Galway – where the total number since the start of the pandemic has now surpassed 800.

Dublin, Donegal, Cork, Kildare and Limerick saw the largest numbers of new cases today, and 68% are under the age of 45.

There are currently 20 people in ICU with Covid-19 in the Republic, and 118 people with the virus in Irish hospitals.

Speaking this evening, Dr Ronan Glynn said that the numbers being reported today and over the past week represent a significant escalation in the profile of Covid-19 in Ireland.

“For those aged 70+ and those who are medically vulnerable to Covid-19, it is strongly recommended that you should limit the number of people you meet to a very small core group of family members, carers or friends, for short periods of time, while remaining physically distant,” he said.

“We need to work together once again to make a significant impact on the number of cases in the community, and ultimately to reduce the number of people getting sick, being admitted to hospital and critical care, while protecting non-Covid healthcare services.

“I urge people in every county to follow the public health advice to stop the further spread of Covid-19.”

Of the cases notified today;

  • 315 are men / 294 are women
  • 68% are under 45 years of age
  • 30% are confirmed to be associated with outbreaks or are close contacts of a confirmed case
  • 58 cases have been identified as community transmission

Two NUI Galway schools given Athena SWAN award for advancing gender equality

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Galway Daily news nui galway schools Public involvement in healthcare research seminar

Two schools at NUI Galway have been awarded a departmental Bronze Athena SWAN Award, recognising their commitment to advancing gender equality.

The University’s School of Physics and the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics received the accolade which acknowledges departments’ efforts to create cultural change within Universities.

Congratulating the two schools on the award, NUI Galway President Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh said that it is a reflection on the excellent work of all those involved.

“[It] is truly impressive that this work was completed as we simultaneously faced the challenges of Covid-19, and sustains our commitment to advancing equality to all staff and students consistent with our values of openness and respect,” he said.

The Athena SWAN Gender Equality Charter was created to encourage and recognise commitment to advancing the careers of women STEMM fields.

Since 2015 the charter recognises work undertaken in arts, humanities, social sciences, business and law, and in professional and support roles, and for trans staff and students. It now recognises work undertaken to address gender equality more broadly.

Speaking about the announcement, Dr. Tom Acton, Head of School of the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, said: “Following two years of data gathering, gap analysis and self-assessment, leading to the development of a comprehensive and ambitious Action Plan, the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics at NUI Galway is delighted to learn that it has been awarded the Athena SWAN Bronze Award.

“We are committed to inclusion, equality and diversity and to implementing the principles that underpin the Athena SWAN Charter and are thrilled that our hard work and commitment has been recognised with this award.”

Professor Gerard O’Connor, Head of NUI Galway’s School of Physics said: “I wish to convey my sincere thanks to staff and students for this important public recognition of our commitment to inclusiveness, equality and diversity in the School of Physics.

“We see this Athena SWAN Award as a milestone rather than a destination –one which is aligned with the School’s future competitiveness in research and teaching and which is integral with all our students future employability.”

Galway man wins inaugural design award at GMIT

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Galway Daily life & style Galway man wins inaugural design award at GMIT

Galway man Gerry Murray has won the first ever Conor Farrell Design Award for Excellence in Design at GMIT for his elegant lounge chair.

Gerry Murray is a Galway city native whose grandfather was a wheelwright and his father, a cabinet maker.  The love of designing, crafting, and making runs deep in his family. Gerry created the Signature Collection with the Lounge Chair #352 the centre piece.

A final year student on the Bachelor of Science in Furniture Design & Manufacture

The simple silhouettes of the #352 Lounge Chair hides well the complex geometry and jointing techniques needed to construct it. The classic low-slung lines bring together beech and leather.

The materials are from trusted sources with impeccable provenance which will not only ensure longevity but also aesthetically pleasing ageing. With care and attention, this study in craftsmanship and engineering will last a lifetime.

“The standard of the competition was outstanding with entries submitted and assessed from students in all years,” says Paul Leamy, Head of GMIT Letterfrack campus.

“The vision is to challenge students’ creativity and hone their skills while contributing to the body of design work in GMIT Letterfrack every year,” he added.

This award was created by Farrell Furniture to commemorate the memory of Conor Farrell and celebrate his love of design and working in the furniture industry.

Paul Farrell of Farrell Furniture said “A significant part of Conor’s legacy is the commercial success he helped Farrell Furniture achieve through his modern design of the Adapt and Elements office furniture ranges and his collaboration with Enterprise Ireland.

“Collectively, Conor’s vision and Enterprise Ireland’s support helped Farrell grow at home and abroad, sustaining over 100 jobs at its manufacturing facility in Ardee.”

The award trophy was designed and made by Jeremy Madden, lecturer at GMIT, who explains the concept, “It is set in a windswept hillside with a lone tree battling against the elements.

“The tree is a beacon of brilliance, simple and delicate as it manages to survive.  The solid sterling silver enforces this jewel with strength as it battles with adversity tortured by the wind.”

“The tree overcomes adversity in the open as it is on a tapered side and an undulating fall to the front.”

“The branches are swept by the winds with exposure to the elements but it survives and we capture a moment on this landscape. The sandblasted textures of the oak match this original feel of the hillside.”

Get away from it all at Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel

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Galway Daily life & style Get away from it all at Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel

If you’re thinking of getting away from it all for a staycation this holiday season, then Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel & Restaurant is the perfect destination away from the bustle of towns and cities, and slap in the middle of the Wild Atlantic Way.

The County Clare hotel sits in the shadow of Ballinalacken Castle itself, on a sprawling country estate in the midst of the Atlantic Coast and the Burren, and has been in the O’Callaghan family for three generations now. 

Owners Cecilia and Declan O’Callaghan pride themselves on creating an experience that is true to the history of the area, and unique to the culture and landscape of the west of Ireland.

Get away from it all at Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel

Embracing history

It’s not uncommon in Ireland to see the foreboding silhouette of an old castle on the horizon, sitting proud on the crest of a hill. But at Ballinalacken, guests can get a bit more intimate with the local history, as the country house hotel lies right at the foot of the castle, so close that guests could practically reach out their windows and touch it.

The tower house dates back to the 15th or 16th century, originally built by the O’Connor family, and later passing to the O’Brien’s in the late 16th century. Ballinalacken was one of the fortresses spared following the Cromwellian re-conquest of the region in the 17th century. On a good day, the O’Callaghan’s are happy to take guests up the short walk for a tour of the ruins.

It was the O’Brien family who later built the country house near the castle, at a time when luxury became more important than defensibility.

Get away from it all at Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel

Respecting the historical fabric of the estate has been an important part of the O’Callaghan’s management style, creating a guest experience that reflects the old school luxury of the country house for the gentry, but updated with modern conveniences.

The stunningly designed and furnished rooms are full of classical elements such as four-poster beds, wingback armchairs, open fireplaces, and antique furniture that call back to an era of rich indulgence, except now that same experience is easily available to all.

“We wanted to keep it in line with what was always here,” Cecilia explains, “A minority of  people might say we’re dated, but in actual fact we’re not just another shiny hotel, we’re a hotel with a sense of history.”

Get away from it all at Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel

“We have some old rooms from the time Lord O’Brien lived here. And then when you look out the windows you have the views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Aran Islands. So we have the history on one side, and the views on the other.”

That historical design has another benefit in this current age, in that it simply provides more space for guests to distance from one another. The high ceilings and plentiful windows of Ballinalacken provide plenty of room for air to circulate. And with 12 bedrooms, guests aren’t stacked on top of one another.

The Wild Wild West

Getting away from it all has always been a mantra of taking a holiday, but rarely has it been more literally meant, and Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel is truly a place where a family could enjoy a holiday away from any crowds.

Beyond the 100 acre estate itself, there are a huge number of opportunities nearby for guests to enjoy nature, and the scenery of the Atlantic coast, without necessarily having to come into contact with another person.

The hotel sits at a nexus of attractions on the west coast of Ireland. It’s just a few minutes away from Doolin, the gateway to the Aran Islands in County Clare, and the majesty of the Cliffs of Moher, a truly unmissable experience for anyone who finds themselves in Clare. 

There are many ways to enjoy the unique scenery of the Burren that sits practically at your feet here, such as walking the Burren Trail, or going horse riding through the hills of Slieve Elva. 

Or if you’ve gotten a bit sick of stunning vistas clogging up the horizon, and want to indulge your inner agoraphobe, then a trip to the Doolin Cave. One of the best kept secrets of the Wild Atlantic Way, here you can experience that goes so far beyond human stories, with stalactites that have been growing for hundreds of millions of years.

Wined and Dined

An essential part of enjoying a holiday evening at the end of a long day stretching the legs to take in as much as possible, is sitting down at the table for a delicious restaurant meal. But these days, people are feeling a bit leery of going out to eat Cecilia says, which is why they’ve kept their restaurant open seven days a week since the hotel reopened this summer.

“Especially since the pandemic started, people just refuse to go out to eat. So they wine, dine, and stay here.”

Every meal at Ballinalacken prepared by chef Michael Foley is its own little trip around Clare, right on your plate, with a menu prepared using the finest local suppliers. 

“We have the Burren Smokehouse, we have St. Tola’s goat’s cheese, we have the Clare Lamb,” Cecelia says, listing just a few of the many local suppliers they work with. 

Consistency is key to good food, so Ballinalacken can trace all of their food back to a single supplier. The restaurant menu, which is appreciated by tourists and locals alike, changes throughout the year to take advantage of the freshest seasonal ingredients that are found locally.

A Family Hotel

While the hotel chain is increasingly becoming the industry standard, with large hospitality companies owning hotels around the country, or the world, Ballinalacken has been a family business for three generations now, and the O’Callaghan’s feel that it’s important it stay that way.

The house, castle, and lands were originally owned by the O’Brien family. The country house has its origins in the 1840s  when it was a country destination for the gentry owned by Lord O’Brien.

Daniel O’Callaghan, the grandfather  bought the house, the castle ruins, and the entire 100 acre estate off Lord O’Brien in 1938, and began running it as a hotel. Daniel eventually passed it on to his son Dennis, who ran it together with his wife Mary. This then brings us to their son Declan, who is the co- owner  with his wife Cecilia.

The family tradition is in no peril of dying out anytime soon Cecilia tells me, as their own son  Daniel loves the place, and enjoys working there. The 18 year old has already worked in the hotel in the past, with great enthusiasm, and has just taken up hotel management at GMIT. 

That joy in the experience is an important part of any family business, but especially one that is so focused on creating good experiences for others. “It’s different if you have to do it, but he wants to do it,” Cecilia explains.  

That family history carries with it an attention to detail and pride in their hotel that pays off for guests. Declan and Cecilia aren’t just the owners, they’re your hosts.

Little touches like helping put together a sightseeing itinerary for guests that aren’t familiar with the area, or flapping jaws with a someone who’s enjoying an evening at the bar are part of what elevate a stay at Ballinalacken from a holiday, to a true experience of Irish hospitality.

To enquire about staying at Ballinalacken Castle, call 065 7074 025,text /WhatsApp Cecilia at 0863613719  or email info@ballinalackencastle.com.

Weather warning issued for County Galway

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Galway Daily weather Rough weekend forecast as weather warning issued by Met Eireann

A status yellow weather warning has been issued for three counties along the West  coast, including Galway.

The Met Éireann warning for wind will come into effect tomorrow, Sunday, at 12pm and will remain in place until 10pm.

The weather experts say northwest winds will strengthen on Sunday, with mean wind speeds of 50 to 65km/h and gusts of 90 to 100km.

The weather warning has also been issued for counties Clare and Kerry.

As for today, it will be mainly dry with bright or sunny spells. A few scattered showers will occur in coastal areas and showers could turn heavy in the evening.

It will remain cooler than normal, with maximum temperatures of 11 to 13 degrees.

Three local electoral areas in Galway among top 50 for 14-day Covid incidence rate

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Galway daily covid-19 coronavirus galway cases 14 day incidence

Three Local Electoral Areas in Co Galway are among the 50 areas with the highest 14-day Covid-19 incidence rates in the Republic, according to the latest data available on Ireland’s Covid Hub.

On 28 September, Loughrea LEA and Gort-Kinvara LEA had 14-day incidence rates per 100,000 people of 112 and 110.6 respectively, while the average in the Republic was 88.2.

Galway City East also jumped into the top 50 LEAs for Covid-19 in the country, with 94 cases per 100,000 population in the two weeks prior to 28 September.

Other LEAs have been less badly affected – Conamara North had a incidence rate of just 28.1 and Conamara South’s 14-day rate was 46.5, with just 14 confirmed cases across the two electoral areas in 14 days.

Ballinasloe LEA has the lowest 14-day incidence rate of Covid-19 in the county at 17.8. Just five cases were confirmed in the area over two weeks.

More recent figures released by the HPSC (up to the 30 September) shows that overall the county had 206 cases in the last two weeks of September, giving the county a 14-day rate of 79.8 cases per 100,000 people.

The Covid incidence rates across all Galway LEAs

Galway City West – 63.1

Galway City East – 94

Galway City Central – 71.2

Conamara North – 28.1

Conamara South – 46.5

Athenry- Oranmore – 54.8

Tuam – 45.2

Gort – Kinvara – 110.6

Ballinasloe – 17.8

Loughrea – 112

*The national average and 14-day rate of Covid-19 across the LEAs are from 15/09 to 28/09. The HPSC rate for Co Galway is from 17/09/2020 to midnight 30/09/2020.

NUIG student discusses Monday night’s party on USA News network

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galway daily news nbc usa news nui galway

NUI Galway Students’ Union President Pádraic Toomey appeared on NBC News’ Global Hangout yesterday to talk about the gatherings of students in the city on Monday night, and what life is like on campus during the pandemic.

The engineering student at NUI Galway appeared in the discussion programme alongside a student from Manchester and two epidemiologists from the US.

Asked by NBC News‘ Correspondent Tesa Arcilla about the congregation of students and young people in the city on Monday night, Pádraic Toomey said that it was ‘unacceptable behaviour’ – but what happened must be put in context.

“At the same time, it was a small minority. It was a couple of hundred students in a city of over 30,000 students,” he said.

He also described the bad behaviour as being part of a ‘perfect storm’ – as the government announced that colleges wouldn’t be opening properly after people had already moved to the city.

“It was the perfect evening in the fact that it was very dry, it was very nice to be outside so there were a lot of people drinking in an area called the Spanish Arch which is an area known for a bit of outdoor drinking,” he said.

“But it went a bit too far and a lot gathered – and it was scary for the neighbours.”

Responding to Tesa Arcilla’s question about Senator Ollie Crowe who suggested the army be called in, Pádraic said that it was sensationalist, and not the right thing to do.

“There were also calls for water cannons to be put there to water blast students away or something, and for the police to be giving the names and addresses … to NUIG. There are legal issues with that too,” added the NUI Galway Students’ Union president.

“So there were calls which were too threatening, it goes against the idea that we’re in this together, that we can do the right thing and we can work on it and we can be part of the solution.”

Watch the full Global Hangout below, where Pádraic also discusses life on campus during the pandemic.

Climate justice demonstration to march in Galway city

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Galway Daily news Eyre Square vigil planned for 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday

A climate justice demonstration will take place in Galway City later today, with protestors to march through the city centre to the Spanish Arch.

The protest, which is being organised by a coalition of local groups, will assemble at the Town Hall Theatre at 1pm this afternoon.

It will then proceed to Eyre Square via Woodquay, before continuing down to the Spanish Arch.

“Climate change remains the greatest issue we as a society may ever face. However, the effects of climate change will widen already existing inequalities in society,” said event organiser Cian Mortimer.

“Climate justice demands that a human rights based approach is taken in climate action, and that the most vulnerable communities are placed at the heart of the solution.”

The groups behind the demonstration are demanding the Ireland achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, and “justice for climate refugees”.

Climate change is expected to be a major driver of international migration in coming years as environmental degradation results in essential resources, like water, becoming scarcer in many areas.

To ensure a “just transition” to a net-zero emissions economy, the demonstrators that there should be no general carbon tax, with taxes instead levied on corporations; public transport should be free and green; and small-scale, environmentally friendly farming should be promoted.

Part of the goal of this event is to highlight the role which junior transport minister, and former chair of the climate action committee, Galway TD Hildegarde Naughton can play in this transition Cian Mortimer said.

Calculated grades fix “too late” for some who have started college

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Galway daily news Almost 3,500 Galway students receiving Leaving Cert results

Correcting the grades of up to 10% of Leaving Cert students affected by the calculated grades debacle may be too late for some young people who have already started college a city councillor has said.

It emerged this week that approximately 6,500 students received a lower grade than they should have in the Leaving Cert due to two errors in the code for the calculated grades system.

Education Minister Norma Foley said that these grades will be corrected, and the department will work with the CAO and higher education institutes to try and accommodate people in courses they would have been offered with their proper grades.

However, Galway City Councillor Owen Hanley said that students would be right to be cynical about the government’s attitude towards them after these “deeply troubling” failures.

“Between the failure around the late announcement surrounding no on campus lectures after many students would have already signed their leases. And now an error that could have resulted in students attending the wrong college. The Department has a lot of questions to answer.”

He noted that the first error was reported on Wednesday last week, before CAO Round 2 offers were made on the Friday, missing a “simpler opportunity” to avoid complicating the issue.

The error was uncovered on when the Canadian company working on statistical software for the calculated grades found an error in how it was analysing Junior Cert results to help predict Leaving Cert grades.

The system was supposed to aggregate Junior Cert results based on students grades in Irish, English, and Maths, and their two strongest non-core subjects, but instead it took in their two weakest other results.

An additional error was found by the Department of Education where CSPE results, which were supposed to be discarded from consideration, were being left in the system.

“For the sake of students I hope to see the Minister and Department correct any mistake and ensure students get the offers they are entitled to.

“But realistically college has already begun and for some it may be too late,” Owen Hanley said.

“At the very least it was caught by a third party at this stage, but if it wasn’t how long would it have been before the Department realised their mistakes?”

“How will those entitled to a course now be facilitated? How many deposits will be lost? We must see supports rolled out to supoort students to rectify this immediately.”

Gardaí issue reminder that Ballinasloe Fair not happening this weekend

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galway daily news Athenry Agricultural Show returns after long absence

An Garda Síochána have issued a reminder that Ballinasloe Horse Fair will not be going ahead this weekend in a joint statement with the Organising Committee.

The annual Horse Fair & Festival was due to take place tomorrow Saturday, and on Sunday, and the organisers are reminding people who were thinking of travelling to Ballinasloe this weekend that it will not be taking place.

It was decided back in June that the annual fair and festival, which is renowned the world over, would not take place this year for public health reasons.

While there was a subsequent drop in the number of COVID-19 cases appearing over the summer, the renewed numbers seen in recent days only highlight why it is important to continue to avoid large scale events such as this for the foreseeable future.

“The Ballinasloe Horse Fair has always been an event the public and the local community celebrate every year and we understand it is disappointing that due to the current pandemic it will not go ahead this weekend.”

“Unfortunately Covid-19 is still with us, and we all need to continue our hard work to keep our communities safe,” said Inspector Declan Rock of the Ballinasloe Garda District.

Alan Farrell Director of Services with Galway County Council, added that the Gardaí, HSE, and local authority are working to slow the spread of COVID-19, and need people’s support in that endeavour.

“This means that we may miss out on activities and occasions that we would usually look forward to, like this year’s horse fair, but we must remember the devastating impact Covid-19 can have if it takes hold in a community.”

“Therefore we remind the public that the decision has been taken to cancel this year’s fair and ask that the public not travel”.

Speaking on behalf of the Festival Committee its chairperson, Mal Croffey, acknowledged that cancelling this year’s event was a difficult but necessary decision to make in light of the current pandemic.

“Patrons are asked to follow the advice of the statutory authorities and not travel to the fair this weekend” he said.

An Garda Síochána will be conducting additional patrols locally over the coming weekend.

Coronavirus: Just 11 new cases in Galway today, 470 in Republic

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

The Department of Health has confirmed 470 new cases of COVID-19 in the Republic of Ireland as well as one further death related to the disease.

Just eleven of the additional confirmed cases are in Galway, while 198 are in Dublin, 61 are in Cork and 36 are in Donegal.

Including today’s increase in cases, there have now been 797 confirmed cases in Galway city and county since the start of the pandemic.

Of the additional cases, 68% are under 45 years of age and 40% are confirmed to be associated with outbreaks or are close contacts of a confirmed case.

“The situation nationally is a matter of serious concern and NPHET is now recommending that no more than 2 households should meet at any given time,” said Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn.

“It is vital that everyone – families, friends and neighbours – limit the opportunities this virus has to move from person to person and stop the spread of the disease across households.

“Behave as though you have the virus and keep yourself and those around you safe – don’t take a risk by organising or attending gatherings with more than one other household.”

A total of 1,404 cases have been confirmed across the island of Ireland today after the North recorded 934 new positive test results earlier today.

Today’s county breakdown

198 in Dublin

61 in Cork

36 in Donegal

19 in Kildare

19 in Limerick

12 in Kerry

11 in Galway

11 in Meath

10 in Roscommon

9 in Cavan

9 in Clare

9 in Kilkenny

9 in Longford

9 in Offaly

9 in Westmeath

8 in Louth

7 in Tipperary

7 in Wexford

The remaining 17 cases are in 7 counties.

Connacht squad named to face Glasgow in season opener

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

Andy Friend has named the Connacht Rugby squad that will face off against Glasgow in the 2020/21 Guinness PRO14 season opener this weekend.

Jared Butler is leading again in his third season as captain since joining in 2017. He is leading from his position as blindside flanker at number 6.

Conor Oliver is also earning a start at openside after an impressive pre-season campaign. Paul Boyle completes the back row at number 8.

Denis Buckley, Dave Heffernan and Finlay Bealham bring a wealth of experience to the front row, while Gavin Thornbury and Quinn make up the rest of the pack in the second row.

Friend has named the same backline that put in a brilliant attacking display against Ulster at the Aviva Stadium, with Irish international trio Kieran Marmion, Jack Carty and Bundee Aki forming the 9-10-12 axis.

Tom Farrell partners Aki in the centre, while John Porch continues at full-back with Alex Wootton and Peter Sullivan on the wings.

200 spectators will be in attendance at The Sportsground – including previous season ticket holders – in what will be the first Guinness PRO14 game at The Sportsground in over seven months.

“There’s no hiding the fact that last weekend’s Eagles game was very disappointing and we’re keen to quickly move on from it,” Andy Friend said.

“That said, the spirit and energy at training has been really positive all week and there’s always a sense of excitement when you start a new season.

“If this squad can produce what I know they’re capable of, I know we’ve a great chance of picking up a win.”

Their recent record against Glasgow isn’t great he admitted, acknowledging that the Warriors have a very strong side, but Friend firmly believes Connacht can start the season on a high note.

It’s vital to pick up wins at home in the PRO14 Friend added, and they are hoping to rack up two wins in the opening two weeks.

CONNACHT RUGBY SQUAD V GLASGOW WARRIORS
Saturday 3rd October @ The Sportsground (k/o 5.15pm)

Number, Name, Caps
15. John Porch (18)
14. Peter Sullivan (1)
13. Tom Farrell (58)
12. Bundee Aki (101)
11. Alex Wootton (1)
10. Jack Carty (140)
9. Kieran Marmion (167)
1. Denis Buckley (179)
2. Dave Heffernan (130)
3. Finlay Bealham (142)
4. Gavin Thornbury (39)
5. Quinn Roux (101)
6. Jarrad Butler (56) CAPTAIN
7. Conor Oliver (2)
8. Paul Boyle (40)

16. Jonny Murphy (7)
17. Jordan Duggan (1)
18. Jack Aungier (1)
19. Niall Murray (7)
20. Seán Masterson (3)
21. Caolin Blade (112)
22. Conor Fitzgerald (24)
23. Sammy Arnold (1)

Connacht Hospitality Group Sleeping Out for Simon homelessness services

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Galway Daily life & style Connacht Hospitality Group Sleeping Out for Simon homelessness services

Every year, the Galway Simon Community holds and annual Sleep Out that asks people of all stripes to give up their comfy beds for a night to help raise funds for their homelessness prevention services.

This is a major event that serves as one of the crucial fundraising activities for the Simon Community’s efforts to keep people off the streets.

This year, the Sleep Out can’t go ahead in its typical fashion, but people are still taking part in a virtual event by bedding down in their back garden, or living room floor, to show solidarity and raise funds at a time when charity’s like the Simon Community are in greater demand than ever before, but also are having a harder time fundraising due to COVID-19 restrictions.

This Friday, October 2 membber of the leadership team at the Connacht Hospitality Group, Peter Fitzgerald, Paul Fitzgerald, John Carmody, Wayne Neilon, Brian Lynch, Sarah Comer, Jacqueline O Dowd, Eveanna Ryan and Niall Beatty are giving up their usual comforts to spend the night in a sleeping out in solidarity with those facing homelessness during this critical time of need.

Wayne Neilon Group General Manager said that every walk of life has been affected by the pandemic, and it has hit the hospitality industry in particular.

“However as a family owned local business we believe that it is more important that ever to support local charities. The Simon Community provide a critical service throughout Galway and tonight is an opportunity to show solidarity with those faced with the blight of homelessness.”

“I would like to thank those who have donated to date and urge anyone in a position to contribute to please do,” he said.

For the Galway Simon Community it has been an immensely challenging time as they continue to work tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable individuals and families in our community from the risks of homelessness – and from Covid-19.

Before the pandemic, the services were already stretched more than ever in their 40-year history, and with an inevitable economic crisis looming, they are bracing themselves for an even bigger increase in the demand over the coming months.

All through this week, Simon Communities have been campaigning for the government to Stop Homelessness Before it Starts, with ring fenced funding for the 2021 budget, and a guarantee that half of all new social housing units are one and two bed units.

“In the West of Ireland and across the country, there has been hugely positive work going on throughout Covid-19 and we believe we have an opportunity now to build on this collaborative work,” said Galway Simon CEO Karen Golden.

“We must redouble our collective efforts to prevent more people from having to enter Emergency Accommodation over the Winter months, when the usual challenges relating to weather will be compounded by Covid-19.”

“Now more than ever, it is essential that people have somewhere to call home to ensure their safety and wellbeing.”

Donations to the Sleep Out event by the Connacht Hospitality Group can be made here.

100% of proceeds of this will go directly towards safeguarding Galway Simon’s essential Homelessness Prevention Services during this critical time of need.

Violent robbery saw man attacked with hammer and litter picker

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Galway Daily courts

A young man received a four and a half year prison sentence for his part in a violent robbery where a group of youths attacked a man.

Husley Falcao, with an address at Clybaun Road, Knocknacarra, pleaded guilty to a single count of robbery at Galway Circuit Court.

The young man, who is 19 now but was 17 at the time of the offence, was one of a group of five or six youths who attacked and robbed Shane Diskin in Knocknacarra last year.

Detective John Horkin told the court that on August 19 of 2018, the injured party was finishing up his shift as a caretaker at Gateway Retail Park in Knocknacarra at around 8:30pm.

He saw a group of young people in the rear laneway of the retail park, and they then followed him into the rear yard and attacked him.

He was assaulted and knocked to the ground, and the group then attacked him with a hammer and litter picker which he had on him as work tools, and stole his phone.

After the group of youths left him on the ground, he eventually managed to get to his feet and go to the nearby Dunnes Stores, where he got help, and was brought to hospital.

During the attack he suffered injuries including cuts and bruises to his left eye, forehead, the left side of his face, his nose, defensive injuries to his arms, and a significant scalp wound.

Gardaí viewed CCTV footage from the area, and were able to identify Falcao attacking the injured party on the video, and several other members of the groups were also identified by Gardaí.

Falcao was arrested on August 22, and admitted to being involved in the attack and robbery as part of the group, hitting the injured man with the litter picker.

Three other people identified as part of this group were dealt with by way of the Juvenile Liaison Programme, but Mr Falcao was ineligible due to his prior convictions, which include five other counts of robbery.

Defence Barrister Mr Conall MacCarthy noted that while his client was pleading to robbery, there was no charge of assault on the indictment.

Mr Diskin wrote a Victim Impact Statement on how this event had affected, which was read to the court by Detective Horkin.

“After this attack, and to this day, I’m afraid to go to Knocknacarra because I’m afraid I’ll be attacked,” he said.

He spent three months on medical leave from work, and just before he was due to return to work, he was informed he had been let go.

He attended therapy the following year at the insistence of his friends and family, who were concerned for his wellbeing, and suffered from depression and suicidal thoughts.

The incident still affects him to this day, he said, noting “I feel unsafe if I see a large group, or if I’m walking alone at night.”

Mr MacCarthy said that his client has suffered from alcohol and drugs problems, and was a “menace” to himself and others during a “chaotic” year of his life.

He is currently serving a prison sentence on those offences which is expected to conclude in June 2021.

The other five robberies, which were dealt with at the District Court, happened in one “sequence of events” over a single night he added.

Despite a troubled background, Mr Falcao has the potential to make a positive contribution to society, Mr MacCarthy said, and his time in prison has given him time to reflect.

Judge Francis Comerford said that this was a very serious crime, but that the prospect of rehabilitation is an important consideration due to the age of Mr Falcao.

What was stolen during the robbery wasn’t as serious as the violence employed during it, Judge Comerford said, adding that the clear premeditation was also an aggravating factor.

However the judge noted that it cannot be definitively stated what injuries were specifically caused by the defendant in this attack.

He imposed a four and half year prison sentence, backdated to June 10 of this year when Falcao went into custody, and suspended the final year of the sentence.