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Picturesque cottage is an exciting renovation opportunity

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Galway Daily property Picturesque cottage is an exciting renovation opportunity

For a taste of classic rural Ireland, you can’t get any closer than a thatched cottage surrounded by green fields, and this one bedroom cottage outside Headford is a perfect example of how an old cottage can be made into a home for the 21st century.

The beautiful one-bedroom “Quarry Cottage” at Pollacullaire, Headford is bursting with potential from its incredible site, modern refurbishments, and room for expansion.

O’Donnellan & Joyce are giving people the chance to create their own dream home out of this property at public auction next week. 

Picturesque cottage is an exciting renovation opportunity

Built roughly 200 years ago, this cottage sits on land that once provided stone for building the church in Headford, hence the name, with ample green space on the one acre site, which is bounded by dry stone walls and mature trees.

But don’t let the age fool you, this home has undergone extensive refurbishments to make it fit for modern living, while retaining those qualities that make people fall in love with cottages, and leaving plenty of room for someone to put their own stamp on the property.

The main cottage has recently had its thatch replaced, so that roof will be keeping you warm and dry for a long time to come. Refurbishments made to the interior include locally sourced marble flooring, teak sash windows and underfloor heating.

But none of this has detracted from the style of the cottage in the least, with the original stone walls, and a cut stone fireplace fitted with a stove in the main room, which contains a custom made, solid wood kitchen and living area. 

The cottage bedroom features an open fireplace, on top of the underfloor heating, for keeping warm on winter evenings.

Galway County Council previously granted planning permission for the construction of a 2,200sq ft expansion to the rear of the cottage. 

But though that has since expired, any enterprising homeowner could seek to revive it with the council.

A modern designed extension would be the perfect complement to this historic cottage, giving any occupants the best of both worlds between old world style, and modern comfort.

The state of the art extension was already architecturally designed, and gives a clear visual indication of just how special this home could become with some work. 

Along with the main cottage, this property also includes a separate, block-built mews building, which is outfitted with a kitchenette, bathroom, storage cupboard, and living area, which is ripe for refurbishment.

While the mews is already habitable, it would benefit from some upgrades, and there is plenty of room for any homeowner to shape it to fit their vision with a fully furnished interior.

A stone storage shed on the site provides yet another opportunity for renovation for a homeowner who wants more space.

The property is also located within walking distance of all the amenities of Headford, including the local creche, primary and secondary schools, as well as shops and pubs, making it a perfect place for a family outside the bustle of the city.

To see more of this wonderful cottage, check it out on O’Donnellan & Joyce Auctioneers website at odonnjoyce.com/residential/brochure/quarry-cottage-pollacullaire-headford-galway/4402473.

Viewings of this property are available by appointment on Sundays & Wednesdays. Call 091 564 212 to book your time slot.

September Auction

O’Donnellan & Joyce’s next public auction will take place on Friday, September 18 at the Harbour Hotel, New Dock Road, in Galway City, starting from 12pm.

To see the incredible homes and other properties in Galway and around the country that could be yours, consult the auction catalogue at odonnjoyce.com/auction/properties/3785.

There are 28 properties on the block in Galway city and in towns, villages and rural areas around the county including apartments, houses, and three former Garda Stations.

Register now to bid by phone, internet or via proxy. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, no in person attendance will be allowed, but this auction will be live streamed through O’Donnellan & Joyce’s website and social media channels.

NUI Galway Students’ Union launches plan to help connect students

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Emma Sweeney (NUIG Students’ Union Vice- President/Education Officer), Pádraic Toomey (NUIG Students’ Union President) and Róisín Nic Lochlainn (NUIG Students’ Union Vice President/Welfare and Equality Officer)

NUI Galway Students’ Union has launched plans today which will help students connect with each other in what will be an unusual academic year due to Covid-19.

The plan allows students to get involved with the work of the Students’ Union during the year, while also having a chance to make friends on campus and build connections all the time adhering to social distancing.

Online and socially distant offline options are also included, which can be adapted to whichever government guidelines are in place at the time.

The strands of the Students’ Union plan

1. Charity Challenge – Each month students will take part on a different charity challenge to raise funds for the SU Charities.

2. Event Crew – The crew will organise events during term to give students a chance to meet up on or off line.

3. Class Representatives – Each class elects a class rep to be their voice.

4. Welfare Crew – The crew will organise campaigns on student issues such as sexual health, mental health and equality issues.

5. Elections – There are currently 5 Vacant Officer positions to be filled.

NUI Galway Students’ Union President Pádraic Toomey said that the Students’ Union is very excited to launch these plans to help students find friends and a sense of belonging at NUIG this year.

“This will be a strange year but we know that projects like our Charity Challenge will help students to meet new people, have fun and also raise funds for charity,” said the SU President.

“We are also very excited to elect more members to our SU officer team and our Class Reps this semester.

“So many students have become more politically active during the pandemic and the SU is the ideal place to channel that energy to bring about real change at NUI Galway.”

SU Vice-President/Welfare and Equality Officer Róisín Nic Lochlainn added: “We want to highlight these ways to get involved in University life to all students and their parents who might be worried that loneliness could set in when more lectures are online this year.

“Along with the Welfare and Events Crew there are lots of support systems available for students including our own CÉIM peer learning programming.

“NUIG Sports Clubs, Student Societies and the ALIVE Volunteering programme will also be working to ensure students have as many chances as possible to make connections outside of lectures.”

 

Galway Weather | Sunshine & 22°C forecast for this week!

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galway weather galway daily met eireann forecast city county

Sunshine and temperatures of up to 22 degrees are forecast this week – and this weekend could be one of the nicest in months.

But before the sunnier weather later this week, there is some rain on its way today and tomorrow.

MONDAY, 14th

Today (Monday) will be warm and humid across Galway, with light rain developing in the afternoon across much of the county by the afternoon.

It will be mostly cloudy, but there could be some brighter spells in East Galway.

Highest temperatures: 18 to 20 degrees.

TUESDAY, 15th

Tuesday will be warm, humid and mostly cloudy with scattered showers in the evening after a mainly dry day.

Highest temperatures: 20 degrees.

WEDNESDAY, 16th

Wednesday will continue mild with some showery rain in places in the morning.

But it will brighten up in the afternoon, and there should be sunshine across most parts of Galway in the afternoon and evening.

Highest temperatures: 21 or 22 degrees.

THURSDAY, 17th

Thursday may be slightly cloudier but there will be a good deal of dry weather and again, sunshine in the afternoon and evening.

Highest temperatures: 20 degrees.

FRIDAY & THE WEEKEND – 18th, 19th & 20th

Friday, Saturday and Sunday look set to be warm and sunny in many parts of Galway, from the early indications. Highest temperatures will be around the late teens to early twenties – and the settled weather looks like it could even continue into next week.

Follow GALWAY DAILY on Instagram,Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date with the latest weather updates and breaking news!

Boat runs aground at Silver Islands in the second incident in a week

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Galway Daily news Boat runs aground at Silver Islands in the second incident in a week

For the second time in a week, an RNLI lifeboat was called out to help a cruiser that had run aground at Silver Islands, by the Galway shore of Lough Derg.

On Sunday afternoon, just after 1pm, the Lough Derg lifeboat was called out by Valentia Coast Guard to assist with a 32ft cruiser which had run aground with two people aboard.

At 1.20pm the lifeboat launched with helm Eleanor Hooker and crew Steve Smyth, Doireann Kennedy and Chris Parker on board. Visibility was good, and the wind was southwesterly Force 4, gusting Force 5.

As the lifeboat approached Cloondavaun Bay, the volunteer crew could see three vessels on standby in safe water monitoring the casualty vessel.

The lifeboat boat rounded the red navigation mark ‘Juliet’ and, as the water level on the lake is currently lower than usual, navigated a slow, safe route to the casualty vessel.

Both of the people aboard the cruiser were unharmed and wearing their lifejackets when the lifeboat approached.

A member of the RNLI crew boarded the vessel to ensure that it was not holed, before a tow was set up to take it off the rocks and back into safe water.

Back in the water, the drives and rudder were checked and found to be in good working order, and both vessels made their way to Cloondavaun Bay Harbour.

This is the second time in a week that has a cruiser has run aground by Silver Islands.

The lifeboat had been called out on the night of Monday, September 7 for a similar incident, which proved trickier as it involved approaching, inspecting, and towing the boat off the rocks in the dark.

Also on Sunday, the Lough Derg lifeboat was called out to another incident where a motorboat was taking on water and in danger of sinking with four people aboard near Killaloe.

Fortunately, they were safely brought back to Killaloe Harbour by the Killaloe Coast Guard, who had arrived on the scene first.

 

image creidt: RNLI

High Court: Judicial Review granted of decision to deport Pakistani national

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Galway Daily news High Court: Judicial Review granted of decision to deport Pakistani national

Earlier this month, the High Court granted a judicial review of a deportation order against a Pakistani national and the Court then decided that that the Minister for Justice and Equality erred in law and in fact in deciding to deport her.

The case arose from an EU Treaty Rights application concerning the free movement of persons Regulations.

The applicant, a Pakistani national challenged the deportation order made against her. The applicant was widowed in Pakistan, and her permanent residence application was based upon the fact that she was dependent upon her brother whom she resides with in Ireland.

The State questioned the existence of the claimed relationship and a decision was made by the Minister that she did not fulfil criteria of a permitted family member.

A deportation Order issued against her in August of 2018, on the basis that she was not her brother’s sister, as was claimed, and it was claimed that a sufficient examination of her file had not been carried out. 

However, in seeking a Judicial Review of this decision, the applicant stated that as far back as 2015, when making an EU Treaty Rights application, woman and her brother had offered to take DNA tests at their own expense to establish the familial relationship.

This DNA test was later done in 2019, during the deportation process, and proved that they were siblings.

The Minister was obliged to consider her duration in this state, family and domestic circumstances. There appeared to be a lack of consideration of her nature of connection with State.

Insufficient regard had been given to humanitarian considerations and the decision lacked sufficient reasons having taken all of the required considerations into account. The Court held that there was a breach of her family and personal rights.

The Court found that the  Minister had erred in law and in fact in deciding to deport Pakistani national and the Court granted the judicial review. 

In making its decision, the Court noted the following: 

“For the reasons outlined above, the court considers that: (i) the respondent erred in law and perhaps also fact in making the decision to deport; (ii) the respondent’s deliberations in the deportation matter are inchoate; (iii) the decision to deport was unreasonable; and (iv) the respondent erred in law and perhaps also fact in failing to have proper regard to the provisions and consequences of s.3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, Art.8 ECHR and s.50 of the International Protection Act 2015. Though the point was not pursued at length at hearing, the court further considers that the respondent erred in law and perhaps also in fact in issuing the deportation orders without due regard for the welfare of Ms SH as a minor, in breach of Art.42A of the Constitution (and, if that had not been breached, in breach of Art.8 ECHR..” 

Sinnott Immigration Solicitors provide services related to many different areas of immigration law in Ireland including visa applications, seeking international protection, applying for Irish citizenship, or seeking a judicial review of a decision regarding immigration status.

To speak with someone at Sinnott about how they can help you with your immigration issues, get in touch via info@sinnott.ie or 01 406 2862.

Mountbellew Mart accuse Irish Water of dishonesty over new wastewater treatment plant

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Galway Daily news Water outages in Moycullen

Planning permission is being sought for the construction of a new Mountbellew wastewater treatment plant to replace the one currently next to the Castlegar River, which is proving highly contentious.

The plans are being heavily contested by the Mountbellew Regional Co-Op Livestock Mart, who accuse Irish Water of dealing dishonestly with them over the chosen site for the WWTP.

Irish Water is seeking a 10 year grant of permission for upgrades to the wastewater treatment infrastructure at Mountbellew, by building a new WWTP on land next to Mountbellew Mart.

The new treatment plant will consist of two Primary Settlement Tanks, two Trickling Filters, Two Final Settlement Tanks, and Sludge Drying Reed Beds which will cover and area of 868sqm.

The project will also involve the construction of a control building, installation of flow metering at various locations on site, and other works.

The existing wastewater treatment plant at the Castlegar River will be decommissioned as part of these upgrade works.

A pumping station will be installed at the site of the current wastewater treatment plant, to deliver untreated sewage to the new plant.

A rising main will be installed between the pumping station and the new treatment plant, and a gravity outflow pipe to carry treated sewage back to the pumping station.

“The existing WWTP, built in the 1960s, is overloaded and incapable of consistently producing a final effluent in accordance with the required discharge standards,” a planning report said of the need for a new plant.

It was also noted that the sited flooded on several occasions, most notably in 2009 and 2015, and is not suitable to keep using as a WWTP.

It’s estimated that construction will take approximately one year in total to complete according to a construction management plan submitted with the application.

“The exact order and programme of works can only be determined by the Contractor following appointment,” the CMP states.

“It will however be an objective and a requirement of the Contractor to minimise disruption to traffic, businesses, and properties within the village.”

A Flood Risk Assessment, Natura Impact Statement, and Ecological Impact Assessment reports were submitted with application.

The chosen site for the new plant is above the recorded flood level of the Castlegar River according to the Flood Risk Assessment.

Mountbellew Mart

There was one public submission received by Galway County Council concerning this project, from the Mountbellew Regional Co-Op Livestock Mart.

The Mart wishes for the county council to refuse permission for the plant, saying that Irish Water has refused to recognise their concerns about the impact having a WWTP next food could have on their business.

Issues raised by the Mart include potential noise pollution and the impact the WWTP could have on livestock, as well as the potential for the plant to limit future expansion plans for the Mart.

“Concerns as to whether a buffer zone will be implemented and whether Irish Water will object to any future applications for planning by Mountbellew Mart should they wish to expand their premises have been ignored.”

The Mart also accuses Irish Water of having had a “completely bogus process” for identifying and selecting a site.

“Each of the four sites selected (the mart being the fifth) were chosen, not for their suitability for a WWTP, but rather to align with a fictional process of elimination, to justify choosing the mart site.”

As to purchasing the site itself, the Mart claims that Irish Water “unilaterally” broke off negotiations, and said that their final offer was rejected. But this objections states that no offer of compensation was ever made in writing to them.

Irish Water eventually used a Compulsory Purchase Order to acquire the land, which was upheld by An Bord Pleanála last year after an appeal by the Co-Op Mart.

Mountbellew is identified as priority area for improvements to the sewerage system, with discharge into the Castlegar river consistently receiving a “Poor” rating.

Galway County Council is due to decide whether to grant planning permission for this treatment plant upgrade by September 29.

‘Deep-rooted structural flaws’ to blame for Covid hitting childcare sector particularly hard – ECI

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galway daily early childhood ireland

The Covid-19 pandemic has hit Ireland’s childcare sector particularly hard because of deep-rooted, long-term and structural flaws in the sector.

That’s according to Early Childhood Ireland, which published a report highlighting a number of concerns and needs related to the pandemic.

The report is based on qualitative interviews with a sample of the organisation’s members during the summer – and examined the impact of the closure of childcare settings, the effectiveness of Covid-19 supports provided for the sector, and providers’ plans for re-opening.

Among the key findings is the need for the Government’s Wage Subsidy Scheme to be extended to ensure providers can retain the current Covid-required child-to-staff ratios.

They also call for future government supports to take sufficient account of the diversity of the childcare sector as challenges faced in different parts of the country – the Overhead Payment that was offered as part of the initial package of Covid-19 measures did not stretch as far in urban areas as in rural areas.

Fast testing turnaround times for children and staff with suspected Covid symptoms are also needed, as well as with priority measures to address staffing challenges in the sector.

Finally, staffing remains a serious issue, and sourcing replacement and cover staff is likely to pose a huge challenge in the context of Covid, according to the organisation.

Commenting on the report, Director of Policy with Early Childhood Ireland Frances Byrne said that prior to COVID-19, Ireland’s childcare sector was already struggling because of ‘deep-rooted, long-term and structural flaws’.

“Chronic under-investment has resulted in a system where staff are poorly paid and, consequentially, staff retention levels are low; providers are under constant pressure; and parents feel they have limited choice,” she said.

“Our sector was already struggling, so Covid-19 really hit it a body blow. Indeed, the special measures introduced by government for the childcare sector in recent months amount to an admission that our sector cannot operate like other parts of the economy. Now, to address this fact, additional funding must be made available on a sustained basis.

“Covid-19 not only revealed the deep-seated flaws within childcare, but also the extent to which the entire nation is dependent on a properly-functioning childcare sector.

“We cannot reboot our economy and get parents properly back to work without having a fully-functioning childcare system. And we will never have a truly effective childcare system while public investment in the sector remains so low.”

She said that Ireland is still bottom of the league in Europe in terms of childcare investment and that rather than taking a patchy, piecemeal approach to addressing the issue, the Government needs to ‘seize the opportunity in Budget 2021’ to reverse this trend.

“They need to commit to significantly increased levels of investment to ensure our fragile childcare system can recover, not only from the wounds inflicted by the Covid pandemic, but from years and years of neglect,” added Frances Byrne.

Football Club Championship semi-final draws

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Galway Daily sport Planning refused again for Oughterard sports facilities

The sides have been chosen for the Galway Club Football Championship semi-finals after the events of the quarter-finals last weekend.

In the Senior Championship, Maigh Cuilinn will face off against the Tuam Stars, and Mountbellew Moylough have been matched against Corofin.

At the Intermediate level, Killererin and Kilkerrin-Clonberne will go head to head, and Dunmore MacHales will face Cortoon-Shamrocks.

In Intermediate Relegation, and fighting for survival, are Corofin v St Gabriels and Williamstown v Carna Caiseal.

No dates have been announced for these games by Galway GAA as of yet.

The quarter-finals of the Claregalway Hotel Senior and Intermediate Football Club Championships took place last weekend over Saturday and Sunday.

The Intermediate teams faced off at Tuam Stadium, while the Senior clubs battled it out at the same time in Pearse Stadium in Galway City.

People urged to consider setting up a co-op

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galway daily icos co-operative
Photo Chris Bellew /Fennell Photography .

People across the country have been asked to consider setting up co-operatives as part of a plan to recover businesses and the economy.

Minister Robert Troy and the Irish Co-Operative Society urged entrepreneurs, innovators and communities to consider the option as a new online guide on how to start a co-op was launched.

The guide features a description of some of the sectors in the economy that are ripe for the development of co-operatives, as well as a straightforward roadmap on how to approach setting up a co-operative business – including planning, commercial feasibility and membership enlistment.

Minister Troy said that he is fully aware of the continuing importance of the co-operative movement throughout Ireland, particularly to local and rural communities.

“This is particularly important in these current challenging times and I look forward to the co-operative movement playing its part in the ongoing recovery from the Covid-19 situation,” he said.

James O’Donnell, Vice President of ICOS and Chairman of the ICOS Rural Business Committee said: “The establishment of co-operative businesses, where members work together to back and support a mutually owned enterprise, is a successful and proven approach particularly during times of market failure.

“Possibilities exist in digital services, e-commerce, renewable energy, tourism, housing, sports clubs, media ownership, restaurant services including delivery, social care provision including homecare and nursing home provision, and solutions for the increased number of remote workers who will require adequate facilities to work as effectively as if they were in the office.

“New businesses could set up as a co-operative or existing businesses could collaborate with a number of similar enterprises to create economies of scale, provide a wider range of services in a more reliable, efficient and cost effective manner and, as a result, retain customers and stay in business.

Coronavirus: 1 death and 255 new cases today

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

There have been 255 new cases of COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health today, along with one new death in the coronavirus pandemic.

There have now been a total of 1,784 COVID-19 related deaths in Ireland, and there have been 30,985 confirmed coronavirus cases in the state.

At least one of the cases reported today is in Galway, as NPHET reports 31 across counties Carlow, Cork, Galway, Kerry, Laois, Longford, Louth, Mayo, Meath, Offaly, Tipperary, Westmeath and Wexford.

However, more specific data on exactly how many of those are in Galway is not available at this time.

The latest total for Galway, including those figures reported yesterday, shows 561 cases in the city and county.

Of the cases notified today;

  • 129 are men / 123 are women
  • 68% are under 45 years of age
  • 34% are confirmed to be associated with outbreaks or are close contacts of a confirmed case
  • 69 cases have been identified as community transmission
  • 156 in Dublin, 22 in Waterford,13 in Donegal, 11 in Wicklow, 9 in Limerick, 8 in Kildare, 5 in Clare and the remaining 31 cases are in Carlow, Cork, Galway, Kerry, Laois, Longford, Louth, Mayo, Meath, Offaly, Tipperary, Westmeath and Wexford.

The HSE is working to identify any contacts the patients may have had to provide them with information and advice to prevent further spread.

The COVID-19 dashboard provides up-to-date information on the key indicators of COVID-19 in the community.

City Council approves Knocknacarra Lidl plans for the second time

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Galway Daily news Green light for new Lidl supermarket in Moycullen

Galway City Council has granted planning permission for a mixed use development consisting of a new Lidl store, and multiple other commercial units, in Knocknacarra.

This is Lidl Ireland’s second attempt to build a discount supermarket at the junction of Bothar Stiofáin and the Western Distributor Road.

The development will consist of a part one-storey, part two-storey building with a total floor space of 2,694sqm.

This includes a Lidl supermarket, a café/restaurant, a barbers, a nail bar, a physiotherapy clinic, and associated communal areas.

Lidl also proposes to have 87 car parking spaces serving the site, with vehicle access via a link road to the north of the site, connecting with Bothar Stiofáin.

Previous plans for a similar development on the site were approved by the city council, but struck down by An Bord Pleanála in May of 2019 on appeal by the Retail Grocery Dairy & Allied Trades Association.

The Board refused permission then due to the building’s design, with its “horizontal emphasis”, “limited height”, and “blank facade” being out of character with the area, representing a “monolithic and poor quality” development.

The Board also said that while the amount of retail space was “generally justifiable” for the District Centre, the proposed design did not create the necessary “landmark building” for the area.

This application was also objected to by RGDATA, which said there is no need for another discount foodstore in this area.

In this application, the planning inspector for Galway City Council noted that the building height has been increased by 10.2m at the roundabout corner, extending along the eastern edge of the building.

“With regards to a ‘landmark’ building, it is considered that the elevations the increase in height all contribute to the establishment of an identifiable urban edge design in a contemporary commercial/retail building,” the inspector’s report said.

Galway City Council granted Lidl planning permission for the mixed used development with a total of 17 conditions attached.

Over the Edge welcomes readers from the world over for open-mic poetry

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galway daily arts & culture Over the Edge welcomes readers from the world over for open-mic poetry

Over the Edge is continuing strong this month, giving poetry lovers in Galway a much needed cultural outlet, and using the online format to bring in guest readers from all over the world.

The next Over the Edge: Open Reading takes place on Thursday, September 24, on Zoom at the usual time of 6:30-8:00pm Irish time.

The Featured Readers are Fintan Coughlan, Molly Harris, & Ron Silliman, with an Open Mic for all afterwards, where new readers are always welcome.

Fintan Coughlan grew up in Mount Bolus, Offaly, but has lived in internal exile in Galway for enough years to eventually be adopted.

He has been writing poems for such a long time he can’t remember when the habit began.

His poems have been published previously in Salmon magazine, The Connacht Tribune’s Writing in the West, The Cúirt Journal, and most recently in The Galway Advertiser’s Vox Galvia. 

Molly Harris is the current Over The Edge New Writer of the Year. She is an MFA candidate at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and she received her BA in English at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Molly also studied creative writing at the 2019 NUI Galway Irish Studies International Summer School, and is the current managing editor of the literary journal Natural Bridge.

You find her short stories and nonfiction in journals such as Furrow, Hooligan Magazine, and Vagabond Literature.   

Language poet Ron Silliman has published over 40 books, including The Age of Huts, Tjanting & The Alphabet, the anthology In the American Tree, a collection of criticism The New Sentence & an award-winning memoir, Under Albany.

He has received the Poetry Foundation’s Levinson Award, been a Kelly Writers House Fellow, & the subject of symposia at the Universities of Paris & Windsor, and teaches at the University of Pennsylvania.

To take part in the next Over the Edge Open Reading on September 24, go to the zoom meeting at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7389013549, Meeting ID: 738 901 3549.

Anyone interested in taking part in the poetry open-mic should text Kevin Higgins on 087-6431748 or email over-the-edge-openreadings@hotmail.com between 6pm and 6:30pm on the evening of the reading.

€1,000 prize up for grabs in ReelLIFE Science film competition

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Galway Daily news €1,000 prize up for grabs in ReelLIFE Science film competition

Young people enthusiastic about science have an opportunity to support their school or youth group in the ReelLIFE Science film competition, on a topic of their choice.

NUI Galway is challenging young science enthusiasts and filmmakers in Ireland and Northern Ireland to produce fun short science videos for the innovative ‘ReelLIFE SCIENCE’ competition.

The competition offers primary and secondary school students the chance to win a €1,000 top prize for their school or youth organisation, with a total of €5,000 in prizes to be doled out.

Videos can be up to three minutes in length and can communicate any aspect of STEM on one of the following topics: How Things Work, Climate Action, Healing the Body and Science on the Farm.

Ferne Corrigan, beloved BBC wildlife and children’s presenter, is one of the panel of judge’s at this year’s film competition.

Commenting excitedly about the competition, she said that we are in a time when science is at the forefront of “massive, impactful conversations” about the furture.

“What is exciting is that it is this generation, and the next generation that will bring about critical changes and keep the conversation going.

“Science needs passionate young people and it is programmes like this that help to get it out there.”

Since launching in 2013, more than 14,000 young people in 450 schools and youth organisations in Ireland have taken part in the ReelLIFE SCIENCE programme, organised by Dr Enda O’Connell and a team of scientists from NUIG.

ReelLIFE SCIENCE is supported by Science Foundation Ireland’s Discover Programme, the Community Knowledge Initiative, the CÚRAM SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices and the Cell EXPLORERS science outreach programme.

Filming for this competition an be on smartphones, tablets or cameras and the closing date for entries is Friday, 23 October.

The best videos will be screened for the public at the Galway Science and Technology Festival on November 22.

“Science isn’t all lab coats and Bunsen burners and we need to make it engaging and accessible for all,” Ferne Corrigan said.

“I am so excited to be a part of the judging panel for the videos and I can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with.”

Hiker rescued from Twelve Bens during weather warning by Galway Mountain Rescue

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Galway Daily news Hillwalker rescued from Twelve Bens during weather warning by Galway Mountain Rescue

A hiker was rescued from the Twelve Bens mountains in Connemara on Saturday night after a hours long effort by Galway Mountain Rescue during a weather warning.

The hill walker got into trouble on the Glencoaghan Horseshoe in the Twelve Bens range shortly before 4pm on Saturday afternoon, with terrible wind and poor visibility.

A Status Yellow wind warning was in force in Galway from 4pm on Saturday until 1am on Sunday morning, terrible conditions to be out walking on a mountain.

Galway Mountain Rescue were called out by the Gardaí, and spent hours reaching, and rescuing the stranded hiker.

Visibility at the higher elevations along the Glencoaghan Horseshoe was down to just 1 – 2 metres during this time.

The mountain rescue team reached the casualty around 8pm, and treated them for exposure to adverse weather conditions, before evacuating them off the mountain.

“Our volunteers have successfully evacuated the casualty off the hill,” GMR shared in an update on the facebook page shortly before 11pm on Saturday night.

“Despite having to contend with horrendous weather conditions over steep, exposed and rugged upland terrain tonight, everyone has returned safe and well. Fantastic result all round.”

“We would like to wish the casualty a safe journey home and thank our colleagues in An Garda Síochána for their assistance in this emergency search and rescue operation.”

“Also, big thanks to the local land owners for granting us access to their land tonight.”

Galway Mountain Rescue said this incident highlights the serious risks involved in going out into “remote upland terrain” during a weather warning.

“Given the highly changeable nature of our weather systems in the West of Ireland, particularly in the mountains, we would strongly recommend due consideration always be given to weather forecasts and routes planning prior to venturing onto the hill.”

Shannon Airport must be supported Galway TDs says

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Galway Daily news Shannon Airport must be supported Galway TDs says

A groups of Independent TDs in Galway and across the west of Ireland are calling on the government to ensure that Shannon Airport is not abandoned by carriers.

In a joint statement, Independent TD from Galway, Clare, Donegal, Leitrim, Kerry, and Tipperary all said the government must act to ensure that Shannon Airport maintains connectivity with the United States.

It comes after recent news that Aer Lingus plans to remove their two Airbus planes serving the US and UK from Shannon, to regional airports in the UK.

Ryanair has also stated in the past week that it plans to close its operations at Shannon.

On top of the loss of Irish carriers, the US based Delta Airlines and United Airlines have said they will not be resuming flights at Shannon in 2021.

Galway TDs Seán Canney, Catherine Connolly, Noel Grealish, Denis Naughten, and Michael Fitzmaurice were among the TDs who put their name to the joint statement.

They are urgently seeking a meeting with the Taoiseach and the Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan to stress the need to protect the aviation industry in the region.

The TDs will also seek to meet Aer Lingus, Ryanair and the Shannon Group to ascertain what Government actions are required to maintain connectivity at Shannon.

Shannon Airport is a “key economic driver” across the west of Ireland, they say.

The TDs have echoed calls made this week by Ennis, Galway, Limerick and Shannon Chambers of Commerce and are calling on the Government to provide support packages for airlines who will maintain routes from Shannon Airport.

They are also asking the government align National Aviation Policy with Project Ireland 2040 in order to strengthen the role of airports as key strategic assets for balanced regional development.

“The airport supports thousands of jobs across multiple sectors and is also a key element of the region’s attractiveness as an allocation for inward investment,” the joint statement said.

“The loss of international connectivity would precipitate a collapse in the local tourism sector and prompt multinational employers to consider relocating.”

Galway hospitals encourage people to ‘Think Sepsis’ and know the signs

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Galway daily news Stents or Surgery? NUIG research weighs benefits in coronary artery disease treatments

Today, Sunday September 13, is World Sepsis Day, and Galway’s hospitals are using the day to highlight the global threat this issue poses to public health.

Sepsis is a life threatening condition and can occur when the body develops an infection which then affects the organs such as heart, lungs, brain and kidneys.

It affects approximately 15,000 people in Ireland each year, and can prove fatal if not treated quickly.

“Sepsis is a common time-dependent medical emergency which can affect a person of any age and can strike irrespective of underlying good health or medical conditions.,” said Helen Donovan, Sepsis Lead at Galway University Hospitals.

“However, early recognition and timely treatment can have a major impact and this is the message we want to get out, ‘Think Sepsis’.”

“Sepsis awareness is an on-going project to increase awareness for all healthcare staff, patients and the wider community.”

This year, Galway University Hospitals plan to use World Sepsis Day to highlight the issues during its dissemination of its recent Medication Safety and Care Bundle Clinical Audit results.

“This year’s World Sepsis Day will be a little different, however, Galway University Hospitals determination to continue to address potential risk to patients will hold internal education sessions for staff to highlight further the importance of prompt recognition of the signs of sepsis.”

“Posters and pull-ups stands emphasising ‘know the symptoms – save lives’ will be displayed throughout the hospitals.”

Roughly one in five people affected by this condition is killed by it according to the HSE’s annual reports.

In one case in Ireland that resonated around the world, Savita Hallapanavar lost her life at University Hospital Galway in October 2012 when she suffered a septic miscarriage.

Fidelma Gallagher, Group Sepsis Lead at the Saolta University Hospital Group, said that it is the world’s biggest health threat.

In 2017, there were 48.9 million people affected by this health condition around the world, and 11 million lives were lost.

Manifestations of septic shock are often the “final pathway” for emerging infectious diseases threats, such as COVID-19, Fidelma Gallagher added.

“Most deaths from sepsis can be prevented by simple measures of infection prevention, vaccination, clean care, and early recognition.”

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the growing issues that can seriously impact the ability to manage this threat, she added.

“The steadily growing threat of AMR contributes considerably to the enormous human, medical and economic burden of infectious diseases. Outbreaks in hospitals of infections with resistant microorganisms are increasingly common.”

Coronavirus: 2 further deaths & 159 new COVID cases

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Galway Daily news 25 percent drop in COVID cases in Galway hospitals

NPHET has confirmed that there have been two further COVID related deaths in the Republic, as well as 159 new COVID-19 cases.

Almost half of the new cases are in Dublin (75), while ten cases are in Louth, six in Cork, six in Donegal, six in Meath, five in Laois and five in Wexford.

The remaining 46 cases are in Galway, Carlow, Cavan, Clare, Kerry, Kildare, Kilkenny, Leitrim, Limerick, Longford, Mayo, Offaly, Roscommon, Tipperary, Waterford, Westmeath and Wicklow.

Sixty-five percent are under 45 years of age while over half are confirmed to be associated with outbreaks or are close contacts of a confirmed case.

The number of deaths in the state related to the illness is now 1,783 and the number of confirmed cases stands at 30,730.

There are now nine people with COVID in ICU and 52 people with the virus in Irish hospitals.

Speaking this evening, Dr Ronan Glynn said: “47% of the cases reported today are in Dublin City and County.

“For the people of Dublin in particular, this is a critical moment to address the spread of the disease in the community.

“Individual choices can make all the difference – reconsider your plans for the weekend, reduce the number of people that you meet and avoid social activities that involve large groups of people.

“COVID-19 is a highly infectious disease that can spread even when you have no symptoms. Remember, when you do meet with friends, family and colleagues, staying 2m apart is the best way to keep everyone safe.”

Sleep Out for Simon welcomes new community team for annual event

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Sleepout for Simon Oranmore GALWAY DAILY NEWS
Pictured in Oranmore for the launch of Sleepout for Simon were, Teresa Healy; Maureen Lynch; Niamh Hannify; Gearoid McInerney; Ailish O Reilly; Lily Considine Marcus Quinlan Anika Quinlan (4 yrs); Geraldine Grady; Jasper Quinlan (7 yrs)

Galway Simon Community has welcomed Oranmore-Maree as a new Community Team for their annual Sleep Out for Simon event which will take place virtually on Friday 2 October.

This year, the people of Oranmore-Maree have come together as a community to participate in the first Virtual Sleep Out, where they will swap their beds for sleeping bags for one night in a bid to raise awareness and much needed funds for homelessness in Galway.

Individuals, families, work colleagues, teammates, and community groups can get involved by pitching a tent in their garden, bedding down on the living room floor, or even spending the night under the stars in the office car park.

Tom Broderick, Chairperson of Oranmore Community Development Association (OCDA) said that this year has been a particularly challenging time for many people in the community – and that some of them may be relying on services like Galway Simon.

“As a community we decided to rally together and organise sleep-outs across Oranmore and Maree.

“We really want to encourage others in our local community to become involved and take part with their families and friends, and to raise vital funds for those experiencing homelessness during this difficult time.

“As the Sleep Out event will be virtual due to COVID-19 restrictions, families and friends can take part in their own back gardens,” Tom said.

Galway Simon have lined up an eventful evening including music, a virtual quiz, storytelling and mindfulness which will all be live streamed on the night.

A number of Community and Business Teams are taking part in this year’s event.

100% of proceeds will go directly towards Galway Simon’s Homelessness Prevention Services here in Galway, ensuring the charity can safeguard their essential services during the Covid-19 pandemic.

To register for Galway Simon’s Virtual Sleep Out, visit www.galway.sleepoutforsimon.ie where you can sign up as an individual or a team.

Water outages expected in Loughrea and Craughwell next week

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Galway Daily news Water outages in Moycullen

Homes and businesses in Loughrea and Craughwell will experience water outages next week due works taking place on the local network.

Civil Engineers Shareridge Ltd are carrying out water main connection works on behalf of Galway County Council and Irish Water next Tuesday and Wednesday.

These works are part of a €13.8 million investment in the Tuam Regional Water Supply Scheme upgrade, which is due to be completed next year.

The more extensive disruptions will be in Craughwell, where people will be without water from 9am to 4pm on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

These planned outages are to allow for water main connection works at the Seefin Water Treatment Plant.

In Loughrea, an outage is scheduled for homes and businesses on Barrack Street, Fahy Gardens and customers of the scheme in East Loughrea to Seefin from midnight Tuesday to 6am Wednesday.

This is to facilitate water main connection works at the Knockanima Water Treatment Plant.

In all instances, people are advised that it may take 2 -3 hours after these works have been completed before their full water supply returns.

Updates can be found on Irish Water’s Supply and Service website page, or by contacting Irish Water’s twitter account @IWCare.

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 Galway ahead of strong winds this evening and tonight.

The warning was issued this afternoon and will come into effect at 4.00pm today (Saturday). It will remain in place until 1am tonight.

Met Éireann issued the status yellow wind warning for Galway, Donegal and Mayo.

The weather chiefs say it will become “very windy this evening and for a time tonight with south to southwest winds reaching mean speeds of 50 to 65km/h, gusting up to 100km/h, strongest in coastal areas.”

Another weather warning for rain has been issued for Donegal for this evening and tonight, but this has not been extended to Galway.