Plans for 32 apartments in Murrough undergo substantial redesign

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August 3, 2020

A proposed housing development in Murrough, Galway City consisting of 32 apartments has undergone substantial redesigns after the city council criticised the amount of open space in the original plans.

K King Construction first submitted plans to the city council to build two four-storey blocks of apartments on a greenfield site just off the Dublin Road consisting of 32 units.

However, last December in a request for further information the city council said that these plans made poor use of the greenfield site due to “fragmented” public space that is mostly given over to car parking.

The council also said the there were overlooking concerns due to the height and proximity of the proposed apartment blocks to neighbouring properties, as well as a lack of a “safe and convenient separate pedestrian access”.

The city council also ordered the developer to carry out a Road Safety Audit in response to concerns from the Transport Department about a lack on information in the original application.

Single block of apartments

In response to the council’s concerns, K King Construction redesigned the scheme to consist of a single block of 32 apartments in a single, four-storey L-shaped building that has been moved closer to the Murrough Road and further away from adjoining properties.

The housing will be broken down into 12 one-bed apartments and 20 two-bed apartments.

A new communal open space has been created at the southern end of the site by the redesign.

K King proposes to have the site served by 34 car parking spaces and 68 bicycle spaces; 16 spaces for visitors’ bikes by the front entrance and another 52 in a secured shed to the rear.

A new pedestrian access point has also been added to the plans by the main entrance.

Galway City Council is due to make a decision on this planning application by August 24.

Tuam hospital and nursing projects left dependent on Children’s Hospital overspend

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Briain Kelly

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August 3, 2020

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Galway Daily news Construction work on Tuam Residential Care Unit to be completed this month

The future of funding for two major healthcare projects in Tuam is being left dependant on the perennially over budget National Children’s Hospital.

The HSE currently intends to begin construction work next January on a new Mental Health Campus for Old Grove Hospital in Tuam, as well as the new Tuam Community Nursing Project.

However at a meeting of the Regional Health Forum last week it was said that the overspend on the National Children’s Hospital could have implications for the funding of these projects.

The total projected budget for the Old Grove Hospital’s new Mental Health & Early Intervention facilities is €13 million, of which €355,00 has already been spent.

The Tuam Community Nursing Project has an estimated budget of €19 million, including a donation of €7.2 million from Helen and Joe O’Toole, with approximately €520,000 already spent.

Joe Hoare, HSE West assistant national director of estates, says that both of these projects have been “cash-flowed” in the HSE capital plan over the next several years.

But this capital plan has to be approved on an annual basis, he added, so any funding for work in 2021 won’t be known for certain until the October budget.

Mr Hoare said that there has been even more additional cots associated with the National Children’s Hospital due to work stoppages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Any increase in costs for that “will have to be taken on board,” for the Capital Plan 2021, he added, but said that he wasn’t aware of any reason why the Tuam projects wouldn’t proceed.

Mr Hoare was responding to a question from County Councillor Donagh Killilea, who said that he was “dumbfounded” at announcements that the project is moving ahead made by the last government.

Councillor Killilea said that these were “dangerous announcements” to make when “not one single euro” has been confirmed in the HSE budget yet.

He said that people in Tuam will be disappointed to hear this news and have been “misled” by past announcements.

There will be some additional expenditure on design and enabling works for Old Grove Hospital and the Community Nursing Project in 2020.

It’s currently expected that the tender documents will be prepared by late August for both projects, and that the works will go to tender in September.

Mr Hoare said that the current intention is to start construction work on both projects in January 2021, and finish the following year.

The Old Grove Hospital Mental Health Campus has an estimated completion date of January 2022, while it’s hoped the Community Nursing Project will be completed by May 2022.

Coronavirus: No deaths but new Galway cases reported

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Briain Kelly

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August 2, 2020

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

There have been no deaths related to the coronavirus reported by the Department of Health today, but 53 new cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed.

There have no been a total of 26,162 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Republic of Ireland.

The coronavirus pandemic has claimed a total of 1,763 lives in the state.

In Galway the number of confirmed cases has risen by 3 according to the latest data as of midnight on Friday, July 31.

There have now been a total of 498 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Galway City and County.

However, of the cases notified today, 44 are in counties Dublin and Laois alone, 6 more are in Kildare, and the remaining 3 are in two other counties.

Other data on today’s cases shows that:

27 are men and 26 are women
80% are under 45 years of age
45 are associated with outbreaks or close contacts of a confirmed case
4 cases have been identified as community transmission

The source of transmission has been identified for over 90% of today’s cases said Dr. Ronan Glynn, Acting Chief Medical Officer.

“This is a positive development in light of the number of cases reported over the past few days.”

However, he warned that in the past five days, the average number of cases being reported has been 47 a day, after weeks of declining figures.

“We all need to continue to adopt a prevention mindset and continue making good choices to protect ourselves and others while trying to live safely with COVID-19.”

“People are still susceptible, this virus has not changed. We know how to break the chains of transmission.”

“Let’s stay the course by physically distancing, washing hands regularly, wearing a face covering where appropriate, avoiding crowds and doing all we can to protect each other.”

The Cabinet is due to receive advice from the National Public Health Emergency Team next Tuesday, which will inform the decision on whether to proceed to Phase 4 of reopening the country.

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

Explore the possibilities of Circus this summer!

By

Briain Kelly

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August 2, 2020

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Galway Daily news Explore the possibilities of Circus this summer!

Galway city’s renowned non-profit Galway Community Circus is getting back to business, hosting summer camps this August.

Following the re-opening of the country, this vibrant local group are greeting the public once more with offerings in balancing, bootcamp and a range of circus skills, set up outdoors in a socially distant, friendly way.

If you’re craving some outdoors activity after months of lockdown, this is the perfect way to get some exercise, learn new skills, and have incredible fun in a safe way.

Galway Community Circus is an international flagship for youth and social circus with over 650 members who attend classes weekly.

The group believes in ‘Circus for All’, offering programmes for all levels of ability and disability at its headquarters in St. Joseph’s Community Centre, Shantalla, and working with partners all around Ireland.

Galway Community Circus was nominated by the City Council for the National Pride of Place Awards in 2019, and went on to win Most Creative Place in Ireland.

The circus is known for the warmth of its atmosphere, the ambition of its programmes, and the excellence of its youth work, which provides young people with a unique creative and physical outlet.

Following the government shut down in March, the circus ran an online programme, Circus@Home and an online circus festival (Mayhem, the Mayhome edition).

The summer camp programme is the first public interaction for the organisation since March and they can’t wait to get back to what they are known and loved for.

“Our members are the heart of our community and it has been a tough time for everyone with lockdown,” said Executive Creative Director Ulla Hokkanen.

“But we are glad to emerge with these offerings, aimed at having fun and embracing the magic that circus can bring to both the seasoned and the beginner.”

Families, young people and individuals can learn to unlock their personal and creative potential, through circus arts, in an environment that is fun and welcoming by joining one of the camps on offer.

For anyone who hasn’t tried circus before, it’s an innovative and imaginative learning experience where participants are encouraged to learn trust, confidence, body awareness and persistence.

No particular level of fitness is required in order to take part, and all are welcome!

Starting from August 3rd, summer camp sessions will run through until August 16th.

The programmes include, 2 day, 3 day and 5 day options and are very reasonably priced starting at just €50.

All sessions will take place outdoors, with individual equipment for each learner, and Covid-19 adjustments to the classes so that government health advice can be adhered to.

The full programme of activities can be found on the groups website: Galway Community Circus Summer Camps 2020 and bookings can be made by phone +353 85 111 7224 or online: Book a Place.

Galway weather forecast for this week

By

Michael Malone

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August 2, 2020

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

The first week of August is the first week of autumn in the Irish calendar – meaning summer is over before it ever began. But August and September have often been the hottest and sunniest months over the years.

Unfortunately, this autumn is starting as summer ended with changeable weather forecast for this week.

Met Éireann says tomorrow will be cool with a mix of cloud and sunny spells in Connacht and the day will be dry, apart from a few well scattered showers.

The showers will occur mainly near the west coast and temperatures will be around 16 or 17 degrees in the afternoon, in light to moderate westerly breezes. These breezes will turn southwest and freshen near the west coast during the evening.

Tuesday will be warmer in Galway, with temperatures of 18 degrees forecast for the afternoon.

But there will be scattered showers throughout the day, turning to light persistent rain in the evening and this will continue through the night.

Tuesday night’s rain will ease on Wednesday morning or early afternoon and the early evening will be mainly dry across the West. Temperatures will remain mostly the same as Tuesday, around 17 degrees.

Early indications for Thursday and Friday are that they will be warmer days, but there is very little sunshine forecast. Thursday looks like it will be mostly dry – while Friday will see showers with temperatures in the early 20s.

Public consultations this month for Athlone to Ballinasloe cycleway proposal

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Briain Kelly

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August 2, 2020

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Public consultations for Athlone to Ballinasloe cycleway proposal

Public consultations on the proposed Athlone to Ballinasloe Cycleway will get underway this month to get people’s views on the proposal before any further study is done.

The proposed Athlone to Ballinaslo route is part of a cycleway from Dublin to Galway that runs for 270km.

The project team is seeking public engagement before it undertakes environmental studies and detailed design.

A planning application to An Bord Pleanala is expected to be submitted in about 3 years.

The project is being spearheaded by Transport Infrastructure Ireland and local authorities in Galway, Roscommon and Westmeath.

“The benefits of greenways and cycleways can be seen in other locations across the country,” said Galway Senator Aisling Dolan, who is urging people to participate in the consultation.

Senator Dolan says that where they have been introduced “businesses have popped up along the routes or existing small rural businesses have benefited and become more sustainable.

“The Athlone to Galway cycleway will only progress by consensus so it’s vital that the public engages with the public consultation process.”

The first public consultation event will take place in Athlone on Monday August 10 from 11am to 8pm at the Shamrock Lodge Hotel.

The following consultations in Galway will take place over the rest of that week:

Shearwater Hotel Ballinasloe – Tue August 11th from 11am to 8pm

Raheen Woods Hotel Athenry – Wed August 12th from 11am to 8pm

Loughrea Hotel – Thur August 13th from 11am to 8pm

Maldron Hotel Oranmore – Fri August 14th from 11am to 8pm

Information on the cycleway will also be available at local authority offices in Ballinasloe, Roscommon and Prospect Hill Galway city from August 17-21.

The project team is also willing to meet people by appointment from August 24 at the main office in Ballinasloe, or the public can engage online at www.galwaytoathlonecycleway.com

Permission refused again for expansion of Claregalway quarry

By

Briain Kelly

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August 2, 2020

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Galway Daily news Planning approval sought to reopen quarry near Tuam

Planning permission has been refused once again for the expansion of extraction works from a quarry at Ardgaineen Claregalway after heavy local opposition.

Harrington Concrete & Quarries sought a five year permission to extract rock from a 4.35 hectare site down to a dept of 5m using using explosives.

Material extracted from the quarry would have been transported to an existing crushing and screening plant for processing into aggregates.

Galway County Council received 44 public submissions related to project, all of which were objections.

Locals were concerned about potential danger to road users and pedestrians from the increased HGV traffic, pollution from dust and other materials thrown up by the quarry, and damage to property from blasting vibrations.

In refusing permission for the expansion of the quarry, Galway County Council cited the local road network as being inadequate for the increased level of vehicle traffic expected, and the effect that the operation of the quarry would have on local residents.

The local road is “deficient in terms of its width, composition, alignment and overall carrying capacity to serve a development of the nature and scale proposed,” the council said.

Granting permission for the development would therefore “endanger public safety by reason of traffic hazard and obstruction of road users” and would “have a detrimental impact on the capacity, safety, or operational efficiency of the local and national road network in the vicinity of the site”.

The council also said that based on the submissions it has received it wasn’t satisfied that the quarry wouldn’t “endanger the health and safety of persons occupying the site or adjoining the site and immediate surrounds and serious injure the amenities of property in the vicinity” due to the intensification of dust and noise from the site.

This is the second time Harrington has had expansion plans for the quarry at Ardgaineen rejected, after a very similar application was refused in June of 2019.

Those plans were for a 25 year permission for extraction at the same location, and received over 80 objections from the local area.

Lucky Galway player wins over €200k lotto prize

By

Briain Kelly

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August 2, 2020

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Galway daily news galway syndicate claims 133,000 euro prize

One lucky Galway player scooped over €200,000 in Saturday night’s Lotto draw.

There was no winner of the €5.4 million grand prize, but one Galway player took home €207,000 by matching five numbers and the bonus ball.

The six numbers in the draw were 38, 14, 27, 33, 4, 23 and the bonus number was 43.

A Galway #Lotto player has won €207,500 on last night’s draw after matching 5 numbers and the bonus ball! 🤩#ItCouldBeYou pic.twitter.com/07SsiDMuDd

— The Irish National Lottery (@NationalLottery) August 2, 2020

The Lotto plus Raffle also saw 108 players share in the €1 million pot, winning €9,759 each.

Coronavirus: No deaths today, but 45 new cases confirmed

By

Briain Kelly

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August 1, 2020

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

There were no deaths related to COVID-19 reported by the National Public Health Emergency Team today, but 45 new cases of coronavirus have been confirmed.

There have now been 26,109 confirmed cases in the Republic of Ireland, and 1,763 lives have been lost to the coronavirus in the state.

In Galway the number of cases remained the same at 495 according to data as of midnight on Thursday, July 30.

Validation of data at the HPSC has resulted in the denotification of 1 confirmed case, which is reflected in the national tally.

“Over the last five days we have seen an average of 44 cases a day,” said Dr Ronan Glynn, Acting Chief Medical Officer.

“This trend is clearly concerning and now is the time to ensure you and your families are making every effort to keep each other safe.”

He emphasised that gatherings should be kept to a minimum, with no more than 10 people invited to a house, and house parties should be avoided altogether.

“Restaurants must enforce a limit of 50 people, including staff, on their premises at any one time,” Dr Glynn said.

Workplaces should review their procedures and protocols for operating with COVID-19 guidelines in place, and people should avoid congregated areas, or places where safety precautions are not in place.

“Wash your hands regularly, carry hand sanitiser and wear a face covering where appropriate.”

“Ensure you isolate immediately if you experience any flu like symptoms,” Dr Glynn concluded.

Of the cases notified today:

23 are men and 22 are women
77% are under 45 years of age (50% aged 25 – 44 years)
9 cases are located in Limerick, 8 in Kildare, 7 in Mayo, 6 in Cavan, 4 in Dublin with the remainder spread across 5 other counties
18 are associated with outbreaks or close contacts of a confirmed case
12 cases have been identified as community transmission

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

Plans submitted for Doughiska housing development

By

Briain Kelly

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August 1, 2020

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Galway daily news Knocknacarra social housing

Plans have been submitted to Galway City Council for a new housing estate in Doughiska consisting of 21 terraced and semi-detached houses.

Planning permission is being sought for the construction of four blocks of two-bed terraced houses comprising 19 homes, and 2 two-bed semi-detached houses.

The proposed development is located on a 1.892ha site in the established residential estate of Fionnuisce in Doughiska

Access to the new housing estate will be through the existing road network for Fionnuisce as the land has “the benefit of services and road networks in place,” the application states.

The plans state that this development will have one car parking space per house, and two bicycle stands with five spaces each.

The application highlights the “absence of and flood events/history, the nature of the site, and the level of variety of surrounding residential development, combined with convenient access to the city centre and neighbourhood amenities”.

Galway City Council is due to make a decision on this planning application by September 8.

Tenders issued for N83 accident blackspot realignment

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Briain Kelly

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August 1, 2020

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Galway Daily news Traffic disruption from roadworks

Contracts have gone to tender for the road realignment project at Twenty Minute Hill on the N83 which has been the site of multiple traffic accidents.

There have six major traffic collisions on this part of the Dunmore to Tuam road, and one tragic death in October 2017.

Galway East TD Sean Canney said that he has received confirmation that the tenders have been issued after receiving approval from Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

The tender process for the road realignment scheme is being managed by the National Roads Design office in Galway.

“This is a notorious stretch of road and has been reduced to a single lane with temporary traffic lights for over 18 months,” Sean Canney said.

He added that following the tender and evaluation process, work is expected to begin on site this year.

“I welcome this progress on this stretch of road which has increased volume of cars following the re-opening of the motorway to Tuam”.

Gardaí cracking down on drink and drug driving this Bank Holiday weekend

By

Briain Kelly

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August 1, 2020

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Galway Daily news 33 Almost 200 people arrested for drug and drunk driving over Bank Holiday weekend

Gardaí will be cracking down on drink and drug driving this Bank Holiday Weekend, after a worrying spike in drug driving offences this year.

This weekend Gardaí will be conducting nationwide checkpoints, with an increased amount of drug detection equipment issued for roads policing.

“Our job is to protect communities from drink and drug drivers,” Assistant Garda Commissioner Paula Hilman said, “It is totally unacceptable to drive if you have been drinking or taking drugs.”

“This selfish action endangers the lives of all road users, so we are very concerned by the significant increase in the number of Drug-Driving arrests so far this year.”

The number of people arrested for drug driving has more than doubled in the first six months of 2020 compared with last year,

There have been 1,216 people arrested for drug driving offences between January and June this year, compared with 591 in 2019. This despite a 70% reduction in traffic during the COVID-19 lockdown.

This Bank Holiday weekend Garda Roads Policing Units will be focusing on driving under the influence, whether that is drugs or alcohol, at checkpoints around the country.

An analysis of road fatalities between 2013 and 2017 by the Road Safety Authority found that, where a toxicology result was available, a third (35.6%) of drivers killed tested positive for alcohol. 9.8% of drivers killed had cocaine in their system, and 7.4% tested positive for cannabis.

Ms Liz O’Donnell, Chairperson of the RSA, said that since the introduction of roadside screening for drugs in 2017, the “true extent” of the problem has become apparent.

“We have a big problem with drug driving in this country. My message for drivers is to understand that there is no hiding from drug driving any more.

“The gardai can and are detecting drug drivers in increasing numbers on our public roads.”

Galway West TD Hildegarde Naughton, Junior Minister at the Department of Transport said that this data shows that there remains a “cohort of drivers” engaging in dangerous behaviour.

“The incidence of drink and drug driving during the Covid-19 lockdown period, when traffic volumes were at an all-time low, demonstrates the blatant disregard that some drivers have for the law and road safety.”

County Council urges pet owners to take precautions after increase in dog thefts

By

Briain Kelly

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August 1, 2020

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County Council issues fresh warning after increase in dog thefts

Galway County Council has issued a fresh warning for pet owners to take precautions after an increase in suspected dog thefts around the county and country.

There has been a recent increase in the number of houses being marked for potential theft of dogs reported recently.

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council James Charity recently reported that thieves are marking houses using chalk or a cable tie for possible dog thefts.

The County Council is urging dog owners to take precautions to ensure that their dog is traceable to them if is stolen or goes missing.

“Galway County Council are aware of the high numbers of dogs being stolen across the country at the moment and it is very distressing for both dog and owner.”

The increase in dog thefts has been linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, with more people seeking a pet while in lockdown.

“The demand for, and therefore the monetary value of dogs has increased sharply in the recent pandemic, with people seeing the many benefits of dog ownership, especially as they spend more time at home,” the county council said.

“Prevention of this criminal act is best achieved by responsible dog ownership, and having your dog safe under your control at all times, as is a legal requirement.”

Dog owners should have their pets licenced and microchipped, with the microchip number registered with your current contact details.

“Lost or stray dogs coming into the care of Galway County Council are always scanned for microchips, and if microchip details are correct and current, dogs can be reunited quickly and safely.”

If your pet does get stolen, you should report it immediately to the Gardaí, the local dog warden, your vet, and the company your dog is microchipped with.

One notable incident in Galway came when a litter of foxhound puppies were stolen in Craughwell in June, and recovered in Belfast along with multiple other dogs.

Get training now for the annual Croí Night Run

By

Briain Kelly

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August 1, 2020

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Get training now for the annual Croí Night Run

The much anticipated annual Croí Night Run is returning in October, but this year, like many major fundraisers, the event is going virtual.

Participants can run, walk or jog the 5km anytime throughout the day or on the night on a local route of their choice on October 9.

Last year over 5,000 made the run on the Salthill Prom, raising over €70,000 for the Heart & Stroke Charity based in Newcastle.

“We would love to be back on the Prom this year, but our first priority is to protect those that we serve as they are most at risk of COVID-19, so we are following Government guidelines and going virtual instead,” says Christine Flanagan, Croí’s Director of Fundraising.

“People living with heart disease and stroke need our help now more than ever before, so we ask you to please join us again this year virtually.”

The Croí health team have developed a 10-week training plan to help you get across your finish line, with people of all ages and abilities are welcome to join.

The Night Run Training Plan will prepare you for your finishing line by gradually building up your ability week by week.

Take on the Croí Night Run and make a positive change to your lifestyle and health.

It has been proven that regular exercise assists with maintaining a healthy weight and lowers your risk of developing heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Engaging in regular, routine exercise will also contribute to positive changes in your mental health and overall well-being.

Registration is now open at €25 for adults or €15 for youths over 12 years of age.

Teams are also welcome – for more information, please contact christine@croi.ie.

The event is once again sponsored by Evergreen Healthfoods, with 100% of proceeds going directly to Croí.

This year’s media sponsor is once again iRadio, who are creating an exciting playlist to motivate you on the day of the event.

Each participant will receive a goodie bag with a special commemorative Croí Night Run long-sleeve running top to wear on the day.

Learn more and register now at www.croi.ie/nightrun.

Coronavirus: No deaths and 38 new COVID-19 cases

By

Briain Kelly

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July 31, 2020

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There have been no deaths related to COVID-19 reported by the National Public Health Emergency Team today, but 38 new cases have been confirmed.

There have no been a total of 26,065 cases confirmed in the state, and the pandemic has claimed 1,763 lives.

In Galway the number of cases remained steady at 495 according to the latest figures from midnight on Wednesday, July 29, with no change from what was reported yesterday.

Today’s figures, while still high, mark a sharp drop from the 85 new cases which were reported on Thursday, the largest single day increase since late May.

Of today’s cases 26 are associated with outbreaks or close contact with other confirmed cases, and the vast majority, 32 cases, are in Dublin and Kildare.

“Mass testing has now taken place in relation to a number of known outbreaks,” Dr Ronan Glynn said.

“We may be beginning to see more cases which we cannot link to outbreaks or close contacts.”

The NPHET will continue to monitor this situation closely in the coming days he added.

A survey of GP’s has indicated that the vast majority of patients who had contacted them with COVID-like symptoms in the past week had not been self-isolating since the onset of their symptoms.

Dr. Ronan Glynn said; “The importance of isolating as soon as you have any flu like symptoms cannot be overstated.”

“Without this individual action we simply will not break the chains of transmission and we will put many people at risk of infection.”

“It is important that people know that there is no charge for GP or testing services relating to COVID-19. Please do not hesitate to contact your GP if you have any concerns.”

“This weekend, the six key things people need to do are limit the size of your network & time you spend with them, keep your distance, meet up outside if possible, wash your hands, wear a face covering and download the COVID Tracker App.”

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

Local social innovations responding to Covid-19 urged to apply to €5.5m Fund

By

Michael Malone

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July 31, 2020

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Galway Daily news Dozens of Galway City community groups awarded €272,708 in grant funding

Funding of €5.5 million has been made available to support social innovation projects across the country which are acting in response to the pandemic.

Rethink Ireland’s Innovate Together fund was established to support emerging innovations that address challenges arising out of the COVID-19 crisis.

Rethink Ireland is now accepting applications from social innovation not for profit organisations and are urging organisations to get their application in without delay.

Over 480 applications were received when Round 1 funding was disbursed in May, pointing to the real need for support among organisations at the frontline of Ireland’s social response to Covid-19.

Rethink Ireland has pledged to raise additional significant philanthropic funds and is calling on companies, foundations, families and individuals to donate to the initiative.

The fund was created with support from the government and private organisations – with Z Zurich Foundation being the latest private donor, pledging €500,000.

Minister Heather Humphreys, Minister for Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands said: “It’s my pleasure to officially launch the 2nd round of the Innovate Together Fund in partnership with Rethink Ireland and the Z Zurich Foundation which will continue to help organisations across the country who contribute so much to our society.

“My department has provided €5 million via the Dormant Accounts Fund so that as many organisations as possible can get the help they need to help to continue to support those affected most by the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Anthony Brennan, CEO, Zurich Ireland said that it is a hugely proud day for Zurich in Ireland.

“We have a unique and powerful opportunity thanks to the Z Zurich Foundation to deliver on our global community investment strategy and empower vulnerable Irish communities to better protect themselves from risk, and to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world, particularly to deal with changes caused or accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Anthony Brennan.

“Through our engagement with Rethink Ireland we are confident this fund will help to create a fairer, more open and sustainable society across Ireland.

“Together, by embracing innovation, we can find new ways to meet today’s challenges head on with solutions that better serve and protect people across our communities,” he added.

Terence O’Rourke, Chair, Rethink Ireland said that there is a huge need for support amongst Ireland’s social innovation sector.

“We have been really impressed with the quality and innovation of the proposals we got from every county in Ireland when we disbursed funding in May,” he said.

“While we’ll be able to support up to 50 of these 480 organisations thanks to this fund and its donors, we urgently need more philanthropic donations.

“This fund’s goal is to not only support these projects through the immediate issues and difficulties they face, but to also ensure their needs are addressed in a sustainable and long-term manner.”

He added that the size of the Round 2 fund will depend on the donations that we can secure between now and the end of August.

“I know that many companies have been busy managing their own issues during COVID-19, but as the country begins to open up again, I am asking companies and individuals who are able to do so to consider donating to the Innovate Together Fund – your donation will be matched by Government.”

Worst towns and areas for plastic waste in Co Galway revealed

By

Michael Malone

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July 31, 2020

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Galway Daily news Management companies must do more to encourage recycling at apartment blocks

A new study has revealed the worst areas in the county for single-use plastic waste, with Bearna topping the list of hotspots with 925 tonnes of waste generated every year.

The study by CUSP into the volumes of plastic waste generated across the city & county has identified 15 areas with high levels of waste.

It found that Co Galway – as a whole – generates 15,700 tonnes of single-use plastic waste each year – enough to fill 350 Olympic-size swimming pools.

After Bearna, Ballybane is second on the list with 794 tonnes.

Tuam is top of the list for Galway towns at 533 tonnes, with Ballinasloe a considerable distance behind that at 405 tonnes.

Galway City & County: Single-Use Plastic Hotspots
Town / Area	Current Annual Volume (tonnes)	Annual Reduction Target (tonnes) – UN Aligned
Bearna	925	65
Ballybane	794	56
Tuam	533	37
Ballinasloe	405	28
Loughrea	338	24
Menlo	311	22
Oranmore	304	21
Athenry	270	19
Dangan	251	18
Eyre Square	250	17
Castlegar	246	17
Salthill	222	16
Gort	182	13
Taylors Hill	180	13
Portumna	122	9

The table provided lists volumes for Galway’s top 15 single-use plastic waste hotspots. Also listed are annual reduction targets for each of the hotspots listed that are aligned to reduction targets set by the UN Environmental Programme (UNEP).

UNEP has set as a goal for its members the elimination of all non-essential single-use plastic packaging by 2030, estimated a 70% of current consumption.

CUSP (Cease Using Single-Use Plastic) is asking Galway households to reduce their single-use plastic waste by 12kgs annually – just 1kg monthly in order to achieve these reduction targets.

The organisation says that the hotspots, if given priority, could see significant reductions in the volumes of single-use plastic waste generated each year.

“We provide a free, user-friendly mobile app that converts your single-use plastic waste to kilograms to assist in hitting these targets,” said CUSP founder Simon Ruddy.

Public consultation launched for new city Speed Limits bylaws

By

Briain Kelly

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July 31, 2020

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Galway Daily news Speed limits reduced on busy city road for five months

Galway City Council has launched a public consultation on proposed bylaws setting new speed limits around the city.

The draft ‘Road Traffic (Special Speed Limits) Bye-Laws No. 1-2020’ have been published after coming before the city council earlier this month.

The bylaws would create four schedules of roads with a speed limit of either 100, 80, 60, or 30km/hr.

One of the most notable elements in the proposal is to create a 30km/hr zone in the inner city within Bohermore, the Claddagh, and Newcastle.

This move was welcomed by many with Councillor Owen Hanley saying at the time that this is “an important step in making our city centre a more welcoming place, providing space for pedestrians and cyclists, and supporting footfall in our businesses.”

At a recent meeting of the Galway City Joint Policing Committee Garda Chief Superintendent Tom Curley said that he would be “absolutely delighted” with the introduction of a 30km/hr limit.

The Chief Superintendent said at the time that reducing the speed limit was already being discussed to improve safety for cycling, and that this is supported by Inspector Peter Conlon and Superintendent Damien Flanagan.

Not all of the measures in the proposed bylaws would involve cutting speed limits, some areas, such as the N83 Tuam Road will see an increase.

The council is proposing to double the speed limit on the Tuam Road from north of the Castlegar (School) road junction to the city boundaries from 50km/hr to 100km/hr.

The proposed bylaws with all of their alterations can be downloaded from the city council’s website here, or viewed at City Hall during office hours until September 1.

Public submissions relating to the by-laws and speed limits can be made to the city council until September 16.

The by-laws are then expected to come back before the council for debate in October.

Ladies Day at the Connacht Hotel crowns Connacht’s most stylish lady

By

Briain Kelly

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July 31, 2020

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Ladies Day at the Connacht Hotel crowns Connacht's most stylish lady — Michelle Drysdale, winner of the Ladies Day competition at the Connacht Hotel

The Connacht Hotel was the home of style in Galway this Ladies Day, fashionistas flocked from near and far to take part in the Hotels annual Most Stylish Lady competition.

The judging team of Millinery Jennifer Wrynne, Make Up Artist Hayley Coleman and Blogger Kieran O Malley had the difficult task of selecting a winner from the stunning style on show.

Due to Covid 19 restrictions the event was Virtual with the Connacht Hotel’s photographer taking snaps of the stunning fashion which the judges poured over later to eventually pick a winner.

The Connacht Hotel hosted brunch in the newly renovated Bar Solo with the competition which offered an opportunity for Ladies Day fans to get the glad rags on and enjoy a stylish day out.

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Judge Jennifer Wrynne was blown away by the effort that the ladies had gone to, saying that the style brought a sense of normality to these strange times.

Fellow judge Hayley Coleman agreed that it was great to have an opportunity to dress up and spend time with friends while they watched the Races on the big screen.

The eventual winner was Michelle Drysdale who wow the judges in an stunning timeless ensemble.

Her dress was actually her Debs dress from 25 years ago which was taken up by Victorias Alterations in Craughwell, her shoes were Lodi, the headpiece was from Hats Life Hire Wexford finished off with a bag from Pennys, truly a worthy winner.

Hopefully the Races will return to normal for 2021 but the Connacht Hotel team excelled in making the best of a bad situation this year.

Dedicated phone line for Gardaí for the east side of the city would help local communities – Hanley

By

Briain Kelly

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July 31, 2020

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Galway Daily news Missing 17 year old teenager found safe and well

A dedicated phoneline for Gardaí for the east side of Galway City would greatly help with community policing in the area a city councillor has said.

Many residents in the east side of Galway City call the new regional headquarters in Renmore when they need gardaí Councillor Owen Hanley said, as it’s the closest station to them.

But once they do they are currently directed to call Mill Street station he said. A dedicated line for the east side of the city would help “bridge the gap” between residents in the area, and Gardaí.

“I raised this with the Gardaí in Galway and I’m happy to hear that they are looking at building the capacity in the Renmore Headquarters to handle calls from Eastside residents.”

Along with a dedicated phone number, the Social Democrats Cllr said “Communities in the East side need to see more regular community Gardaí.

“Patrols have increased substantially which is good, but in particular more Gardaí walking and on bikes would have a positive impact.”

Councillor Hanley noted that the Gardaí had a difficult challenge in policing during Covid-19 and raised far and above the occasion.

Gardaí in Galway need more resources at the community level in order help create safer and more welcoming communities he concluded.

The government recently announced plans to increase the number of Garda inspectors by 120, adding more officers to the areas of roads and community policing.

The announcement was welcomed by the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI), which said the increase is needed to support the new policing model.

“The Operating Policing Model marks a significant sea-change in the delivery of policing in Ireland,” said AGSI General Secretary Antoinette Cunningham.

“In order to meet the requirements of this reform plan, the workload at Inspector level will increase significantly as a suite of tasks will now be delegated to this rank.”

The number of Garda Inspectors will increase from 380 to 500 under this move, with Inspectors taking on many responsibilities previously given to Superintendents.

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