The make-up of the new Cabinet was revealed yesterday evening with the three government parties carving up fifteen ministerial seats between them.
The new Cabinet is made up of six Fine Gael ministers, six Fianna Fáil ministers and three Green Party ministers – but none of them are from Galway or Connacht.
In fact, none of the fifteen Ministers announced yesterday are from any county along the Atlantic coast from Donegal to Limerick.
Galway West TD Hildegarde Naughton (FG) will have a seat at the table though as Minister of State at the Department of Climate Action. She is one of two “super juniors” who will join the other Ministers, but won’t be able to vote.
The Fine Gael TD said on social media, “as the senior Government Minister in the West, I am fully committed to representing its interests.”
Her colleague Leo Varadkar is the new Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, and is one of six Ministers from constituencies in Dublin in the new government.
Cork has the next highest representation with three cabinet seats in total, including the new Taoiseach Micheál Martin. All three are from the Cork South Central constituency.
Elsewhere, Norma Foley (FF) from Kerry is the new Minister for Education, while her colleague Stephen Donnelly (FF) is now Minister for Health, replacing fellow Wicklow native Simon Harris (FG) – who is the new Minister for Higher Education, Innovation and Research.
Barry Cowen (FF) from Offaly will take over as Minister for Agriculture, while Paschal Donohoe (FG) remains as Minister for Finance. Helen McEntee (FG) has taken over as Justice Minister.
The Green Party has three Cabinet seats including Eamon Ryan as Minister for Climate Action, Communication Networks and Transport.
The Greens’ Catherine Martin will be Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sports and the Gaeltacht, and Roderic O’Gorman will become Minister for Children, Disability Equality and Integration.
A further six people have died in the Republic after being diagnosed with COVID-19, the NPHET has confirmed.
Twenty-three more people have also tested positive for the disease, bringing the total number of cases to 25,437.
Of those 23 new cases, ten are in younger adults under 35 years old, and eight are aged between 35 and 54.
No new cases were reported in Galway, so the total number of positive test results in the county remains 485.
Dr Tony Holohan said that there have been high levels of compliance with public health advice, and this has allowed for the further deescalation of measures brought in to tackle COVID-19.
But the Chief Medical Officer said that the age range of the new cases is “a real concern and a worrying trend” at a time when many people are reconnecting with friends and loved ones and may be gathering in larger groups.
“In recent days, for example, some cases have had large numbers of close contacts that have required testing and self-isolation for 14 days.
“COVID-19 is an infection that affects all ages and it is incumbent on all of us to take our individual responsibility seriously,” he said.
Dr Holohan emphasised the importance of keeping informed, keeping a two metre distance from others, following the public health advice on hand washing, and wearing face coverings.
While the number of COVID-19 cases has fallen dramatically in recent weeks, over half of those cases confirmed recently have been healthcare workers.
Of the 88 new reported cases between 13 and 22 June, 53% were among healthcare workers, according to the official figures for this ten day period.
This is a significant increase in the percentage of new cases related to healthcare workers – overall, one in three cases in the Republic have been those on the frontline.
Nurses and midwives account for one in every ten cases, and the INMO has called for the Health and Safety Authority to be authorised to investigate COVID-19 cases in workplaces.
To allow for this, the union is calling for regulations to be amended to confirm COVID-19 as a workplace injury which would require reporting each case to the HSA, which would then have a responsibility to investigate.
This week, the INMO wrote a letter to Leo Varadkar, calling for the changes to be made.
INMO General Secretary, Phil Ní Sheaghdha, said that the government needs to treat COVID-19 for what it is for our members – a workplace-acquired injury to be investigated.
“Many of our members are facing longer term difficulties as a result of the virus,” he said.
The General Secretary added that the union’s members are heartened to see the number of new COVID cases is down, “but healthcare workers are making up a greater share of new cases”.
“There has been a lot of discussion about figures and infection rates in recent days. The HSA should be empowered to investigate healthcare worker infection rates and find out exactly how the virus is continuing to spread.”
Nearly one in three of all COVID-19 cases in the Republic of Ireland have been healthcare workers and one in ten are nurse or midwives.
Almost €173,000 in funding has been allocated to organisations in the county, with Galway Traveller Movement set to receive the largest sum of money under this phase of the Stability Scheme Fund.
To help make up for the shortfall in funding during the coronavirus emergency, a total of €78,677 has been allocated to Galway Traveller Movement and €38,725 to Hand in Hand Ltd.
The fund also includes over €14,000 for Gort Cancer Care Support Group, and Tearmann Eanna Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta – services for older persons – is set to receive €40,536.
Welcoming the funding announcement, Galway East TD Ciaran Cannon explained that 179 organisations around Ireland will benefit from this funding in the form of once-off cash injections of between €2,000 and €200,000.
The funding is being given to organisations which provide “critical services to those most vulnerable in society” to help with short-term cash flow issues being suffered due to the pandemic.
“The COVID-19 Stability Fund for Community and Voluntary Organisations, Charities and Social Enterprises is intended to be a targeted once-off cash injection for organisations,” said the Fine Gael TD.
He said that groups delivering critical front-line services to the most at need in our society.
“I’m pleased to see the support it is offering to Gort Cancer Care Support Group and other services which are of huge importance to people in the county.”
Galway TD Michael Fitzmaurice spoke in opposition to the nomination of Micheál Martin as Taoiseach today as the formation of our new government continues.
Micheál Martin was chosen as the next Taoiseach to lead the FF, FG, and Green Party coalition government today at a meeting of the Dáil at the Convention Centre.
Speaking there this morning, Micheal Fitzmaurice started by thanking outgoing Taoiseach Leo Varadkar for his service in the COVID-19 crisis, saying that “a lot of the bickering went out the window” and peple rallied together.
He wished Micheál Martin luck in the years ahead, but said that he was opposing the Fianna Fáil leader’s nomination as Taoiseach.
This was “not because of you” Fitzmaurice said to Martin, but due to the Programme for Government, which he claimed would destroy “the fabric of rural Ireland” and remain undelivered after many promises.
The Independent TD spoke critically of Green Party leader Eamon Ryan’s comments that people will be able to walk to work .
“Tell that to people in rural Ireland who have to drive 20, 30, 40 miles to the cities”.
Fitzmaurice also pointed to the spread of COVID-19 cases in the country, which have been concentrated in urban areas, and said that it’s a “testament to the people of rural Ireland” that there were fewer outbreaks in these areas.
“The road ahead will be bumpy. But we have to look at the people and represent the people that have put their faith in us,” he said, criticising the content of the Programme for Government, and the “imprint” of the Green Party.
Fitzmaurice questioned “how anybody could vote for it that is from a rural area” and said that planning guidelines are making it impossible to build a house in rural areas.
“All I say to you Micheál Martin is, it’s an old saying in rural Ireland, may the road rise to you. But unfortunately the Greens have said there will be no new roads.
Eircom plans to replace ageing phone booths at seven different locations around Galway City according to planning documents submitted to the council.
The proposal is to replace the existing phone booths around the city with more more moderns ones that have a contemporary design and more functionality.
As well as their regular phone functions, the booths will also include a digital media display with an interactive Wayfinding/Mapping system to help people locate points of interest.
This feature can transfer a route to any chosen point to the person’s phone by scanning a QR phone, and is meant to enhance tourism in the city.
The modern design of the proposed phone booths would also make them more accessible to wheelchair users Eircom has said.
It is proposed to replace the phone booths at the junction of Newcastle and Costello roads, on University Road, in Eyre Square opposite the shopping centre, on Wellpark Road Upper, at the Junction of Bridge and Lombard streets, where Eyre Square meets Prospect Hill, and at the junction of Eyre Square and Rosemary Avenue.
Though all seven applications have been submitted to the city council separately, they contain the same reasoning for why public payphones are still necessary.
“Despite the growth in mobile phone usage, public payphones are still an important part of towns and cities across the country.”
“They fulfil an important public function in providing in providing access to emergency services; to charity services; to report emergencies and by the vulnerable to access support services.”
“Public payphones also provide connectivity for users who do not have access to a mobile phone or where mobile phone service is interrupted”.
The applications also noted that these public phone booths are required under Eircom’s Universal Service Obligation from ComReg.
Eircom states that while there has been a “significant reduction” in the number of phone booths around Galway City, there are still a large number of calls made through the ones that are left.
Galway City Council is due to make a decision on these applications by July 19.
The Galway City Mayor’s Awards 2020 winners were announced this week, with contributions to the arts, environment, and saving lives honoured.
The annual Mayor’s Awards normally honour the best of the city in April, but they had to be postponed this year due to the COVID-19 crisis.
Mayor of Galway City, Cllr. Mike Cubbard presented the top award to Cliodhna McDonald in recognition of her voluntary support for young people in Galway City.
“Cliodhna is a reliable, dedicated and enthusiastic volunteer who provides invaluable support to the Galway Special Olympics Young Athletes Club.”
“The benefits and difference sport can make to the young athletes in the club is life changing, and Cliodhna certainly embraces that ethos in her volunteering.” Cllr Cubbard commented.
“The importance of volunteering to communities has really come to the fore in recent months and I would like to sincerely congratulate and thank all winners and nominees for their dedication and commitment to volunteering in the last year” he added.
The full list of winners from this year’s Mayor’s Awards is:
Arts, Culture, Heritage & Cúrsaí Gaeilge Award
– Volunteers of Westside Arts Festival in recognition of their dedicated voluntary contribution to promote and celebrate the spirit and people of Westside through the arts.
Special Recognition Award
– Galway 2020 Wavemakers, in recognition for their time and services assisting in preparation for Galway European Capital of Culture 2020.
Residents & Local Areas Award
– Lower Salthill Residents Association (LRSA), for their dedication in leading and supporting the residents in Lower Salthill and the surrounding areas.
Community Service & Social Inclusion (Individual) Award
– Lorraine Lally, for her commitment to highlighting epilepsy awareness.
Community Service & Social Inclusion (Group) Award
– Claddagh Watch for their commitment to being there with support at a time when people are at their most vulnerable and in need of support.
Older Volunteer of the Year Award
– Joan Kavanagh, in acknowledgement of her many years of commitment in various different roles in all aspects of life across a wide range of voluntary charity organisations in Galway.
Environmental Sustainability Award
– Dan Clabby, in recognition of his dedication and commitment to improving the environment around him.
Sports Volunteer of the Year Award
– Michael Murphy, in recognition of his voluntary activities and dedication to West Utd FC Galway.
Children and Youth Support Award
– Real Action Kids Club, for their dedication and energy in recognition of supporting children who are living in Direct Provision in Galway.
Young Volunteer of the Year Award
– Jakub Kostanski, for his dedication in supporting youth activities in a number of roles including the Westside Arts Festival committee, Order of Malta, Galway City representative on the National Executive Council for Galway City Comhairle na nÓg.
Galway City Council Volunteer of the Year Award
– Cliodhna McDonald, for her dedication and support to the Galway Special Olympics Young Athletes Club.
Each of the winners received a beautifully handcrafted wood turned platter, decorated with the Galway City Council logo, made by Ambrose & Brid as well as a cheque for €500.
We’re a long way off from a white Christmas, but now is the time to enjoy a refreshing Rosé summer courtesy of Joyce’s Supermarkets.
Galway’s home grown supermarket chain have shelves stocked with the latest and greatest wines, beers, spirits and more to add a little relaxation and variety to these lengthening evenings.
With COVID-19 restrictions lifting, and faces that have become a distant memory in recent months popping up in your life again, now is the time to pop open a bottle to toast those little moments in life with friends and family.
Here are just a few of the exciting new drinks that Joyce’s are bringing to shoppers in Galway this summer.
Whispering Angel & Rock Angel
Whispering Angel, and it’s more sophisticated big sister Rock Angel, hail from Château d’Esclans in Provence. The light and elegant Rosé wines which flow from this sun kissed French valley could almost make a person enjoying an Irish summer afternoon believe that they have been transported to the Mediterranean.
The mineral rich soil of Provenance has given rise to two pale, salmon pink Rosés known for their complex character and elegant mouthfeel that pair well with seafood, or just with good friends sitting out on the grass.
Whispering Angel and Rock Angel credit: Craig Barritt/Getty Images for FMG
Whispering Angel is one of the drinks which has brought Rosé to new heights of popular recognition since 2018. A bottle that has often been hard to come by outside of high-end restaurants now more easily available on shelves. Its crisp citrus flavours linger in the mouth as long as the memory does, until they’re topped up by the next sip.
Rock Angel, the more mature follow up to Whispering Angel, puts down hard those malingerers who claim that Rosé is an adulteration of the craft that’s only for people who don’t appreciate wine. Praise for having a more mature, layered character, with a palate that calls to mind all the elements of a woodland; light herb and berry notes around a deep mineral core.
Invivo Sarah Jessica Parker
Invivo & Co wine makers and Sarah Jessica Parker have collaborated on multiple wines that will make a welcome addition to any table this summer, either paired with a meal or enjoyed on their own.
The New Zealand winery first teamed up with the Sex in the City star for the Invivo X Sarah Jessica Parker Sauvignon Blanc which came to the shelves last Autumn with a bang.
Don’t sneer because of the celebrity endorsement, the Invivo X received universal praise and took home multiple accolades last year. With critics lavishing acclaim on its rich fruity and floral character, bearing aromas of passionfruit and fresh cut grass, and a palate bursting with tropical fruit flavours.
Earlier this year it was announced that this would be followed by a Rosé made with grapes from Provence in France, home of the dry rosé wine. Described as “full-bodied with great complexity and elegance”, this pale pink wine carries the taste of summer berries.
The Invivo Sarah Jessica Parker Rosé was set for a June launch to come to store shelves and home tables in time for the summer sun.
Kylie Minogue Rosé
With aromas of fresh berries and white blossom, and a fresh, crisp palate, Kylie Minogue’s signature rosé is as delicate and refined to drink as its elegant, long-necked, curved bottle would suggest.
Serving as an excellent aperitif wine, or paired with fresh salted fish, this Rosé has been a smash hit since it launched in May to coincide with the singer’s birthday.
Made from a blend of Carignan and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from the south of France, this wine has gone to the top of people’s charts, much like the Australian star herself.
White Claw Hard Seltzer
Hard Seltzer is an idea whose time has come, and the only remarkable thing is that it didn’t happen sooner. The idea of sitting out in the sun, with a cold drink fizzing softly beside you and not a worry to be had, is an intoxicating one (pun 100% intended). But if the hoppy mouthful of a good beer, or the sharpness of cider isn’t your style, then a fizzy, fruity can of White Claw might be just what you’re looking for.
Flavoured seltzer water has been growing in popularity for years, basically sparkling water that comes with a fruit flavouring. It offers an alternative to soft drinks loaded down with sugar. ‘Hard’ seltzer is a small step forward for this concept, adding an unnamed triple distilled spirit to the mix to create a drink with the same basic strength as beer, but with a character all of its own.
White Claw currently comes in three flavours; Raspberry, Natural Lime, and Black Cherry. The brand itself is actually the child of the makers of Koppaberg, and emphasises more natural tastes than their extremely sugary mixed fruit ciders.
White Claw Hard Seltzer
Having first come to popularity in the United States, White Claw only recently started rolling out in Ireland, and Joyce’s have been quick off the mark to bring this zesty drink to people in Galway.
Find all of these delicious drinks and more at your local Joyce’s Supermarket today to enjoy your summer with style.
The deaths of an additional three people with COVID-19 have been reported to the Department of Health today, along with 11 new coronavirus cases.
There have now been 1,730 deaths due to the coronavirus in the Republic of Ireland, and a total of 25,414 confirmed cases in the state.
But in Galway there have once again been no new cases reported today, with the city and county total remaining at 485 cases.
“WHO analysis has shown the 7-day incidence of COVID-19 in Ireland to be among the lowest in the EU,” said Dr Tony Holohan, adding that this has been due to everyone’s collective efforts.
“However, we are witnessing new outbreaks across various countries as they ease restrictions and this reminds us of two things – the importance of adherence to public health guidelines as we ease restrictions here in Ireland and the importance of continuing to avoid all non-essential travel.”
Statistics from the HPSC show that, as of midnight on Wednesday, 3,293 people have been hospitalised in Ireland due to COVID-19, and 434 needed to be admitted to the ICU.
Of the total number of cases in the state 8,185 have been healthcare workers, and 11,576 cases have been associated with clusters.
Dr Siobhan Ni Bhriain, HSE Integrated Care Lead, said “Although the incidence of the disease is very low in the community at present, we would urge people who develop any respiratory symptoms to contact their GP as soon as possible”.
Today the government has launched its ‘Stay Safe Guidelines booklet’ which contains information on safe behaviours at home, work, on public transport, and in other scenarious.
Ireland is due to enter Phase 3 of ending lockdown restrictions next week, at which point the vast majority of businesses and amenities will be allowed to reopen.
It was announced in advance of that time that face coverings will be mandatory on public transport as capacity is set to increase once again, and people are being advised to wear them in shops and other situations where they cannot practice social distancing.
Councillor Mike Cubbard has been elected to a second term as Mayor of Galway City today at the City Council’s Annual General Meeting.
Councillor Colette Connolly was also chosen to serve as Deputy Mayor at the meeting, which took place in Leisureland in Salthill this evening.
Independent Cllr Noel Larkin was the one to propose Cubbard for the continuing role as first citizen of Galway at the AGM today.
This is the first time since 1967 that a Mayor has been chosen to serve back to back terms in Galway City.
“I am extremely grateful to the members of the pact for then agreeing to this but equally to members of both Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael who did not oppose my nomination,” Mike Cubbard said today.
“I am beyond proud to have an endorsement from the entire elected council and will again work with all of them to do my best for Galway.”
“Karen Cubbard and my boys are by my side as always as are my family, friends and campaign team. I will again do you proud.”
“Thanks to all my supporters in Westside and all Galway City Central.”
Mike Cubbard was the first councillor chosen to serve as Mayor under the pact of Independent, Greens, Soc Dems, and Labour which has controlled the city council since last year’s local elections.
Under that agreement Cllr Larkin had been meant to take over as Mayor this year, but a number of elements have cast doubt on that in recent days.
Earlier this week Cllr Mike Crowe said that Fianna Fáil’s councillors believed that Mike Cubbard should remain on “without conditions” for another year.
He also stated that they were against the nomination of Cllr Larkin.
The @fiannafailparty Cllrs on @GalwayCityCo having considered everything,believe it only right and proper that @Mcubbard remain on as Mayor for the next year. We support that proposition without conditions. Separately, for the record we will oppose Cllr Noel Larkins nomination.
People Before Profit opposed his nomination, stating concerns about his attitude towards travellers and immigrants, and organised a protest outside Leisureland today before the council meeting.
Galway City Council intends to waive fees for Tables and Chairs Licences as a measure to help the hospitality sector get back on its feet.
Restaurants and other businesses in the hospitality sector will be allowed to let customers back inside from next week, when Phase 3 of the roadmap out of lockdown begins.
However even then businesses will be operating at a reduced capacity, as they will be required to implement social distancing guidelines.
Licence fees are being waived for a total of six months to reduce the burden on businesses as part of the Galway City Council Mobility Team Implementation Plan.
This waiver covers 3 months where businesses were not in operation, and three months until the end of September 2020.
While the fees are being waived, the regular terms and conditions that come with the licence still apply.
This should even help businesses which don’t reopen before the end of September, as they will be able to seek credit towards their licence at the end of that period.
Covid-19 Temporary Licensing predominantly applies to those premises whose primary use is for the selling of food/ drink, which already provide seating and tables inside the premises, and on the ground floor, for the purposes of consumption of food/drink, and do not already hold a Section 254 licence.
Eligible businesses wishing to apply for a licence for tables and chairs outside their premises can now apply for a short-term COVID-19 Licence, with no charge for the duration of licence, a maximum 3 months.
This short term licence will operate until the end of September 2020. Applicants are required to demonstrate that public liability is in place, and must comply with the licence guidelines.
Applications will be reviewed on a case by case basis, with respect to the impact of the licence on neighbouring properties and the operation of the street; queuing of customers; and the safe passage of pedestrians and mobility impaired.
JCI Galway is helping businesses get a boost this summer with a series of online seminars to help them take the next step in realising their potential.
The Business Success seminars will address topics from podcasting for business, networking and LinkedIn to goal setting and sales.
Run by JCI (Junior Chamber International) Ireland, this fully online series will be hosted on Monday and Wednesday evenings throughout the month of July.
A superb line of top speakers and panellists across the business industry will be bringing their expertise and experience to you during these focused business sessions.
JCI Galway Local President Colleen Baxter says “Business is one of the most important pillars in JCI.”
“Many businesses have had to pivot their business plans and we hope that these webinars can help provide them with some of the tools needed.”
The full lineup of seminars and speakers next month is:
1. Wednesday, July 1 – Developing and Going for Your Career Vision
– Goal-Setting Workshop delivered by Dana Fuelles of Dana Fuelles
Coaching
2. Monday, July 6 – Learn how to build the perfect profile on
LinkedIn, generate prospects and Visibility delivered by Miles Duncan
of LinkedIn Success Systems.
3. Wednesday, July 8 – It’s Beyond Time to Rethink Your Marketing?
Panel discussion with Muriel Foley Founder and Managing Director at
MGF; Karina Collins, Marketing Manager at Clonakility Distillery;
Stephen Ryan, Founder Narration & 24 stories
4. Monday, July 13 – Promoting Your Business Through Podcasting
with Gary Kelly of GK Media
5. Wednesday, July 15 – How to start your own project and deliver
quality content with Verena Zimmermann, Corporate Sales Development
Manager at Workday
6. Monday, July 20 – Re-Adjust, Reset, Re-emerge with Your Finances
with Eoin Wilson, Certified Financial Planner
7. Wednesday, July 22 – How to create a strategy & optimize your
website to boost sales with Anne Conlon Anne Conlon of All About
Sales, and Lucy Reilly of Lucy Designs
8. Monday, July 27 – Networking Adapting to the changing work
environment with Andrew Whitaker, Founder & CEO at Culture Co-Working
More information about the JCI Business Success Series can be found at www.galway.org or follow @jcigalway on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter
The House Hotel in Galway City Centre has been granted planning approval to remove its restaurant and bar to make space for more guest rooms.
The plans submitted to the city council involve changing the use of the ground floor restaurant and bar to seven new bedrooms and one reading/meeting room.
Ranchwell Ltd also intends to add more dining space in the hotel lobby, along with an outdoor seating space in the existing yard
“The addition of seating to the existing yard to the south east will also enhance the reception area and create a secure outdoor seating space and garden area for guests,” the application states.
The addition of the new reading room opening out onto on the north east side will “bring activity to both the elevation and the street” as well as “allow a visual connection from the pedestrian footpath through to corridor”.
The House Hotel is a Protected Structure at Spanish Parade, which is also located within the City Core Architectural Conservation Area.
Galway City Council granted planning permission for the renovations with eleven conditions attached.
The vast majority of adults in Ireland would be willing to install a contact tracing app to help curb the COVID-19 pandemic new research from NUIG has shown.
The “National Survey of attitudes to COVID-19 Digital Contact Tracing in the Republic of Ireland” found that 82% of Irish adults would download a contact tracing app.
This research was carried out in a collaboration between NUIG, UL, and Lero, the Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Software.
Lero’s Dr Jim Buckley said that the response is “heartening”, particularly considering that research from Oxford suggested that if 56% of people downloaded a contact tracing app, it would massively help control the disease.
It seems, Dr Buckley said, the primary driver for people’s willingness to download a public-health-backed, contact tracing app during the current crisis is a desire to help others and “for the greater good”.
However, he noted, “studies in other jurisdictions have suggested that the actual adoption rate typically lags behind the take-up rate suggested by surveys performed in advance of contact-tracing apps’ launches.”
“Therefore, there is no room for complacency and eliminating the disease requires a high degree of participation from the public and evidence-based app development.”
This Science Foundation Ireland funded research also shows 51% of respondents indicated they “definitely will install” the app if it becomes available.
While 31% indicated they “probably will install” the app. Ten per cent reported they “may or may not install” the app.
However that’s not to say that people’s answers came completely without reservation, as many expressed concerns about privacy issues related to such an app.
The worry is others, including the government, tech firms, or hackers, would hold onto their personal data after the pandemic for other uses.
This is far from a baseless fear, as tech companies have shown that they can and will capture and retain data beyond what they admit to for advertising and other uses, and frequent data breaches have shown that such data is rarely completely secure.
It’s also a common aphorism that governments, once granted a power, even specifically for an emergency, are rarely willing to give it up again.
One third of people who responded to the survey said that they were worried that the government would use this as an excuse for greater surveillance after the pandemic.
Dr Michael O’Callaghan of UL said that “clear timelines on when this app would be wound down and how Bluetooth technology will allow information to be exchanged between phones are important messages that need to be communicated widely,”
There was just one death of a person with COVID-19 reported to the Department of Health today, along with 11 new confirmed coronavirus cases.
However none of those new cases were recorded in Galway, where 11 days have now passed without any new confirmed cases.
The coronavirus pandemic has now claimed a total of 1,727 lives in the state, and there have been a total of 25,405 confirmed cases.
Validation of data by the HPSC has resulted in the denotification of two previously confirmed cases today.
“NPHET noted today that over a third of new cases in the past 14 days are under 35 years of age,” said Chief Medical Office Dr Tony Holohan.
Of the cases which have been confirmed in the past fortnight, 7% have been associated with overseas travel, compared with just 2.3% of total cases.
The National Public Health Emergency Team is emphasising that overseas travel poses a risk of “importation of the disease” and could lead to further transmission in Ireland.
“Ireland has made significant gains in suppressing COVID-19. Our task over the coming weeks and months is maintaining these gains.”
Statistics measured as of midnight on Tuesday, June 23 show that 3,293 people infected by the coronavirus have been hospitalised, and 433 required admission to the ICU.
Healthcare workers account for almost a third of all cases in Ireland, with 8,178 cases confirmed among staff in the healthcare sector.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation chief Phíl Ní Sheaghdha clashed this week over figures related to the infection rate among healthcare workers and how many remain sick.
Dr Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, said “Considering the international experience with the disease, we cannot afford complacency.”
“Continue to be aware of the risks and follow the public health advice designed to protect individuals.”
An interactive map launched recently has revealed the location of confirmed COVID-19 cases across the county.
The Department of Health‘s updated data hub shows the number of confirmed cases based on electoral divisions across the Republic – and includes further information such as the number of COVID patients in ICU.
The map, which can be viewed here, confirms that Galway City has been most affected by the pandemic, while many electoral divisions across the county have recorded less than five cases.
The smallest red dots mean less than 5 cases were recorded.
For confidentiality reasons, the data is limited in areas where the number of cases is less than five.
The map shows that as of the 12th of June, there have been 25 cases in Bearna, 30 in Eyre Square and 27 cases in Castlegar.
At least six cases have been reported in Tuam Urban, while Loughrea Urban has seen nine cases.
The Department says it should be noted that a high proportion of cases recorded on the map will have fully recovered.
They also say that for some cases, their location on the map may reflect their place of work rather than their home address.
Cases by county, cases over time in Galway
View the interactive map here: https://covid19ireland-geohive.hub.arcgis.com/
Links courses are some of the most highly prized destinations for golfers, with their unique landscape and limited numbers, they draw visitors from all over the globe to Ireland.
Based in Moycullen, Co. Galway, North & West Coast Links is one of the premiere Marketing and Destination Management companies for the golf industry in Ireland. Now in its 31st year of business, they help create bespoke holidays for overseas visitors who want to experience the best of the golf world in style. Their customised tours help promote Ireland’s championship courses, and provide a welcome boost to local economies by bringing visitors back time and again, and drawing their friends in to boot.
Associate course members include: Westport Golf Club, Lough Erne Resort and County Louth Golf Club (Baltray).
Links courses are always in high demand for overseas tourists, and North & West Coast Links ensures that visitors to our emerald isle get introduced to these courses and get an opportunity to play them. The itinerary is not just about transporting them from course to course, but with full package holidays that include accommodation of every level, from the most luxurious castle to our fine hotels, tours or our great coastline, visits to distilleries, culture and heritage sites, our famous landmarks and other activities are included as requested.
John McLaughlin, CEO of North & West Coast Links for the past 20 years, says that regardless of the impact of COVID-19 restrictions, “we’ll be ready” with a céad míle fáilte to welcome golfers back to Ireland.
Globe Trotters & Staycations
North & West Coast Links has a strong international presence at some 30 plus locations around the globe each year. These include the prestigious PGA show in Orlando, Florida in January, The Honda Classic PGA Tour event in the US in Feb and the LPGA’s ShopRite Championship further north in New Jersey, now planned for October this year. The Galway company also attends many other trade shows in Canada, Germany, and Scandinavia.
There has been a dramatic shift in the way companies do business thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic and even though North & West Coast Links are no longer able to travel to tournaments and trade shows for the time being, they haven’t dropped their commitment to promoting Irish golf in the least. Getting back to basics has meant a lot of time on the phone, sending emails, zoom calls, and speaking with tour operators and journalists to keep Irish golf to the forefront of people’s minds as the world starts to reopen.
The company’s business is divided roughly 50/50 between customers brought to them through tour operators, and those they deal with directly. Through the period of the closure, North & West Coast Links have been communicating with their customers who were booked for trips from April onwards to help them reschedule their trips.
“Basically, we are trying to help them re-plan with rescheduling with that aspect being the big part of what we are trying to do, so the vast majority of our rescheduling work has been for 2021,” John McLaughlin says.
“The good thing is that the golf courses have been very accommodating and not just our own membership golf courses but golf courses throughout Ireland, as we do have some bookings throughout Ireland.”
For those who already had a holiday booked, John says that golf courses have been extremely accommodating, with most offering a 24-month window for people to reschedule their trip.
Enniscrone Golf Club, Co. Sligo
Tour operators, hotels, and all parties invested in the industry have been “working together in this crisis” to help keep things running smoothly. This is particularly the case with overseas tourists, which make up more than 70% of North & West Coast Links’ business, and require a bit of extra coordination among partners to help them rebook their package holidays.
Though the company’s original purpose was to market to International visitors, a goal it will continue to pursue, this crisis has changed the way people will be holidaying for some time to come. So, during these times when every booking counts, North & West Coast Links have been working hand in glove with their partner courses and hotels to entice Irish golfers to play this great stable of courses. With hotels and more reopening on June 29, they have been working hard to get people to pick from the region’s many incredible venues when planning their staycations for the summer.
Old club, New game
The months of course closures and travel restrictions have no doubt left many frustrated. Unable to get out and play 18 on the weekends in the case of local’s, or get in larger trips that may have been a long planned dream for overseas visitors, this has led to a pent up demand. The one advantage of time away from the course this lockdown has brought, is that returning golfers will get to see improvements and changes to many courses, with additions and new works completed.
Across the west and north of Ireland, and further afield, links courses have undertaken an incredible amount of work over the past winter. Work which was completed before the stay-home-period was given time to grow in during the time that golfers have been away.
Carne Golf Links in Belmullet has undergone a dramatic metamorphosis, merging the 9-hole course with the Hackett course to create a new experience. Evocatively named the ‘Wild Atlantic Dunes’ routing, this 18-hole course will be opening to golfers this summer. New golf courses do not come on stream very often so it’s exciting to see what this course will bring to the Carne experience.
In County Donegal, Ballyliffin has added a new 9-hole course, The Pollen Links, courtesy of architect, writer, and all-round renaissance man of the golf world Pat Ruddy. With his signature view that any good game of golf contains greater complexities than chess, this new course is a welcome addition to the club’s other two. The club has also undertaken bunker maintenance and added new tee boxes to keep the entire package fresh.
Both Enniscrone and Donegal Golf Clubs have been maintaining and improving and these two courses are in mint condition.
Portsalon have also been doing work on both their course and clubhouse, to provide the best experience during play and for relaxing afterwards. Baltray in Louth have re-seeded all of their fairways and undertaken a fresh round of bunker and tee box maintenance.
Castlerock has gone through a lot of work completing the second phase of their course redevelopment under architect Martin Hawtree. This course has changed dramatically and the new additions have elevated it on par with their neighbours. It does not take a massive change to bring a breath of fresh air to a course, as Portstewart has shown by removing the Sea Buckthorn from their course and adding new bunkers to change things up.
Castlerock Golf Club, Co. Derry
Royal Portrush have been maintaining all of the changes that have happened there over the past few years in the run up to The Open.
With the spring growth adding maturity to these new additions, and months of maintenance by groundskeepers shaping it all to design, these are sure to be welcome new experiences for golfers eager to get back on the course.
John is confident that the golf industry will rebound once restrictions are fully lifted, believing that there is a “pent-up appetite” not just to get back on the course, but to travel, and experience the many incredible locations Ireland has to offer.
The message, once again, to everyone is that Ireland is ready, and a huge welcome awaits our International visitors in the West, Northwest and Northern Ireland when it is safe for them to travel again. In the meantime, us Irish golfers get to experience these great courses this summer. North & West Coast Links have some great packages on their website so please visit and give them a call if you need any help.
Two Galway towns will benefit from funding announced today under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, which will see €13 million allocated to 24 projects across Ireland.
Clifden Town Centre and Portumna Vision 2030 will receive funding of €792,000 and €1.2 million respectively under the development fund, accounting for 75% of the cost of each project.
The funding in Portumna will go towards the renovation of the Courthouse to be used as a Community Arts Centre, and a Remote Working Hub and a Tourist Information Office.
Minister Ciarán Cannon said that this is “a fantastic development for the great team at the Shoreline’s Arts Festival, the Portumna Players and many other cultural groups in South East Galway.”
The €1.2 million in funding will also contribute to public realm regeneration works along St Brendan’s Court, Clonfert Avenue, Bridge Road and Castle Avenue, and a Sculpture Park linking Portumna Castle, Portumna Workhouse, Courthouse, Forest Park and the Loop Walk.
Two protected buildings will be acquired on Abbey Street and converted into homes, while retaining the protected structures.
Announcing the successful projects today, Minister Ring said that the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund represents an unprecedented opportunity to deliver the scale of investment necessary to allow rural communities to further develop and prosper.
“This investment is more important than ever to help address the challenges arising from the COVID-19 crisis and to drive economic recovery and sustainable development in rural areas,” he said.
Minister Ring said that the Category 2 funding is for projects that require further development to make them ready for construction.
“There can be significant work and expense involved in getting projects to the point where they are ready to be delivered.
This support is critical to ensure that a pipeline of ambitious regeneration projects are ready to hit the ground running in the future,” he added.
Food lovers across the world are being given a virtual taste of Irish food with private online cooking classes by Michelin Starred chef JP McMahon.
The restaurateur and author is offering one-to-one classes to individuals as well as classes to groups of up to four people.
The theme of each class, which takes around three hours, can be chosen by the students and they can expect to complete five to six great dishes in this time.
JP has welcomed cooking class students from all over the world, and said that the online classes are a way to spread the great word of Irish food.
“We’ve been doing classes with people from all over the world, from Switzerland and Copenhagen to Seattle and San Francisco,” he said.
“Because people can’t travel to Ireland, they’re taking our classes to experience Irish food. Our future plans include expanding on our classes by recordings that can be rolled out as MasterClasses.”
JP, along with his business partner Drigin, is the restaurateur behind some of Galway’s most beloved restaurants including tapas restaurant Cava Bodega and Tartare Café + Wine Bar, a café by day and small plates restaurant and natural wine bar by night.
Both Cava Bodega and Tartare Café + Wine Bar have been operating a take-away only service since COVID-19 measures were enforced on Ireland.
Both will reopen as dine-in restaurants as restrictions are eased next week. Tartare will reopen Tuesday 30th June while Cava Bodega will reopen Thursday 2nd July.
Reopening the restaurant, Drigin said, “we have a strong local base in Cava and Tartare and we are looking forward to welcoming guests back into the restaurant. The takeaway has been very successful and we will continue it in Cava for the foreseeable future.”
JP is also co-owner of Michelin-starred Aniar Restaurant and Boutique Cookery School. While the popular cooking classes will remain as scheduled throughout the season, the restaurant will not reopen this year.
JP McMahon said, “Due to the pandemic and the lockdown, we’ve decided not to re-open Aniar this season.
“As we only have 16 weeks left of this current season, social distancing measures reducing the possibility of making the restaurant viable, and a complete absence of international tourism – which is our main base – the financial risk is too great for fine dining.
“We’ve decided instead to focus on our online cooking classes for the remainder of the season until October.
“Our regular classes in Anair will begin a little earlier in September and continue to March next year. We hope to welcome back our guests in April 2021.”
Prices for these tailored live classes are from €225 for one person to €560 for four people. To book a private class and for more information visit www.aniarrestaurant.ie
Businesses in the Galway Gaeltacht are set to benefit from €5 million in funding being provided for client companies of Údarás na Gaeltachta.
Outgoing Minister for the Gaeltacht and the Islands Seán Kyne confirmed that Údarás companies will receive an initial €5 million allocation for supports under the Sustaining Enterprise Fund.
The Sustaining Enterprise Fund was launched in April under Enterprise Ireland to help companies maintain their liquidity in these time.
The fund was created with a pot of €180 million, and can provide companies with grants of up to €800,000.
Seán Kyne said that €5 million from the fund is being provided specifically for client companies of Údarás na Gaeltachta.
While it is expected that this amount will be enough to meet “present demands” of Gaeltacht companies, he added that it will be reviewed as the scheme progresses.
Small and micro business in the Gaeltacht region are also being encouraged to apply for aid from the €250 million Restart Grant Fund which is administered by local authorities.
“The support in the form of direct grant aid is aimed at helping micro and small businesses with the costs associated with reopening and re-employing workers following COVID-19 closures.”
“The grant can be used to defray ongoing fixed costs,” Seán Kyne said, adding “utilities, insurance or for replenishing stock and for measures needed to ensure employee and customer safety.”
