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How to Use Mobile Apps for Easy Travel and Leisure Preparations

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Galway Daily news flight cancellation cancelled Government backs credit note refund for Irish travel agent and tour operator holidays

Traveling has so many great perks, like experiencing cultural diversity and the ambience of a new place. However, you have to get past the daunting part of traveling first, making the calls, scheduling events, and reading guides for hours. Luckily, new mobile applications have popped up that make this part of the process seamless.

Mobile apps are many and have diverse functions relating to travel. Depending on what you are planning, some apps help with booking flights and hotels, others help with finding hot spots in your travel destination, as well as some can entertain you, and others yet help with language barriers. You can find a variety of leisure activities on your trip, from games to spins, like https://goingambling.com platform which provides first-class entertainment on the go.  

You will discover some of the top-rated mobile apps for travel and leisure in this article and the advantages of mobile apps for travellers.

Why You Should Use Mobile Apps for Your Travel and Leisure Plans

There are mobile apps for planning trips to other countries or even outings in your own city. The possibilities are endless. Let’s look at some of the top reasons to switch from manual to digital:

  1. They are Faster and Easier

Like many other things, digital booking is way better than manual. With mobile apps, you can bypass the queues at airports and hotels and plan your movement beforehand. The app usually does all the research you need and then presents you with options that suit you while you make payment. Quick and easy to use!

  1. You Get a Premium Experience 

One thing that travelling without research does is limit the range of activities you can partake in. You won’t make the memories you want if you don’t know that type of location exists. So, some travel mobile apps, like TripAdvisor, create an itinerary of activities for your stay at your new location. 

An itinerary narrows down your choices to the places with the best reviews and customer enjoyment. Plus, you get a list of fun tourist sites, restaurants, and activities like bungee jumping, deep-sea diving, and several other adventures in the area based on your preferences. Meanwhile, this won’t prevent you from exploring some places on your own if you want. You win both ways. 

  1. It Saves You Money

Anybody who travels often or likes to travel can tell you that you can get much cheaper flights if you book far ahead of your travel date. This same rule applies to paid parks or other recreational activities—paying ahead reduces cost. A good travel and leisure planning mobile app makes it possible to plan your trip long before D-day. 

 

Also, many apps give notifications when there are discounts on tickets from airlines, sales on accommodation, or bonuses in online casinos. You get more for your money with this option, and it allows you to spend the money on other things. 

The Best Mobile Apps for Enjoyable Travel and Recreation

 

Pexels

For your travel experience, you need apps for three major things: planning apps, apps for spotting locations and entertainment, and navigation apps. Using applications for these major sections will boost your energy and satisfaction throughout the trip. Here are some top applications in each category:

  • Apps for Planning 

Apps for travel planning help with plans for accommodation, transport, and flights. Many apps help to book all three because these are the most important factors you need to settle when traveling. Some examples include Booking.com and Skyscanner. 

 

Skyscanner leans more into comparing prices of different flights and accommodations amidst the other services. 

  • Apps for Recreation

Some apps are specifically for seeking recreational activities around you and finding entertainment. Examples include Eventbrite and TripAdvisor. 

 

TripAdvisor allows you to directly book tickets for concerts and other entertainment activities.

But don’t miss out on online entertainment as well because it is always by your side on your phone, ready to unwind your thoughts, and even win you some money, in case of gambling games. 

Conclusion

There are so many ways to have fun and save costs with mobile apps on your trip. You should maximize as many apps as you need to make the entire process seamless and relaxing for you. Ditch the long, manual route of booking flights and hotel rooms, and have the best trip you’ve ever had.

Updates to visiting restrictions at Galway hospitals

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Galway Daily news

University Hospital Galway and Portiuncula Hospital Ballinasloe have both issued updates on visiting hours and restrictions amid flu outbreaks.

Galway’s hospitals have been dealing with a significant number of flu patients in their wards, with 43 at UHG alone.

This has led to restrictions in the visiting hours and the number of people who are allowed to visit patients in the hospital.

At University Hospital Galway visiting hours are limited to between 2pm to 4pm and 6pm and 8pm, with only two adult visitors allowed for each patient.

At Portiuncula Hospital visiting times will continue between 2pm to 4pm and 6.30pm and 8.30pm, with only one visitor allowed per patient.

Children and additional adult visitors are advised not to visit patients in hospital except in exceptional circumstances.

For patients with exceptional circumstances, based on compassionate grounds, it may be possible to accommodate additional visitors at UHG.

Visitors are requested to comply with the visiting restrictions and cooperate with hospital staff who are ensuring the restrictions are adhered to.

Given the need to control the spread of infection, the hospitals are appealing to the public not to visit the hospital if they have any symptoms of flu or other respiratory infection.

Masks will be available for all visitors at the entrance of the hospital and visitors are asked to practice good hand hygiene and to use the available hand gel regularly.

Snow Ice Warning for Galway as freezing weekend predicted

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Met Eireann has issued a Snow & Ice warning for Galway and the rest of Ireland this weekend as freezing conditions are forecast.

The cold snap is expected to continue over the weekend and into next week, with Met Eireann predicting falls of sleet and snow over the weekend, particularly in the Midlands.

The status yellow warning for Leinster, Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Clare, Limerick, Tipperary, Waterford, and Connacht will be in effect from 5pm Saturday until 5pm Sunday.

Falls of sleet and snow are forecast for that time with snowfall accumulations expected.

This may cause hazardous travelling conditions with poor visibility, and possible disruptions of public transport.

Temperatures in Galway are expected to hit lows of -1 degrees this weekend, before getting significantly colder next week.

A Status Orange warning has been issued for Carlow, Kilkenny, Wicklow, Clare, Limerick, and Tipperary where significant accumulations of snow are expected.

Galway girl wins an incredible €100,000 in Galway Rape Crisis Centre Fundraising Draw

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Deirdre Butler (centre) winner of the GRCC fundraiser win100grand.ie alongside (left) Cathy Connolly, Executive Director, GRCC and (right) Iognáid Ó Muircheartaigh, Chairperson, GRCC.

It’s a Christmas Deirdre Butler will certainly never forget after winning an incredible €100,000 at the weekend in the hugely exciting Galway Rape Crisis Centre fundraiser win100grand.ie. 

Deirdre, who is from Rahoon in Galway and a teacher by profession, was the first ticket out of the drum at the closing ceremony at GRCC Headquarters last Saturday night. She was indeed one of the first people to purchase a ticket last April.   

“I’m in complete shock, I just can’t believe it. It’s fantastic news. It will make a huge huge difference,” said Deirdre. 

The draw to win €100,000 started last April with tickets bought in all four provinces, in Europe, Asia, Australia and America as well as in numerous other places around the world. 

“I just want to thank everybody who supported us and bought tickets since we launched the fundraiser. The reaction in Galway and all over the country as well as across the world has been wonderful,” said Cathy Connolly, Executive Director, Galway Rape Crisis Centre. 

Proceeds from the draw are going towards a new home for the Galway Rape Crisis Centre in the Claddagh in Galway. The building is expected to open in May 2025. 

“We are hugely excited about the new build and moving to one of the most picturesque places in Galway. We plan to expand our reach, enhance our services, and continue our vital work in raising awareness through education,” added Cathy. 

The full draw and all the details are on the website www.win100grand.ie  

Public urged to help contain the spread of flu as hospitals struggle

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galway daily news public urged to help contain spead of flu

Health services across the West and North West remain under significant pressure with very high rates of flu.

Saolta Hospitals were treating 166 patients hospitalised with the flu as of Thursday, putting significant pressure on services.

Health services are asking the public to help control the spread of the flu by co-operating with visiting restrictions and infection control measures which have been introduced in hospitals.

For all hospitals across the West and North West face masks are now mandatory in the Emergency Department.

Everyone attending the ED must wear a face mask for the duration of their stay and these are widely available throughout the hospital.

In all other areas of the hospital and across all residential facilities we are urging visitors to please wear a face mask to protect themselves and patients and staff from the risk of infection. Please be vigilant and wash your hands and use hand gel regularly.

“As a necessary infection control measure some hospitals in the West and North West have introduced visiting restrictions,” HSE spokesperson said.

“We regret the impact these restrictions will have on patients and their families, especially at this time of year but we need to do everything we can to control the spread of infection.”

“These restrictions are temporary and subject to change based on daily activity levels so please check HSE.ie for information about visiting in your local hospital.”

Symptoms of flu include a high temperature, aches and pains, headache, sore throat or cough. If you have any of these symptoms please do not visit a loved one in the hospital.

You must postpone your visit until at least 48 hours after your symptoms have cleared, this will reduce the risk of spreading infection to people who are sick and vulnerable.

For mild illness or non-urgent conditions there are a number of treatment options open to you depending on your illness – being prepared and knowing where to go will mean that you will get treated more quickly and will ease pressures on the healthcare system.

Your local out of hours GP service and pharmacies are open this weekend for expert advice and treatment.

“Anyone with breathing difficulties or chest pain should attend the emergency department for treatment or call 112/999 in an emergency, and patients with non-life-threatening conditions should seek healthcare in the community.”

“As always, we treat our sickest patients first, which means that patients who attend the ED for routine and non-urgent treatment will experience very long waiting times.”

Temperatures to plunge as low as -3 with weather warning issued

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Galway Daily weather Met Eireann issues fresh weather warning for Galway

Temperatures are expected to plunge as low as -3 degrees overnight as Met Eireann has issued a status yellow weather warning.

The Low Temperature/Ice warning for all of Ireland will be in effect from 6pm on Thursday until 11am on Friday.

“Very cold with widespread frost and ice as temperatures fall to -3 degrees or below in many areas.”

The coldest temperatures in Galway will be inland, while many coastal areas will see lowest temperatures of 0 to -1 degrees tonight.

This frost has the potential to create hazardous travelling conditions and animal welfare issues.

Met Eireann has also forecast snow and sleet developing this weekend, with a weather advisory for all of Saturday and Sunday.

A spell of rain will spread northwards over Ireland during the course of Saturday, turning to sleet and snow in some areas.

Rain, sleet and snow will continue for a time on Sunday before clearing eastwards into the Irish Sea.

Significant accumulations of snow are likely in some counties which may cause travel disruptions.

Galway and Ireland are headed into a sharp cold snap with the new year, as temperatures are expected to continue to fall and get much colder next week.

Ireland’s Most Trusted Casino Sites: Verified by CasinoBonusesFinder

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When it comes to online gambling in Ireland, players seek platforms that offer not only excitement but also trust and reliability. For a comprehensive list of Ireland’s top-rated and secure casino sites, visit https://ireland-lotteryfinder.com/. Verified sources like CasinoBonusesFinder ensure you gamble responsibly and confidently. Trusted casino sites emphasize security, fairness, and customer satisfaction, providing players with peace of mind and a thrilling gaming experience. 

Why Trust Matters in Online Casinos

Ensuring Player Safety

Security is paramount when selecting an online casino. Trusted sites implement advanced encryption technologies, safeguarding user data and financial transactions. Look for casinos with SSL certificates and clear privacy policies to ensure your personal information remains protected.

Fairness and Transparency

Reputable casino sites employ Random Number Generators (RNGs) to guarantee fair play. Additionally, they provide transparent terms and conditions, ensuring players fully understand the rules and payout structures.

Licensing and Regulation

Legitimate online casinos are licensed by recognized authorities such as the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) or the UK Gambling Commission. These licenses ensure the platform adheres to strict standards of fairness, security, and responsible gambling. For additional insights into Ireland’s gambling regulations, check out Irish Gambling Commission.

Features of Ireland’s Top Casino Sites

Generous Bonuses and Promotions

Ireland’s trusted casinos attract players with enticing bonuses. From welcome packages to loyalty rewards, these promotions enhance the gaming experience.

Types of Bonuses

  • Welcome Bonuses: Exclusive offers for new players.
  • Free Spins: Opportunities to play slots without using your own money.
  • Cashback Offers: Refunds on losses to keep players engaged.

Diverse Game Selection

Top Irish casinos feature an extensive library of games, including slots, table games, and live dealer options. Renowned providers like Microgaming and NetEnt ensure high-quality gameplay.

Popular Game Categories

  1. Slots: Classic, video, and progressive jackpot slots.
  2. Table Games: Variants of blackjack, roulette, and poker.
  3. Live Dealer Games: Real-time gaming with professional dealers.

Mobile Compatibility

With mobile-friendly platforms, Irish players can enjoy seamless gaming on the go. Whether through apps or responsive websites, these casinos ensure uninterrupted entertainment.

Comparing Ireland’s Top Casino Sites

To facilitate an informed choice, the following table synthesizes the core attributes of Ireland’s most reputable online casinos:

Casino Name Welcome Bonus Key Features Licensing Authority Payment Methods Withdrawal Times
Paddy Power €500 + 100 Free Spins Advanced SSL Encryption, RNG Certified Malta Gaming Authority Visa, MasterCard, Skrill 1-3 Business Days
Betway €300 + Cashback Immersive Live Dealer Games, Mobile Optimization UK Gambling Commission PayPal, Neteller, Trustly 24-48 Hours
888 Casino €400 + 50 Free Spins Expedited Withdrawals, Round-the-Clock Support Gibraltar Gambling Commission Bank Transfer, PayPal 2-5 Business Days
LeoVegas €600 + 200 Free Spins High-Quality Mobile App, Extensive Game Library Malta Gaming Authority EcoPayz, Paysafecard Instant to 3 Days
Casumo €250 + Cashback Loyalty Program, Weekly Promotions UK Gambling Commission Crypto, Visa, Neteller 1-4 Business Days

 

Tips for Choosing a Reliable Casino

Read Player Reviews

Reviews from other players provide valuable insights into a casino’s reliability and customer service. Trusted platforms have consistently positive feedback.

Check Payment Options

A variety of secure payment methods, such as PayPal, Visa, and Skrill, is a hallmark of a trustworthy casino. Ensure the platform supports fast and secure transactions.

Test Customer Support

Reliable casinos offer 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, or phone. Test their response time and helpfulness before committing to a platform.

CasinoBonusesFinder: Your Trusted Guide

Navigating the world of online casinos can be daunting, but CasinoBonusesFinder simplifies the process. Their team verifies and reviews casinos, ensuring players access the best options. Whether you’re looking for exclusive bonuses or top-rated platforms, CasinoBonusesFinder has you covered.

Conclusion

Ireland’s most trusted casino sites prioritize player safety, fairness, and exceptional gaming experiences. By using resources CasinoBonusesFinder, players can confidently choose platforms that meet their needs. Remember to gamble responsibly and enjoy the thrill of gaming on secure and reliable sites.

Gardaí release new information into investigation of body discovered in Co. Roscommon

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Galway Daily news

Gardaí have released new information about a vehicle of interest in the investigation into the discovery of a woman’s body in Roscommon on Monday.

The body of a woman in her 50s was found on lands at Curraghaleen, Co. Roscommon (near Athlone) on Monday afternoon.

The body was removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Galway for a post-mortem examination by the Deputy State Pathologist.

A senior investigating officer (SIO) has been appointed to lead the investigation and an incident room has been established at Athlone Garda Station. A family liaison officer (FLO) has also been assigned to provide support to the family.

The investigation is ongoing and Gardaí are appealing to the public for information.

Gardaí are particularly interested in the movements of a silver 08G registered Peugeot 207 on Saturday, December 28 between 11am and midday.

The car is understood to have travelled from Beechville estate, Athlone onto the N6 motorway (west bound) from junction 11 to junction 13 before continuing on the R362 from Monksland to Bealnaulla.

Motorists who travelled along these routes within this timeframe are asked to provide Gardaí with dash-cam footage.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Athlone Garda Station on 090 649 8550, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

University of Galway information event for mature students and adult learners

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Galway Daily news University of Galway Open Days
University of Galway Quadrangle. Photo Credit: Professor Chaosheng Zhang

University of Galway’s Access Centre is hosting its annual information evening, this year focusing on the needs of mature students and adult learners who may be considering full-time or part-time studies.

The information evening will take place on Wednesday, January 15 from 6:30pm – 9pm in the Institute for Lifecourse and Society (ILAS Building), Upper Newcastle Road, University of Galway.

The in-person event is designed particularly for those aged 23 or over who want to find out more about study options at University of Galway.

Attendees will have the opportunity to discuss opportunities with current mature students and course experts to help them decide which options best suit their personal circumstances and professional development needs.

Kathleen Hartigan, Mature Student Officer at University of Galway’s Access Centre, said, “We have seen over the years that mature students bring an enthusiasm and a motivation to learn that enriches our campus community”.

“We are dedicated to providing them with the necessary information to help them choose the best educational option for their needs.”

Members of the Access Centre will be available to answer questions on pre-university courses in terms of Access/Foundation courses, and staff from Disability Support Services, who have expertise in supporting students who may have a long-term health condition (physical or mental), or a specific learning difficulty, will also be on hand to give guidance to prospective students.

The University’s Career Development Centre will provide information on exploring career pathways and how to plan education and a career journey.

Nuala McGuinn, Director at the Centre for Adult Learning and Professional Development, University of Galway, said: “We are seeing many technological advancements which are reshaping workforce development across industry.”

“These changes are impacting how people learn, work, and build their skills. Whether you are looking for a short-term micro-credential or a flexible, part-time course – undergraduate or postgraduate – our staff are on hand to explore options with you.”

Registration for this event is essential. Please register here or email maturestudents@universityofgalway.ie

Further information is available at https://universityofgalway.ie/mature/.

High winds forecast for New Year’s Eve as weather warning in place from midnight

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

A weather warning has been issued for high winds creating dangerous conditions in Galway from midnight tonight.

Met Eireann has issued a status yellow wind warning for Galway, Mayo, and Donegal from midnight tonight until 11am Tuesday.

Throughout the early hours and into Tuesday morning the west and northwest coasts will experience strong to gale force and gusty southwest winds.

This may result in branches and loose or flying debris creating hazardous driving conditions.

Met Eireann has also said that there could be wave overtopping due to onshore winds and high seas, particularly during high tide times.

There will be a wet start to New Year’s Eve on Tuesday, with heavy rain in the morning giving way to lighter showers in the afternoon.

Highest temperatures tomorrow of 10 to 11 degrees will be the last mild day before a cold snap sets in with the new year.

Temperatures will begin to fall from Wednesday on, dropping below 0 in the latter half of the week.

Woman in her 80s dies following car crash

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Galway daily news

A woman in her 80s lost her life in a car crash in the west of Ireland which occurred over the weekend.

Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a fatal road traffic collision near Kilrush, Co. Clare on Sunday afternoon.

The two car crash occurred on the R473 at Kilcarroll at approximately 2:00pm yesterday.

The driver and sole occupant of one of the vehicles, a woman in her 80s, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Her body has since been removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Limerick. No other injuries were reported.

The road remains closed at this time pending a technical examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. Local diversions are in place.

Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to this collision to come forward.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and who were travelling in the area at the time are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Kilrush Garda Station on 065 908 0550, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

High number of flu patients putting pressure on Portiuncula Hospital

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Galway Daily news Portiuncula Hospital reports high flu circulation

Portiuncula University Hospital is treating a high number of patients with flu which is leading to long wait times and increased pressure on hospital services.

There has been a high circulation of the flu virus in the community recently, which is expected to peak in the coming days.

PUH is asking people to be aware of all their potential healthcare options to minimise the risk of outbreaks in the hospital.

Symptoms of flu include a high temperature, aches and pains, headache, sore throat or cough. If you have any of these symptoms please do not visit a loved one in the hospital.

Please postpone your visit until at least 48 hours after your symptoms have cleared, this will reduce the risk of spreading infection to people who are sick and vulnerable.

James Keane, PUH Hospital Manager said, “Our staff are working very hard to care for the many seriously ill patients in the hospital and we need to do everything we can to protect our patients from additional risks of the flu virus.”

“All visitors are urged to wash their hands properly and use hand gel regularly while in the hospital. For your protection, masks are available in the main hospital foyer and in the wards.”

For mild illness or non-urgent conditions there are a number of treatment options open to you depending on your illness – being prepared and knowing where to go will mean that you will get treated more quickly.

The out of hours GP service, Roscommon Injury Unit and pharmacies are also open for healthcare advice and treatment.

Emergency Departments are always available to treat seriously ill patients and the sickest patients are seen first. People with less severe injuries and symptoms may have to wait to be seen.

Breaking Limits: How Does CBD Fuel Athletic Recovery?

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Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, has been steadily gaining attention for its possible health benefits. Recently, it has sparked interest in professional sports, particularly for its ability to support recovery after intense physical activity. What do current findings reveal about its ability to aid athletes?

The Surprising Link Between CBD and Endurance

Recent studies suggest that CBD may support several physiological functions during demanding exercise. Some research highlights its role in improving VO2 max, or maximum oxygen uptake capacity, which is particularly relevant for elite athletes. This is often attributed to CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties, which help the body recover faster, allowing for more frequent and effective training sessions.

Improved VO2 max is also linked to better endurance, allowing athletes to sustain performance for longer periods. While initial findings are promising, research between 2021 and 2024 reflects growing interest in CBD’s connection to sports performance.

For athletes looking to integrate it into their routines, CBD hemp oil offers a practical way to ease discomfort and reduce pain perception, supporting more consistent training. This consistency supports more productive preparation. Additionally, managing anxiety is another reported benefit of CBD. Athletes who experience reduced stress levels are better able to stay focused and perform at their peak. The potential of CBD to positively influence mental clarity and physical endurance underscores its versatility in high-pressure environments, such as competitions.

A Closer Look at CBD and Muscle Repair

Beyond its use during active performance, CBD shows promise in aiding recovery after exercise. Research indicates that CBD may help reduce muscle damage markers, such as creatine kinase, within a few days after intense training. This could support faster recovery by alleviating stress on overworked muscles. Some studies also suggest that CBD might support the muscle repair process by influencing cellular regeneration, which is helpful for athletes pushing their physical limits.

This process is primarily linked to its anti-inflammatory effects, which can speed up recovery times and allow athletes to resume training without unnecessary delays. CBD’s appeal also stems from its reported lack of significant side effects. Whether consumed as oils, capsules, or other forms, studies have consistently shown it to be well-tolerated. This safety profile positions CBD as a low-risk option for athletes looking to integrate it into their routines. However, like any supplement, regular use requires careful monitoring and professional guidance.

The Next Chapter in CBD and Athletic Science

While early findings on CBD’s benefits are encouraging, more research is needed to establish consistent guidelines. Existing clinical trials offer a starting point, but have yet to confirm all the proposed effects. Broader studies could clarify effective dosages for athletes.

Notably, no research has reported negative effects on metrics like muscle strength or endurance, making CBD a low-risk option under medical supervision. Its safety profile and potential to support physical recovery and mental clarity position it as a promising supplement for those seeking a competitive edge.

CBD is gaining momentum as a supplement for athletes, thanks to its potential to enhance recovery, manage pain, and reduce anxiety. While further research is needed to fully understand its capabilities, the current findings are encouraging. For athletes looking to refine their training and recovery routines, CBD offers a low-risk option worth exploring under proper supervision. As the field progresses, future studies may unlock new insights into how CBD can reshape the approach to sports recovery and performance.

Record number of new housing tenants for Galway County Council in 2024

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Galway daily news Galway County social housing tenants

A record 502 keys were issued to tenants of Local Authority, Approved Housing Bodies, Rental Accommodation, and Mortgage to Rent schemes during 2024, according to the Housing Department of Galway County Council.

The past 12 months have also seen the number of local authority-owned properties exceed the 3,000 mark for the first time ever.

Galway County Council is also aiming to deliver over 600 new social housing units over the next two years, including local authority construction projects in Ballinasloe, Loughrea, Tuam and Ardrahan in 2025.

Two such local authority social housing projects completed during 2024 were at Pairc na Cille, Weir Rd, Tuam (31 units) and Darach, Ballymoe (8 units).

Galway County Council’s Croí Cónaithe grant scheme is continuing to refurbish vacant and derelict properties. In 2024, 465 applications have been received of which 283 have subsequently been approved.

These vacant or derelict properties are located in Athenry / Oranmore (31), Ballinasloe (60), Connemara (61), Loughrea (71) and Tuam (60), representing a €16 million investment in the local communities.

“Galway County Council is focused on providing security of tenure while addressing homelessness, increasing supply, and making efficient use of existing stock to build sustainable communities across the county,” explained Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council.

“I very much welcome the recent approval by the Elected Members of the Local Authority’s housing borrowing requirements,” he added.

“Approval of loans totalling €66.5 million is required to fund critical housing projects and schemes, aimed at addressing housing shortages, promoting affordable and cost rental options, regenerating communities by bringing vacant properties back into use and investing in existing social housing.”

“The borrowing approval will enable Galway County Council to deliver the first affordable cost rental homes and advance three affordable housing schemes in Baile Chláir (Claregalway) and Athenry.”

Michael Owens, Director of Housing, Galway County Council stated, “Considerable progress has been made in utilising all housing stock available to Galway County Council.”

“For example, there are currently no vacant available to let properties in our stock with 56 units under offer, repair, derelict or approved for sale.”

The first affordable homes built in Galway County since 2013 are also not becoming available for sale, with 61 affordable housing units in the Garraí Na Gaoithe estate in Claregalway expected to be delivered in 2025.

“This is the first turnkey housing scheme to include affordable housing in County Galway under the Government’s Housing for All policy.”

How Streaming Services Are Driving Engagement in the Canadian Sports Betting Market

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Galway Daily gaming

The use of streaming services has changed the way in which Canadians participate in sports. It is not only about watching the game but also about being involved with every aspect of it. In a fast-paced sports betting environment, live-streaming creates endless opportunities for both punters and the fans by blending technology and enthusiasm. Let us look at how streaming platforms are changing the face of sports betting in Canada.

Live Streaming Growth

Streaming services have completely altered the experience of sports viewers across the globe. Fans are more engaged in whatever game they may be watching as they have high-quality streams available to them. This accessibility has a positive effect on betting as well, as fans can watch the game and do NFL betting online at the same time. Canada’s atmosphere of sports betting revolves around this live interaction, in which every fraction of a second is critical in determining the outcome of a bet.

Live Betting

Thanks to the possibility of streaming live sports, sports bettors can bet on the game while it is active. This feature is referred to as in-play or real-time betting, and this makes sports more fun and interactive. There is nothing more thrilling than watching a soccer player go for a goal or a basketball team complete a comeback and being able to change bets on the spot. This combination is appealing to fans throughout Canada.

Enhanced Fan Engagement

There are several ways in which fans can enjoy sports more by using streaming services:

  • Exclusive Content: Watch other people’s and teams’ interviews, analyses, or documentaries.
  • Interactive Features: Provide feedback in real-time, ask questions, or join other fans in front of their screens in virtual reality.
  • Personalized Streams: Based on the fans’ preferences, such as their preferred teams or players, other content will be provided.

These features make every fan feel like they are part of the action. In Canada, streaming services alter the definition of a sports fan by combining entertainment with betting opportunities.

Instant Interaction

Fans and gamblers alike are growing communities on streaming apps. Users can chat with each other, talk about the game during it, and celebrate a win together. There is like-mindedness, and the thrill of such interaction is invigorating. Canadian viewers consume sports content more often than ever and watch more and more sports bets. It is worth noting that Canadians love to bet on a wide variety of sporting events, from the NFL to premier betting. This, in turn, has a powerful effect on the sports betting market.

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Sports Anytime, Anywhere

Gone are the days of missing out on games because of cable restrictions. With streaming services that offer TV coverage of games, sports fans have a level of flexibility that was unheard of before. Now, whether you are at home, on the move, or even in the woods camping, you can watch live games on your mobile devices. This enables Canadian bettors to stay in touch with their favorite sports at any given time from any location, and thus, no possibility of missing the bet exists.

Changes and What the Future Holds in Streaming and Betting

There will always be a strong relationship between watching sports and betting on them, and as technology advances, that relationship will become stronger. More features helping you bet more or stream a game, like virtual reality streams or AI betting tips, are expected. Canada’s market for sports betting is set to flourish as long as streaming platforms keep coming up with innovations to keep the fans engaged. All in all, a very bright, fun, and full-of-opportunity future lies ahead.

Driver caught doing 161km/h on the M18 at Gort

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Galway Daily news Increase in use of speed cameras on roads

A driver caught speeding more than 40km/h over the limit on the M18 in Gort is one of the worst offenders caught in the Christmas Road Safety Campaign.

Since the Christmas traffic operation began on November 29 more than 1,200 drivers have been caught speeding.

One of the worst offences detected was a driver going 161km/h in a 120km/h zone on the M18 at Gort.

Gardaí arrested 101 drivers for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol last weekend alone, with almost 600 arrested since the operation began.

Over 1,200 drivers were detected for speeding offences by An Garda Síochána and GoSafe Mobile Safety Camera Vans.

Nearly 200 vehicles were seized by Gardaí for a range of offences under the Road Traffic Act, 1961.

There have been 170 deaths on Irish roads so far this year, down by 10 in the same period last year.

During the last weekend of this operation before Christmas, Friday 20 – Sunday 22 December, there were 2 fatalities on our roads and 8 serious collisions that resulted in a number of people receiving serious and life-threatening injuries.

“The Christmas period is one of the busiest on Irish roads. It is also one of the periods during which road users are at the highest risk of being involved in a fatal or serious road traffic collision.”

“An Garda Síochána is appealing to all those that will be taking to the roads over the Christmas period to slow down, drive within the speed limit and at an appropriate speed for the weather, traffic and road conditions. Take extra care and time to complete your journey.

“An Garda Síochána appeals to all drivers, never drive under the influence of any intoxicant,” a Garda spokesperson said.

Christmas baby book initiative at University Hospital Galway

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Back row from left, Jackie Fitzmaurice, Assistant Staff Officer; Carmel Connolly, Clinical Midwife Manager 2, Parent Education Services. Front row from left, Tina Lyons with baby Tori and Samantha Flannery with baby Tommy.

Throughout Christmas and the New Year, the Maternity Unit at University Hospital Galway will gift a book to every new mum.

This caring initiative is to give mothers something to read to their newborn to encourage brain development and bonding.

Carmel Connolly, Clinical Nurse Manager 2 in Parent Education Services explains, “I am passionate about sewing the seed early in a child’s life to develop a love of reading.”

“Research shows that reading to babies early in their developmental stages has proven benefits, with links to cognitive development and stronger brain connections.”

“It gives a child a sense of security, develops vocabulary and above all, it enriches the relationship between parent and child.

“We are delighted to be able to gift each mum a book which was kindly donated by Children’s Books Ireland.”

A stolen cash box is making waves in Ros na Rún

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Sonny is haunted by the stolen cash box, Berni is coming to the end of her tether with Jude, and Michelle is struggling with a rodent problem in Ros na Rún.

Sonny continues to be haunted by the stolen cash box and struggles to figure out his next move. Meanwhile, Cam and Sonny continue to butt heads while Sonny gives Crystal the silent treatment.

Berni continues to struggle with Jude and is quickly losing her patience with Aisling’s unreliability. Later on, she becomes even more frustrated when Jude happily cooperates with Aisling. But how far can Berni be pushed before she loses the rag completely?

Michelle struggles with the mouse problem in Teach na Rosa and enlists Cam to help lay out some traps. Soon after, Manus is not pleased with her methods and urges her to get rid of them more humanely.

Michelle decides to strike a deal with Manus, but he is left wondering how he will sort this.

Mack becomes extremely anxious after an incident with Tadhg nearly ends in disaster and to make matters worse, Tadhg has no recollection of it happening.

Although Tadhg tries to brush it off, he later has Sonny also perplexed by his behaviour. What will it take for Tadhg to realise something is wrong?

Cam reluctantly takes a call from Sonny and learns that he needs help. Soon after, Sonny reveals that Tadhg has caught him with the cash box and despite Cam’s insistence, Sonny is still against telling the truth about how he came upon the cash box and having Crystal face the consequences. But could Tadhg throw Sonny under the bus at any moment?

Catch up on all the latest intrigue in Ros na Rún in a double feature omnibus on TG4 this Sunday at 7:30pm.

What Does an Online Slot Need to Have to Be Fun?

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Trying to stand out in a very saturated industry is never easy. Markets that are overflowing with competition are the toughest to break into, especially when they are famous for being diverse because they are what clients and customers want. With gambling, this is the most pronounced with slot machines. Both in real, physical casinos and on the internet, they are by far the most numerous out of any other game. In brick-and-mortar gambling establishments, casino floors have hundreds, some even thousands of slots. Things are largely the same online. 

So how can a new slot attract enough audience and become a popular choice? If there are already hundreds of them on any web-based platform, what must a new slot do to have its dedicated fan base? In this guide, we reveal exactly that so you can hop on your favorite platform and learn how to identify the most fun and engaging slots out there. There is no better feeling than finally finding a game that you enjoy and getting to come back to it day in and day out. Once that happens, you have found the slot that deserves your time and money. 

The Casino itself Matters a Lot

One of the biggest factors in choosing the right slot is actually the casino that allows it. If the platform is lacking and if it does not allow the players enough security and does not offer a good experience, the overall enjoyment and fun cannot be at a high level. A high-tier operator must allow above-average infrastructure as well as plenty of payment options. If it is a modern crypto casino, for example, it instantly gives off a good vibe and it is a positive sign. It should then come with all it takes for a modern gambler to have fun while playing the best slots out there. Naturally, the best platforms that are well-reviewed and licensed also have the widest selection of games, out of which the slots will be the highest in number. 

Lots of Features

With slots themselves, those modern varieties that have a lot of features to offer the players usually fare far better and become near-instant hits. Sure, they can be classic slots akin to those that came before. They can have the usual formula and do not change much and still be very fun to play. However, not every player is the same nor do they desire the same experience from their daily gameplay sessions. Because of this, most new titles opt for a ton of interesting features that captivate the players and make them come back often. The most important of these have to deal with the multipliers, i.e. how many times their bet is increased based on where the reels end. 

At its core, any slot needs to have some multipliers when you connect a certain amount of symbols. That is how the games operate and is the minimum without which it would not be a slot. Still, there needs to be a lot more. Hidden features that trigger special rounds and secret mini-games are how developers attract more people. It is also how new young players discover the games and stick with them. Features also come in the form of bigger reels and grids. There needs to be at least a 4×5 for the contemporary slot enthusiast to even consider it. Most of the popular titles have 6×5 grids that pay every way, with as many as 8 different symbols that can be paired and connected in numerous ways. 

Colorful Gameplay, Fun Music, Interesting Theme

This can be understood as the holy trio of above-average online casino slot machines. Every single one of them has an intriguing theme that comes with the right set of colorful elements, fun audio, and interactive gameplay elements. For example, some of the most popular themes include the wild west, space, pirates, candy, fruit, and animals. Of course, there are many others that developers employ. The symbols are influenced by the overall theme so for candy, it is different lollipops and chocolates. It can be different fruits it it is a fruity theme, or horses, six-shooters, and wanted posters for the wild west. 

This helps with the immersion and is exactly why they are so popular among newcomer gamblers and seasoned veterans. Overall, it is always about leaving a lasting impression and immersing the player in the game. Modern entertainment requires it to be so, or else the titles will never get the audience they want. If you want to find a high-quality slot in 2025, aim for the ones that check all of the boxes mentioned. They need to look fun, appealing, and enticing. You should want to check it out for the gambling side of things, but also the general factor of entertainment. 

Galway driver doing 108km/h in a 80km/h zone among hundreds caught by Gardaí

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galway daily news Galway driver among worst speeding offences caught over Bank Holiday weekend

More than 600 drivers were caught speeding during a 24hr National Slow Down Day traffic operation by An Garda Síochána which came to an end this morning.

Between 7am Friday and 7am Saturday there were 630 motorists detected speeding on Irish roads.

Of those detections, 281 drivers were intercepted by Gardaí for driving over the speed limit.

One of the worst offenders detected was a driver doing 108km/h in a 80km/h zone on the N6, Baile An Phoill, Gaillimh.

“While this is a welcome reduction on detection rates during previous National Slow Down Days and An Garda Síochána appreciates the public’s role in this, we continue to ask that drivers are mindful of the need to slow down, especially over the busy Christmas period,” a Garda spokesperson said.

To date, 168 people have lost their lives in road traffic collisions on Irish roads.

An Garda Síochána is carrying out a nationwide traffic enforcement operation over the Christmas and New Year’s period up to January 6.

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