Ros na Rún – John Joe enacts a disastrous plan and Sonny is on the warpath

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January 20, 2024

galway daily weather weather warning for heavy rain in effect

Galway City Council has issued further updates on road closures, sandbags, and advice for motorists ahead of Storm Isha on Sunday.

The Promenade in Salthill will be closed from the roundabout at Seapoint along Seapoint Promenade as far as Galway Business School from 8:30am on Sunday until further notice.

Sandbags will be available at the following locations for people concerned about flooding in their properties.

Tourist Kiosk Salthill
Claddagh Hall
Fire Station Fr Burke Road
Spanish Arch
Docks beside the Pedestrian Crossing (St Nicholas Street)

This is in addition to measures announced earlier today including closing Toft, Salthill, Silverstrand, and Ballyloughane car parks.

Ballyloughane Beach Road has also been confined to local access only until further notice.

An Orange wind warning for Leinster, Cavan, Monaghan, Munster, Connacht will be in place from 5pm on Sunday until 2am on Monday.

Winds of more than 60-75km/h are forecast for Galway tomorrow according to Met Eireann, with gusts of more than 120km/h at times in the evening.

During this time there is a strong risk of coastal waves overtopping, dangerous driving conditions, fallen trees, and damage to power lines.

A Yellow wind warning for all of Ireland will be in force from 11am on Sunday until 4am on Monday.

The public is being asked to stay away from all coastal areas for the duration of the Met Éireann warnings.

Motorists should drive slowly to be careful of downed trees and power lines, as well as fallen or flying debris.

High sided vehicles, cyclists and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to dangerous winds during this time.

Saturday’s Lotto jackpot is the 10th highest in history

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January 20, 2024

Galway Daily news Galway player wins €45k lotto prize.

This Saturday’s Lotto draw could see one lucky player become a multi-millionaire, with one of the largest prizes in Lotto history.

This weekend’s jackpot is rolling towards an estimated €13.5 million, making it the highest amount to be seen in the game in over two years.

A potential winner of tonight’s jackpot would join the top ten list of all-time highest ever Lotto jackpot winners taking the 10th spot. The next Lotto jackpot winner will also be the first of 2024.

A National Lottery spokesperson said, “Could a Lotto player in Ireland be just over 24 hours away from a life-changing jackpot win?”

“Excitement is growing nationwide with the jackpot heading towards an estimated €13.5 million.”

“Our players are sure to be dreaming about what they would do with such a massive amount.”

Last year, the National Lottery made 22 millionaires across the Lotto and Lotto Plus games with 12 players becoming jackpot winners throughout the year.

Council orders car parks closed ahead of Storm Isha hitting Galway City

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January 20, 2024

Galway Daily news Council orders car parks closed ahead of Storm Isha hitting Galway City

Galway City Council is closing coastal roads and car parks due to the risk of flooding from Storm Isha this weekend.

Met Eireann has this morning issued an Orange Wind Warning for Storm Isha which will be in place from 5pm on Sunday until 2am on Monday.

There will be very strong southwest winds with severe and damaging gusts during that time as Storm Isha hits.

The council has ordered Toft Car Park, Salthill Car Park, Silverstrand Car Park, and Ballyloughane Car Park closed until further notice.

In addition, Ballyloughane Road is being closed to all but local traffic due to the weather.

Salthill suffers from frequent flooding during storms, and there is a persistent problem with cars getting flooded out when people don’t remove them from these exposed car parks.

Romantic Getaways in the UAE for Couples

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Thomas O'Brien

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January 20, 2024

When looking for the most romantic getaways for couples, Dubai is one of the destinations you will not want to miss on your bucket list, thanks to its unique blend of unique attractions. From beautiful flowers in Dubai to iconic architecture, serene deserts and lavish getaways, the city offers a diverse palette of romantic experiences.

The scenic beauty sets the stage for unforgettable moments especially with floral arrangements featuring eustoma flowers. From strolls along the beach to a desert safari, or a dinner in a luxurious setting, Dubai caters to varied romantic preferences. The city’s ambience, infused with luxury and charm, transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary memories which make it a top choice for couples seeking a romantic escape.

Which are some of the most Romantic Getaways for Couples in the UAE?

While Dubai offers some of the most romantic getaways, romantic life in Dubai may seem complicated, especially considering that public displays of affection are frowned upon. Here are some of the best ideas for a romantic getaway for couples in the UAE to help you get started:

Anantara the Palm Dubai Resort

Anantara the Palm Dubai Resort is a romantic haven found along the iconic Palm Jumeirah. With rooms starting at $124, it boasts an outdoor pool, pool bar, room service, and a restaurant.

The ambience is pure luxury. It provides couples with a tranquil retreat.

Imagine gifting flowers in Dubai, unwinding by the pool, enjoying gourmet dinners, and relishing the stunning views of the city skyline. Anantara ensures a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement which makes it one of the most ideal spots for couples who are seeking a romantic escape.

Atlantis, the Palm

Atlantis, The Palm situated at the apex of Palm Jumeirah is a symbol of luxury and mythical allure. It is themed on the myth of Atlantis with distinct Arabian elements which offers an immersive experience.

The resort which is the first on the island captivates with its grandeur and elegance. Couples can explore the Aquaventure Waterpark, dine in world-class restaurants, and indulge in rejuvenating spa experiences.

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai

If you have already made arrangements for flower delivery in the UAE/Dubai and have a craving for a blend of luxury and vibrant energy, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai is an enticing choice. Flaunting an outdoor pool, room service, restaurant, fitness centre, and bar, Nikki Beach Resort and Bar caters to every romantic whim.

Thanks to the resort’s terraces, which set the stage for intimate moments, visitors enjoy breathtaking views. With a perfect mix of leisure and entertainment, Nikki Beach creates an atmosphere where couples can forge lasting memories against the backdrop of Dubai’s vibrant skyline.

The Palm Dubai

At the Palm Dubai, couples cannot only partake in water sports. They can also embark on desert adventures, savour romantic dinners, or simply unwind together.

The Palm Dubai offers an array of experiences to ensure that every couple finds something special. From serene walks along the beach to adrenaline-pumping activities, this destination caters to diverse romantic preferences which make it an ideal getaway for couples.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

For enthusiasts of grandeur, the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai is a true testament to luxury. This expansive hotel is adorned with beautiful artwork and provides a lavish backdrop for a romantic escape.

Couples can revel in the plush accommodations, exquisite dining options, and the sheer scale of opulence. The hotel’s ambience, marked by sophistication, elevates the romantic experience and makes it a suitable choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai

For a truly unique and intimate experience, Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa captures the essence of luxury in the heart of the desert. A 5-star haven, it offers unparalleled hospitality.

The resort’s secluded ambience and mesmerizing desert views create a magical setting for couples. Boasting private pool villas to spa treatments, Al Maha ensures an intimate and exclusive retreat. For couples who are seeking a blend of luxury and nature, Al Maha is a captivating choice for a romantic getaway in Dubai.

In Closing

Dubai offers a slew of options for couples seeking to soak into luxury and nature. When choosing an option though, you will want to consider prices to ensure that they fit your budget.

Status Orange weather warning issued for Storm Isha

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January 20, 2024

Galway daily news Galway Daily news Status Orange weather warning issued for Storm Isha

A Status Orange weather warning has been issued for tomorrow as Storm Isha is to hammer Ireland with gale force winds.

Almost all of Ireland has been issued with an Orange wind warning which will be in place from 5pm on Sunday until 2am on Monday.

There will be very strong southwest winds with severe and damaging gusts during that time as Storm Isha hits.

This will create very dangerous coastal and travelling conditions, with large coastal waves overtopping, fallen trees and downed power lines.

A status yellow wind warning will come into effect earlier, at 11am tomorrow, and remain in force until 4am Sunday.

A Gale Warning for all Irish coastal waters and the Irish Sea will also be in place on Sunday, with Southwest to west winds reaching gale force 8 or strong gale force 9.

Minister breaks ground on Dexcom facility in Athenry which will create 1,000 jobs

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January 20, 2024

Galway Daily news Minister breaks ground on Dexcom facility in Athenry which will create 1,000 jobs

Minister for Enterprise Simon Coveney broke ground on the massive new Dexcom medical devices being built outside Athenry on Friday.

The manufacturing facility, which was approved last year, will create 1,000 jobs in the area when complete and represents one of the biggest single private sector investments ever in the West of Ireland.

The 40,227sqm facility is being built on a 32.5ha IDA landbank which currently consists of fields but is zoned for Business & Technology use by the Athenry Local Area Plan.

When completed the massive facility will encompass warehousing, production areas, administration offices, and a restaurant for staff members.

“This investment from Dexcom is not only a huge vote of confidence in Athenry but in Ireland as a whole,” Minister Coveney said.

“We are turning the sod on Dexcom’s first production plant in Europe and taking the next important step in bringing 1000 jobs to Athenry over the next 5 years.”

“I want to thank Dexcom and congratulate all those in my department and the IDA who secured this investment.”

The 1,000 available jobs include support in finance and HR, as well as a variety of engineering roles, ranging from leadership to graduate positions.

Dexcom intends to build strong links with the local universities in Galway and nearby counties, particularly around engineering and quality assurance courses.

In an additional boost to the local economy, it is expected that for every job created by Dexcom, a further 1 – 1.7 jobs will be created indirectly

The new facility will have the capacity to produce millions of Dexcom rtCGM sensors each year, helping to improve the lives of people with diabetes in EMEA.

The creation of the Dexcom manufacturing facility will undoubtedly be a gamechanger for the West of Ireland,” said Barry Regan, Executive Vice President of Operations at Dexcom.

“This is a pivotal moment for Dexcom and we are confident it will have an immensely positive impact in Galway and the wider region too, not only in relation to job creation but also as we become part of and contribute to this community.”

“We’re already proud to be partnering with Connacht Rugby, and this is only the beginning.”

Dexcom has announced a 12-year partnership with Connacht Rugby this week, which includes renaming the iconic Sportsground Stadium.

Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland said, “The sod-turning event is an important moment in this facility – first announced last year – becoming a reality.”

“This important strategic investment by Dexcom, which is the first of its kind outside of the US, will have far-reaching economic and social benefits for Athenry, the West and indeed all of Ireland.”

“I wish continued success to Dexcom and assure the team of IDA Ireland’s continued support.”

Storm Isha to cause disruption as Met Éireann issues warning

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January 19, 2024

Galway Daily news Status Red weather warning issued for Storm Eowyn

Met Éireann has issued a status yellow warning for Galway on Sunday ahead of Storm Isha’s arrival in Ireland.

The storm could cause significant coastal waves, difficult travelling conditions, and debris or loose objects being displaced.

The warning for Galway begins at 11am on Sunday and will remain in place until 6am on Monday.

Widespread heavy showers will gradually become more scattered on Sunday night as winds veer westerly. Lowest temperatures of 3 to 7 degrees are forecast.

The status yellow warning affects all counties in the Republic, while a status orange warning has been issued by the Met Office for the counties in the North for Sunday night.

Schools in Galway invited to enter 11th Eason Spelling Bee

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January 19, 2024

Galway Daily arts & culture Call to local writers for the Over the Edge Fiction Slam

Schools in Galway are being invited to register for the upcoming Eason Spelling Bee, which aims to help children develop their reading and literacy skills in a fun and creative way.

The competition, now in its 11th year, is part of an overall literacy and reading drive in the Republic to encourage and inspire children to develop their spelling and pronunciation skills.

Each registered school holds their own in-house spelling bee to determine which of their students will be put forward for the Eason Spelling Bee county finals.

Once 26 county champions have been chosen, the winners will move on to provincial finals where the top speller from each county will battle it out to compete in the grand final where the Eason Spelling Bee winner for 2024 will be chosen.

The overall winning school will receive a book library to the value of €7,500, while the finalists will receive a library worth €3,000.

The overall winner will win books or vouchers to the value of €500, and finalists (non-winners) will win books or vouchers worth €250. Each county heat winner will receive €50 worth of books or vouchers.

Group Head of Marketing at Eason, Brendan Corbett, said that they are thrilled to be entering into another year of the Eason Spelling Bee for 2024.

“We are absolutely delighted that we are able to provide children with an educational exercise that boosts their confidence, reading and spelling, while also being lots of fun,” he said.

“This year, we’re hoping to build on the success of previous years and encourage everyone to get out there and get behind their local bees.”

The winning school will receive a collection of books for their library to the value of €7,500 and the winner themselves will be awarded a goodie package full of books worth €500 and the prestigious title of the 2024 Eason Spelling Bee champion.

Register your school HERE to be in with a chance to be the Eason King or Queen Bee of 2024!

Public asked to call 999 if black car sighted as Gardaí concerned about driver’s safety

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January 19, 2024

Galway Daily news missing teen found safe

Gardaí are looking for information on the current whereabouts of a black Hyundai IX35 with the registration number EX15PVF as they have concerns for the health and welfare of the male driver.

They are appealing to the driver to make contact with his family or An Garda Síochána at any Garda station.

Members of the public with any information are asked not to approach the vehicle.

If they see the vehicle, they are asked to call 999/112 to report the sighting, or to contact any Garda station or the Garda Confidential Phone Line 1800 666 111.

The Sportsground to be renamed Dexcom Stadium in partnership deal

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January 19, 2024

Galway Daily rugby The Sportsground to be renamed Dexcom Stadium in partnership deal — Photo: INPHO/Connacht Rugby

The iconic Sportsground, home of Connacht Rugbt, is to be renamed Dexcom Stadium in a naming rights deal with medtech company.

The name change will take effect immediately, ahead of the next phase of the stadium redevelopment in March.

The naming rights deal is part of a 12 year partnership between Connacht Rugby and Dexcom, which comes as the company breaks ground on its new factory outside Athenry today.

Connacht Rugby are also excited to announce that construction on our new High-Performance Centre (HPC) and North Stand will both begin in the coming months.

Works on the HPC will begin in March with works on the North Stand following at the end of this current season.

The new Connacht Rugby HPC is expected to be completed by March 2025 and will provide all Connacht Rugby representative teams with world-class facilities to enable them to fulfil their potential and perform at the highest level.

Dexcom has broken ground today on a new 40,227sqm medical devices factory on the south-west outskirts of Athenry.

Dexcom expects to provide about 500 construction jobs while the facility is being built and up to 1,000 high-tech graduate and technician level positions once the site is running at full capacity.

When completed the massive facility will encompass warehousing, production areas, administration offices, and a restaurant for staff members.

UHG is the third most overcrowded hospital in the country today

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January 19, 2024

University Hospital Galway is the third most overcrowded in the country today, with nearly 60 patients on trolleys.

INMO data shows that there are 41 patients on trolleys in the emergency department at UHG today, and another 17 without beds in the wards.

At Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe there is just one patient admitted to the emergency department with no bed available.

Nationwide there are 507 people waiting on trolleys in Irish hospitals this morning according to the INMO Trolley/Ward Watch.

The worst affected hospital in the country is Letterkenny University Hospital (84), followed by UH Limerick (83), UHG (58), and the Mater (38).

Emergency Roadworks disrupting traffic between Oranmore and Athenry

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January 19, 2024

Galway Daily news Traffic delays from N59 roadworks in Galway City

Traffic disruption is expected on the R446 outside Galway City today due to emergency roadworks taking place.

Galway County Council is carrying out emergency surface repairs on the R446 at Derrydonnell Beg today.

The works are scheduled to take place from 9am to 4pm on Friday, January 19.

In order to facilitate these works a temporary traffic light system and lane closures will be in place today.

As a consequence road users are advised expect delays, and people travelling in the area should allow themselves additional time for journeys.

City Council planning 84 unit social housing development in Knocknacarra

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January 19, 2024

Galway City Council has announced plans for a social housing development of 84 apartments and houses in Knocknacarra.

The council intends to build the social housing development on a vacant just off the Ballymoneen Road between the Drisín and Leas na Mara estates.

The development will comprise 25 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, and 10 three-bedroom apartments.

Of those, 16 of the two-bedroom apartments have been designed as age-friendly units. The other two-bedroom units and all three-bedroom units are of a Universal Design. There will also be 13 three-bedroom terraced houses.

Aside from the homes, the social housing development will also feature a community centre and plaza, a café, and a creche.

Public space in the estate will comprise a tiered, landscaped green area located in the centre of the site in an amphitheatre-style design.

The plans for the social housing development are currently available online or at City Hall.

Public submissions with respect to the proposed development dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area can be made until Friday, March 1.

Aoife Raftery set to create motorsport history in Galway

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January 19, 2024

Aoife Raftery set to create motorsport history in Galway

Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy driver Aoife Raftery will help create an unusual piece of Irish motorsport history on the Corrib Oil Galway International Rally next month.

The Craughwell-based driver was recently appointed the Women in Motorsport Ambassador for the event.

The official launch of the rally took place at the Connaught Hotel last week.

There, Raftery, the first female driver to be selected by the Rally Academy, outlined her plans for the early part of the 2024 season.

As well as contesting her home international on February 3-4, she also hinted that she could compete in the Killarney Forestry Rally two weeks later.

The Kerry event is the first round of the Motorsport Ireland Junior Rally Series.

“I’m delighted to start the year on my home international rally as well as being the Ambassador for Women in Motorsport Ireland,” she said at the launch.

“Ines Veiga from Portugal will co-drive for me for the first time in Galway. I’d like to thank all of my sponsors who are on board for another year.”

Veiga’s appearance on the rally’s entry list means she is the first Portuguese competitor to contest the Galway International Rally since its inception in 1971, adding to the rally’s ever-evolving story.

She was the 2021 Junior Portuguese rally champion but Galway will be her first event outside her homeland.

With entries also confirmed from England, Wales and the United States of America, the Irish season opener will be a truly international occasion.

Raftery will drive a Broderick Motorsport-prepared Peugeot 208 Rally4 on the rally that will get underway with a Ceremonial Start in Eyre Square at 8 pm on February 2.

“I am looking forward to welcoming everyone to Eyre Square next month for what is sure to be a very exciting weekend in Galway,” she said.

Weather warning extended to Friday morning with severe frost forecast

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January 18, 2024

Galway Daily weather Met Eireann issues fresh weather warning for Galway

Met Éireann’s low temperature and ice warning has been extended into Friday morning as temperatures close to and below freezing persist across Ireland.

The status yellow warning, which was to expire at midday today, was updated this morning and will now remain in place for all counties until 11am on Friday.

Temperatures in Galway fell well below 0 degrees on Wednesday night, and another bitterly cold night is in store on Thursday, with severe frost forecast.

Met Éireann has warned that driving conditions will be dangerous due to icy patches on roads.

They also warned that the cold weather could cause issues for vulnerable people and animals.

Ahascragh Distillery recognised for sustainability practices

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January 18, 2024

galway daily news ahascragh distillery in seai awards

Ahascragh Distillery has been recognised as a verified member of Origin Green, Ireland’s national food and drink sustainability programme.

The Origin Green programme is run by Bord Bia and aims to make Ireland a world leader in sustainable food and drink production.

As a recently awarded member, the local distillery joins a select group of industry leaders across Ireland who are committed to reducing their environmental impact and promoting sustainability.

From its inception, the Ahascragh has prioritised sustainable practices, including energy efficiency and reducing waste.

The distillery aims to maintain zero energy emissions through a novel means of thermal storage, combined with optimal heat recovery, recycling energy that would normally go unused.

The innovative system reaches temperatures above 115° – which is a first in Ireland and the UK. This allows the distillery to achieve a saving of 706 tonnes of CO2 per year with a 40% reduction in cost over an expected lifetime of 20 years.

Water input and output is closely monitored in the distillery, with water supply coming from two on-site wells. The fully automated plant, featuring a clean-in-place system, sets Ahascragh Distillery apart in the industry. This system not only measures water usage but also minimises it through automation.

As part of its Origin Green commitments, Ahascragh Distillery aims to further enhance the sustainability credentials of its packaging over the coming years and has outlined clear targets and commitments to be achieved in the short and long term.

Gareth McAllister, founder of Ahascragh Distillery said they are delighted to be a part of the Origin Green community in Ireland.

“The membership underscores our ongoing commitment to sustainability and reinforces our belief that responsible business practices are not just good for the planet but essential for the future of our industry,” he said.

“Ahascragh Distillery looks forward to continuing its sustainability journey as an Origin Green member, contributing to a more resilient future for the Irish food and drink sector.”

Family Carers Ireland launches ‘YesYes’ campaign ahead of historic referendum

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January 18, 2024

galway daily news family carers ireland launches yes campaign for referendum on 8 March — Pictured at the launch of the 'YesYes' campaign was Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy at Family Carers Ireland and family carer Tracy Carroll with her beautiful seven-year-old daughter Willow. PHOTO: Mark Stedman

Family Carers Ireland has launched its ‘YesYes’ campaign for the upcoming historic referendum on 8 March on updating references to care and the family in the Constitution.

If passed, the referendum will recognise the invaluable contribution of family carers to society and the State’s role in supporting this.

It will also seek to remove a reference to ‘women in the home’ as well as broadening the definition of a family.

The proposed addition to the Constitution impacting family carers reads: “The State recognises that the provision of care, by members of a family to one another by reason of the bonds that exist among them, gives to society a support without which the common good cannot be achieved, and shall strive to support such provision.”

Family Carers Ireland says the referendum offers “an unprecedented chance to formally acknowledge” family carers’ contributions, and that it paves the way for more robust support, heightened respect and the development of stronger policies tailored to their needs.

Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy at Family Carers Ireland, said the referendum could be a watershed moment in our history.

“By supporting a ‘YesYes’ vote, we are advocating for a future where care and family in its broadest definition are enshrined in our Constitution and supported at all levels,” she said.

“Voting ‘YesYes’ is not just an act of recognition; it is a powerful step towards real change in how we as a nation recognise and value those who care for our most vulnerable. It’s about truly seeing the act of caring and ensuring it becomes a pivotal factor in influencing policy decisions.”

Tracy Carroll, who is a family carer, said that as a carer for her daughter and son, she has experienced first-hand the challenges and the lack of support.

“A ‘YesYes’ vote means recognising our role and addressing the support we desperately need. It’s about giving dignity and strength to those of us in the shadows,” said Tracy.

“Caring for both my children is a labour of love, but it’s also incredibly demanding. This referendum is a chance for Ireland to stand by families like mine, to ensure we are not left to struggle alone.

“A ‘YesYes’ vote is a vote for compassion and understanding of the realities we face every day. It will give us hope for a future where family carers are not just acknowledged but actively supported.”

University of Galway SU launches RAG Week as charity week returns to its roots

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January 18, 2024

galway daily news students union charity week launch — (Left to Right): Izzy Tiernan, Dean Kenny, Faye Ní Dhomhnaill, and Raimey O’Boyle (University of Galway Students’ Union)

University of Galway Students’ Union today launched their Raise and Give (RAG) Week campaign for 2024.

All events will be taking place on the University of Galway campus from Sunday 11 to Friday 16 February to raise funds for Galway Rape Crisis Centre and Cancer Care West.

Fundraising events over the week will include a fire walk, a head shave, a charity auction, a 5 km fun run, a Taylor Swift night and a 5-a-side tournament.

The fire walk will involve students and staff braving an exhilarating walk across hot coals in the spectacular setting of the Quadrangle on Monday 12 February.

The charity auction will see 20 spectacular items going under the hammer to raise as much money for charity as possible.

Students’ Union President Dean Kenny said that they are delighted to be bringing the craic back to campus this February with the Raise and Give week events.

“These events are a great chance for our whole campus community to come together and have some fun whilst also raising much needed funds for our nominated charities,” he said.

“I’ll be sacrificing my hair at the Shave Off event and would encourage all our students and staff to get involved in the events over the week.”

Students’ Union Vice President/Welfare and Equality Officer Izzy Tiernan added that they’d like to thank the University for giving them this opportunity to bring Raise and Give week back to its roots of fun and fundraising on campus.

“We will have our Student Safety Watch and clean up volunteer crews operating throughout the week to make sure everything goes smoothly. This is a fantastic opportunity to try new things, make new friends and volunteer for great causes. I’ll also be shaving my head during the week!”

Temperatures as low as -5 degrees forecast for Galway overnight

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January 17, 2024