Chartered Accountants Ireland has named Donegal native and University of Galway lecturer Sophie Sweeney ACA as its 2025 Chartered Star.

Awarded annually, the accolade is given to one of the Institute’s shortlisted members who demonstrates outstanding commitment to any of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The competition, running since 2016, gives the winner the opportunity to participate in the One Young World summit as the Institute’s representative. This year’s summit will take place in Munich, Germany, from November 3 – 6.

In her submission, Sophie described herself as a “storyteller at heart.” She is a lecturer in accountancy, finance and tax at the University of Galway and actively positions the SDGs within her teaching.

Sophie believes in intertwining the SDGs into accountancy education to embed trust and sustainability as core values for future finance leaders.

As well as this, Sophie is a PhD candidate examining how people experience tax across life stages.

She advocates against inequality in social and taxation systems for the benefit of future generations and believes that education is essential to this.

Commenting on her win, Sophie Sweeney said, “I am very excited and honoured to have been selected as Chartered Star 2025. I am passionate about learning and education as a means to promote equity and progress.”

“I am really looking forward to hearing from all the contributors at the Summit, and to workshopping with the other delegates. We can learn a lot from each other.”

Acknowledging the central role Chartered Accountants play in addressing the global challenges that the UN SDGs aim to address, competition entrants were shortlisted based on written and video testimonial submissions outlining how they live the values of the SDGs through their work and other pursuits.

The summit will bring together the Chartered Star and 2,000 other young future leaders from over 190 countries for workshops and addresses from global leaders.

Plenary topics featuring on the 2025 programme include the circular economy, responsible tech, anti-hate, education and peace and security.

CAI Sustainability Advocacy Manager Susan Rossney said, “Chartered Accountants are playing an ever-increasing role in addressing the UN SDGs through their work.”

“Sophie’s work and her research interests cover several of these including education, reducing inequalities, and promoting economic growth.”

“Not only this but she actively raises awareness of the goals through her teaching, ensuring the next generation of finance professionals understand their role in meeting the goals”.

Director of Members and Advocacy, Cróna Clohisey, said, “The Chartered Star competition is a very important initiative for the Institute. It highlights the power and potential of the Chartered Accountant to contribute meaningfully to societal change.”

“Trusted business leadership is the Institute’s guiding principle, and Sophie exemplifies this. She emerged as the worthy winner from a highly impressive shortlist and will gain a lot from the Summit, bringing these learnings back to her students. I wish her the best for the Summit in November.”

The beloved Macnas Halloween parade will make its way through the streets of Galway City once again on Sunday evening.

An Treunn The Summoning Of The Lost is based on a long lost tale by Dracula author Bram Stoker and the haunting call of the corncrake.

Discovered last year in the archives of the National Library of Ireland, Stoker’s forgotten story flickers with folklore, magic and mischief.

At its heart its sonic essence is something small, strange and precious: the Corncrake – once the summertime soundtrack of Ireland, now a ghost in our fields.

This incredible new parade explores how our culture, memory and climate intertwine and asks what it means to hold on to what we’re losing.

The Macnas parade will take place at 5:30pm on Sunday evening, starting from the University of Galway and making its way through the city via the Cathedral, Salmon Weir Bridge, Eglington Street, Shop Street, Mainguard Street, O’Brien’s Bridge, Dominick Street. Ending at the Fire Station in the Claddagh.

Recommended family viewing areas are on Father Griffin Road and Eglington Street.

For those who can’t see it this evening, or just can’t get enough, An Treunn The Summoning Of The Lost, will also run again at the Dublin City Council Bram Stoker Festival on November 2 in Dublin.

The Children’s Remembrance Committee at University Hospital Galway will hold their annual Golden Enrolment Mass in memory of deceased colleagues on Saturday, November 1 at 7pm in the Chapel of all Saints, Merlin Park University Hospital.

Hospital staff together with relatives and friends will participate in the mass. The Golden Enrolment Book inscribed with names of the deceased staff will be brought to the altar and will be available after mass for viewing.

Joan Healy from the Children’s Remembrance Day Committee said, “This is a time for us to come together in remembrance of our deceased colleagues, to honour their lasting contributions, professional legacies and enduring impact.”

“We recognise the loss and anguish of those touched by their absence and we hope that knowing they are not forgotten, may bring some comfort.”

If you have a family member who worked in University Hospital Galway or Merlin Park University Hospital and would like them remembered in this mass and the Golden Enrolment Book, please contact Anne McKeown on 091 893718 or text 087 4418574.

A new documentary celebrating the healing power of creativity premiered this week at Croí House in Galway City.

This new short film about the Mending HeArts project shares the voices and experiences of patients, artists, and healthcare staff who took part in this initiative that supports people recovering from cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Through a series of art workshops held in hospitals and community settings across Galway, including Croí House, participants explored painting, printmaking, collage, and mixed media as part of their recovery journey.

The film highlights how creativity can foster confidence, resilience, and connection, both within hospital walls and back in the community.

Speaking at the screening, Mayor of Galway City, Cllr. Mike Cubbard, said, “Projects like Mending HeArts highlight the vital role creativity plays in health and wellbeing.”

“It’s inspiring to see collaboration between healthcare services, local authorities, and the arts community helping to create a more compassionate and holistic approach to recovery.”

Following the premiere, a hands-on art session took place where participants and attendees were invited to create together in a relaxed and welcoming space.

The session offered a chance for everyone to reconnect and share experiences, a fitting reflection of the project’s spirit of creativity, connection, and community.

“The Mending HeArts project aims to create a pathway of support that follows patients from hospital through to their return to the community,” said Fiona Donovan, HSE Healthy Ireland Project Manager.

“There is a real need to embed art and health initiatives like this within our healthcare system, ensuring that emotional and social wellbeing are supported alongside clinical care throughout recovery.”

The event was a moving celebration of the Mending HeArts project and everyone who has been part of it along the way, the patients who took part in the workshops, the artists who guided them, the healthcare staff who made space for creativity in hospitals, and the many partners who helped make it all happen.

It was also a moment to reflect on everything the project has achieved and to celebrate how far it has come as it reaches the end of this phase.

Funded by Creative Ireland, the Mending HeArts project is delivered in partnership by Saolta Arts, HSE West and North West, Galway City Council, Galway County Council, Croí the Heart and Stroke Charity, and Healthy Ireland.

It highlights the transformative power of the arts in healthcare and the impact of collaboration between government bodies and non-profit organisations.

Correction: This article has been updated as of 6/11/25 with fresh information from the CCPC that Archergas Model 15-60/130, the Lowara Models Ecocirc and Ecocirc+ and the current version of the BritTherm P2 25/5 circulating pumps included in the original list published by the CCPC are not affected by this safety notice, as they do not possess the electrical coupling referred to in the notice, and pose no risk to tradespeople.

The CCPC has issued a further safety warning for 14 different circulating pump brands over a potential risk of electrocution they may pose.

This warning for tradespeople follows a recent CCPC product safety information notice regarding a number of Tucson circulating pumps.

Details of that notice and the Tucson product replacement programme are available at: Product Safety Information Notice on Tucson 5m, 6m and 8m circulating pumps.

The CCPC has received reports of other circulating pumps that may have the same or similar electrical coupling as the one on the affected Tucson pumps above, and therefore, may present the same risk of electrocution.

In line with the precautionary principle and to avoid potential harm, the CCPC is carrying out this early intervention by making all traders and tradespeople aware of this potential risk.

The warning relates to the following circulating pumps:

1. AquaPro, Model: RS 25/6 EAA
2. Katsu Tools, Model: Star 25/
3. Embrass Peerless, Model: Eclipse CFA-25-50
4. THS Thermostyle, Model: THS RS25/6 EAQ
5. Trident, Model: STAR 25/6EA 
6. Boiler M8, Model: Boiler M8 RS25/6 EAZ 
7. Suntask, Model: Star A PUM-STAR15/6A
8. IBO, Models: IBO NOVA 25-40 180 and the Beta 2 
9. Avansa, Model: Avansa 32/6/180E
10. Intertrade, Model: INTERTRADE 6 metre head circulation pump (Type R S25/6EAQ)

The CCPC has contacted the companies that produce these pumps to bring the reports to their attention. Any company that becomes aware of a potential safety risk with their product is legally obligated to take immediate action.

The CCPC is advising tradespeople to exercise caution when working on heating systems that use these circulating pumps.

Consumers are advised to do nothing at this stage, while investigations are ongoing to establish if the products meet product safety requirements.

Correction: This article has been updated to correct the warning for circulating pumps, not heat pumps, as previously stated.

As the October Bank Holiday Weekend approaches, An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority are appealing to all road users to stay safe.

Bank Holiday Weekends are among the busiest periods on Irish roads. They are also among the periods where road users are at the highest risk of being involved in a fatal or serious road traffic collision.

To date this year (24th October 2025), 138 people have lost their lives in road traffic collisions on Irish roads.
With shorter daylight hours and clocks going back one hour this Sunday, An Garda Síochána reminds all road users to ‘Be Safe, Be Seen’. Drivers are encouraged to use dipped headlights during the day, particularly if their vehicle does not have Daytime Running Lights.

Pedestrians and cyclists should wear high-visibility clothing and ensure they are clearly visible in darker conditions – statistics show a rise in pedestrian injuries on Irish roads between October and December each year. Of the road fatalities so far this year, 29 were pedestrians.

Data recorded over the period 2020-2024 shows that 1,462 pedestrians were seriously injured following a road traffic collision.

More than one-third (34%) of these serious injuries occurred between October and December. And the data shows that 21% of pedestrians in these incidents failed to observe properly.

Other data over that period found:

• A 64% increase in the number of serious injuries among pedestrians between 2021 and 2022.
• Four in ten of all serious pedestrian injuries took place in Dublin
• Types of injuries sustained by pedestrians were predominantly head and lower limb injuries with an average length of stay of 11 days in hospital.
• Hospital data shows that 1,384 pedestrians were admitted to hospital between 2020 and 2024 following a road traffic collision. Of all those hospitalised, 418 (30%) sustained clinically serious injuries, often with long-term impacts. Two-thirds were male and one-third were aged 65 or older.

An Garda Síochána is conducting a dedicated road traffic enforcement operation throughout the October Bank Holiday weekend, which will continue until 7:00am on Tuesday, October 28.

Every member of An Garda Síochána on duty will be out conducting road traffic enforcement activity.

The focus will be on detecting and deterring key risk behaviours such as speeding, impaired driving, mobile phone use, and non-wearing of seat belts.

Minister of State with responsibility for Road Safety Seán Canney said, “As the clocks go back and winter approaches, I urge all road users to make safety the focus of their journeys.”

“No matter how we travel, we need to protect ourselves and each other. Light up your vehicle; wear high visibility clothing; adjust your speed for the road and weather conditions; and never drive distracted or intoxicated.”

“Emergency services are ready to help – but let’s do our best to avoid needing them.”

Assistant Commissioner for Roads Policing and Community Engagement, Catharina Gunne, said, “An Garda Síochána is appealing to all road users to take extra care this long Halloween weekend.”

“Bank Holidays are particularly busy times on our roads. Road users need to be particularly mindful at this time of year because road conditions are wetter and this weekend, clocks go back, so the evenings are darker and longer.”

“Therefore, there is a greater risk for our vulnerable road users; pedestrians and cyclists. Please Be Safe, Be Seen.

“For motorists, we appeal to you to never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, to slow down and to always choose a speed that is appropriate for the driving conditions, to wear your seatbelt and remove any distractions while driving, such as mobile phones.”

“We must continue to raise awareness among all road users about road safety, work together with road users and our partners, to prevent a further rise in road fatalities and serious injury road traffic collisions.”

Galway County Council has launched a completely redesigned bilingual website aimed at delivering faster, clearer, and more accessible information to residents, businesses, and visitors.

The new site, available at Gaillimh.ie and Galway.ie, was developed by award-winning Irish web services company Annertech.

It now offers 100 per cent Irish-language content, improved translation management, and the ability to deliver dynamic updates, including rich media, event announcements, and severe weather alerts.

Core services, including Planning, Housing, Environment, Libraries, Climate Action, Community, and Business and Economy, are easily accessible from the home page.

Visitors can also sign up for location-based alerts on road works, planning applications, severe weather, and community notices through the MapAlerter service.

With the majority of users accessing the site on mobile devices, page layouts automatically adjust to fit smartphones and tablets.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said, “We have incorporated the views of elected members and the public, along with best practices in local government web service delivery, when redesigning the site.”

“This ensures that the most up-to-date information about our services is presented in a modern, user-friendly interface with improved navigation and accessibility features.”

Katie O’Connor, Director of Finance, Motor Tax, ICT and Digital Transformation, described the launch as “a major step forward in making our services clearer, faster, and more accessible.”

She added, “The upgraded bilingual site ensures reliable access to council information and services at all times. It follows the Local Government Service Catalogue, presenting information around what people need.”

Michael Martyn, Head of Information Systems, commented, “By rewriting all content in plain English and Gaeilge, building on an open-source platform, and making Irish-language content a core feature, we are making it easier for people to find what they need, when they need it.”

“This is about putting the user first, whether they are a resident, a business, or a visitor to Galway County.”

The site is built on Local Government Drupal, an open-source platform shared by councils in Ireland and the UK, with sharing of additional development and features on a build-once, share-many basis.

Visit www.Gaillimh.ie and www.Galway.ie.

The Small Crane has long been a place where Galway gathers. From trading potatoes centuries ago to meeting friends and neighbours for news of the week, and sharing tunes outside The Crane Bar, it has always been about people, stories, and connection.

Over time, however, the stone floor and the crane itself had fallen into disrepair. During the pandemic, the square once again became a hub for the local community, but it was clear it needed attention to remain a safe and welcoming space.

Thanks to funding from the Cairde Grant Scheme, the Galway Westend Traders Association led a complete regeneration of the square, bringing together local craftspeople and engineers to restore it to its former charm.

The project was pioneered and managed from start to finish by Lisa Regan, who first brought the idea to the Westend Traders Association, applied for the grant, and ensured that all craftspeople and tradespeople involved were local, aligned with the vision, and compliant with Galway City Council regulations.

Local stonemason Martin Crosbie, alongside Paul Murphy and his team, reinstated the traditional sea beach stone flooring, balancing authenticity with modern safety standards.

The crane, complete with weights and scales, was reinstalled by Des Leahy Engineering, once again serving as the square’s social centrepiece. Surrounding walls were cleaned and capped, and pollinator-friendly plants were added, weaving nature back into the space.

“The response has been incredible,” said Lisa Regan. “People are genuinely happy to see The Small Crane restored. This project shows what’s possible when careful planning, skilled crafts people ship, and a shared vision come together.”

“Galway needs more of this. We already have these spaces in the city; they just need to be restored and reimagined for modern-day urban living.”

“The success of this project further strengthens the case for the Small Crane area to be pedestrianised, as trialled here since 2019.”

“This square naturally lends itself to being car- and traffic-free, supporting people on foot and anyone with mobility concerns. It means safer streets and more people spending time together.”

This transformation was made possible through the collaboration of Galway’s Westend Traders Association, Lisa Regan, Martin Crosbie, Paul Murphy and his team, Benny Derrane, Frank Naughton, Des Leahy Engineering, Dilis and Laura of Dr Claire Apothecary on Sea Road, Ramberg Painters, and Galway City Council Conservation Officer Michael Scott.

For more information, visit galwayswestend.ie

Researchers at the University of Galway have revealed the results of a world-first study into how bowel cancer shuts down the immune system, and how this can be reversed to improve treatment.

The findings have been published in the Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer (JITC).

The research team showed how structural stromal cells switch off the immune system and how the body’s own killer cells can be switched back on, opening up the opportunity for a completely new approach to optimising immunotherapy for patients.

Colorectal cancer – commonly referred to as bowel cancer – is one of the world’s most common cancers and the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide.

Diagnoses in people under 50 have been climbing in recent decades, with recent global analysis showing these early-onset cases have almost doubled since 1990. In Ireland, the disease affects more than 2,500 people a year.

Professor Aideen Ryan, Professor in Tumour Immunology at University of Galway, said, “While immunotherapy has revolutionised care in cancers such as melanoma and lung cancer, it has shown very limited benefit in bowel cancer, leaving patients with advanced disease with few treatment options and poor survival outcomes.”

The breakthrough research discovery is the first to demonstrate that tumour stromal cells – the structural cells that support cancer growth – are directly reprogramming the immune system.

They do this by switching off, or hijacking, two of our body’s most important tumour-fighting cells – the natural killers (NK) and macrophages – rendering them unable to attack the cancer.

Professor Ryan said, “The interaction between the cancer, our body’s healthy cells and our defence mechanism is a complex one, but our research shows that the cancer is essentially creating an immune brake – it is blocking the body’s natural response and fight mechanism.”

Tumour stromal cells are the structural cells which allow the cancer to grow. They are coated in sugars called sialoglycans. These interact with receptors on the body’s immune cells called Siglecs.

This interaction causes the body’s natural defence response to be switched off and unresponsive when immunotherapy is used, and therefore unable to attack the cancer.

The research identified a specific enzyme that drives this process of ‘switching off’, as it produces the Siglec-binding sugars on stromal cells.

When the researchers blocked this pathway using drugs called sialidases, they could show that the body’s most important tumour-fighting cells – the natural killers (NK) and macrophages – reactivated. It showed that the tumours shrank and the spread of cancer, known as metastasis, was prevented.

The multidisciplinary research was conducted in collaboration with colorectal surgeons and pathologists at Galway University Hospital, led by Professor Aisling Hogan and Professor Sean Hynes.

It also involved experts in colorectal cancer – Dr Philip Dunne, Queen’s University Belfast and experts in targeting sialoglycans at Palleon Pharmaceuticals, MA, USA, who have developed sialidase drugs that disrupt the sialoglycan-Siglec interaction.

Professor Ryan added, “Our research is a clear breakthrough in our understanding of bowel cancer and how immunotherapy could be more successful.”

“This world-first finding shows that some of the bowel cancer cells are not just passive bystanders, they are actively reprogramming the body’s immune cells, preventing them from doing their job.”

“We have uncovered an entirely new checkpoint, and by focusing on it, we can reactivate the immune system and improve our body’s innate ability to fight the disease, and even target metastasis.”

Michael O’Dwyer, Professor of Medicine and Scientific Director of University of Galway Cancer Centre, said, “The work of Professor Ryan and her research team highlights an important interplay between cells within a tumour, facilitating disease progression and metastasis.”

“This is an excellent example of impactful, innovative research with strong industry engagement currently being undertaken within the University of Galway Cancer Centre.”

Jim Broderick, M.D., Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Palleon Pharmaceuticals, said, “The sialoglycan-Siglec axis of immunosuppression in cancer was underappreciated until very recently.”

“Targeting sialoglycan biology offers great potential for developing new therapies for diseases characterized by immune dysfunction, including cancer and autoimmunity.”

“The discoveries from Professor Ryan’s lab bring new hope to patients battling colorectal cancer and other malignancies that have proven resistant to existing immunotherapies.”

Professor Ryan’s pioneering cancer research is featured in the Breakthrough Cancer Research exhibition, Cancer Revolution: Science, Innovation and Hope, which is on display in Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre until Friday, October 31.

It includes striking microscopy images of stromal cells interacting with tumours and a 3D tumour model, helping to visualise how these cells shut down the immune system in bowel cancer.

The display explains how Professor Ryan’s team discovered that stromal cells act as an “immune brake” and how targeting this brake could finally allow immunotherapy to work for patients with colorectal cancer.

Ireland’s chief maritime safety bodies, the Coast Guard, the RNLI, and Water Safety Ireland, are urging people to stay safe on the water this Bank Holiday weekend.

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, water activities continue throughout the year, bringing increased risks.

It’s crucial to understand how your body reacts to cold water and to stay alert to hazards such as cold-water shock, rip currents, and hidden depths caused by localised flooding.

Always carry a reliable way to communicate, check weather and tide updates, and let someone know your plans before heading out.

Open water swimming safety guidelines:

• Plan ahead: Review weather forecasts, tide schedules, and wave conditions. Pack warm clothing and a hot drink for after your swim. Keep a mobile phone in a waterproof case
• Don’t swim alone: Always swim with a companion and inform someone of your intended route and return time
• Ease in gradually: Enter the water slowly to help your body adjust and reduce the risk of cold-water shock.
• Make yourself visible: Wear a brightly coloured swim cap and consider using a tow float for added visibility
• Know your limits: Stay within a depth you’re comfortable with and swim parallel to the shore
• Rip current awareness: If caught in a rip current, stay calm. Swim parallel to the shore to escape or float to conserve energy
• Keep someone informed: Share your swimming plan, location, and expected return time with someone on land
• Remember, if you find yourself in difficulty in the water, Float to Live.

If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or think that they are in trouble, use Marine VHF Ch 16 or dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.

The weather in Galway is expected to be mostly dry this weekend, with highest temperatures of 11 – 13 degrees and moderate winds.

A large number of service disruptions will take place to train services to and from Galway this Bank Holiday weekend due to engineering works.

Work is taking place on the line between Athenry and Galway, which has resulted in normally scheduled services being delayed, cancelled, or operating as bus transfers.

Some services will be affected on Friday evening and next Tuesday morning. However, the bulk of the affected trains will be on Saturday, Sunday, and Bank Holiday Monday.

The following changes have been made to regularly scheduled train services:

Friday 24th October

• 19:35 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 20:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 22:25 Galway to Athlone will be bus transfers direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 23:05 from Athenry to Athlone

Saturday 25th October

• 07:30 Athlone to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 07:35 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 09:25 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 11:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 13:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 15:35 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway
• 16:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway
• 17:10 Dublin Heuston to Athlone will operate as normal
• 17:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 18:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 19:35 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 20:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 07:00 Athlone to Dublin Heuston will operate as normal
• 06:25 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 05:55 direct from Galway to Athenry, train departing at 06:43 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 07:30 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 07:00 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 07:00 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 07:50 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 09:25 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 08:55 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 08:55 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 09:49 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 11:05 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 10:35 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 10:35 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 11:32 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 13:05 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 12:35 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 12:35 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 13:29 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 15:05 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 14:35 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 14:35 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 15:28 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 17:20 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 16:50 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 16:50 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 17:45 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 18:18 Galway to Athlone will be bus transfers departing at 17:48 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 17:48 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 18:39 from Athenry to Athlone
• 19:25 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 18:55 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 18:55 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 19:46 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 20:50 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 20:20 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 20:20 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 21:15 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston

Sunday 26th October

• 08:00 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 10:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 11:40 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway
• 14:40 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 16:35 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 18:45 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 20:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 08:00 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 07:30 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 07:30 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 08:19 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 11:00 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 10:30 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 10:30 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 11:20 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 12:20 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 11:50 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 11:50 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 12:42 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 13:40 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 13:10 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 13:10 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 14:02 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 15:00 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 14:30 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 14:30 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 15:20 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 17:00 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 16:30 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 16:30 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 17:24 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 18:00 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 17:30 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 17:30 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 18:20 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 19:25 Galway to Athlone will operate as and will be bus transfers departing at 18:55 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 18:55 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 19:44 from Athenry to Athlone

Bank Holiday Monday 27th October

• 05:45 Dublin Heuston to Galway is cancelled
• 07:30 Athlone to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 07:35 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 09:25 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 11:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate as and will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 13:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 15:35 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway
• 16:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway
• 17:10 Dublin Heuston to Athlone is cancelled
• 17:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 18:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway is cancelled
• 19:35 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate as and will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 20:30 Dublin Heuston to Galway will operate to Athenry only, bus transfers direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway
• 05:20 Athlone to Dublin Heuston is cancelled
• 05:25 Galway to Dublin Heuston is cancelled
• 06:25 Galway to Dublin Heuston will operate as and will be bus transfers departing at 05:55 direct from Galway to Athenry, train departing at 06:43 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 07:30 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 07:00 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 07:00 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 07:50 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 09:25 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 08:55 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 08:55 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 09:49 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 10:05 Galway to Dublin Heuston is cancelled
• 11:05 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 10:35 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 10:35 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 11:32 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 13:05 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 12:35 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 12:35 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 13:29 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 15:05 Galway to Dublin Heuston will operate as and will be bus transfers departing at 14:35 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 14:35 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 15:28 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 17:20 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 16:50 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 16:50 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 17:45 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 18:18 Galway to Athlone will operate as and will be bus transfers departing at 17:48 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 17:48 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 18:39 from Athenry to Athlone
• 19:25 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 18:55 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 18:55 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 19:46 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 20:50 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 20:20 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 20:20 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 21:15 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 22:25 Galway to Athlone is cancelled
• 08:52 Galway to Athenry is cancelled
• 16:30 Galway to Athenry will be substituted by bus transfers departing at 16:00 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 16:00 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry
• 09:25 Athenry to Galway is cancelled
• 16:55 Athenry to Galway will be substituted by bus transfers departing at 16:55 direct from Athenry to Galway, second bus transfer departing at 16:55 from Athenry to Oranmore and Galway

Tuesday 28th October

• 05:25 Galway to Dublin Heuston will be bus transfers departing at 04:55 direct from Galway to Athenry, second bus transfer departing at 04:55 from Galway to Oranmore and Athenry, train departing at 05:44 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston
• 06:25 Galway to Dublin Heuston will operate as and will be bus transfers departing at 05:55 direct from Galway to Athenry, train departing at 06:43 from Athenry to Dublin Heuston

Gardaí in Galway seized over €105,000 worth of tobacco, cigarettes, and counterfeit goods in multiple searches in Ballybane this week.

As part of an Operation Tombola, Gardaí attached to the Community Policing Unit in Galway Garda Station conducted an operation in Ballybane on Thursday, October 23.

Multiple homes and vehicles were searched, during which Gardaí seized in excess of €55,000 worth of tobacco and cigarettes.

A large quantity of counterfeit goods was also seized, which included in excess of €50,000 of counterfeit electronic goods.

A large number of Fireworks and a large quantity of counterfeit designer clothing was also seized.

A man, aged in his 50s, was arrested in connection with this seizure. He has since been released from custody, and a file will be prepared for the DPP.

Galway City Council is now accepting applications for the Community Climate Action fund for community groups to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and help decarbonise the City.

The funding will support small (up to €20,000), medium (€21,000-€50,000), and large-scale (€51,000-€100,000) community climate action projects in five key theme areas:  energy, travel, food and waste, shopping, and nature.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr. Mike Cubbard said, “Climate change is the most significant challenge to all communities in Galway City.”

“I welcome this new fund as an important further step in delivering our 2030 targets and progressing towards a climate neutral Galway City by 2050 in line with Ireland’s Climate Action Plan targets.’’

Speaking about the fund, Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, said, “This is a welcome grant for community groups that are hoping to play their part in tackling climate change.”

“Retrofitting, solar panels, community gardens, tree planting, cycle parking and innovative climate projects are just some of the examples of what can be applied for with this grant.’’

Examples of eligible groups include local charities, community centres, local environmental groups, sports clubs and social enterprises.

Prior to applying, groups are strongly encouraged to contact the Galway City Council’s Community Climate Action Officer to discuss their ideas at 091 536 400 or Climate@GalwayCity.ie 

Applications are now open online at www.GalwayCity.ie/CommunityClimateActionFund

The deadline to apply is 5pm on Friday, December 12.

A mother living with multiple sclerosis insists there should be more awareness of hidden disabilities so that people in Galway with conditions like hers do not feel stigmatised.

Louise Power, a mum-of-two, was diagnosed with MS ten years ago following the birth of her second child, though her symptoms began years earlier.

Now she is encouraging families, schools, book clubs, workplaces and groups of all ages across Galway to get on board and support the MS Readathon, which runs from November 1 to December 15.

Readers across the county collectively raised €5123 in 2024, with Scoil Íde, Ardnamara, taking the top spot with their incredible fundraising total of €1115.

Fatigue, pain and muscle weakness, as well as muscle spasms and brain fog, are among the symptoms Ms Power experiences and on some days she needs a walking aid for mobility.

“I participated in the MS Readathon in school in the early 90s – I had no idea what MS was at the time, but I was really driven by the idea that my reading and raising money would help someone else out there,” she said.

She said while her condition is debilitating and impacts many aspects of her life, by linking in with a community worker from MS Ireland, engaging with physiotherapy services and talking to other people living with it, her quality of life improved.

“The services were a game changer and made me feel like I’m not on my own – for me it was like a hug I didn’t know I needed,” said the Mayo-based mum.

“If you are newly diagnosed, no matter what age you are, a simple conversation with someone walking the same path means you can breathe that little bit easier.

“I owe a lot to MS Ireland in terms of the support they give me and the awareness they spread about the illness – with everything from physiotherapy and community groups to simple guides to help kids understand MS, helping make life a little easier.”

One of Ireland’s longest-running charity events, the MS Readathon has inspired a love of reading among young people across the country for the past 39 years.

After registering at msreadathon.ie, participants are encouraged to read as many books as possible between November 1 and December 15, while seeking sponsorship from family and friends.

These funds help support over 11,000 people living with MS and their families, according to MS chief executive, Ava Battles.

“We are looking for schools throughout Ireland to sign up for MS Readathon and use our support materials to set reading challenges for pupils that will inspire their imaginations and create a positive habit that can last a lifetime,” she said.

“And it’s not just schools that share the joy of the MS Readathon – families, book clubs, workplaces and groups of all ages will be helping us to raise vital funds for essential services for the MS community in Ireland.”

For more information on how to register, go to www.msreadathon.ie.

The search for missing Galway man Martin Ward has come to an end after the discovery of a man’s body this week.

Gardaí had made a public appeal for information regarding Ward, aged 48, who had been missing from Tuam, Co. Galway, since Monday, October 6.

That search has now been stood down following the discovery of a body in the search.

Gardaí thanked the public for their assistance in this matter.

The 2025 Croí Night Run, sponsored by Benecol, lit up the Salthill Promenade on Friday night as hundreds of runners, walkers, and joggers came together to raise vital funds in support of Croí’s lifesaving work in the fight against heart disease and stroke.

The 5K event, now in its 11th year, sold out very early and saw a sea of lucky participants donning their official Croí Night Run t-shirts as they took to Galway’s most iconic running route under the night sky.

TV personality Dáithí Ó Sé was among those cheering on participants and helping to create a festival-like atmosphere on the prom.

In addition to the flagship Galway run, satellite events were held in Headford, Craughwell and Ros a Mhíl in Co. Galway, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, Charlestown, Co. Mayo and Aughnacliffe in Co. Longford.

Many more people joined in virtually from across Ireland and further afield, including Dublin, Cork, Kerry, Waterford, and as far away as Boston, USA.

Speaking after the event, Christine Flanagan, Director of Fundraising at Croí, said, “We are truly humbled by the incredible support for this year’s Croí Night Runs.”

“Every single person who took part – whether on the Prom, at one of our satellite events, or from anywhere around the world – has made a direct impact in helping us continue to provide free heart and stroke prevention, education, and patient support services.”

“The atmosphere on the night was electric, and it was inspiring to see communities unite for heart health.”

Laura O’Connell, Senior Brand Manager at Benecol, partner for the event, added, “We’re delighted to support the Croí Night Run again this year and to see such an incredible turnout both in Galway and across the world!

“Benecol is committed to promoting heart health, and this event is a fantastic example of how people can come together to raise awareness and take action for a healthier future.”

Funds raised from the Croí Night Run will go directly towards supporting Croí’s online and in person community initiatives, patient education programmes, and free health checks, ensuring that more people can live longer, healthier lives free from heart disease and stroke.

Croí extends its gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and supporters who made the 2025 Night Run an outstanding success.

The latest research into commercial calf rearing, including how fat content, composition and volume of milk can have a game-changing impact on the first few weeks of an animal’s life, will be revealed during an Ireland-wide roadshow, including an event in Ballinasloe.

Organised by Trouw Nutrition, the week-long LifeStart Calf Innovation Roadshow offers farmers, vets, calf specialists, feed advisors and breeding consultants the chance to discover how science has led to innovative yet practical solutions which dramatically elevate calf health and performance.

With events taking place in Meath, Cork, Galway and Tipperary from November 6 – 13, the roadshow brings together experts from Trouw, SCCL Colostrum and Teemore Engineering to present a best practice insight into calf rearing – covering everything from colostrum feeding to nutrition and housing.

The sessions will also reveal how Trouw’s LifeStart Science platform has led to the development of Milkivit ONE, the first energised calf milk replacer to utilise the patent-pending LactoFat Pro technology to optimise calf development and resilience.

The free roadshow event in Galway will take place in Ballinasloe at the Shearwater Hotel on Monday, November 10 at 10:15am.

Following trials with Irish dairy farmers, and ahead of the spring calving season, Milkivit ONE will be launched to the local market as part of the Roadshow.

It has already gained widespread traction, exceeding all expectations in GB and Northern Ireland.

Encouraging farmers to register for one of the five local events, which are free to attend, Dr Aaron Brown, Commercial Calf Nutritionist for Trouw, said, “This roadshow is a great opportunity to gain a holistic insight into calf management”.

“And to better understand how cutting-edge research is being applied to the products and innovations which are driving on-farm productivity and profitability.”

“We look forward to welcoming all who are ready to push the boundaries and elevate their on-farm performance.”

The 2025 I Wish Survey has found that more than half of girls in single-sex schools see limited subject choice as a barrier to pursuing STEM.

The annual 2025 Survey of Female Students’ Attitudes to STEM by I Wish — a national non-profit that empowers girls to see the potential of STEM — also reveals stark differences between single-sex and mixed schools.

Among the 2,335 Transition Year female students surveyed in single-sex schools, just 5% reported access to Construction Studies and 6% to Engineering, compared with 84% and 74% respectively in mixed schools.

This trend reflects the national outlook, with the Department of Education’s 2024 Indicator Report showing that only 71% of girls’ schools offer at least one STEM subject beyond Maths or Science, compared with 96% of boys’ schools.

These findings highlight the structural barriers that continue to shape subject choice for girls in single-sex schools, limiting early exposure to key STEM pathways.

The report calls for urgent action to ensure equal access to STEM education for every girl in Ireland. Central to this mission is the 11th annual I Wish Festival, taking place on 5 February 2026 at the RDS Dublin, which will bring together over 4,000 students to hear from leading female voices in global STEM industries.

I Wish co-founder, Gillian Keating added, “We’re seeing real progress as more young women than ever before are pursuing STEM at third level, and that’s something to celebrate.”

“But this year’s findings make it clear that the pipeline is still too narrow at the start. Limited subject choices, particularly in single-sex schools, continue to restrict girls’ opportunities. Exposure drives opportunity.”

“The I Wish Festival is part of that journey a vibrant, high-energy space where girls can experience STEM in action, meet inspiring women, and start to imagine their own futures in these fields.”

After a successful two-year pilot, I Wish have announced a new partnership with Logitech to scale its Primary Programme, which helps boost girls’ confidence in STEM from a younger age through alumni talks, industry visits and hands-on experiments.

Participation in the programme grew by 38% in 2025, reaching 265 students. However, confidence remains a concern — just half (49%) of students at a primary level said they felt good at maths only sometimes, while 17% were not confident in STEM.

I Wish co-founder, Caroline O’Driscoll said, “Early intervention is critical. Almost half of the students express a growing anxiety about maths, and that’s a concern.”

“On a more positive note, 50% of students want more STEM activities in the classroom, with 95% of girls saying they believed that girls can be just as good as boys in STEM. That curiosity and confidence need to be nurtured.”

“Interestingly, we are also seeing a really strong link between sport and confidence. The data shows a clear difference: girls who play sport are more confident in STEM subjects, school life, and even speaking up in class — often by 10 to 15 percentage points.”

“Building that connection between sport and STEM helps develop resilience, teamwork and problem-solving skills that open the door to underrepresented STEM fields.”

The I Wish 2025 Survey of Female Students’ Attitudes to STEM sets out a roadmap for change, calling for early access to STEM education for all girls, extending through to secondary school, where structural barriers in timetabling and subject choice must be addressed.

The report urges stronger links between classroom learning and real-world experience — from applied STEM activities and industry engagement to dedicated Transition Year events that normalise participation.

It advocates for more creative approaches to representing STEM, including relatable social media content and initiatives that link STEM with sports.

To support greater access to the 2025 I Wish Festival, Iarnród Éireann will once again partner with I Wish, offering free rail transport from 15 locations across Ireland.

Iarnród Éireann CEO, Mary Considine, said, “We are proud to continue our partnership with I Wish, ensuring that young girls from all corners of Ireland can access this vital and inspiring event.”

“Together, we want to forge a future where every girl can confidently envision herself succeeding in STEM – creating a country of equal opportunities for girls and women strengthens us as an employer and as a service provider, and our society and economy as a whole.”

Visit www.iwish.ie/surveys/ to read the I Wish 2025 Survey Report in full.