An Cheathrú Rua included in housing initiative for Gaeltacht areas

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December 15, 2023

Galway Daily news missing teen found safe

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses after shots were fired at a property in Ballinasloe in the early hours of this morning.

A number of shots were fired in Garbally Oaks, Ballinasloe at around 3am, causing damage to property. Nobody was injured during the incident.

Investigating Gardaí in Ballinasloe Garda Station are appealing to any person who may have information in relation to this incident to contact them.

Any person who was the area of Garbally Oaks between 3am and 4am this morning Wednesday 15 December, and who may have mobile phone or dash cam footage, is asked to make this available to Gardaí.

Any person who may have information or footage is asked to contact Ballinasloe Garda Station on 090 963 1890, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Investigations are ongoing.

Gardaí investigating shots fired at house in Ballinasloe

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December 15, 2023

Galway Daily news Man dies after car goes into the water

Gardaí are investigating after a number of gunshots were fired at a house in Ballinasloe in the early hours of Friday morning.

At approximately 3am this morning a number of shots were discharged at a residential property in Garbally Oaks, Ballinasloe.

Criminal damage occurred at the property and no persons were injured during the incident.

Investigating Gardaí in Ballinasloe Garda Station are appealing for anyone who may have information in relation to this incident to contact them.

Any person who was in the area of Garbally Oaks between 3am and 4am this morning Friday, December, 15 and who may have mobile phone or dash cam footage, is asked to make this available to Gardaí.

Any person who may have information or footage is asked to contact Ballinasloe Garda Station on 090 963 1890, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

HSE urging parents to cocoon young babies as RSV and flu spreads

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December 15, 2023

The HSE is urging people to help limit the spread of RSV and flu by cocooning very young babies, covering coughs and making sure all vaccines are up-to-date.

The call comes amid a rise in RSV and flu infections, which are circulating at very high levels.

In the last week, there has been a 60% increase in the number of confirmed flu cases and a doubling of the number of patients who require admission to hospital due to flu.

The health service is currently managing 23 outbreaks of respiratory illness in hospitals across the country.

Dr Áine McNamara of HSE West and North West said that most cases of RSV and flu can be cared for at home, and usually clears between two and three weeks without treatment.

“Stay home from crèche, school or work and ask your pharmacist for advice on medicines. However, parents and caregivers should be vigilant of symptoms, trust their instincts and always contact their GP if they are worried, especially if the symptoms get worse quickly,” said Dr McNamara.

Last week also saw the highest weekly number of cases of RSV and the highest weekly hospitalisations caused by RSV in Ireland. This year has surpassed the peak of last year’s RSV surge.

“The best advice comes back to respiratory etiquette, covering coughs and sneezes, alongside regular handwashing,” added Dr McNamara.

“All very important to limit the spread of respiratory illness. We advise people with babies, particularly very young babies, to try to cocoon them and avoid having them in large crowds, or near people with cold and respiratory symptoms. If your child is sick, keep them away from other children and vulnerable adults where possible.”

The free nasal spray flu vaccine is available to all children aged between 2 and 17 from GPs and pharmacists.

Plans to establish National Peatland Centre in Galway

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December 15, 2023

galway daily news national peatland centre at university of galway

University of Galway has announced plans to establish the National Peatland Centre of Excellence to help tackle national and global challenges related to peatlands.

The plans follow a successful ‘Peatland Futures’ event held at the university, which brought together government departments, universities and community and farming organisations to discuss the future of peatland research.

A crucial component of Peatland Futures was the collective call to action for wetland and peatland restoration and conservation.

Dr Terry Morley, Assistant Professor and organiser of the Peatland Futures event, said that Ireland has world-class peatland research and expertise.

“It’s time we act to increase our collective capacity for research, public outreach and dissemination, and to train the next generation of peatland practitioners,” said Dr Morley.

“The University of Galway is uniquely situated with blanket and raised bogs at our doorstep and broad interdisciplinary peatland research expertise.”

Jack Carty claiming 200th cap for Connacht this weekend

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December 15, 2023

Galway Daily sport Jack Carty claiming 200th cap for Connacht this weekend

Jack Carty will be making his 200th appearance for Connacht when he captains the side facing the Saracens this weekend.

Connacht are headed to London where they will face the English team in the Champions Cup on Saturday.

It’s been more than a decade since Carty first debuted for Connacht in 2012. In that time he has become the club’s all-time high point scorer.

He will now become the sixth player to reach the 200 cap milestone for the province, after John Muldoon, Michael Swift, Denis Buckley, Kieran Marmion and Tiernan O’Halloran.

Another welcome addition to the starting XV tomorrow is Gavin Thornbury, back in action after a year since he suffered a serious knee injury against Brive last season.

In addition, Shayne Bolton, who joined Connacht in 2021 from his native South Africa, will be making his first appearance of the season.

Also coming into the starting 15 from last weekend are props Jordan Duggan and Jack Aungier, flanker Conor Oliver, number 8 Paul Boyle, centre Tom Farrell and full-back John Porch.

Commenting ahead of the game, head coach Pete Wilkins said, “As players and coaches we were very blunt in our review of last weekend, with honesty and ownership about how the game got away from us.”

“The reaction from the group in training this week has been excellent and we look forward to getting out there and delivering a performance befitting of our ambitions this season.”

“Saracens are a world-class outfit with a fine European pedigree, so there’s no better place to challenge ourselves and show what we’re about.”

CONNACHT RUGBY MATCHDAY 23 VS SARACENS
13:00, Saturday, December 16 – StoneX Stadium

15. John Porch (183)
14. Byron Ralston (23)
13. Tom Farrell (103)
12. Bundee Aki (128)
11. Shayne Bolton (5)
10. Jack Carty (199) (C)
9. Caolin Blade (178)
1. Jordan Duggan (42)
2. Dave Heffernan (185)
3. Jack Aungier (56)
4. Darragh Murray (15)
5. Gavin Thornbury (71)
6. Cian Prendergast (54)
7. Conor Oliver (70)
8. Paul Boyle (86)

16. Dylan Tierney-Martin (30)
17. Denis Buckley (235)
18. Finlay Bealham (193)
19. Joe Joyce (7)
20. Jarrad Butler (118)
21. Michael McDonald (1)
22. JJ Hanrahan (7)
23. Diarmuid Kilgallen (21)

Search for missing Clifden man ends after body found

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December 15, 2023

The search for a man reported missing from Clifden has been stood down this morning after the discovery of a body.

John Hand (38) was reported missing from the Clifden area this week.

An Garda Síochána have now called off the search after the discovery of a body in the Moycullen area.

A statement from An Garda Síochána thanked the public for their assistance in this matter.

Plans progressing for Knocknacarra social housing development

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December 15, 2023

Plans are progressing for the construction of a neighbourhood centre and social housing scheme in Knocknacarra.

An Bord Pleanála has removed a speedbump from Galway City Council’s social housing plans by ruling that a Natura Impact Statement is not required for the development.

The city council intends to build the social housing project on the northwest side of the city, on a 1.8ha site at Ballyburke, Knocknacarra.

The estate would consist of 13 houses and 71 apartments, along with a public plaza and neighbourhood centre.

The council prepared an Appropriate Assessment Screening Report and sought direction from An Bord Pleanála whether a further Appropriate Assessment or NIS was needed.

The council’s position was that no significant environmental impacts would arise from the development and that it should proceed to the next phase of the planning process.

An Bord Pleanála determined that, based on the information available, the development would not impact any protected conservation areas.

Therefore a Natura Impact Statement is not required to be prepared, clearing the way for the project to proceed to the planning process.

ATU Galway art graduate wins prestigious ‘Taylor Art Award’

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December 15, 2023

ATU Galway art graduate Taim Haimet has won the prestigious Taylor Art Award’ at the Royal Dublin Society Visual Art Awards.

The recent graduate of Atlantic Technological University School of Design and Creative Arts in Galway specialises in 3D studies, which encompasses Sculpture, Digital Media and Ceramics.

The award was presented to her at a ceremony held at the Irish Museum of Modern Art on Thursday, December 7 last week.

Immersed in a rich history of Irish art, the RDS Taylor Art Prize (€10,000) is the premier award of the RDS Visual Art Awards.

Previous winners (1878 – 2022) include Walter Osborne, Sir William Orpen, Seán Keating, Nora McGuinness and Louis le Brocquy alongside contemporary artists such as Eamon O’Kane, Dorothy Cross and James Hanley.

The Taylor Art Award is given annually to a graduate of an Irish art college or an Irish art student graduating from an art college abroad to assist them with the development of their career as a visual artist.

The Judging panel of the RDS Visual Art Awards decide upon the winner.

Taim, who is a French student of Syrian descent, is now enrolled on the MA in Creative Practice at ATU Galway city – Wellpark Road campus.

“It is an incredible honour to receive the Taylor Arts Award. If you had told me a year ago I would be blessed with such an opportunity I would have never believed it!”

“I am delighted to be bringing it home to Galway. It is also a recognition for our college and the incredible work our lecturers do with us.”

“I am immensely grateful to my lecturers Ger Leslie, Louise Manifold and Katherine West, who supported and encouraged me when I doubted myself. They went out of their way to facilitate my work coming to life.”

“Being a smaller art college we have this closeness between students and lecturers. We can cross between disciplines and find support when we need it. I hope we get to see many more ATU students in the RDS in the coming years!’’

Gerard Leslie, lecturer in Sculpture said, “We are very proud that again one of our students has achieved such high recognition for their work. Taim’s work stood out as exceptional alongside the other 14 nominees selected.”

“Awards of this nature help reinforce the significance and importance of creativity and ambition. Awards help sustain successful graduates in the primary ventures of their practice.”

“Fundamentally and most importantly they underpin graduate confidence in asserting their role and identity as an ‘artist’ addressing the social frameworks of where we exist”, added Ger Leslie.

Planning refused for supermarket and housing estate in Athenry

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December 15, 2023

Galway Daily news Planning permission refused for Athenry supermarket and housing estate

An Bord Pleanála has refused planning permission for a mixed development of homes, shops, and a supermarket in Athenry.

Ghost Zapper Ltd, part of the Comer Group, sought approval to build 59 houses and apartments, as well as a Lidl supermarket and three other commercial units.

The development was to be on a site at the south-east of Athenry, next to the Clarin River, and close to the protected structure Athenry House.

Galway County Council ultimately refused planning permission for the project due to concerns about its impact on Athenry House, lack of assimilation with the area, flood risks, and road safety hazards.

This decision was appealed to An Bord Pleanála by the developer in April 2022.

An oral hearing on the appeal was held in October 2022 at the Raheen Woods Hotel in Athenry at the appellant’s request.

The residential element of this proposal was to consist of 28 three and four-bed houses and 31 apartments.

The business side of the project would include one building with two commercial units, a separate café building, and a supermarket with 2,662m² of commercial floor space.

The developer also intended to demolish a derelict outbuilding of Athenry House and refurbish the old country house as a community and heritage centre.

Access to the estate was to be via Swan Gate, with a pedestrian entrance at the corner of Clarke Street and Cross Street via the existing Athenry House gate.

An Bord Pleanála’s inspector recommended that the development be approved, but the board ultimately overruled that recommendation to refuse planning once again.

The board agreed with the inspector that the reasons for refusal based on concerns about flooding, traffic, car parking, and tree removal were not warranted.

However, planning permission was refused due to the proximity of the supermarket at the northern end of the site to Athenry House.

“In deciding not to accept the Inspector’s recommendation, the Board shared the concerns of the planning authority regarding the mass, volume, and scale of the supermarket unit towards the northern end of the development.”

The decision went on to say that, “The lack of adequate separation distance from the protected structure would detract from the visual amenity of the area and would be contrary to proper planning and sustainable development of the area.”

Galwegians provide 20,000 meals for local families in need

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December 14, 2023

galway daily news deliveroo and foodcloud providing food to those in need

More than 20,000 meals have been donated to people in Galway experiencing food insecurity thanks to a partnership between Deliveroo Ireland and the charity FoodCloud.

The meals have been distributed to vulnerable people and families in Galway by local charities such as Cope Galway, Forum Connemara CLG, and Ballinasloe Social Services thanks to the partnership, which began in 2022.

The partnership, which is part of Deliveroo Ireland’s global Full Life campaign, aims to provide half a million meals for FoodCloud’s network of 650 community and voluntary groups across Ireland by 2024.

Full Life aims to use Deliveroo’s unique network of riders, grocers, restaurants, and customers for good and support the local communities in Ireland where it operates.

Galway Deliveroo customers have backed the campaign by making donations to FoodCloud when placing orders on the Deliveroo app.

An in-app charity donation option allows customers to add a ’round-up’ donation to their orders. This rounds up an order total to the nearest euro, with all proceeds going to FoodCloud. For every €1 raised, 3.2 meals are provided to people facing food insecurity.

Speaking about the partnership, Helen Maher, Regional Director at Deliveroo Ireland, said they are pleased to have achieved the significant milestone of providing more than 20,000 meals for vulnerable people across Galway.

“We couldn’t have achieved this without the incredible support of our customers, partners and riders,” she said.

“Deliveroo’s commitment to supporting Irish charities remains firm and we will continue to offer our support to local organisations by donating meals and raising funds for groups like Cope Galway, Forum Connemara CLG, and Ballinasloe Social Services.”

Angela Ruttledge, Head of Public Engagement at FoodCloud added: “It’s been a pleasure to collaborate with Deliveroo Ireland on its Full Life Campaign, promoting awareness of food insecurity across the country.

“By mobilising its customers to donate, Deliveroo Ireland is helping to ensure vulnerable people have access to healthy and nutritious meals.”

Gardaí appeal for missing man from Clifden

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December 14, 2023

Gardaí are seeking the public’s help in tracing the whereabouts of 38-year-old John Hand, who is missing from Clifden in Galway since Wednesday, 13 December.

John is described as being 5’ 10” in height, of medium build with short brown hair.

When last seen, John was wearing a blue hooded top and blue jeans.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Clifden Garda Station on 095 22500, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Exhibition of Galway student’s artwork launched at Ceannt Station

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December 14, 2023

galway daily news artwork by mary o'connor at ceannt station in galway

Iarnród Éireann has launched an exhibition of paintings at Ceannt Station by Mary O’Connor, a 6th year student in Holy Rosary College, Mountbellew.

Mary is a talented and creative student who is neurodivergent, expressing her emotions and feelings through her artwork with stunning results.

This collection showcases the diversity of neurodivergent people and the range of creativity that can be harnessed through art.

Mary’s exhibition has come about as part of her participation in a transition pilot as part of the Business in the Community Ireland’s Comprehensive Employment Strategy 2015-2024.

The pilot seeks to improve access to, and opportunities for, a positive and successful transition to post-school life.

Business in the Community Ireland are working with schools to support the career readiness of students through guest speakers, workshops, CV preparation, interview skills, site visits and work experiences.

Speaking at the launch, CX Manager for the Galway Region, Derrick Curran said that we are not all the same, and through recognising that – we can embrace and come together within our differences and all shine together.

“Mary allows us into her mind with this portrayal of her art,” he said.

“At Iarnród Éireann are delighted to showcase Mary’s amazing talents. It has given Mary a voice, but also showcases to our customers the positive contribution that neurodivergent people can make to our community.”

Family of cows to moove to Ballyloughane in exciting project

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December 14, 2023

galway daily news dexter cow in biodiversity project

An exciting new biodiversity project will see Ballyloughane become the new home of a family of Dexter cows in the new year.

Working with a local farmer, Galway City Council will bring eight cows to graze the headland east of Ballyloughane Beach until March 2024, as part of the ‘Buaile Bó Ballyloughane’ project.

Local schools and community groups are being invited to take part in an ambassador programme to share information about the native Irish breed and its relationship to biodiversity.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Eddie Hoare, said that Galway City Council is delighted to launch the ‘Buaile Bó Ballyloughane’ project with the arrival of eight lovely little cows into Ballyloughane.

He said that local residents and school children will have a chance to learn about the animals, and how they help support wildflowers, pollinators and biodiversity underground, by grazing on the long grass around the headland.

“Galway City Council is engaging with local schools and community groups to participate in an ambassador programme to share information about the cows, agriculture and its relationship to Irish biodiversity,” he said.

“The ambassadors will be provided with a printed vest and hat to show their participation in the project and their willingness to share details of the project with members of the public. I hope that anyone who is interested in finding out about the project will drop by and say hello!”

Paula Kearney, Galway City Biodiversity Officer, said that Dexter cows work very well for conservation and biodiversity projects because they are hardy, and relatively small, and therefore not severe on the land.

“They are good ‘browsers’ and can live on low-quality vegetation and forage for their food,” he said.

“Grazing the long grass in Ballyloughane over winter will help to provide good conditions for wildflowers such as Knapweed, Red Clover, Birds-foot trefoil, and Meadowsweet to establish in the spring – as the grass is kept low, and the cows are removing thatch and creating small patches of bare ground for wildflowers.

“When the Dexter cows move to other pastures in the summer, we hope to see a species-rich meadow establish in this area, with a diversity of native Irish flora, in turn attracting pollinators such as bees, hoverflies, butterflies, moths and other beneficial insects and wildlife such as frogs and hedgehogs.

“We are delighted to be working with local councillors, schools, active retirement groups, residents and GAA as part of this project, and look forward to seeing what impact our newest residents will have on biodiversity in Ballyloughane.”

Workshops and information sessions for local schools and residents will take place in the new year to introduce and discuss the project, and to hear feedback.

100m of road closed in Leitir Mealláin today due to damage

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December 14, 2023

Galway daily news Seven week road closure in downtown Galway City

A section of a road in Leitir Mealláin in Connemara is closed today as engineers assess damage to the road embankment.

Damage on the road at Cnoc, Leitir Mealláin has left 100 metres of the road closed to traffic.

Local access is limited as far as the location from Tír na Fhia crossroad and from Baile na Cille crossroad on the R374. There is no through road.

Galway County Council engineers are currently assessing the damage to the embankment.

Updates to follow…

Galway represented at luxury travel market in Cannes

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December 14, 2023

galway daily news toruism businesses from ireland in cannes — Tourism businesses from Ireland at ILTM in Cannes, including Carol Hinch, Ballynahinch Castle (standing, eighth left); with Natasha Johnston (standing, left), Siobhan Naughton (standing, third left), Olivia Frawley (seated, third left) and Juliet Dillon (standing, right), all Tourism Ireland. Pic – Tourism Ireland

Galway’s Ballynahinch Castle was among 26 tourism businesses from Ireland in attendance at the annual International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) in Cannes last week.

The luxury travel event attracted over 1,800 influential travel buyers and decision-makers who design unique, luxury itineraries for international clients from nearly 100 countries.

Luxury travel editors and journalists from international publications were also in attendance.

The four-day ILTM event – which took place at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes – involved a programme of bespoke one-to-one appointments and networking sessions.

Tourism Ireland unveiled its new proposition for the international luxury travel trade: ‘Ireland, where luxury comes naturally’.

It aims to dial up the ‘natural’ elements of a luxury holiday here, given that Ireland is a destination where luxury and splendour do come naturally.

Louise Finnegan, Tourism Ireland’s Acting Central Marketing Director, said that this year they saw the largest-ever participation of luxury tourism providers from Ireland at ILTM in Cannes.

“The event was an excellent opportunity to showcase the superb luxury tourism offering right around Ireland – from our boutique hotels, castles and luxury resorts to our rich culture and heritage and not forgetting our world-class golf and superb culinary scene,” she said.

“The format of one-to-one appointments allowed our partners from Ireland to network and do business with new and established luxury travel buyers from around the world – ensuring Ireland is ‘top of mind’ for those buyers in 2024 when recommending destinations to their clients.”

Louise Finnegan said that Tourism Ireland was delighted to unveil our their proposition for the luxury travel trade – ‘Ireland, where luxury comes naturally’.

“Ireland is a destination where luxury and splendour come naturally – in our rich green hills, warmth of welcome and age-old culture of hospitality, as well as the wealth of our natural produce. Our message is that Ireland is the perfect place for visitors to refuel, revive and fill their hearts.”

Let’s Dive Into The Galway International Oyster Festival Experience

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Thomas O'Brien

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December 14, 2023

Galway daily news The science behind our Seafood

Nestled on the western coast of Ireland, Galway stands as a cultural jewel, weaving a tapestry of traditions, arts, and festivities. Steeped in a rich history that echoes through its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture, Galway is a city that breathes life into Ireland’s vibrant heritage. Galway’s cultural calendar stands for the Galway International Oyster Festival (GIOF), a celebration that transcends culinary boundaries to become a testament to the city’s spirit. It’s more than an event; it’s a cultural phenomenon that captures the essence of Galway’s love for tradition, gastronomy, and communal celebration.

The Oyster: From Harvest To Plate

Galway, blessed with a rugged coastline and nutrient-rich waters, boasts an oyster industry that is as resilient as the waves that lap its shores. The city’s connection with oysters dates back centuries, with Galway Bay providing an ideal habitat for these molluscs to thrive. Today, the oyster industry stands as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between the sea and the city.

Oyster farms dotting the bay contribute to the region’s reputation as a prime oyster-producing area. These farms, often family-owned and operated, adhere to sustainable practices that ensure the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem. Through careful cultivation, Galway has become synonymous with high-quality oysters, sought after by chefs and connoisseurs worldwide. The journey from seabed to festival plate is a meticulous process that requires a delicate touch and a deep understanding of the sea’s rhythms.

Flavours And Culinary Delights

The GIOF transforms Galway into a culinary playground, where oysters take centre stage in a variety of innovative and traditional dishes. From classic pairings with mignonette sauce to bold experiments with exotic toppings, each oyster dish tells a unique story of culinary creativity and expertise. Imagine savouring oysters adorned with zesty citrus, earthy herbs, or the subtle heat of local spices. Some may be served raw, allowing the purity of the Galway Bay waters to shine through, while others are masterfully grilled or baked, offering a contrast of textures and flavours that showcase the versatility of this seafood gem. Attendees can embark on a culinary journey that transcends geographical boundaries, as international chefs bring their interpretations to the oyster experience. The GIOF becomes a melting pot of global influences, uniting diverse culinary traditions under the common theme of oyster appreciation.

Cultural Highlights

Beyond the delectable gastronomy that defines the Galway International Oyster Festival (GIOF), the event is a kaleidoscope of cultural richness, seamlessly blending culinary excellence with the vibrant traditions that make Galway a cultural powerhouse. As attendees revel in the flavours of fresh oysters, they are also treated to a symphony of cultural events and performances that add an extra layer of depth to the festival experience.

The GIOF is not merely a feast for the palate; it’s a celebration that engages all the senses. Throughout the festival, attendees can immerse themselves in diverse cultural events, from traditional music performances to contemporary art installations. GIOF also serves as a platform for international trade meetings and insights, Tourists find the chance to meet with potential clients and discuss new market trends and insights like gas profit and emerging application of cryptocurrency.

Festival Atmosphere: Entertainment and Socializing

The Galway International Oyster Festival (GIOF) isn’t just a culinary celebration; it’s a lively and spirited carnival that transforms the city into a vibrant hub of entertainment, music, and social camaraderie. As attendees gather to indulge in the succulent offerings of fresh oysters, they find themselves immersed in an atmosphere that pulsates with energy and revelry.

From the moment one sets foot on the festival grounds, the air is electrified with an unmistakable sense of excitement. Laughter mingles with the lively tunes of traditional Irish music, creating a soundtrack that accompanies the entire festival experience. The aroma of freshly shucked oysters wafts through the air, creating an enticing ambience that beckons attendees to partake in the festivities. The festival grounds are adorned with colourful tents, each housing a unique culinary experience or cultural showcase.

Sum Up

The festival’s ability to transcend the ordinary and transform the appreciation of a humble mollusc into an art form is nothing short of extraordinary. As we conclude our exploration of the Galway International Oyster Festival, it becomes clear that this annual celebration is more than a culinary event; it is a cultural phenomenon that reflects the very soul of Galway. From the rhythmic tides of Galway Bay to the lively festival grounds, the GIOF serves as a showcase of the city’s resilience, creativity, and deep-rooted connection to its maritime heritage.

The unique experiences offered by the GIOF, from diverse oyster dishes to cultural performances and social gatherings, create lasting memories for locals and visitors alike. It is a celebration where tradition and innovation dance hand in hand, where the briny essence of the sea meets the vivacious spirit of a city that takes pride in its cultural identity.

Marine Institute welcomes appointment of Dr Rick Officer as new CEO

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December 13, 2023

Marine Institute , Corporate Photography Photo:Andrew Downes, xposure,

The Oranmore-based Marine Institute has announced the appointment of Dr Rick Officer as the new Chief Executive Officer.

Dr Officer takes the post of CEO of the state Agency for Marine Research, Technology Development, and Innovation six months after the retirement of Dr Paul Connolly from the role at the end of June.

He joins the Marine Institute from the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) where he held the position of Vice President for Research and Innovation.

Dr Officer said about his appointment, “Ireland’s marine environment and industries are under enormous and urgent pressures. The Marine Institute has a vital role to play in providing the evidence-base to enable adaptation to changing social, economic, and environmental conditions.”

“The excellent science and advice produced and supported by the Marine Institute are crucial to Ireland’s successful navigation of the major challenges of food security, climate adaptation and energy transition.”

“It is a great privilege and honour to lead the Marine Institute through this exciting period of change. I look forward to working with the dedicated team at the Marine Institute as we embrace these challenges and realise the opportunities that the oceans present.”

Dr Officer led the integration of Research and Innovation activities at the former Galway-Mayo, Sligo, and Letterkenny Institutes of Technology, through the merger into Atlantic Technological University.

He also led the establishment of the Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, now ATU’s largest Research Centre comprising roughly 100 people.

Dr Officer’s experience in international fisheries and aquaculture was gained through his Fisheries Scientist roles in Victoria and Tasmania, and his role as Science Leader for Fisheries and Aquaculture for the State of Queensland, Australia.

Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food, and the Marine announced the appointment this appointment this week.

“Much like the rest of the world, Ireland is at a crossroads where challenge meets opportunity in marine research and knowledge.”

“As we tackle national and global societal challenges, our marine resource offers significant opportunities for Ireland to prepare for the impacts of climate change, and food and energy security.”

“With Dr Officer’s extensive experience in sustainable fisheries, leading innovative and integrated research programmes and driving strategic collaborations nationally and internationally, the Marine Institute will continue to deliver the robust science and services to government and industry needed as we work towards delivering a knowledge-based, sustainable blue economy for Ireland,” Minister McConalogue said.

This is not the first work Dr Officer has done with the Marine Institute, as he previously led the demersal fisheries research and assessment team there.

As Demersal Fisheries Team Leader Dr Officer’s responsibilities included Chief Scientist roles aboard Ireland’s National research vessels, appointment as National Delegate to the European Commission’s Scientific, Technical & Economic Committee for Fisheries, and Chairmanship of International Working Groups and Expert Groups for the International Council for the Exploration of the Seas (ICES) and the European Commission.

Dr Officer will commence his appointment as Chief Executive Officer in early January 2024.

Planning sought for expansion of Tesco supermarket in Oranmore

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December 13, 2023

Plans for been submitted to Galway County Council for the expansion of Tesco supermarket in Oranmore.

Tesco currently operates a supermarket at Unit 1, An Tancaire, Oranmore with a gross floor space of 4,428 sqm.

The supermarket chain is now seeking planning permission from the county council to amalgamate to neighbouring retail units.

Adding Unit No. 3, with a floor space of 195 sqm, and Unit No. 4, which has a floor space of 164 sqm, would create a larger supermarket with a floor space of 4,797 sqm.

Other works would involve the addition of new signage on the eastern and southern elevations of the shopping complex, and replacing a door with windows.

The plans submitted by Tesco Ireland are currently at the pre-validation stage with the county council.

A decision on this planning application is due from Galway County Council by February 14, 2024.

Last year saw Tesco complete their acquisition and rebranding of Joyce’s supermarket chain in Galway, with nine new stores opening in Galway over a few months.

One of the conditions set by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission for approving the takeover was a requirement for Tesco to divest from the Oranmore Joyce’s store.

Aran Islands RNLI ready for first Christmas on call under new Coxswain

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December 13, 2023