Aoife Raftery impresses on rallycross debut at Lydden Hill

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November 6, 2023

galway daily news palestine meeting in galway city

People Before Profit will host a public meeting titled ‘Stop Israeli Oppression’ this Friday, 10 November, at 6.30pm at Áras na nGael in Galway City.

The meeting is on the topic of the ongoing Israeli bombardment of Gaza and actions we can take locally as part of the huge global movement of solidarity with the Palestinian people.

The speakers will include Palestinian human rights activist and legal researcher Ramez Hayek and People Before Profit candidate for Galway City Central Adrian Curran.

Ahead of the meeting, Adrian Curran said that Israel is committing mass murder in Gaza and yet world leaders talk about its right to defend itself.

“But how does continual bombardment of an area that is half the size of Louth constitute self-defence?” he asked.

“This is collective punishment of a population that one Israeli Minister has called ‘human animals’. It is a continuation of 75 years of ethnic cleansing of the population of the region, since the creation of the state of Israel backed by British colonialism.”

Curran said that Ireland has a proud history of anti-colonialism and people here overwhelmingly support the Palestinian struggle.

“Unfortunately the Irish government are not reflecting the will of the people. They refuse to take meaningful action to sanction and cut ties with the Israeli state, so the Irish pro-Palestine movement must increase the pressure on our government to take action.”

Man arrested following cannabis seizure in Offaly

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November 6, 2023

Galway Daily news Man dies after car goes into the water

Gardaí have seized €246,000 of suspected cannabis following the search of a premises in Clara, Co. Offaly on Saturday morning.

The search was conducted by Gardaí from the Laois / Offaly Divisional Drug Unit and Regular Unit with assistance from the DMR West Drugs Unit.

During the course of the search, approximately €246,000 of suspected cannabis herb was seized.

The drugs will undergo analysis by Forensic Science Ireland (FSI).

One man, aged in his 50s, was arrested and is currently detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act, 1996 at a Garda station in Co. Offaly.

Investigations are ongoing.

Young Galway man honoured for lifesaving work

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November 5, 2023

A young Galway man has been honoured for his volunteering work with the lifesaving Claddagh Watch Patrol community organisation.

Jamie Forde from Galway City was one of the recipients of the Individual Awards at the annual Garda Youth Awards this week.

Claddagh Watch Patrol is a group of hard working volunteers which was founded in 2019 to reduce the number of deaths on the water in Galway City.

Volunteers walk the banks of the River Corrib and canals that make up Galway City’s waterways to try and prevent deaths from accident or suicide.

Jamie joined the Claddagh Watch in 2021, and has been been a compassionate and dedicated member since then, the awards judges said.

“Since his first night on patrol, Jamie has been offering a listening ear and source of support to vulnerable people experiencing poor mental health near water in the city.”

“He has given countless voluntary hours to patrolling and preventing any loss of life, and training up new volunteers for the potentially upsetting situations that they may encounter.”

“Jamie has consistently proven himself to be a real team leader as part of Claddagh Watch Patrol, and a tremendous role model for others.”

“It takes a lot of courage and selflessness to put yourself in the face of danger for the sake of others wellbeing but that’s what drives Jamie and makes him such a worthy recipient of our Individual Award.”

The annual National Garda Youth Awards which recognise exceptional young people aged 13-21 who have positively contributed to their community were held in Portlaoise this week.

The awards were promoted and expanded by the then Assistant Commissioner, Anne Marie McMahon and who now as Deputy Commissioner continues to recognise the meaningful work of so many young people in communities all across Ireland.

October trolleys numbers in Galway hospitals lower than recent years

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November 5, 2023

Trolley numbers at both Portiuncula Hospital and University Hospital Galway in October have improved compared with previous years.

This was despite UHG being one of the most overcrowded hospitals in the country last month according to INMO figures.

At Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe there were a total of 31 patients on trolleys last months, the best figure since 2017.

Before that it was not until 2013, when there were 18 patients without a bed in October, when there was a lower figure.

At University Hospital Galway there was the much larger figure of 662 patients on trolleys last month.

This was the fourth highest level of hospital overcrowding in the country, but was an improvement on the same period in recent years.

Leaving aside the outlier year of 2020, when ED attendance plummeted during the pandemic lockdown, this is still the lowest figure for October since 2016.

Nationwide a total of 10,538 patients, including 273 children, went without a bed in Irish hospitals in October.

The worst affected were University Hospital Limerick (2,043), Cork University Hospital (1,034), Sligo University Hospital (730), University Hospital Galway (662), and Mater University Hospital (609).

INMO General Secretary Phil Ní Sheaghda said, “We are once again seeing an unacceptable amount of patients on trolleys the day after a bank holiday.”

“Over the three days of the weekend an additional 166 patients were admitted to hospital without beds. The system needs to get a grip on the out of control levels of overcrowding that occur following public holidays.”

She added that having more than 10,000 people on trolleys in October was concerning, noting that there was “acute pressure” on hospitals in the western seaboard.

“We know that there is less staff to deal with the growing demand in our health system that it has a knock on impact on both patient and staff safety.”

“Unsafe staffing levels are going to be a feature of this winter unless we see targeted recruitment and retention plans in each hospital and community care area to allow for more nurses and midwives to be recruited at the pace in which we need them.”

Public meetings on sustainable development of coastal communities

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November 5, 2023

A series of public meetings will take place across Galway next week to discuss the sustainable development of coastal and river areas.

The Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAG) are a community led programme working in tandem with Bord Iascaigh Mhara.

They seek to, “enhance the economic opportunities and social sustainability of Fisheries and Aquaculture dependent areas.”

FLAG West is carrying out a series of public consultations in Galway and Clare next Tuesday & Wednesday, November 7 – 8.

These will assist in developing a strategy to apply for grant funding from Priority 3 of the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund.

These meetings will address all topics including: Tourism, Aquaculture, Fisheries, and Community Groups, and how each can be helped.

They seek to hear from the public on what they think their area’s strengths are, and what challenges need to be addressed.

The meetings will take place on:

Tuesday, November 7

Ballinderreen Community Centre, South Galway – 2pm
The Quilty Tavern, Quilty West, Ennis Road – 6:30pm
An Crompán, Carraroe, Connemara – 6:30pm

Wednesday, November 8

Clifden Station House, Galway Rd, Clifden – 6pm

An online meeting is also taking place on November 7 at 6:30pm on Microsoft Teams.
Contact FLAG.strategies@ie.gt.com for more information.

New opportunities for Irish Creative Industry startups to excel globally

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November 5, 2023

CrewWDC-2657 — Pictured at the announcement of The Creative Business Cup, a prestigious international startup competition spanning more than 60 countries, which celebrates the synergy of innovation and entrepreneurship are Niamh Costello CEO of CREW (Creative Enterprise West), the Irish National Partner for the Global Creative Business Cup alongside Allan Mulrooney CEO Western Development Commission (WDC), CREW’s collaborative partner. Photo Martina Regan

The creative industries sector, with an estimated global growth rate of 7%, is brimming with potential, with startups taking the lead in this dynamic landscape in Ireland.

In a strategic move to support Irish creative industry startups in seizing global opportunities, CREW (Creative Enterprise West) has been select as the Irish National Partner for the Global Creative Business Cup.

This partnership is made possible through collaboration with the Western Development Commission.

CREW is a not for profit company established by then GMIT, The Western Development Commission and Galway Film Centre to develop and support the creative industries sectors along the Atlantic Economic Corridor.

This can include television, film, animation, game development, digital design, and many more creative enterprises with a digital and tech heavy element to them.

The Creative Business Cup is a prestigious international startup competition spanning more than 80 countries, celebrating the synergy of innovation and entrepreneurship.

It provides a platform for creative entrepreneurs, startups, and innovators worldwide to showcase their pioneering ventures to a global audience.

Participants in this esteemed competition vie for the title of the world’s best creative industry startup while benefiting from invaluable exposure, mentorship, and access to a robust network of international industry leaders and investors.

The call for the Creative Business Cup competition is specifically aimed at registered Irish startup creative entrepreneurs across various sectors, including animation, game design, digital arts, content creation, XR, interactive design, film and TV production, and startups focused on the creative digital and tech spheres.

Applications are now open, and all entry criteria for the Creative Business Cup can be found on www.crewdigital.ie

CREW will be hosting roadshow events at ConnectedHubs and Gteics through the West and North-West regions, and virtual information sessions for interested startups.

CREW’s Chief Executive, Niamh Costello, shared her excitement about the opportunities this Global partnership brings.

“We are thrilled to be chosen as the Irish National Partner for the Creative Business Cup. This collaboration represents a pivotal moment for the Irish creative ecosystem.”

“It will empower our creative entrepreneurs, enabling them to showcase their innovations globally while creating highly valuable connections with international mentors and investors who can propel their businesses to new heights.”

This experience includes the opportunity to pitch their business ideas at the Irish Creative Business Cup national competition, hosted at CREW’s Creative Enterprise Hub in Galway in March 2024.

Shortlisted startups will receive mentorship and a series of customised masterclasses to refine their pitches, before an Irish finalist is selected by a panel of judges.

The winner of the Irish Creative Business Cup will receive support to travel to Copenhagen to join creative businesses from over 80 countries at the global finals in June 2024.

Exceptional young Gort woman wins Garda National Youth Award

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November 5, 2023

Galway Daily news Exceptional young Gort woman wins Garda National Youth Award

An incredible young woman from Gort was one of the most exceptional young people of Ireland honoured at the Garda National Youth Awards this week.

Tara Rose Lynch from Gort was one of five recipients of the Community Safety Award for her work with Gort Neighbourhood Watch in honour of her father.

Tara’s father Brian Lynch set an example for his daughter by single handedly processing and advancing applications for pendant alarms on behalf of the elderly people living in their area.

Brian did all of this despite an ongoing cancer diagnosis, and when he passed away last year, Tara took up his mantle.

Despite her grief, and being in the middle of studying for her Leaving Cert, Tara carried on his work. Not only processing the applications for pendant alarms, but helping with their installation and explaining to elderly people how they work.

The judges said that though her work centres on the alarm pendants, Tara consistently goes “above and beyond” for the community.

“Though the main purpose of her voluntary work is to source the alarm systems for people, she is a friendly and comforting face that brings a lift to the people she visits.”

“They all know that she is in their corner, and that is the epitome of community spirit.”

The annual National Garda Youth Awards which recognise exceptional young people aged 13-21 who have positively contributed to their community were held in Portlaoise this week.

The awards were promoted and expanded by the then Assistant Commissioner, Anne Marie McMahon and who now as Deputy Commissioner continues to recognise the meaningful work of so many young people in communities all across Ireland.

Speaking on the day, Deputy Commissioner McMahon said, “Today is about recognising the dedication of young people – how they support one another and help their communities.”

“Each of today’s recipients demonstrates all that is great about our young people, and all of us in An Garda Síochána are very proud of their hard work which is done selflessly and enthuasticaly.”

“We hope today’s awards are a fitting acknowledgement of the very valuable contribution that these young people are making to society.”

Garda National Youth Award 2023 Recipients as selected by a national panel:

Community Safety Award
• Solas Project Youth Programme, Dublin South Central
• Young Social Innovators: The Thrill Can Kill, Carlow
• Banna Rescue: Amber Dunne and Eoin Buckley, Co. Kerry
• Handled With Hearts: Drumshambo Vocational School, Co. Leitrim
• Tara Rose Lynch, Gort Co. Galway

Special Achievement Award
• Latisha McCrudden, Roscommon/Longford
• Eoghan McCabe, Louth
• Sophie Lanigan, Dublin East
• Sarah and Rachel Bello, Carlow/Kilkenny
• Craig Byas, Dublin North Central
• Sara Marza, Cavan Monaghan
• Erin O’Sullivan, Tralee, Co. Kerry
• Jordan Behan, Dublin South Central

Group Award
• The Upcyclers: Castleisland Community College, Castleisland, Co. Kerry
• Yvonne Lynch and Farrah O’Shea, Bantry Co. Cork
• Hill Street Youth Leadership Group, Dublin North Central

Individual Award
• Heidi Harnedy, Cork West
• Jamie Forde, Galway
• Adam Lough, St Columba’s Comprehensive School, Glenties Co. Donegal
• Ailis Malone, Banagher, Co. Offaly
• Brian Cull, Arigna, Co. Leitrim
• Casey Cullinane, Knocknaheeny, Co. Cork

Special Recognition Award
• Mulroy College, Donegal
• Miley Doran, Carlow/Kilkenny
• Ian Flood, Tullamore, Co. Offaly

Woman in her 70s killed in traffic collision

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November 5, 2023

A woman in her 70s has been killed after being struck by a van in Co. Clare on Saturday evening.

Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a traffic collision at Moyasta between Kilrush and Kilkee yesterday.

The collision involving a van and a pedestrian occurred at approximately 7:10pm on the N67.

The pedestrian, a woman in her late 70s, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her body has since been removed to University Hospital Limerick where a post-mortem examination will be conducted. No other injuries to persons was reported.

A portion of the N67 at Moyasta is currently closed with local diversions in place. The services of Forensic Collision Investigators have been requested.

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

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling on the N67 in the Moyasta area between 7pm and 7:30pm are asked to make this footage available to Gardaí.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Kilrush Garda station on 065 9080550, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

Diana celebrates a hell of a rough birthday in Ros na Rún

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November 4, 2023

Galway Daily television Diana celebrates a hell of a rough birthday in Ros na Rún

Diana has a birthday for the record books, Réailtín and Laoise are breaking down, and Niall sparks divisive debate in Ros na Rún.

Diana celebrates her birthday. Well, maybe celebrates is the wrong word as Frankie leaves her feeling rattled, and she receives more threats from Terry.

A nasty attack sees Diana downplaying its seriousness with O’Shea, all the while she carries out her own investigation, and seeks her own revenge.

Bad times for Réailtín and Laoise both after Micheál’s test results come back. Réailtín’s resentment towards Laoise grows and Manus offers her a shoulder to cry on.

Meanwhile Laoise breaks down as she struggles to be the pillar of support her family needs right now.

Niall, about to hang in the towel on his radio show, unexpectedly sees his listenership skyrocket after he sparks a debate, and opinions are deeply divided.

Malachaí, concerned in the absence of Sadie’s usual peppy demeanor, comes to a realisation. He is completely out of his depth and Sadie is unrecognizable. How will he regain control of her?

A miscalculation throws a spanner in the works for an already frustrated John Joe. Manus gently suggests John Joe tell O’Shea the truth. But John Joe has yet another plan up his sleeve.

Catch up on all the latest from Ros na Rún this week in a double feature omnibus on TG4 this Sunday evening.

Annual meeting of County Joint Policing Committee next week

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November 4, 2023

Annual meeting of County Joint Policing Committee next week

A public meeting of the Galway County Joint Policing Committee will be held in Loughrea next week.

The meeting will be held in the Meadow Court Hotel, Clostoken, Loughrea at 7pm next Monday, November 6.

Members of the public affected by the policing of the County of Galway are invited to attend the JPC annual meeting.

The topics which it is intended will be discussed at the meeting include:

Education & Awareness:

Misuse of Illegal Substances
Road Safety (Speeding, Mobile Phone Usage, Drink/Drug Driving)
Bullying
Underage Drinking

Crime Prevention/Personal Safety

Community Watch Text Alert Schemes
CCTV/Anti-Social Behaviour/Vandalism
Support for the victims of crime

Illegal Dumping & Littering

County Galway Litter Management Plan
Reporting incidents of illegal dumping & littering

The Joint Policing Committee consists of members of An Garda Síochána, local and national elected officials representing Galway, county council officials, and community representatives.

The function of the JPC is to serve as a forum for consultation, discussion and recommendations on matters affecting the policing of the County of Galway.

ATU Galway student wins prestigious national Engineering award

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November 4, 2023

Innovative Student Engineer of the Year AwardPic Orla Murrray/Coalesce — Innovative Student Engineer of the Year Award Pic Orla Murrray/Coalesce

ATU Galway Mechanical Engineering student Roy Sheridan has been named Siemens Innovative Student Engineer of the Year 2023.

Roy, from Castlebar Co. Mayo, was presented with his award at the annual Engineers Ireland Awards ceremony in Dublin last week.

The prestigious award, now in its 24^th year, is presented annually by Siemens and Engineers Ireland to the best engineering student, or team, who has conceived and developed an innovative technology or commercially viable product.

Roy’s innovative prototype was one of five projects shortlisted for the finals. He was presented with two awards, the overall award and a finalist award for having designed and manufactured a “3-Axis Desktop CNC Milling Machine for Pedagogical Purposes.”

Using a variety of engineering principles, Roy created a working prototype of his desktop machine which can be used by hobbyists, industry, students and educators for STEM teaching and training purposes, and for the realisation of miniature parts and products.

Roy has just completed his Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering (Honours) degree at ATU Galway city campus and will graduate later this month.

Describing his work, Roy says, “The 3D printing has revolutionized the way students are taught engineering, however one process that is continually overlooked due to the expense involved is CNC machining.”

“Desktop CNC machines can put the technology within the reach of all engineering students, and provide students with a practical, hands-on experience in Engineering and Manufacturing”.

Roy thanked his, “parents, family, classmates, and staff who have taught me during my time in ATU Galway. This achievement would not have been possible without your support, knowledge and expertise”.

He also thanked his supervisor Dr Oliver Mulryan for his guidance, and Engineers Ireland and Siemens for choosing him as the winner.

Dr Mulryan, who is the Head of Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at ATU Galway-Mayo said, “Well done Roy, you have done yourself, your family, classmates and ATU proud.”

“Your project literally blew the judging panel away, and your work is evidence of the high calibre of the engineering programmes offered in ATU Galway.”

Kristy Verenga explores Who Am I? in Gort

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November 4, 2023

Experimental artist Kristy Verenga has opened her Who Am I? exhibition which combines media to explore the question at The Gallery Café in Gort.

Kristy uses painting and sculpture to build the world that she calls home, these abstract and symbolic narratives are an expression of her daily experience.

Using oil paint on a wax ground and sometimes a texture like sand which also lets the drawing remain visible as part of the dynamic whole, she makes her own paper clay for the sculpture, which process emerged as a pandemic palliative.

The images in her work are both playful and expressive of this interior dialogue.

Kristy Verenga studied modern dance and music and this feeling of movement is present in her work. She lived in Manhattan for 15 years where she had a fashion business, art gallery and taught yoga.

In 1999, she moved to Barcelona and had a studio in Tecla Sala, a gallery and work space for artists. In 2005, she received a residency grant with solo exhibit at the Roscommon Arts Centre which prompted the move to Ireland.

She received a travel bursary (The Irish cow vs. the Indian sacred cow) which took her to Sanskriti Kendra in New Delhi, India. She now lives and works in Kinvara.

The exhibition will run until 7^th of January 2024 and all pieces are available to buy in house. Pop in or check out www.thegallerycafegort.com.

Jack Carty returns from injury for first start of the season against Ulster

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November 4, 2023

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

Three changes have been made to the Connacht side for their return to interpro games at the Sportsground this weekend.

Connacht will face off against Ulster this Saturday evening on their home turf in the BKT United Rugby Championship.

Jack Carty is returning to the fold after recovering from a jaw injury in the season opener, with Oisín Dowling and Conor Oliver also joining him in the starting XV.

“We’re progressing well so far, but we know we need to up our game again to beat what will be a very strong Ulster side,” said Head Coach Pete Wilkins.

“Like us they’ve won their first two games so have some momentum. They will arrive with plenty of intensity, so it’s up to us to match that.”

“It’s been a long time since we’ve had an interpro at The Sportsground, and with our first game of the season under the lights it promises to be a special atmosphere and occasion.”

For the third straight game there’s a front row of Denis Buckley, Dylan Tierney-Martin and Jack Aungier, while Joe Joyce partners Dowling.

Oliver’s return means Cian Prendergast – who makes his 50th appearance for the club – moves to number 8 and Shamus Hurley-Langton to blindside flanker.

The remaining backs are unchanged with scrum-half Caolin Blade, centres Cathal Forde and Tom Farrell, and a back three of wingers Diarmuid Kilgallen and Byron Ralston, and full-back Tiernan O’Halloran.

The bench returns to a 5-3 split, with Jordan Duggan and David Hawkshaw in line for their first appearances of the season.

CONNACHT RUGBY MATCHDAY 23 VS ULSTER RUGBY
19:35, Saturday 4^th November 2023 @ The Sportsground

15. Tiernan O’Halloran (223)
14. Byron Ralston (17)
13. Tom Farrell (101)
12. Cathal Forde (15)
11. Diarmuid Kilgallen (18)
10. Jack Carty (196)
9. Caolin Blade (172)
1. Denis Buckley (230)
2. Dylan Tierney-Martin (26)
3. Jack Aungier (52)
4. Oisín Dowling (46)
5. Joe Joyce (2)
6. Shamus Hurley-Langton (22)
7. Conor Oliver (64)
8. Cian Prendergast (49)

16. Tadgh McElroy (2)
17. Jordan Duggan (40)
18. Dominic Robertson-McCoy (81)
19. Niall Murray (58)
20. Jarrad Butler (116)
21. Colm Reilly (19)
22. David Hawkshaw (14)
23. Andrew Smith (1)

Funding for new computers and laptops for 30 Galway libraries

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November 4, 2023

Public libraries in Galway have been awarded €115,000 in funding for new computers, laptops, iPads and other ICT equipment under the Libraries Capital Programme.

Thirty libraries in Galway are set to benefit, and the funding will support the new public library strategy, ‘The Library is the Place’, which was launched by Minister Heather Humphreys in July.

Announcing €1.3 million for libraries across the State today, Minister Humphreys said that it will enable public libraries to replace outdated PCs, laptops and iPads with new devices for the benefit of library users of all ages.

She said that the initiative is all about making public libraries more accessible and digitally inclusive places.

“It is essential that our libraries are able to provide up-to-date ICT infrastructure because they play a critical role in helping to support digital inclusion, as well as providing literacy and technology skills training for those looking for work,” said the Minister.

“It is also vital our libraries continue to support marginalised and disadvantaged communities to access government services.

“As Minister, I have had the privilege of visiting many libraries in recent months and I look forward to seeing first-hand the positive impact that this investment will have.”

Galway libraries to receive funding

Galway	€115,617.54
Athenry Public Library
Ballinasloe Public Library
Ballybane Public Library
Ballygar Public Library
Clifden Public Library
Dunmore Public Library
Eyrecourt Public Library
Galway City Library
Glenamaddy Library
Gort Public Library
Headford Public Library
Inishbofin Public Library
Killimor Public Library
Leabharlann an Spideil
Leabharlann Inis Meáin
Leabharlann Inis Mór
Leabharlann Inis Oirr
Leabharlann na Ceathrun Rua
Leenane Public Library
Letterfrack Library
Library Headquarters (Local History Section)
Loughrea Public Library
Moylough Public Library
Oranmore Public Library
Oughterard Public Library
Portumna Public Library
Roundstone Public Library
Tuam Public Library
Westside Public Library
Woodford Public Library

Miracle dog reunited with family in Athenry treated to holiday in France

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November 3, 2023

galway daily news french bulldog enjoying holiday with athenry family in france — Adam Nawrocki all smiles with his son Maks, daughter Mia and French Bulldog, Baja

A French Bulldog who was reunited with her family after being missing for two years has enjoyed a much-needed holiday in France, courtesy of ferry company Stena Line.

Baja and the Nawrocki family made headlines earlier this year after she was found on a busy Dublin street, more than 200km from her family home in Athenry.

Baja was brought to the Dublin SPCA and a scan of her microchip revealed she had been reported as lost/stolen by Adam Nawrocki just before Christmas 2020.

Having been reacquainted with her family and introduced to its newest addition – another French Bulldog called Diabolina – Baja and the rest of the Nawrockis set off across France in a campervan for a much-needed holiday.

Baja and Daibolina travelled in one of the 42 pet cabins onboard Stena Line’s Rosslare to Cherbourg service, after the ferry company had read about Baja’s ordeal.

Adam explained that he and his wife, Justyna and their children, Maks and Mia, rented a big camper van and travelled to France with Stena Line, before heading to Lyon and then on to Avignon and Saint-Tropez.

“Both Baja and Diabolina loved France, they love the sun. We visited friends and they just couldn’t quite believe how much the two of them love sunbathing.”

He said that for Baja in particular, it seems to have been just what the vet ordered.

“When we got her back in January she was in a bad way. She had been neglected, had a limp and was suffering with a really bad ear infection but two weeks in France sunbathing and topping up her vitamin D seems to have done her the world of good.”

Her ear infection has since improved and the warm weather seems to have done wonders for her limp too.

Having never travelled abroad with dogs before, Adam is certain it is something he would do again.

“We drove down to Rosslare and had a fantastic time onboard the ferry. We were given a cabin with four beds and both Baja and Diabolina were allowed in with us,” he said.

“The crew were brilliant and the food onboard was stunning. It was really quite the experience for the whole family.

“Maks and Mia had never been on such a big boat before and having the dogs with us in the cabin added to the sense of adventure and meant we knew they were content, safe and sound by our side.

“They’re such a massive part of our family. We’ve never taken them on holiday with us before but after this experience we definitely will in the future.”

Baja and Diabolina were just two of more than 70,000 pets to have taken a ferry trip with Stena Line this year after the Swedish-owned ferry company enhanced its Irish Sea options for pet travel to include a dedicated pet lounge, pet cabins, lodges and kennels along with the opportunity to keep pets in the car during the journey.

Crossings to France in 2024 are on sale now and until 14 December those who use the code FRANCE10 at checkout can enjoy up to 10% off their trip with a deposit of €100. For more info or to book your trip, visit www.stenaline.ie/france24.

Water finally safe to drink on Inishbofin after two months

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November 3, 2023

Galway Daily news Moycullen water outage

A two-month ‘Do Not Consume’ water notice for people on Inishbofin has been lifted with immediate effect, Uisce Éireann has confirmed today.

Residents on the island can now resume normal use of the water supply. The water had been deemed too dangerous to consume by Uisce Éireann on 14 September due to elevated levels of manganese.

The notice affected 156 customers, and Uisce Eireann’s Justin Doran acknowledged the impact of the notice on homes and businesses on the island.

He thanked the community for their support while we worked to lift the notice.

“Uisce Éireann’s primary focus remains the protection of public health and we worked with our stakeholders to lift the notice as quickly as possible,” said Mr Doran.

“We are grateful to customers, elected representatives, community groups and the media for their assistance in sharing information on the Do Not Consume Notice.”

Galway rally star Aoife Raftery switches disciplines to make rallyscross debut

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November 3, 2023

galway daily news aoife raftery ahead of kent challenge — Craughwell’s Aoife Raftery has been announced as the Women in Motorsport Ambassador for the Corrib Oil Galway International Rally. Photo: Sean Moriarty

Rising Irish rally star Aoife Raftery will switch disciplines to make her rallycross debut in the final round of the RX150 Rallycross Championship at the weekend at Lydden Hill in Kent.

The 22-year-old Craughwell native will step into the TSL-backed single-specification RX150 machine just days after competing in the Cambrian Rally in Wales, the final round of the British Rally Championship.

Raftery made her rally debut on the Nicky Grist Stages in 2021 and became the first female to be selected to join the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy which she has been part of since 2022.

She has since driven a range of front-wheel-drive machinery in rallying across Ireland, the UK, and further afield, having contested the Junior European Rally Championship this year.

Driving a Peugeot 208 Rally4 in the Czech Republic-based Barum Rally recently, Raftery battled back from early time loss to overhaul many of her competitors and finish as the leading female in a two-wheel-drive machine.

She will add a new string to her bow while posing a threat to both the regular RX150 contenders and other new drivers to the category in the final weekend for the Motorsport UK British Rallycross Championship 5 Nations Trophy support category.

This includes a heat race taking place after dark under floodlights on Saturday evening, as she makes her competitive rallycross and rear-wheel-drive debut.

“I can’t wait to compete in my first RX150 race at Lydden Hill. I’ve been rallying over the last two years, but this will be completely new for me,” said Raftery.

“There are a lot of new challenges but I’m ready to take them on and I’m really looking forward to it.

“This is a great place for me to both have fun and to also work on my car control in something that is very different to what I’m used to, especially at a historic rallycross track like Lydden Hill.”

Mass in memory of deceased colleagues at UHG next weekend

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November 3, 2023

galway daily news Galway University Hospitals holding Memorial Service

The Children’s Remembrance Committee at University Hospital Galway will hold its annual Golden Enrolment Mass in memory of deceased colleagues on Saturday, 11 November at 7pm in the Chapel of all Saints, Merlin Park University Hospital.

Hospital staff will lead the mass and present a selection of readings and reflections. On the altar, the Golden Enrolment Book will be present, and a special candle lighting ceremony and minute’s silence will be held in memory of all those who have died.

Joan Healy from the Children’s Remembrance Day Committee said that this is a time for us to come together to remember our deceased colleagues, their professional legacies and lasting contributions.

“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,” she said.

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 087 4418574.

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November 3, 2023