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New Sports That Are Taking The World By Storm

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Galway Daily sport Plans for Oranmore Padel courts knocked back
Photo: Oliver Sjostrom via Pexels

In recent years, an evolution in the sporting world has been noted with the emergence of new disciplines that have rapidly gained global interest in fields like sports betting (which you can take advantage of thanks to Paddy Power sign up offer) or just in terms of viewership and players.

This phenomenon is driven by changing lifestyle trends, advancements in technology and a desire for novelty in sporting experiences.

The rise of eSports, for instance, has transformed the entertainment industry as well as sports viewership and betting patterns. Similarly, sports like drone racing represent the intersection of technology and athleticism, offering a unique competitive platform.

Furthermore, alternative sports such as ultimate frisbee and parkour emphasize unconventional skill sets and strategies while promoting physical fitness. 

This development reflects a dynamic shift in sports culture towards more innovative, accessible forms of competition that retain the essential elements of challenge and entertainment inherent to traditional sports.

In this article we’ll take a look at some of the most innovative sports that are taking the world by storm nowadays. Let’s get started!

Most popular new sports in 2023

Pickleball

Pickleball, an emerging sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, is captivating global audiences with its unique gameplay and has also become a promising new frontier in sports betting.

Developed in the mid-20th century, pickleball was designed to be accessible for all ages and skill levels. Its compact court size makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor setups. The rules are easy to understand which encourages participation from beginners.

The game’s rapid pace and high-scoring nature make it both exciting to watch and conducive for gambling activities. As the popularity of this sport continues to grow, it contributes significantly to diversifying the landscape of international sports culture.

In similar vein is another rapidly growing sport – padel.

Padel

Originating from Mexico in 1969, padel as a sport has recently gained traction globally with over 10 million players.

Padel’s distinctive features include an enclosed court half the size of a tennis court and solid rackets without strings.

The rules allow balls to be played off the walls surrounding the court, adding extra dimensions to strategy and technique.

The betting industry has also recognized Padel’s potential as markets for these types of sports are emerging.

Enthusiasts can now engage further through wagering on international tournaments or even local matches.

With its global expansion set to continue, padel will pave the way for other hybrid sports like mixed martial arts (MMA).

MMA

Mixed martial arts (MMA), an electrifying and dynamic combat sport, is rapidly captivating the world. With its unique combination of striking and grappling techniques, both on the feet and on the ground, MMA has evolved into a global phenomenon that offers unparalleled excitement and adrenaline. Here are some of its best features:

  1. Intensity: MMA matches are known for their high-octane energy, demanding physical prowess, strategic thinking, and exceptional resilience from its participants.
  2. Diversity: The amalgamation of different fighting styles in MMA creates an unparalleled spectacle of skill and strategy that resonates with fans globally.
  3. Global Reach: With organizations like UFC reaching far corners of the world through broadcasting deals and live events, MMA’s popularity continues to skyrocket.

This dynamic rise has fueled interest not only among spectators but also within betting communities. As the focus shifts towards these emerging sports disciplines, another area experiencing rapid growth is electronic gaming competitions or ‘e-sports’.

E sports

E-sports, otherwise known as electronic gaming competitions, are gaining significant traction globally with features that distinguish them from traditional sports. These digital games involve competitive play where individuals or teams participate in organized tournaments.

The rise of E-sports can be attributed to its distinctive characteristics: accessibility and inclusivity. Unlike traditional sports, e-sports do not require physical prowess; anyone with access to a computer or console can compete.

Moreover, E-sports introduces intricate strategies and complex decision-making processes which contribute to the spectator appeal. This has transformed it into a lucrative industry attracting numerous investors and leading to an exponential increase in betting activities.

Despite its youthful existence compared to other sports disciplines, E-sports is rapidly evolving and poised for mainstream recognition on a global scale.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, the emergence of innovative sports disciplines such as eSports, drone racing, ultimate frisbee, and parkour underscores the dynamic evolution of sports and betting industries.

These activities not only offer unique competitive platforms but also open new avenues for global engagement and wagering.

The popularity surge in these non-traditional sports signifies shifting interests and the ongoing pursuit for novel forms of entertainment and competition.

Runner-up spot for Galway man in national astrophotography competition

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galway daily news DIAS photo competition second place photo by galway man
The Spaghetti Nebula by David Mackie

A Galway man’s photo has been selected as a runner-up in the 2023 Reach for the Stars astrophotography competition, run by the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies.

David Mackie from Athenry was a runner-up in the ‘Out of this World’ category with his submission ‘The Spaghetti Nebula’, which captures the dust and gas blown into space by the enormous explosion of a supernova.

This category called for images depicting scenes or elements of astronomical interest such as deep space images or images of the solar system.

David’s winning image will be showcased as part of an outdoor exhibition at DIAS’s premises at 10 Burlington Road, Dublin, from Tuesday, 1 August.

The 14 top-rated images from the competition will be displayed alongside David’s and the exhibition is free to attend.

Other Winning Images

Taking the first prize in the ‘Back on Earth’ category, was an image of the Milky Way over the Port Láirge Shipwreck near Bannow Bay, Saltmills, Co. Wexford. The image was taken by Adrian Hendroff, from Stepaside, Dublin.

In addition to being the overall winner in the ‘Back on Earth’ category, Mr Hendroff also scooped the top prize in the Public Choice category receiving the most votes in the online public vote for his image ‘Illuminate’.

Sara Harvey, from Bishopstown, Co. Cork, claimed first prize in the ‘Out of this World’ category.

The winning image, ‘M51 – A Galactic Dance’, captures the Whirlpool Galaxy, located 31 million light years from Earth. The galaxy has a face-on appearance as seen from Earth, showing its distinct spiral structure and galactic core.

Featuring as a runner-up alongside Mr Mackie in the Out of this World’ category was Enda Kelly, from Wicklow Town, for his image ‘When the planets align. Lunar occultation of Mars.’

Runners-up in the ‘Back on Earth’ category were: Patryk Sadowski, from Derry City, for his image ‘Manannán mac Lir & Aurora’ and Keith Levins, from Blackrock, Cork City, for his submission, ‘The Almighty Arch’.

Judges’ Feedback

The winners were selected by a judging panel following a meticulous judging process of over 70 entries.

In addition to Prof Peter Gallagher, the judging panel included Brenda Fitzsimons, Picture Editor, The Irish Times; Michael McCreary, President, Irish Astronomical Society; and Niamh Breathnach, Director, Alice Public Relations.

E-wallets vs Cards vs Crypto: How do You Choose One for Online Casinos?

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When it comes to payments, lots of people easily assume that they are all alike. This is especially because of the familiarity with certain payment methods in different countries, where the common option is simply adopted by the next person. However, when it comes to the world of international online gambling, things become quite different. For example, one payment method may be slower or costlier depending on the casino you choose. Other payment methods may even open you up to special offers, such as a deposit bonus when you make a live casino PayPal deposit.

This means that if you are an online casino fan, checking out different methods can help improve your overall casino experience. These can be e-wallets such as PayPal, cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, or the more traditional credit and debit cards. And in this guide, we’ll explore the various pros and cons of different ones.

The Convenience Factor

When it comes to convenience, e-wallets such as PayPal and Neteller came as game-changers. First, they have a quick registration process, so you don’t need to take your driver’s license or ID to a bank. Making deposits and withdrawals is also quite straightforward, and you can use any device.

When it comes to bank cards, they offer a sense of familiarity as most people have used one. This means you’ll still have an easy time withdrawing or depositing to an online casino. Crypto, on the other hand, takes the convenience to another level. Here, you won’t be restricted by currency exchange, so you can use any casino from anywhere with ease. However, the process of starting to use crypto may need some good research to avoid common crypto pitfalls.

The Speed of Transactions

E-wallets typically offer super-fast transactions, so they are an easy option if you want to go for speed. A live casino PayPal deposit will get there or reach you almost instantly. Banks and cards may not be that fast, especially when it comes to online casinos. This is because casinos are avenues that can be exploited by criminals or used for irregular payments. And as such, there may be some verifications, depending on the bank you use. Crypto payments are usually fast, but this may be affected by various factors, such as network congestion.

The Security and Privacy Offered

When it comes to making online payments, security is the most important thing. Thankfully, all payment methods take this seriously, ensuring that your account can’t be misused. E-wallets use encryption to protect your money from other online users, and this is combined with 2-factor authentication. Banks, on the other hand, already have established mechanisms that you should not worry about, including refunds. And when you use crypto, all transactions will be recorded on the blockchain, automatically making them resistant to hacking and fraud. However, you will also need to ensure that you secure your payment method, and especially your crypto wallet.

Fees and Costs of a Transaction

Every player wants to maximize their winnings, so considering the charges you incur when making a transaction is a good method of bankroll management. All payment methods will have some deposit and withdrawal charges. However, e-wallets are typically cheaper than banks and cards. Crypto, on the other hand, is cheaper to use than e-wallets.

Accessibility and Global Reach

There are no boundaries when it comes to online casinos, so you should also consider the reach. E-wallets allow you to make a payment anywhere, and you can even have multiple currencies in your wallet to help you avoid conversion charges. Cryptos are even better as they do not factor in geographical locations, so they may be a great option if your wallet uses a local currency. Banks will still allow you to make a payment anywhere, but the process will be quite expensive if you are paying in a different currency.

So which one do you choose? Well, it’s all a matter of the most important factors, so first analyze your individual needs, then make a decision.

Galway Races Weather: Odds on for wettest week ever

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Galway Daily news Galway Races won't be open to the public, if they take place at all

Racegoers in Galway could be facing a washout week of rain, with bookies’ odds of the wettest race week ever being slashed.

The odds for Ballybritt seeing record rainfall this week is just 1/2 with Ladbrokes, but the poor forecast won’t deter eager horse racing fans over the coming days.

Tuesday afternoon will remain mainly dray however, with rain pushing up from the south in the evening.

Heavy outbreaks of rain are expected overnight, with mist and low cloud, and lowest temperatures will be between 11 and 14 degrees.

Wednesday will begin damp and cloudy, but the rain and drizzle could give way to showers and a few sunny spells through the afternoon.

Highest temperatures of 16 to 19 degrees are forecast by Met Éireann, with moderate to fresh and gusty north to northwest winds.

Speaking about the weather for the Galway Races, Nicola McGeady of Ladbrokes said: “Despite the showery predictions, around 130,000 racing fans are expected to descend on the Galway Races over the coming days and not even record rainfall will dampen the spirits of punters during the highlight of the summer racing calendar!”

COVID-19 outbreaks affecting multiple wards at UHG

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University Hospital Galway is currently under extreme pressure from a COVID-19 outbreak and very high attendance at the Emergency Department.

The COVID-19 outbreak is affecting multiple wards in the hospital, with 28 confirmed cases spread across five wards.

Visiting restrictions have been imposed on all areas of the hospital currently affected by the virus outbreaks.

In addition, UHG has also reported high pressure on the emergency department, with 40 patients on trolleys as of this morning.

“The high number of people attending who need to be admitted for ongoing treatment means that there is pressure on bed availability,” a statement to Galway Daily said.

“Particularly coming into a busy bank holiday weekend we are urging the public not to visit the hospital if you are feeling unwell.”

“If you have symptoms like a sore throat, cough, temperature or shortness of breath please do not visit the hospital to help keep vulnerable patients safe.”

Chris Kane, Hospital Manager at UHG said, “We are preparing for a busy weekend across health services this weekend. In UHG, COVID-19 outbreaks and high ED attendances are putting additional pressure on our bed capacity”.

“For that reason we are asking our local community to be mindful of the safety of our patients and staff, please do not visit the hospital if you are feeling unwell.”

Planning granted for new mobile telecoms mast in Headford

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Galway Daily news Planning granted for new mobile telecoms mast in Headford
Photo: Steve Kazella via Wikimedia Commons

Planning permission has been granted to Eircom for 21m high mobile mast in Headford, replacing an smaller existing telecoms mast.

The mast, to be located at the Eir Exchange off the Church Road in Headford, would replace a 12m high wooden mast already there.

The county council had previously refused Eircom planning permission to erect a 20m high monopole at this site in 2020.

This new application was approved by the county council with nine conditions attached.

The new tower has been designed to accommodate Eir Mobile and Vodafone equipment, as the existing tower is not suitable due to its low height.

The new mast is needed to provide improved 4G coverage for the area, a planning report for the application stated.

Ten objections to the project were received by the county council, with concerns mostly related to the visual impact of the mast, the proximity of nearby housing, and potential road safety issues.

Stunning refurbishments completed at seaside Galway Bay Golf Resort

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Galway Bay Golf Resort

The Galway Bay Golf Resort has recently completed a stunning set of refurbishments to its clubhouse, restaurant, and bar, with the makeover taking this already gorgeous spot overlooking Galway Bay into a must visit location.

The Renville-located golf resort, outside Oranmore, offers the newly named 2 Iron Bar & Restaurant, a contemporary Pro Shop, and a fabulous function area – the Bay View Suite.

The 2 Iron Bar & Restaurant not only features a new name but has been re-designed into a fabulously contemporary space ideal for enjoying stellar cuisine and smooth beverages. 

The Bay View Suite on the second floor offers stunning views of Galway Bay. As the new events space, it will host birthday get-togethers, communion celebrations, family gatherings, and more.

Galway Bay Golf Resort’s 18-hole golf course was designed by the late, great Christy O’ Connor Jr. – and the 2 Iron Bar & Restaurant is named in honor of the 2-iron club which O’ Connor Jr. used in order to perform his historic shot at the 1989 Ryder Cup. His shot to the 18th hole saw him defeat Fred Couples and help Team Europe retain the title at The Belfry. 

“We’re delighted to offer our upgraded clubhouse to members and visitors alike. We’re proud to pay homage to the legendary Christy O’ Connor Jr. with many of our upgrades,” said Fergal O’Shea, Galway Bay Golf Resort General Manager.  

“His legacy lives on through the course he designed here, and we’ve made every effort to design a clubhouse that complements his work.”

He added that the result of the recent renovations speak for themselves, and must be seen to be believed.

“From the décor in the 2 Iron Bar & Restaurant, to the delicious cuisine served by our culinary staff, to the live music we’ll have on site, each effort has been made to create a stellar experience.”

“We hope everyone who comes to the Galway Bay Golf Resort enjoys a wonderful time, and we’re looking forward to welcoming new and familiar faces to us,” Fergal added.

Latest EPA report shows one Galway public water supply deemed “at-risk”

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Galway Daily news Latest EPA report shows one Galway public water supply deemed "at-risk"

The latest Drinking Water Quality Report from the Environmental Protection Agency shows just one public water supply in Galway deemed at risk.

Inishboffin public water supply, serving approximately 165 people, was placed on the Remedial Action List in Q2 of 2022.

It was the only water supply in Galway which remained on the list as of the end of last year, with no estimated date for when it will be removed.

The EPA Drinking Water Quality in Public Supplies Report 2022 shows that Inishboffin was listed for failures in Trihalomethanes (THM) levels, a disinfectant by product, and that there were mechanical failures at the WTP.

Overall, the report showed that 99.7% of public water supplies were compliant with bacterial and chemical limits.

However, in 2022, the number of people served by public water supplies on the RAL also increased to nearly 481,000, up from 374,000 at the end of 2021.

Launching the report, Dr Tom Ryan, EPA Director said, “Our public water quality remains very high, which means that the public can be confident that the drinking water supplied to their homes is safe to drink.”

“The EPA through our inspection and monitoring programme, continues to identify drinking water plants that are at risk and require improvements and upgrades.”

He added that Uisce Eireann needs to prioritise investment in those plants whose water supplies are on the remedial action list.

“In addition, the growing number of people affected by persistent THM failures, now at 235,000 people, is of particular concern.”

New boathouse facilities planned for Galway Hooker Sailing Club

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Galway Daily news New boathouse facilities planned for Galway Hooker Sailing Club

Galway Hooker Sailing Club are seeking approval from the city council to completely revamp and modernise their facilities on the Corrib.

The club has made a planning application to demolish and replace the old boathouse located next to Corrib Village student accommodation complex.

They plan to replace the current substandard boathouse with a two storey building with a dry dock inlet and repair station on the ground floor, and the club house meeting room kitchenette, W.C and changing areas at the first floor.

Other works will include building a cantilevered quayside boardwalk with floating pontoons at ground level, and a viewing deck to the water front at first floor level.

The project will also involve retention and completing the slipway at the boathouse to allow safe access to the water.

The boathouse is currently used by Galway Hooker Sailing Club, Gráinne Mhaol Rowing Club, Galway Bay Boat Tours, Port of Galway Sea Scouts, and field trips for transition year students.

A letter submitted with the application by Galway Hooker Sailing Clubs states that these clubs have a total membership of over 400 people, and that they expect to have roughly 500 TY students under the EcoEd4All outdoor classroom.

It adds that there are currently no means of safely slipping and landing rowing boats, currachs, kayaks etc at the Boathouse.

The proposed floating pontoons which would allow this are being directly funded by the city council.

The restoration of traditional boats would also take place at the new Boathouse.

A decision on this planning application is due from Galway City Council by September 12 of this year

Advance notice of car park closure in Salthill

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Galway daily news Salthill car parks reopen after run of bad weather

Galway City Council has given advance notice of a car park closing in Salthill for a week in August.

Claude Toft Car Park in Salthill will not be available from 5pm on Wednesday, August 9 through to 8am on Thursday, August 17.

The car park is being closed to the public due to an event taking place.

Due to an upcoming event, this carpark will not be available to the public from 5pm on Wednesday 9th August to 8am Thursday 17th August 2023.”

Exploring the Growing Trend of Crypto Gambling in Ireland

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Ireland has long been renowned for its vibrant gambling scene at racetracks, physical casinos, and online platforms. But in recent years, an emerging trend of cryptocurrency has set the gambling community abuzz. Known for its decentralization, high level of anonymity, and quick transactions, this new trend is reshaping the gambling landscape in Ireland. From traditional poker to more contemporary online slots, crypto gambling is becoming increasingly popular. Among the frontrunners of this trend are platforms such as Ireland Bitcoin casinos which are gaining popularity with each passing day.

Why Crypto Gambling?

Using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others offers several distinct advantages for online gamblers. First and foremost, the anonymity provided by these digital currencies is unmatched. Traditional banking methods often require users to share extensive personal and financial information. In contrast, transactions with cryptocurrencies are pseudonymous, making it a preferred choice for those who value privacy.

Secondly, the speed and efficiency of cryptocurrency transactions far exceed those of traditional methods. No longer must players wait for bank authorizations or endure lengthy processing times. With cryptocurrencies, transactions—whether deposits or withdrawals—are processed almost instantly. 

Gemini’s Global State of Crypto report in 2022 revealed a striking interest in cryptocurrency among the Irish population, with 58% of adults expressing plans to invest in crypto in the upcoming year or a desire to know more about it. This growing intrigue is evident in the Irish gaming community, where more and more players appreciate the advantages of using cryptocurrencies for online gambling, consequently leading to a rising interest in Bitcoin casinos.

Crypto Gambling in Ireland: The Current Scenario

Irish people have a long-standing affinity for gambling that spans centuries. Ranking among the top ten nations for online gambling, Ireland saw its players splurging more than €10 billion in 2020 alone. Famed for their discernment in quality gaming and sports wagering options, Irish gamblers consistently seek out the most exceptional gambling platforms their nation offers.

Ireland has adapted quickly to this global trend, with numerous crypto casinos now available for Irish players. However, the rapid growth of crypto gambling in the country has posed some regulatory challenges. The Irish government was in the process of developing specific legislation to address this issue. The key focus of the proposed law was to ensure fair play and protect users from potential frauds or scams online. 

As of now, the following laws regulate crypto casinos in Ireland:

  • Betting Acts 1931 to 2015
  • Finance Act 1975 (as amended)
  • Totalizator Act 1929 (as amended)
  • Gaming and Lotteries Acts 1956 to 2019
  • National Lottery Act 2013
  • Finance Act 1992 (as amended)

Despite the regulatory gray area, Bitcoin gambling continues to flourish in Ireland. Many platforms are fully regulated by international bodies, providing Irish players with secure and trustworthy places to gamble with their digital currencies. 

For instance, premier online casinos in Ireland are typically licensed by Malta Gaming Authority or the UK Gambling Commission. These regulatory bodies promote responsible gambling among Irish players and enforce adherence to all relevant gambling and financial laws through online platforms. Besides, eCOGRA (Electronic Gaming Commission) provides proper regulation of crypto casinos, ensuring a safe user experience for all. 

The Ireland Bitcoin casinos listed on Bitwin.io are a prime example. You can explore platforms with a wide range of games, including online slots, poker, roulette, and more, which can be played using Bitcoin and other popular cryptocurrencies. This growth is not limited to Bitcoin casinos either; there has been an increase in platforms accepting a wide range of cryptocurrencies. 

The Future of Crypto Gambling in Ireland

Crypto gambling in Ireland is undoubtedly here to stay. Given the advantages it offers over traditional gambling, its popularity will continue growing. As the Irish government further refines its regulation around this emerging sector, players can expect more secure and reliable platforms to emerge.

In terms of trends, one can expect a wider acceptance of various cryptocurrencies in the future. While Bitcoin is currently the most popular choice for crypto gambling in Ireland, other currencies like Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, and Bitcoin Cash are gradually gaining acceptance.

Furthermore, as the tech infrastructure supporting cryptocurrencies improves, we can expect to see advanced features such as smart contracts being integrated into crypto gambling. It will revolutionize the way bets are placed, and winnings are distributed, offering even greater transparency and security to all players.

The world of Irish gambling is undergoing a digital revolution. As more and more gamblers turn to cryptocurrencies for their gaming needs, Ireland stands poised at the cusp of this exciting new era in online gambling. If you’re considering joining this trend, research this vast market and choose a reliable platform like the Ireland Bitcoin casinos on Bitwin.io. Remember, gamble responsibly, and may the odds be ever in your favor!

Over 500 on trolleys in UHG in July, but figures lower than recent years

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Galway Daily news

UHG was the fifth most overcrowded hospital in Ireland this month, with more than 500 patients on trolleys in July.

However, the figure of 541 patients at UHG who have gone without a bed this month is an improvement on the same period in recent years.

Aside from the outlier of July 2020 during the height of the COVID pandemic, when there was just a single patient on a trolley in the entire month, this is the lowest figure for UHG since 2018.

Last year the INMO Trolley Watch recorded 998 people on trolleys in July, while there were 592 in 2021, and 707 in 2019.

Portiuncula Hospital has also seen an improvement on its July trolley figures compared with the past two years.

The 199 patients on trolleys at Portiuncula this month is less than the figure for 2022 & 2021. However, it is still many times higher than all of the years prior to that.

Nationwide, 7,832 patients, including 138 children, went without a bed in Irish hospitals in July, which INMO General Secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha said is a red flag warning for the winter ahead.

“The HSE must set out very clearly what measures it intends to take to reduce the levels of overcrowding in our hospitals in the coming months.”

TrolleyWatch figures show 72,391 patients have gone without a bed in 2023, a 10% increase in the same time period in 2022.

The INMO has warned that the HSE must view this as a indication of what is now inevitable this winter and must act accordingly.

“It has been reported that the Cabinet has signed off on a year-round plan for the HSE, the INMO will be now seeking details of the  staff support measures it contains as staff cannot be expected to just endure these conditions for another winter.”

“Last week, HIQA published inspection reports into some of Ireland’s busiest hospitals. They show that there is a pattern emerging across the vast majority of hospitals that unsafe levels of staffing is compromising both patient and staff safety.”

“Safe staffing underpinned by legislation must go hand-in-hand with any plan produced to tackle year-round overcrowding.”

Homeless figures for Galway increased again in June

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galway daily Homeless figures for Galway increased again in June

There were 271 homeless adults in Galway last month according to the latest report from the Department of Housing.

That’s an increase of eight from the report for May 2023, and up from 240 in the same month last year.

Across the western region of Galway, Mayo, and Roscommon there were 97 families in emergency accommodation between June 19 – 25, up from 94 last month.

Those families included a total of 203 children in emergency accommodation, and 54 of them were single parent families.

Of the 340 homeless adults in the three western counties last month, 177 were men and 163 were women.

Broken down by age bracket, the largest share of people in emergency accommodation were aged from 25-44 years old, 155 people, while another 106 were 45-64 years old, and 72 homeless adults were aged from 18-24.

There were also 7 people in the west over the age of 65 who were living in emergency accommodation last month.

Nationwide there were a total of 8,835 homeless adults in June. There were 1,804 families in emergency accommodation, with 3,765 child dependants.

Five future migrant leaders from Galway honoured at Dublin ceremony

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galway daily news immigrant council of ireland graduates

Five future migrant leaders from Galway were among 31 migrants who graduated from political and leadership programmes at a ceremony in the EPIC Museum Dublin.

Run by the Immigrant Council of Ireland, the courses are aimed at increasing migrant representation in politics and encouraging migrants to use their voice to enact change.

Among those from Galway graduating from the Migrant Leadership Academy were: Kyrylo Popovych from Oranmore, Mysi Badenhorst, Olena Domina and Sanober Jaffry.

Tsitsi Kutamahufa graduating from the Migrant Councillor Internship scheme from Galway City.

Graduates were presented with certificates at the event in Dublin where Sinéad Gibney, Chief Commissioner at the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission, delivered the keynote address.

Speaking at the graduation, Immigrant Council of Ireland CEO, Brian Killoran, said that one of the most incredible benefits to working with diverse communities is the opportunity to interact with up-and-coming community and political leaders.

“The energy, dynamism, and passion of those who participate in our leadership academy and political internship scheme gives us all a boost, and shows us that the future is bright for social and community activism in Galway and Ireland, and for diversity in politics,” he said.

“By stepping up and participating, they are demonstrating their commitment to build a future for Ireland that is positive, diverse and informed by strong values of social justice, collaboration, mutual support and human rights.

“That’s an incredible thing, and so important in a world with many issues and challenges. We thank them for their commitment, and for participating.”

Adding to Mr Killoran’s comments, Integration Manager at the Immigrant Council of Ireland, Valéria Acquino, thanked the local councillors in Galway who supported their political engagement work this year.

“They have helped demonstrate that there is a strong appetite for making Irish politics more diverse and reflective of the reality of Irish society.

“At the Immigrant Council, our work is enriched by the interactions we have with the fantastic people we meet through the leadership academy and political internship scheme, and we know that communities and local politics in Galway and across Ireland will be enriched when the talent and enthusiasm shown by this group is harnessed and given an opportunity to shine.

“Given the recent media and online attention around refugee rights in communities across the country, we’re at risk of losing sight of the overwhelming positivity around migration and diversity that exists in Irish society.

“To counter this, we need to ensure that we showcase the contribution and potential of those who have chosen Ireland as their new home, and that we all recognise migrants and refugees as equal members of our communities, who share in the successes we have as a society.”

Graduates

Eighteen graduates in total completed the Migrant Leadership Academy, which aims to improve leadership skills and the capacity of participants to initiate, design and implement community-led campaigns and initiatives.

Mysi Badenhorst is a disability rights and inclusion activist and speaker from Galway, who took part in the Migrant Leadership Academy.

As a mother to a child with cerebral palsy, she uses her voice and social media platforms to create conversations engaging the disability community.

Mysi used the programme to refine her leadership skills and her dream in the future is to become the first black TD in Ireland.

Also recognised at the ceremony were 13 people who graduated from the Migrant Councillor Internship Scheme.

ISME raises concerns about proposed min wage increase

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galway daily news fake €2 coins

ISME has this morning written to An Taoiseach to highlight issues around the impact of the proposed 12.4% increase to the national minimum wage (NMW) in 2024.

The association, which represents over 10,000 small and medium enterprises in Ireland, argues that the measure will create a financially unsustainable situation for many businesses.

The Chair of ISME Marc O’Dwyer noted that while very few of ISME’s members pay staff at the minimum wage, the rate serves as an “important benchmark and relativity for most incomes up to around €30,000 per annum.

The proposed increase in the minimum wage is the largest since 2012, and the ISME said it would come on top of a raft of other payroll cost increasing measures introduced or about to be introduced, which “have not been adequately evaluated.”

“In the absence of the opportunity to adequately represent these views in the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF), we fear your government might press ahead with an unaffordable and unsustainable increase in payroll costs in January,” wrote Marc O’Dwyer.

“The retail members of ISME estimate that the 12.4% wage impact of the NMW will add between 1% and 2.5% to grocery bills, depending on store size.

“ISME understands that some of the impetus for NMW increases comes from the EU under the directive for adequacy of the minimum wage.

“However, as we pointed out to the Department of Enterprise in our submission on the NMW 2024, the use of the 50% of mean/60% of median metrics are clearly problematic in an economy where there is such a wide distribution in incomes by enterprise size.”

He said that there have been suggestions that businesses may be supported by government in delivering the increased minimum wage in January.

“We consider this possibility unwise. If proposed increases in the NMW are so large that businesses require state support, they clearly should not go ahead,” said O’Dwyer.

“In our view, the social wage and social welfare supports should be used to bridge identified gaps, not an increase in the NMW.

“Research the government has already seen suggests that where businesses cannot afford to pay NMW increases, they simply reduce employee hours worked, negating the justification for the increase in the first place.”

Letter | Galway climate change “opportunities”?

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Galway Daily news Galway hosts 37 countries for agriculture and climate change conference

Dear Editor,

Galway County Council has released a strategy for tackling climate change impacts, titled “Climate Proofing County Galway”.

Within the document, the council makes notes of “Risks and Opportunities”.
This is a worrying grouping and comparison.

The risks that climate change poses include, but are not limited to, more flooding, heavier rain and unpredictable weather patterns, greater coastal erosion, a reduction in food security, lengthier heatwaves, and the increased possibility of novel disease emergence.
We also face a significant climate justice issue, as those who experience the worst impacts of climate change have caused the least planetary harm.

There are admittedly some “opportunities” regarding climate change but only if we are unimaginative. Opportunities like fewer burst pipes due to freezing and new heritage site discovery showcase just how much Galway County Council are scraping the barrel.

Risks and opportunities should not be weighted equally. The risks far outweigh any potential benefits – some of which don’t require climate change to influence them.
For example, warmer winters may mean we can reduce heating costs and maintenance but regardless we can improve the insulation and retrofit those homes to reduce heatings costs and help meet our emissions targets.

Another is ensuring good water quality – we should be doing this anyway, preventing fertiliser runoff, industrial waste, and any other pollutants entering our waterways is critical for all life in Ireland.

Climate change is not something we can rely on to provide opportunities. But there are plentiful opportunities to tackle climate change and simultaneously address fuel poverty, car dependency, local air pollution issues, reduce healthcare costs, reduce expenditure on road repairs, and return valuable time back to workers and their families.

Yours,
Criodán Ó Murchú
An Taisce Climate Committee Member
Peterswell, Co. Galway

Man (40s) arrested after major Galway drugs seizure

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Galway Daily news man dies in hospital following traffic collision

A man has been arrested after Gardaí seized €85,000 worth of cannabis and cannabis jellies in Tuam Sunday afternoon.

Gardaí carried out a search operation under warrant at a property in Tuam as part of an ongoing clampdown on drugs in Galway.

Gardaí seized quantities of cannabis and cannabis jellies with “a combined value of approximately €85,000”. They also seized €13,000 in cash.

A man in his 40s was arrested as part of the investigation, and he is being detained at a Garda Station in the North Western Region under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act, 1996.

Speaking on Sunday, Chief Superintendent Gerard Roche, Galway Division, said: “These seizures demonstrate our commitment in tackling organised crime and drug dealers around the county.”

GIAF and University of Galway announce new five-year strategic partnership

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With the 45th annual festival in full flow, Galway International Arts Festival (GIAF) and its long-time education partner University of Galway have announced a new five-year partnership that will see the partners work even more closely together. Photo: Andrew Downes, xposure

Galway International Arts Festival and the University of Galway have announced a new five year strategic partnership which will see ever more events staged at the university, and more students getting involved in volunteering.

The 45th annual Galway International Arts Festival comes to a close this weekend, with this also marking 13 years of the University serving as the festival’s official Education Partner.

Over the course of the last five year partnership, 121 events have taken place on the University of Galway campus, with 128,727 people brought on to campus to see musical greats, symphony orchestras, exhibitions, installations plus great Irish and international theatre. 

The Festival Volunteer Programme has welcomed 3,248 participants over the last five years from an average of 41 different countries each year.

The festival provided creative and cultural opportunities for graduates, with more than 50% of the productions at GIAF 2021 featuring University of Galway graduates.

Academic staff have also had the opportunity to break bread with their colleagues and wider audiences in the First Thought Talks and Backstage talks series.

Photo: Andrew Downes, xposure

The new partnership will see a further expansion of this work, plus a University association with the festival’s First Thought Talks programme.

The GIAF archive housed in the University Library will also be expanded with the creation of a new oral festival histories section.

Other aspects of the partnership will involve GIAF and University of Galway exploring ways to develop the creative industries in the West to foster career pathways for University graduates.

CEO of Galway International Arts Festival John Crumlish said: “This is a hugely exciting development for GIAF and a potential game changer for a number of areas of the festival’s work.”

“The partnership will allow the organisation to further progress its EDI ambitions, progress its discussion platform First Thought, further support artist development, explore development opportunities in the Creative Industries, support the festival’s transition to a sustainable future and support programming.”

With close to 20% of GIAF events now held on campus, GIAF and University of Galway have also agreed to work more closely together on the delivery of more sustainable festivals year on year.

In addition, University of Galway and GIAF will also work together as part of a European consortium over the next two years, examining how cultural entrepreneurship can be used to support climate transition.

Commenting on the new partnership, University of Galway President, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, said, “We are delighted to further extend our strategic partnership with GIAF.”

“The partnership speaks to the values of our University – respect, openness, excellence, sustainability – and to our status as a university for the public good and of the creative city that is Galway.”

“I look forward to working with GIAF over the coming years through increased collaboration on events, research, civic engagement and learning opportunities for our students.”

Portiuncula Hospital helping older patients avoid unnecessary hospital stays

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Portiuncula Hospital helping older patient avoid unnecessary hospital stays

Portiuncula University Hospital has been enhancing care for older patients to help them recover at home and avoid unnecessary hospital stays.

Portiuncula Hospital’s Frailty at the Front Door Service was introduced to provide a holistic assessment and intervention to patients over 75 presenting with frailty to the Emergency Department (ED).

The service is ED based and identifies and assesses patients presenting with frailty and provides individualised interventions. Many people present to the service following a fall or with changes in their ability to complete everyday tasks.

Early comprehensive assessment can improve their healthcare outcomes and experience and can support their further recovery at home.

Lisa O’Looney, Senior Physiotherapist, FFD Team said, “Studies have shown that older adults are those most likely to visit a GP and to require inpatient hospital beds.”

“For many frail older adults, a hospital stay may result in a loss of independence and a need for extra assistance on discharge.

“The FFD Team focuses on what matters to the patient and most people identify a preference for recovery at home. By completing an early assessment we aim to support this wish by referring our patients to local community supports as needed.”

“This year so far 25% of the patients utilising the service presented to the ED after a fall. Following a holistic assessment by the team, factors contributing to falls and frailty are identified and measures are put in place to promote a safe recovery.”

“Frailty is often recognised as decreased mobility, weight loss, muscle weakness and reduced energy levels. Frailty is not an inevitable part of ageing, and can be prevented, reversed or slowed down.

The Service commenced in September 2021 as part of the Enhanced Community Care programme (ECC) to improve and expand community health services and reduce pressure on hospital services.

This year the Frailty Front Door (FFD) Team has supported discharge directly home in 55% of older people assessed by referring them to community services, in keeping with the Sláintecare vision of providing the right care, in the right place, at the right time.

The Frailty Front Door Team consists of a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Senior Occupational Therapist, Senior Physiotherapist, Geriatric Medical Registrar, Therapy Assistant and Assistant Staff Officer.

James Keane, Hospital Manager said, “The introduction of the Frailty at the Front Door Service is part of our on-going commitment to ensure quality of care for the older person is foremost.”

“The team ensures early multidisciplinary involvement is available at the ‘front door’ and can provide an alternative pathway to hospital admission for many.”

“This specialist team provide care, treatment and support to improve the patients’ experience and help them to return home to live as independently as they can.”

Galway Bay is Calling in climate crisis driven concert

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Pictured at Galway Atlantaquaria are Garry Kendellen (Marketing Manager at Galway Atlantaquaria), Anna Lardi (CEO Music for Galway) and Dr Maria Vittoria Marra (Education and Public Engagement Officer at Galway Atlantaquaria). Photo Credit: Tara Noonan

Music for Galway’s Cellissimo Festival and Galway Atlantaquaria are joining together on a new musical extravaganza, Galway Bay is Calling which has been awarded funding to highlight the climate emergency.

As record breaking temperatures grip the Earth and the alarming all-world impacts of climate change are thrown into sharp focus, Galway Bay is Calling is a timely new local initiative supported by the Creative Ireland Climate Action Spark Fund. 

The collaboration aspires to facilitating better understanding of human impacts on the oceans and developing engagement tools to positively influence behaviours and attitudes to climate change. 

The Galway-based creative project will pose individual and collective responses to the climate emergency through music and performance. 

Galway Bay is Calling aims to ignite immediate and sustainable action in addressing the climate emergency at community level. 

Music for Galway, the classical music resource organisation, and Galway Atlantaquaria, Ireland’s largest native species aquarium, have secured investment through the Creative Ireland Climate Action Spark Fund to develop this initiative. 

This ambitious project will bring together marine conservationists, behavioural scientists and scores of professional and community musicians, singers, and performers from across Galway city and county in a unique creative collaboration.

On the announcement of the project funding, Music for Galway CEO Anna Lardi said “Galway Bay is Calling fits right into a central theme of Cellissimo, our international cello festival which takes place for the second time across Galway city and county from May 18 – 25 next year.”

“As well as producing an exciting, accessible international music festival, we are approaching Cellissimo as a vehicle to creatively highlight the impacts of climate change, with a particular focus on the plight of climate migrants.” 

Galway Bay is Calling will feature an exciting interactive series of ocean literacy workshops where participants will explore Galway’s coastline and marine life through beach combing and rock pooling, attending workshops, and contributing to discussion and debate on climate change. 

The group will work with scientists and researchers at Atlantic Technological University, Galway City to understand people’s behaviours and the key approaches that can influence attitude and ignite community transformation.

Dr Maria Vittoria Marra, Education and Public Engagement Officer at Galway Atlantaquaria said: “We are delighted to have this opportunity to work with Music for Galway and ATU on this social art project which aims at harnessing the power of music and performance to increase the ocean literacy of local musicians”.

“Not only with a view to strengthen their awareness of our impacts upon the ocean and its impact upon us, but also to provide them with tools and approaches to transform ocean knowledge into behaviour and action that promote ocean sustainability.”

The Galway Bay is Calling collective will then collaborate in groups with renowned Florence-based Irish cello player, singer, and composer Naomi Berrill, to articulate their experiences of the workshop and research work, exploring ideas for community responses. 

Naomi will take these inputs and write a new composition for the collective, who will rehearse their parts independently before coming together in Galway a week before Music for Galway’s Cellissimo Festival in May 2024 to rehearse collectively.

The world premiere of Galway Bay is Calling, a new composition for solo cello and a mixed bag orchestra, will be presented at the opening day of Cellissimo in Galway on Saturday May 18, 2024.

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