As the August bank holiday approaches the HSE in the West and North West is encouraging the public to know what healthcare options are available should you or family need them.
If you urgently need to see a GP outside their clinic hours, you can contact your local GP out-of-hours service. Additional practice staff will be working over the long weekend to deal with an expected increase in demand.
You must make an appointment to see an out of hours GP, details of how to get in touch with your local service are available here.
Roscommon injury unit is also an alternative to a busy ED, treating breaks, sprains, burns and wounds and is open from 8am to 8pm 365 days per year.
The unit can see, diagnose and treat a wide range of injuries for both adults and children over five years old. You don’t need an appointment or a GP referral. Details of injury unit locations and what they can and cannot treat are available here.
Please do not visit a healthcare setting (this includes hospitals, nursing homes and residential care facilities) if you are feeling unwell. If you have any symptoms of respiratory illness, vomiting or diarrhoea you should postpone your visit.
If you or someone else is seriously ill or needs urgent emergency care do not delay going to ED or dialling 999/112 for help.
Tony Canavan, Regional Executive Officer HSE West and North West said, “As the last long weekend of the summer approaches I want to remind everyone that our health and emergency services are here for you if you need them.”
“We tend to see a high number of people attending emergency departments over bank holidays; this will be another busy weekend in our emergency services but we have plans in place to deal with an increase in demand.”
“Remember that EDs are for life threatening emergencies, patients who attend for routine and non-urgent treatment may be waiting a long time to be seen and there are other services available to you which may be more appropriate.”
“Injury Units, GP Out of Hours services and pharmacies all can provide expert advice and treatment over the long weekend.”
“Please stay safe on the roads if you are travelling and look after your mental health in addition to your physical health.”
University Hospital Galway (UHG) is dealing with an increase in COVID-19 cases throughout the hospital and Emergency Department.
The hospital is currently treating 32 patients with COVID-19, with three ward areas impacted currently with outbreaks.
Visiting hours are from 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm. However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation in some wards, the hospital is advising that the number of visitors per patient is kept to a minimum.
Where a ward is affected by COVID-19 visiting is limited to one family member / nominated person per patient per day and all visits must be pre-arranged by the family members / nominated visitor, who should contact the relevant ward or unit in advance.
Please do not visit the hospital if you have any Respiratory symptoms or have had contact with someone who has COVID-19.
Visitors are advised that they must use the alcohol hand gels regularly while at the hospital, face masks are also available for use throughout the hospital.
University Hospital Galway would like to thank members of the public for their co-operation at this time.
Gardaí have made a public appeal for help locating a woman missing over a month who was last seen in the Galway City area.
37-year-old Amy Conway has been missing from her home in Sligo Town, Co. Sligo since Wednesday, June 26.
Amy was last seen in the Galway City area. Gardaí and Amy’s family are concerned for her welfare.
She is described as being approximately 5 foot 6 inches in height, with a medium build, brown hair and brown eyes.
Anyone with any information on Amy’s whereabouts is asked to contact Sligo Garda Station on 071 915 7000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
Casinos have long been a cornerstone of entertainment and gambling, offering a broad spectrum of games that appeal to various tastes and preferences. From the high-stakes tables of poker and blackjack to the mesmerizing spins of the slot machines, the casino gaming experience is diverse and exhilarating. Whether you’re an experienced gambler or a curious newcomer, understanding the different types of casino games and their unique features can enhance your gaming experience.
For those interested in exploring these games, knowing how to navigate the online casino environment is crucial. This is where platforms like Stay Casino come into play. Stay Casino login provides access to a wide range of games and features that can elevate your gaming adventure. Below is a comprehensive guide to the main categories of casino games, each with detailed descriptions and examples to illustrate their distinct characteristics. This guide aims to provide a clearer picture of the casino world, much like how understanding the different types of slot bonuses can help players make the most of their online casino experience.
1. Slot Machines
Slot machines are the most recognizable and accessible casino games. They offer a simple yet exciting way to win money with just a spin. These games are characterized by their colorful graphics, engaging themes, and various paylines. The primary objective is to line up matching symbols on the reels to win prizes. Modern slot machines often feature bonus rounds, free spins, and progressive jackpots, adding layers of complexity and excitement.
Sub-genres:
Classic Slots: These are traditional slot machines with three reels and a limited number of paylines, reminiscent of the original mechanical slot machines.
Video Slots: These feature five or more reels, intricate themes, and numerous paylines, often including advanced features like interactive bonus games and elaborate animations.
Progressive Slots: These slots contribute a portion of each bet to a growing jackpot, which can lead to substantial payouts.
Examples:
Starburst: A popular video slot known for its vibrant colors and simple gameplay, featuring expanding wilds and re-spins.
Mega Moolah: A progressive slot famous for its enormous jackpots, offering a chance to win life-changing amounts with a single spin.
Book of Ra: A classic slot with an adventurous theme, incorporating free spins and special symbols for added excitement.
2. Table Games
Table games are casino classics that require a mix of skill, strategy, and luck. These games are typically played on a felt-covered table and involve interactions with a dealer or croupier. The variety within table games caters to different player preferences, from strategy-based games like poker to luck-based games like roulette.
Sub-genres:
Card Games: Games such as blackjack, poker, and baccarat, where players compete against the house or other players using a deck of cards.
Dice Games: Games like craps, which use dice to determine outcomes and involve a mix of betting strategies.
Wheel Games: Games like roulette, where a spinning wheel and ball determine the winning numbers or colors.
Examples:
Blackjack: Also known as 21, this card game focuses on achieving a hand total as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it.
Texas Hold’em Poker: A popular variant of poker that combines skill and strategy as players build their best hand from community cards.
Roulette: A wheel-based game where players bet on numbers, colors, or ranges, with the outcome determined by where the ball lands.
3. Roulette
Roulette is a casino staple that offers a mix of chance and excitement. The game revolves around a spinning wheel and a small ball, with players betting on where the ball will land. The wheel features numbered slots in various colors, and bets can be placed on specific numbers, colors, or ranges.
Sub-genres:
American Roulette: Features a wheel with 38 slots, including a single zero and a double zero, increasing the house edge.
European Roulette: Includes a wheel with 37 slots, featuring a single zero, which provides better odds for players.
French Roulette: Similar to European Roulette but with additional rules like “La Partage” and “En Prison” that can reduce the house edge further.
Examples:
European Roulette: Known for its single-zero wheel, offering better odds compared to American Roulette.
American Roulette: Features an extra double-zero slot, which increases the house advantage.
French Roulette: Offers additional betting options and rules that can benefit players.
4. Poker
Poker is a game of skill, strategy, and psychology, where players compete to form the best hand or bluff their opponents. The game is played in various formats and stakes, from casual home games to high-stakes casino tournaments.
Sub-genres:
Texas Hold’em: The most popular variant, where players use two hole cards and five community cards to form their best hand.
Omaha: Similar to Texas Hold’em but with four hole cards and five community cards, requiring players to use exactly two of their hole cards and three community cards.
Seven-Card Stud: A classic poker game without community cards, where players receive a mix of face-up and face-down cards.
Examples:
World Series of Poker (WSOP): A major tournament series featuring various poker games and attracting top players from around the world.
Online Poker Rooms: Platforms like PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker, offering a variety of poker games and tournaments.
5. Baccarat
Baccarat is a card game known for its simplicity and elegance. The objective is to bet on which hand, the player’s or the banker’s, will have a total closest to nine. The game is often associated with high rollers and luxurious settings.
Sub-genres:
Punto Banco: The most common variant, where the player bets on the player or banker hand, with a third option to bet on a tie.
Chemin de Fer: A version where players take turns being the banker and can make decisions on drawing cards.
Baccarat Banque: Similar to Chemin de Fer but with fixed positions for the banker and player roles.
Examples:
Punto Banco Baccarat: The standard casino version, known for its straightforward betting options.
Chemin de Fer: A more interactive version where players can influence the game by choosing whether to draw cards.
6. Craps
Craps is a dice game with a variety of betting options, known for its lively atmosphere and social interaction. Players bet on the outcome of the roll or a series of rolls, with different bets offering various odds and payouts.
Sub-genres:
Street Craps: A more informal version played on the streets with minimal equipment.
Casino Craps: The standard casino version, featuring a dedicated craps table and a range of betting options.
Examples:
Casino Craps: The traditional casino version with a variety of bets like pass line, come bets, and odds bets.
Street Craps: A casual, no-frills version often played with friends.
7. Keno
Keno is a lottery-style game where players select numbers from a set range and hope that their chosen numbers match those drawn by the casino. The game is known for its simplicity and the potential for large payouts.
Sub-genres:
Traditional Keno: The standard version where players select numbers and match them to those drawn.
Video Keno: A digital version of Keno found in online casinos and video lottery terminals.
Examples:
Traditional Keno: Played with a paper slip and a Keno machine drawing numbers.
Video Keno: An online version with various themes and betting options.
8. Specialty Games
Specialty games encompass a wide range of unique and less traditional casino offerings. These games often include elements of chance and skill and can offer a refreshing alternative to the standard casino games.
Sub-genres:
Scratch Cards: Instant-win games where players scratch off a coating to reveal symbols or numbers.
Arcade-Style Games: Modern casino games that blend elements of traditional gambling with video game mechanics.
Examples:
Scratch Cards: Instant-win tickets available in various themes and prize structures.
Keno: A lottery-style game offering a chance to win by matching selected numbers.
Conclusion
The world of casino games is vast and varied, offering something for every type of player. From the spinning reels of slot machines to the strategic depths of poker and baccarat, each game provides a unique experience. Understanding the different categories and their specific features can help you make informed choices and enhance your enjoyment. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of the slots or the strategic challenge of table games, the casino landscape is rich with opportunities for fun and fortune. If you have a favorite game or a unique casino experience, feel free to share and continue the conversation about the diverse and exciting world of casino gaming.
Minister Hildegarde Naughton TD, inspecting Loci Orthopaedics’ innovative InDx Implant System for thumb base joint arthritis.
(L-R) Dr Brendan Boland, Co-Founder and Executive Chairperson, Gerry Clarke, Co-Founder and CTO, Barry Russell, CEO, Hildegarde Naughton, TD, Government Chief Whip and Minister of State in the Department of Education. Photo:Andrew Downes, xposure
Galway based medtech startup Loci Orthopaedics is creating 20 new jobs with the opening of its new offices in the city.
Loci Orthopaedics Ltd, a clinical stage orthopaedic medical device company, has officialy opened of its new office in Ballybrit Business Park, Galway.
The opening was carried out by Hildegarde Naughton, TD, Government Chief Whip and Minister of State in the Department of Education.
The company is also pleased to announce the creation of 20 new jobs, ranging from recent graduates to senior executives in research and development, quality management and regulatory affairs, bringing its total team in Ireland to 32 employees.
Galway TD Hildegarde Naughton commented, “I’m delighted to attend the official opening of Loci Orthopaedics’ new office in Ballybrit Business Park and welcome the creation of 20 new high skilled jobs in our local community in Galway.”
“This is an important week for Loci Orthopaedics following the successful closing of a €12.8 million Series A financing round on Wednesday, investment which will drive the future growth of the business.”
“Through focused and sustained investment, the Government is committed to creating the right conditions for innovative companies such as Loci Orthopaedics to succeed.”
“In Galway we have a thriving ecosystem of medical technology start-ups, developing novel solutions for various unmet clinical needs, many of which have originated from the BioInnovate Ireland Fellowship programme.”
Loci Orthopaedic’s primary device, its patented InDx Implant System, is an innovative, evidence-based implant for thumb base joint arthritis.
Thumb base joint arthritis is a highly and increasingly prevalent condition, which is estimated to actively affect up to 5% of the US and EU population and 100 million people worldwide.
The InDx implant is designed to replicate the functional biomechanics of the thumb base joint, with the aim of restoring natural motion for those affected by this painful and disabling condition.
InDx’s novel design and biomechanics have the potential to address the limitations of current thumb implants which are often unsuccessful and are prone to both dislocation and movement post implantation.
Barry Russell, CEO, Loci Orthopaedics, added: “The opening of our new office and expansion of our team in Galway represents a significant milestone for Loci Orthopaedics and we are honoured Minister Naughton, TD is here to celebrate this event with us.”
“The recent successful €12.8 million Series A financing from leading international investors, the largest medical technology fundraising so far in Ireland in 2024 and the largest orthopaedic fundraising ever for an indigenous Irish med-tech startup company, strongly endorses the potential of our InDx Implant System.”
“We are excited to strengthen our team with 20 new high skilled jobs in Galway, as we expand our clinical programs and prepare regulatory submissions in the US and EU.”
Students of ATU Connemara pictured earlier last month during a visit to the Uaxactún Community Forest in Guatemala as part of their participation in the Cities4Forests Partner Forest Programme. Photo by ATU Connemara.
County Galway has become the first Irish participant in an international programme aimed at sequestering millions of tonnes of carbon through partnerships with communities who are successfully conserving tropical forests.
Galway County Council has partnered with Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Connemara, WoodConnect – Ireland’s wood industry cluster, Pilot Projects and Greenville Procurement Partners as part of the Cities4Forests Partner Forest Programme through which partners are invited to source tropical hardwood from exemplary community forest conservation enterprises to be used in prominent public infrastructure.
Students from ATU Connemara’s School of Design & Creative Arts last month visited the fast-growing Guatemalan community forests of Uaxactún and Carmelita, which collectively protect 320,000 acres of rainforest, as part of their delivery of a sustainable tropical wood skills project.
Items of street furniture produced by the students from conservation timber are currently on public exhibition at the ATU Connemara campus ahead of their permanent installation at various locations throughout the town of Clifden. A number of pieces will also be exhibited at Áras an Chontae in Galway City.
As part of the initiative, the project partners are co-creating a green and sustainable purchasing policy for wood in furniture and construction in County Galway.
“We are honoured to be the only Irish partner in an international programme that includes New York, Copenhagen, Glasgow, Quito, Paris, Turin and Amsterdam,” stated Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council.
He continued, “The major learnings from our participation in the programme to date is the necessity of adopting sustainable practices around timber procurement and how the economic support of community-led businesses in well-managed forest areas is one of the proven ways to conserve forests.”
Mr. Conneally confirmed that Galway County Council is currently at draft stage in its development of a Green Public Procurement Strategy which includes a process for the sustainable procurement of wood.
Paul Leamy, Head of ATU Connemara Campussaid, “One of the outcomes from the project was the design and manufacture of outdoor furniture for Clifden Town by ATU students using conservation timber from partner forests to raise awareness of the importance of the sustainable procurement of wood.”
“The students have completed wonderful projects, and we now invite the public to view the furniture items and learn more about the community enterprises protecting tropical forests and the conservation benefits of using sustainably sourced wood.”
Commonly referred to as the “lungs of the planet”, tropical rainforests are under increasing threat from large-scale farming and ranching, infrastructure and urban development, unsustainable logging, mining and climate change.
However, the Cities4Forests Partner Forest Programme has demonstrated that low impact forestry practices with a focus on conservation is helping to protect tropical rainforests, which is a major step towards restoring the earth’s carbon balance.
Scott Francisco, Cities4Forests Director and Founder and Director of Pilot Projects commented, “The Partner Forest Programme promotes mutually beneficial relationships between local governments and faraway forests to help promote knowledge of the sustainable consumption of forest products, protect biodiversity, restore global climate health and support forest communities’ livelihoods and wellbeing.”
“Tropical timber, particularly from species of hardwood trees that are not generally regarded as commercially viable can be sustainable as it has impact beyond its material, including on people and the environment, when it is sourced correctly and sustainably,” he added.
“Local and municipal authorities participating in the Partner Forest Programme, can bring their learnings from this project into their own policy making, daily operations, and management and nurturing of local forests and treescapes with benefits for the environment and the communities they serve.”
The current situation of the Hungarian online gambling is characterized by strict regulation, state monopolies, and steady liberalization. As you will see when exploring this complex landscape of digital betting and gaming, there is a highly regulated and gradually liberalizing market. Now let’s look at the specifics of the Hungarian online casino regulation and find out what makes this Central European country’s attitude to iGaming so special.
Legal Framework Governing Online Casinos
“A https://casinorix.com/hu/ oldal tapasztalatai szerint a magyar online kaszinók szabályozása egyedülálló kihívásokat és lehetőségeket teremt. Bár a piac szigorú ellenőrzés alatt áll, a fokozatos liberalizáció új távlatokat nyit meg a felelősségteljes játékosok és innovatív operátorok előtt. A jövő izgalmas fejleményeket tartogat a hazai szerencsejáték-szektorban,” states Fenyves Dávid, a CasinoRIX experienced gambler & writer.
The legal framework of Hungary’s online gambling is anchored on the Gambling Act of 1991, which has been reviewed severally to reflect current trends. The most important shifts occurred in 2013 when online gambling was made legal and in 2023 when sports betting was liberalized.
However, the peculiarity of Hungary’s approach is that the state still controls most of the forms of online gambling. The state-owned Szerencsejáték Zrt retains exclusive rights to conduct online lotteries and most of the casino games. This leads to the development of a market structure that is a blend of state control and a small amount of private competition.
It is also important to mention that the National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) and the SARA (SZTFH) are the main authorities controlling licensing, conformity, and sanctions.
Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/3894215/
Licensing Process for Online Casinos
The process of getting a license for the operation of an online casino in Hungary is a very stringent one, which is in tandem with the government’s conservative approach to market liberalization.
For a company to be granted a license, it must show that it has sufficient financial capacity, and the minimum paid up capital is one billion HUF (equivalent to 2.6 million Euros). Furthermore, operators must have at least five years of experience in the provision of licensed online gambling services in the European Economic Area.
One of the peculiarities of Hungary’s licensing is that to obtain an online casino license, the operator must have a land-based casino concession. This rather peculiar condition poses a major threat to purely online operators.
Licenses are usually issued for a term of between 5 and 7 years and can be renewed. The renewal process is also very stringent where the operators are expected to prove that they follow current laws and regulations as well as best practices in responsible gaming.
Consumer Protection Measures
As for the player protection, Hungary uses the necessary measures to prevent the development of gambling addiction. Customers must always have the ability to exclude themselves and also set their own individual betting limits.
The measures against underage gambling are most stringent in Hungary. The age verification measures are strict, and operators are obliged to follow them; the penalties for non-adherence are stiff. This commitment to safeguarding the minors makes Hungary different from some other European jurisdictions where enforcement could be less strict.
Taxation and Economic Impact
The taxation policies on online casinos in Hungary are another factor that defines the market specifics. Operators in the online sports betting sector are subjected to a tax of 15% on their GGR while those in the online casino games are subjected to a higher tax of 20%.
What sets Hungary apart from the other countries is the extra ‘public health product tax’ to be charged on the operators. This tax which depends on the type of game being offered is intended to finance programs on compulsive gambling and other health related causes.
High taxes and strict regulations are the main factors that make the operating conditions unfavorable for the operators. However, it also makes sure that only those who are willing to make good on their commitments and to contribute to the social welfare of the society get into the market.
Conclusion
To conclude, the specifics of the Hungarian legislation regarding online casinos can be characterized as the state’s desire to maintain control over the market while gradually liberalizing it.
When you will start to navigate through online gambling in Hungary you will find yourself in a system that has been created to safeguard players, ensure high standards of operation and work for the benefit of the society. Despite the existing issues, the Hungarian iGaming market has a lot of potential for further growth, which makes it possible to speak about the market’s development in the following years.
Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following a serious single-vehicle road traffic incident involving a bicycle on Achill, Co. Mayo, on Tuesday morning.
A male cyclist (50s) was conveyed to Galway University Hospital for treatment for serious injuries following the incident at on the L1406 Dugort to Slievemore road.
The road was closed for technical examination by Forensic Collision Investigators, and has since reopened.
Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident to come forward.
Road users with camera footage (including dash-cam) who were traveling on the L1406 Dugort to Slievemore road on Achill, Co. Mayo, yesterday, Tuesday 30th July 2024, between 9.30am and 12noon, are asked to make this footage available to Gardaí.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Westport Garda Station on 098 50230, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
Over 400,000 people travelled to this year’s Galway International Arts Festival with record breaking attendance once again.
The two week extravaganza came to a close on Sunday night with a sold out concert from the Saw Doctors at the Heineken Big Top.
Among the top events, a stunning 13,379 attendees queued to see Patricia Piccinin’s ‘We Travel Together’ visual arts exhibit in the Festival Gallery on Saturday, July 20 alone.
Thousands more people enjoyed a weekend of free street events over the middle weekend of the festival, from acrobatics in Eyre Square with Les P’Tit Bras’ West Wind, to Planète Vapeur’s Pegasus, and GIAF’s entire visual arts programme, which is offered free of charge.
GIAF threw open its doors even further this year, with a suite of additional accessibility measures, including ISL interpreted and close captioned performances, a touch tour of the Festival Gallery and the provision of sensory backpacks, all of which proved extremely popular.
Galway International Arts Festival CEO John Crumlish said, “It was a privilege to present GIAF 2024 and, on behalf of us all, I would like to thank our audiences who attended in such numbers.”
“This was our biggest festival to date and we are very thankful to all those who came, those that supported us and all the great artists whose work made it all possible.”
Critics raved over the festival’s co-productions Reunion and Unspeakable Conversations. Reunion now goes onto Dublin Theatre Festival, with a run at the Gaiety from 8-13 October.
There were also five star reviews for Druid’s Endgame, with the world renowned Galway theatre company bringing their unique touch to Beckett.
Galway International Arts Festival Artistic Director Paul Fahy said, “We have had an extraordinary response from audiences and artists to this year’s Festival.”
“It is always such a thrill to present great art from Ireland and around the world in Galway and our artists loved performing and showing their work to such an appreciative, engaged and enthusiastic audience.”
“We are extremely grateful to all our artists, co-producers and partners for their incredible work once again this year.”
Galway International Arts Festival 2025 will take place from 14-27 July 2025.
Galway RNLI volunteer crew on board the Atlantic 85 lifeboat Binny on a training exercise.
The Galway RNLI lifeboat came to the aid a yacht which had become stranded in the bay after its mast broke over the weekend.
Following a call from the Irish Coast Guard on Saturday morning, the volunteer crew made up of Helm Dave Badger, Sean King and Lisa McDonagh, launched the inshore lifeboat Binny.
They then headed to the location of the casualty yacht off Renville Point, on inner Galway Bay. Conditions at sea were good with light winds.
On arrival at the scene, one of the crew went aboard the stricken yacht to assess the casualty and determine the best course of action to make the yacht safe.
The sailor who was alone on the yacht did not need medical help and with the assistance of the crew was able make the mast and rigging, which had been in the water, safe so that the sailor could get underway safely.
The lifeboat crew then escorted the yacht, which was once more able to make way under its own steam, back to Renville Harbour
Mike Guilfoyle, Launch Authority with Galway RNLI said on Saturday, “Today’s shout was a good reminder of the importance of being able to stay in touch by radio or phone when you go out on the water yachting or motorboating.”
“You never know when something can go wrong and you may need to call for help. If you if you get into difficulty or see someone in difficulty in the water, please dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
Armagh and Galway contested the 2024 All-Ireland SFC Final at Croke Park on Sunday. Photo by Harry Murphy/Sportsfile
The Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway has paid tribute to the Galway Senior Footballers following their defeat to Armagh in the All-Ireland Senior Football Final at Croke Park.
Galway narrowly lost the Sam Maguire to Armagh after a narrow 1-11 to 0-13 defeat in Croke Park this afternoon.
Councillor Albert Dolan said, “On behalf of the Elected Members and staff of Galway County Council, I want to congratulate Padraic Joyce, his management team, captain Seán Kelly and the squad for the honour and pleasure they have brought to the people of Galway during 2024.”
“The pride, passion and skill demonstrated by this group of players and management during this year’s Championship is a tribute to everybody associated with Galway football.”
“The performances, including in the Connacht Championship and in the wins over Dublin and Donegal, are a wonderful demonstration of the sporting talent that exists in County Galway and how our footballers are able to compete with the game’s top intercounty sides,” he added.
He acknowledged that the loss is a “bitter blow” but predicted that the team will come back stronger to make another run next year.
“The people of Galway are a proud people with an unrivalled passion for sport. Whether it be in Pearse Stadium, Eamon Deacy Park or the Dexcom Stadium, you can be guaranteed that the people of Galway will be there to support their team.”
“We have followed our footballers through good times and bad times, and we will continue to do so,” concluded the Cathaoirleach.
Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council commented, “I wish to congratulate the team and management, and everyone associated with Galway GAA on their memorable 2024 Championship campaign.”
“This group of players have done their county proud, and we look forward to welcoming them home to Galway tomorrow night.”
The advice from all agencies involved in the management of the match is to utilise public transport for travelling to and from the match and use park and ride facilities.
On Sunday 28th July 2024, Iarnród Éireann will provide additional capacity on DART and Commuter routes for patrons attending the All Ireland Football Final in Croke Park Stadium.
All trains between Galway and Dublin for this weekend’s All-Ireland Senior Football Final have been sold out.
Irish Rail added extra services this Sunday in anticipation of intense demand for people travelling to Croke Park.
Additional Late Night DART & Commuter Services :
Additional services will operate to Greystones, Howth and Maynooth* after the Match.
These additional services along with all regular services can be viewed through the journey planner.
Additional Late Night Intercity Services : Please check www.irishrail.ie for up to date information.
Dublin Bus routes servicing Croke Park Stadium and its immediate environs.
Merlin Park University Hospital (MPUH) welcomes the publication by Health Information Quality Authority (HIQA) of its report of the assessment of compliance with medical exposure to ionizing radiation regulations at MPUH.
An announced inspection at MPUH was carried out at the hospital on the 20th of March 2024. Inspectors visited the DXA and general X-ray departments in MPUH.
This inspection was carried out to assess compliance with the European Union (Basic Safety Standards for Protection against Dangers Arising from Medical Exposure to Ionising Radiation) Regulations 2018 and 2019.
A medical exposure to ionising radiation is when a patient receives ionising radiation as part of their diagnosis or treatment.
During this inspection, HIQA looked at 13 Standards in relation to governance and management arrangements for medical exposures and safe delivery of medical exposures. Of these, Merlin Park University Hospital was compliant with 9 standards and substantially compliant with 4 standards.
Chris Kane, Hospital Manager at Galway University Hospitals which encompasses Merlin Park University Hospital said, “We welcome this report and recognise the important and valuable role of HIQA in promoting safety and quality in the healthcare services.”
“Regulation drives better, safer care for patients and regulation of medical exposures helps ensure that each hospital that administers radiation meets Irish and European legislative requirements.”
“This report highlights many areas where we are compliant and some areas that will need improvement but overall is a positive report for MPUH and we welcome the fact that the inspectors were assured we have strong radiation safety measures in place to protect patients and staff and we will work to strengthen this in areas identified.”
“I would like to acknowledge the on-going commitment and dedication of our staff in providing a patient centred approach and we will work together to build on the good practice highlighted in this report.”
Two days of racing from this year’s Galway Races Summer Festival will be broadcast live on TG4 on Friday 2nd and Saturday 3rd of August, the station has confirmed.
The live coverage on TG4 will include a packed race card with 16 races shown over the two days to a free-to-air audience.
The live broadcast from Ballybrit will be a welcome return to the racecourse for the Irish language broadcaster, after its successful coverage from the festival last year.
Rásaí Beo will be presented by Seán Bán Breathnach, with analysis by Mánus Ó Conghaile and Evelyn Ní Ghriallais.
Racing journalist Daragh Ó Conchúir will be getting all the reactions from trainers, owners and jockeys outside the parade ring, race commentary will be provided by Cárthach Bán Breathnach, and Meghann Scullywill also be reporting live from Ballybrit.
The team will be providing the TG4 audience with comprehensive coverage from the racecourse and no doubt there will be some craic agus spraoi to be had in Ballybrit as well.
Galway Races Chief Executive, Michael Moloney said, “We are delighted to have the team from TG4 back again with us here at Galway Racecourse on both the Friday and Saturday of our Summer Festival.”
“We look forward to welcoming our much-valued racegoers back to Ballybrit. The stage is now set. A warm welcome awaits.”
Rásaí Beo is produced by Waterford based company Nemeton TV. The team in An Rinn Gaeltacht also produce Laochra Gael, Peil na mBan Beo and GAA Beo for TG4.
In the lead up to the TG4’s coverage, TG4 weather and continuity presenter Caitríona Ní Chualáin will be visiting the famous racecourse and giving TG4 Social Media audiences exclusive behind the scenes access to the craic and the style over the two days. Follow @TG4TV and @SpórtTG4 social channels.
TG4’s Head of Sport, Rónán Ó Coisdealbha said, “TG4 would like to thank Galway Racecourse and Horse Racing Ireland for giving the station the opportunity to showcase this historic race meet to a free-to-air audience.”
“The Summer Festival is one of the highlights of the Galway social scene and TG4 is proud to be broadcasting all the races, news and social highlights from Ballybrit on Friday and Saturday.”
The full TG4 Galway Races schedule is as follows:
FRIDAY, August 2
Live coverage begins on TG4 at 4.50pm
RÁSAÍ na GAILLIMHE BEO
1st Race 5.00pm The Guinness Galway Tribes Handicap Hurdle
2nd Race 5.30pm The James’s Gate Irish EBF Median Auction Maiden
3rd Race 6.00pm The Guinness Galway Blazers Handicap Steeplechase
4th Race 6.35pm The Guinness Handicap**
5th Race 7.10pm The Guinness Irish EBF Fillies Maiden
6th Race 7.40pm The Arthur Guinness Handicap
7th Race 8.10pm The Rockshore Refreshingly Irish Race
8th Race 8.40pm The Hop House 13 Handicap
SATURDAY, August 3
Live coverage begins on TG4 at 1.50pm
RÁSAÍ na GAILLIMHE BEO
1st Race 1.55pm The BoyleSports Download The App Maiden Hurdle
2nd Race 2.30pm The BoyleSports Handicap Hurdle
3rd Race 3.05pm The BoyleSports Casino Irish EBF Maiden
4th Race 3.40pm The Bathshack Maiden
5th Race 4.15pm The Grá Chocolates Irish EBF Nursery Handicap
6th Race 4.50pm The Ardilaun Hotel Handicap
7th Race 5.25pm The McDonogh Capital Investments Handicap
8th Race 5.55pm The BoyleSports Irish EBF Mares Flat Race”
Galway County Council is organising bulky goods waste collection events in multiple towns which will run for two weeks in July and August.
The waste collection events will be held at Tuam, Ballinasloe, and Clifen Civic Amenity Sites and at Barna Recycling Waste Facility on the Headford Road.
For €5, people can recycle upholstered furniture, wardrobes, bedside lockers, mattresses, bed frames, dining tables and chairs.
The waste collection events will run from Monday, July 29 until Sunday, August 11.
Items which will not be accepted include construction and demolition waste, hazardous waste, bags of household waste, toys, trampolines, ceramic and textiles.
Pre-booking via Barna Recycling in advance is essential to avail of the €5 gate fee, otherwise you will be required to pay the gate fee and a weighbridge fee.
The service is for county householders only, and commercial operators will be turned away.
A literary collection owned by the late entrepreneur, local historian and supporter of the arts, Ronnie O’Gorman, has been donated to University of Galway.
The bequest was finalised by Ronnie O’Gorman, the founder and publisher of the Galway Advertiser, before he died in May 2024. It will reside in the University’s Library as part of its Special Collections.
The carefully curated collection features many rare and significant works of Irish literature, representing his deep appreciation of Irish writing, the history of publishing in the country and his lifelong passion for the collection and promotion of Irish literature and art.
The works also span three generations of the O’Gorman family and many of the volumes reflect the family’s long interest in the history of Galway, about which Ronnie wrote extensively.
The collection was presented at a special event at University of Galway Library earlier in the year, attended by Ronnie O’Gorman and family, as well as friends and associates.
Outgoing President of the University of Galway Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh said, “The O’Gorman Collection is a tremendous gift to the University community and it is particularly poignant that the collection will reside in our Library where Ronnie O’Gorman’s grandfather Philip worked.”
“Ronnie O’Gorman was a man of huge insight, huge foresight, in establishing the Advertiser and the sense of community that developed for Galway.”
“As we celebrate the donation of such a beautiful gift, I also remember and cherish the day that we had with Ronnie on campus early in 2024, a day that had generosity, community, atmosphere – all of those things that characterised Ronnie O’Gorman.”
The collection includes a first edition of James Joyce’s Ulysses; one of 250 signed copies of a New York Limited Editions Club first edition Ulysses, with illustrations by the French artist Henri Matisse, signed by both the artist and Joyce; and The Aran Islands, by John Millington Synge, with 12 hand-coloured illustrations by Jack B. Yeats, which the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography described as ”the great prose manifesto of the Irish literary revival”.
As well as more rare and beautiful volumes collected by Ronnie O’Gorman, his father Frank and also his grandfather Philip, who worked as Library Clerk in the University of Galway Library in the late 19th century, the collection also includes two 19th Century Walter Osborne paintings – Galway Fowl Market and Galway Fish Market.
Ben O’Gorman, son of Ronnie O’Gorman, said, “Our family is delighted that we were able to keep the collection together and for it to be donated to the University – somewhere that really appreciates it.”
“Ronnie took such joy in curating his collection, it was in many ways his life’s work, so to be able to keep it in one place, for the future, for others to enjoy, is a great legacy.”
University of Galway Librarian Monica Crump added, “We are grateful to all three generations of the O’Gorman family for their commitment to collecting these wonderful works and looking after them so well in the intervening years.”
“ And we are immensely grateful to Ronnie and the O’Gorman family for entrusting us with these volumes. We are committed to continuing the good work of the O’Gormans, of preserving them, keeping them safe, and making them available for students and researchers into the future.”
The Loughrea-based environmental engineering company turnover increased by over 50% in 2023 from €97 million (YE Dec 2022) to €150 million (YE Dec 2023). Photo: Andrew Downes, xposure
Galway based engineering company Glanua has welcomed new strategic funding from Rabobank that will further support their ambitious growth plans.
Glanua Group Ltd. specialises in delivering innovative and sustainable engineering solutions to design, build and maintain critical water and wastewater infrastructure across Ireland and the UK.
Headquartered in Loughrea, Co. Galway, the company employs over 500 people, with a manufacturing facility in Navan, Co Meath.
The exact financial details of the funding remain undisclosed, but the financing will significantly enhance Glanua’s capacity to scale its business and expand its presence in the UK’s water and wastewater industry.
Much of this growth will be driven by forthcoming acquisitions, which Glanua expects to complete within the coming months.
Rabobank’s funding follows a period of significant growth for Glanua in the past 12 months following the company’s rebranding in July 2023.
The company’s turnover increased by 50% for the full year to December 2023, and it has opened four new offices in Belfast, Cork, Reading and London.
Glanua’s headcount grew by 190 since July 2023, as it exceeded its original recruitment target of 100 new staff for the year.
Glanua’s long-term strategic plan is to grow turnover to €400 million by 2028.
Karl Zimmerer, CEO of Glanua, said, “We are delighted to receive significant strategic funding for our company from Rabobank. Partnering with such a reputable bank is a huge endorsement and reflects the substantial potential for future growth that Glanua continues to demonstrate.”
“A core part of our partnership with Rabobank is based in our shared values around sustainability.”
“This new funding will ensure Glanua is well-positioned to capitalise on the increased importance of environmental action and the emerging benefits of the circular economy.”
“Glanua is passionate about solving today’s environmental challenges and delivering a decarbonised and sustainable world.”
Glanua has committed to reaching Net Zero by 2040 and continues to accelerate their action in areas like nature-based solutions, renewable energy, biodiversity, integrating innovative and sustainable technologies, and driving operational efficiencies.
Fiona Egan, Managing Director, Rabobank Ireland, said: “We are delighted to partner with Glanua and support their ambitious growth journey. Sustainability is at the core of everything we do at Rabobank, and we look forward to working with Glanua, a leader for sustainability in the water industry.”
Glanua provides innovative and turnkey engineering solutions in the water and wastewater industry. It works with local authorities and private clients in the food and pharmaceutical sectors in Ireland and UK to deliver innovative and sustainable water and wastewater solutions.
A key part of this strategy is to expand in the UK and grow their industrial business. In line with this, Glanua have made a recent senior appointment of Keith Hayward as Managing Director – Industrial Division to lead the company’s anticipated growth in the industrial sector over the next five years.
Dating and getting to know someone special is a lovely experience. However, it’s best to maintain self-care so that you do not lose touch with yourself. It’s possible to continue dating someone and have self-care habits to fill your cup.
One self-care tactic could be enjoying some games to help take your mind off a stressful day. Engaging in casino games can be a thrilling experience with some added benefits if luck is on your side. Even though not every bet is a guaranteed win, the thrill of the betting experience is already a reward in itself.
Understand Your Needs and Boundaries
What do you want out of this relationship? Identifying your core values can help determine where you want the relationship to go. There may be a certain religion you follow, a specific way you want to be treated, or a particular family dynamic that you dream your significant other would join. For example, if you want to have children in the future but your significant other does not, this could be a point of contention in the relationship.
What are certain boundaries that you do not want to cross with your significant other? These are the non-negotiables that must be met for the relationship to stay intact. Such boundaries could include cheating and not engaging in domestic violence. Personally noting these factors will help you to understand how you want the relationship dynamic to pan out.
Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle
Maintaining a balance while in a relationship is essential for its success. It’s only natural to want to spend almost every minute with your significant other. However, receiving personal space and focusing on other sectors of your lifestyle will fill your cup to achieve this balance.
Focus on eating a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy. Make sure to get enough sleep every night amounting to at least 6 to 8 hours so that you are well-rested to handle the day’s tasks and engage in fun activities with your significant other.
Practice Mindfulness and Self-Awareness
Mindfulness is important to help you recognize where you are personally within yourself and your relationship. While you can vent to your significant other about what’s happening in your life, journaling could be a great outlet as well when practicing mindfulness. Try exercises such as meditation and deep breathing to physically and emotionally connect with yourself while finding a way to relax.
Staying in tune with self-awareness can help you identify how you’re currently feeling about what’s personally going on in your life and how dating in general is affecting your mood. Be honest with your partner and inform them if you need space for yourself. Believe it or not, giving one another personal space is more beneficial than you may think and you will both come back stronger as a unit.
Set Realistic Expectations
Nobody is perfect. We are all human, after all. Hence, it’s best to set realistic expectations when you are dating and not place undue pressure on your partner for having to achieve a certain level of perfection to stay with you. For example, even if you both do not have the same hobbies, you can learn about one another’s favorite engagements without becoming fully invested into them just out of respect in learning more about the other person.
Relationships that just formed or are even years in are always a work in progress with adjusting the kinks. Connections between you and your date should develop naturally rather than forcibly for a happier relationship dynamic without resentment.
Recognize and Avoid Toxic Patterns
You two are dating each other to uplift and support one another. If your partner is treating you badly and causing toxicity in the relationship, it’s best to recognize these red flags early before a trauma bond forms. Staying in a relationship where you both respect one another and you have utmost self-respect for yourself is important.
World’s largest Galway hooker has been donated back to the county:
Bádóirí an Chladaigh, the classic boat-building and training group has taken formal possession of the timber-built vessel, Naomh Bairbre. At a ceremony in the Claddagh Basin on Saturday 20 July new city mayor, Fianna Fáil councillor Peter Keane along with (Names)
When Connemara carpenter Steve Mulkerrins said he was going to build and sail a Galway hooker from Chicago to home, no one quite believed him.
Not only did he construct the largest ever Galway hooker in his shed, with much help, but he sailed it through the Great Lakes and across the Atlantic in 2006 – and now he is donating it for sail training and the arts in Galway city.
“At all of 47-foot (14 metres) long and with a 47-foot high mast, the Naomh Bairbre will be seen by everyone when it is in the Claddagh Basin.We are delighted with Steve’s gesture, and we plan to ensure it becomes a municipal floating arts space for artists and musicians who can use it when it is not out sailing.Given Galway’s relative lack of artistic venues, the opportunity may prove invaluable for young artists,Peter Connollyof Bádóirí an Chladaigh said.Pic:Peter Connolly, Steve Mulkerrins, Mayor of Galway Peter Keane & Barbra Mulkerrins.
Bádóirí an Chladaigh, the classic boat-building and training group, has announced the official donation and transfer of the Naomh Bairbre, the world’s largest Galway hooker, back to Galway County.
The handover ceremony took place in the Claddagh Basin on Saturday, July 20, 2024, attended by the new city mayor, Fianna Fáil councillor Peter Keane, alongside notable community figures (pictured).
The Naomh Bairbre’s new role as a sail training vessel and a floating arts space promises to enrich Galway’s maritime and cultural heritage, offering a unique platform for both seasoned sailors and budding artists.
When Connemara carpenter Steve Mulkerrins declared his intention to build and sail a Galway hooker from Chicago to his homeland, it seemed an ambitious dream.
Remarkably, not only did he accomplish this feat, constructing the largest Galway hooker ever in his shed with the help of many supporters, but he also sailed it through the Great Lakes and across the Atlantic in 2006.
Today, he donated this magnificent vessel to serve as a sail training platform and a floating arts space in Galway City.
“At 47 feet (14 meters) long and with a 47-foot-high mast, the Naomh Bairbre is a striking presence in the Claddagh Basin,” said Peter Connolly of Bádóirí an Chladaigh.
“We are delighted with Steve’s gesture, and we plan to ensure it becomes a municipal floating arts space for artists and musicians who can use it when it is not out sailing. Given Galway’s relative lack of artistic venues, this opportunity may prove invaluable for young artists.”
Mulkerrins, originally from Maumeen, Co Galway, expressed his desire for the Naomh Bairbre to remain in Galway, emphasising its heritage as a Galway hooker.
“I want it to stay now in Galway, as it is called a Galway hooker for a reason, and it will be a great boat for sailing training and day trips in the bay, and for artists in the winter.”
He embarked on this project while living and working in Chicago for 12 years, and in Boston before that.
With the support of his wife Agnes and their three children, he imported wood from Wicklow in two 12-meter containers and invested a significant amount of his own money into the construction. The project saw contributions from various individuals, including balladeer John Flaherty.
The inspiration behind the ambitious journey was to honour the memory of his late father, Colm. The 3,200 km navigation from Chicago to the Hudson River marked the beginning of a meticulously planned voyage home.
Naomh Bairbre traversed the Great Lakes, ventured to Newfoundland, returned south to New York, and finally made the Atlantic crossing in 2006.
The journey culminated after 28 days at sea, with a triumphant arrival past the Aran Islands and into the quay at Maumeen, accompanied by his shipmates Pat and Tom Joyce, Coley Newell, and Barney Flaherty.
Reflecting on the journey with Lorna Siggins in the Irish Independent, Mr Mulkerrins remarked, “Hard to believe it was 18 years ago that we sailed into Connemara. It is a great sea boat, and I know Peter Connolly and his crew will look after it well.”
The All-Ireland Senior Football Final between Galway and Armagh will be up on the big screen in Pearse Stadium for fans who can’t make it to Dublin next weekend.
A Galway Fanzone will be created at Pearse Stadium, Salthill on Sunday 28 July for the All-Ireland Senior Football Final.
The fanzone is being organised by Galway City Council and it will be a free, ticketed event. Tickets will be available shortly from www.GalwayCity.ie.
Mayor of Galway City, Cllr Peter Keane said, ‘I am delighted that Galway City Council will host this family-friendly event for the All-Ireland football final.”
“The clash between Galway and Armagh is going to be an epic battle in Croke Park, and it will be great for thousands to be able to watch it on the big screen here in Pearse Stadium.”
“At full time I am hopeful that the Tribesmen will be returning the Sam Maguire back to the West!”
Patrons will be accommodated both on the field and in the stand depending on their ticket.
The match will be shown on a 10m x 6m fully HD screen with a state-of-the-art stadium sound system installed for the event.
Paul Bellew, Chairperson of Galway GAA said, “We are delighted the Galway Fanzone will take place in Pearse Stadium on All Ireland Final day.”
“A big thank to you to Galway City Council for making this family friendly event happen and we hope it will prove to be a memorable day for all.”
Patrons should note that:
Doors open at 1:30pm – only valid ticket holders will be admitted
TV coverage will be shown from 2:15pm. Throw in at 3:30 PM
All under 16s need to be accompanied by an adult
Consumption of alcohol is not permitted
Patrons must obey event stewards and Gardaí
Please respect neighbours around the stadium and do not park illegally
Dress for the weather – no umbrellas allowed in the Fanzone.
Enjoy the game!
No parking is provided in the vicinity of the stadium. Patrons are advised to walk or cycle to the event, or to use public transport.
Motorists attending the event should use city centre car parks or car parks in Salthill, and continue to the stadium on foot/ public transport.
A limited amount of car parking will be available to the public at (Coláiste Éinde) St.Enda’s Secondary School on Threadneedle Road, H91 X798.
People should note that in the interest of Health and Safety, the Gardaí and Stewards may restrict vehicular entry/egress at times of high pedestrian traffic in the area.
The screening on Sunday will result in increased traffic in Galway City, Salthill and Pearse Stadium areas and we urge all supporters to arrive early, in order to avoid traffic congestion and potential delays entering the Stadium.
The usual match day food and drink concessions will be available on site with additional family entertainment to help build up the atmosphere.
This is a ticket only event, no tickets will be available at the ground on the day. Please have your tickets available for scanning as you approach the stadium.
This event is brought to you by Galway City Council and Galway GAA, in partnership with our colleagues in the emergency services.
From soundwaves to skeletons and nettles to nanotechnology, short science videos made by young Irish filmmakers have been celebrated at the 12th Annual ReelLIFE SCIENCE...
Thousands of homes in Connemara are without power this morning after Storm Bert brought heavy wind and rain overnight.
Power outages are continuing to affect...
