Gardaí in Roscommon are investigating all circumstances surrounding the discovery of a woman’s body at a private residence in Kilglass, Co. Roscommon this morning.
The woman, aged in her 30s, was discovered unresponsive this morning, Saturday, before 9am.
The body of the woman was removed from the scene to University Hospital Galway.
A post-mortem examination will be conducted by the Office of the State Pathologist, tomorrow, Sunday, the results of which will determine the course of the investigation.
The scene at Kilglass, Co. Roscommon is currently preserved for a technical examination.
Gardaí in Castlerea are appealing to any person who may have information in relation to this incident to contact them at Castlerea Garda Station on 094 962 1630, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) will mark World Food Safety Day on Wednesday, 7 June with a ‘Breakfast Bite’ webinar titled ‘Starting a Food Business – What you Need to Know’.
The ‘Breakfast Bite’ webinars are a series of free, informal virtual meetings for food businesses and for people who may be thinking of setting up a food business.
Participants will hear the FSAI’s Advice Line Team – Niamh Dowling, Chloe Coen and Kevin Rowland – outline best practice on setting up a food business, who you need to contact, and the food legislation with which you need to comply.
All types of food businesses are covered by the presentation, including food trucks and other mobile units.
The webinar is free and the link to register can be found here.
There will be an opportunity for participants to ask all panel members questions following their presentations.
Dr Pamela Byrne, CEO of FSAI, is encouraging people to sign up for the Breakfast Bite webinar.
“We would call on anyone who is considering or currently setting up a food business to attend this short webinar which will cover everything you need to know on food safety and hygiene,” she said.
“It’s crucial for all food businesses to understand and comply with food legislation and so we also urge food business owners and operators to attend the webinar as a refresher.”
Wednesday, 7 June also marks World Food Safety Day.
Dr Byner said that through World Food Safety Day, the World Health Organizationworks to mainstream food safety in the public agenda and reduce the burden of foodborne diseases globally.
“Consumers have a right to safe food and all food businesses – whether well-established or newly-founded – must pay close attention to food safety and hygiene standards, which helps ensure that what we eat is safe. Food standards save lives.”
There is no end in sight for the beautiful weather we have seen over the past few days, and temperatures are likely to rise into the mid-twenties by the end of next week.
Met Éireann has said that the high pressure will continue to dominate over the next seven days, bringing more pleasant sunshine and higher temperatures as the week goes on.
There will be more sunshine by Friday afternoon with highs of 17 to 20 degrees, touching 21 degrees in some inland spots.
It will remain dry and sunny over the weekend, with afternoon temperatures of 17 degrees.
But next week, it will gradually become warmer, with early forecasts showing 24 degrees by Friday.
Nighttime temperatures will also rise to around 10 degrees as the high pressure continues to build.
The Department of Agriculture issued a Condition Orange high fire warning due to the current dry spell which is set to last until Monday, May 29 at least.
It said a high fire risk exists in all areas where “hazardous fuels such as dead grasses and shrub fuels such as heather and gorse exist.”
A local TD has urged Minister Simon Harris to address precarious working conditions for PhD researchers and early academics in third level institutions.
Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell said that there is a huge problem in the sector with what are ‘essentially zero-hour contracts’.
Deputy Farrell said that talk about this state building a knowledge economy has not matched the reality on the ground.
She said that nowhere is this clearer than in the treatment of PhD researchers and early career academics.
This week in Leinster House, TDs heard about the shocking levels of precariousness faced by many in the sector.
They heard that one Teaching Fellow in Trinity College Dublin became homeless for a time because he had no income during the summer months.
“There is a huge problem in the sector with what are essentially zero hour contracts,” said the Sinn Féin TD.
“According to the Journal.ie there were 11,200 lecturers working these short-term temporary contracts.”
“It seems incredible in this day and age that we are still allowing these types of contracts.
“We know the negative impact they have on financial security with impacts on the ability to get a 12-month lease or applying for a mortgage.
“We know they impact social insurance contributions and often you cannot get sick leave or maternity leave.”
Deputy Farrell added that we know from a health perspective they can induce anxiety and mental health issues.
“But the good news is that we have the Future of Funding report which was produce last July,” she said.
“It was signed off by a joint Oireachtas committee made up of all parties. So there’s a clear consensus here, but we cannot allow this to become something akin to Slaintecare where everybody signs up and then little progress is made.
“The time has come for action. This state won’t be able to build a knowledge economy off the back of precarious labour.”
Clifden RNLI rescued two people on board a broken-down vessel near Inishturk South on Friday afternoon.
The volunteer crew was called to assist the vessel which was suffering mechanical failure about 10k kilometres offshore, west of Inishturk.
The crew launched Joyce King in beautiful sunny conditions, helmed by David Barry with crew James Mullen, Joseph Acton and Brian Ward. They were assisted in launching by Neil Gallery and John Brendan Mannion on shore.
The crew arrived to find the two people on board the vessel had anchored and did not require medical attention.
The stricken vessel was taken under tow back to a mooring in Clifden Bay, arriving without incident at 8.45pm.
Speaking about the shout, Clifden RNLI Helm David Barry said that with the good weather promised, they expect to see people enjoying water sports and boating activities around our coasts.
“We want everyone to enjoy the water and come home safely, please always remember to wear a life jacket when out on the water, always carry a mobile phone or VHF radio to call for help in an emergency,” he said.
“Boats should have an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) which is registered and regularly maintained. The volunteer crew at our station are on call 24/7.
“If you get into difficulty, or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”
Michael Brennan of Bearna, winner of The Galway Hospice Car Draw collecting his KIA Ceed from KIA Renmore on Tuesday. Pictured with Charlene Hurley, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Galway Hospice Foundation.
Michael Brennan (81) from Barna has driven away in a brand-new 2023 Kia Rio after being named as winner of this year’s Galway Hospice Car Raffle.
A long-time supporter of hospice care in both Ireland and the US, Michael received his keys from Charlene Hurley, Director of Fundraising & Communications at Galway Hospice, and Stephen Flaherty of Kia Renmore.
The second prize of a family holiday to France with Kelair Campotel, sponsored by Keller Travel Ballinasloe, went to Orla Corcoran from Ballybane, and the third prize, a dinner for two at The g Hotel, went to Rose O’Brien from Killimor.
The winner of the Seller’s Prize of €250 was announced as Cathy McGoldrick, Salthill, and the Early Bird Prize of a €150 Cosyhome Heating Voucher went to Ann Shaughnessy, Renmore.
“I am delighted to present Michael with the keys to his new car,” said Charlene Hurley.
“We would like to extend a thank you to everyone who purchased tickets for our annual Galway Hospice Car Raffle and for making this year’s raffle such a success.”
The Car Raffle Draw took place earlier this month at Galway Hospice.
Local children enjoying the occasion. Among those at the opening were Fergus Browne (3 and a half), Oisin (7), Laoise (4) and Eanna Curran (10). Photo: xposure
There were jubilant scenes in Galway city today as the iconic new Salmon Weir Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge was officially opened by Mayor of Galway Clodagh Higgins and Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan.
The new bridge, the first to span the Corrib in over 30 years, will serve as a focal point for locals and tourists to safely cross the river on foot or by bike.
It is in the shape of a salmon to reflect the heritage of fishing in the area and is approximately 85 metres in length.
Michael Gilligan from Abbeyknockmoy inspected the craftsmanship of the bridge. Photo: xposureLouise Browne, 2 and half years old, from Galway City was the first to walk bare foot across the bridge. Photo: xposure
The new pedestrian bridge is also lightweight and robust, and offers uninterrupted views of Galway Cathedral, the Convent of Mercy, the existing Salmon Weir Bridge and the watercourses below.
It is also fully accessible for people with impaired mobility, with ramps on either side.
Mercy primary pupil who are the school Council got to be among the first to traverse the bridge. Photo: xposure
Speaking about the opening, Brendan McGrath, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, said that the opening of the new pedestrian and cycle bridge is a ‘milestone’ in the delivery of the Galway Transport Strategy, an important link across the Corrib, and a fantastic new architectural and urban amenity space for the people of Galway.
Tom Langan and his Guide Dog Lady were among the first to cross the bridge a much safer option than the old Salmon Weir bridge. Photo: xposure
“More than 10,000 pedestrians cross the existing bridge on foot every day, interacting with buses, cars, trucks, and other vehicles,” said Mr McGrath.
“The new bridge offers a seamless alternative, removed from vehicles, with a spectacular view as well as a space to dwell and take in the sounds and atmosphere of the city.”
“I wish to congratulate the staff and contractors who delivered this impressive new bridge, which will be crossed by the people of Galway for generations to come.
“Galway City Council is grateful for the support of the National Transport Authority, and the European Commission, through European Regional Development Funding, facilitated by the Northern and Western Regional Assembly, for this project.”
Minister Eamonn Ryan said that he was delighted to be at the opening of this “quite historic and beautiful new bridge in the shape of a salmon across the majestic Corrib River, the fastest flowing city river in Europe.”
“The new bridge puts Galway alongside of some of the best-known cities in the world that are moving to make their centres better for people and nature by prioritising infrastructure that makes it easier for people to walk, cycle or just enjoy the sights and sounds of their surroundings,” he said.
“The bridge will be a huge asset to the city, linking West with East, the University with the bustling streets of the city, allowing locals, tourists and students to move safely without the risk of traffic.”
Mayor of the City of Galway, Councillor Clodagh Higgins, Minister Hildegarde Naughton (left) and Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan T.D., along with Senator Sean Kyne. Photo: xposure
Anne Graham, Chief Executive of the National Transport Authority, said: “The NTA is delighted to have supported the construction of the new Salmon Weir Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge through its Active Travel Programme.
“Along with being a major focal point for the people of Galway, the new bridge will enhance the travel experience of people who regularly walk, wheel or cycle in the city and, we hope, it will encourage more people to choose active travel for their everyday journeys.”
Brendan Mooney, Acting Assistant Director of the Northern and Western Regional Assembly, added: “The Northern and Western Regional Assembly, through our role as Managing Authority for the ERDF Operational Programme, are delighted to be part of this transformative project in the heart of Galway.
“The bridge provides a much-needed pedestrian and cycle link, and its beautiful design will be a legacy that we in the Assembly and the EU Commission will be very proud of.”
From left: Aisling Dunne, Clinical Nurse Specialist, GUH; Mary Quigley, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Stoma Care, GUH; and Aine Kennedy, Clinical Nurse Specialist, PUH.
The Stoma Care Unit at Galway University Hospitals is holding a free public information meeting in June for anyone who has had or is due to undergo stoma surgery.
The event will take place on 8 June in the Clayton Hotel, Galway from 5pm to 9pm with talks starting at 6pm to 7pm.
The event titled ‘A stoma in your life’ will focus on quality of life issues and looking towards positive influences on living with a stoma. Family members, friends and carers are also welcome to attend.
Clinical Nurse specialists from Galway University Hospitals and Portiuncula University Hospital will be in attendance and there will be talks on diet and nutrition, health and wellbeing and improving quality of life for people living with a stoma.
Stoma patients will also be on hand to share their individual experiences.
Mary Quigley, Clinical Nurse Specialist at University Hospital Galway said that during the evening, there will be informative talks, exhibit stands for new ostomy products, swimwear, underwear and support garments.
“There will be an opportunity for those attending to also speak to the clinical nurse specialists and meet other people who have a stoma,” she said.
“Refreshments will be served and there will be lots of spot prizes. I would encourage you to come along to our information evening; it’s open to everyone and it’s free.”
Galway band The Opacas are releasing their tenth single ‘Shine On’ with a live show at Monroe’s on Friday evening, 26 May.
The double A-Side release features a full studio production as well as a live version recorded in St Nicholas Collegiate Church earlier this year.
The song is a tribute to a work colleague who passed away unexpectedly, and features the talents of the Moycullen Musical Society who provided a choral element to the song.
The process of writing, recording, and performing ‘Shine On; was captured by Greta Thornton in a documentary which has been submitted to the Galway Film Fleadh. The song will be available on Spotify and all streaming platforms.
The gig, at 8pm in Monroe’s in Galway City, is a triple bill of local talent.
First up is Tomás Ó Cáinte who will be performing songs from his upcoming album Late To The Party. Tomás is the musical director of Moycullen Musical Society and the collaboration with The Opacas came about after attending one of their gigs in Salthill last year.
His song ‘Birdwatching’ is one of the highlights of the album and his performance is eagerly anticipated.
Also appearing will be the amazing, Galway based, three-part harmony vocal group, KaRoSal.
They sing both acapella and with guitar accompaniment. Their music mixes bluegrass, gospel, contemporary, and folk.
KaRoSal’s name is derived from their own names: Kara Donohoe, Róna O’Riordan and Sarah Toomey. Their debut EP, KaRoSal – Songs in 3 Part Harmony, is on Spotify and features ‘Tears of Stone’, a song written by Seán McGrath from Moycullen.
Construction work on the Residential Care Unit in Tuam is due to be completed by the end of June this year.
Joe Hoare, Assistant National Director, HSE Capital & Estates, said that the building contractor is expected to hand the facility over the to HSE for outfitting by the end of next month.
This was in response to a question submitted by Councillor Donagh Killilea for the meeting of the Regional Health Forum this week.
Cllr Killilea sought a progress report on the handover of facilities at the Old Grove Hospital and Residential Care Unit in Tuam.
The Grove was recently handed over to the HSE, ready for “equipping the facility and for staff familiarisation”, and plans are in the works to showcase the facilities to the public.
Breda Crehan-Roche, Chief Officer, Community Healthcare West said that they intend to arrange an Open Day for people to visit the new Joe and Helen O’Toole Community Nursing Unit and The Grove.
“The HSE will showcase the ‘state of the art’ buildings prior to both services becoming fully operational.”
“Community Healthcare West fully appreciates that it is important for the people of Tuam and the surrounding hinterlands have an opportunity to view the buildings/services.”
John ‘Shark’ Hanlon was forced to pull Hewick out of this year’s Grand National but he can make up for lost time as one to watch ahead of the 2024 renewal.
That’s according to a spokesman atgrandnational.org.uk who have run the rule over the likely field and given us four horses to look out for once the new jumps season really gets going.
The betting for the Grand National is often dominated by the best runners in the previous year’s race, and this year is no different, with Corach Rambler the early favourite to win back-to-back races at Aintree. The reality is that he’ll be saddled with far more weight next time round and so it can pay to look at the alternatives, starting with Hewick.
Hewick
As mentioned, Hanlon’s initial plan was to aim for the 2023 Grand National with Hewick, before they had to withdraw due to a fall at Cheltenham. Nevertheless, Hewick bounced back swiftly by recovering with a victory in late April.
With an impressive track record that includes notable triumphs in the Galway Plate, bet365 Gold Cup, and American Grand National, it’s highly likely that Hanlon will consider Hewick a strong contender worth considering for the 2024 National.
Fastorslow
In preparation for Aintree, the previous two Grand National victors, Corach Rambler and Noble Yeats, participated in the Ultima Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. Corach Rambler emerged victorious in both instances, but it was no easy feat, particularly in March’s race, where Fastorslow fell just a neck short.
This marked Fastorslow’s debut over a distance of three miles or more and the seven-year-old was consequently entered into the Punchestown Gold Cup the following month, where, despite being a 20/1 outsider in a field of five, Fastorslow triumphed over his more favoured competitors, including Gold Cup winner Galopin Des Champs.
With odds of 25/1, Fastorslow surely deserves consideration as a potential contender for the 2024 Grand National.
Kitty’s Light
After Lucinda Russell’s Corach Rambler secured a British victory in 2023, Ireland will undoubtedly be eager to reclaim the title in next year’s Grand National. However, they may encounter significant competition from Kitty’s Light.
Under the guidance of trainer Christian Williams, Kitty’s Light concluded the jumps season in exceptional fashion, triumphing in the Eider Chase and subsequently clinching victories in the Scottish National and bet365 Gold Cup. Notably, two of these races were run over a distance of four miles or more, leaving no doubts regarding Kitty’s Light’s stamina when he makes his inaugural appearance at Aintree.
Mahler Mission
The National Hunt Challenge Cup Chase in March served as an excellent precursor to Aintree this year. Gaillard Du Mesnil emerged victorious at Cheltenham, with Mister Coffey finishing in third place, before both horses performed admirably in the subsequent Grand National. However, Mahler Mission appeared poised for triumph at Cheltenham before an unfortunate fall in the latter stages of the race.
While Mahler Mission may possess limited experience in larger fields, there is still time to develop into a genuine contender for the Grand National in 2024.
The long awaited new Salmon Weir Pedestrian and Cycling Bridge is being officially opened today.
Construction work on the 80m bridge has been completed, with the final works involving reinstating the roads on either side for smooth access.
Newtownsmith and Gaol Road will be temporarily closed to traffic from 1pm to 3pm on Friday for the official opening ceremony.
The pedestrian bridge features three spans, roughly 10m, 55m and 15m in length respectively, across three waterways.
The bridge crosses Persse’s Distillery River (formally called Mill Race), the Lower River Corrib and Friar’s River (formerly called Waterside canal).
Plans for the new bridge have been in the works for years to ease pressure from the old Salmon Weir bridge, which is not suited to pedestrians and cyclists due to its narrow paths.
An Bord Pleanála first approved the plans for the bridge back in August 2021.
The City Council secured €3.5 million funding for the project from the European Regional Development Fund back in 2019, with matched funding from the National Transport Authority.
Planning permission has been granted to replace a mobile and broadband mast in Gort with a much larger one.
Vodafone Ireland has received the green light from An Bord Pleanála to take down the existing mast at the Eir Exchange site on Barrack Street, Gort.
The intend to replace the 15.1m high mast already there with a 30m lattice mast and associated ground based equipment.
The county council refused planning permission for the new mast in 2022, citing the visual impact from the increased height of the structure.
Their decision stated that “notwithstanding the fact that the site is already occupied by a telecommunications support structure”, this proposal would have a “significantly increased” detrimental visual impact on the area.
In their appeal against this decision, Vodafone Ireland said that the majority of Gort and the surrounding area currently only have ‘fair/fringe’ coverage, and that they need this larger mast to provide 4G & 5G services.
It also stated that the nearest other mast location available is 3km away, and not suitable, and that a telecoms tower at this location is already a visual feature in Gort.
Four public submissions were made regarding this appeal, raising concerns about the visual impact of the proposed lattice tower, stating that it would have a negative impact on the town centre and Gort River Walkway.
Planning permission for the mobile mast was granted by An Bord Pleanála with seven conditions attached.
Day One of the Tattersalls Irish Guineas Weekend serves as a vibrant aperitif to the rest of the meeting, with some excellent racing topped off by live music with Abbaesque.
The Novibet Emerald Mile is the biggest betting race on the card, with the one-mile handicap often providing punters with a tricky puzzle to unravel.
That point was perfectly highlighted last year, with the top Irish betting apps saved from making a big payout when 28/1 shot Celtic Crown won the race.
The Tattersalls Irish 2000 Guineas takes centre stage on the second day and will likely feature a head-to-head between trainers Aidan and Joseph O’Brien.
The former is eyeing a tilt at the big race with Frankel colt Hans Andersen, who recently won the Group 3 Ballylinch Stud ‘Red Rocks’ 2000 Guineas Trial Stakes at Leopardstown.
O’Brien suggested after the race the horse would be aimed at the Irish 2000 Guineas before a possible tilt at the French Derby next month.
While O’Brien snr generally grabs most of the headlines on the horse racing circuit, his son Joseph is also adept at winning big races in Ireland.
The horse is rated by the younger O’Brien as being on a par with some of the top horses he has ever trained, and he could be a live contender in the 2000.
The 1000 Guineas on the final day could provide another bumper payday for the O’Brien family, with Aidan’s Boogie Woogie fancied to run a big race.
The Dubawi filly was a superb winner of a Naas maiden during April, pulling clear in the final stages for an emphatic five-and-a-half length victory.
O’Brien may also be on target earlier in the day as Luxembourg bids to bounce back from a recent defeat on his season reappearance by winning the Tattersalls Gold Cup.
Galway County Council has granted planning permission for a new whiskey distillery, shop, café, tasting bar and heritage centre in Carna, Conamara.
Údarás na Gaeltachta had applied for planning permission on behalf of Drioglann Iarthar na Gaillimhe Teoranta.
The new facility will be located at Páirc Ghnó Charna, Roisín na Maithniach in Carna.
Údarás na Gaeltachta has welcomed the council’s decision and Chief Executive of Údarás na Gaeltachta, Tomás Ó Síocháin, said that this is good news for Iorras Aithneach and for Conamara.
“The new facility will greatly enhance the local area’s tourism appeal and that it will enable the team behind the distillery to develop an excellent product and a first-class visitor experience in the Iorras Aithneach area,” he said.
“This tourist attraction will also serve as a valuable asset for the local community.”
Cannabis worth €100,000 was discovered when Gardaí searched a car in the west of Ireland in the early hours of this morning.
At approximately 12:20am on Thursday morning, Gardaí stopped a vehicle in the Tobarteascain area of Ennis.
Approximately €100,000 of suspected cannabis was seized and an occupant of the vehicle, a man in his late 20s, was arrested.
During the course of a follow-up search of a residence in the area, a further €5000 of suspected cannabis was seized, along with a weighing scales and other drug paraphernalia.
The seized drugs (totalling €105,000) will now be sent to Forensic Science Ireland for analysis.
The arrested man is being detained at a Garda station in Clare under the provisions of Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996.
Rory Best arriving to a warm welcome in Galway. Photo: Andrew Downes Xposure.
Former Ireland, Lions and Ulster rugby legend Rory Best arrived into Galway weary but to a special City of the Tribes welcome last evening as he completed the penultimate leg of a 330km endurance challenge.
Best made this epic journey to raise funds for a therapeutic short break centre in Cong for children diagnosed with cancer and their families
Best arrived into Eyre Square shortly after 5pm but still smiling despite having stepped out 300km – in excess of 320,000 steps – over the last nine days to raise funds for the special centre.
The walk, which started last Tuesday at the Aviva Stadium, has taken one of Ireland’s most successful sporting leaders through counties Dublin, Kildare, Laois, Offaly, Tipperary, Limerick, Clare and now Galway.
Speaking as he arrived in Eyre Square last evening, Rory said, “I have great friends here in Galway over the years. It was always a tough place to go, not least in winter, but as I walked towards the Sportsground on the way in, I knew the welcome would be altogether different. We’ve been bowled over by the support for the walk.
“It’s been an amazing journey and my motivation to do it was simply down to getting to as many places as possible, walking past as many doors as possible to raise awareness of this incredible Daisy Lodge initiative.”
Photo: Andrew Downes Xposure.
“I’ve met so many incredible people along the way, including some incredibly inspirational young people with their own cancer stories and you are humbled in their company.”
“When you hit a hill along the way and are tired, all you need to do is think of them, their smiles, their courage and it just drives you on.”
Along the way Rory, who is an ambassador for Cancer Fund for Children charity that is developing the Cong facility, has been joined by families with children diagnosed with cancer as well as their friends and relatives.
He’s also been accompanied along the route by sports personalities, including former Irish colleagues and Gaelic football and hurling stars.
At the finish line it was the turn of Galway’s Shane Walsh – a brand ambassador of Arachas, sponsors of ‘Rory’s Miles 2 Mayo’ challenge – as he joined Best on the final yards into Eyre Square.
Best was met by Galway Mayor Cllr Clodagh Higgins and Cllr Eddie Hoare oin arriving in Eyre Square. Photo: Andrew Downes Xposure.
Best added, “I’ve been looking forward to coming to Galway for many reasons, including that the finish line is in sight but, principally, because I know the support that Galway will give to this cause.”
“It’s only up the road in Cong and Galway will most definitely get behind this so spread the word and please donate.”
Every week across Ireland, 10 children and young people (aged 0-24) are diagnosed with cancer.
Cancer Fund for Children understands the devastating impact a cancer diagnosis and its treatment can have on the whole family, and that beyond the essential medical care, many families need social and emotional support.
Funds raised through the Rory’s Miles 2 Mayo campaign will go towards the building of Daisy Lodge in Cong, Co. Mayo, a therapeutic short break centre for children impacted by cancer and their families.
Barry Moran, Regional Director for the West Region at Arachas, sponsors of the walk, said, “We’re delighted to welcome Rory here to Galway this evening and delighted that he was accompanied into the city by our other ambassador, Galway’s own Shane Walsh.”
“Rory is an amazing person and what he’s taken on here with this walk is truly inspirational,” Barry added.
“We place a big emphasis in Arachas on community Rory with this walk has brought together an amazing community of supporters and we really look forward to the day when the first guests of Daisy Lodge arrive and Rory and his incredible commitment will be very much foremost in our thoughts then.”
Nineteen badly neglected donkeys were found abandoned and in a deeply distressed state in Galway in a startling case of abuse.
In recent weeks Donkey Sanctuary Ireland has been working with other welfare organisations to provide care and new homes for the adult and young animals left abandoned.
One donkey was found dead on arrival at the location in Galway, while another four of those initially recued had to be euthanised on-site on health and welfare grounds.
This case is a significant moment, but not unexpected,” commented Laura Foster, Director at The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland.
In recent months the charity has been highlighting a deepening welfare crisis for donkeys in Ireland, which is putting a strain on their services.
“We have been talking publicly for some time about the unsustainable demand for our welfare services, which now far exceeds our capacity for sanctuary-based care.”
“Although we expect the Galway case to be the last time we are able to bring new donkeys into our care for the foreseeable future, we will be as busy as ever providing support, advice and rehoming services to donkeys across Ireland.”
Commenting on the prospects for future donkeys in need, Laura explained that prevention and legal deterrents are the only sustainable solution for all agencies involved in animal welfare.
“We will be increasing our education and support activities to reach as many donkeys as we can.”
“However, this work can only be effective alongside robust law enforcement, which is why our relationship with government veterinary inspectors, the Gardaí, and the ISPCA, is so important.”
“We must also tackle the donkey population issue through castration and effective end-of-life decision-making. Too often, we see suffering that could have been prevented or stopped much sooner.”
Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell has described the results of UCD Student’s Union’s (UCDSU) accommodation report as “shocking but unsurprising”.
The survey revealed the impact of the acute shortage in housing on students across Ireland, and the impact this is having on their mental health.
Students were surveyed over a two-year period, and the report found that a lack of affordable accommodation is having a significant negative impact on the educational experience.
It found that 71% of respondents had difficulties or extreme difficulties in meeting their monthly housing-related costs, with the same percentage finding the process of finding accommodation somewhat or very difficult.
Sinn Féin TD Mairéad Farrell said that this report “sets out in stark detail the terrible impact the housing crisis is having on students and how it’s lowering the entire student level experience.”
“For many students the reality is now that life outside of the classroom, the laboratory or the library is non-existent.”
She said that for those that are renting, the cost of just keeping a roof over their heads leaves “little other income to enjoy college life”.
The report set out that for those students that were renting, most were paying between €750 and 900 per month.
The report included some important recommendations, but Deputy Farrell said that with the next academic year just around the corner, the Minister is ‘fast running out of time’.
“We need proper regulation for digs type accommodation. Some respondents to the survey pointed out how they weren’t allowed to lock their bedroom door and hence didn’t have the most basic level of privacy and security. Others spoke of living in constant fear of eviction.
“One theme that comes through quite strongly from the survey results is the terrible impact this is having on the mental health of students.
“The government needs to make a serious effort in Budget 2024 to try and alleviate some of the pressure on students.”
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...
Uisce Eireann has issued a Boil Water Notice for more than 2,000 properties in Connemara resulting from issues cause Storm Bert.
The notice has been...
