A mother & son reunion turns tragic in Ros na Rún

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December 2, 2023

Galway Daily news Green light for new Leisure Centre in former Salthill Driving Range

Planning permission has been granted for a new leisure centre by converting a former driving range in Salthill.

Clearwater Ventures Ltd has been given the green light to create yoga and gym facilities, as well as a new café and retail area in the former driving range..

Other construction work will involve enclosing the driving range bays with windows and doors, and building an external sauna and decking.

Galway City Council refused planning permission for the proposed leisure centre in September of 2022.

The council said that the planned use would contravene the RA zoning of the site, which is “primarily for outdoor recreation”, and that the developer had not shown that the plans wouldn’t prejudice the objective of a greenway/cycle network in the development plan.

In the appeal, Clearwater said that the leisure centre was not a substantial change from its previous use, as the driving range was primarily based indoors, and that it would bring a vacant building back into use.

It also said that the proposed development would not result in an increase in traffic compared with the site’s previous usage.

An Bord Pleanála’s inspector recommended that planning permission be refused based on the RA zoning of the site, in line with Galway City Council’s decision.

“The use of this building as a standalone leisure and wellness facility with no functional relationship with any outdoor recreational use of the remainder of the lands zoned RA, which were last used, along with the building, as a golf driving range.”

“Accordingly, the use of the building now envisaged would neither be an outdoor recreational use, nor would it support such a use, and so it would materially contravene the RA zoning objective for the site.”

However, the board decided to overrule the inspector’s recommendation and grant permission for the development, subject to eight planning conditions.

The board said that, “The proposed and existing development to be retained would continue the nature of the existing and permitted development, in accordance with the zoning objective for the area.”

No changes are proposed for the car parking provision on site, but the developer intends to add 22 bicycle parking spaces.

University of Galway creating digital archive of letters from Irish expats c.1675 – 1950

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December 2, 2023

University of Galway creating digital archive of letters from Irish expats c.1675 - 1950

The University of Galway has received funding to create a digital archive of letters from Irish expats in America over three centuries.

Minister for the Gaeltacht, Patrick O’Donovan announced that he has approved a grant of up to €36,408 for the University’s IMIRCE project.

This funding will enable the development of an archival site which will provide the public with remote access to letters sent home to Ireland from America between 1675 and 1950 and more.

A collection of transcripts of c. 10,000 letters, gifted by Professor Kerby A. Miller to the university, will be a foundational collection for the initiative.

Besides these transcripts, the collections will also include biographies, autobiographies, recollections, and ephemera (songs, poems etc.) – material that will henceforth be available online as a result of the project.

Minister O’Donovan said, “This project is intended to strengthen the connection between people of Irish extraction in North America and Ireland and to foster more interest in the country, encouraging people to visit, especially our Gaeltacht areas.”

“At the same time, IMIRCE will be a unique platform for the University of Galway and the State as we endeavour to foster ties with the diaspora, including the Gaeltacht diaspora.”

“To that end, I am pleased, as Minister of State, that my Department is in a position to provide a grant to the University of Galway to assist with this meaningful work.”

IMIRCE will be a unique resource for anyone, from professional to amateur researchers interested in family history and genealogy, the social and cultural history of Ireland or North America, linguistics, and literature.

This grant was approved under the Language Support Schemes for organisations based outside of the Gaeltacht, with more information available here.

Reduced Price Older People’s membership for Leisureland Gym announced

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December 2, 2023

Reduced Price Older People's membership for Leisureland Gym announced

Dozens of older people in Galway City are in with a chance to win a massively reduced membership to Leisureland’s gym to help stay active.

Galway City Council is supporting the “Galway City Active Aged” pilot initiative as part of the Active Cities Galway programme.

The main element of the initiative will see 40 of our older and retired people receive a one-year membership to Leisureland, Salthill for just €24 (normally €299).

This gives access to the pool, gym, saunas, and classes for 12 months. Applications to avail of this scheme will be open from November 20th.

Everyone over 65 years of age resident in the City Council’s administrative area are eligible to enter the draw to be one of the 40 lucky membership winners.

Former Ireland soccer player Nora “Nono” McHugh whose brainchild this initiative is said, “I felt strongly that everyone deserves access to physical fitness and well-being regardless of their age or financial status.”

She contacted City Cllr Clodagh Higgins to help make this happen. Nora said that she hopes for the success of the pilot programme so that it might become an annual fixture.

Jason Craughwell of Galway Sports Partnership said, “This pilot gives the opportunity for people who may not consider joining a Leisureland to do so and benefit from the variety of physical activity opportunities the facility offers.”

“I would encourage those who may have mobility issues to enter the draw as LeisureLand caters for all abilities and has lots of adaptable equipment for all abilities.”

Ian Brennan, LeisureLand manager, said, “Leisureland is delighted to be involved in this positive initiative. The principle the Leisureland Board strive for is Access for all.”

“We hope to improve these people’s quality of life, both mentally and physically, by encouraging exercise and leisure facilities for everyone to enjoy.”

Cllr. Clodagh Higgins provided funding for this initiative through a budget allocation, working with Galway Sports Partnership and management at Leisureland to bring this initiative to life.

“This will really assist in encouraging Seniors to lead active lifestyles while promoting better health and well-being. This initiative will allow Seniors to exercise and stay active without the financial burden”.

Applications close at 5pm, December 8 2023 with the draw to take place on Monday, December 11.

Met Eireann issues Fog warning as motorists advised to exercise caution

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December 2, 2023

Galway Daily news Met Eireann issues Fog warning as motorists advised to exercise caution

Motorists are advised to be aware of dense freezing fog expected across much of the country this weekend.

Met Eireann has issued a status Yellow weather warning for fog to develop into Sunday afternoon.

The Fog Warning for all of Ireland is in effect this morning, and will remain in place until midday on Sunday.

“Dense fog forming in many areas, lingering through the day in some places. Patches of freezing fog too.”

This is expected to create poor visibility and hazardous driving conditions for motorists.

Another weather warning for ice and low temperatures is also in place today, with very cold day and nighttime temperatures forecast by Met Eireann.

This status Yellow weather warning will also be in place until 12pm on Sunday afternoon, with frost and ice persisting in many areas.

Further weather warnings are also likely into next week as an Arctic airflow brings consistently cold temperatures.

Coming Soon: 10 New Online Slots

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Thomas O'Brien

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December 2, 2023

If you are the kind of player who likes to be the first to try out the hottest new online slot machines from award-winning software providers as soon as the games are released, you’re in luck.

Here are 10 of the most hotly anticipated new slots from NetEnt, Red Tiger Gaming, Pragmatic Play, and others, which you will soon be able to enjoy playing in the free-play and real money modes at fully licensed and regulated South African iGaming sites like the official 10Bet online casino.

Top 10 new online slots coming soon to 10Bet

10Bet Games (aka 10Bet Casino) is regarded by many as the best online casino in South Africa. It has over 800 games from 10+ providers, including Evolution Gaming, Ezugi, Yggdrasil Gaming, Ggames, Spribe, Spinomenal, Red Tiger Gaming, Netgaming, Bitville, Pragmatic Play, and NetEnt.

Although we don’t yet have an official launch date, we do know that the following new online slots are coming soon from some of these market-leading software providers/game development studios are set to arrive in November/December 2023. They include the following eagerly awaited new slots:

Sugar Rush Xmas online slot from Pragmatic Play
Chase for Glory online slot from Pragmatic Play
Juiced: Duomax online slot from Yggdrasil Gaming
Excalibur Vs Gigablox online slot from Yggdrasil Gaming
Sidewinder: Doublemax online slot from Yggdrasil Gaming
Finn and the Candy Spin online slot from NetEnt
Elk Hunter online slot from NetEnt
Sugarlicious EveryWay online slot from Red Tiger Gaming
Astros online slot from Red Tiger Gaming
Sirens’ Riches online slot from Red Tiger Gaming

These new feature-rich slots have something to suit all types of slot players and will be available to play in the real money mode and free-play demo mode.

Are there any other new online slots to keep an eye out for?

Yes. Over the coming weeks, these same market-leading providers will also be releasing several other new slots. Wanted Wilds: Extreme, Steam Squad, and Giga Blast from Red Tiger Gaming are some of the most talked-about new slots coming soon from these same award-winning providers.

Yggdrasil Gaming will soon be releasing several new slots, such as Arctic Catch, King Arthur 10K Ways, Frozen Ages, Ragna Ravens Wild Energy, Mega Money Machine, Defenders of Mystica, Nice Catch 2: DoubleMax, and Rock Star Santa: MultiMax, to name just a few.

Pragmatic Play fans can also look forward to Candy Jar Clusters, Gates of Olympus 1000, John Hunter Nell ‘Antica, Floating Dragon New Year Festival, Sugar Rush Xmas, Gemine, 888 Bonanza, Dingo Dong Christmas Bells, 5 Frozen Charms Megaways, and Big Bass Christmas Bash, to name a few.

Is 10Bet a safe online casino?

10Bet is a trustworthy iGaming site for people living in South Africa. In fact, the South African men’s national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, chose 10Bet South Africa as their official betting partner sponsor, and South Africa’s Lamontville Golden Arrows has also chosen them as their official principal partner, with the 10Bet logo appearing on their kits.

The website is licensed locally in South Africa by MER – the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator. It’s owned and managed by a reputable name from the iGaming industry, and the secure website uses 128-bit SSL encryption software to protect your account.

When it comes to keeping your personal information, transactions, and preferred payment method details safe, 10Bet has you covered.

In other words, the 10Bet website is one of the safest options for South Africans who are looking to play computer-generated games and live dealer games or place sports bets from a smartphone, tablet, desktop computer, or laptop.

Is it easy to deposit at 10Bet?

Yes. Depositing at 10Bet is easy. If you live in South Africa, head to the cashier section, and you will see that they accept only the most reliable, user-friendly, secure, and convenient SA online payment methods.

For example, South African players can deposit from as little as R50.00 using various well-known payment solutions, such as Masterpass, EasyPay, Zapper, Blu Voucher, EFT, OZOW, American Express, Mastercard, Visa, OTT Voucher, Capitec Pay, and 1Voucher.

Final note

If you don’t want to miss out on the generous 10Bet welcome bonus, which includes 10 Free Spins for the Tut’s Twister slot from Yggdrasil Gaming, up to R3,000 in free bonus cash, and up to a R500 free sports bet, deposit R50 or more using any of these methods EXCEPT for 1Voucher.

It’s the only deposit method not included in the promotion. You must be at least 18 to register a 10Bet account, and the entire sign-up process takes less than a couple of minutes. When gambling with real money, remember to gamble responsibly and only spend money you can afford to lose.

Galway Active Retirement team takes 2nd place at National Bowls Competition

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December 1, 2023

galway daily news active retirement team — Members of the Turloughmore bowls team from Co Galway compete against Co Kerry’s Kenmare Dolphins in the Active Retirement Ireland National Bowls Competition large bowls plate final in Killarney on Thursday. Photo credit: Don MacMonagle

Members of the Turloughmore 1 Active Retirement bowls team have taken home one of the top prizes at the 2023 Active Retirement Ireland National Indoor Mats Bowling Competition in Kerry this week.

Turloughmore 1 team members Catherine Woods, John O’Donovan, Billy Woods and skip John Ridge were presented with the 2023 large bowls plate runners-up prize by Active Retirement Ireland National President Kevin Monaghan and Mayor of Killarney Cllr Brendan Cronin.

Over three days, 63 Active Retirement teams from across the country competed for the 2023 Active Retirement Ireland Cup in indoor mat bowls at the organisation’s 11^th annual flagship event.

Speaking at the awards presentation, Active Retirement Ireland CEO Maureen Kavanagh congratulated Turloughmore 1 on their ‘fantastic achievement’.

“The 252 bowlers who have competed for the cup this week, alongside our volunteers who helped deliver the event, confirm the drive and desire of older people to do things for themselves, maintain social connections and be a part of life,” she said.

“Social events like the National Bowls Competition, where older people can get together, be active and enjoy a little healthy competition and camaraderie, are vital for positive ageing.

“We are grateful for the generous support of our event host the Gleneagle for making this event possible for so many of our members and for their recognition of the contribution that older people make.”

Maureen Kavanagh said that older people don’t want things done for them, and that they want to be active in their own lives.

“It’s time the Government instituted and implemented a comprehensive, whole-of-government positive ageing framework in Ireland, including an adequate state pension benchmarked against average earnings, so that they can.”

Ukrainians living in Galway to join Phil Coulter on stage today

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December 1, 2023

galway daily news ukrainian choir with phil coulter — Photographed are members of the national Ukrainian choir with Jonas Krauklys on guitar, Phil Coulter, Yulia Boyko, choir director, Viktor Boyko on trumpet , Adeline O’Brien, CEO of Empower, Fingal’s local development company and Sergej Balan on accordian. Pic: Marc O'Sullivan

Galway members of the National Ukrainian Choir, brought together by the Irish Local Development Network, will join Phil Coulter for two songs on stage today, Friday, at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre.

Composed of over 30 Ukrainians who fled the war in their homeland, the choir will perform ‘Steal Away’ accompanied by Coulter on piano, and ‘Carol of the Bells’ accompanied by three trumpeters: Victor Boyko, husband of choir director Yulia Boyko, and their two sons Anton and Alex.

‘Carol of the Bells’ has its origins in the Ukrainian folksong ‘Shchedryk’. Alina Andriienko, Albina Nedostup and Viktoriia Yermolieva from Galway city, and Kateryna Samko, from Oughterard are all members of the choir who will be performing in Dublin on Friday night.

Coulter’s ‘Steal Away’ was recently translated into Ukrainian, recorded and released as a single by the National Ukrainian Choir in collaboration with the singer.

Originally written by the artist 40 years ago, it tells the story of a couple who escape from the Troubles, and this year’s fresh recording underlines the many parallels that exist with the current situation facing Ukrainians today.

Available for download via Spotify, the choir’s journey with Coulter also forms the basis for a special documentary, due to be released in 2024.

Commenting ahead of the concert, Phil Coulter said he is delighted to be able to perform ‘Steal Away’ with the choir again, this time on stage at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre.

“This is one of the most rewarding projects I’ve ever undertaken, and is much more than just a re-recording for me, it’s about reaching out to our Ukrainian communities across Ireland in a spirit of warmth, welcome and solidarity,” he said.

“It’s also a timely reminder to be grateful for what we have and, with all the challenges the world currently faces, to hold our loved ones even closer this year.

“Carol of the Bells’ has its origins in Ukrainian culture, and I’m really looking forward to performing it live on stage with the choir as we approach the Christmas season.”

‘Steal Away’ was translated into her native Ukrainian by choir director Yulia Boyko, who has been living in Co. Cavan for twenty years, where she runs her own music school.

Further information about the ‘Steal Away’ initiative is available online here. The single is available on Spotify and YouTube.

Further weather warnings expected as arctic airflow continues

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December 1, 2023

Galway Daily weather Met Eireann issues fresh weather warning for Galway

Met Éireann has said that further weather warnings are expected as the arctic airflow continues over the weekend and into the early days of next week.

Very cold nighttime and daytime temperatures are set to continue, bringing sharp to severe frosts and icy stretches on roads and footpaths.

Dense fog will form in places with patches of freezing fog, and some showers of hail and sleet are expected too, falling as snow on higher ground.

A status yellow warning comes into effect in Galway, remaining in place until midday on Sunday.

Road users are warned that there will be poor visibility and hazardous travelling conditions due to the freezing temperatures and dense fog.

Mack Hansen returns for Connacht v Leinster this weekend

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December 1, 2023

Galway Daily sport Mack Hansen ruled out of Six Nations 2024 due to surgery — Mack Hansen. Photo: INPHO

Mack Hansen is back in the field for Connacht this weekend as he makes his first appearance of the season for the province.

Hansen’s addition to the starting XV is one of seven changes made for Saturday’s interpro game against Leinster in the URC.

Connacht are back on their home turf at the Sportsground this week after returning from a mixed-performance two-game trip to South Africa.

“Leinster at The Sportsground is one of the marquee games you look forward to every season,” Head Coach Pete Wilkins said.

“You can feel the buzz of anticipation both among the squad and supporters, and with a sold-out crowd behind us it’ll be a fantastic occasion.”

There’s an all-new front row of Peter Dooley, Dave Heffernan and Jack Aungier, while Cian Prendergast comes back into the side at blindside flanker.

Making his 50th appearance is Oisin Dowling who moves to the second row to play alongside Darragh Murray, while Seamus Hurley-Langton and number 8 Sean Jansen complete the pack.

Scrum-half Caolin Blade captains the side while JJ Hanrahan is selected at out-half. Byron Ralston moves from the wing to outside centre where he’s partnered with Cathal Forde, while Hansen, Diarmuid Kilgallen and full-back Tiernan O’Halloran complete the back three.

There’s another 6:2 split on the bench, including Paul Boyle who could feature for the first time this season, and scrum-half Michael McDonald who will make his debut if called upon.

Wilkins said that they’re well aware of the threat from Leinster, but that Connacht have confidence in their own capabilities, and welcomed the boost from returning internationals.

“We’re very aware of Leinster’s strengths and the challenge they’ll pose, but we’re also confident in our abilities and the gameplan we’ve put together.”

“Mack’s return is a timely boost and it’s a 23 I think are well capable of a victory, while also taking into account the short turnaround into Champions Cup next Friday.”

With the stadium at maximum capacity for this sold-out game, only supporters with valid match tickets are asked to make their way to the ground.

Supporters have also been reminded to be respectful of local neighbours before and after the game.

CONNACHT RUGBY MATCHDAY 23 VS LEINSTER RUGBY
19:35, Saturday 2^nd December 2023 @ The Sportsground

Number/Name/Caps

15. Tiernan O’Halloran (227)
14. Mack Hansen (28)
13. Byron Ralston (21)
12. Cathal Forde (18)
11. Diarmuid Kilgallen (20)
10. JJ Hanrahan (5)
9. Caolin Blade (176)
1. Peter Dooley (23)
2. Dave Heffernan (183)
3. Jack Aungier (54)
4. Darragh Murray (13)
5. Oisin Dowling (49)
6. Cian Prendergast (52)
7. Shamus Hurley-Langton (25)
8. Seán Jansen (1)

16. Dylan Tierney-Martin (29)
17. Denis Buckley (233)
18. Finlay Bealham (191)
19. Niall Murray (61)
20. Paul Boyle (85)
21. Michael McDonald *
22. David Hawkshaw (18)
23. Conor Oliver (68)

Galway islands project wins National Age Friendly Award

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December 1, 2023

A community-based initiative hosted on Galway’s offshore communities has been named a winner at the National Age Friendly Awards 2023.

The National Age Friendly Awards 2023 took place on Thursday evening at the Clayton Whites Hotel in Co. Wexford.

The ‘Healthy Islands’ project picked up the Age Friendly Active & Healthy Ageing Award in recognition of its efforts to promote health and well-being, improve communication and enhance knowledge of available services amongst residents of The Aran Islands and Inisbofin.

The project featured free activities and resources for more than 200 participating residents to promote health and wellbeing across all the islands.

These have included pulse and blood pressure checks, healthy cooking demonstration workshops, a community fun run, yoga, relationship and sexual health education, citizen information advice, and exercise and fitness tips.

Cllr Liam Carroll, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council said, “This wonderful initiative is worthy of the national recognition it has received. It successfully broke through the barriers to services and information that islanders can face due to their remote location.”

“The collaborative approach to delivering the project is a template for future similar projects that seek to ensure everyone can enjoy good physical and mental health, and where wellbeing is valued and supported at every level of society.”

The initiative, which rolled out in April, was coordinated by Healthy Galway County under Galway Rural Development’s Social Inclusion Community Activation Programme (SICAP).

It was supported by a wide range of organisations including Galway Rural Development, Galway Sports Partnership, Comharchumann Forbartha Arann Teo Inis Mór, Comhlacht Forbartha Inis Meáin, Inishbofin Development Company CL and Comhar Caomhán Teoranta Inis Oírr.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council praised the various community and economic development groups on the islands for playing a vital role in the success of the project which, he said, presented a suitable template for similar initiatives in the future.

“Galway County Council is delighted to have supported Healthy Islands and congratulates everyone involved in achieving this award success,” he added.

Mary Cronin of Galway County Older People’s Council praised the project’s community-centred focus.

“Healthy Islands was predominantly aimed at the older population, but it also proved beneficial to other age groups, particularly those looking after a parent or relation, as it has helped them to better cater for the people they are linking in with and sharing the services and information.”

Almost €15 million in big Euromillions prizes won in Galway over two decades

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December 1, 2023

Galway Daily news Prize Bonds draw nets €50,000 for lucky Galway individual

Almost €15 million in big prizes have been won by Euromillions players in Galway over the past two decades.

Since the launch of the Euromillions game in 2004 there have been 32 wins in Galway for prizes worth more than €100,000, including four lucky millionaires.

Research from the National Lottery has revealed that Dublin (20), Cork (6) and Waterford (5) are top of the table for the most EuroMillions millionaires in Ireland since the game was launched.

Online players come in second in the official millionaire table with a total of 10 millionaires made online in Ireland.

This research comes ahead of Friday night’s special EuroMillions draw which has a guaranteed jackpot of €200 million.

Since the EuroMillions game launched in Ireland in 2004, there have been 17 Irish EuroMillions jackpot winners.

If Friday’s staggering €200 million jackpot is won in Ireland, it will become the biggest ever lottery prize ever in Ireland, surpassing the €175.4 million EuroMillions jackpot won in the Naul in Dublin in 2019.

Ahead of the special draw, the National Lottery has released research outlining every single prize of €100,000 and above won in Ireland since the game was launched in 2004.

In almost 20 years, the EuroMillions game has created an incredible 66 millionaires throughout the country and has paid out in excess of €1.2 BILLION in those life-changing prizes from €100,000 and above.

Speaking ahead of Friday’s special guaranteed €200 million draw, a spokesperson for the National Lottery said, “The EuroMillions game has always been an exciting proposition for our players with the truly life-changing prizes on offer for each and every draw.”

“Over the years, we have seen some iconic moments such as the €115 million won by Limerick’s Dolores McNamara and the group of 22 Dublin Bus drivers who shared over €23 million between them.”

“While these big jackpot wins will grab all of the headlines, this research just scratches the surface of the hundreds of other life-changing prizes won by players right throughout the country since the game’s inception in 2004.”

University of Galway unveils President’s Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

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December 1, 2023

Galway Daily news University of Galway unveils President's Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

University of Galway President, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh has launched the newly introduced President’s Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship that recognises and celebrates the achievements of their students.

It was officially launched as he formally opened the IdeasLab Space on campus, marking the institution’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among its student body.

IdeasLab is University of Galway’s student innovation hub. It is an open collaborative space designed to enable students to explore ideas and personalise their entrepreneurial and innovative skills to succeed in the complex world beyond university.

The award features three tiers of achievement, namely Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Students who complete one IdeasLab programme during their degree are eligible for the Bronze tier, while those who successfully complete two programmes earn the Silver tier.

The highest honour, the Gold tier, is reserved for students who undertake more than two programmes or complete IdeasLab’s summer incubator programme ‘Start100’.

The President’s Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship has been designed to acknowledge the pivotal role that student-driven innovation and entrepreneurship play in shaping Ireland’s future.

By providing a structured framework for developing these skills, the University aims to enhance the overall student experience and prepare its graduates for industry.

“We believe that students who develop innovative thinking and entrepreneurial skills play a crucial role in enriching their communities, advancing knowledge, and building a good society,” said Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh.

“The President’s Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship reflects our commitment to cultivating our students’ capacities to become agents and architects of positive change.”

He added that the award aligns with the university’s values and commitment to investing in positive change to society at home and internationally.

The formal opening of the IdeasLab Space symbolises the University’s dedication to creating an environment that nurtures creativity, collaboration, and transformative ideas.

This space is a vibrant hub where students can bring their innovative concepts to life, collaborate with like-minded peers, and receive mentorship from industry experts.

Natalie Walsh, Director of Entrepreneurial Development said, “Today is a milestone moment for innovation in our university as we formally launch our student innovation space IdeasLab and our new President’s Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.”

“The space and new awards programme demonstrate our commitment to empowering students as catalysts for positive change and equip them with the skills and competences to succeed in their futures”.

Living in the background – Connemara man celebrates extraordinary career as TV Extra

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December 1, 2023

Living in the background - Connemara man celebrates extraordinary career as TV Extra

Connemara man Patrick Keeney has spent much of his life in the background shot of our favourite stories, and is celebrating 21 years as an Extra.

Originally from the Dunkineely, Ardara area of South Donegal, Patrick Keeney is now retired in Ballyconneely where he works as an extra for the Spiddal-based TG4 each year, and travels to other sets around the country.

Since retiring from Retail management in the UK, Patrick has been a TV and Movie Extra with many Irish productions.

As well as working with Ros na Rún, he has also worked on the Irish TV shows Obituary and Normal People. His most recent movie was Liam Neeson’s Irish Film, In the Land of Saints and Sinners which was filmed in Donegal last year.

Patrick started out life in Ardara as a Guilder, he was forced to emigrate to London where he forged a successful career in Retail Management, which ultimately led him to the small screen.

One of the places where he worked was based close to the Thames TV and Channell 4 studios and from here Patrick got his taste for being an extra.

Advertising agents would include him in the background of consumer TV commercials and he enjoyed being part of it. Little by little he featured more and more in commercial advertising. This led him to signing with an agent, and in 2002 he retired from Retail Management pursuing his growing interest in TV Extra work.

He went on to feature as an Extra in the hit TV series EastEnders, Holby City, The Bill and he also spent 7 weeks working with Sir Tom Courtney on a movie set. He also featured as an Extra in the Bloody Sunday Movie.

In 2000 he retired from Retail Management working full-time as a TV Extra before retiring to Ireland at 50 with his wife and together they’ve made Ballyconneely and Connemara their home.

“We weren’t too long at home in Ballyconneely, when a neighbour told me about the TG4 drama series Ros na Rún and the possible opportunity of being an extra. I made contact and the rest is history.”

“I’m either a watcher, a Taxi driver or a Courier and on occasion, I’ve been a Postman too but that’s before Seán Misteál who plays the well-known character David in Ros na Rún was cast as the local postman.”

Patrick added that, “I enjoy it thoroughly, there’s a wonderful team here from actors to crew and it’s one big happy family, I really do love it”.

Now a professional TV and Film Extra, when Ros na Rún finishes filming every February, Patrick takes himself to other TV or Film sets all over Ireland and he’s well-recognised and established in the industry for his professionalism.

“I guess I learnt the trade well in London and it was a nice sideline job to my retail management position and at the time, they somewhat complimented each other,” Patrick says.

“I feel very lucky to have worked with some of Ireland’s, the UK’s and the World’s greatest actors as well as Film and TV Directors. It’s the perfect job for anyone who’s retired”.

Patrick has also been a volunteer radio presenter with Connemara Community Radio, has a huge interest in country music, and has been part of a two-piece band for several years too.

Met Éireann issues another weather warning for Galway

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November 30, 2023

Galway Daily weather Cold weekend ahead, with temperatures approaching zero

Another Met Éireann warning for low temperatures and icy conditions has been issued for Galway for Friday night.

Cold conditions could lead to hazardous conditions on roads and paths, and there could also be travel disruption.

The warning will come into effect at 5pm on Friday evening, and will remain in place until midday on Saturday.

All counties in the Republic are affected by Friday’s warning.

Meanwhile, status yellow warnings issued by Met Éireanna and the Met Office are in place tonight in Galway and 28 other counties.

“Shocking” that 14 counties have no provider of student leap cards says Farrell

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November 30, 2023

galway daily mairead farrell td sinn fein nurses midwives pay

Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell has said it is “shocking” that only 53% of counties have a provider of student leap cards.

Through information received from a parliamentary question, it was revealed that over half of the counties in the State had no provider of student leap cards.

For the counties that did, this was generally provided through a student union or, in some cases, a private agent.

Deputy Farrell stated that at times when students are having to commute longer and longer distances, the fact a significant number have to travel to another country just to receive this card seems ridiculous.

“There is a serious lack of coverage when it comes to the provision of these cards,” the Sinn Féin TD said.

“There are multiple counties in every province where the card cannot be printed off at all. Students in counties outside of Dublin are being told to travel there just to pick up there card.

“Counties with no provider at all include: Cavan, Clare, Kilkenny, Laois, Leitrim, Longford, Mayo, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Tipperary, Wexford and Wicklow.”

Deputy Farrell said that the fact that in some of these counties there is already a third level institution which could offer the service, or multiple post offices which could presumably do the same.

“The problem is for this government that students are often an afterthought. This is something that could be fixed fairly quickly it the Minister had a mind to.

“There’s no shortage of providers in large urban centres like Dublin, but for rural Ireland it’s a very different story.”

She said that all of this leaves a very bitter taste in the mouth of young people.

“So when graduation day finally comes, they feel like this government and its predecessors have shown them to the door. Decades ago, the saying was ‘get the boat’. Today it seems to be a case of ‘book a flight’.”

Portiuncula Hospital treating patients ‘very sick with RSV’

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November 30, 2023

Portiuncula University Hospital is currently treating patients, including infants, who are very sick with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

The hospital has asked the public to not visit patients if they are feeling unwell.

RSV is a highly contagious respiratory disease and is the main cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in very young children.

Bronchiolitis may lead to breathing and feeding difficulties and can result in hospitalisation.

RSV can also be serious and life-threatening for older adults, individuals with weak immune systems, and children who are premature or have chronic heart and lung disease.

James Keane, Hospital Manager at Portiuncula University Hospital, asked the public to be mindful of the safety of vulnerable patients and to not visit the hospital if they have a cough, cold, temperature, runny nose or sneezing.

“Limited visiting is in place in the Maternity Ward to protect our newborns and younger babies who are at particular risk from RSV. Children should not visit the Maternity Ward,” he said.

Anyone with symptoms of RSV is advised to stay away from others if you feel unwell, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, bin used tissues and wash your hands after and regularly throughout the day.

Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan dies aged 65

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November 30, 2023

galway daily news shane mcgowan dies — Shane McGowan

The Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan has died at the age of 65 following a long illness.

He died peacefully at 3am this morning, with his wife Victoria Mary Clarke and other family members by his side.

A statement from Victoria, Shane’s sister Siobhan and his father Maurice, stated that prayers and last rites were given, which gave comfort to the family.

The Irish music legend spent much of his childhood with his mother’s family in Co Tipperary, where he was surrounded by folk and traditional music.

Shane MacGowan became part of the punk scene in London in the 1970s and formed the band The Nipple Erectors, also known as the Nips.

Some years later he formed Pogue Mahone, which later became the Pogues, with Jem Finer and Spider Stacey.

The band adopted a mix of punk and Irish trad and folk, and brought Irish music to a new generation across the world.

His 60th birthday was marked with an event in Dublin in 2018, with performers including Sinéad O’Connor, Nick Cave and Glen Hansard all paying tribute. President Michael D. Higgins presented him with a lifetime achievement award.

Shane MacGowan married his long-time partner Victoria Mary Clarke in 2018 in Copenhagen.

Two Galway artists selected for residency in France promoting Beckett

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November 30, 2023

galway daily news artists selected for samuel beckett residency in france — Claire-Louise Bennett (photo - Mark Walsh) and Petal Pilley (photo- Simon Boyle)

Two Co. Galway artists have been awarded bursaries for a three-week international residency at Atelier Samuel Beckett in France next year.

Petal Pilley, artistic director of Blue Teapot Theatre, and writer Claire-Louise Bennett, were selected to join the new international artists’ residency in the village of Méricourt, an hour northwest of Paris on the River Seine.

The mission of the residency is to promote and highlight the artistic legacy of Samuel Beckett across all art forms.

The two artists will spend three weeks living at Atelier Samuel Beckett, working in an environment that supports and values artistic ambition, exchange, and self-directed work.

The residency offers artists a place to reflect, develop, research and study while accessing Beckett’s writing with mentorship from Gare St Lazare Ireland’s artistic directors and founders of Atelier Samuel Beckett, director Judy Hegarty Lovett and actor Conor Lovett.

The primary goal of the residency is for the resident artist to develop their own practice, with no obligation to deliver any outcomes.

Judy and Conor Lovett founded Atelier Samuel Beckett as an opportunity for artists to deepen their engagement with Beckett’s work in the hope that he will influence new works in all areas of the arts.

“In our staging of Beckett’s prose works we’ve collaborated with performers, composers, musicians, videographers and visual artists,” said Conor.

“We’ve seen how Beckett’s work inspires and how artists are enriched by it.”

Judy said this residency was born out of a combination of their experience and the support of philanthropic donors.

“We hope that new funders will support bursaries and we’re thrilled that Galway Culture Company and University of Galway are leading the way.”

The bursaries are supported by Galway Culture Company in association with Atelier Samuel Beckett and the Cork theatre company, Gare St Lazare Ireland, and by the School of English and Creative Arts and the James Hardiman LIbrary, University of Galway.

The selected artists will receive awards valued at €6,000 that include a stipend to each artist of €1,500, self-catering accommodation, travel expenses and Gare St Lazare mentoring.

University of Galway will also provide access to its theatre archives and rehearsal studios.

Petal Pilley has a lifetime of experience in theatre, having grown up in a travelling theatre company touring extensively throughout Europe.

She is the Artistic Director of Blue Teapot Theatre Company, a bold, diverse, Irish company working with artists with intellectual disabilities.

Petal developed Ireland’s first QQI accredited Performing Arts School for people with intellectual disabilities.

Claire-Louise Bennett is the author of Pond (2015) and Checkout 19 (2022). Her stories and essays have appeared in a range of publications including The New Yorker, The London Review of Books, Frieze, and Harper’s Magazine.

She was awarded a Samuel Beckett Creative Fellowship for 2022-2023 at the University of Reading.

13% increase in average rents for new tenancies in Galway City

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November 30, 2023