Galway RNLI volunteer crew presented with long service awards

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September 26, 2023

galway daily news john behan sculpture at kennys gallery — John Behan, Famine Ship, Bronze, 18x18x10in

Across the Bitter Sea is a collection of new works in bronze by renowned sculptor John Behan, opening at The Kenny Gallery in Liosbán this Saturday, September 30.

The exhibition includes striking new versions of Behan’s iconic famine ship and features explorations of Ukrainian migrant themes.

While it is primarily a continuation of his important ‘migrants’ work, classic Behans will also be exhibited in the form of flights of birds and bulls.

The artist has recently featured in a major film documentary biography by Donald Taylor Black, which was shown at this year’s Galway Film Fleadh. 2023 also sees the celebration of Behan’s exhibiting at Kennys for 50 years.

Poet John. F Deane will launch Across the Bitter Sea at 2.30pm on Saturday, September 30 at The Kenny Gallery, and all are welcome along.

The exhibition runs until October 24 from Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm, and online at www.thekennygallery.ie. All of the pieces are for sale and any enquiries can be sent to Dean at art@kennys.ie.

Canney demands govt action to overhaul school transport scheme

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September 26, 2023

galway daily news Poll shows one third of commuters in the West would use public transport if it was more affordable

Galway East TD Seán Canney and his colleagues in the Regional Group have published a motion calling on the Government to address the problems facing the school transport scheme.

Their Dáil motion highlights the critical role of the school transport scheme in the lives of families and children and calls for immediate and comprehensive reform.

The group notes that the school transport scheme is recognised as an indispensable service for families and children across the country, pivotal for more than 149,000 children.

The TDs note the lack of access to public transport in rural areas and, therefore, the need for a fit-for-purpose school transport scheme for all students requiring transport to their nearest school, irrespective of distance.

“Our motion highlights the inadequacy of the current scheme to meet these objectives,” said Deputy Canney.

“They state there is an imperative need to reduce car journeys for environmental reasons and promote bus travel for school commutes. Still, there are continuing disruptions due to the non-availability of buses and poor compensation to private operators.”

The Regional Group of TDs are calling upon the Government to take immediate action by ensuring that families issued with concessionary tickets in the past continue to benefit from the service.

They want to see previous commitments fulfilled regarding the provision of school transport services in the event of school closures.

As well as theat, they are asking for adequate funding in the 2024 Budget and the release of the school transport scheme review without delay.

“In our motion, the Regional Group of TDs note that the Government needs to address these urgent matters and ensure the school transport scheme remains a dependable and eco-friendly means of transportation for all students,” added Deputy Canney.

Dr.Online: A Health Response Without Waiting in Line

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Angela Mc Bride

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September 26, 2023

Telemedicine: Meeting Patient Needs and Relieving Healthcare Challenges.

The healthcare landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with telemedicine emerging as a crucial alternative that meets patients’ immediate healthcare needs while playing a vital role in alleviating the strain on the overstressed healthcare system. Online consultations are changing the way healthcare is accessed in Ireland, with a particular focus on online family doctor consultations available for both adults and children. In Ireland, a pioneering platform is making strides – Dr.Online.

Telemedicine: Meeting Current Healthcare Needs

In some parts of Ireland, the healthcare system has faced enormous challenges. The demands on the healthcare system are real and intensify as we approach the challenging winter season. It was in such a context, in the midst of a pandemic, that the innovative service Dr.Online emerged in 2020 in response to the emerging needs of the healthcare sector and has since expanded its services to continue providing the answers that the population needs.

José Lima, CEO of Dr.Online, highlights the importance of the platform, stating: “Telemedicine is no longer a vision for the future; it is a reality that is reshaping how we access healthcare. Our platform provides immediate medical assistance, enabling patients to connect quickly with licensed and qualified doctors, all registered in IMC.”

Online GP Consultations: Meeting the Needs of Adults and Children

At the heart of this telemedicine service revolution are online family doctor consultations, available for adults and children. These consultations offer numerous advantages that are revolutionizing how patients receive healthcare:

Immediate Accessibility
One of the primary advantages is that patients can quickly contact licensed family doctors, ensuring their healthcare needs are promptly met.

Comfort and Safety

Online consultations are a solution for those who had difficulty with mobility or transportation or for those living in more remote areas. It also protects vulnerable individuals from unnecessary exposure to long wait times in hospital or clinic waiting rooms.

Privacy:

Telemedicine breaks an important barrier today, preventing some people from receiving necessary care due to concerns about exposure during in-person visits.

Efficient Triage:
In addition to providing immediate care, online family doctor consultations play a crucial role in triaging healthcare cases. By addressing less complex health concerns online, these consultations ease the strain on in-person healthcare facilities, allowing healthcare professionals to focus their expertise where it is most needed.

José Lima emphasizes the importance of these online family doctor consultations, stating: “Our goal is to ensure that no one is left without access to timely medical care, especially children.”

Meet Sean: A Father Who Turned to Telemedicine as His Child Returned to School

Sean’s young son developed a fever recently, shortly after returning to school. Worried about his child’s health, he decided to try Dr.Online‘s services. Within minutes, he connected with a licensed family doctor who provided immediate guidance on managing his son’s fever. Sean recalls, “It was a relief to speak with a doctor so quickly. They advised us on how to monitor our son’s condition and when to seek further medical attention. Avoiding the need to sit in a waiting room filled with other kids, especially during flu season, this service was a significant advantage.”

Beyond GPs: Specialties, Mental Health, and Prescriptions

Dr.Online‘s commitment to accessible healthcare goes beyond GP’s consultations. The platform provides access to specialists in various medical fields, enriching its comprehensive healthcare coverage. It recently expanded its services to include online prescription services, available on the same day.

Since its establishment in 2020, the company has processed over 60,000 bookings for GP’s, specialties, and mental health consultations. This highlights the platform’s dedication to meeting diverse healthcare needs. Moreover, the cost of consultations on the company’s platform starts at €39, but there are more affordable services such as online treatment prescriptions, which cost only €25. This pricing flexibility ensures that healthcare remains accessible to a wide range of individuals. But it is the growing emphasis on mental healthcare that sets this telemedicine service apart from its competitors. The platform collaborates with various therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists to address various mental health issues.

José Lima emphasizes: “Our platform is driven by our commitment to making healthcare accessible to all. We actively listen to our patients, continuously improving our services based on their experiences and evolving needs.”

Aoife’s Journey: Overcoming a UTI with the help of an online GP

Aoife, a young woman in her twenties living in Limerick, recently experienced a urinary tract infection (UTI) and turned to telemedicine for assistance. She describes her experience, saying, “Dealing with a UTI can be uncomfortable and distressing. Dr.Online‘s online consultation allowed me to discuss my symptoms with a doctor who promptly prescribed the necessary medication. It saved me time and the hassle of scheduling an in-person appointment. I felt relieved knowing that I could access healthcare from the comfort of my home.

Reshaping Healthcare: The Telemedicine Contribution

The rapid adoption of telemedicine in Ireland has only confirmed José Lima’s conviction that “society is changing at a rapid pace, and people are increasingly looking at technology as an ally and facilitator of services. Telemedicine is gaining solid ground because, after the first experience, patients realize the practical advantages.

The platform’s success story aligns with the evolution of healthcare, where telemedicine is not just a trend but a necessity. Dr.Online has become an essential player in the effort to enhance healthcare accessibility and efficiency in the country.

José Lima reflects on this trend, stating: “We do not intend to replace the traditional healthcare system or in-person consultations; we want to be a complementary alternative and ally of the healthcare system and patients.”

As telemedicine continues to gain momentum, online family doctor consultations for adults and children serve as a shining example of how technology can transform healthcare access, providing accessible, convenient, and immediate solutions for all.

Need a doctor?
Visit www.dronline.ie and book your consultation.

Aontú candidates announced at public meeting in Galway

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September 26, 2023

galway daily news aontú candidates in galway with peadar toibín — Padraig Lenihan, Peadar Tóibín TD and Luke Silke

Two Aontú candidates have been announced for the upcoming local elections at a public meeting in Galway by party leader Peadar Tóibín TD.

Padraig Lenihan, a retired army captain lecturing history in University Galway, will contest the election in the Galway City Central Ward, while 25-year-old Luke Silke, a published author who is currently working as Parliamentary Assistant to Deputy Tóibín, will contest the election in the Tuam LEA.

Mr Silke told those present at the meeting that there was a lot of anger in rural areas.

“Particularly in rural Ireland, a lot of people are unhappy with the current government. They feel neglected by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael and they feel attacked by the Greens,” he said.

“The rising costs of farm fertiliser, the cost of fuel, the attempts to stop us burning turf, coupled with the disaster in housing and health is causing awful hardships down here.

“I would say that a third of my voter base is now in Australia, and they’re not coming back. Every house down our way has a family member who in recent years turned left in Claregalway. It’s utterly heartbreaking.”

Silke said that farmers are being completely neglected, and that late night tears and arguments between couples about mounting debt are now the norm for many farming families around Galway.

“We have ten people a day leaving UHG and Portiuncula hospitals without being seen, because they get up and walk out of the A&E due to lengthy wait,” he said.

“On housing, I don’t think I know of anyone my age who hasn’t concluded at this stage that they will never own their own house. I want to see a return to the old system where the council build a house for you on your own land and then rent it back to you.”

Silke concluded by saying: “I’m young, I’m new to politics, but I intend to bring a level of common sense and cop on to the table. We need to elect politicians who aren’t afraid of concrete.”

The Future of Casino Entertainment: Virtual Reality and Beyond

By

Angela Mc Bride

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September 26, 2023

The first thing that comes to your mind when you hear casinos is “betting,” “money,” “stake,” and other gambling-related terms. Well, your perspective about casinos is going to change as you read this article. Casinos are much more than just a platform where you can stake money on events and games to win money. They have and will always be a hub for entertainment, with their wide variety of unending table games and slot machines.

However, with the incorporation and advancement of technology in the gambling industry, the future of casino entertainment is set to experience a big change. Various innovations are being incorporated into slot sites to make gambling experience more entertaining. For example, virtual reality, a recent tech innovation, is one of the biggest things in the gambling industry. Virtual reality and other major innovations are set to transform the way we gamble.

Continue reading to find out more about what the future holds for casino entertainment and the effects of technology in the gambling industry.

Virtual Reality

Virtual Reality (VR) is one of the biggest innovations in the casino world. It is a computer-generated world where players get to experience various scenes and objects that appear to be real. It is an immersing process that involves wearing a headset which allows you to hear things in the virtual world. It displays 3D images that make you feel like you are in the real world.

The introduction of virtual reality to the casino world has transformed the mode of development of casinos and increased the number of people who spend time playing games on casino sites. Aside from the casino world, virtual reality is also used in several industries, such as healthcare, gaming, and finance. Virtual Reality is one of the most sought-after innovations in the gambling industry because it offers you a realistic betting experience from your home.

VR creates a world where you can interact with other players and dealers in real-time. With this technology, you can explore the gambling platform, explore different slots, and even get a bottle of beer at the bar. Unlike traditional casinos, they offer a wider variety of games because they have the ability to develop games without the restrictions of physical space.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is another technology that has contributed greatly to creating a better future for the gambling industry. It is commonly used to analyse large amounts of information and give insights into a user’s preference and behaviour. It allows you to easily find games that suit your taste without spending hours searching. Other uses of AI include:

AI can also be used to improve the security of gambling sites. It helps identify fraudulent activities.
It can be used to analyse live video footage.
AI helps create customised promotions and offers for users.

Augmented Reality

Augmented Reality is another technology that has contributed significantly to ensuring a promising future for casinos. It involves transferring digital data to the real world, and then developing an engaging experience that is the same for both physical and virtual worlds.

Augmented reality improves casino experience by offering real-time statistics and data. An AR headset will display the odds of winning on a certain slot machine or provide data about the history of a particular game. For example, if you are always playing blackjack, an augmented reality headset can recommend other similar games.

Final thoughts

The future of casinos depends greatly on technology. Artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality all offer specific and significant benefits that provide an entertaining gambling experience. As these technologies continue to advance, you can expect a more personalised, entertaining, and immersive casino world.

Galway employees enocouraged to take part in remote work survey

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September 26, 2023

galway daily news laptop working from home remote working sun freedom

Researchers from the University of Galway and the Western Development Commission are calling on employees to share their experiences regarding remote and hybrid work by participating in the annual National Remote Working Survey.

This is the fourth annual survey and will build on valuable insights gained from the previous three surveys.

The 2023 survey will offer a comprehensive view of how remote and hybrid work is shaping work experiences and employment dynamics in Ireland.

The survey is led by Professor Alma McCarthy, Dr Meave O’Sullivan, Professor Eoin Whelan and Dr Luke McGrath at University of Galway, alongside Allan Mulrooney and Deirdre Frost at the Western Development Commission.

University of Galway’s Professor Alma McCarthy emphasised the significant impact of previous surveys on policy-making.

“Our previous annual surveys have played a crucial role in shaping the national remote working strategy,” said Prof McCarthy.

“The way we work has undergone a dramatic transformation since the Covid-19 pandemic. It is opportune to document the trends, preferences, and the impact on employment three years on.”

Allan Mulrooney, Chief Executive of the Western Development Commission, highlighted the enduring popularity of remote work following Covid-19.

“Remote working has proven highly attractive to both employees and employers post-pandemic with an impact on relocation and regional development. While some have returned to the office, many continue to work remotely either full or part-time.

“This survey examines the experiences of remote workers at this juncture. The development of the National Hub Network, Connected Hubs, which now numbers over 300 hubs, underscores the sustained demand for remote and hybrid work solutions, as well as suitable work facilities close to home.”

After analysing the findings from the 2023 National Remote Working Survey, the team will publish the results on the University of Galway and the Western Development Commission websites at the end of October this year.

The survey, which is open until Monday, October 2, is available at https://bit.ly/RemoteWorkSurvey4

The Psychology of Bonus Rounds: How Slot Game Features Affect Player Engagement

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September 26, 2023

Slot machines are a great way to spend your free time and potentially make a little bit of extra cash on the side. Slot machines have come a long way since the Liberty Bell was made in the 1890s. You can find the best slots for real money here. but how do the newer features like bonus rounds, free spins, and outlandish themes add to the slot machine experience?

Bonus Round, Bonus Money?

Whether you’re playing the online slots or if you’re at the local venue putting your coins in the machine – it’s a regular feature to see a bonus round. These come in all shapes and sizes. Some of them come with the price of admission (usually known as free spins), whereas some are seen as a bonus bet. I.e. if a player wins, they have the option to wager their winnings on a bonus spin. Depending on when the bonus rounds appear it can give the player an incentive to keep on playing.

How Many Free Spins Did You Say Again?

One of the most common phrases seen around gambling marketing is ‘sign up now and you’ll get [insert number here] free spins!’. The draw is supposed to be that you’ll get to gamble with the house’s money. On the surface, it sounds great when you sign up and get an inordinate amount of free spins. However, more experienced slot machine players and online casino users appreciate the drawstrings attached to these promises. Normally, you can only play on specific machines – which they may have manipulated to pay out less often. It’s usually above board but can be frustrating. However, to those who might not be as well versed in it the advent of X-amount of free spins could present remarkable value. New players could think that they are getting a good deal and sign up regardless.

Of course, these are usually only available on the online slots. Although, if you know the barman very well he might use his slot machine owner keys to give you a free play on the slot if he can do so.

Hold a Reel

One of the most prominent features of slot machines is the ability to hold a reel or multiple reels. This is where the player has landed on some reels that they would like to keep for the next spin. The remaining reels spin as usual but the held reels stay the same as they were before. This usually costs additional money or currency that is earned online.; sometimes it is given as a reward when a player reaches a specific amount of spins.

Some online slots however are pre-determined results meaning that holding a reel doesn’t change your odds of winning, at all. However, not everyone appreciates that. Some gamblers on the slot machine think it gives them an element of control over the games, meaning that they play such games offering this feature.

Decorative and Appealing Themes for Slots

Aesthetic attributes play a large role in attracting players to play slot machines in both the online and offline worlds. They serve as an important pillar in attracting people who might not be otherwise interested in playing slot machines to part with their money. There are slots based on popular TV shows and musical acts which do that very successfully. There are even a few sports-themed ones which try to attract people, i.e. the ice hockey-themed slot game which must be popular in Canada.

Do More Features Mean More Fun?

Yes and no. As we enter into a world where eSports and online gambling become closer and closer, the demand for bonus playability and features within online slot machines is somewhat needed to appeal to new and younger audiences.

There are however the classic slot machine fans who still enjoy the simplicity of the ‘spin and win’ elements. While none of them want a return to the mechanical slot machines of yesteryear, they don’t see the appeal of having too many extra features. After all, if a slot machine game has ALL of the possible extra features and added play elements then it could become rather confusing and take away from the appeal of what is supposed to be a simple casino game.

Ultimately, it’s down to the audience and what they want from a slot machine experience.

Galway band The Opacas to launch debut album with Róisín Dubh gig on Friday

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September 25, 2023

galway daily news local pop rock band the opacas who will release first album with gig at Roisin Dubh

Galway pop rock band The Opacas will launch their debut album Carpe Diem this week with a show at Róisín Dubh on Friday.

The show will also mark The Opacas’ third birthday, as they transition from being solely virtual, born of the 2020 lockdowns, into a live touring and performing band.

Carpe Diem will feature the essential Opacas mix of pop, rock, blues, and Americana, showcasing new material as well as all of their singles to date – from debut release, ‘Out Of My Mind’ to the recent ‘Shine On’ recorded with the Moycullen Musical Society.

The Opacas were formed during the Covid lockdown in March 2020 when all live music performances were suspended. The band’s members Steve Talbot, Peter Tobin, Pat Boyle, Joe Treacy, Mike McLoughlin, and Leeds based guitarist Mark Raynor, used simple apps on mobile phones to compose and share music with each other.

They finally got to meet in person when recording the video for ‘Out Of My Mind’ in a Salthill pub in September 2020.

This began a slew of singles from the Galwegians, accompanied by imaginative and inventive videos, often recorded in collaboration with other performers from various fields.

Singles such as ‘She Walks Away’ and ‘We Won’t Look Back’ featured story-based videos with actors from the Knocknacarra Amateur Theatre Society and Athenry Drama Group.

The band also created stripped down, piano-only versions of their songs, with videos displaying works by visual artist Aoife Dowd and Patrick Kenneally, and by photographer Dr Chaosheng Zang.

This commitment to collaborate with other creatives is a hallmark of The Opacas.

“It’s not just about us,” said lead vocalist Steve Talbot. “We wanted to use our music to showcase local artistic talent.”

The Opacas most recent single ‘Shine On’ is a tribute to a close work colleague who died suddenly in 2019 at the age of 42.

The melody is a call to the universe for his spirit to shine on, as the lyrics encompass the need to embrace the transience of life.

The creation of the song, and its debut performance in Galway’s historic St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, was captured by emerging Galway filmmaker Greta Thornton in a documentary screened at the Eye Cinema in April.

The launch of Carpe Diem in the Róisín Dubh and the band’s third birthday celebrations marks the start of a new chapter in the life of The Opacas, and an invitation to all music fans to ‘seize the day’ and join in the fun.

Admission is free and the gig starts at midnight. Support is from singer-songwriter Tomás Ó Cáinte who released his debut single ‘Grand Canyon’ this month.

Beautiful new dental clinic launches in Galway City

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September 25, 2023

galway daily news galway dental group's new clinic in galway city

A new, state-of-the-art dental clinic has been launched in Galway city following a €1.5million investment into a 370 square meter premises on Sean Mulvoy Road.

The Galway Dental Group aims to solve the issue of long waiting lists for dental care in the west of Ireland thanks to a team of leading dental experts.

Dr Alma and Paul Creaven launched the Galway Dental Group, who have combined clinical dental experience of over 25 years.

They will introduce flexible late evening and family-friendly weekend appointments, and deliver premium dental care and treatments.

The clinic offers the latest technologies, including AI-powered smile architecture, where patients can get a visual representation of their treatment outcome at the consultation stage.

Speaking about the launch, founder Dr Alma Creaven said they are delighted to welcome patients to Galway Dental Group and provide a much-needed service to those based in Galway and the neighbouring counties.

“Having worked in the dental industry for over two decades, we understand patients’ concerns from sedation to cosmetic dentistry,” said Dr Creaven.

“We wanted to create a welcoming and inviting space that offered transparency and education at every step, from procedural costs to treatment outcomes and everything in between.

“At Galway Dental Group, we want to showcase a new era of dentistry that focuses on sustainable and innovative dental care using the latest technology, delivering premium dental, orthodontic, sedation and cosmetic services in a calm and nurturing environment.”

The new clinic also boasts a range of in-house technologies, which include a state-of-the-art scanner that can detect decay without the need for an x-ray, making it suitable for pregnant and vulnerable patients.

The clinic has solar panels installed, while the design brings the outdoors in with a neutral colour palette of sage combined with serene landscape wallpaper, wooden beams, oak wood, and chevron flooring.

Clean up begins on problem field near ‘rat infested’ estate

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September 25, 2023

galway daily news loughrea estate residents protesting dumping in field causing rats — Residents of Fahy Gardens protesting outside the Loughrea Area office about illegal dumping near their houses

Clean up works have begun on a field beside Fahy Gardens in Loughrea where illegal dumping had been taking place, causing rats to appear in the back gardens of local residents.

Cllr Declan Kelly, who welcomed the works, called on the County Council to also erect gates leading into the laneway at the rear of houses near the field to obstruct those who have been throwing household rubbish into the field.

Cllr Kelly has been working for the past number of weeks to ensure that the field that has been the focus of illegal dumping beside Fahy Gardens is cleaned up.

He said that the dumping has caused untold problems for residents of Fahy Gardens and especially because it has drawn vermin with the distress of rats appearing in back gardens.

“The measures I have requested be implemented, which includes the setting of bait boxes and waste enforcement measures, will also assist in solving this problem,” he said.

Cllr Kelly added that it is important that those who are accessing the lanes at the rear of people’s houses to dump household rubbish are stopped.

Fahy Gardens resident Claudia Kinsella said thanked Cllr Declan Kelly for being “the only councillor to respond to the problem” of illegal dumping in the field.

“He has always been available by phone and I support his call for gates to be erected at the entrance to the back lanes which illegal dumpers have been using,” she said.

Portiuncula Hospital gifted 400 books as part of Read Mór initiative

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September 25, 2023

galway daily news read mór initiative at portiuncula hospital — From left: Dr Lisa O’Sullivan, SPR, Obstetrics and Gynaecology; Dr Marie Christine De Tavernier, Consultant Obstetrician/Gynaecologist; Read Mór Representative; Ms Ron Goldaphel Alforque, Clinical Nurse Manager 1, St Clare’s Ward; Dr Naser Shayoub, Registrar in Anaesthetics and Read Mór Representative.

Portiuncula University Hospital (PUH) has been selected as one of seven hospitals to participate in Read Mór, an Arts Council initiative to celebrate Culture Night.

Staff at PUH welcomed the Read Mór doctors and their teams last Friday where they gifted 400 free books from their Library Trolleys to patients in the hospital.

The Read Mór book gifting project is now in its second year and offers patients in selected hospitals an opportunity to get involved with Culture Night and escape to the furthest reaches of their imagination with a choice of 29 different books by Irish based authors and publishers.

Once finished reading, patients are encouraged to pass on their book when they leave hospital to a family member or friend.

With a wide variety being gifted, some as Gaeilge, there are titles to suit all interests and ages, from novels, short stories, poetry, memoirs, to children’s and young adult books. Audiobook versions of a selection of the titles are also available.

James Keane, Hospital Manager expressed huge gratitude to the Arts Council and Healthy Ireland for bringing this event to PUH.

“I was so pleased to welcome the Read Mór team to the hospital on Friday and I wish to thank the Arts Council and Healthy Ireland for involving our patients and staff in Culture Night,” he said.

“Cognitive stimulation is a really important component of health, wellbeing and recovery from illness.

“We know that staying physically and mentally active during a hospital stay helps patients to recover faster and this gift of books, which is spreading the joy of reading throughout the hospital, will be of huge benefit to our patients.”

Margaret Flannery, Director of Saolta Arts said that they were delighted to host the Book Doctors and their team in Portiuncula University Hospital for Culture Night 2023.

“Read Mór was a huge success and we are very grateful to the Arts Council in selecting such a variety of high quality Irish authors to share their work with patients and staff on the wards, corridors and waiting areas of our hospitals.

“Importantly this initiative brings cultural experiences to people who cannot access other cultural activities on Culture Night through ill health or work commitments.

“Thank you for bringing the gift of reading to them and hopefully when they get home they will remember their hospital experience as a positive one.”

Galway TDs call for review of An Garda Síochána amid morale and staffing issues

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September 25, 2023

A group of Galway TDs have raised serious concerns about ongoing morale and staffing issues in An Garda Síochána.

The Regional Group of TDs, which includes Galway’s Seán Canney, Denis Naughten, and Noel Grealish, have ublished a motion expressing severe concerns regarding the ongoing challenges faced by An Garda Síochána.

The motion calls for an immediate review of An Garda Síochána, and engagement with all shareholders, with recommendations to be published within 12 weeks.

The group have expressed particular concern about declining morale and issues around retention, the mandatory retirement age of 60 years, recruitment, transfers, rostering, entry-level pay, and the need to improve work practices.

“The Regional Group state that we must address the increasing assaults on Gardaí while on duty,” the groups said in a statement.

“We should get tougher on such crimes and create new legislation to act as a deterrent with mandatory custodial sentences for the criminal action of purposefully causing injury to a Garda”.

In their motion, the Regional Group TDs note the role of community policing in building solid relationships, fostering cooperation, and proactively addressing local concerns.

They seek to guarantee a baseline per capita Garda figure in each county to ensure that certain areas in the state are not under-policed.

The motion seeks for the number of Gardaí to be increased to 16,000 by the year 2028, and for the establishment of a mandatory custodial sentence for attacking Gardaí.

It also asks for the abandonment of all rostering changes until after the review is completed.

The shift back to pre-pandemic rosters was one of if not the driving issue behind the Garda Representative Association overwhelmingly voting no confidence in Commissioner Drew Harris recently.

Galway Food Tours Named Among the ‘World’s Tastiest’

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September 25, 2023

Galway Food Tours has been named in the prestigious list of the ‘World’s Tastiest Autumn Food Experiences’ by Sunday Times Ireland.

This exclusive compilation features 25 extraordinary food adventures from around the globe, highlighting Galway Food Tours’ exceptional contribution to the culinary world.

Galway Food Tours stands out as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts looking to savor the flavors of autumn in Ireland.

The list showcases an array of adventures, ranging from an Italian chestnut festival to foraging for German forest mushrooms and indulging in New York state wine and cider doughnuts.

Galway Food Tours is part of this esteemed selection, representing Ireland’s rich gastronomic culture and the city’s vibrant food scene.

Galway Food Tours has been recognised for its commitment to providing an immersive and unforgettable culinary journey through the heart of Galway. The tours offer participants the opportunity to discover the city’s hidden culinary gems.

Founder of Galway Food Tours,Sheena Dignam, “We are honoured to be included, this acknowledgment is a testament to the dedication of our team and the incredible culinary talent we have in Galway.

We look forward to welcoming food enthusiasts from around the world to join us in experiencing the magic of autumn in Galway.”

For more information about Galway Food Tours and to book your food adventure, check out www.galwayfoodtours.com.

Four ATU research teams win SFI funding to help address societal challenges

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September 25, 2023

GAL News - Dr Amaya Vega (right) and Myra Lydon (UoG) at ATU Galway (SFI Bridges project) — Dr Amaya Vega, Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Galway, and co-lead Dr Myra Lydon, University of Galway, pictured on campus at Dublin Road, Galway. Photo: Mike Shaughnessy.

Four ATU research teams have secured funding from Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) for projects related to infrastructure, agriculture, social issues, and more.

The research teams aim to come up with solutions to societal challenges through engagement and collaboration with communities, with funding under the National Challenge Fund announced recently by Higher Education Minister Simon Harris.

The Challenge sees 25 research teams lead projects aimed at helping Ireland prepare for its green transition and digital transformation.

The National Challenge Fund is a €65 million programme established under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan and funded by the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience Facility.

The four ATU teams are Business lecturer Dr Amaya Vega (ATU Galway) and co-lead Civil Engineering lecturer Dr Myra Lydon, (University of Galway); Physics lecturer Dr Niall Maloney (ATU Galway) and Professor Enda McGlynn (DCU); Engineering lecturer Dr Ruth Quinn (ATU Sligo) and Social Science lecturer Dr Natalie Delimata (ATU Sligo); Science lecturer Dr Shane O’Reilly (ATU Sligo) and Dr Ruairí Brannigan (DCU).

Bridge management & infrastructure investment

Dr Amaya Vega’s and Dr Myra Lydon’s project “EMBRACE-Mobility” takes a community-centric approach to bridge management and infrastructure investment prioritisation to ensure the mobility needs of rural communities are taken into consideration.

They will engage with the Western Development Commission (WDC), Galway County Council and other stakeholders.

“EMBRACE-Mobility will bring together transport researchers and rural communities in County Galway to understand the extent of the wider effects associated with bridge failure and to address the issue of climate adaptation and the sustainability of many rural communities,” explains Dr Vega.

“This novel approach to consider the value of bridge investments in terms of safeguarding mobility will provide vital evidence in securing future funding to maintain aging bridges connecting rural communities,” adds Dr Lydon.

“Bridges carry many other critical infrastructure services, including power, telecommunications and water, their importance is often overlooked. EMBRACE will for the first time enable us to understand the cascading impact of bridge loss across the region.”

Reversing social isolation

Dr Ruth Quinn’s and Dr Natalie Delimata’s interdisciplinary project will explore how to address the dual issues of social isolation and environmental decline.

It aims to support people’s mental and environmental health by empowering communities to create spaces that enable social connection through interaction with nature

Detecting disease in fish

The NanoSA team lead by Dr Niall Maloney (ATU) and co-lead Professor Enda McGlynn (DCU) are working with team Societal Impact Champion Catherine McManus (Mowi Ireland) to further improve the sustainability of the Irish Aquaculture Industry by developing technology for the rapid diagnosis of pathogenic infections at farm sites.

“Current methods for the diagnosis of pathogens in aquaculture are time consuming and are carried out in laboratories that are sometimes far from farm sites,” explains Dr Maloney.

By developing technology for use directly at the farm site we can reduce sample to answer times and ensure more timely and appropriate disease management practices can be implemented.”

The team will develop a test that works in a similar fashion to the COVID-19 tests that were used in homes and workplaces throughout the pandemic but with some modifications.

Securing crops and soil health with sustainable fungicides

ATU Sligo’s Dr Shane O’Reilly and DCU’s Ruairí Brannigan’s project, named LeafLock, will develop bio-based polymeric ‘stickers’ from unwanted biological by-products like woody biomass.

Fungal diseases are a persistent threat for global food supply, yet the production of fungicides relies on the petrochemical industry which has its own problems in terms of climate and carbon emissions.

Degradation products from current fungicide formulations may also be harmful and threaten soil health.

These polymeric stickers aim to improve effectiveness of fungicides and reduce the environmental burden.

Announcing the finalists, Higher Education Minister Simon Harris said: “The researchers are committing to solving long-term problems, but they need to develop their ideas quickly and validate their solutions to keep unlocking funding each year.”

“This kind of solutions-driven research will help us to tackle the big societal changes we face as we become a green and digital country.”

Man dies following incident at Loughrea cattle mart

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September 25, 2023

Galway Daily news man dies in hospital following traffic collision

A man has died following an incident at a cattle mart in Galway over the weekend.

Gardaí in Loughrea are investigating the death of a man following an incident at the mart in Loughrea on Saturday, September 23.

A man in his late 60s was injured following an incident while the mart was in progress at approximately 4:25pm.

He was taken by Ambulance to University Hospital Galway where he was later pronounced deceased.

The HSA and Coroner have been notified An Garda Síochána told Galway Daily.

Competitor dies in serious crash during Clare motor rally

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September 24, 2023

A rally competitor has died following a two vehicle collision on Sunday afternoon at Glencolumbkille, Carran during the Clare Rally.

A male passenger (30s) was fatally injured and pronounced deceased at scene, and the rally was cancelled at around 1.30pm.

His body was removed from the scene to University Hospital Limerick where a post-mortem will take place in due course.

The male driver of the second vehicle was taken to University Hospital Limerick for treatment for injuries which are believed to be non-life-threatening.

The second driver and passenger, both males, were uninjured.

The road is currently closed and scene of the collision is preserved for examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. Traffic diversions are in place.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Ennis Garda Station on 065 684 8100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Two incomplete paths in Ballinasloe are ‘critical concern’ for pedestrian safety

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September 24, 2023

galway daily news cllr evelyn parsons at a path in ballinasloe

A meeting between Galway County Council Active Travel Team and the National Transport Authority is scheduled to discuss projects which have been paused pending an NTA review.

The issue was raised at the Ballinasloe Municipal District Meeting by Cllr Evelyn Parsons who stated that active travel projects like Beechlawn and Poolboy paths and others needed to be progressed urgently.

She said that the paths were left incomplete and are a critical concern regarding ongoing pedestrian safety which is a top priority.

“I’m urging that they are expedited to completion without further delay,” said Cllr Parsons, who added that there had already been a huge input of council resources from competent staff on projects including Beechlawn and Poolboy among others.

“Despite having worked hard to put in place successful funding, tenders, contracts along with cooperation of landowners and residents, further phases of the project have now inexplicably stalled.

“We learn a year into the project that the NTA are now reviewing previously submitted successful active travel applications.”

Cllr Parsons said that it is moving the goalposts late into the game and looks like work duplication where she would question if it’s the most appropriate use of taxpayers money in a time of tight resources.

“There’s no doubt paths submitted in Beechlawn, Poolboy and elsewhere are needed to provide safe routes to school and to connect services, residential and commercial centres.

“Active travel projects are placed on a slow expensive path to nowhere unless there is joined up thinking at National level leading to joined up paths locally – there is need in central government to quickly step up support for the work of local authorities.”

Orange warning for intense rainfall in Galway

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September 24, 2023

Galway Daily weather Weather warning for heavy rain and possible flooding now in effect

Met Éireann has issued a status orange warning for Galway and Mayo ahead of intense rainfall on Sunday afternoon.

The heavy downpours could result in flooding, poor visibility and dangerous travelling conditions.

The warning, issued on Sunday morning by Met Éireann, will come into effect at 1pm, lasting just four hours.

Only Galway and Mayo are affected by Sunday’s orange weather warning.

Galway County Council shortlisted for Excellence in Local Government Award

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September 23, 2023