NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION ONE PREVIEW

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January 17, 2018

Only one weather warning has been issued by Met Éireann for Galway this evening.

As the county recovers from Storm Fionn, a fast moving Atlantic depression will cross Ireland this evening and early tonight, bringing winds of 50 to 65km/h and gusts of 90 to 110km/h to many counties.

Met Éireann says winds may temporarily exceed these values in exposed Atlantic coastal fringes for a time this evening.

There is also an increased risk of coastal flooding due to the combination of the high seas, strong winds and the low pressure.

Elsewhere, scattered snow showers are forecast later in the night and throughout Thursday across Ulster.

At present, the main risk of appreciable accumulations is limited to Ulster.

“It Should All Be Played Off this Sunday” – COMER

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January 17, 2018

Galway footballer Damien Comer has weighed in regarding the decision by the Connacht Council not to double up this Sunday’s meeting with Roscommon (2pm Tuam Stadium) as the FBD League Final.

Speaking at the launch of the National Football league in Dublin, the Annaghdown player’s comments on meeting their neighbours in a dead rubber match a final on Febtuary 18th that caught most attention.

Galway and Roscommon to meet in FBD League final https://t.co/cKnqwdXCVw

— Galway Bay FM Sport (@gbfmsports) January 15, 2018

“Ah we’re on about compacting games, it’s just an extra game, it’s pointless,” said Comer to assembled media. “I think it should all be played off this Sunday and give players a chance to take a weekend off or something, give a chance for recovery in that weekend off during the league.”

The Connacht Council have insisted Sunday’s game will not double up as the final despite requests from both counties stating they can’t be changing the rules during the competition. Sligo also have games scheduled with Leitrim and Mayo tonight (Wednesday 17th) and Sunday (20th) respectively.

However, Munster set a precedent last weekend when the McGrath Cup Football Final (Cork vs Clare) and the Munster Hurling League Final (Limerick vs Clare) replaced the final round group games and determined tournament winners.

We’d like to wish our bartender Damien Comer and all the @Galway_GAA lads the best of luck today against @MayoGAA #gaillimhabú pic.twitter.com/CZaaaFLkiw

— Taaffes Bar (@taaffesbar) January 7, 2018

“The fact that it’s two games,” added the Galway forward scored in Friday’s (12th) win against Mayo. “It’s more people coming to the games, it generates more gate money, that could be the reason or whatever. I think just for player welfare it makes sense to play it all on Sunday.

“It’s the same two teams that will be playing this weekend that will be playing in February. So, why not just put it together and have it as the FBD final? I think it makes sense for everyone. You’re on about player welfare; that break is nice to get after the first two league game – you get a break, you regroup.”

TWO GALWAY TEAMS CHASE SCHOOLS BASKETBALL HONOURS

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January 16, 2018

(Photo – St. Paul’s Oughterard)

St. Paul’s, Oughterard and Colaiste Einde, Galway will go in search of All-Ireland glory next week (Wednesday, 24th January) as both emerged victorious from their respective semi-finals.

The Subway All-Ireland Schools Basketball Finals details taking place in the National Basketball Arena, Tallaght were announced taking place between Tuesday and Thursday.

Colaiste Einde will compete in the under 16 B decider when they face Colaiste an Spioraid Naoimh from Cork at 12.15pm. And St. Paul’s will contest the under 19 B final against St. Vincent’s Castleknock College at 3.30pm.

Both teams were prominent in the school’s leagues and will look to maintain their form in the knock out series.

https://www.facebook.com/stpaulsoughterard/photos/a.136865590273465.1073741828.128082464485111/158261564800534/?type=3&theater

St. Paul’s won the girls competition two years ago under coach Diarmuid Lee and the boys will aim to repeat the feat. In Paul Kelly, they have a top talisman who averages 35 points per game and he is well supported by Ryan Monaghan and Alan Kelly.

They started their campaign in September with a 20-0 victory over St. Columbs, Derry before being comfortable 80-53 victors against Colaiste Choilmcille, Ballyshannon.

The quarter-final was a tighter affair edging past St. Oliver’s, Drogheda 68-62. And in the semi-final last Friday (12th), the were successful 70-58 against their neighbours Colaiste Einde.

Congratulations to our U16 Boys Basketball team on qualifying for the @BballIrl All-Ireland B Cup Final following a thrilling victory over St Oliver’s,Drogheda yesterday on a score line of 45-42. Well done Ms De Paor (manager) and past pupil Kyle Walsh (coach) pic.twitter.com/LBu31pEnux

— Coláiste Éinde (@Colaiste_Einde) January 12, 2018

However, Colaiste Einde have shown their talent in the lower age grade and in Malik Thiam, they possess an Irish underage international who averages 24 points each outing.

Their first assignment in October saw them prevail 48-37 over St. Columbs, Derry before Marist College, Athlone were dispatched 66-31 in the quarter-final. They had a tough semi-final coming through St. Oliver’s, Drogheda 45-42 to reach the final.

Both contests will be tight affairs but the two Galway schools will travel with confidence. And as both are involved on the same card with only one match in between, a strong Tribal support could spur them to back-to-back wins.

Council closes Salthill Promenade ahead of storm

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January 16, 2018

In light of the three weather warnings issued for Galway, the City Council has decided to close parts of the Salthill promenade.

In a statement, the council said: “TheOPW forecast was checked at 3pm on Tuesday 16th Jan. ‘18 and it indicates that high tides will not exceed 5.0 m C.D. in the coming days and therefore below the critical level of 5.6m.”

However, Met Éireann has issued an orange status wind warning for the county ahead of storm Fionn.

“As a precaution Galway City Council will close the Seapoint Promenade at Salthill from Grattan Rd. to the D’Arcy roundabout from 4pm on Tuesday 16th Jan. ’18.” Galway City Council added

Galway City Council said it will continue to monitor the weather over the coming days and review its response as appropriate.

FRIENDLY FIXTURES CONFIRMED FOR GALWAY UNITED

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January 16, 2018

Galway United have confirmed four of a potential six pre-season friendlies for Shane Keegan’s side as the countdown continues to their opening Airtricity League First Division fixture in Eamonn Deacy Park against Athlone Town on February 23rd.

The Tribesmen head to Markets Field in Limerick next Saturday (January 20th, 6.30pm) for a meeting with Limerick FC before hosting Sligo Rovers six days later (7.45pm).

Bohemians will be the visitors to Eamonn Deacy Park on Feburary 9th (7.45pm) before Galway United go on their travels the following Friday to take on First Division rivals Shelbourne in Tolka Park at the same time (Februrary 16th).

There’s also be a meeting behind closed doors in Abbotstown against St. Patrick’s Athletic and one more match is expected to be confirmed in the near future.

With Limerick FC, under new manager Tommy Barrett, being their first opponents, it’ll be an opportunity for new signing Tadhg Ryan to face his former club whom he lined out with at under 19 level.

The 20-year-old goalkeeper signed from Huddersfield Town last week bringing Keegan’s squad up to 14 confirmed players though former Limerick FC player Stephen Kenny and Shamrock Rovers’ Sean Boyd are also rumoured to be heading west.

Ryan moved to Huddersfield Town four years ago and played at all levels up to under 23 before being recently released. He did experience three months of senior football at the end of 2016 on loan to Radcliffe Borough and Keegan was delighted with his new signing.

Absolutely Delighted to join @GalwayUnitedFC !! Exciting times ahead and can’t wait for season to start ⚽️ 🙌🏻☘️ #GUFC https://t.co/NvUOny2eTT

— Tadhg Ryan (@TadhgRyan_1) January 12, 2018

“I think it’s a real coup,” said the manager to Galway United’s official website. “I think Tadhg has tremendous potential and he could be a huge addition for us.

“He’s taken quite a leap to agree to a termination of his contract at Huddersfield, he was just hungry to get going and playing games at first team level. He was adamant that he wanted to be here for the first day of pre-season. His attitude through this whole process has been superb.

“Tadhg is unbelievably hungry to get involved in a first team environment. For all the development players get over there, you really can’t beat first team football, where winning is all that matters on a Friday night.”

Keegan will aim to further strengthen his squad shortly but he had to say goodbye to his first team and assistant coach Leo Tierney who departed the club citing work commitments after four years there.

“Firstly, I’d like to thank the club for the last few years, I’ve really enjoyed helping the club to re-establish itself, through the good times and not so good times last year,” said Tierney.

“I enjoyed working with the players, who have been excellent and of course all the staff. I’d like to thank the committee for giving me the opportunity.

Tierney: “Most of all, I’d like to thank the supporters, they’ve been brilliant over the last few years. I really appreciated their encouragement and I wish the club the best of luck in the future.”

Best of luck to Leo in the future.

— Galway United (@GalwayUnitedFC) January 13, 2018

2018 GALWAY UNITED SQUAD (so far – 14): Eoin McCormack, Ryan Connolly, Marc Ludden, Conor Barry, Aaron Conway, Maurice Nugent, Gary Kinneen, Gary Shanahan, Alex Byrne, Conor Melody, Stephen Walsh, Adam Rooney, Ronan Manning, Tadhg Ryan.

Confirmed Pre-Season Fixtures:

Limerick FC vs Galway United (Saturday, 20th January – 6.30pm University of Limerick (UL)

Galway United vs Sligo Rovers (Friday, 26th January – 7.45pm Eamonn Deacy Park)

Galway United vs Bohemians (Friday, 9th February – 7.45pm Eamonn Deacy Park)

Shelbourne vs Galway United (Friday, 16th February – 7.45pm Tolka Park)

Jaguar Land Rover to create 150 jobs in the West of Ireland

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January 16, 2018

Jaguar Land Rover has confirmed plans to open a software engineering centre and create 150 jobs in the west of Ireland in 2018.

Working alongside Jaguar Land Rover’s engineering team in the UK, the new facility in Shannon will have an important role to play in the company’s plans for electric and automated driving vehicles.

Jaguar Land Rover has selected Shannon as it is recognised around the world as a centre of excellence for current and future software engineering talent.

Nick Rogers, Executive Director of Product Engineering, said: “Technical innovation lies at the heart of Jaguar Land Rover and our innovation is continuous. The new facility provides an exciting opportunity for us to pioneer future autonomous and electrification technologies.”

“The heart of our business will always be in the UK. The creation of a team in Shannon strengthens our international engineering capabilities and complements our existing team of more than 10,000 engineers based in the UK.”

Supported by the IDA, the Shannon team will start by developing the next generation of electrical architecture as well as exploring advanced driver assistance systems features for future vehicles.

Welcoming the announcement, Minister of State for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection, Pat Breen said:

“This is a great boost for Shannon, Co. Clare and the Midwest Region. Jaguar Land Rover are iconic brands which have endured through innovation and staying ahead of their competitors. This new software engineering centre will bring 150 new high quality jobs to Shannon. The region has much to offer with qualified and talented people and I wish Jaguar Land Rover and its team well in its endeavours.”

Galway TD hits out at Minister for failing to spend allocated budget

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January 16, 2018

A Galway TD has hit out at Minister Michael Ring and his Department of Rural & Community Development for failing to spend all of the allocated budget of €163m last year.

Éamon Ó Cuív TD said he will be questioning the Minister in the Dáil this afternoon.

Despite a last minute spending spree towards the end of the year, €19m of allocated funds remained unspent.

“I will be questioning Minister Ring later this afternoon as to how such an underspend was allowed to happen. There was over €11m, which should have been spent on infrastructure projects in rural areas as well as a further €8m which could have been used for day to day spending,” said Deputy Ó Cuív.

The Galway TD said that this does not come as a surprise.

“I had been forecasting throughout 2017, that there would be a very significant underspend by this Department as it was evident in the replies I was receiving from the Minister and his officials. In fact, if it wasn’t for the late approval for the Local Improvement Scheme, which I had been requesting, the underspend would have been much more significant.

“It is absolutely imperative that the Minister lays out clearly, how he intends spending the money allocated to him this year, as well as the carryover of €7.7m in capital, being brought forward from 2017, fully and in good time.

“This Government repeatedly claims that it has not enough money to provide services and basic infrastructure, so it is difficult to understand how Minister Ring can fail to spend such a high percentage of the budget in any one year. This is particularly significant when this Department’s budget is by far the smallest budget of any of the government Departments.

“It once again highlights the fact that rural Ireland is not a priority for this government and that it is more interest in lip-service than action,” he added.

Orange warning in place for Galway ahead of Storm Fionn this evening

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January 16, 2018

It feels like one of the worst winters ever, and the horrible weather conditions are set to deteriorate once again tonight.

Two separate weather warnings have been issued for Galway by Met Éireann today ahead of Storm Fionn, which is set to arrive later today.

An Orange wind warning has been issued, in effect from 3pm today, lasting for 12 hours until 3am tomorrow morning. The yellow warning for high seas remains in place until Thursday.

Met Éireann says that this evening and tonight, Storm Fionn will bring very strong westerly winds to Galway with wind speeds of 65 to 80 km/h and gusts of up to 120 km/hr.

The strongest winds will be felt near coasts, and there is a risk of flooding.

Meanwhile, today will remain very cold throughout the afternoon with widespread wintry showers over higher ground, some heavy with a risk of thunder.

Accumulations of snow are likely across Ulster of the country and mainly over higher ground elsewhere.

The strong and gusty westerly winds will make it feel extra cold, say Met Éireann.

Winds will reach gale force along the Atlantic Seaboard with some severe gusts and very high seas as well.

Temperatures will remain low throughout the night.

Results (January 12th – 14th)

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January 15, 2018

GAA

Connacht FBD League

GALWAY 1-10 Mayo 1-9 (REPORT)

GALWAY 3-6 Leitrim 0-8

GALWAY vs ROSCOMMON DEAD RUBBER TO GO AHEAD NEXT SUNDAY! https://t.co/momZVvCCi8

— Galway Daily (@GalwayDaily) January 15, 2018

	Pld	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
ROSCOMMON	3	3	0	0	64	36	6	+28
GALWAY	3	3	0	0	43	31	6	+12
MAYO	3	0	1	2	39	42	1	-3
LEITRIM	3	0	1	2	27	48	1	-21
SLIGO	2	0	0	2	27	43	0	-16

Under 21 B Football Championship – North Final

GLENAMADDY/GLINSK 0-14 Headford 1-6

Under 21 A Hurling Championship

TURLOUGHMORE 0-19 Loughrea 2-8

Under 21 B Hurling Championship

MULLAGH/KILTORMER 3-11 Ahascragh/Fohenagh 2-11

SARSFIELDS 3-12 St. Thomas 1-8

SKEHANA-MOUNTBELLEW/MOYLOUGH 0-15 Carnmore 1-8

RUGBY

European Challenge Cup

Worcester Warriors 24-24 Connacht (REPORT)

Plane fault caps off dramatic Connacht weekend (Match Highlights Included) https://t.co/bRbg6k3AHD

— Galway Daily (@GalwayDaily) January 15, 2018

Team	Pl	W	D	L	PF	PA	Diff	TF	TA	TB	LB	Pts
Connacht Rugby	5	4	1	0	175	88	87	21	13	3	0	21
Worcester Warriors	5	2	1	2	117	100	17	15	12	3	2	15
Brive	5	2	0	3	128	155	-27	18	18	3	1	12
Oyonnax	5	1	0	4	88	165	-77	9	20	0	0	4

Women’s All-Ireland League

GALWEGIANS 22-12 Cooke

Team	Pl	W	D	L	F	A	Diff	TB	LB	Pts
Railway Union RFC	9	8	0	1	433	50	383	7	0	39
U.L. Bohemian	9	8	0	1	293	86	207	7	0	39
Old Belvedere	9	6	0	3	265	94	171	5	1	30
Cooke	9	5	0	4	161	149	12	3	0	23
Blackrock	9	3	0	6	155	334	-179	4	0	16
Galwegians	9	2	1	6	127	292	-165	4	1	15
Tullamore	9	2	0	7	132	338	-206	3	2	13
Highfield	9	1	1	7	84	307	-223	2	1	9

Connacht Junior Cup

BALLINA 13-5 Monivea

BALLINROBE 11-0 Portumna

Ballyhaunis 0-39 CORINTHIANS

CASTLEBAR 51-17 Buccaneers

Corrib 6-15 CONNEMARA

SLIGO 16-3 Galwegians

Westport 0-17 TUAM

Connacht J1C League

Westport 0-29 CARRICK

Connacht J2 League

LOUGHREA 10-3 Connemara

Oughterard 10-18 GALWEGIANS

Connacht Women’s League

Ballinasloe 0-58 CASTLEBAR

Under 18.5 A League

Galwegians 7-29 CORINTHIANS

Under 18.5 Development League

NUIG 70-12 Ballyhaunis

Under 17 League Pool 1

Carrick 11-17 CREGGS

Sligo 7-34 BALLINA

Westport 17-32 CORRIB

Under 17 League Pool 2

BALLINASLOE 27-20 Buccaneers

CORINTHIANS 18-10 Galwegians

Oughterard 10-28 MONIVEA

Under 15 A League Pool 1

BALLINA 38-12 Tuam

Under 15 A League Pool 2

BALLINASLOE 25-5 Galwegians

Monivea 19-48 BUCCANEERS

Under 15 Development League

CARRICK 29-10 NUIG

Connemara 17-32 BUCCANEERS

Under 15 Girls League

BALLINA 85-0 Galwegians

Under 14 Development League Pool 1

OUGHTERARD 47-14 Buccaneers

CAMOGIE

National League Division One

CORK 0-13 Galway 1-3 (REACTION)

GALWAY FALL SHORT IN NATIONAL CAMOGIE LEAGUE OPENER https://t.co/WPadtN7yEH

— Galway Daily (@GalwayDaily) January 14, 2018

Team	Played	Won	Drawn	Lost	Points For	Points Against	Points Diff	Points
Cork	1	1	0	0	13	6	7	3
Wexford	1	1	0	0	19	18	1	3
Offaly	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Tipperary	1	0	0	1	18	19	-1	0
Galway	1	0	0	1	6	13	-7	0

SOCCER

FAI Junior Cup Round 5

Nenagh Celtic 1-2 MERVUE UTD

FT ET @NenaghCelticFc 1-2 @MervueUnitedAFC goals from Barry Moran and Eoin Concannon

— Mervue United A.F.C. (@MervueUnitedAFC) January 14, 2018

Ballinasloe Town 0-4 ST. MICHAELS

TP Brennan Connacht Cup Round 3

ACHILL ROVERS 1-0 Craughwell United

Cloonfad Utd 1-2 CORRIB RANGERS

LOUGHREA 1-0 Westport United

MACDARA 3-0 Merlin Woods FC/Medtronic

Salthil Devon 2-4 MERVILLE UTD

St. BERNARDS 3-0 Maree/Oranmore

STRAIDE AND FOXFORD 2-1 Corrib Celtic

WEST UTD 4-1 Calry Bohs

TP Brennan Connacht Shield

Dynamo Blues B 2-3 CORRIB CELTIC B

ATHENRY B 2-0 Bearna Na Forbacha

CREGMORE/CLAREGALWAY FC 2-0 Galway Bohs B

HODSON BAY 4-2 Knocknacarra

Kilkerrin Utd 1-4 DYNAMO BLUES

Western Hygiene Division 4

St. Bernards B 1-6 RENMORE B

GFA 17/18 Youths Division 1

ATHENRY B 2-1 Merlin Woods FC/Medtronic

Connacht Cup Under 18

BALLISODARE UTD 1-0 Athenry

MANULLA 3-1 Corrib Rangers

Cregmore/Claregalway FC 2-4 CLAREMORRIS

Maree/Oranmore B 1-2 GALWAY HIBS

Connacht Under 18 Shield

Corrib Celtic 0-5 TUAM

SALTHILL DEVON 6-1 Kinvara Utd

SFAI Under 16 Skechers Cup Regional Semi-Final

Arrow Harps 1-6 SALTHILL DEVON

Moyne Villa 1-3 MANULLA

Connacht Cup Under 16 Quarter-Final

TUAM CELTIC 1-0 Dunmore Town

Connacht Shield Under 16 Quarter-Final

CORRIB CELTIC 5-0 Kinvara Utd

GFA Under 16 Championship

Corofin Utd 3-5 WEST COAST UTD

GFA Girls Under 16 A

Athenry 0-5 OUGHTERARD

GFA Under 15 Premier

BEARNA NA FORBACHA 2-1 Athenry

SALTHILL DEVON 5-1 Knocknacarra

GFA Under 15 Championship

TUAM CELTIC 3-1 Galway Hibs

CORRIB CELTIC 3-2 Craughwell United

GFA Under 15 Division 1

Oughterard 2-2 Kinvara Utd

GFA Under 15 Division 2

Cregmore/Claregalway FC B 0-2 ATHENRY B

SALTHILL DEVON B 7-3 Knocknacarra B

SFAI Under 14 Skechers Cup Semi-Finals

CASTLEBAR CELTIC 4-3 Cregmore/Claregalway FC

Maree/Oranmore 0-1 WESTPORT UNITED

WFAI Under 14 Cup Round 4

MERVUE UTD 3-1 Parkvilla

REGIONAL UNITED 3-2 Salthill Devon

Connacht Under 14 Shield Quarter-Final

Tuam Celtic 0-2 RENMORE

GFA Under 14 Division 1

MERVUE UTD B 2-1 Cregmore/Claregalway FC B

SFAI Under 13 Subway Championship

Athlone League 0-0 Galway League

GFA Under 13 Championship

OUGHTERARD 5-1 Salthill Devon B

TUAM CELTIC 3-1 Maree/Oranmore B

GFA Under 13 Division 1

Colga B 1-2 CRAUGHWELL UNITED

COROFIN UTD 3-1 Kilshanvey Utd

KINVARA UTD 5-0 Cregmore/Claregalway FC

GFA Under 13 Division 2

Corrib Celtic B 2-5 RENMORE

ST. BERNARDS 5-1 BearnaNa Forbacha B

Athenry B 0-3 COIS FHARRAIGE

Kinvara Utd B 4-4 Craughwell United B

SFAI Under 12 Subway Championship

GALWAY LEAGUE 5-3 Athlone League

Connacht Cup Under 12 Round 4

MERVUE UTD B 3-0 AC Celtic

GFA Under 12 Championship

St. Bernards 1-2 KNOCKNACARRA B

GFA Under 12 Division 1

Corofin Utd 2-3 MAREE/ORANMORE C

WEST COAST UTD 5-0 Kinvara Utd

GFA Under 12 Division 5

ATHENRY C 3-1 Colga C

Opinion: On your bike, offended cyclists

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January 15, 2018

galway daily offended cyclists on a country road

Peddling the idea of untouchable groups is dangerous in a free society.

The Late Late Show remains one of the most watched TV shows in Ireland. From its early days, it has sometimes caused outrage. The anger often came as a result of people being offended when the conservative values which plagued our island were challenged live on air.

Over the years, the show has become an institution and it has evolved. It has changed set many times, host twice, and the no swearing rule is now confined to the archives. Tut tut.

It is, in many ways, a different programme to when Gay Byrne asked the questions all those years ago.

Nowadays, people are used to seeing the types of things that would have at one time outraged the nation. In the past year, Ryan Tubridy has interviewed a transgender woman, a man with a bag over his head slating the Church and a comedian who joked that old people were clogging up hospitals.

An amateur historian who uncovered one of the Church’s darkest secrets received a rare standing ovation from the entire audience.

Despite a few complaints here and there from members of the public who need a new hobby, we have, in general, moved on.

That is, until Friday, when some high and mighty cyclists decided that they not only cannot take a joke, but they must not be joked about.

A bin was carried on stage, in which three guests were asked to figuratively dump their pet hates in a poor-man’s Room 101 type segment.

Maura Derrane said that cyclists who cycle four-abreast on country lanes, where there is no need to do so, cannot compete in terms of speed with cars and that they do it ‘to piss people off’. James Kavanagh agreed, comparing cyclists who do this to farm animals. Maura Derrane then distanced herself from the joke, telling Kavanagh to ‘whisht’.

The Dublin Cycling Campaign took issue with the comments and Ryan Tubridy’s handling of the issue, sending RTÉ the following complaint.

Of course, it is true that cyclists are often treated badly by impatient, arrogant drivers. Taxi drivers often complain about cyclists on ‘their’ roads, as if they built the roads with their bare hands using money from a fare. This arrogance exists, and Maura Derrane was probably off the mark commenting about arrogant cyclists, when it is in fact drivers of cars, lorries and buses who have the arrogance to claim the road to themselves. The bigger the vehicle – the more right they have to be there, they believe. As a country, we would benefit from more bikes and fewer cars.

But…

Offence is taken, not given. The Dublin Cycling Campaign’s ridiculous comments, crying ‘casual cyclist hatred’, is laughable. Their horrible response to Derrane’s comments, saying that “15 people died while cycling last year, many of them on the country roads which Maura Derrane seems not to have sufficient patience to drive on,” is shocking and disturbing. Each of these deaths is a tragedy, and everyone watching knows that Derrane was not referring to those who sadly lost their lives while cycling.

Following that logic, it would also be offensive to criticise any motorist or subgroup of motorist because of the other tragic deaths that occur on our roads. Cyclists are more vulnerable, but their vulnerability on the road does not excuse them from being discussed in the public sphere.

While cyclists may not have found anything said funny, especially the lighthearted reference to sheep and cows, the level of offence taken has been ridiculous and counter-productive.

Some motorists should be better informed and take more care on our shared roads. This can be achieved through nationwide campaigns.

It will be accomplished through educating motorists about cyclists. Trying to silence jokes, however offensive they may be to some hypersensitive people, is wasted energy as it does nothing to advance cyclists’ safety.

The Dublin Cycling Campaign has the right to be offended, but belittling “incitement to hatred” is genuinely offensive to those groups in our society who actually experience hatred on a daily basis.

Perhaps in trying to counter the perceived arrogance of the guests who shared stories of annoying cyclists, who have the right to criticise cyclists as much as motorists if we still value freedom of expression, they have exposed their own arrogance and belief that they are in fact the untouchable road users.

“We’re Disappointed How It Finished Out” – O’Donovan

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January 15, 2018

(Picture – Galway Camogie)

Galway’s camogie year started with defeat to reigning All-Ireland champions Cork on Sunday after they couldn’t capitalise on a strong start.

Ailish O’Reilly’s goal on six minutes gave the Tribeswomen a 1-1 to 0-1 advantage in the Cork Camogie Grounds but they only managed two Aoife Donohue scores during the remainder of the contest.

Cork sat back following initial pressure and moved the ball across the channels while suffocating the supply into Galway’s inside line. Orla Cotter (0-7) and Amy O’Connor (0-4) were the Rebelettes’ chief scores as Paudie Murray’s team led by one point at half-time before pulling away in the third quarter.

GALWAY FALL SHORT IN NATIONAL CAMOGIE LEAGUE OPENER

Cork Camogie 0-13
Galway Camogie 1-3… https://t.co/wMQcV76iBu

— Official Galway Camogie (@GalwayCamogie96) January 14, 2018

“We’re disappointed how it finished out,” said Galway manager Tony O’Donovan. “We started very well and we had the run on Cork for the first 10 minutes. And they seemed to change tactics during the game. We seemed to find it very hard to adapt to that.

“Things were going according to plan. We are disappointed. We missed scoreable frees; Cork didn’t as well. There’s little things like that caused the backlog towards the end of the game.”

“The point at this time of the season is to give everyone a try out and we done that. And we gave girls who hadn’t a game in two years a game today and it was great to see that. The one thing (is) we kept trying until the end. We didn’t give in.

“They (new players) performed well. It’s great to see Siobhan Coen back and she hurled well for her first day back after her cruciate knee operation. And it’s new again to Mont (Rachel Monaghan) and she done fine as well. She kept trying and trying and trying and that’s what we want.

“And Caitriona Cormican had good work all the way through the game. So, the new players that started done very well. And we introduced Ava Lynskey and Ciara Murphy as well and Emma Helebert. So, we’re happy with that.”

The Galway manager acknowledged that their tally of 1-3 will need improving but pointed out that it was very early in their preparations while they also lined out without 11 players including the Sarsfields and Athenry contingents and midfielder Niamh Kilkenny.

“The league has started very early this year and there isn’t a pitch to be got in Galway at the minute. And that was shown.

“We’ve done a bit on astro (turf) and we’re very much involved in a strength and conditioning programme at the minute. We’re eight weeks into that so that’s a lot of heavy legs going out on heavy pitches.”

Cork manager Murray was happy with the result and their tally of 13 points in the difficult conditions.

“The main thing for me during the National League, particularly after winning the All-Ireland last year was the attitude of the players,” said the three-time All-Ireland winner to Linda Mellerick in the Evening Echo.

“We certainly don’t want players getting carried away with themselves and I thought that side of things was very, very good.

“There is a good buzz about them and 13 points today with the rain that has fallen over the past number of days you’d have to be happy with it.

“We want a couple of players to be putting their hand up again this year and that’s what we’ll be looking for during the league.”

‘’If we can get two players out of the league it’ll be a success.”

https://www.facebook.com/dermotflahertyvideo/videos/201258767091699/

(Video – Dermot Flaherty Video)

PLANE FAULT CAPS OFF DRAMATIC CONNACHT WEEKEND (Match Highlights Included)

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January 15, 2018

Match Highlights HERE

(Picture – EPC Rugby)

The drama didn’t stop in the Sixways Stadium for Connacht’s Rugby Team on Saturday as they had to endure a flight scare returning home to Ireland.

The @flybe aircraft that diverted to us on its way to Knock @irelandwest. Probs with flaps but landed safely. On board, the @connachtrugby team on way home after yesterday’s game against @worcswarriors pic.twitter.com/TjehiFHD80

— Belfast Airport (@belfastairport) January 14, 2018

Their Sunday morning flight from Birmingham to Knock was be diverted to Belfast Airport following a technicial problem that led to a five-hour bus journey home.

“Flybe can confirm that the captain of the above flight took the recommended action following a suspected technical fault during the above flight from Birmingham to Ireland West Airport Knock,” said the airline in a statement.

“And as an additional precautionary measure, elected to divert to Belfast International where the aircraft landed safely without incident.

“As is usual in such circumstances, the airport put its emergency vehicles on standby. All 62 passengers disembarked as normal when the aircraft arrived on stand following which they were transported by road to their destination.”

Pilot miss judges the landing for Knock airport(for whatever reason), then decides to miss Shannon/Dublin and land in Belfast. Yay 5 hour bus drive 😡😡

— Bundee Aki (@bundeeaki12) January 14, 2018

Then again thanks to the pilot who landed us safely. 🙌🙏 #grateful

— Bundee Aki (@bundeeaki12) January 14, 2018

Connacht had come from 12 points behind to rescue their European Challenge Cup tie on Saturday following a 24-24 draw with Worcester Warriors.

Perry Humphreys (2), Sam Lewis and possible Welsh recruit Josh Adams ran in four first half tries as the home side took a 24-14 interval lead.

John Muldoon and Niyi Adeolokun overturned an initial 12-0 deficit inside four minutes but Connacht were under serious pressure at the break playing with 13 men after Quinn Roux and Jarrad Butler were sinbinned.

But they dug after the restart to avoid more concessions before Craig Ronaldson’s expert kicking and Tiernan O’Halloran’s try brought them all square. Bundee Aki and Conor Carey also had tries disallowed with no television match official but the result was enough to clinch a quarter-final spot.

“The big issue is about how we dig these holes for ourselves and we are pretty good at it,” said Connacht coach Kieran Keane to assembled media afterwards. “We just have to get things right otherwise we make it too tough and will probably lose.”

“Ironic, because we had two focus points prior to the game in terms of attack and defence, and one of them was to get out of the blocks really quickly. Instead, six minutes and we are down 12 points. We certainly didn’t roar out of the blocks as planned.”

Galway Senator demands answers about ambulance delay for toddler

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January 15, 2018

Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh is calling on the Minister for Health and the National Ambulance Service to carry out an investigation into a delay in an ambulance being deployed, which put a Connemara toddler’s life at risk earlier this month.

The Independent senator explained: “An ambulance was called for a two year old child in the Carraroe area who was having difficulty breathing.

“The family were told it was on its way, but when it was delayed they decided to bring the child in a car to Galway to meet the ambulance on its way out.

“They were joined by a Garda escort in Spiddal and eventually met the ambulance coming on its way to meet them in Rahoon, just minutes from the hospital.

“I understand that the child had to be resuscitated at least twice on the way in to hospital and is very lucky to be alive. He has since made a recovery, but had complications in hospital.”

Senator Ó Clochartaigh, who quit Sinn Féin in early December 2017, said that this case raises very serious issues about the deployment of ambulances in the region.

“Why did it take so long in the case of this emergency for the ambulance to reach this child?” he asked. “It was in the region of an hour before they reached the child and would have been closer to two hours if the family had not acted themselves.”

He continued: “Why was the ambulance only in Rahoon by the time the family got to Galway? Where had it been deployed from and why was there no ambulance available from the station at Carraroe, minutes from the child’s home. I understand there was at least one ambulance vehicle at that station at the time and there may have been two.

“We also need to question the protocols being used when people make emergency calls. Surely people should be told where an ambulance is coming from and how long it is expected to take. If there are other emergency responders available locally, surely they should be deployed as well?

“It is my understanding that the Fire Brigade in Carraroe were available at the time and could have responded much more quickly. They have two Emergency Medical Technicians and 7 Emergency First Responders and the appropriate equipment on their team and the Coast Guard station, with its expertise, is only minutes away as well.

“Two other cases have been brought to my attention in the recent past in Connemara where the outcomes have not been as positive and where delays in ambulance deployment are thought to have been factors in negative outcomes. This is simply unacceptable.

“I am calling on the Minister of Health Simon Harris to investigate this case and to review the nature and protocols of the emergency services available in the Connemara and other areas in general, to ensure that this type of inefficiency does not lead to further near misses, or tragedies.

“The staff in our emergency services and first responders do incredible work in very difficult situations, but we must ensure that we are using all of the emergency resources to their optimum advantage to ensure the best outcomes for patients in emergencies in all cases. I do not believe that is the case at present.’

GALWAY vs ROSCOMMON DEAD RUBBER TO GO AHEAD NEXT SUNDAY

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January 15, 2018

Leitrim v Galway - Connacht FBD League Section B Round 2 — 15 January 2017; Sean Armstrong of Galway in action against Conor Gallagher of Leitrim during the Connacht FBD League Section B Round 2 match between Leitrim and Galway at Sean O’Heslin Park in Ballinamore, Co Leitrim. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile

Galway and Roscommon will play their final Connacht FBD League group match next Sunday (21st January, 2pm Tuam Stadium) even though both have qualified for the decider in five weeks the Connacht Council have assisted.

Victory for Kevin Walsh’s charges and Roscommon over Mayo (0-14 to 0-11) have ensured Galway and Roscommon will compete in the final as both teams are uncatchable on six points.

There was hope in both camps that the fixture would be cancelled, or be played as the final, given the respective panels a break before the National Leagues commence seven days later. Munster doubled up their final league games as deciders with Cork beating Clare on Saturday in the McGrath Cup Final. And Limerick triumphing over the Banner in the Munster Hurling League.

This means neither squad will get a weekend off until March 11th as they are scheduled five league rounds either side of the Connacht FBD Final.

https://twitter.com/Emulkerrin/status/952859237792780288

Hard to see the point in playing dead rubber FBD League games next weekend, Galway to meet Roscommon in final round and in final on 18 Feb. Doubling up matches seemed to work in Munster over weekend in hurling and football finals.

— Fintan O'Toole (@fotoole13) January 15, 2018

Would be nice if Prenty and Co do the sensible thing for a change. No need playing that last Galway v Roscommon game as a group game make it the final #commonsense

— Ross4life (@Rossie4life) January 14, 2018

Galway were 3-6 to 0-8 winners on Sunday (14th January) against Leitrim in dreadful weather in Clonbur as two Dessie Conneely goals and a Frankie Burke penalty gave the Tribesmen the initiative as the led 3-3 to 0-7 at half-time.

The second period in incessant rain tested the resolve of both teams with Galway edging it 0-3 to 0-1 giving them their third victory, two days after Patrick Sweeney’s goal secured a 1-10 to 1-9 win against Mayo in MacHale Park.

“Whatever was in the legs of both sides seemed to be ran out in the first half,” said Galway manager Kevin Walsh to Galway Bay FM’s Kevin Dwyer after the game. “I think the score in the second half was only 0-3 to 0-1.

“Conditions were absolutely shocking. Fair play to the lads. It was hard to watch all day; the amount of ball been spilled and stuff. To be fair, you have to ask the question was it playable or not. There were no injuries. That’s the main thing.

“You’d be very conscious of today. Two days later (since Mayo game), there was no pulls and tears or anything like hamstrings or whatever. And mainly a new team today and a lot of lads did very well again in the conditions.

“It’s unfortunate that the weather conditions probably didn’t allow all of that (players expressing themselves) in the last three games. It’s been as bad as we’ve ever seen it. At the same time, you have to play these games and it’s where you might learn your trade.”

	Pld	W	D	L	F	A	Pts	Dif
ROSCOMMON	3	3	0	0	64	36	6	+28
GALWAY	3	3	0	0	43	31	6	+12
MAYO	3	0	1	2	39	42	1	-3
LEITRIM	3	0	1	2	27	48	1	-21
SLIGO	2	0	0	2	27	43	0	-16

Galway’s richest person revealed in weekend’s ‘Rich List’

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January 15, 2018

Galway Daily news Galway winner claims €50,000 in prize bonds draw

The richest person in Galway has been revealed after the Irish Independent published its ‘Rich List’ over the weekend.

The Comer brothers were revealed on the list as being Galway’s richest people once again, with an estimated net worth of €1.25bn, up 19% from 2017.

They sit at number 15 on the list, up one place from 2017.

The brothers, from Glenamaddy, made their money trading development sites and then by cracking the building game in Britain in the 1980s. They then cleared up property in Ireland after the crash.

The values of these sites and properties have risen, making the brothers the richest people from Galway.

Luke Comer (64), who is four years older than his brother Brian, lives in Monaco but returns to Ireland frequently.

Owner of Independent Media Denis O’Brien made the top ten, as did majority shareholder of Celtic FC Dermot Desmond.

Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary sits at 14 with an estimated net worth of €1.15bn.

Two weather warnings issued for Galway ahead of Arctic blast

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January 15, 2018

galway daily weather snow and ice warning issued for Galway

Met Éireann has issued status yellow warnings for snow/ ice and wind for Galway in effect from tonight until Wednesday morning.

Westerly winds will reach mean winds speeds of 50 to 65 km/h with gusts of 90 to 110km/h at times.

Winds will moderate for a time during Wednesday but further wind warnings likely for Wednesday night.

The wind warning is valid from tonight, Monday at 9:00pm to Wednesday at 3:00am.

Met Éireann says that there will be some sunny spells today with widespread showers, with some showers being heavier.
There is a risk of hail and sleet on higher ground in the north.

It will gradually turn colder through the day and temperatures will fall to between 4 and 8 degrees in the afternoon, with the coldest conditions in the north of the country.

Westerly winds will be fresh to strong and gusty, especially along Atlantic coasts combined with high seas may lead to coastal flooding today and tomorrow.

Met Eireann have issued a yellow weather warning for strong westerly winds with mean speeds of 50-65km/hr and gusts of 90-110km/hr for DL, G, MO, SO, CE, C, KY and L from 9pm tonight until 3am on Wednesday. Watch out for fallen debris and cross winds. pic.twitter.com/zwxZVACXpk

— RSA Ireland (@RSAIreland) January 15, 2018

Galway weather forecast for this week

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January 14, 2018

Tomorrow, Monday will be a cold and windy day with some bright spells and frequent, blustery showers, some of these heavy.

Highest afternoon temperatures of between 5 and 8 degrees in fresh to strong and gusty, westerly winds.

Rain will continue in many places through the first half of the night and will then clear to blustery showers later. Fresh to strong SW winds will become W in direction as the rain clears. Temps will be between 7 and 10°C for much of the night and will only start to fall by dawn. pic.twitter.com/hHVU0OHN53

— Met Éireann (@MetEireann) January 14, 2018

Tuesday is to be be another rainy day, with light showers forecast throughout the day which may ease in the early evening. Tuesady will be colder, with a high of 4 to 5 degrees and winds up to 50kmh.

More of the same is in store for Wednesday, with windy and rainy conditions forecast throughout the morning and into the afternoon. Temperatures are predicted to rise slightly on Wednesday night to 9 degrees, before falling again on Thursday morning.

Thursday and Friday will see more scattered showers, before finally clearing up on Friday evening.

MEP slams govt defence of withholding Aidan McAnespie report

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January 14, 2018

A Midlands–North-West MEP has hit out at the government after it defended its decision not to publish a report into the killing of a 23-year-old man by the British army almost 30 years ago.

Matt Cathy MEP took to Twitter to criticise the government, saying that its position is cowardly and shameful.

“The Irish government shamefully refuse to release information they have. It is a shameful & cowardly position,” the Sinn Féin MEP said.

Aidan McAnespie, who was a Sinn Féin election worker, was shot dead by the British army as he made his way to a GAA pitch 30 years ago, seconds after passing through an army checkpoint at Aughnacloy, Co Tyrone.

The Irish government asked Deputy Garda Commissioner Eugene Crowley to carry out an inquiry but his report has never been made public.

Aidan McAnespie was murdered by the British Army as he crossed the Monaghan Tyrone border to play in a GAA game. The Irish government shamefully refuse to release information they have. It is a shameful & cowardly position.https://t.co/r7kpiel08Y

— Matt Carthy MEP (@mattcarthy) January 14, 2018

GALWAY FALL SHORT IN NATIONAL CAMOGIE LEAGUE OPENER

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January 14, 2018