No hosepipe ban plans but public urged to conserve water

-

September 7, 2023

Galway Daily news girl injured by firework

Gardaí have seized €107,500 of controlled drugs and a firearm with ammunition, following a number of searches in Ennis, Co. Clare yesterday, Wednesday.

The searches were carried out by members attached to Clare Detective Units, Clare Community Engagement and the Western Region ASU.

During the course of these searches €87,000 of suspected cocaine, €15,000 of suspected amphetamine, €5000 of suspected xanax (2,500 tablets), €500 of suspected heroin and €1800 cash was seized.

A firearm and ammunition were also recovered. The drugs and firearm will be sent to Forensic Science Ireland for examination.

No arrests have been made so far in the investigation.

School bus service “not fit for purpose” says local TD

By

-

September 7, 2023

Galway Daily news Additional Dog fines will have little effect without more Dog Wardens

The school bus service is no longer fit for purpose and needs to be completely overhauled as a matter of urgency, a local TD has said.

Deputy Seán Canney has said that for a second year running, parents and students are left without school bus tickets and are only receiving notification of this as children prepare to go back to school.

He said students are again without tickets even though they received tickets in previous years.

The Independent Galway East TD said that he has had parents contacting him to say that whilst they have been issued with bus tickets, they are now being told that there is no bus or driver available.

“I have also learned that bus Éireann is cutting back the hours of their own drivers in favour of private operators despite a shortage of drivers.

“The Minister for Education has got to intervene and sort out this mess for hundreds of families. I understand that there is a review taking place, but this review is ongoing for nearly three years and in the meantime the situation is getting worse.”

Deputy Canney said we have instances where a school bus pulls up outside a family home to pick up students, but the family have no tickets for the bus.

“I also had the situation where Bus Éireann are cutting back drivers’ hours at a time they should be increasing them to deal with the demand. There are also instances where bus tickets have been issued, but there is no bus available.

“It is time for a change in attitude and for every child to be accommodated on a school bus. We now have full employment and parents need to have certainty in terms of school transport.

“The time has come for the Department to deliver in the long overdue review of the school transport system and put in place a system which will bring all students to school who need the service and maximise the use of the buses that are available.”

Paella for 2 and 2 glasses of sherry for €30 during Paella Week!

By

-

September 7, 2023

galway daily news paella day cava bodega

World Paella Day will be celebrated in Galway this year with a week of paellas being served at Cava Bodega, culminating in a tasting event on Sunday, 24 September.

The event celebrating Valencia’s most famous dish has been held internationally for the last five years, growing in popularity each year.

The diversity of paella dishes will be celebrated with a range of special paellas at Cava Bodega on Middle Street in Galway City.

During Paella Week, from 5pm to 7pm each evening, guests can enjoy a special paella for two, plus two glasses of sherry for €30.

Each day will have a different paella special, and guests can expect meat, chicken, vegetable or seafood paellas – and even chorizo.

On Sunday 24 from 4pm to 5pm, JP McMahon will be demo-ing how to cook paella and offering samples of seafood and oyster paella from a large paella pan outside Cava Bodega on Middle Street.

Setting up a traditional paella pan outside is a sight often seen in many regions of Spain, to entice passers-by into the restaurant with the delicious aromas.

JP hopes to interest those who have never tasted the dish before and convert them to this staple Valencian dish.

“Paella is such an integral part of Spanish cuisine and such a diverse dish that you can have numerous types and variations,” said JP.

“We of course will be using oysters and seafood for the dish in our Sunday afternoon demo and tasting outside Cava Bodega to mark The Galway Oyster Festival.”

New multisensory room officially opens at University of Galway

By

-

September 7, 2023

galway daily news multisensory room in university of galway — Adam Harris, founder and chief executive of AsIam, Ireland’s national autism charity, joined University of Galway’s Vice-President Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Dr Helen Maher and Izzy Tiernan University of Galway Student Union Vice-President for Welfare and Equality at the opening of the University’s new multi-sensory room for neurodivergent students. Photo Martina Regan

University of Galway’s new multisensory room officially opened this week, equipped with interactive and integrated lighting, visual, vibroacoustic and sound effects.

The room will have calming, stimulating, and integrated lighting, sound and vibroacoustic arrangements, for people to suit their sensory needs and unwind on comfortable furniture.

Soft furnishings and sensory stress-relieving items complete the experience, enabling students to feel regulated and supporting their engagement in college life.

Founder and chief executive of Ireland’s national autism charity AsIAm, Adam Harris, who officially opened the multisensory room on Tuesday, said that autistic people and other neurodivergent people face barriers to accessing education.

He said that these barriers are often invisible to others, but prevent the community from enjoying the same chance.

“Some 3.38% of children in school today now have an Autism diagnosis and there is also a significant increase in the number of adults accessing assessment,” said Mr Harris.

“It is so important that higher level education institutions are accessible for our community and that environmental barriers do not prevent students from thriving and contributing.

“AsIAm, Ireland’s National Autism Charity, is delighted to be working with HEIs across the country as part of our Autism Friendly HEI Award and we warmly congratulate the University of Galway on the launch of their sensory space – this investment will no doubt support more students to access the University, enrich the experience of those already enrolled and also act as an educational tool for all on campus in terms of understanding and accepting difference.”

University of Galway Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Helen Maher, said that inclusivity is a priority for the University to create equal opportunities and conditions for all, and we are focused on assisting those most in need.

“This space is part of University of Galway’s wider efforts to accommodate and make the campus more accessible for students with additional needs,” she said.

“We need to ensure that our students experience at University of Galway is an enjoyable and positive one, and accessibility and student involvement were key considerations throughout the design of this space.

“Universities can be a crowded and noisy environment which can impact learning and work, especially for neurodiverse students, so the aim of the new Multi-Sensory Room is to provide a safe space where users can relax and stimulate their senses in a controlled manner.”

The Irish players to follow in the Premier League this season

By

Thomas O'Brien

-

September 7, 2023

🚨 BREAKING: Burnley have officially confirmed the signing of Dara O’Shea from West Brom, with the centre-back costing a reported £7m. #twitterclarets #UTC pic.twitter.com/gB39uXbnj2

— TurfCast – Burnley FC Fan Channel (@TurfCastPodcast) June 23, 2023

While many of the locals in the city follow Galway United, it’s impossible to deny the allure of the Premier League. In fact, it’s the biggest competition around, with some of Ireland’s very own plying their trade for some of English football’s most prestigious clubs.

With the new season firmly underway, people with an interest in the beautiful game are assessing the competition and looking at the various new faces in the league. It’s important that fans who want to bet check out any Premier League odds ahead to make the most of the odds on display. Arsenal, for example, are set to win the league at 11/2, and are fine-tuning their fantasy football teams every week. This is a smart move given the various head-to-head battles that occur with any overly-confident friends throughout the season.

Likewise, for soccer lovers from Ireland, some talented professionals from the Emerald Isle will be hoping to develop further on the biggest domestic stage of all. Some of Ireland’s finest are turning out for sides down at the bottom of the table and could be in for a gruelling season. These are popular picks for fans looking at relegation odds Premier League, though there is plenty of Irish talent to keep tabs on during the season. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of Ireland’s finest who will be hoping to shine in the Premier League in the months ahead.

Burnley have a strong Irish contingent

A side that will be aiming to stay in the division come the end of the season, Burnley is home for a number of talented Irish players right now. Under the guidance of Manchester City legend Vincent Kompany, names like Michael Obafemi and Josh Cullen, will be hoping to kick even further on in their careers. Dara O’Shea, who signed from West Brom in the summer, is another Irish star with a seemingly bright future. Having already played 28 matches for the Baggies in the Premier League during the 2020/21 season, his experience could be vital for Burnley this season.

Brighton’s Evan Ferguson is already being linked with Manchester City

3 – In Erling Haaland, Son Heung-min, and Evan Ferguson, today is only the second time three different players have scored a Premier League hat-trick on the same day, after September 23rd, 1995 (Robbie Fowler, Alan Shearer, and Tony Yeboah). Magic. pic.twitter.com/jAb0q1Rhhe

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) September 2, 2023

A player who has already hogged the headlines, Bettystown’s very own, Evan Ferguson, is capable of making even more of name for himself this season. Following the former Bohemians player’s hat-trick in Brighton & Hove Albion’s 3-1 win against Newcastle United earlier in the season, the 18-year-old striker’s stock rose further as links to treble winners Manchester City began to emerge. Ferguson is one of Brighton’s main threats and he is clearly benefitting from the Seagulls’ expansive style that Roberto De Zerbi has taken up a level. For Republic of Ireland devotees, Ferguson is the next big hope and it’s easy to see why.

Matt Doherty is back at Wolves

A name many Irish fans might’ve forgotten about, Matt Doherty is out of the relative wilderness at Spurs, after his surprise January loan move to Atletico Madrid, and is back at a familiar club in Wolves. The attacking wing-back’s career has stagnated after a frankly disastrous move to London, leaving him open to a return to Wolverhampton and to play in front of a set of supporters who know him extremely well. Doherty might not be the player he was three years ago, but he’s at the perfect place to rediscover the sort of form that earned him the move to Spurs in the first place.

Weather warning issued as blistering temperatures forecast

By

-

September 6, 2023

Galway Daily news met eireann high temperature warning

Met Eireann has issued a status yellow weather warning for extremely high temperatures expected across the country on Thursday & Friday.

Temperatures are expected to reach as high as 27 degrees across much of the country over the next two days.

The High Temperature weather warning will be in effect from 8am on Thursday until 8am on Saturday.

“Very warm and humid weather on Thursday and Friday,” Met Eireann states in the alert.

“Daytime temperatures in excess of 27 degrees in many areas away from coasts with night time temperatures not falling below 15 degrees.”

The potential impacts of this weather include heat stress, uncomfortable sleeping conditions, and a greater risk of incidents on the water.

Galway to host major international Oceanographic Conference

By

-

September 6, 2023

Galway Daily news Galway to host major international Oceanographic Conference

Galway will play host to the 10th European Global Ocean Observing System (EuroGOOS) International Conference this October.

The conference, titled ‘European operational oceanography for the ocean we want – addressing the UN Ocean Decade Challenges’, will be held from October 3 – 5.

Held every three years, this oceanographic conference aims to facilitate dialogues around best practices, share knowledge and experience, and discuss future roadmaps with international partners and governmental stakeholders.

Experts in many fields from around the globe will attend, including ocean science observers, forecasters, technology developers, policy makers, data services, and users.

Glenn Nolan, Manager of Oceanographic Services at the Marine Institute, said, “We are delighted to welcome the 2023 EuroGOOS International Conference to Galway.”

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for international colleagues working across oceanography to connect and learn from one another”.

EuroGOOS brings together oceanographers, ocean forecasters, broader marine scientists, and governmental agencies, to ensure that ocean data collected and forecasts generated are fit for purpose for end users.

Those end users include maritime traffic, fishers, aquaculture producers, marine and maritime administration, search and rescue, and longer term monitoring for climate and European obligations.

Ireland, through the Marine Institute in Rinville has been a member of EuroGOOS since 2005, and supported EuroGOOS in its transition to becoming a legal entity in 2012.

The 10th EuroGOOS Conference will look at emerging priorities in oceanography; develop a seamless forecasting system of the European seas and global ocean; strengthen the scientific response to policy needs; integrate European oceanography into a global context; and more.

Michael Gillooly, Interim CEO of the Marine Institute noted, “We are delighted to be the local host of this very important conference”.

Registration is open until Monday 11 September 2023. The programme and registration information can be viewed here.

Teenager dies after fall from tractor in Tuam

By

-

September 6, 2023

Galway Daily news man dies in hospital following traffic collision

A teenager who was seriously injured after falling from a tractor near Tuam last week has passed in the early hours of this morning.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to a road traffic incident which occurred at Sylane in Tuam on the evening of Wednesday, August 30.

The incident occurred at approximately 7.40pm when a male teenager, 16 years, fell from a tractor.

He was taken to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where he received treatment for serious injuries.

The young man passed away during the early hours of this morning. A post-mortem examination will take place in due course.

Gardaí in Galway are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident or who may have video footage, to come forward to them.

Gardaí can be contacted at Tuam Garda Station 093 70840, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.

Galway County Culture Night 2023 programme announced

By

-

September 6, 2023

Galway Daily — Over 40 events are happening across Galway County on Culture Night, Friday 22 September including ‘Take a Walk with Crom'. Join Galway County Arts Office and Athenry Heritage and Arts Centre from 9pm as the wise and magnificent Crom to lurk around the medieval streets of Athenry alongside Macnas performers, stilt walkers and drummers who promise to entertain and enthrall all ages.

Culture Night invites everyone across Galway county to join in a national day of celebration this month, with dozens of amazing events.

More than 40 events in towns and villages across the county will create a magical spectacle on Friday, September 22.

Culture Night will bring communities together to revel in the vibrancy and diversity of culture in the county, all of it completely free of charge.

“Culture Night is a huge evening for the Arts Office with so many events to choose from all across the county”, says Sharon O’Grady, Galway County Arts Officer.

“Our venues and amazing culture groups have come out in force again this year so we will be encouraging everyone to take part and support all venues and fabulous free events happening in their communities.”

Multiple events including music, theatre, spectacle, visual arts, poetry, printmaking, photography, crafts and storytelling for all ages are happening throughout the day and late into the evening in a location near you.

Locations where events are being staged include Abbeyknockmoy, Athenry, Ballinasloe, Ballinderreen, Barna, Ceann Áras Fibín, Clarinbridge, Clifden, Gort, Headford, Inishbofin, Inverin, Loughrea, Newbridge, Oranmore, Roundstone and Tuam.

Step into the enchanting world of Macnas as they lead a captivating walk with Crom in Athenry.

This mesmerising spectacle, in collaboration with the Galway County Arts Office and Athenry Heritage and Arts Centre, promises an immersive journey filled with visual delights and auditory wonders, transporting attendees into a realm of imagination and creativity.

Celebrate the rich heritage and vibrant culture of the Traveller community at Ballinasloe Town Hall Theatre. Engage in photo exhibitions, workshops, showcases and performances, offering an authentic glimpse into Traveller culture.

Allow Sonic Strings, a dynamic teenage orchestra from Coole Music and Arts, to guide you along the scenic Gort River Walk with harmonious melodies that create an absolutely enchanting ambiance.

At Tuam Family Centre, experience a cross-cultural celebration as musicians from North Africa weave their melodies with the enchanting verses of Farsi Poetry.

Discover traditional craftsmanship at Gort Library, where artisan designers showcase activities from Aran stitching to felting, crochet and quilting, celebrating the artistry of these time-honored techniques.

Embark on a bilingual night of music and sean-nós singing in Loughrea at Leabharlann Bhaile Locha Riach, led by Professor Lillis Ó Laoire.

Celebrate Athenry’s vibrant cultural scene with captivating performances, culminating in ‘Lucht Siuil,’ a poignant tale from the Traveller Community.

Whether an arts enthusiast or new explorer, Culture Night offers a dynamic programme for all, weaving a tapestry of diverse stories, talents, and traditions.

Don’t miss the opportunity to join this national celebration on Friday, September 22nd. Embrace the beauty and power of culture night as we celebrate and connect #onenightforall

For full details of events happening for Culture Night near you visit CultureNight.ie.

Plans for new café in vacant shopping centre unit

By

-

September 6, 2023

Galway Daily news Green light for new café at vacant shopping centre unit

Planning permission is being sought to convert a vacant unit at Westside Shopping Centre into a new café.

The planning application by Westside Shopping Centre Ltd is for a change of the permitted use of Unit 5 out front from retail to café/restaurant.

The application states that the unit in question, which was most recently a laundry and dry cleaners, has experience “prolonged periods of vacancy” in recent years.

It also claims that there is “limited market demand for retail units at this location” and that having a café would bring “much needed life and animation” to the Seamus Quirke Road.

The intended occupant of the unit is Insomnia café and coffee shop chain, which first opened in Galway back in 1997.

A decision on this planning application is due from Galway City Council by October 26 of this year.

This is far from the only big change coming to Westside Shopping Centre, as last year the council approved plans for a major facelift of its façade.

The plans are for refurbishments to the southern and western facades of the building, where it’s public entrance is located.

These will consist primarily of new cladding and signage, as well as landscaping works in the existing car park.

Last year An Bord Pleanála also gave the go ahead for plans to build a 250 bed student accommodation development on the grounds of the shopping centre.

New Ali’s Irish Pale Ale from Hooked is the Reel Deal

By

-

September 6, 2023

Ali’s Irish Ale by Hooked is the name of the fantastic new beer that is sure to go down a treat with seafood lovers.

Brewed and canned onsite at Galway Hooker Brewery’s premises in Oranmore, and made with seafood very much in mind, it is an ideal accompaniment to any of the tantalising dishes you’re sure to find at one of Hooked’s locations on Henry Street and in Barna.

Galway Hooker Brewery is the oldest existing brewery in Connacht, and they have been crafting beers since 2006.

Ali’s Irish Ale is brewed by them in the traditional style of an India Pale Ale, and the beer is packed full of citrus and tropical fruit flavours.

The new beer is well suited to seafood, cured meats, or dessert dishes, and it’s the ideal choice on your visit to Hooked, where you can enjoy all manner of fresh seafood favourites like spicy-coated calamari, steamed Killary Harbour mussels, and spicy shrimp taco.

Ali’s Irish Ale is named in honour of Hooked owner and culinary entrepreneur Ali Jalilvand who began his sea-faring journey in Galway in 1981 when he arrived to become a fishmonger.

Today, some 42 years later, Ali owns multiple restaurants across Galway as well as a fish shop. He knows the seafood industry inside-out, and his restaurants have garnered acclaim from near and far, in addition to winning awards.

“At Hooked, Seafood isn’t just our business, it’s our passion, and crafting dishes that bring together the best of our region’s produce is a journey that is as exciting today as it was when we opened our first restaurant,” Nuisín Jalilvand, Hooked Managing Director, said.

“We are thrilled to have teamed up with Galway Hooker to craft our very own Hooked beer that perfectly complements our seafood dishes.”

“We have been captivating our customers with Ali’s Fish Market and our restaurant menus over the years, and the introduction of Ali’s Irish Ale perfectly aligns with our culinary vision. What’s more harmonious than the trio of fish, chips, and beer?”

Ali’s Irish Ale can be savoured at either one of the Hooked locations on Henry Street or in Barna, so why not make a reservation and grab your favourite seafood dish and a glass of Ali’s Irish Ale?

Temperatures to reach highs of 27 degrees in Galway this week

By

-

September 6, 2023

Galway Daily news Temperatures to reach highs of 27 degrees in Galway this week

Temperatures are forecast to soar to highs of 27 degrees in parts of Galway this week as we continue to enjoy the best spell of weather in months.

This week has been our first real spell of sunshine since early June, with temperatures well into the 20s across Galway.

The mercury is expected to hit 25 degrees easily on multiple days this week according to Met Eireann.

In some parts of Galway around the city it is even forecast to reach as high as 27 degrees on Thursday afternoon.

Today promises to be a sunny and dry day, with only a few patches of scattered cloud across other wise clear skies, and temperatures hitting highs of 23 – 25 degrees, with a light southerly breeze.

Thursday promises to be an even warmer day, with highest temperatures of 24 – 27 degrees in the afternoon, with a light variable breeze.

A dry but humid day, with some patches of cloud during the morning and afternoon, but clearest in the evening.

Friday promises to continue to be blisteringly hot, with temperatures again reaching highs of 25 – 27 degrees, and clear sunny skies throughout the day.

Don’t expect any relief from the wind, as only a very gentle variable breeze is expected in Galway on Friday.

Headed into the weekend temperatures will begin to fall once again, with rain showers, heavy at time, making their return on Sunday and into next week.

Irish Medtech Awards 2023 coming to Galway

By

-

September 6, 2023

Galway Daily news Annual BiG BANG networking event taking place in Galway City — The Galmont Hotel

The annual Irish Medtech Awards will be held in Galway later this year, with applications for the nine categories now open.

The Irish Medtech Association, the Ibec group that represents the medtech sector, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland have launched ‘Medtech Rising: The Business leaders’ conference and Awards 2023’.

Medtech Rising is the leading event of its kind bringing together business leaders, and international experts, to help Ireland’s global hub get ahead of the latest trends.

The 2023 conference and awards will take place at the Galmont Hotel in Galway on December 7.

Dr Eoghan Ó Faoláin, Irish Medtech Association, Deputy Director, said, “The medtech industry plays a vital role in saving and transforming lives.”

“Medtech Rising is an incomparable opportunity to gather as an industry to get ahead of the latest trends with the ‘Business Leaders’ Conference’, as well as celebrate the success of the sector here with the ‘Irish Medtech Awards’.”

Ireland has become a global hub for the medtech sector, with a very strong presence in Galway.

There are more than 450 medtech companies active in Ireland, employing more than 48,000 people around the country and creating €13 billion in exports.

“Our vision will be to strongly position Ireland as a global leader in innovative patient centred medical technology solutions, helping to set the future global healthcare agenda, with a proven ecosystem that is a major contributor to the economy,” Eoghan Ó Faoláin saod.

“We believe that with the right supports and policies in place Ireland’s global medtech hub can shape the future of healthcare and strengthen its international position.”

Garrett Murray, Enterprise Ireland, Head of Lifesciences, says that the conference is a chance for the entire medtech community to meet and share best practices.

“The Irish Medtech Awards not only gives recognition to the companies in Ireland, but winning an Irish Medtech Award is a wonderful achievement to market internationally to investors and customers.”

“Events like Medtech Rising provide an opportunity to highlight the exciting innovation and R&D happening in Ireland.”

“Supporting medtech companies to scale is central Enterprise Ireland’s strategy, ‘Leading in a Changing World 2022-2024’.”

“Ireland is a big player in this sector globally and Enterprise Ireland supported companies have even greater ambition for the future”.

Applications for the Irish Medtech Awards 2023 can be made online. The full list of categories for the awards are:

Medtech Company of the Year Award
Emerging Medtech Company of the Year Award
Collaboration in Medtech Award
Medtech Partner/Supplier of the Year Award
Digital Health Innovation of the Year Award
Best Diversity and Representation Company Initiative Award
Best Talent Strategy in Medtech Award
Best Process-Product Innovation in Medtech Award
Sustainable Medtech Company of the Year Award

Preparing for Winter Time at Home – Best Entertainment and Games

By

Thomas O'Brien

-

September 6, 2023

Winter is ideal for staying warm at home and taking in some indoor entertainment. Whether you’re searching for something enjoyable to do with your family or a method to unwind, you will find something to do. Do not let the chill of winter deny the joy of creating memories, as that is what life is meant to be. In this post, you’ll learn some of the significant games and entertainment for the winter.

Online Casino Adventures: Winter’s best indoor entertainment

Online casinos like Ice Casino Ireland offer a thrilling escape when the weather outside turns chilly. Remember also to check the Ice Casino review to understand more about the platform. You can transform your living space into a virtual gaming paradise with classic games like poker, blackjack, roulette and various slot machines. Customize the experience with personalized chips and cards for an authentic touch.

Set the ambience with soft lighting, comfortable seating and some background casino music for an immersive experience. Remember to establish limits to ensure your entertainment remains enjoyable without negative consequences. Online casinos offer various options, making finding something that suits your preferences easy. Looking at casino reviews like the Ice Casino review can be a cosy winter activity that brings excitement to your home.

Board games and puzzles for family fun

Winter nights are tailor-made for cosy family bonding. Board games are a fantastic option to enjoy time together as a family in winter. Classics like chess and cards provide engaging challenges for all ages, fostering healthy competition and strategic thinking. For solo adventurers, puzzles offer a rewarding mental exercise.

Modern board games like Codenames introduce new dynamics and encourage teamwork. Whether competing or collaborating, board games bring warmth and joy to winter evenings and create cherished moments.

Netflix and Chill

Embracing the winter chill can be enjoyable by curating a list of binge-worthy TV shows and movies. Streaming platforms offer a treasure trove of options, from gripping dramas to heartwarming comedies. You can explore seasonal favourites or delve into classic films that evoke the magic of winter.

Consider hosting virtual watch parties with friends and family to share the experience. Prepare cosy snacks and beverages to complete the cinematic adventure. This selection can bring out a memorable experience out of the winter chill.

Winter Reads

Winters are good times to enjoy reading books around fireplaces. The good side is that you can choose books ranging from novels to thought-provoking non-fiction. Engrossing mystery novels or heartwarming romance stories can transport you to different worlds, providing an escape from the winter cold.

Consider creating a reading list with diverse authors and themes to enrich the experience. Set aside dedicated time for reading, allowing yourself to get lost in the pages. A good book and a crackling fire make for a perfect winter evening.

DIY home projects

Turn the winter season into a productive and fulfilling period by engaging in DIY home projects. You can do many projects, for example, crafting handmade decor or tackling small home improvements. You can also repaint a room, build custom furniture or create unique artwork to infuse your space with warmth and personality.

Engaging in DIY projects enhances your living environment and provides a sense of accomplishment. It’s a wonderful way to stay productive and creative during winter. The satisfaction of seeing your creations come to life adds an extra layer of joy to the season.

Conclusion

Winter is a season for remaining warm and taking part in indoor pursuits. There is something for everyone. Whether you want to explore the world of online casinos, board games and puzzles, favourite TV episodes or movies, you can make your winter experience memorable. Casino reviews such as the Ice Casino Review will enlighten you about the options available to enhance your winter experience. Make the most of your time at home in winter by embracing the season with these entertaining ideas.

National Ambulance Service decontamination demonstration taking place at UHG

By

-

September 5, 2023

The National Ambulance Service will be carrying out a demonstration on clinical decontamination for staff at UHG tomorrow, but hospital services will not be impact.

The clinical decontamination team will set up a tent and provide a full demonstration on clinical decontamination to the staff at UHG on Wednesday morning.

Decontamination is essential for people who have been involved in an emergency that involved potential exposure to a chemical hazard.

Clinical decontamination may have to be carried out at the hospital for patients who self-present and haven’t been decontaminated at the site of the emergency.

The demonstration will take place outside the Emergency Department entrance from 11:00 to 13:00 on Wednesday.

There will be additional ambulance vehicles, personnel and a decontamination tent on site for the purposes of the exercise.

There will be no impact to services at the hospital or at the National Ambulance Service during this time and people should attend for their appointments as scheduled.

Retained firefighters vote to accept WRC proposals to end industrial dispute

By

-

September 5, 2023

Galway Daily news Retained firefighters vote to accept WRC proposals to end industrial dispute

Retained Firefighters with SIPTU have voted to accept proposals from the Workplace Relations Commission to bring an end to their industrial dispute.

The announcement today follows after intensive consultation among the union last week, and a secret ballot carried out today.

Strikes by some 2,000 retained firefighters have seen many stations closed as part-time firefighters took to the picket lines.

The strike action over pay and staffing levels was suspended last month when talks began at the WRC.

With the acceptance of the WRC proposals, new Retained firefighter recruits will now enter service with guaranteed fixed minimum earnings of over €18,000.

Those with eight years of service will see their guaranteed earnings rise to over €21,000. Station officers will have secure minimum earnings of between €27,400 and €31,730.

Firefighters are also now required to be available for 24 weeks a year, down from 48 weeks, with the voluntary option to be available more often.

Karan O Loughlin, SIPTU Divisional Organiser, said, “This has been a protracted battle to bring the poor terms and conditions for retained fire fighters into the public domain and to begin the process of rebuilding the Retained Fire Service.”

She added that while today’s vote to accept WRC proposal ends the current strike, it does not end the fight for improved conditions.

“The WRC document is the beginning of the next stage for the Retained Fire Fighters. SIPTU representatives will be writing immediately to the employers and to the minister.”

“We will advise of the acceptance of the document and seek to engage in discussions in respect of the retainer and the rollout of the WRC terms, especially those clauses that relate to recruitment, pay and time off. ”

Commenting on the result of the SIPTU ballot Minister O’Brien said, “I welcome the decision of the Retained Fire Fighters to accept the recommendations of the Workplace Relations Commission.

“I want to thank them and their representatives for their constructive engagement with the Local Government Management Agency. I also want to thank the WRC for their efforts in bringing about a resolution to this dispute.”

Use of speed cameras to increase in response to road deaths

By

-

September 5, 2023

Galway Daily news Increase in use of speed cameras on roads

The use of speed cameras on the roads is set to increase by 20 percent in response to a rising number of road deaths recently.

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris have agreed to provide an additional €1.2 million in funding for GoSafe.

This will provide an additional 1,500 hours of monitoring by GoSafe speed cameras per month until the end of this year.

“We have all been shocked by recent loss of life on our roads, and concerned by the worrying increase in road fatalities this year after many years of progress in making our roads safer,” Minister McEntee said.

“I have been discussing the issue with Commissioner Harris and Minister Chambers and this additional funding will be used to increase the number of speed cameras in operation on our roads.

“Enforcement and deterrence are key for increasing road safety, but they must also be accompanied by greater education and awareness raising, as well as looking at what more we can do across Government to bring down the number of deaths on our roads.”

To date there have been 127 people killed on Irish roads this year, 23 more than the same period 2022, and 38 more than in 2019.

One in Five of all road deaths so far this year occurred in the month of August, and one in three of all victims were under the age of 25.

Gardaí conducted a 24 hours road safety operation which came to an end this morning.

The nationwide Slow Down Day saw well over 800 drivers caught speeding, and more than 140,000 vehicles checked by GoSafe cameras.

Notable examples of speeding caught in Galway over the course of the day include a driver doing 73km/h in a 50km/h zone on Church Street, Ballinasloe, and another doing 141km/h in a 120km/h zone on the M6 at An Carn Mór Thiar, Oranmore.

“We all have a role to play in reducing road deaths,” Minister McEntee said. “Drivers must understand that every time they take to the road, they have a responsibility to themselves, their passengers and other road users, to drive safely.”

“This means wearing a seat belt, keeping off the mobile phone, driving at a speed that’s appropriate to the road conditions and within the speed limit, and not driving when under the influence of drink or drugs.”

“For the Government’s part, we can and will do more on enforcement, education, and awareness-raising, as well as looking at what more we can do across Government to bring down the number of deaths on our roads.”

Mixed results for Galway beaches in latest IBAL litter survey

By

-

September 5, 2023

Mixed results for Galway beaches in latest IBAL litter survey — Beach at Dog's Bay, Co. Galway. Photo by Nick Macneill

Two Galway beaches were noted for their cleanliness in the latest IBAL litter survey, while Dog’s Bay Beach in Connemara has degraded.

Three beaches in Galway were surveyed out of 33 nationwide in the latest annual survey of coasts and inland waterways by Irish Business Against Litter.

Salthill and Lough Rea beaches were both declared ‘Clean to European Norms’, while Dog’s Bay Beach was found to be ‘Littered’.

Beaches, harbours, rivers and their immediate environs were monitored by An Taisce in June and July.

While there was a 50% rise in clean sites overall, the survey again found our coastal areas to be more littered than our towns, which IBAL researches as part of its Anti-Litter League programme.

“Over an unsettled summer, where our beaches attracted far fewer numbers than normal, one might have expected the majority to be virtually free of litter,” says Conor Horgan of IBAL.

“Unfortunately, this does not reflect the state of our coastal environment. There is much ‘long lie’ litter and waste coming in from the sea, and this is compounded by litter from those who continue to frequent our coastline despite the inclement weather.”

There was little decline in the amount of cigarette butts, sweet wrappers, fast food wrapping and plastic bottles despite the lack of beach weather.

Coffee cups were also found at almost half of the sites surveyed, and disposable vapes have become a new scourge, turning up at 1 in 7 of visits.

“This time last year we were not seeing this form of litter at all, so its rapid emergence is worrying. So, too, is its impact on our environment,” warns Conor Horgan.

IBAL favours the banning of disposable vapes, which, it contends, run counter to the notion of a circular economy. Vapes contain electronics, chemical waste and single-use plastic which breaks down into microparticles, endangering sea life.

“At a time when we are urgently trying to reduce plastic pollution in our oceans, the emergence of vapes is concerning.”

IBAL credits the Clean Coasts programme, which supports over 2,000 volunteer groups, as a major force in ridding our coasts of litter throughout the year.

Its annual ‘Big Beach Clean’ takes place nationwide each September. The continued rise in volunteer groups, now in excess of 40,000, reflects the growing public concern around the marine environment.

Music for Galway launches 42nd international concert season

By

-

September 5, 2023