New Opinion Poll shows just one point separating Fine Gael and Fianna Fail

Dec 10, 2019

Power restored in Westport area following high winds

Power supplies have now been restored in the Westport area, following high winds overnight. Over two and half thousand customers were impacted by faults this morning, and ESB Networks have responded. It appears the majority of households and businesses in the…

Dec 10, 2019

ESB fault leaves many without an electricity supply in Westport this morning

Hundreds of households and businesses in the Westport area lost power this morning. A number of faults occurred in the area, leaving customers without a supply since about 20 to eight this morning, that service is set to be restored about 11.15am. While other…

Dec 10, 2019

Status Yellow Wind Warning in place until 4pm this afternoon

A status yellow wind warning has been issued for the entire country. Met Eireann says there will be some severe and damaging gusts with heavy spells of rain. It's valid for all 26 counties until four o'clock this afternoon.

Dec 10, 2019

Farmers continue campaign for higher beef prices today in Kildare

Farmers are continuing their campaign for higher beef prices with a protest in Kildare this morning. The Irish Farmers' Association has blockaded the Musgraves Central Distribution Centre in Kilcock. It follows a similar demonstration in Dublin yesterday, as…

Dec 10, 2019

Two rivers and two lakes in Galway among the "worst of the worst" in latest EPA report on Water Quality

The quality of water in Irish rivers is getting worse, according to an Environmental Protection Agency report. Roughly half of the country's coastal waters, rivers and lakes have unacceptable levels of pollution. The report found just 20 rivers have pristine…

Dec 10, 2019

Cathaoirleach calls for significant increase in the number of gardai assigned to Mayo Drugs Unit

There is an urgent need for at least a doubling of the number of gardai assigned to the Mayo Garda drugs unit, that’s the view of the Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District Michael Kilcoyne. The Cathaoirleach expressed his view at the county Joint…

Dec 09, 2019

Glenamaddy man fatally injured in road collision in USA

The Glenamaddy area of Co Galway has been saddened by the death of a local man in a road collision in the USA at the weekend. Stephen Conneely from Shannagh, Glenamaddy died in a road accident on Saturday. Mr Conneely, who was in his mid-30's, emigrated to…

Dec 09, 2019

Councillor Gerry Murray walks out of council meeting in Castlebar

The monthly meeting of Mayo County Council is underway in Castlebar, but Sinn Fein Councillor Gerry Murray walked out of the meeting within the first hour. It followed heated debate about last Monday's Budget meeting of Mayo County Council, when the 2020…

Dec 09, 2019

Post-mortem to be carried out on man found dead in his car in Charlestown

A post-mortem examination is being carried out on the body of a man who was found dead in his car in Charlestown in the early hours of this morning. Gardai have confirmed that a 69-year old man, from the Ballymote area of Co Sligo, was found dead in his car…

Dec 09, 2019

Castlebar Gardai appeal for information on missing woman

Gardai in Castlebar are appealing for information on a young woman missing since Saturday. 29-year old Rachel Dervin, originally from Ballina, has been missing from the Castlebar area since Saturday and her family are concerned for her welfare. Rachel is…

Dec 09, 2019

Free parking from 2pm each day in Claremorris & Ballinrobe from 13-24 December

Shoppers in both Claremorris and Ballinrobe can enjoy free parking in the afternoons from this Friday. Mayo County Council has confirmed that parking on the streets and in the council car parks in both towns will be free, from 2pm each afternoon from this…

Dec 09, 2019

Ballina Arts Centre appeals for more funding, or may have to close

Ballina Arts Centre looks set to close its doors, or be forced to reduce its output, unless an additional €35,000 in funding can be secured next year from its 3-tier funding backers - the Arts Council, Mayo County Council and the Ballina Municipal District.…

Dec 09, 2019

Traffic reduced to one lane on N5 between Frenchpark and Ballingare due to roadworks

Castlerea gardai are advising motorists that traffic along the N5 between Frenchpark and Ballinagare is reduced to one lane from today until Sat the 21st of December. A fully manned traffic management system is in place from 8am to 5pm daily. Road Signage is…

Dec 09, 2019

First ever national Blue Light Summit to take place in Breaffy in March 2020

The first ever, national seminar and exhibition for those involved in emergency services will take place in 2020, at Breaffy House Hotel in Castlebar. Called the Bluel Light Summit, participants will include professionals and volunteers involved in emergency…

Dec 09, 2019

Householders advised to put fake presents under the Christmas Tree

Gardaí are advising householders across the region to put fake presents under their Christmas trees. They say anyone who feels their house is vulnerable to burglars should use dummy presents, rather than risk having expensive toys and devices stolen. Gardaí…

Dec 09, 2019

IFA blockade another supermarket distribution centre over beef prices

Farmers have blockaded the biggest supermarket distribution centre in Ireland as part of an ongoing dispute over beef prices. The protest at the Tesco centre in Donabate in north county Dublin is due to last for 12 hours and follows similar demonstrations at…

Dec 09, 2019

Trees and debris on roads reported in western counties in the aftermath of Storm Atiyah

There are no reports so far this morning, of any injuries or serious damage caused by Storm Atiyah that hit along western counties yesterday and overnight last night. The fastest gusts recorded at 8pm last night were 109km/h recorded at Newport, county Mayo…

Dec 08, 2019

Westport Councillor calls on CEO of Mayo County Council to engage with Councillors

Westport based Fine Gael councillor Peter Flynn says he’s frustrated with the level of engagement between elected councillors and the CEO of Mayo County Council Peter Hynes in terms of strategic planning for the county. He raised the issue at the 2020 budget…

Dec 08, 2019

Castlebar Gardai to hold a public meeting to combat fraud on Tuesday

With a busy festive season in trade now in full swing, Local Business Watch in Castlebar is organising a meeting next week in an attempt to combat fraud. There have been a number of reported incidents of fraud reported to the gardai over recent weeks in the…

Dec 08, 2019

GMIT Castlebar offers Digitalisation course for small business owners

GMIT Mayo is offering a Certificate in Digitalisation for small to medium enterprises across the county. The Digital Media Technologies and Marketing for small business course is a yearlong certificate starting in January 2020. It aims to give small business…

Dec 08, 2019

Mayo RSA advise motorist to avoid succumbing to parking rage

Mayo's road safety officer claims the run-up to Christmas brings on car parking rage. With the Christmas shopping season underway, road safety officer for Mayo County Council Noel Gibbons claims car parking spaces are in hot demand at this time of year, but…

Dec 08, 2019

Kiltimagh Amenity Park Group make financing a walking route a priority

The local community in Kiltimagh has successfully raised €150,000 as a local contribution, for an ambitious Amenity Park project in the town. A 6-acre site just off the town's Main Street has been purchased with the money raised, and members of the local…

Dec 08, 2019

Galway historian calls for an exhumation of remains from Tuam Mother and Baby Home

A County Galway historian has made a Christmas appeal to the Government to reunite families with the remains of babies buried at the Tuam Mother and Baby Home. Catherine Corless compiled the research which led to the discovery of a mass grave at the former…

Dec 08, 2019

Mayo GAA threaten legal action against millionaire benefactor Tim O'Leary, citing defamation

The Mayo GAA funding saga continues as officers of the county board threaten legal action against millionaire benefactor Tim O'Leary. The board has rejected a request from O'Leary for the return of €150,000 he donated last year. A letter seen by Midwest Radio…

Dec 07, 2019

Castlebar to revive Christmas tradition in aid of the Mayo Roscommon Hospice

Castlebar is reviving an old Christmas tradition this year, that had been lost for some years now, in an effort to raise funds for the Mayo Roscommon Hospice. The Waits , started almost 150 years ago in Castlebar, was a group of people walking through the…

Dec 07, 2019

Senator calls for Departmental co-operation to allow plebiscite on the spelling of Enniscrone

Two Government departments need to come together and sort out technical and legal issues, before a plebiscite can be held on the spelling of Enniscrone in Co Sligo. That's according to Roscommon-based FG Senator Frank Feighan, who raised the matter in the…

Dec 07, 2019

Sligo Councillor claims there is a three-tier health system in Ireland

A Sligo Councillor claims there's a 3-tier health system operating in this country. People who have health insurance or a medical card are treated differently from those who have neither, according to Fianna Fail Councillor Donal Gilroy. Speaking at a recent…

Dec 07, 2019

Christmas lights to be turned on at Tuam Mother and Baby Home this afternoon

The Christmas tree lights at the site of the former Mother and Baby Home in Tuam will be officially switched on this afternoon at 3.30pm. Everyone is welcome to come along, and acknowledge the women and babies who lived and died at the home, according to…

Dec 07, 2019

Both drivers and passengers taken to hospital in N17 collision yesterday

Emergency services attended the scene of a two vehicle collision on the N17 at 6:30 yesterday evening. The road was closed for an hour near Boherduff as Gardai and Fire brigade personnel cleared the road. Midwest News understands that both drivers and…

Dec 06, 2019

Irish Distillery Graduate Programme seeks students from the Midwest

Irish Distillers is looking for graduates in this region to join the 2020/21 Jameson International Graduate Programme. Now in its 28th year, the Jameson International Graduate Programme provides an opportunity to work in one of over 50 countries across the…

Dec 06, 2019

Sligo University Hospital launches app to prepare children for surgery

Sligo University Hospital has launched a new app to help children prepare for surgery, and reduce their anxiety before having to stay in hospital. The "Little Journey" virtual reality app provides 360-degree views of all the areas children will visit in the…

Dec 06, 2019

Westport House to host three-day music festival in summer 2020

Westport is set for a big economic boost this summer as the new Saltwater festival comes to the grounds of Westport House on the June Bank Holiday Weekend. The brand new festival is set to become the Mayo equivalent of Bundoran’s Sea Sessions and will…

Dec 06, 2019

Castlebar and Belmullet win at the Bank of Ireland National Enterprise Town Awards

Castlebar and Belmullet both enjoyed success last night at the Bank of Ireland National Enterprise Town Awards in Kilkenny. Castlebar scooped the prestigious Rising Star accolade in recognition of the town's commitment to community, retail and tourism…

Dec 06, 2019

Orange Wind alert for eight western counties as Storm Atiyah approaches

An orange weather alert has been issued for eight counties as Storm Atiyah heads our way. Met Éireann says the system will track between Iceland and Ireland on Sunday bringing very strong winds and the possibility of coastal flooding. Mayo, Galway, Sligo,…

Dec 06, 2019

IFA blockading Lidl distribution centre in Charleville this morning

The Irish Farmers' Association is blockading the Lidl distribution centre in Charleville, Co. Cork this morning. It comes after yesterday's protest at the Aldi distribution centre in Naas, Co. Kildare, where farmers picketed for 12 hours. Meat Industry…

Dec 06, 2019

Ballinrobe is not a disability friendly town claims local councillor

Ballinrobe in not a disability friendly town with poor access on footpaths for people in wheelchairs and with prams. That's the view of local Fine Gael councillor Patsy O'Brien. He raised the issue at the monthly Claremorris/ Swinford Municipal District and…

Dec 06, 2019

Ballina man, whose son died by suicide, hits out at the pre-Christmas advertisements for cheap alcohol

A Ballina man, whose son died by suicide, has hit out at the pre-Christmas advertisements for cheap alcohol, as supermarkets vie with each other to see who can provide the best value. TV, radio, print and social media are currently running campaigns for cheap…

Dec 05, 2019

IFA President says further blockades could take place before Christmas unless beef prices increase

Beef farmers from across the region are among the IFA members continuing to blockade Aldi's main distribution centre in Naas, Co. Kildare this evening. The German retailer says it received no request for engagement from the Irish Farmers' Association, before…

Dec 05, 2019

Mayo TD welcomes decision to delay proposed new cuts for pharmacies

The Government has agreed to delay new cuts for community pharmacists, which were due to come into effect in the New Year. The proposed cutbacks would have removed €45 million from pharmacies, on top of cuts made during the recession. Mayo Fianna Fail TD Dara…

Dec 05, 2019

New figures show over 300 people were homeless in Galway in October

302 people were recorded as homeless in Galway in October. Figures published by the Department of Housing also show that in the rest of the western region, 34 were recorded as homeless in Mayo and four in Roscommon during the period. Meanwhile, there was an…

Dec 05, 2019

Farmers blockade Aldi Facility in Nass this morning over Beef Prices

One of the country's largest retail distribution centres is being blockaded by farmers in a protest over beef prices. The Irish Farmers' Association has begun a 12 hour protest outside the Aldi nationwide warehouse in Naas, blocking access to delivery trucks.…

Dec 05, 2019

Councillor says there is problem with the misuse of drones in the Foxford area

The misuse of drones in the Foxford area is going to be highlighted at tomorrow’s Mayo Joint Policing Committee meeting. Fine Gael Councillor Neil Cruise raised the matter at yesterday’s Claremorris/Swinford Municipal District as he wanted to know what…

Dec 05, 2019

Roscommon TD welcomes Government decision to back down on new laws which could have closed bingo halls

The Government has backed down on a new law that critics say would have caused bingo halls to close around the country. Last night all parties in the Dáil passed a Sinn Fein amendment to the Gaming and Lotteries Bill. It increases the cap on prize money given…

Dec 05, 2019

Status Yellow wind warning in place across Mayo this morning

A Status Yellow Wind Warning is in place across County Mayo this morning and will remain in place until 6pm this evening. Met Eireann say there will be Mean speeds of 50 to 65 km/hr with gusts of 90-100km/h.

Dec 04, 2019

Galway's Lorraine Walsh resigns from CervicalCheck steering committee

Galway woman Lorraine Walsh says she resigned as a patient representative on the cervical check steering committee, due to questions she had over the accuracy of the report released into the controversy. She says she's "upset and concerned", and stepped down…

Dec 04, 2019

Contracts signed for €3.1 million Mary Robinson Centre in Ballina, with work to start tomorrow

Construction work is to start tomorrow on the new Mary Robinson Centre on the banks of the River Moy in Ballina. Mayo County Council has confirmed that the contract for the €3.1 million museum, archive and educational facility has been signed with Mayo-based…

Dec 04, 2019

€180,000 allocated to support development companies on Clare Island & Inishturk

Funding of almost €180,000 has been allocated for two Mayo islands. The Minister with responsibility for the islands Sean Kyne has approved over €92,000 for Clare Island and €86,300 for Inishturk. The funding is part of a Government investment of over half a…

Dec 04, 2019

HSE says proposal to use Rosalie Unit as CAMHS has been submitted to Dept of Health for consideration

The HSE has responded to a query from Midwest News in relation to the closure of the Rosalie Unit in Castlerea, as the final two residents are being transferred today to Aras Máthair Pól - a community nursing home in the town. There are 24 staff employed at…

Dec 04, 2019

Today marks 19th anniversary of the disappearance of Mayo woman Sandra Collins

Today marks the 19th anniversary of the disappearance of Mayo's Sandra Collins, and her family are again appealing to anyone with information to come forward so they can bring her home for burial. Originally from Fotish, Crossmolina, Sandra - who was 29 at…

Dec 03, 2019

IFA President 'disappointed' to leave Taskforce meeting without beef price increase

The Irish Farmers Association says it's disappointed to walk away from today's Beef Market Taskforce meeting without a price increase for beef farmers. The group called for an immediate and significant price increase to the amount they are being paid for beef…

Dec 03, 2019

Galway TD says new pension system makes no difference for many affected by 2012 cuts

The new system introduced to reverse the 2012 cuts in State pension have not made a significant difference for many of the people affected-that's according to Galway West TD Eamon O'Cuiv. The Fianna Fail TD claims some people lost over €50 per week due to the…

Dec 03, 2019

A man has been airlifted to hospital following a single vehicle RTC on the N26

A man has been airlifted to hospital following a single car road traffic collision has occurred on the N26 near Tullybawn. A stop go system has been put in place on the Ballina Foxford road. Emergency services are at the scene and a man has been airlifted to…

Dec 03, 2019

New car registrations in Mayo down over 10% on this time last year

2019 continues to be a disappointing year for the Irish motor industry, with new car registrations since January down 7% on the same period last year - according to a new report from the Society for the Irish Motor Industry. New car sales in Mayo and Galway…

Dec 03, 2019

Minister Ring approves over €118,000 for Mayo sports hubs and partnerships

Funding of over €118,000 has been approved today under the Dormant Accounts Fund for sports hubs and other sporting programmes in Co Mayo, according to the Minister for Rural & Community Development Michael Ring. €35,000 has been approved for the Ballinrobe…

Dec 03, 2019

Rosalie Unit in Castlerea to close tomorrow, as final two residents are being transferred to other facilities

The battle to save the Rosalie Unit in Castlerea is over, as the last two residents are being moved out tomorrow. A campaign has been ongoing over the past five years to retain the unit, which accommodates people with dementia and other mental health…

Dec 03, 2019

Man released without charge following alleged assault in Connemara - file to DPP

A man in his 70's who was arrested on Sunday following an alleged assault in Connemara has been released without charge. A post-mortem examination has been carried out on a 64-year old man who died following the alleged incident. It's reported that deceased…

Dec 03, 2019

4 percent commercial rate hike in Mayo is a "hammer blow" for businesses, according to Cllr

Yesterday Mayo county council increased the commercial rate for businesses across the county in 2020 by 4 percent, and according to the Fine Gael Whip on the local authority Peter Flynn it’s a hammer blow to local businesses. He says it will impact directly…

Dec 03, 2019

Business All-Star accreditation for Mayo based Clinic

A new county Mayo based business has achieved a quality mark signifying that it meets the highest standards of service and trust.Laura Kinsella of LMK Skin with clinics in Castlebar and Westport was awarded the All-Ireland Lifestyle Leader in Aesthetics…

Dec 03, 2019

R312 Road Action Committee members given plenty of political promises for upgrade of Erris to Castlebar Road - but not delivered

A six year community campaign to get the R312 road, the road that links Erris to Castlebar upgraded, has yielded little more than undelivered political promises. That’s according to the R312 Road Action Group Chairman Brendan Lavelle. The road was given…

Dec 03, 2019

Roscommon and Galway Independent deputies support is crucial in Dail Vote of Confidence tonight

The Housing Minister faces a motion of no-confidence in the Dáil this evening. The Social Democrats moved the motion saying Eoghan Murphy has failed to get to grips with the housing crisis. The government will need the support of several independents in order…

Dec 03, 2019

Fees to attend minor injury units look set to be reduced

Fees to attend minor injury units, a facility available at Roscommon University Hospital, are expected to be cut by 25 euro as part of new measures to control the trolley crisis. The Health Minister Simon Harris is to introduce the plans as a way to convince…

Dec 03, 2019

The Beef Market Taskforce to meet this morning

The Beef Market Taskforce is to meet this morning. It was due to meet in October but was called off due to protests, while last week hundreds of farmers took to the streets of Dublin - grinding parts of the city centre to a halt. Farmers and representatives…

Dec 02, 2019

Ballyhaunis emigrant donates thousands of dollars for outdoor gym equipment in the Friary Field

A Ballyhaunis emigrant in America has donated $10,000 dollars towards outdoor gym equipment in his native town. Pat Mulligan from Devlis, Ballyhaunis and his wife Norma, who live in San Francisco, also gave a previous allocation of $5,000 dollars towards the…

Dec 02, 2019

2020 Budget agreed for Mayo County Council with 4% rates increase but no reduction in GMA funding

Mayo County Councillors have agreed the 2020 Budget, at a third Budget meeting this afternoon. There was considerable discussion last week as the council executive sought a 3% increase in rates, while proposing to cut the GMA funding - the General Municipal…

Dec 02, 2019

49 new Garda graduates being stationed across the North West region, but none in Mayo

49 new Garda graduates are being stationed across the North West region, but none are being sent to Mayo. The Garda Press Office has confirmed that 6 new Gardai will be attached to the Sligo / Leitrim division, with 4 going to Sligo and two to Carrick on…

Dec 02, 2019

Dr Orla Flynn appointed President of GMIT

A new President has been appointed to the Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology. Dr Orla Flynn has been appointed President of GMIT. Dr Flynn is currently Vice-President for External Affairs and Cork IT and has 20 years experience in education management roles…

Dec 02, 2019

Mayo Senator calls for Childcare sector costs to be tackled ahead of SIPTU meeting

Challenges and costs in the Childcare sector must be tackled according to Mayo Senator Rose Conway Walsh. The Sinn Fein Senator says the Government cannot continue to ignore the challenges and costs in the childcare sector like costs, pay scales, recruitment,…

Dec 02, 2019

Post-mortem due to take place on body of man who died in Connemara, following alleged assault

A post-mortem examination is due to take place later today on the body of a man who died in Connemara yesterday morning following an alleged assault. Emergency services were called to a house in Baile na hAbhainn shortly after 9am yesterday morning, and a man…

Dec 02, 2019

Straide has won a Pride of Place Special Award

The Co Mayo village of Straide won a special award at the 2019 Pride of Place awards over the weekend. This is the 17th year of the awards, organised by Co-Operation Ireland and local authorities to acknowledge the work being done every day by communities…

Dec 02, 2019

GM of Mayo University Hospital says new extended ED at the facility awaiting government funding approval

The long awaited extension to the Emergency Department of Mayo University Hospital is at a standstill, as hospital management awaits funding approval from government for the development. That’s according to the General Manager of Mayo University Hospital,…

Dec 02, 2019

Motorists advised of problem with traffic lights at Bunree Bridge Ballina today

There are reports this morning of problems with the traffic lights at Bunree Bridge in Ballina.Motorists in the area say that the traffic lights are showing green to drivers on both sides of the junction at the same time.Gardai are advising motorists to take…

Dec 02, 2019

IMO to begin balloting its members from today for strike action

Thousands of doctors working in public hospitals who are members of The Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) are to begin voting from today for strike action. The IMO says it’s seeking a mandate from its 3,500 consultant and non-consultant hospital doctor members…

Dec 02, 2019

Report highlights serious health and safety issues for Travellers in Galway

A new report shows a lack of urgency by local authorities in Galway to address serious health and safety issues for travellers in the county A series of protests are being planned today, as the report highlights deplorable conditions which show little sign of…

Dec 02, 2019

A man remains in garda custody this morning in connection with the death of a man in Connemara yesterday

A man in his 70s remains in garda custody this morning in connection with the death of a man in County Galway yesterday Emergency services were called to a house in Baile Na hAbhann in Connemara shortly after 9 o'clock yesterday morning, following reports of…

Dec 01, 2019

Man in his 60's dies following alleged assault in Connemara

A man in his 60s has died after an alleged assault at a house in County Galway. Gardai were called to the home in Ballinahown, Connemara shortly after 9am, where Ambulance Service personnel were treating him. He was removed from the scene by Ambulance to…

Dec 01, 2019

Projects across the Midwest receive funding from Inland Fisheries Ireland

Projects in Mayo, Sligo and Roscommon have been awarded funding from Inland Fisheries Ireland to support fisheries conservation and protection initiatives, and to give the public greater access to fishing sites. In total, €1 million is being allocated to 25…

Dec 01, 2019

NUI Galway has been awarded the status 'University of Sanctuary'

NUI Galway is a University of Sanctuary following three years of campaigning from the university’s Students Union. The University of Sanctuary initiative aims to make third level institutions more inclusive to refugees, asylum seekers and members of the Irish…

Dec 01, 2019

Co. Galway has the highest proportion of people living substantial distances from emergency services

Co Galway has the highest proportion of people living 10 km or more from a 24-hour Garda station or from a local authority fire station. These are among the findings in a new CSO study, measuring distances to everyday services in Ireland. The survey shows how…

Dec 01, 2019

Aurivo has won the 2019 Most Sustainable Business Award

Aurivo has received the 2019 Most Sustainable Business Award from the Compass Group, in recognition of its outstanding contribution to sustainability and the environment. The announcement was made at the Compass Group's 9th annual "Food That Works" Summit at…

Dec 01, 2019

Study finds lack of understanding in West of Ireland student's antibiotic use

There's a lack of understanding and knowledge about antibiotic use among college students in the West of Ireland. That's according to a study carried out this year of over 500 students from across all five GMIT campuses. The study shows there's a misuse of…

Dec 01, 2019

N59 Westport to Leenane road reopens to traffic following collision

The N59 Westport to Leenane road has reopened to traffic following a two vehicle collision at Carrowkennedy. The collision occurred shortly after 11am this morning and emergency services attended the scene. Midwest News understands that up to three people…

Dec 01, 2019

Two Mayo/Roscommon Hospice events to take place in Knock today

Hundreds of people are registered to take part in the Memorial Walk in Knock this afternoon for the Mayo / Roscommon Hospice. The walk starts from St John's Rest & Care Centre at Knock Shrine at 5pm, and people can still register for the event between 4 and 5…

Dec 01, 2019

No guarantee that money will be available next year to commence new 50-bed unit at the Sacred Heart Hospital in Roscommon

There's no guarantee that money will be available next year to commence construction of the long-awaited new 50-bed unit at the Sacred Heart Hospital in Roscommon. Prior to the 2016 general election, €9 million was announced for a replacement 50-bedroom unit…

Nov 30, 2019

Plans for a new secondary school in Ballina have gone to tender

St Mary's Secondary School in Ballina will see the construction of a new 650 pupil school on a greenfield site. The new school building project has gone to tender having gone through the planning permission stage. As one the Government's Capital Programme…

Nov 30, 2019

Projects across the Midwest receive funding under the Outdoor Recreation Scheme

Three Galway projects will receive €47,920 in funding as part of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme administered by the Department of Community and Rural Development. Gort River Walk Development Group and Gort Tidy Towns are to receive €19,760 for…

Nov 30, 2019

Local Leitrim group to welcome asylum seekers in Ballinamore tonight

Asylum seekers in Ballinamore in Co. Leitrim are being welcomed by a new local group. 'Ballinamore Says Welcome' was set up last month, following protests that 130 people would be housed in a Direct Provision Centre in the town. Yesterday it was confirmed…

Nov 30, 2019

Temperatures set to plummet to minus two degrees tonight

Ireland is set to be colder than Iceland on Sunday night as a cold snap grips the country. Met Eireann is forecasting temperatures to plummet to minus 2 degrees tonight and as low as minus 3 degrees on Sunday night. The Midlands will experience the coldest…

Nov 30, 2019

Belmullet Christmas market and festival of lights get underway this afternoon

The annual Belmullet Christmas market and festival of lights gets underway this afternoon. The festivities will be up and running by two o'clock with up to 24 stalls to browse along the market until six o'clock this evening. Silver world karate medallist…

Nov 30, 2019

Councillor raises concerns over delays facing some medical card patients in getting appointment with local GP

A Mayo Councillor is concerned about delays facing some medical card patients in getting an appointment with their local GP. Castlebar Independent Councillor Michael Kilcoyne raised the matter at the recent HSE Regional Forum meeting, where he was told that…

Nov 30, 2019

€100,000 worth of drugs seized in Co. Roscommon

€100,000 euro worth of drugs has been seized in Co Roscommon. The cannabis was recovered after a Garda operation in Ballyleague yesterday. The discovery was made as part of an investigation into the sale and supply of drugs in the Roscommon area. There have…

Nov 30, 2019

Fresh hopes that the Cuisle Centre may not close permanently

There are hopes a Roscommon respite centre for people with disabilities may not close permanently. The Irish Wheelchair Association shut the Cuisle centre yesterday, with the loss of up to 48 jobs. However, local TDs are involved in talks with a state agency,…

Nov 29, 2019

Mayo company Atlantic Phontonic Solutions wins Best New Start in national competition

Mayo company Atlantic Photonic Solutions won the Best New Start Category award and a cash prize of €50,000 at the InterTradeIreland’s Seedcorn Competition. The Castlebar company has developed a harmless fish-friendly light, that aims to remove sea lice from…

Nov 29, 2019

Mayo on Ice opens in Castlebar this afternoon

The third annual Mayo on Ice Skating rink at the Mall in Castlebar will get underway this evening. The event will open this afternoon, and run for five weeks up until Sunday, January 5th. Behind the venture is Castlebar Chamber of Commerce, backed by Mayo…

Nov 29, 2019

Climate Action Demonstration in Castlebar today

Students are taking to the streets of Dublin again this lunchtime demanding immediate climate action. This is the second massive protest planned in Dublin, after over 20,000 people protested over climate change on the 20th of September, saying climate action…

Nov 29, 2019

€100,000 allocated to five walking trails in Mayo

Funding of €100,000 has been allocated for the enhancement of five walking trails in Co Mayo. €20,000 goes to each of five trails - including the Nephin Trailwalk in Laherdane, Brackloon Woods in Westport, the Pullathomas Loop Walsk, Killeen Walks and the…

Nov 29, 2019

Mayo County Council win Age Friendly Initiative Award

Mayo County Council has won the Age Friendly Initiative Award at the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards. The 16th annual Awards ceremony was held in association with the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government and showcases…

Nov 29, 2019

Castlebar man steps away from his executive role with Maximum Media but will remain involved in the UK operations

The founder of Maximum Media, Castlebar native, Niall McGarry, has stepped away from his executive role in its Irish business. The publishing group operates here under banners such as Joe.ie and Her.ie. It's after it was alleged that some of the groups…

Nov 29, 2019

The Cuisle Centre in Roscommon closing its doors today with the loss of 48 jobs

A respite centre for people with disabilities will close today, with the loss of 48 jobs. The Irish Wheelchair Association is shutting the Cuisle centre in Donamon, Co Roscommon because of funding issues. More than 1,500 people protested against the plans…

Nov 29, 2019

27 asylum seekers are to be moved from emergency accommodation into apartments in Leitrim before Christmas

Campaigners are welcoming revised plans for a direct-provision centre in Co Leitrim. Round-the-clock protests were held recently against a proposal to house up to 130 asylum-seekers in Ballinamore this month. The Immigration Minister David Stanton now says…

Nov 28, 2019

Distinguished Leadership Award for Ballina native Mary Robinson

Ballina native Mary Robinson received the Distinguished Leadership Award today at the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland annual Thanksgiving lunch in Dublin. Presenting Ireland's former President with the award, Taoiseach Leo Varadker said Mary Robinson has…

Nov 28, 2019

Sligo TD says someone must be held responsible for Dáil printer controversy

Someone in the public sector will have to be held responsible for the Dáil printer controversy, according to Sligo TD Marc McSharry. It was revealed this morning that the entire cost of buying and installing a new printer in the Oireachtas was more than 1.8…

Nov 28, 2019

Court injunctions against two farmers to be struck out

Court injunctions against two beef farmers for protesting outside a pet food company in Co Longford are to be struck out. C&D Petfoods had brought the action against Fine Gael Cllr Paraic Brady and local carpenter Colm Leonard after its plant in…

Nov 28, 2019

Do Not Use water notice issued for 40 properties in Galway industrial estate has now been lifted

Irish Water says a Do Not Use water notice, which was put in place earlier this week for a number of businesses at the Liosbaun Industrial Estate in Galway has now been lifted. The alert was issued earlier this week for 40 businesses in the Kilkerrin Park…

Nov 28, 2019

A Canadian man, whose houseboat washed ashore near Belmullet three years ago, has been located in Vancouver

A Canadian man, whose houseboat washed ashore near Belmullet three years ago, has been located in Vancouver. The solar powered enabled craft washed up on Drum Beach in 2016. It has emerged that the man responsible for building the boat, Rick Small, lives in…

Nov 28, 2019

Councillor Aisling Dolan to contest next General Election in Roscommon-Galway constituency as a Fine Gael candidate

Councillor Aisling Dolan will contest the next General Election in the Roscommon-Galway constituency as a Fine Gael candidate. At a meeting of Fine Gael’s Executive Council last night, Cllr Dolan was added to the constituency ticket to run alongside Senator…

Nov 28, 2019

Chair of Oireachtas Sports Committee says funding should be restored to women's and youth football

The Chair of the Oireachtas Sports Committee says funding should be restored to women's and youth football. FAI funding has been suspended while an independent audit of the organisations finances was carried out. The final report has been sent to Gardaí to…

Nov 28, 2019

Engineering Design Consultants for Ballina Flood Relief Scheme to be appointed in January

Engineering Design Consultants for the long-awaited Ballina Flood Relief Scheme are set to be appointed in January 2020. This news has been confirmed this morning by Deputy Leader of Fianna Fáil Dara Calleary. The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform…

Nov 28, 2019

Councillor questions why Search & Rescue helicopters cannot transfer patients between hospitals at night in emergency situations

A Sligo Councillor has questioned why Search & Rescue helicopters cannot transfer patients between hospitals at night in emergency situations. The issue was raised at this week's HSE Regional Forum meeting was Sligo Fianna Fail Councillor Donal Gilroy, who…

Nov 27, 2019

Gardai investigating an altercation in Westport today

Westport Gardai are investigating after the traffic warden in the town was involved in an altercation with an owner of a vehicle. The altercation occurred on James Street shortly before midday when the owner of a vehicle is alleged to have reacted angrily…

Nov 27, 2019

Gardai target purchase of sexual services in Mayo and Sligo

Mayo and Sligo were among eight Garda divisions where investigations were carried out two days last week as part of Operation Quest - targeting the demand for sexual services and to enforce legislation which criminalises the purchase of such services. The two…

Nov 27, 2019

Gardai investigating after man in his 20's was stabbed in Castleber

Gardai in Castlebar are investigating after a man in his 20’s was stabbed in the town yesterday. The assault occurred at a house on the Thomas Street area in the town. The male received minor injuries and was taken to Mayo University Hospital for treatment.…

Nov 27, 2019

HSE motion calling on IWA to abandon closure of Cuisle centre in Donamon

A motion calling on the HSE Executive to ask the board of the Irish Wheelchair Association to abandon the proposed closure of the Cuisle holiday centre in Donamon, Roscommon was carried unopposed at yesterday's meeting of the HSE Regional Health Forum in…

Nov 27, 2019

Farmers demand injunctions lifted, and Beef Taskforce reconvened before protest will be called off

A farmers protest is continuing for a second day in Dublin - disrupting traffic and public transport in the city centre. The independent group of farmers organising the protest had insisted yesterday that they meet with the Agriculture Minister Michael Creed.…

Nov 27, 2019

Minister Creed meets with protesting farmers outside Leinster House

A farmers protest is continuing for a second day in Dublin - disrupting traffic for morning commuters in the city. The independent group of farmers organising the protest had insisted they meet with the Agriculture Minister Michael Creed. Without prior…

Nov 27, 2019

GAA Director-General seeks meeting with Tim O'Leary over Mayo GAA funding row

GAA's director-general Tom Ryan is set to intervene directly in the ongoing row over Mayo GAA funding, and meet with US-based Tim O'Leary. The Irish Independent reports that Croke Park officials have already met with the Mayo executive and were briefed on the…

Nov 27, 2019

Patient exited window at Mayo University Hospital last month, sustaining injuries after falling from a flat roof

A risk assessment is to be carried out, after a patient at Mayo University Hospital exited through a window to a flat roof, and fell about 30 foot, sustaining serious injuries. The incident happened a month ago, and the man involved was subsequently treated…

Nov 27, 2019

Roscommon TD calls for Beef Market Taskforce to be reconvened urgently

As the farmers protest continues in the capital, a Roscommon TD is calling for the Beef Market Taskforce to be reconvened, as a matter of urgency. Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice is calling on the chair of the taskforce Michael Dowling and the Agriculture…

Nov 27, 2019

Farmers protest continues outside the Dáil this morning and looks set to escalate

A protest by farmers is continuing outside the Dáil this morning, and looks set to escalate. The group say they're highlighting the challenges in the sector, and won't leave until the Agriculture Minister meets them. Yesterday saw traffic chaos in the area as…

Nov 26, 2019

Substantial Government funding secured for the Ballina Fringe Festival

Almost 14,000 euro in LEADER funding has been secured for Ballina Fringe Festival. Fine Gael Senator Michelle Mulherin says the funding is for the purchase of audio and sound equipment, and for marketing and printing, for the Ballina Fringe Festival, which is…

Nov 26, 2019

Sligo TD wants all who applied to an organic farm initiative to avail of the scheme

All farmers who applied for the Organic Farming Scheme should avail of the scheme- that’s according to Sligo/Leitrim TD Eamonn Scanlon. Fianna Fail’s Eamonn Scanlon says that farmers were misled in applying for the scheme, with some investing up to €5000…

Nov 26, 2019

Safe Ireland conference aims to make Mayo the safest county for women and children in pilot to tackle domestic violence

A national conference on violence against women took place yesterday at the Knockranny House Hotel in Westport- marking International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Safe Ireland organised the conference, and outlined a strategy to make…

Nov 26, 2019

7% increase in average family farm income in 2019, says Teagasc

Average family farm incomes in Ireland rose by about 7% last year, according to a new Teagasc survey. Economists say a key driver of the increase has been a reduction in animal feed use on dairy, beef and sheep farms, as well as additional subsidy supports…

Nov 26, 2019

Health Minister asked to intervene on behalf of Roscommon boy with autism

The Minister for Health is being asked to intervene in the case of a Co Roscommon boy with autism, who may have to wait four years to avail of services. Roscommon-Galway Fianna Fail TD Eugene Murphy says the 7-year old boy from north Roscommon is currently in…

Nov 26, 2019

Westport woman wins €29,000 on Winning Streak - 24 years after her mother appeared on the programme

A Mayo woman won €29,000 on the Winning Streak TV gameshow at the weekend - 24 years after her mother appeared on the programme. Emer O'Grady from Westport, who works in Allergan, was delighted with her winnings of €29,000. Her mother Anne appeared on the…

Nov 26, 2019

Flood relief works to get underway in Carraholly next month

Work is to start next month on flood relief works in the Carraholly area outside Westport. A number of homes in the area were flooded during severe weather conditions almost 5 years ago, and since then, a campaign has been underway to replace the barrier that…

Nov 26, 2019

Farmers to protest outside Dail Eireann today

Buses and tractors are leaving from across the West this morning, as farmers travel to Dublin for a protest outside Leinster House. A tractorcade will converge on the city at around noon. The farmers protest is being organised by the Individual Farmers of…

Nov 26, 2019

Cabinet to debate new plans for speeding penalties

Plans for new speeding penalties will be brought before cabinet this morning. The changes would see drivers fined - depending on how much over the speed limit they are. Anyone breaking the limit by more than 30 kilometres an hour could be prosecuted and fined…

Nov 26, 2019

Oireachtas Health Committee calls for closure of Cuisle centre in Donamon to be deferred

The Oireachtas Health Committee is calling on the Irish Wheelchair Association to defer the planned closure of the Cuisle respite centre in Co Roscommon until the new year. The Cuisla facility in Donamon is set to close its doors this week with the loss of 48…

Nov 26, 2019

Inquest into death of Swinford Garda returns verdict of death from natural causes

A verdict of death from natural causes was returned by the Coroner for Mayo, Pat O’Connor yesterday into the death of a 48-year-old Garda, who collapsed while on a leisure cycle on the Swinford to Kiltimagh road last May. John McCallion, Carnacross, Swinford,…

Nov 25, 2019

Sligo IT to hold a CAO information event this evening for Mayo pupils

Sligo IT is holding a CAO information evening in the Great National Hotel in Ballina at 7pm this evening. The event is free to attend and will provide information to leaving cert students and their parents on the CAO process and college choices regardless of…

Nov 25, 2019

Mayo Co Co budget meeting adjourned without agreement, for second time

Mayo County Councillors failed to approve the 2020 budget for the county today, as the annual budget meeting was adjourned without agreement - for a second time. Council management is seeking a 3% increase in rates, and is proposing to cut the General…

Nov 25, 2019

Do Not Use water notice issued to 40 properties in Liosbaun Industrial Estate, Galway

A Do Not Use notice has been issued on the water supply in a section of the Liosbaun Industrial estate in Galway city. Irish Water has issued a Do Not Use notice for 40 commercial properties located in the Kilkerrin Park section of Liosbaun Industrial Estate…

Nov 25, 2019

Man sentenced to 4 years in prison for killing Galway athlete

A 68-year-old man has been sentenced to four years in prison for killing a Galway athlete over two years ago. Noel Lenihan from Cardinal Cushing Road, Mervue, Galway had been charged with the murder of 38-year old Christopher McGrath on 12 March 2017. He…

Nov 25, 2019

Cosmetic Creations to create 40 new jobs at its Claremorris facility

Cosmetic Creations Ltd, has today announced that 90 jobs are to be created between its operations in Mayo and Cork, following an investment of €7.5million into the company. Forty jobs are earmarked for the company’s Mayo head office in Claremorris, increasing…

Nov 25, 2019

Less than one-third of patients at Mayo University Hospital admitted from ED to ward within HSE 6-hour target

Less than one-third of patients at Mayo University Hospital were admitted to a ward from the Emergency Department within the HSE's target waiting time of 6 hours. That's according to the findings of the National Inpatient Experience Survey carried out by…

Nov 25, 2019

Tractor Protest over farming crisis to take place outside the Dail tomorrow

A national tractor protest will take place tomorrow (Tuesday) outside the Dail, on Kildare St in Dublin.. Farmers from across this region will be travelling to the capital to take part and voice their concerns over the future of farming. Aontú candidate in…

Nov 25, 2019

Minister Canney says tyre recycling a success and government scheme is to be expanded

A new survey on car and motorcycle tyre recycling in Ireland has shown that 97% of tyres produced in 2018 were recycled. Welcoming the findings of a review into the first year of the Tyre Disposal Scheme, Galway based, Minister of State at the Department of…

Nov 25, 2019

26 Mayo Schools confirmed for the Government's Summer Works Scheme 2020

The Minister for Community and Rural Development Michael Ring has confirmed that 26 Mayo schools will be enhanced under the Government’s Summer 2020 Works Scheme. The work will be focused on three main areas; the upgrading of safety systems, surfacing of play…

Nov 25, 2019

Portwest and Connacht Rugby attempt world record as they launch new Road Safety For All campaign

Portwest , in partnership with Connacht Rugby, has launched a new road safety for all campaign, Be Bright on Safety, which also aims to set a new World Record. Portwest, headquartered in Westport designs and manufactures protective and safety clothing The…

Nov 25, 2019

Break-in to Expert Electrical Store in Sligo yesterday

Gardai in Sligo are investigating a break-in that occurred in Expert Electrical store in the early hours of yesterday (Sunday) morning. Thieves entered the store by breaking through the front door of the premises located at Cleveragh Retail Park in Sligo.…

Nov 25, 2019

The death has occurred of one of Swinford's best known business men

The death has occurred of one of Swinford’s best known business men, Jimmy Greaney of Church View House. Jimmy and his late wife Eileen were the founders of Greaney’s Supermarket in the town centre. He is survived by his daughters Marian and Bernie, sons…

Nov 25, 2019

Voting gets underway today for 16th IFA President

Voting gets underway today for the 16th IFA national president and will conclude on Friday, December 13. The new president will replace Galway based farmer Joe Healy. The contenders are John Coughlan from Cork, Tim Cullinan from Tipperary and Angus Woods from…

Nov 25, 2019

The death has taken place of well known Castlerea based solicitor

The death has occurred of well known county Roscommon solicitor Gerard (Gerry) Gannon. He passed away on Saturday at University Hospital, Galway, after a short illness. Mr. Gannon, who lived at Balindrimley, Castlerea. is survived by his wife, Nell, their…

Nov 25, 2019

A man is due to be sentenced today for killing well-known Galway athlete Christopher McGrath

A man is due to be sentenced later this morning for killing well-known Galway athlete Christopher McGrath three years ago. Noel Lenihan of Cardinal Cushing Road in Mervue, Galway was initially charged with murder but his plea to manslaughter was accepted by…

Nov 24, 2019

Bronntanas call on the Mayo public for their 17th annual Christmas campaign

HSE and Tusla Staff in Mayo have launched their annual Bronntanas Appeal for Christmas 2019. Now in its 17th year, the Bronntanas project sees children from less fortunate families receive a Christmas gift anonymously during the festive season. Bronntanas…

Nov 24, 2019

Local Councillor urges Ballinrobe public to view the town's new traffic management plan

The proposed new traffic management plan for Ballinrobe is currently available for public consultation, and a local councillor is urging people to view the plan, and make their submissions before Christmas. The plan aims to improve traffic flow in Ballinrobe,…

Nov 24, 2019

Mayo TD calls the HSE's Winter Healthcare plan a 'sham plan'

The Winter Healthcare Plan, published recently by the HSE, has been described as "a sham plan" by a Mayo Fianna Fail TD. The Saolta Hospital group admitted to Midwest News last week that, despite the additional funding provided for the Winter Plan in the…

Nov 23, 2019

Mayo Deputy Lisa Chambers to host public meeting on insurance this Monday

Despite much debate, little has been done by Government to alleviate the increasing cost of insurance for businesses and motorists. That's according to Mayo Fianna Fail TD Lisa Chambers, who will host a public meeting next Monday night in the Ivy Tower Hotel,…

Nov 23, 2019

Gaeltacht Minister launches public consultation for national policy on offshore Island

Gaeltacht Minister Sean Kyne TD launched a public consultation process for a new national policy for Ireland’s offshore islands today. It marks the first cross-Government policy developed for the islands in 23 years and aims to set a roadmap for their…

Nov 23, 2019

"Achill Says Welcome" group say some of the asylum seekers due to move to Achill have now been given places elsewhere

The “Achill Says Welcome” group says some of the women who were due to move to Achill have now been given places elsewhere. In a Social Media Post the Group says on behalf of the people of Achill, they have apologised to the women for the distress they have…

Nov 23, 2019

New figures show first time home buyers spending a quarter of their salaries on mortgages

New home buyers are spending a quarter of their salaries on mortgages. New figures from the Central Bank also show that many have to get exemptions from strict lending rules to be able to secure a mortgage. Borrowers in and around the capital typically have…

Nov 23, 2019

Croi scoop three top awards for Irish Healthcare

The heart and stroke charity CROI has scooped three top awards for Irish Healthcare this week. Among its prize-winning projects was a student research study on the effects of severe obesity as a barrier to travel. CROI CEO Neil Johnson says their efforts in…

Nov 23, 2019

Public Rally in Roscommon today in an effort to save the Cuisle Centre from closure

A public rally in Roscommon town today, will call for the closure of a wheelchair accessible holiday centre to be reversed. The #SaveCuisle Support Group has organised the demonstration over plans to shut Cuisle Donamon next Friday. It'll also lead to the…

Nov 22, 2019

Woman whose sons were murdered by the father in Mayo says the Government isn't doing enough to protect women

A woman whose two sons were murdered by their father in Mayo says the government isn't doing enough to protect women's lives. Kathleen Chada's 5 and 10 year old sons were found in murdered in their father's car at Rosbeg in Westport on 29 July 2013. Her…

Nov 22, 2019

Mayo girl one of four young people honored at the Family Carers Ireland awards

A Mayo girl was one of four young carers of the year at the Family Carers Ireland awards. 11-year-old Hailey Golden from Balla was honoured with the award for the help she gives to her three brothers with special needs. She has learned ‘Lámh’ and Picture…

Nov 22, 2019

Traffic down to one lane in Breaffy following Road Collision

Gardai are at the scene of road collision on the N60 near Breaffy National School. Emergency services are at the scene and traffic is down to one lane. There are no reports of any injuries at present. Traffic is very heavy in both directions.

Nov 22, 2019

Three men charged with theft after Ballina gardai on patrol stopped a car last night

Three men are due before a sitting of Castlebar court today charged in connection with theft and fraud offences, after gardai on patrol in Ballina overnight stopped their car. At 2.30am this morning gardai arrested the three men on McDermott street in Ballina…

Nov 22, 2019

The late Mulranny musician Tom Molloy to be posthumously awarded the 2019 Hall of Fame Award tonight at the Mayo People of the Year Awards

The Mayo People of the Year Awards take place in Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar tonight. Now in its 27th year, the awards honour young and old, individual and groups, for their contribution to their communities. The awards are co sponsored annually by The…

Nov 22, 2019

Study shows a new acute hospital should be built on the Merlin Park site in Galway

A new study for the Saolta Hospital Group concludes that a new acute hospital should be built on the Merlin Park site in Galway. The external assessment and options appraisal process conducted by KPMG and Scott Tallon Walker Architects looked at existing…

Nov 22, 2019

Christmas lights will be officially switched on this evening in Castlebar

The countdown to Christmas gets underway officially in Castlebar this evening, with the switching on of the Christmas lights at 5pm at Market Square. The Castlebar Town Band and Santa Claus will be there to add to the atmosphere, and speaking to Midwest News…

Nov 22, 2019

Mayo's Big Red Barn company shortlisted in three categories in 2020 National Small Business Awards

Mayo company The Big Red Barn has been shortlisted in three separate categories of the National Small Business Awards 2020. The SFA National Business Awards celebrate the achievements of small businesses in Ireland, and recognise the vital contribution of the…

Nov 22, 2019

Strandhill takes national title 2019- European Destination of Excellence Award

Strandhill in Sligo has been named as the Irish winner of the 2019 EDEN - European Destination of Excellence Award. Of the four Irish destinations shortlisted, Strandhill was named Best Health & Wellbeing Tourism Destination in Ireland. The award goes to…

Nov 22, 2019

Deputy calls on government to suspend planned cuts to community pharmacists

Community pharmacists could be hit by cuts of between €20,000 and €25,000 each- under plans by Government to decrease the fees paid to pharmacists from the 1st January next. That's according to the Fianna Fail deputy leader Dara Calleary, who raised the…

Nov 22, 2019

Tenders sought for new direct provision centres nationally-with plans to accommodate 617 asylum seekers in Mayo/Roscommon/Galway

The Government is planning to house nearly 5,500 asylum seekers in new direct provision centres across the State at a cost of more than €320 million over the coming years. According to today’s Irish Times, tender documents show the Department of Justice is…

Nov 21, 2019

Three men in court charged in connection with attacks on sex workers in Roscommon Town

Three Romanian men have been brought before a special sitting of Roscommon District Court today, to face charges in connection with recent attacks on sex workers. The proceedings follow a number of arrests at addresses in west Dublin on Tuesday. The arrests…

Nov 21, 2019

Pedestrian removed to hospital following collision in Ballyhaunis

A female pedestrian was taken to hospital this afternoon following a collision on Doctors Road, Ballyhaunis. It appears the woman was walking from the Annagh Medical Centre towards Main Street, when she was struck by a van shortly after midday. The pedestrian…

Nov 21, 2019

National Museum of Country Life, Turlough wins prestigious Sandford Award

The National Museum of Country Life at Turlough, Castlebar has won a prestigious Sandford Award for excellence in heritage education. The awards assess the education programmes at museums, galleries, historic houses and gardens across the UK and Ireland,…

Nov 21, 2019

Ballina's Norah Patten among winners at An Post Irish Book Awards 2019

Ballina native Norah Patten was among the winners last night at the An Post Irish Book Awards 2019. Norah won the Specsavers Children's Book of the Year award for her book "Shooting for the Stars - My Journey to Becoming Ireland's First Astronaut". The awards…

Nov 21, 2019

IFA President says New Beef Price Index shows Irish farmers are due an increase

The Agriculture Minister has launched the Bord Bia Beef Market Tracking Tool. It was devised in response to requests at the beef talks in September for enhanced market transparency. The tracking tool is based on three components - cattle price index, beef…

Nov 21, 2019

Gardai appeal for information on suspicious vehicle in the Claremorris area

Gardai are appealing for any information on a White Volkswagen Tiguan 191 Wicklow Reg vehicle which was observed acting suspiciously in the Claremorris Balla Area inside the past hour. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Gardai at Claremorris on…

Nov 21, 2019

Emergency exercise taking place this morning at the Corrib Gas terminal

The Gardai in north Mayo are advising of an emergency exercise that is taking place this morning at the Corrib Gas terminal in Bellanaboy at 11am. Gardai, fire services, ambulances and all the emergency services in the area will be involved. Listeners are…

Nov 21, 2019

Plans in place to provide a link road in Ballina to relieve ongoing traffic congestion on the N26 Foxford side of the town

The ongoing traffic congestion on the Foxford side of Ballina looks likely to be relieved with initial plans now in place to provide a link road from the N26 on the Foxford side of the town to the N59 Crossmolina road. That’s according to Ballina Fianna Fail…

Nov 21, 2019

The IWA will appear before the Oireachtas health committee today, over the planned closure of the Cuisle Centre

The Irish Wheelchair Association would 'fail' people with disabilities if it closed a centre in Roscommon, according to Sinn Féin. The organisation intends shutting the Cuisle Holiday Centre at Donamon on November 29th, with the loss of 48 jobs. The IWA will…

Nov 21, 2019

Three men to appear in court in Roscommon this morning after attacks on sex workers

Three men will appear in court in Roscommon this morning, in connection with a string of targeted attacks on sex workers. It follows searches in West Dublin on Tuesday. As part of Operation Quest, detectives have been investigating a number of attacks on sex…

Nov 20, 2019

Boil Water Notice for Knock Airport Public Water Supply has been lifted

The Boil Water Notice for Knock Airport Public Water Supply has been lifted with immediate effect Following consultation with the Health Service Executive, Irish Water and Mayo County Council are pleased to confirm that the Boil Water Notice for the area…

Nov 20, 2019

Saolta confirms no formal funding approved for long awaited modular ED extension at MUH

There is no sign of the long promised modular build extension to the Emergency Dept at Mayo University Hospital, despite often severe overcrowding in the department, with patients left on trolleys along the corridor for extended periods waiting for admission…

Nov 20, 2019

Public rally in Roscommon Town on Saturday to try and save Cuisle centre

A major public rally to try and save the Cuisle Holiday Centre in Donamon will take place in Roscommon Town this Saturday. The Save Cuisle Support Group has organised a march from the new Roscommon County Council Civic Headquarters at 1pm on Saturday,…

Nov 20, 2019

Over €405,000 Sports Capital grants for two regional sports projects in Mayo

Over €405,000 in Sports Capital grant aid has been announced today for two regional sports projects in Co Mayo. The funding is part of a €2.5 million package of funding allocated for 15 projects across the country. GMIT Mayo will get €225,000 for all-weather…

Nov 20, 2019

IWA due before Oireachtas Committee tomorrow over plans to close Cuisle centre in Co Roscommon

Representatives of the Irish Wheelchair Association are due to come before TDs and Senators at the Oireachtas Health Committee tomorrow to explain their decision to close the Cuisle centre at Donamon in Co Roscommon. The centre has been a holiday facility for…

Nov 20, 2019

No additional beds to open this Winter at Mayo or Galway University Hospitals

Despite additional funding being allocated for the National Winter Health Plan, no additional beds will open this Winter at either Mayo or Galway University Hospital. That's according to the Chief Operations Officer with the Saolta Hospital Group. Additional…

Nov 20, 2019

Man in his 60's dies in Co Sligo collision

A man in his 60s has died in a road traffic collision in Co. Sligo. The collision, involving a van and a jeep, occurred at about 7 o'clock yesterday evening at Jinks Cross, Carraroe. The driver of the jeep was pronounced dead at the scene, while the…

Nov 19, 2019

Family of Roscommon Garda call for reopening of inquest into his death in 1970

The son of a Roscommon-born Garda, who was shot by paramilitaries during a bank raid in Dublin in 1970, says new evidence means the inquest should be reopened. Richard Fallon - a native of Kilrooskey in Co Roscommon -was shot twice and died at the scene of a…

Nov 19, 2019

Minister Ring welcomes signing of contract for National Broadband Plan

The Minister for Rural & Community Development Michael Ring says the signing today of the contract for the National Broadband Plan "heralds a new dawn for people living and working in rural Ireland". The Mayo-based Minister says access to high-speed broadband…

Nov 19, 2019

Conditions at the ED of MUH described as "dreadful" and "third world" yesterday

The emergency department at Mayo University hospital had in excess of thirty people on trolleys waiting for a bed on more than two occasions in the past week. Midwest News spoke to a person who was in the ED at the Castlebar hospital on Sunday and again…

Nov 19, 2019

National broadband contract includes over 36,000 premises in Mayo

Today's signing of the contract to proceed with the national broadband plan is "one of the defining days in the history of our country and will be the turning point for the revitalisation of rural Ireland" - that's according to former Communications Minister,…

Nov 19, 2019

In Castlebar yesterday the German Ambassador to Ireland pledges 100 percent support for Ireland in Brexit fallout

Germany stands one hundred percent behind Ireland and the backstop and the Good Friday Agreement, as the UK brexit debate continues, that was the strong message from the German Ambassador to Ireland Dieke Potzel when she visited Castlebar yesterday. The…

Nov 19, 2019

Plans for Japanese knotweed facility near Ballyhaunis rejected by An Bord Pleanala

An Bord Pleanala has rejected plans for a Japanese knotweed facility near Ballyhaunis. A company called Pollution & Construction Solutions Ltd - trading as The Japanese Knotweed Company - has applied for permission for a recovery facility for soil and stone…

Nov 19, 2019

Gardai in Ballina warn of 10 euro counterfeit notes in circulation

Gardai in Ballina are advising businesses and the general public that there are poor quality counterfeit 10 euro notes in circulation in the area at present.The dud notes were tendered in business premises and in restaurants in Ballina over the weekend.…

Nov 19, 2019

Revenue from car parking fines in Westport up five-fold this year over last

"Something dramatic" has happened with the administration of parking fines in Westport town this year with a five-fold increase in revenue collected from the fines, according to local Fine Gael councillor Peter Flynn. On street car parking charges were…

Nov 19, 2019

Sligo man given life sentence for murder of a Sligo musician in 2015

A Sligo man has been found guilty of murder after he stabbed a talented Sligo musician to death. According to today’s Irish Independent, Keith Brady (32), of Cartron Estate, Sligo, had denied murdering Martin 'Matt' Kivlehan on August 2 or 3, 2015, at Mr…

Nov 19, 2019

The National Broadband Plan looks set to be signed today

The National Broadband Plan contract looks set to be signed today. The deal is to get approval from the cabinet after the EU ruled the contract complies with state aid rules. Cabinet Ministers are meeting at the earlier time of 7.30 this morning to sign off…

Nov 18, 2019

Visiting restrictions on C Ward at Mayo hospital due to suspected vomiting bug

Visiting restrictions have been put in place on C Ward at Mayo University Hospital following a number of suspected cases of Norovirus - the vomiting bug. To assist staff in curtailing the spread of the virus, hospital management says it's imperative that only…

Nov 18, 2019

Lack of insurance cover puts Galway Community Circus in jeopardy

The rising cost of insurance cover is putting the Galway Community Circus in jeopardy. The not-for-profit youth and social circus school in Galway city is the latest organisation to fall victim to Ireland's mounting insurance crisis. Failure to secure…

Nov 18, 2019

Gardai remind public to be on alert for scams in run-up to Christmas

Gardai are reminding the public to be on alert for potential frauds in the run up to Christmas. Text and online loan scams are on the rise at this time of year, and Gardai are advising consumers to be on alert for text messages, emails or phone calls…

Nov 18, 2019

Work now underway on two landmark buildings in Castlebar town centre

Work is now underway on two landmark buildings in the heart of Castlebar Town. That's according to local FG Councillor Ger Deere, who has welcomed the start of enhancement works on the Castlebar Voluntary Social Services building in the Castle Street carpark,…

Nov 18, 2019

Majority of Mayo public representatives deny recent engagement with Dept of Justice on Achill Emergency Accommodation Centre

As the 24.7 silent vigil outside the Achill Head Hotel in Keel is continuing, there is as yet, no news on an arrival date for asylum seekers to the facility where the Dept of Justice plans to set up an emergency accommodation centre. The dept of Justice has…

Nov 18, 2019

38 patients on trolleys today at both Mayo & Galway University Hospitals

Mayo and Galway University Hospitals are among the most-overcrowded in the country today. Figures from the Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation show there are almost 560 patients on trolleys at hospitals across the country - with University Hospital Limerick…

Nov 18, 2019

Christmas shoppers can enjoy free afternoon parking in Ballina from next Monday

Christmas shoppers can look forward to free afternoon parking in the council-owned carparks in Ballina from next Monday 25th November. The Christmas lights in Ballina will be officially switched on next Sunday evening, with the free car parking for shoppers…

Nov 18, 2019

Power has been restored to 1500 homes in the Belmullet area

Power has been restored to 1500 homes in the Belmullet area. The supply went down in at 8:17 this morning according to the ESB. It was caused by a low voltage section of line according to the ESB. Crews restored power fully to the area around 9 o'clock.

Nov 18, 2019

Councillor wants clarification from MCC on fee being charged for a water sample to a Brewery at Murrisk

A fee being charged by Mayo County Council, for a water sample on a brewery in Murrisk, Westport is “absurd”, according to Independent Westport Councillor Johno O’Malley. He raised the 760 euro fee, quoted by an agent for the local authority to Mescan Brewery…

Nov 18, 2019

Christmas Jumper Walk at Lough Lannagh on December 8th

Mayo footballers Paddy Durcan and Diarmuid O’Connor are encouraging walkers, runners and strollers to come out in support of the Christmas jumper walk, run and stroll on December 8 around Lough Lannagh, Castlebar. The fun, family friendly event, now in its…

Nov 18, 2019

ACP support Cavan Priest on his "courageous" sermon following attack on Kevin Lunneyy

The Association of Catholic Priests (ACP) has issued a statement supporting Fr Oliver O'Reilly the county Cavin Parish Priest and the position he has adopted in relation to the recent attack on Mr Kevin Lunney. “We admire his courage in speaking the truth in…

Nov 18, 2019

Yellow temperature warning in place across the region until 10am this morning

Motorists are advised of potentially difficult driving conditions this morning due to a cold snap which has left a sharp frost with icy patches on roads and areas of freezing fog. A status yellow temperature warning remains in place for this region this…

Nov 18, 2019

Dept of Justice says its officials are engaging with local public representatives over planned emergency accommodation centre in Achill

As the silent vigil outside the Achill Head Hotel in Keel is continuing, there is as yet, no news on an arrival date for asylum seekers to the facility where the Dept of Justice plans to set up an emergency accommodation centre. The dept of Justice has told…

Nov 17, 2019

Independent Councillor wants Gardaí to tackle 'incitement of hatred' against the Quinn Holding Group

The failure of Facebook and the Gardai to act on facebook posters that have been online for years against the executive of the Quinn Holding Group, was raised by Westport Independent councillor Christy Hyland with the Garda Commisioner Drew Harris when the…

Nov 17, 2019

Mayo Senator calls Tesco Ballina's new upgrade plans 'inadequate'

A Mayo Fine Gael Senator has called Tesco’s new plans for an upgrade of their existing store in Ballina inadequate and disappointing. Michelle Mulherin is calling on Tesco Ireland to alter these new plans to address serious shortcomings in their latest…

Nov 17, 2019

Fianna Fail calls for earlier publication of the Mercosur Deal economic report

Fianna Fail is accusing the government of "playing politics" over an economic impact report into the Mercosur trade deal. Under the agreement, 99,000 tonnes of beef will be imported into the EU from South America each year - a move that's been heavily…

Nov 17, 2019

Protests in Haiti prevent Westport woman collecting her Humanitarian of the year award

Protests on the streets of Haiti stopped Gena Heraty from travelling to Dublin to collect her humanitarian of the year award at last night Irish Red Cross awards. The Westport woman has spent the past 26 years caring for vulnerable young people with…

Nov 16, 2019

Roscommon University Hospital to base back-up air ambulance

Independent TD Denis Naughten has confirmed that a new back-up air ambulance service is to be based beside Roscommon University Hospital from next week to replace the down time of the Air Corps based helicopter in Athlone. The move follows a decision by the…

Nov 16, 2019

Councillor says new planning regulations will deter developers from building houses

New planning regulations will deter developers from building new houses, at a time when the housing list in Mayo is growing. That's according to Castlebar-based FG Councillor Cyril Burke, who says developers need to be encouraged to build new homes in the…

Nov 16, 2019

St Peter's National School receives funding under Additional Accommodation Scheme

St. Peter’s National School in Snugboro near Castlebar has been granted funds under the Additional Accommodation Scheme. The accommodation approved includes one classroom, two special Educational rooms and one disabled access Wheel Chair toilet. Minister…

Nov 16, 2019

No injuries reported after a two vehicle collision on the N60 yesterday

Gardaí attended the scene of a two vehicle RTC that occurred on the N60 (Breaffy Road), Castlebar, yesterday evening. The collision occurred at approximately 6pm in evening near the Cottage Road junction. No injuries were reported after the incident.

Nov 15, 2019

Mayo Senator raises provision for new fire station in Crossmolina

The provision of a new fire station for Crossmolina was raised in the Seanad this week. Fine Gael Senator Michelle Mulherin says a new facility is a number one priority for Mayo County Council. Senator Mulherin says the Department has given a commitment that…

Nov 15, 2019

Two Mayo schools to compete in the final of the Someone Like Me art competition

Irishtown National School and St Dymphna’s School have been named County winners in the Someone Like Me national art competition, winning the junior and senior county titles respectively. Supported by the National Disability Authority, the competition…

Nov 15, 2019

Man and a woman released without charge in relation to the murder of a Leitrim man

A man and a woman arrested in connection with the murder of a man in Leitrim, have been released without charge. Patrick Heeran was last seen in Mohill Co. Leitrim in October 2011. The missing persons investigation turned into a murder inquiry in 2016. A man…

Nov 15, 2019

Mayo woman nominated for Humanitarian of the year at Irish Red Cross Awards

A Mayo woman has been nominated for Humanitarian of the Year at the Irish Red Cross Humanitarian Awards. Gena Heraty moved to Haiti almost three decades ago and is known all over Haiti for challenging prejudice against people with physical and intellectual…

Nov 15, 2019

Gardai investigating break-ins at two houses in Ballindine last night

Claremorris Gardai are investigating a further two break-ins to properties in the Ballindine area last night. Cash and jewellery were stolen in the raids. This follows on from a spate of burglaries in recent days in the Claremorris, Charlestown and Knock…

Nov 15, 2019

More than 1300 children await appointments with specialists at MUH

More than 1300 children are on hospital waiting lists to see a specialist at Mayo University hospital at present. Mayo Sinn Fein Senator Rose Conway-Walsh says the Department of Health figures released to Sinn Féin this week, showing that there are 1323…

Nov 15, 2019

Mayo man among first graduates of Insurance Practioner Apprenticeship

Mayo man Jason Walmsey has graduated from The Insurance Institute’s first ever Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship. Jason, along with 32 other apprentices from all over Ireland, graduated at an awards ceremony in IT Sligo. The Insurance Practitioner…

Nov 15, 2019

Over One Million announced for 36 local projects through the 2019 Sports Capital Grants

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, has said that sports clubs and organisations across Mayo are set to benefit from €1,143,493 investment in 36 local projects through the 2019 Sports Capital Grants. Michael Ring has made the announcement to…

Nov 15, 2019

Ballyhaunis among Dawn Meat Plants nationally to achieve the Business Working Responsibly (BWR) Mark

Dawn Meats has become the first food processor to achieve the Business Working Responsibly (BWR) Mark across all of its plants nationally, including Ballyhaunis . The Mark is audited by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI). The Waterford-based…

Nov 15, 2019

139,000 for Ballina Library to become a self -service library open 365 days a year

Almost 139,000 euro has been announced for Ballina Library. Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring has announced funding to enable the My Open Library service to be provided in Ballina Library. It will allow the public to access and use the…

Nov 15, 2019

Two people have been arrested in connection with the murder of a Leitrim man

Two people have been arrested as part of an ongoing investigation into the murder of Patrick Heeran. The 48 year old man was last seen in Mohill in Leitrim eight years ago. He disappeared without a trace in 2011, but the case was upgraded to murder five years…

Nov 14, 2019

Stop/Go traffic system in operation in Foxford town as two separate contracts underway

Considerable traffic delays are continuing through Foxford town centre and out the N26 Ballina road, as far as O’Hara’s Bakery, and will remain in place until after Monday next at the earliest. The stop / go system for traffic will remain in place.…

Nov 14, 2019

Double celebrations tomorrow at Sancta Maria College Louisburgh

Tomorrow (Friday) from 11am, students, staff parents and the wider community of Louisburgh will celebrate the centenary anniversary of the opening of the town’s secondary school by the Sisters of Mercy, back in 1919. It’s a double celebration tomorrow, as the…

Nov 14, 2019

32 patients on trolleys today at Mayo University Hospital

571 patients are waiting on trolleys at hospitals across the country. University Hospital Limerick is the worst affected with 62 people awaiting beds, according to the INMO. That's followed by 44 at University Hospital Galway and 38 at Cork University…

Nov 14, 2019

Marian Harkin confirms she will not be running for Fine Gael in next General Election

Former MEP Marian Harkin has confirmed she will not be running for Fine Gael in the next General Election. The Sligo woman had been at the centre of speculation in recent weeks, as the party seeks a running mate to partner Boyle based Senator Frank Feighan in…

Nov 14, 2019

Castlebar Councillor highlights the need for public water stations at Lough Lannagh

A Castlebar Councillor has again highlighted the need for public water stations at Lough Lannagh in Castlebar. Given the number of people walking, running and cycling around the lake, and also using the Greenway, local FG Councillor Ger Deere believes the…

Nov 14, 2019

Galway Fianna Fail Deputy says Scouting Ireland is not equipped to carry out review of complaints into historical abuse allegations

No organisation should have any gaps when it comes to safeguarding our children. That's the message from Galway based Fianna Fail TD Anne Rabbitte, who has called for a statutory inquiry into historical abuse allegations toward Scouting organisations. It…

Nov 14, 2019

Mayo Fianna Fail TD expresses anger at delay in rolling out Spinraza Drug

A Mayo Fianna Fail TD has expressed her disappointment that despite the approval of the Spinraza drug last June for children with SMA only three of the 25 waiting have received access to this drug. Lisa Chambers said when she questioned the Health Minister…

Nov 13, 2019

Claremorris Gardai investigating a spate of burglaries

Claremorris Gardai are investigating following a spate of burglaries which have occurred in their district since last Thursday evening. Four break-ins took place at residential premises on Saturday between 4pm & 10pm. Two of the break-ins were in Ballindine…

Nov 13, 2019

Major Power outage in Ballina this afternoon

There is a major power outage in the Ballina area this afternoon. There are 3,935 ESB Customers without power today. ESB say they are currently working to repair the fault and hope to have power restored to all affected customers by 6pm this evening.

Nov 13, 2019

Despite promise by Iarnrod Eireann to Mayo - all new train carriages to be based in the greater Dublin area

A spokesperson for Iarnrod Eireann has confirmed to Midwest News today that while 150 million euro has been approved by government for the purchase of 41 new rail carriages, to be in place by the end of 2021 – all of these new carriages will be based in…

Nov 13, 2019

Cuisle bosses to go before Oireachtas Committee on Health over proposed closure

The Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health is to call in the Directors and CEO of the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) in an effort to have the decision of the Association to close the Cuisle Holiday Centre in Donamon, county Roscommon reversed. The closure…

Nov 13, 2019

Castlerea Gardai host Coffee Meet tomorrow for Hospice

Gardai in Castlerea are holding a coffee meeting for the public in the garda station in the town tomorrow morning (Thurs) between 11am and 3pm. All proceeds will go towards the Mayo Roscommon Hospice foundation. Everyone is welcome.

Nov 13, 2019

Westport's Laoise Kelly named TG4's 'Musician of the Year'

Musician Laoise Kelly from Westport has been chosen as TG4's 'Musician of the Year', and is one of the youngest recipients of the main award to date. Laoise will be awarded the title at TG4's Gradam Ceoil gala concert which will take place in Belfast's…

Nov 13, 2019

Cllr highlights the number of collisions recorded along the N84 Headford to Galway road over three years

29 separate collisions have taken place on the N84 Headford to Galway road over the past three years, according Independent Galway Cllr. James Charity. The cllr says the gardai have confirmed this figure to him and he says the vast majority of the collisions…

Nov 13, 2019

The Immigrant Council of Ireland "disappointed" with remarks by deputy Grealish in the Dail yesterday

Harassment, threats and physical violence are often the result when a public figure negatively comments on immigrants. That's according to the Immigrant Council of Ireland, which says yesterday's claims by Galway West TD Noel Grealish in the Dáil were…

Nov 13, 2019

Newport and Killala among areas highlighted by EPA where raw sewerage continues to enter waterways daily

36 towns and villages across the country are releasing raw sewage into the environment everyday. The Environmental Protection Agency says half of the raw sewage comes from just three areas - Arklow, Cobh and Kilmore Quay. Mayo areas highlighted in the report…

Nov 13, 2019

Public meeting in Knock tonight ahead of national tractor protest at the end of the month

Farmers from across Ireland are planning a national tractor protest in Dublin later this month to campaign against what they term as “the Government’s continued discrimination of farming communities and rural Ireland”. The tractor protest will be held on…

Nov 13, 2019

Councillor asks how GMA in West Mayo Municipal District to be halved as car parking revenue up 45% in 2019

Westport councillor, Peter Flynn is calling for clarity on how GMA in the West Mayo Municipal District is to be halved next year, when revenue from car parking charges is up 45 percent this year. The General Municipal Allocation (GMA) budget for the West Mayo…

Nov 12, 2019

Up to fifty people gather at a farm outside Strokestown to oppose a repossession

Up to fifty people have gathered at a property in Strokestown, Roscommon to oppose any attempt by a bank to re-possess a farmhouse. Last month KBC Bank secured an injunction compelling members of the McGann family to leave the property at midday today,…

Nov 12, 2019

Independent Councillor welcomes progress to the reopening of a Ballina Street

Independent Cllr Seamus Weir has received confirmation that James Connolly Street is set to reopen before Christmas. The Ballina Town Street has been closed due to a fire at a premise on their last March. The closure of the street has led to traffic…

Nov 12, 2019

Large crowds attend the funeral of local entrepreneur JP Duffy today

The Funeral service took place today of JP Duffy who passed away on Saturday, while taking part in the Westport Sea 2 Summit Challenge. Large crowds attended the funeral service this afternoon in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Curry. Mr Duffy from…

Nov 12, 2019

Rents have risen across the region by up to 8% since last year

In Mayo, rents were on average 8% higher in the third quarter of 2019 than a year previously. The average listed rent is now €762, up 47% from its lowest point. In Connacht, rents rose by an average of 8.9% in the year to September 2019 and are now 26% above…

Nov 12, 2019

Councillor succeeds in call for report by CE of Mayo County Council on all properties owned by the authority

After a refusal and extensive debate, Mayo Chief Executive Peter Hynes eventually agreed to provide a report to councillors on all properties and lands in the ownership of Mayo County Council at yesterday’s monthly meeting of Mayo county Council. Fine Gael…

Nov 12, 2019

Vaughan's Shoes wins national online retailer of the year award

Local Mayo Business Vaughan’s Shoes has won the national online retailer of the year award at the AIB Retail Excellence awards over the weekend. Vaughan’s Shoes won the best in Ecommerce award for excelling in the sale of goods online. Their site scored the…

Nov 12, 2019

IFA President says Irish farmers are demanding price rises for exports to China

Irish farmers are demanding price rises as China expands its international import markets for meat to replace the millions of pigs killed by African swine fever this year. IFA president, Galway based Joe Healy, insists that access to Chinese markets must…

Nov 12, 2019

Commission for Regulation Utilities to decide on certification for Mayo Lower Ltd, Killala in the next few weeks

Representatives of the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities addressed the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council yesterday. They had been invited by councillors to attend, as a critical decision on a licence / certification for Mayo power Ltd in Killala…

Nov 11, 2019

Tributes paid to the late Joe Loftus at today's Mayo County Council meeting

Tributes were paid to late Joe Loftus who died last week at today's Mayo County Council meeting Joe had retired two years ago after 40 years of service as a senior council official. Sympathies were extended by Councillors to Joe's wife and children. He was…

Nov 11, 2019

New Irish language PE pilot will be rolled out at two schools in this region

A new initiative which will see pupils in St Muredach’s College, Ballina and St Coman’s Wood PS, Roscommon learn the Irish language during PE It is part of a new pilot being rolled out to 19 Primary and Secondary schools nationwide in an integrated learning…

Nov 11, 2019

Councillor calls for more resources in the Mayo Garda Drugs Unit, after heroin is detected in Ballina

Heroin has been detected by gardai in Ballina recently, and while the detection is very welcome it indicates the strong need for more resources in the Mayo Garda Drug Unit, according to Independent Westport councillor Christy Hyland. The councillor raised his…

Nov 11, 2019

Met Eireann warns of sub-zero temperatures this week

Met Éireann is warning of sub-zero temperatures and wintry showers this week. Unsettled weather is forecast over the coming days with sleet and snow on higher ground on Wednesday and Thursday. Night time temperatures will fall to as low as minus two degrees.…

Nov 11, 2019

Achill Says Welcome - meet to ensure the message goes out that everyone is welcome on the island

A silent, 24.7 vigil is continuing outside the Achill Head Hotel in Keel where asylum seekers are due to be housed in emergency accommodation. News of the hotel becoming an emergency accommodation centre for asylum seekers came as a surprise to islanders on…

Nov 11, 2019

Mayo GAA row to be raised this afternoon at the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council

The ongoing controversy between Mayo GAA county Board and Mayo GAA International Supporters Foundation looks set to be raised at today’s monthly meeting of Mayo County Council. Ballina Independent councillor Mark Duffy , intends to raise the matter in the…

Nov 11, 2019

Deputy wants increase in the garda drugs unit in Mayo

While the number of gardai assigned to the traffic corps in the Mayo garda division has doubled over the last three years, the number of gardai assigned to the drugs unit over the same period has remained the same, according to Mayo Fianna Fail deputy Dara…

Nov 11, 2019

Sligo man died after taking part in Westport Sea 2 Summit Challenge at the weekend

A 54-year-old county Sligo man died suddenly after taking part in the Westport Sea 2 Summit challenge on Saturday. JP Duffy, Bunnacranagh, Curry, Co. Sligo, a successful entrepreneur, became ill on the latter stages of the endurance challenge. His funeral…

Nov 11, 2019

Commissioner urges councillors to report online abuse and threats against them to the the gardai

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris urged elected councillors in county Mayo if they are on the receiving end of online threats and abuse on social media to immediately inform gardai. Commissioner Harris told a meeting of Mayo Joint Policing Committee (JPC) in…

Nov 10, 2019

Three year delay in approving planning permission for a house in South Mayo criticised by Councillor

A 3-year delay in approving planning permission for a house in south Mayo has been criticised by a local councillor. At this week's meeting of the Claremorris / Swinford Municipal District, FG Councillor Patsy O'Brien proposed a part 8 planning for a four-bed…

Nov 10, 2019

Mayo Senator calling for national discussion on eating disorders

A national discussion is needed on our approach to preventing eating disorders and supporting young people who suffer from an eating disorder, according to Mayo Fine Gael Senator Michelle Mulherin. Senator Mulherin raised her concerns in the Seanad after data…

Nov 10, 2019

Broadband Operators ready to challenge the National Broadband Plan

Broadband operators say they will challenge the National Broadband Plan if the government signs off on a multi-million euro rural internet scheme. Some operators say they will bring a challenge on state aid grounds if the homes and businesses they serve…

Nov 09, 2019

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris says there will be more frontline Gardai in this region as part of new policing model

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris attended a meeting of the Mayo Joint Policing Committee in Castlebar yesterday. This was the first time ever that a commissioner attended a JPC meeting in Mayo. Commissioner Harris discussed the new Garda operating model, which…

Nov 09, 2019

Mayo Fianna Fail TD highlights massive under-spend in rural schemes

A Mayo Fianna Fail TD is highlighting the massive under-spend in rural schemes, despite a number of announcements in recent weeks of successful projects across Co Mayo. While welcoming any funding for Mayo communities, Deputy Dara Calleary says there's often…

Nov 09, 2019

The role of women in the struggle for Irish Independence to be discussed today in Galway

The role of women in the struggle for Irish Independence will be discussed today. A conference is taking place at NUI Galway focusing on the years 1918 to 1924. John Cunninhgham from NUI Galway's department of history says they'll also focus on the emergence…

Nov 09, 2019

Event taking place in Ballinamore tonight to welcome plans for a direct-provision centre in the town

An event is taking place in Co Leitrim tonight to welcome plans for a direct-provision centre in the town. Proposals to house more than 100 asylum-seekers in apartments in Ballinamore have been 'paused' after local opposition. But tonight's event in the town…

Nov 08, 2019

Free farmer health checks in Balla and Roscommon Marts this month

Free farmer health checks will be available at Balla Mart and Roscommon Mart later this month. The Irish Farmers Journal is offering farmers the opportunity to have their blood pressure checked, receive exercise and lifestyle advice, a completed personal…

Nov 08, 2019

Mayo Councillor proposes increased savings instead of GMA cuts to the Claremorris Municipal District

A proposal to cut the GMA funding allocated to Mayo's four municipal districts by half next year has caused heated exchanges at council meetings in Claremorris and Castlebar this week. The executive of Mayo County Council has proposed to halve the allocation…

Nov 08, 2019

Galway TD wants to change the laws of appeal to An Bord Pleanala

A Galway West TD wants the Government to reconsider strengthening the law so appellants to An Bord Pleanala are clearly identifiable. The Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government Eoghan Murphy rejected Deputy O’Cuiv’s call to change the current…

Nov 08, 2019

Mayo Senator calls for Government action to help families without a water supply

A Mayo Senator is calling for Government action to help Downpatrick families who have been without a water supply for over ten years. Fine Gael Senator Michelle Mulherin raised the issue of 17 Downpatrick families who must go to a pump in Ballycastle for…

Nov 08, 2019

Manager of Sligo hotel secures temporary High Court injunction against disciplinary hearing

The general manager of a Sligo hotel has secured a temporary High Court injunction, preventing what he claims is a flawed disciplinary hearing against him from proceeding. The injunction was secured by Fergal Ryan, general manager of the Clayton Hotel in…

Nov 08, 2019

SIPTU to meet IWA today following decision to close Cuisle centre in Donamon

SIPTU representatives will meet this afternoon with the Irish Wheelchair Association to seek details reasons for the proposed closure of the Cuisle accessible holiday resort in Dunamon. The IWA announced to staff at the Co Roscommon facility last Friday that…

Nov 08, 2019

Dáil ethics committee to proceed with investigation into voting controversy

The Dail ethics committee has decided to proceed with an investigation into the four Fianna Fail TDs caught up in the voting controversy - including Mayo's Lisa Chambers. The Irish Times reports that the Members' Interests Committee met yesterday and agreed…

Nov 08, 2019

Mayo winners at Food Awards Ireland 2019

A number of Mayo food businesses were among the winners at the 2019 Food Awards Ireland, presented in Dublin earlier this week. The awards recognise the achievements of local suppliers, wholesalers, restaurants and chefs - among others involved in the…

Nov 08, 2019

High Court awards over €192,000 to woman hit by minibus wing-mirror in Galway

A woman who was injured when she was hit by the wing mirror of a minibus as she crossed a road in Galway has been awarded more than €192,000 by the High Court. Ms Justice Bronagh O'Hanlon said there had been "a stark transformation" in Aideen O'Kelly's…

Nov 08, 2019

Eight years after modular extension proposed for Mayo University Hospital, the HSE is "still considering the application"

It's eight years since a modular extension was proposed for the Emergency Department at Mayo University Hospital, but the Government has not yet approved the plan - according to Mayo Fianna Fail TD Lisa Chambers. Due to ongoing overcrowding in the Emergency…

Nov 08, 2019

Castlebar Municipal Councillors unanimously oppose plans to cut GMA funding for next year by half

Councillors in the Castlebar Municipal District have unanimously opposed plans to cut by half their GMA - General Municipal Allocation. The executive of Mayo County Council has proposed to halve the allocation to the four Municipal Districts - from €2.1…

Nov 07, 2019

Sligo TD calls for the provisional payment of overdue agricultural schemes to farmers

A Sligo TD has called on the Government to pay farmers the majority of their agricultural payments which are now overdue. Fianna Fail TD Eamon Scanlon raised the issue in the Dail in regards to the Areas of Natural Constraints Scheme and the Basic Payments…

Nov 07, 2019

Students from two Mayo schools are through to the Money Smarts Challenge final

Teams from Ballinrobe Community School and Davitt College in Castlebar will represent Mayo in the Bank of Ireland Money Smarts Challenge grand final in Dublin next April. The Ballinrobe and Castlebar students won the Mayo final in Breaffy House Hotel earlier…

Nov 07, 2019

Forza will launch a Traveller Equality Network in Sligo to highlight issues facing the community

Many of the issues facing the Traveller community in the workplace will be highlighted at an event in Sligo this Saturday. The Fórsa trade union will launch its Traveller Equality Network in Sligo Town Hall at 11am on Saturday morning, and the event will be…

Nov 07, 2019

Sinn Fein Councillor calls for proposed N17 Knock to Collooney project to be a dual-carriageway

A Charlestown Councillor has welcomed the N17 Knock to Collooney Project but has stated that it needs to be a dual carriageway as opposed to a single carriageway. Improvements to the existing N17 Knock to Collooney National primary route have been established…

Nov 07, 2019

Solicitors gather for two-day legal conference in Castlebar

Solicitors from across the region have gathered in Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar for a legal conference taking place over today and tomorrow. Over 130 local solicitors are attending the Connaught Solicitors' Symposium, which is organised by the Law Society…

Nov 07, 2019

Roscommon TD "not hopeful" for future of Cuisle centre in Donamon

A Roscommon TD says he's not too hopeful for the future of the Cuisle Centre in Donamon, after raising the issue on two occasions yesterday with the Minister for Disabilities Finian McGrath. Minister McGrath met yesterday afternoon with Oireachtas members…

Nov 07, 2019

Five projects from 4 Mayo schools qualify for BT Young Scientist Exhibition

Five projects from four schools in Mayo have qualified for the 2020 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition. This will be the 57th year of the event, which takes place at Dublin's RDS in January. Nationally, 550 projects involving over 1100 students have…

Nov 07, 2019

New premises sought in Castlebar for Alzheimers Day Care Centre

A new premises is being sought in Castlebar for the Alzheimers Day Care Centre. Currently, the day care centre operates 5 days per week from a rented house at Gladesville in Castlebar, but the lease is up next March, and a suitable building is now being…

Nov 07, 2019

Ballina native Dr Norah Patten among writers shortlisted for 2019 Irish Book Awards

Ballina native Dr Norah Patten is among the writers shortlisted for the 2019 An Post Irish Book Awards for her book "Shooting for the Stars - My Journey to Becoming Ireland's First Astronaut". Norah's book is one of 6 shortlisted in the Children's Book of the…

Nov 07, 2019

Works start this morning on N26 road out of Foxford - delays can be expected

Overlay works will start this morning on the N26 Ballina road out of Foxford, which will cause significant delays to traffic, according to Foxford-based Councillor Neil Cruise. Crews will begin work this morning on the stretch of road from the bridge on the…

Nov 07, 2019

Two men plead not guilty to raping woman at a party in Co Leitrim

A Leitrim woman has told a trial that she awoke twice from a drunken blackout to find two men raping her. The alleged rapes took place at the end of a party in a flat in a Co. Leitrim town. The two Leitrim men have pleaded not guilty to rape at a place in the…

Nov 07, 2019

No increase in personnel assigned to Mayo drugs unit in past 8 years

There has been no increase over the past 8 years in the number of personnel assigned to the drugs unit in the Mayo Garda Division. Only 5 Garda personnel are assigned to the unit, according to Mayo Fianna Fail TD Dara Calleary, who claims drugs are…

Nov 06, 2019

Exhibition in Galway to showcase local people overcoming challenges

A new photography and film exhibition will be officially opened tomorrow at the Galway City Museum , which tells the story of a number of vulnerable people from the Mayo and Galway areas who have overcome challenges to lead a life of their own choosing in the…

Nov 06, 2019

Sligo University Hospital is the 4th most overcrowded in Ireland today

Sligo University Hospital is the 4th most-overcrowded hospital in the country today, with 42 patients on trolleys. There are 21 patients on trolleys at both University Hospital Galway and Portiuncla in Ballinasloe, with 13 people waiting for a bed at Mayo…

Nov 06, 2019

IWA called upon to meet Government Officials to discuss the Cuisle Centre's closure

Roscommon-Galway TD Eugene Murphy’s Oireachtas meeting into the Cuisle Centre reveals Government shock over the facilities closure by the Irish Wheelchair Association. Minister Finian McGrath revealed at a special meeting of the Oireachtas this afternoon that…

Nov 06, 2019

Roscommon Gardai appeal for witnesses to Ballaghaderreen break-in

Roscommon Gardai are appealing for witnesses after a break-in at the home of an elderly couple in Ballaghadereen. An elderly resident in the Kilcolman Estate noticed noises while watching TV last Saturday at 8:40pm. The intruder has been described as a male…

Nov 06, 2019

Aran Islands RNLI respond to two medical evacuations on different islands

Aran Islands RNLI responded to consecutive calls for help today, carrying out two medical evacuations. The volunteer crew were first asked to launch their all-weather lifeboat David Kirkaldy, at 11.25am by the Irish Coast Guard. An elderly man required…

Nov 06, 2019

Missing Galway teenager found safe and well

Gardai have confirmed that a teenager missing from her home in Galway city has been located safe and well. An appeal was made last week, and again yesterday, for information on the whereabouts of 17-year old Linda Mhelembe, who was missing since 23rd October.…

Nov 06, 2019

42 patients on trolleys today at Sligo University Hospital

Sligo University Hospital is the 4th most-overcrowded hospital in the country today, with 42 patients on trolleys. There are 21 patients on trolleys at both University Hospital Galway and Portiuncla in Ballinasloe, with 13 people waiting for a bed at Mayo…

Nov 06, 2019

Two people due in court following Roscommon drugs seizure

Two people are due in court, after 170,000 euro worth of drugs was seized in Roscommon town yesterday. Searches were conducted at a number of houses in Roscommon under warrant, and Gardaí found cannabis and cocaine with an estimated street value of over…

Nov 06, 2019

Man goes on trial for murder of Matt Kivlehan in Sligo in 2015

A man has gone on trial for the murder of Martin "Matt" Kivlehan in Sligo four years ago. 32-year old Keith Brady of Cartron Estate, Sligo is charged with murdering Mr Kivlehan at New Apartments, Holborn Street, Sligo between 2nd and 3rd August 2015. Mr Brady…

Nov 06, 2019

Mayo & Galway companies among winners at Irish Times Innovation Awards

Mayo and Galway companies were among the winners at the Irish Times Innovation Awards last night. PEL Waste Reduction Equipment based in Balla won the award in the Manufacturing & Design category for its innovative solar-powered street bin. The award in the…

Nov 06, 2019

Almost €6.5 million allocated for 3 Mayo projects under Rural Regeneration Funds

Funding of almost €6.5 million is being announced today for three major projects in Co Mayo, under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund. The Mayo-based Minister for Rural & Community Development Michael Ring will today announce a national package of…

Nov 06, 2019

Galway Gardai appeal for information on 63-year old missing man

Gardai in Galway are seeking assistance from the public in tracing a 63-year old man who missing from his home in Rahoon. Kevin McGrath was last seen on Sunday week last 27th October in Eyre Square, Galway. He's described as 5' 10" in height of slim build,…

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