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

Jan 21, 2020

People Before Profit Mayo candidate wants pension age restored to 65

As the general election campaign continues, pension age has become a controversial topic. Fine Gael is proposing the increase the age for a state pension to 67 next year, and 68 by 2028. People Before Profit's election candidate in Mayo Joe Daly has described…

Jan 21, 2020

Discovery of elderly man's body near Killala "not suspicious"

The body of an elderly man was discovered at a house near Killala this morning. Gardai were alerted shortly before 11am when the 91-year old man was found dead at a house in Ballinteen. The area was sealed off while a Garda forensic unit conducted preliminary…

Jan 21, 2020

Body of an elderly man discovered at a house in Killala this morning

The body of a man was discovered at a house outside Killala this morning. Gardai were alerted at about ten to 11 this morning when the 91 year old man was found dead in the house. The area has been sealed off and a garda forensic unit is conducting…

Jan 21, 2020

Castlebar Cathaoirleach condemns HSE failure to provide Home Help for approved applicants in Mayo

Sixteen days into 2020, there was no funding left in the Home Help service budget for patients in county Mayo. Home Help packages from the HSE allow many people to live in their own homes rather than having to go into a nursing home, or district hospital. The…

Jan 21, 2020

Meeting in Castlebar tonight on second Mayo Cataract Bus to Belfast

A public meeting will take place at 8pm this evening (Tuesday) in the TF Royal Hotel, Castlebar to finalise details for the second Mayo cataract bus to Belfast this weekend. This is an initiative by Aontú general election candidate in Mayo Paul Lawless, who's…

Jan 21, 2020

Visiting restrictions lifted at Roscommon University Hospital

Visiting restrictions have been lifted at Roscommon University Hospital. The restrictions were put in place last week, due to the high number of patients with flu. While the visiting restrictions have now been lifted, management are reminding the public that…

Jan 21, 2020

41 new jobs created in Mayo Gaeltacht last year, says Udarás

41 new jobs were created in the Mayo Gaeltacht last year, according to the Udaras na Gaeltachta end of year report, which was a net increase of 18 jobs compared to the previous year. At the end of 2019, client companies of Údarás provided 675 full- time jobs…

Jan 21, 2020

Connacht winners at the 2020 Irish Wedding Awards

A number of local wedding service providers were among the winners at the 2020 Irish Wedding Awards in Dublin yesterday. This is the 4th year of the awards, which celebrate the best wedding businesses and suppliers. U2R1 Wedding Cars in Claremorris again won…

Jan 21, 2020

A body was recovered from the water at Enniscrone yesterday

A body was recovered from the water at Enniscrone beach yesterday afternoon. A member of the public, walking the beach at about 1.30 pm yesterday made the discovery and alerted the gardai. Extensive searches have been underway for a woman who went missing…

Jan 21, 2020

Man due before Galway court this morning in connection with 50,000 drug seizure on Sunday last

A 27 year old man is to appear before a sitting of Derrynea District Court, County Galway at 10.30 this morning in connection with a €50,000 drug seizure in Galway City on Sunday last. A second man in his 30s, who was also arrested in connection with the…

Jan 21, 2020

IFA and An Taisce differ over carbon efficiency of Irish farm practices

The Irish Farmer's Association says farmers are tired of being kicked around and scape-goated when it comes to climate action. It is holding an event today in an effort to address some of the issues. The 'Climate Action in Agriculture - A Balanced Approach'…

Jan 21, 2020

School secretaries due at the talks table today over two-tier pay system

School secretaries are due at the talks table today in their dispute about what they say is a two tier pay system. They currently earn around 12,500 euro a year without holiday pay and pensions. This includes many school secretaries in this region. They say…

Jan 21, 2020

Latest opinion poll indicates drop in support for Fine Gael

The latest political opinion poll has seen a sharp rise in support for Sinn Féin. Fine Gael's support has fallen significantly, while Fianna Fáil looks set to be the largest party in the next Dáil. This poll shows just 4 per cent separating the top three…

Jan 20, 2020

Erris residents concerned about GP services after 1st Feb

Residents in Erris are increasingly fearful that parts of the region will be left without a GP from the start of next month. The Bangor / Geesala / Glenamoy areas face being without a doctor when the current locum takes up a position in Laherdane on 1st…

Jan 20, 2020

Séan Wynne to run as Independent candidate in Sligo -Leitrim

As the general election campaign heats up, another Independent candidate has thrown his hat in the ring in the Sligo-Leitrim constituency. Sean Wynne from Drumshanbo, Co Leitrim , unsuccessfully contested the local elections in Leitrim last year. Mr Wynne - a…

Jan 20, 2020

Mayo's Michael Biggins elected new Chairman of IFA National Rural Development Committee

Mayo's Michael Biggins has been elected new Chairman of the IFA National Rural Development Committee. Mr Biggins - a suckler beef farmer from Glencorrib in south Mayo - has been involved in the IFA for over 20 years, and previously served as Mayo County…

Jan 20, 2020

Galway Gardai seize substantial amount of cocaine and cash

Gardai in Galway have seized a substantial amount of cash and cocaine in Galway city. Last night, at about 7.40pm, Gardai from the Divisional Drugs Unit in Galway stopped and searched a car on the M6 motorway near Loughrea where over €17,000 cash was seized.…

Jan 20, 2020

HSE appointing two new managers every week, while hospital staff struggling, says Mayo TD

521 patients are being treated on trolleys at hospitals across the country. Cork University Hospital is the worst affected facility, with 56 people waiting for beds, according to the INMO. That's followed by 50 at both University Hospital Galway and…

Jan 20, 2020

276,000 euro in funding for Ballyheane NS, Castlebar

Fine Gael General Election candidate in Mayo Alan Dillon has announced that Ballyheane National School, Castlebar, has been approved 276,000 euro in funding for an additional classroom, ensuite facility and a further special education teaching classroom. The…

Jan 20, 2020

Ballina councillor confirms he will not contest the General Election

The first full week of general election campaigning is underway, with education and health on the agenda. Fine Gael will be looking to get back on track after an opinion poll over the weekend had Fianna Fáil twelve points clear at the top. Sinn Fein placed…

Jan 20, 2020

Young people urged to register to vote in the General Election by Wednesday

Young people across the region are being urged to log onto checktheregister.ie to make sure they're able to vote in the general election. Anyone who is 18 years old on or before the 8th of February is eligible for inclusion in the updated voters list. The…

Jan 20, 2020

Irish Rail says a mechanical fault caused long delays for passengers on board the train close to Castlebar yesterday

Passengers on the Dublin to Westport train yesterday evening were stuck onboard for two hours when it broke down near Castlebar. The train had left Dublin at 20 to to 2 on Sunday afternoon and broke down at ten to five. Service resumed shortly before 7pm.…

Jan 20, 2020

Woman due before Athlone District Court this morning in connection with drug seizure

Gardaí in Athlone investigating the seizure of cannabis herb on Saturday evening last in the area, with an estimated value of €75,000 have charged a woman that they arrested at the scene. The 34 year old woman had been detained at Athlone Garda Station is due…

Jan 19, 2020

Enterprise Ireland offers funding to food and drink start-up companies

Enterprise Ireland is offering funding of up to €35,000 for food and drink start-up companies, and are inviting companies in the West of Ireland to apply. The Food Works Programme, which is jointly run by Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, is…

Jan 19, 2020

NUIG researchers discover flame-retardant chemicals in the breast milk of Irish mothers

NUI Galway researchers were part of a team who have found flame-retardant chemicals in the breast milk of Irish mothers. Scientists from NUIG, the University of Birmingham and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland concluded that the presence of the chemicals…

Jan 19, 2020

The Irish Patients Association calls for abolition of hospital parking fines.

The Irish Patients Association's calling for hospital parking charges to be abolished. It's after the latest figures show 11.7 million was made from parking at public hospitals last year, down from 12.8 million in 2017. Cork University Hospital collected 2.6…

Jan 19, 2020

Aer Arann Islands taxi service sold to Aer Nasc for an undisclosed sum

Outgoing independent senator Pádraig Ó Céidigh has sold regional airline Aer Arann Islands to Galway pilot Jarlath Conneely for an undisclosed sum. The Sunday Times reports that documents filed with the Companies Registration Office show Aer Nasc, a company…

Jan 19, 2020

Roscommon woman scoops first Winning Steak jackpot since 2011

Roscommon woman Michelle Morgan scooped the first jackpot on Winning Streak since 2011 last night. The 27-year-old from Fairymount was playing for her mother Mairead Cox, who bought her Winning Streak ticket in Supervalu Ballaghaderreen. Ms Morgan qualified…

Jan 19, 2020

Fianna Fail jumps 12 points ahead of Fine Gael in latest election opinion poll

Fianna Fail has opened up a 12 point lead on Fine Gael according to the latest opinion poll. Published in the Sunday Times, it's the first since campaigning started in the general election and is a timely boost for Micheal Martin, but disastrous for the…

Jan 18, 2020

Thousands of teachers set to strike on February 4th

Thousands of teachers are set to strike early next month in their ongoing dispute over pay inequality. The Teacher’s Union of Ireland (TUI) said under the current system, teachers employed after January 2011 are set to earn around €110,000 less than their…

Jan 18, 2020

Protest in Westport today to help save the McBride Nursing Home

A protest is taking place in Westport on today to help save the local McBride Nursing Home. The demonstration gets underway at the Octagon at 2 p.m., and aims to highlight the scaling back of services at the facility The respite and day-care services at the…

Jan 18, 2020

Icy road conditions across the west this morning

The cold conditions experienced this morning are likely to continue throughout the weekend. A status yellow low temperature warning from Met Eireann was issued for Connacht and Leinster up to 11am this morning - with temperatures as low as minus four recorded…

Jan 18, 2020

Man to appear in Court in Sligo today in connection with €100,000 drugs seizure

A man is due before the courts in Sligo in connection to the seizure of 100,000 thousand euro worth of cannabis. The discovery was made at a house in Ballymote on Thursday - where a sum of cash was also recovered. A man in his 30s had been arrested following…

Jan 17, 2020

Status yellow ice warning in place for Connacht until late tomorrow morning

A status yellow low temperature and ice warning will be in place from 6 o'clock in Leinster and Connacht. Met Eireann is forecasting temperatures to dip as low as minus four in places. The alert will run until 11am tomorrow morning. Liz Gavin is a forecaster…

Jan 17, 2020

Deputy Scanlon urges families of children with special needs to take part in national survey

The National Council for Special Education is conducting a survey at present to assess the educational needs of children with special needs. According to Sligo based Fianna Fail deputy Eamon Scanlon, it’s very important that parents and guardians of children…

Jan 17, 2020

Councillor Donagh Killilea added to the Galway East Fianna Fail ticket

Councillor Donagh Killilea will join sitting TD Anne Rabbitte on the Fianna Fáil ticket in Galway East. The party will now run two candidates in the three seat constituency where sitting TDs Ciaran Cannon and Seán Canney are fighting to retain their seats.…

Jan 17, 2020

Woman taken to hospital after her car overturned on icy conditions this morning in Ballina

A woman has been taken to hospital after her car overturned in icy conditions this morning in Ballina. The incident happened on Church road in the town just after 9am. Emergency services attended the scene and the woman was taken to hospital with non-life…

Jan 17, 2020

Man arrested in Sligo following drugs seizure

A man in his thirties has been arrested following a drugs seizure in Sligo yesterday. As part of an ongoing investigation into drug dealing in the area, Gardaí searched a property is Castle Burn, Ballymote, where around €100,000 worth of cannabis was found. A…

Jan 17, 2020

Lunchtime Election Debates on Midwest Radio from Monday 27th January

Midwest Radio will begin Lunchtime Election Debates (1-2pm) from Monday January 27th through to the 7th of February.If you are a General Election candidate in this region please let us know that you are putting your name on the ballot paper.We are keen to…

Jan 17, 2020

Aontu candidate Paul Lawless says farmers protesting on the motorway did so out of desperation

Individual Farmers of Ireland protested yesterday and the day before in Dublin city centre over the price they are securing for their cattle and the government’s efforts to address what they term “a beef crisis”. However, the Dail is no longer in session, as…

Jan 17, 2020

The death toll from flu this winter has risen to 44, with people over 65 the worst hit by the virus

The death toll from flu this winter has risen to 44, with people over 65 the worst hit by the virus. Flu is still widespread and circulating at a high level, but rates have fallen - although it is posing a greater threat to older people who are more likely to…

Jan 17, 2020

Record number of visitors to the North Mayo Heritage Centre at Emiscoe in 2019

2019 was another record year for The North Mayo Heritage Centre at Enniscoe House Crossmolina, with a record breaking number of visitors to the facility. 24,000 visitors were recorded during the year which represents an 18% increase on the previous year. In…

Jan 17, 2020

Funding approved for nine Broadband Connection Points in Mayo

Funding has been approved for 9 Broadband Connection Points in Mayo, to ensure the locations are ready to receive high-speed broadband, as part of the rollout of the National Broadband Plan. Minister Michael Ring has allocated €600 each for 319 locations…

Jan 17, 2020

Mayo TD describes as strange the suggestion from new HSE Chief Officer that there should be fewer hospital emergencies

A Mayo TD has described as "strange" a suggestion by the new HSE Chief Executive Officer that there should be fewer hospital Emergency Departments. At a time when hospitals are experiencing record over-crowding, Mayo Fianna Fail TD Dara Calleary says the…

Jan 17, 2020

More than 191,000 penalty-point notices were issued to drivers in 2019, an increase of 14,000 on the year previous

More than 191,000 penalty-point notices were issued to drivers last year. It's an increase of over 14,000 on 2018. The figures have been released by the Department of Transport under the Freedom of Information Act. 191,104 penalty point notices were issued to…

Jan 16, 2020

Farmers protest moves to Dublin Port and the M50

There's major traffic disruption in Dublin this evening as farmers continue their protest at Dublin Port. Around 100 tractors are blocking East Wall Road and North Wall Quay in a demonstration over beef prices. The protesting farmers are expected to head home…

Jan 16, 2020

€98,000 allocated for 12 social enterprise groups in Co Mayo

12 social enterprise groups in Co Mayo are to share funding totalling €98,000 allocated under the Small Capital Grants scheme. The scheme is funded under the Dormant Accounts Fund, and €1 million was allocated in December to groups nationally. The Minister…

Jan 16, 2020

Local campaign group disappointed at capital funding allocated for R312 Castlebar-Erris road

The action group campaigning for improvements to the R312 road between Castlebar and Erris have expressed disappointment at the funding being provided under Mayo County Council's capital programme over the next 3 years. Under the capital programme for…

Jan 16, 2020

Flybe services to and from Ireland West Airport Knock to continue as normal, after rescue deal agreed

Flybe services between Ireland West Airport Knock and the UK cities of Birmingham, Edinburgh and Manchester will continue to operate as normal, after ministers agreed on Tuesday night to a rescue deal to keep the airline flying. The package of measures…

Jan 16, 2020

Information on supplement to the register of electors

With the election campaign now underway, Mayo County Council says voters who wish to be included in the supplement to the Postal and Special Voters list have until 5 pm THIS EVENING (Thursday)to apply. For those who are not registered to vote, the closing…

Jan 16, 2020

Ballina councillors call for a seal cull in Killala bay to deal with decline in Salmon numbers

Ballina councillors yesterday agreed to send a letter to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine calling for a cull of seals in Killala Bay. In a Ballina Municipal District council meeting Cathaoirleach Michael Loftus called for a cull of the…

Jan 16, 2020

Farmers continuing to protest in Dublin this morning

Commuters in Dublin face travel disruption this morning, as a tractor protest by beef farmers continues. Hundreds of demonstrators descended on the capital yesterday, with many sleeping in their tractors overnight. Gardaí have closed Kildare Street,…

Jan 16, 2020

Status Yellow wind warning in place across Mayo & Galway

Eight coastal counties are on alert this morning as strong winds hit the country. Four status yellow warnings are in place, with Met Eireann predicting gusts of 110 kilometres per hour, as well as coastal flooding. The affected counties are Mayo, Galway,…

Jan 16, 2020

Two men have been arrested in Ballyhaunis after a stolen car was recovered and a significant amount of counterfeit €20 notes seized

Two men have been arrested in Ballyhaunis after a stolen car was recovered and a significant amount of counterfeit €20 notes seized. This follows on from a substantial amount of fake €20 notes passed through a number of business premises in Ballinrobe and…

Jan 15, 2020

Hundreds of farmers protesting in Dublin this evening

Four hours into this latest 24 hour protest by beef farmers and contractors but already the disruption is being felt. Roads are closed around Kildare Street, Molesworth Street, St Stephen's Green and Merrion Square and now more tractors have arrived into…

Jan 15, 2020

Dissolution of Dáil marks end of Enda Kenny's 45 years in Dáil Eireann

The campaign for General Election 2020 is underway, with Fine Gael, Fianna Fail and the Green Party officially launching their campaigns today. The 32nd Dáil was dissolved yesterday, with the Taoiseach announcing that polling day is on Saturday February 8th…

Jan 15, 2020

Consultants appointed for development of Digital Hub in Ballina

Consultants have been appointed by Mayo County Council for the development of the Digital Hub at the former military barracks in Ballina. Last year, the Government committed funding of €3.2 million to develop the Ballina Digital Hub and Innovation Quarter,…

Jan 15, 2020

Mayo Road Safety Office appeal on election posters

Mayo County Council's road safety office has issued an appeal to those contesting the upcoming election, over election posters. With strong winds forecast over the coming days, the road safety office is urging candidates not to hang banners and posters from…

Jan 15, 2020

UHG most overcrowded hospital in the country with 63 patients on trolleys

University Hospital Galway is the most-overcrowded hospital in the country today, with 63 patients on trolleys, according to the latest figures from the INMO. Across the country, 527 patients are being treated on trolleys, including 63 at UHG, 25 at Mayo…

Jan 15, 2020

Protest in Westport on Saturday over scaling back of services at MacBride Community Nursing Home

A protest will take place in Westport this Saturday afternoon, to highlight the scaling back of services at the town's MacBride Community Nursing Unit. In recent months, both the respite and daycare services at the HSE-run home have been suspended, with staff…

Jan 15, 2020

Yellow wind warning in place until 6pm for Mayo, Galway & Donegal

Met Eireann is warning of gusts of up to 100 kilometres an hour on the west coast today. A yellow wind warning is in place for Galway, Mayo and Donegal until six o'clock this evening, with Met Eireann also warning of a risk of coastal flooding around the…

Jan 15, 2020

Two-day tractor protest gets underway in Dublin later over beef prices and other issues

About 400 tractors will drive into Dublin city centre this afternoon, with farmers travelling from across the region to the capital for a two-day protest. Individual farmers are taking part in the demonstration, as part of their ongoing campaign over beef…

Jan 14, 2020

Deputy Murphy shocked by addition of Councillor Leydon to the Roscommon/Galway Fianna Fail ticket

Deputy Eugene Murphy has expressed his shock at the addition of Cllr Orla Leyden to the Fianna Fáil ticket in Roscommon/Galway, claiming he was told by Cllr Leyden and Senator Terry Leyden that she was not going to run to help retain the Fianna Fail seat in…

Jan 14, 2020

PBP select Joe Daly as their General Election candidate for the Mayo constituency

People Before Profit have selected Joe Daly as their candidate to run in the upcoming Dáil election in the Mayo constituency. Mr Daly is a secondary school teacher in Castlebar and ran for the party in the local elections 2019. PBP are advocating policies…

Jan 14, 2020

Met Eireann issues a status yellow wind warning for Mayo and Galway tonight

Met Eireann has issued a Status Yellow Wind warning for Galway, Mayo and Donegal. West to Southwest winds 50 to 65 km/hr gusts 90 to 100 km/hr with risk of coastal flooding around the period of high tides. The warning comes into effect tonight at 10pm and is…

Jan 14, 2020

General election to take place on Saturday 8th February

Saturday 8th February has been confirmed as the date for the general election. As anticipated, Taoiseach Leo Varadker named the date at this morning's Cabinet meeting but has taken many by surprise with the selection of a Saturday for polling day. The…

Jan 14, 2020

Orla Leyden added to Fianna Fail election ticket in Roscommon-Galway

In the Roscommon-Galway constituency, Councillor Orla Leyden has been added to the Fianna Fail ticket, to run alongside Deputy Eugene Murphy. Daughter of Senator and former TD Terry Leyden, Orla was elected to Roscommon County Council in 2004, and was…

Jan 14, 2020

Belmullet-Blacksod road not yet reopened, following storm damage

Mayo County Council says the R313 Belmullet-Blacksod road has not yet reopened, following damage caused by Storm Brendan. The road was due to reopen to single lane traffic at 8am this morning, however further damage was caused to a section of the road last…

Jan 14, 2020

Marian Harkin to contest general election in Sligo-Leitrim

Ministers are meeting this morning in what's likely to be the last cabinet meeting of this Government. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is expected to outline his plans for holding a general election. A senior Fine Gael source has told Midwest News that they expect the…

Jan 14, 2020

Gardai attend scene of minor collision in Castlebar town centre

Gardai attended the scene of a minor collision in Castlebar town centre this morning. It's understood two cars were involved in a crash at the junction of Main Street and Market Square. Gardai say no injuries were sustained in the incident.

Jan 14, 2020

CAO information evening at IT Sligo this evening

With the CAO application deadline looming on 1st February, IT Sligo is holding a CAO information evening this evening (Tuesday) from 5pm to 8.30. Leaving cert students and their parents, and mature students are invited to the event which includes talks and…

Jan 14, 2020

Man due in court following Co Galway drugs seizure

A man is due in court this morning in relation to a drug seizure in Co Galway earlier this month. Heroin with an estimated street value of 140-thousand euro was seized after a car was searched in Loughrea on January 3rd. A 41 year old man was arrested at the…

Jan 14, 2020

Visiting restrictions in place at Roscommon University Hospital

Visiting restrictions are in place on inpatient wards at Roscommon University Hospital, due to an increase in the number of patients with flu. The public are asked not to visit, in an effort to prevent the spread of flu. General Manager of Roscommon…

Jan 14, 2020

Areas of Sligo and Galway without power this morning following Storm Brendan

Thousands of homes and businesses remain without power this morning after Storm Brendan. Its strong winds and heavy rain caused power cuts, fallen trees and flooding when it hit yesterday. The ESB says at the peak of the storm in the afternoon, about…

Jan 13, 2020

Status orange wind warning extended to midnight tonight in Western coastal counties

The Status Orange wind warning for Mayo, Galway, Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal has been extended until midnight tonight. Met Eireann says that, as Storm Brendan tracks away from Ireland, southwesterly winds will gust to between 100 and 130 km/h, higher in…

Jan 13, 2020

Group from Knock travelling to Rome to take part in special Mass celebrated by Pope Francis

A group of about 130 people from the Knock area are travelling to Rome later this month to take part in a special Mass celebrated by Pope Francis. The new processional statue of Our Lady of Knock, which was unveiled at last year's Novena to mark the 140th…

Jan 13, 2020

Donal Tierney appointed new CEO of Aurivo Co-Op

Aurivo Co-op has announced the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer, to replace former CEO Aaron Forde who stepped down just before Christmas after over 15 years in the job. Donal Tierney, who has been Chief Financial Officer of Aurivo for the past 8…

Jan 13, 2020

Storm Brendan rages across Connacht, with gusts of 100 km/h recorded in Belmullet

Storm Brendan is raging across Connacht, with a status orange wind warning in place until 9 o'clock tonight. The West coast is bearing the brunt of the storm so far today, with gusts of 100 km/hour recorded in Belmullet at 10am this morning, and higher gusts…

Jan 13, 2020

The R313 Blacksod to Belmullet road will remain closed today due to storm damage

Mayo County Council has told Midwest News that the R313 Regional Road from Blacksod to Belmullet will remain closed for the duration of today. The extended closure time is as a result of damage which appears to have been caused to a section of the road as a…

Jan 13, 2020

Storm Brendan begins to cause travel disruption across the region

Storm Brendan has caused widespread travel disruption to air travel across the country. Ireland West Airport Knock is open today but three morning flights from the UK have had to divert to Dublin due to the high winds. This in turn has meant their outgoing…

Jan 13, 2020

30,000 euro in government funding announced for Colaiste Uisce Teo, Aughleam

Almost 30,000 euro in funding has been announced today for Coláiste Uisce Teo , Aughleam, in north Mayo. Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring has confirmed that funding of €29,753 has been approved for the facility. The Minister says it…

Jan 13, 2020

The Taoiseach looks set to go to the polls next month

A general election is expected to be called this week as Taoiseach Leo Varadkar today meets Boris Johnson in Belfast. The two leaders will meet at Stormont days ahead of the likely start of the election campaign. Almost four years of speculation about an…

Jan 13, 2020

Efforts are continuing to locate a missing Crossmolina woman

Gardaí in Ballina are continuing their efforts to locate a Crossmolina woman missing for a number of days now. Patricia O’Donnell, aged 61 years, was last seen on Tuesday (7th January) in the town of Crossmolina, a member of her family last heard from her on…

Jan 13, 2020

RSA advises road users to take due caution as storm Brendan hits

The Road Safety Authority (RSA), is advising road users to exercise caution while using the roads today as Met Eireann has issued Orange weather warnings for strong winds and risk of coastal flooding for most of the country due to storm Brendan. Met Eireann…

Jan 12, 2020

Farmers will take to the streets of Dublin for a 48-hour tractor protest this week

Farmers from across the West will make their way to Dublin again next Wednesday for a tractor protest in the city centre. Individual farmers are taking the action to again highlight the poor prices being paid for beef, compared to prices in the UK, and say…

Jan 12, 2020

Gardai in Ballina are seeking assistance from the public in locating missing person Patricia O'Donnell

Gardaí in Ballina are seeking assistance from the public in locating the whereabouts of Patricia O’Donnell, 61 years, who was last seen on Tuesday, 7th January 2020 in the Crossmolina area, Co. Mayo. Patricia is described as being 5’ 2” in height, of slim…

Jan 12, 2020

Fianna Fail calls on the HSE to lift the recruitment freeze on mental health staff

There's a call on the HSE to lift the recruitment freeze on mental health staff. Fianna Fail TD James Browne says nearly 20 per cent of psychiatric nursing posts are unfilled. He's describing it as unacceptable, and having a negative impact on mental health…

Jan 12, 2020

Sligo and Leitrim contain the most affordable homes in the country according to property guide

The cost of houses outside Dublin are expected to rise at twice the rate of those in the capital this year. The latest 2020 Sunday Times National Property Price Guide shows nationally property prices are likely to rise by 3.8 per cent. The most affordable…

Jan 11, 2020

Met EIreann issues a status orange wind warning for counties across the West

Met Eireann has issued three weather warnings - including two orange alerts - as Storm Brendan makes its way towards Ireland. The Orange warnings are for wind and come into effect for all counties along the south and west coast from 7am on Monday. The…

Jan 11, 2020

Mayo councillor claims short-term contracts for staff has stopped the respite service at a Westport Nursing Unit

The Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council says he's very disappointed to learn that the respite service is no longer available at the MacBride Community Nursing Unit in Westport. The day care service at the nursing home has not been provided over the past…

Jan 11, 2020

LEADER funding of €300,000 approved for the rebuilding of the Town Hall

LEADER funding of €300,000 has been approved for the rebuilding of the Town Hall in Ballinrobe. The Town Hall will be rebuilt on the site of the original hall in Ballinrobe, and will provide a multi-purpose community facility, including a 430-seater…

Jan 11, 2020

Galway Deputy backing the childcare industry's call for a living wage to be introduced for all its staff

Fianna Fail's backing the childcare industry's call for a 'living wage' to be introduced for all of its staff. Providers, staff and parents are holding a national protest on February 5th over pay and staffing issues in the sector. SIPTU says early years…

Jan 11, 2020

Status Yellow rainfall warning in place for Connacht

There is extensive flooding on roads this morning following very heavy rain over the last 24 hours. Up to 50 millimetres of rain is likely to fall in parts of Ireland today, causing more localised flooding. A yellow rainfall warning is place for Connacht and…

Jan 10, 2020

Galway County Council refuses permit for a waste transfer station in Ballinasloe

Thousands of people in the local community of Ballinasloe have today won a battle against a permit to prevent a waste transfer station being located in the town. More than two thousand submissions objecting to the permit for the waste transfer station at the…

Jan 10, 2020

Mayo TD welcomes the return of 'Other Voices' music festival to Ballina

Mayo County Council has announced that the internationally renowned Other Voices music festival will return to Ballina at the end of February 2020. A Partnership between South Wind Blows, Moy Valley resources and Mayo County Council has enabled Other Voices…

Jan 10, 2020

The Government has allocated €10m for Connacht Rugby under the Large-Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund

Government has allocated Connacht Rugby €10 million in funding under the Large-Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund. The funding will provide for a third of the Sportsground redevelopment fund which is projected in the region of €30m and will have a capacity of…

Jan 10, 2020

The sod will be turned this afternoon on a new 6 million euro Hospice Unit in Roscommon

The sod will be turned this afternoon on a new 6 million euro Hospice Unit in Roscommon. When completed, the new facility will consist of Day Care, Community Care and an eight bed in-patient unit providing respite and end-of- life- services. The new hospice…

Jan 10, 2020

Have Your Say - is the message from Mayo County Council

Mayo County Council is inviting the general public to “have their say” as it is currently in the process of preparing the authority’s Corporate plan 2019 -2024. The Corporate Plan will set out the objectives around the organisation’s operational activity,…

Jan 10, 2020

More than a thousand students and parents set to attend Mayo Careers Fair in GMIT Castlebar tomorrow

The annual Mayo’s Careers Fair takes place tomorrow at GMIT’s Castlebar campus. Over 50 stands, including third-level and Post-Leaving Certificate colleges, apprenticeship providers, and employers have been confirmed for the event. Last year, in excess of…

Jan 10, 2020

Balla among the locations across the region where school secretaries are striking today

A series of rallies and strikes by school secretaries are taking place across the region today as part of a national day of action. Today’s action by school secretaries represented by Fórsa trade union is to be followed by a resumption of their work to rule,…

Jan 10, 2020

Two separate status Yellow warnings have been issued by Met Eireann for western counties this afternoon

Two separate status Yellow warnings have been issued by Met Eireann for western counties this afternoon. A status Yellow Wind warning comes into effect across counties Mayo, Galway, Donegal and Kerry from 3pm this afternoon with south to Southwest winds of 50…

Jan 09, 2020

Visiting restrictions at UHG due to increase in number of patients with flu

Visiting restrictions are being put in place at University Hospital Galway due to an increase in the number of patients with flu. The public are asked not to visit St Nicholas' Ward at the hospital, in an effort to prevent the spread of flu. In addition to…

Jan 09, 2020

13 Mayo DEIS schools to benefit from free books pilot scheme

The Education Minister has announced a new one million euro fund which aims to provide free books in primary schools. More than 15-thousand pupils across more than 100 DEIS schools are to benefit from the increased investment - including pupils at 13 primary…

Jan 09, 2020

Gardai release two people arrested in connection with attempted robbery and ramming Garda car

Two men arrested in connection with an attempted robbery and the ramming of a garda car in Mohill, Co Leitrim early yesterday morning have been released without charge, and a file is to be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions. A juvenile, aged in…

Jan 09, 2020

Status yellow rainfall warning for Mayo, Galway, Sligo & Donegal for Friday & Sat

A status yellow rainfall warning has been issued for Galway,Mayo, Sligo and Donegal for tomorrow and Saturday. Met Eireann is warning of heavy rain, with accumulations of 40-50 mm with localised flooding, and the warning is valid from 3pm Friday until 3pm…

Jan 09, 2020

NUI Galway sets out ambitious infrastructure plan for the coming years

NUI Galway has set out a plan to spend hundreds of millions of euro over the coming years in an investment strategy that will see the development of an innovation district, a new performance space, a library and new sports campus. NUIG, which currently has…

Jan 09, 2020

520 patients on hospital trolleys nationally today

There's been another drop in the number of patients waiting on trolleys at hospitals across the country. 520 people are without beds today, down from 621 yesterday, and a record high of 760 on Monday and Tuesday. University Hospital Limerick is the worst…

Jan 09, 2020

Elderly woman evacuated from her home in Ballyhaunis due to a blaze

2 Units of the Mayo Fire Service were called to a fire at house in Ballyhaunis yesterday evening. A passer-by spotted a glow through a window and contacted the fire service. The Fire Service responded within eight minutes and was able to confine the area to…

Jan 09, 2020

A man died outside the council offices in Swinford this morning

A man died outside the Council Offices in Swinford early this morning. At about 7.35 am the man was discovered on the street and attempts were made to resuscitate him and the ambulance was immediately called. Gardai in Claremorris have confirmed that they…

Jan 09, 2020

As speculation over a general election date intensifies Mayo Deputy Lisa Chambers, says her party Fianna fail want an Easter Election

We could find out later when the country will go to the polls for a general election. The Taoiseach and the Fianna Fail leader are meeting today to discuss when it could take place. Leo Varadkar wants it to be fixed for May, but Micheal Martin is pushing for…

Jan 09, 2020

Record passenger numbers through Ireland West Airport Knock in 2019

2019 was the busiest year on record at Ireland West Airport with passenger numbers climbing by almost 5% to 807,000 for the first time in the airports history. The figures represent the fourth consecutive year of record passenger growth at the airport.…

Jan 09, 2020

HSE says progress is being made in reducing the number of people on trolleys

The Chief Executive of the HSE says progress is being made in reducing the number of people on trolleys in Irish hospitals. 621 people were left on trolleys yesterday, while on Monday there were 760 people left without a bed - the largest number on record.…

Jan 09, 2020

Beef Plan Movement is in turmoil over financial and governance issues

The Irish Farmers Journal is reporting this morning that the Beef Plan Movement is in turmoil, with its national committee at war with its founders Hugh Doyle and Eamon Corley over financial and governance issues. Members of the national committee and a…

Jan 09, 2020

Councillor calling for lighting to be rectified at a new housing estate in Parke

A Fine Gael Councillor has called for the public lighting at a new housing estate in Parke to temper down the strength. Ger Deere says the new state of the art social housing is very welcome but the public lighting installed is so strong that it’s interfering…

Jan 08, 2020

Two men and a boy arrested while another remains on the run after attempted burglary in Leitrim

Two men and a boy have been arrested, while another person remains on the run, following an attempted burglary in Co. Leitrim. A Garda patrol car was rammed where the robbery was taking place at a supermarket and post office in Mohill early this morning. The…

Jan 08, 2020

Elective surgery cancelled at hospitals in the Saolta group, with the exception of a limited number of urgent cases

The number of patients on trolleys at hospitals nationwide has dropped, after record numbers over the past two days. Latest figures from the INMO show 621 people are waiting for beds today, down from 760 for the past two days. University Hospital Limerick…

Jan 08, 2020

Ice rink being dismantled on the Mall in Castlebar after another successful festive season

Mayo on Ice attracted some 20,000 people to the Mall in Castlebar over the festive season - with figures slightly down on last year. The ice rink is being dismantled today, with organisers saying it was another successful year for the event, and brought a lot…

Jan 08, 2020

Supervalu Westport sells Euromillions ticket worth almost €473,000

Supervalu in Westport has sold a winning ticket in the Euromillions draw. A ticket sold at the store won the second-highest prize in last night's Euromillions draw - and is worth almost €473,000. The holder has matched 5 numbers and one star to win the…

Jan 08, 2020

Pots of Fun, Claremorris to remain open under new ownership

A children's play and recreation centre in Claremorris, which was due to close its doors this week, is now remaining open under new ownership. Pots of Fun at the Lakeside Retail Park in Claremorris - an indoor soft play area and recreation centre for children…

Jan 08, 2020

Westport Gardai appeal for witnesses after pedestrian was injured before Christmas

Westport Gardai are seeking any witnesses to an incident that occurred just before Christmas in which a pedestrian was injured. The male pedestrian was injured near Carrowbeg Stores on the Castlebar Road in Westport at about 12.30 am on the morning of Monday…

Jan 08, 2020

KPMG to create new jobs in Galway and three other locations

Galway is in line for a jobs boost, as a professional services firm is creating 800 jobs across the country this year. KPMG says it's expanding due to strong demand for its services in Dublin, Belfast, Cork and Galway. The roles are in various areas of the…

Jan 08, 2020

Mayo TD welcomes Govt decision to defer commemoration of RIC

The Government has deferred controversial plans for a commemoration of the Royal Irish Constabulary. In a statement last night, the Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan says - given the disappointing response of some to the planned event on 17th January - it…

Jan 08, 2020

Students from four Mayo schools exhibit their projects at BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition

Students from four Mayo schools will be among over 1100 students taking their places at the RDS in Dublin today as the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition gets underway. Taoiseach Leo Varadker will officially open the exhibition this afternoon, and the…

Jan 08, 2020

Senator Maura Hopkins withdraws as FG election candidate in Roscommon-Galway

Roscommon Senator Maura Hopkins has withdrawn as a FG general election candidate for the Roscommon-Galway constituency. Senator Hopkins, who recently gave birth to her first baby, released a statement last night, saying she had taken time over Christmas to…

Jan 07, 2020

Killala's Brendan Golden elected Chairman of IFA National Livestock Committee

Mayo's Brendan Golden has been elected Chairman of the IFA's National Livestock Committee. The Killala man will succeed outgoing chairman Angus Woods at the IFA AGM on 27th January. The National Livestock Committee met in Portlaoise today to elect a new…

Jan 07, 2020

Mayo Co Co Cathaoirleach declines invitation to event to commemorate RIC

The Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council has declined an invitation to a controversial event being planned later this month, where the Government will commemorate members of the Royal Irish Constabulary and Dublin Metropolitan Police. The commemoration event…

Jan 07, 2020

Marian Finucane's funeral underway in Co Kildare

Marian Finucane has been described as an icon of Irish Broadcasting at her funeral mass in Co Kildare. Hundreds of mourners from the world of politics and public life have attended the funeral of the 69 year old who died suddenly on Thursday. Marian was a…

Jan 07, 2020

Mayo deputy describes conditions at MUH's ED as "inhumane"

For the second day in a row, there are 760 patients on hospital trolleys across the country today - matching yesterday's record figure. According to the INMO, Limerick is the worst-hit hospital with 75 patients on trolleys, followed by Galway University…

Jan 07, 2020

760 patients on trolleys across the country, for the second day in a row

For the second day in a row, there are 760 patients on hospital trolleys across the country today - matching yesterday's record figure. According to the INMO, Limerick is the worst-hit hospital with 75 patients on trolleys, followed by Galway University…

Jan 07, 2020

Landowners reminded of their obligation to ensure public ways are not obstructed by overgrown hedges and trees

Mayo County Council is reminding people that hedges and trees on the edge of private property are the responsibility of the occupier or owner. Greenery mustn't block road signs or street lights, or block views at junctions. In an effort to raise awareness on…

Jan 07, 2020

Gardai in Salthill appeal for witnesses after an elderly man was hit by a car in the city yesterdau

Yesterday (Monday) evening at approximately 5.20pm at Shangort Road, Galway, Gardaí were called to the scene of a serious road traffic collision involving a pedestrian and a car. The pedestrian, a male in his early 80s, was taken to University Hospital…

Jan 07, 2020

The death has occurred of veteran RTE DJ Larry Gogan

HE death has been announced of RTÈ broadcaster Larry Gogan. He was aged 81. He had worked for RTÈ for almost six decades and was best known for his work as a DJ with RTÈ2fm. Director General of RTÉ Dee Forbes described Larry Gogan as "a genuine national…

Jan 07, 2020

No planning permission yet sought for new ED at University Hospital Galway

Despite an ongoing overcrowding crisis at University Hospital Galway, planning permission has not yet been sought for the long promised new larger Emergency Department at the facility. Yesterday there were 47 patients waiting on trolleys for admission to UHG,…

Jan 07, 2020

N26 closed to traffic about 4km, the Ballina side of Foxford due to a collision

Gardai in Ballina are advising motorists that the N26 road between Ballina and Foxford is closed to traffic at present about 4 km the Ballina side of Foxford due to a collision.Emergency services are at the scene.Motorists are advised to divert through…

Jan 07, 2020

The body of a woman missing from her Castlerea home has been recovered

The body of Valerie Hough, who went missing from her home in the Knockroe area of Castlerea, county Roscommon yesterday morning , has been located. Gardaí are treating the case as a personal tragedy. A file will now be prepared for the Coroner. The gardai…

Jan 07, 2020

Yellow Wind Warning in place across Connaught counties until 8pm this evening

A status yellow wind warning is in place across Connaught counties until 8pm this evening Met Eireann says southerly winds gradually veering westerly during the day will reach mean speeds of 50 to 65km/h with gusts of 90 to 110km/h, strongest along the coast…

Jan 06, 2020

4 day working week introduced by Galway recruitment company

A Galway-based recruitment firm has decided to introduce a four-day working week. i.c.e. Group, located at Liosbain Industrial Estate on the Tuam Road in the city, trialed the initiative for the past six months, and after productivity grew by 27 percent, it…

Jan 06, 2020

JYSK a home furniture store set to open in Sligo later this year

JYSK a home furniture store is opening seven new shops in Ireland, creating more than 70 full-time jobs. One will be in Sligo, the others in Waterford, Limerick, and Carlow over the next few months. It will also open another outlet in Dublin and two in Cork.

Jan 06, 2020

Positive result for Ballina in latest IBAL survey, according to the Cathaoirleach

Ballina has been designated as a town that is Clean to European Norms in the latest national survey by Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) and the result is positive news, according to the Cathaoirleach of Ballina Municipal District, Michael Loftus. The…

Jan 06, 2020

Some elected surgeries set to be cancelled as overcrowding continues at hospitals' ED depts across the region

Some elected surgeries look set to be cancelled on patients this week, as hospitals try to cope with serious overcrowding in their Emergency Depts. There are 760 patients on trolleys in ED departments across the country this lunchtime. With 47 patients on…

Jan 06, 2020

In an effort to ease the overcrowding at Mayo University Hospital’s emergency department, Independent TD is urging the public to use the injury unit in Roscommon

An Independent TD is urging the public to consider using the Injury Unit at Roscommon where they can be treated within an hour, rather than waiting in overcrowded Emergency Departments like Mayo University Hospital and Portiuncula. That’s the view of Denis…

Jan 06, 2020

Ballina clean to European Norms in latest IBAL survey

Kilkenny has topped a survey of the country's cleanest cities and towns for a record fourth time. In contrast, Dublin's North Inner City is "seriously littered" while Ballymun, Limerick City South and Cork Northside are "littered." Sweet wrappers, chewing gum…

Jan 06, 2020

€2,000 worth of drugs seized by Gardai in two separate searches in the Claremorris area

Gardai have seized €2,000 worth of drugs in two separate searches in the Claremorris area. In an operation based on information received by Community Engagement Gardaí, uniform members from Claremorris Garda Station carried out a search in the Grattan Park…

Jan 06, 2020

Wind warning in place across Mayo & Galway this morning

Two separate wind warnings are in place for seven counties across the country this morning. A status yellow warning is valid for Donegal, Galway, Mayo and Kerry until eight o'clock. Meanwhile, Wexford, Cork and Waterford are under the same warning, but that's…

Jan 05, 2020

Galway councillor calls for greater moves towards gender balance in Irish business

The increase in the proportion of women on Irish boards is welcome but still far too slow. That’s the view of Fine Gael General Election candidate in the Roscommon/Galway constituency Aisling Dolan. The Ballinasloe based councillor says the latest data from…

Jan 05, 2020

National Youth Orchestra and young musicians to collaborate for Galway 2020

The National Youth Orchestra has joined young musicians from the west of Ireland to perform a special winter concert at NUIG. The event forms part of the programme for Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture. The Orchestra will take part in a joint…

Jan 05, 2020

More people across the west use a post office as a mail address than are recorded in emergency accommodation

Almost 3,000 homeless people around the country use a local post office as their home address to receive mail because of the scale of Ireland's housing crisis. New data reveals the spread of hidden homelessness across the country, with many people unaccounted…

Jan 05, 2020

A status yellow wind warning has been issued for Mayo and Galway tonight

A weather warning has been issued for seven counties tonight with gusts of 100 km/h expected. The forecaster has issued two Status Yellow wind warnings today, the first is in place for Galway, Mayo, Donegal, Kerry, between midnight and 8am on Monday. The…

Jan 05, 2020

Green light given to introduce free GP care for under 13's and medical cards for over 70's

The Minister for Health's been given the green light from government to introduce free GP care for under 13s and medical cards for over 70s. The Department of Health will now draft a bill that'll extend free GP care to all children of primary school age.…

Jan 04, 2020

€140k worth of heroin seized by Gardai from a car in Loughrea

140,000 euro worth of heroin has been seized in a car at Loughrea in County Galway. The discovery was made last night around 11.25pm but details are only being released now for operation reasons. A 41 year old man was arrested at the scene but later released…

Jan 04, 2020

Gardai investigating sudden death in Castlerea are not treating the matter as suspicious

Gardai in Castlerea are investigating the sudden death of a man at an apartment in the town on Thursday evening. The man in his 30's was discovered at his home in Castlerea at about 8.30 on Thursday evening. The State Pathologist's office was called to the…

Jan 04, 2020

Government figures show 361 adults are homeless across the Western region

New government figures show that there were 361 homeless adults across the Western region as of November last. Galway makes up the majority of the figure with 326 adults homeless, followed by Mayo with 29 adults homeless and Roscommon with 6. In the Northwest…

Jan 04, 2020

New laws proposed to protect sports clubs from rising insurance premiums

New laws are being proposed to give thousands of sports clubs more protection against personal injury claims. Under the plans, members won't be covered if they're injured on club grounds in non club-related activities. According to the Irish Independent, it…

Jan 04, 2020

Farmers urge dog owners to pay attention to them during lambing season

Farmers are warning dog owners to pay special attention to their pets during lambing season. It comes as the chair of the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers' Association lost four of his own sheep on New Year's Day following an attack by two dogs in County…

Jan 03, 2020

€4.5m in funding allocated to over 2,000 community organisations nationally

More than 2,100 community initiatives around the country have been allocated a total of 4.5 million euro in funding. It's under the Department of Rural and Community Development's community enhancement programme. This provides groups with help to improve…

Jan 03, 2020

A charity air ambulance covering the Midwest faces grounding unless it raises €400k

A charity air ambulance which provides support across the Midwest region is at risk of being grounded in two weeks time due to a lack of funds. The Irish Community Rapid Response based in Co Cork is appealing to people to donate so they can maintain their…

Jan 03, 2020

35 patients on trolleys waiting for a bed at Mayo University Hospital today

There are 35 patients on trolleys waiting for admission to Mayo University Hospital today. That’s the third highest in the country, according to the INMO trolley watch figures, and the Mayo facility shares the ranking with University Hospital Galway today…

Jan 03, 2020

The annual Blessing of the water at St Domnic's Well, Esker takes place this Sunday and Monday

This Sunday and Monday the traditional Ephiney Masses will be celebrated in Esker and Holy Water will be blessed at the historic St Domnic’s Well. Blessed Water from the well is taken home by participants to be shaken over farmland and farm animals as well as…

Jan 03, 2020

Tributes paid to RTE broadcaster Marian Finucane who died suddenly yesterday

Marian Finucane has been described as a "pioneer in women's broadcasting." Tributes are being paid to the RTE presenter who died suddenly yesterday at the age of 69. She joined the national broadcaster in 1974, and hosted shows including Women Today,…

Jan 03, 2020

Galway deputy says an urgent recruitment drive for social workers is needed

634 'high priority' children have not been allocated a social worker by Tusla. They are among more than 5,100 kids living in the community who haven't been assigned one. A further 472 children in state care have not been allocated a social worker, according…

Jan 03, 2020

HSE advise that its not too late to get flu jab, as present flu outbreak claims 22 lives

The HSE has warned that the flu outbreak which has claimed the lives of 22 people is expected to continue for another five weeks. The current flu season, arrived three to four weeks earlier than normal this year, and 17 of the 22 people who died were aged 65…

Jan 03, 2020

Councillor urges public to make submissions to Mayo County Council on its Corporate Plan

A Westport based councillor is urging the general public to make a submission to Mayo County Council on it Corporate Plan 2019 to 2024. The Corporate Plan outlines the main infrastructural projects to be achieved in the county between now and 2024. Fine Gael…

Jan 02, 2020

First Mayo baby of 2020 born at 1.34pm yesterday

The first baby born in Mayo in 2020 was born at Mayo University Hospital yesterday afternoon. The first arrival of the New Year was a baby boy, born to a couple from the Belmullet area. The baby, who has not yet been named, arrived into the world at 1.34…

Jan 02, 2020

Galway named number one "foodie destination" in the world for 2020

Galway has been named the number one 'foodie destination' for 2020 in the world. The BBC Good Food magazine has named the European Capital of Culture as its top location for eating out. It describes Galway as a shining star in Ireland's ever-expanding…

Jan 02, 2020

Pots of Fun in Claremorris to close due to rising insurance costs

A children's play and recreation centre in Claremorris is closing down next week, due to the rising cost of insurance. Pots of Fun in the Lakeside Retail Park in Claremorris is an indoor soft play area and recreation centre for children of all ages, and was a…

Jan 02, 2020

24 patients on trolley at MUH today and 39 in GUH

Today’s trolley watch figures show 547 people are being treated on trolleys at hospitals across the country. University Hospital Limerick is the worst affected with 63 people without beds, according to the INMO. 24 patients are on trolleys waiting for…

Jan 02, 2020

Delay in next stage of securing flood defense for Crossmolina, but project remains on track for start up by this summer

The protracted process involved in securing an adequate flood defense scheme for Crossmolina, has again been delayed, but remains on track for works to get underway on the much needed project by this Summer. That’s according to Mayo Fianna Fail deputy Dara…

Jan 02, 2020

Castlebar Pantomime present Aladdin from tonight until Sunday

Castlebar’s annual pantomime takes place in An Sportlann from this evening (Thurs) , and will run until Sunday. Aladdin is this year’s show and there are evening performances tonight, Friday and Saturday, starting at 7.30 p.m., and matinees on Friday,…

Jan 02, 2020

Connemara's Kylemore Abbey features in RTE TV documentary tonight

A long-lost family album dating back to the 19th century provided the blueprint for the €3m restoration of Kylemore Abbey, in Connemara. A new RTÉ series, 'Great Irish Interiors', catalogues the painstaking restoration of the castle in Kylemore back to the…

Jan 02, 2020

Man arrested in Ballina on suspicion of drug driving on New Year's Eve

A man was arrested in Ballina on New Year's Eve on suspicion of drug driving. Ballina Community Engagement Gardai were conducting their last checkpoint of 2019 as part of the "Choose Your Driver Wisely" campaign when they stopped a car and the driver of the…

Jan 02, 2020

INMO General Secretary calls for recruitment ban to be lifted

Hospital emergency departments are bracing themselves for a major surge in patient attendances from today, as new figures show 2019 was the worst on record for overcrowding. The expected increase in attendances is driven by high flu levels and pent-up demand…

Jan 02, 2020

Investigations underway into vandalism to tractor on Claremorris farm last Saturday afternoon

Gardaí in Ballinrobe are investigating the vandalism of a tractor on a farm in the Claremorris area on Saturday afternoon last. Extensive damage, to the value of 2,500 euro, is reported to have been caused to a Massey Fergusson 365 tractor on a farm in…

Dec 31, 2019

Pilots' organisation claims factors that led to fatal helicopter crash off Mayo still exist

A pilots' organisation claims the factors that led to a fatal helicopter crash off the Mayo coast in 2017 still exist. The Irish Air Line Pilots’ Association said it is concerned an accident could happen again if the causes contributing to the crash are not…

Dec 31, 2019

INMO says abuse towards staff in hospitals now an "expected part of the job"

The Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation says abusive and aggressive behaviour towards nursing staff in hospitals has become an expected part of the job. The union was responding to Roscommon FF TD Eugene Murphy who told Midwest News earlier that he was…

Dec 31, 2019

Caulfield's shop in Ballyhaunis closing today after 100 years in business

A Ballyhaunis convenience store is closing its doors today after 100 years in business. Husband and wife, Seamus and Aisling Caulfield have run the store for the past twenty two years, after they took over from Seamus’s grandfather who opened the shop over…

Dec 31, 2019

Drink sensibly as you ring in the New Year, according to Alcohol Action Ireland

Alcohol Action Ireland is reminding people to drink sensibly as they ring in the New Year this evening. New figures show that people in Ireland are drinking as much today as they did a decade ago. The group says there has been no progress in reducing alcohol…

Dec 31, 2019

Minister considers charging for homecare support

People receiving homecare support may have to pay some of the costs themselves in the future. At present, homecare support services are provided free, unlike residential care under the Fair Deal scheme where people make a contribution towards the cost. The…

Dec 31, 2019

Deputy highlights "shocking" abuse directed at staff in the emergency deptartments of hospitals

Deputy Eugene Murphy says he was shocked at the level of abuse and aggression directed at staff in the Emergency Department of a Dublin hospital which he witnessed recently. The Roscommon / Galway Fianna Fail TD was treated overnight recently in St James’s…

Dec 31, 2019

Central Bank advises vigilance in taking out loans to address Christmas debt

The Central Bank is warning people to be vigilant if they take out a loan to repay any Christmas debt. According to the Daily Mail, the bank says families facing bills from the festive season can be tempted by 'easy loan' offers online. The banks says some of…

Dec 31, 2019

82 rivers open tomorrow for salmon/ sea trout fishing in 2020

The Minister with responsibility for the Inland Fisheries, Tuam based Sean Canney has approved legislation that will govern the wild salmon and sea trout fisheries in 2020. These will come into effect from tomorrow, 1 January 2020. Minister Canney says they…

Dec 31, 2019

Coast Guard warns of reliability of mobile phones while at sea

The Coast Guard saved 378 lives this year. In its end of year statement, the organisation's also warning of the dangers of relying on mobile phones when at sea. A total of 2,487 incidents were managed over the past 12 months by the Coast Guards three rescue…

Dec 30, 2019

Mayo University Hospital management apologise for long waiting times in Emergency Dept which is "extremely busy" today

Management at Mayo University Hospital have apologised to patients and their families who are experiencing long waiting times in the Emergency Department, which is described as "extremely busy" today. The hospital has admitted a lot of seriously ill patients…

Dec 30, 2019

Three soldiers from Mayo & Sligo killed in the Lebanon in 1989 were "deliberately targeted"

Three soldiers from Mayo and Sligo killed in a roadside bomb in the Lebanon in 1989 were deliberately targeted in a revenge attack over the abduction of a Lebanese explosives expert, according to newly-declassified State papers. 28-year old Corporal Fintan…

Dec 30, 2019

Deputy Chambers warns lots of businesses remain unprepared to trade wit the UK after Brexit

A large number of businesses still don't have the basic measures in place that are needed to continue trading with the UK after Brexit. A Fianna Fáil parliamentary question has revealed that 55-thousand companies don't have a Revenue EORI number. The number…

Dec 30, 2019

Tuam Historian Catherine Corless insists President Higgins has been invited to visit the site of the former Tuam Mother and Baby Home

Historian Catherine Corless has again appealed to President Michael D Higgins to visit Tuam as a gesture of solidarity with the infants buried in the former Mother and Baby Home and its survivors. Speaking to the Irish Independent, Ms Corless said the…

Dec 30, 2019

146,000 euro is average price of a house in Mayo, according to latest Daft.ie report

In Mayo, house prices in the final quarter of 2019 were 5% lower than a year previously, compared to a rise of 10% seen a year ago. The average house price in the county is now €146,000, 32% above its lowest point. In Dublin, prices in the third quarter of…

Dec 30, 2019

Mayo author Sally Rooney's Normal People makes Obama's favourite booklist for 2019

Mayo native, author Sally Rooney’s acclaimed second novel Normal People has made former US President Barack Obama's list of favourite books of the year. In a post on Instagram, the former US President shared his selection, which he admits has become "a fun…

Dec 30, 2019

Farmers have until tomorrow to inform the dept of measures taken to address breach of nitrates limit

ICMSA has issued a reminder to farmers to take measures that might avoid Cross-Compliance fines relating to exceeding their nitrates limits. Denis Drennan, Chairperson of their Farm & Rural Affairs Committee, said that fines for breaching the limits had…

Dec 29, 2019

Sligo TD believes the Government should take over the FAI's stake in the Aviva

The Football Association of Ireland's AGM will resume, today, after it was adjourned in July. The crisis-ridden football body has current net liabilities of over €55million. Earlier this month, it requested a financial rescue package of €18million from the…

Dec 29, 2019

Government urged to be 'more pro-active' in order to resolve the beef stand-off

The Government is being urged to be more pro-active in its efforts to resolve the stand-off between farmers and retailers over the price of beef. It comes as UK retailers were invited to attend the next meeting of of the Beef Taskforce with their Irish…

Dec 29, 2019

Gardai appeal for witnesses to a serious road traffic collision near Elphin

Gardaí attended the scene of a serious two vehicle road traffic collision yesterday that occurred at approximately 12.50pm at Ardleckna, Elphin, County Roscommon. Two women, aged in their 30s and 70s, were airlifted to Sligo University Hospital with serious…

Dec 28, 2019

North Mayo man hits out at decision to put internal convergence on hold for the transitional period of the CAP

Founder of Ireland’s Future, Gerry Loftus, has said he is furious at the announcement by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Michael Creed, to put internal convergence on hold for the transitional period of the Common Agricultural Policy. The North…

Dec 28, 2019

HSE hired 32 mental health staff this year despite a shortfall of 2,400

The HSE hired 34 mental health staff this year, despite having a shortfall of over 2,400. The Health Service estimates that it would cost 194 million euro per year to increase the number of staff to the recommended level. Kildare and parts of Dublin and…

Dec 28, 2019

Remembrance ball takes place in Galway to honour those who have died at sea

An event will take place in County Galway tonight to honour people who've died at sea. Claddagh Watch's remembrance ball is raising funds for charities like itself and the RNLI and Galway East Life Support in Ballinasloe. Claddagh Watch co-founder Séamus Ó…

Dec 27, 2019

No increase in Mayo this year in price of average 3 bedroom semi-detached house

Three bedroom semi-detached houses in Mayo have remained at the same price over the past 12 months according to the Q4 Irish Independent/ REA Average House Price Index. The price remains at 160,000 euro. In county Sligo house prices have risen by 11 percent…

Dec 27, 2019

N5 at Sheeaune open again to traffic

The N5 Westport to Castlebar Road at Sheeaune is open again to traffic. It was closed following a 2 car collision last night. Garda forensic investigators were at the scene earlier today. No life threatening injuries were reported. Gardai are investigating…

Dec 27, 2019

Sligo Gardai investigate incident in which two men sustained stab wounds

Gardai in Sligo are investigating an incident over Christmas in which two men sustained multiple stab wounds. It occurred during a disturbance at a house in the Ballytivnan area of Sligo town during the early hours of Wednesday -Christmas Day. It's understood…

Dec 27, 2019

Woman involved in Co Galway collision on Christmas Eve has passed away in hospital

A 52 year old pedestrian who was injured in a crash in Co. Galway on Christmas Eve has died. The woman was hit by a car while walking along a local road at Carrowmanagh in Oughterard at around quarter to nine on Tuesday night. She was in a critical condition…

Dec 27, 2019

N5 Westport-Castlebar road closed following collision

Gardai in Westport say the main N5 road between Westport and Castlebar is closed to traffic this morning near the Tip Top station, following a collision. The two-vehicle collision occurred at about midnight. It's understood there were no serious injuries…

Dec 27, 2019

Over 900 swimmers took part in COPE Galway Christmas Swim

Over 900 swimmers braved the conditions to take part in the COPE Galway annual charity swim on Christmas Day. This was the 30th year of the Christmas morning swim in Salthill to support the charity's services for people experiencing homelessness and domestic…

Dec 27, 2019

New Mayo Divisional Drugs Unit already makes a number of seizures

The number of Gardai in the Mayo Division has increased by 35 in the past five years, and as a result of this increase in personnel, a new divisional drugs unit was launched just before Christmas which will be based in Castlebar, but will tackle drug-related…

Dec 27, 2019

Eight people taken to hospital following collision near Leenane

A man has been seriously injured in a road collision in Co Galway. He was among 8 people taken to hospital after the collision involving two cars on the Clifden Road, about 3 kilometres outside Leenane Village at around 5.15pm yesterday evening. Eight people…

Dec 24, 2019

37 patients waiting on trolleys in hospitals across the Midwest region

217 patients are being treated on trolleys at hospitals across the country. The worst affected facility is University Hospital Limerick, where there are 49 people awaiting beds. That's followed by 18 at Portiuncula Hospital, 16 at Mayo University Hospital and…

Dec 24, 2019

Aaron Forde, the chief executive of Aurivo, steping down after 16 years

Aaron Forde, the chief executive of Aurivo, has decided to step down and will leave the business after almost 16 years in his position. Aurivo is one of the country's biggest co-operatives, with businesses in consumer foods, dairy ingredients, retail stores,…

Dec 24, 2019

Fianna Fail leader accepts issue with Mayo Senator's voting record

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin has acknowledged there is an issue with one of his senators missing three-quarters of Seanad voting days. However, Keith Swanick, a GP who runs a practice in Belmullet, Co Mayo, has defended his record after an RTÉ…

Dec 24, 2019

More than 650 arrested on suspicion of drink or drug driving since Gardai launched their Christmas Road Safety Campaign

More than 650 people have been arrested on suspicion of drink or drug driving since Gardaí launched their Christmas Road Safety Campaign. Last Christmas, Gardaí arrested almost 1,050 people who were suspected of driving under the influence of drugs or…

Dec 24, 2019

The death has taken place of Regina Duffy

The death has taken place of Regina Duffy from Drummin, Westport. Regina held a special place in the hearts of people right across the region during her battle against a rare form of cancer. Many communities, parishes and organisations and listeners to…

Dec 24, 2019

Met Eireann predicting a mix of unsettled weather over next few days

Those dreaming of a white Christmas will have to wait another 12 months at least, according to Met Eireann. The forecaster's predicting a mix of mild, wet and windy weather over the next few days. However there are no signs a major weather event is on the…

Dec 24, 2019

Funding of over €1.4 million announced for St. Vincent de Paul

Funding of over €1.4 million has been announced for St Vincent de Paul. The Minister for Rural & Community Development Michael Ring has allocated over €1.4 million to St Vincent de Paul and €180,000 to Protestant Aid, to recognise the contribution of both…

Dec 23, 2019

Safety message for those taking part in water or coastal activities over the festive season

The Coast Guard and RNLI have issued a joint safety message for those taking part in water-based or coastal activities over the Christmas and New Year period. Both groups are warning that swimming in open water is very different to swimming in a pool due to…

Dec 23, 2019

Roscommon woman dies in weekend road collision in Co Cavan

A Roscommon woman died in a road collision in Co Cavan at the weekend. Yvonne Ward nee Sheehan from Rosmoylan, Creggs was driving a car which was involved in a collision with a lorry near Ballinagh in Co Cavan on Saturday. She was removed from the scene to…

Dec 23, 2019

New library and civic offices approved for Westport

West Mayo Councillors have approved a new library and civic offices for Westport. The new offices and library will be developed at the old Convent of Mercy schoolhouse on Altamont Street. Mayo County Council purchased the property in 2008, but plans to…

Dec 23, 2019

Crossmolina man involved in truck convoy to bring aid to Australian town devastated by drought

A Crossmolina man is one of the organisers of a convoy of trucks helping to deliver water and animal feed to a town in Australia devastated by drought and the ongoing bushfires. 27-year old Kieran O'Brien from Crossmolina lives in Brisbane, and is one of a…

Dec 23, 2019

Galway Christmas Market attracted some 600,000 visitors this year

The Galway Christmas Market came to a close yesterday, having attracted an estimated 600,000 visitors this year. The Eyre Square Market, which opened on 15th November, featured over 50 seasonal market stalls, the 32m observation wheel, the traditional…

Dec 23, 2019

Large numbers presenting with flu like symptoms at Portiuncula Hospital today

The Emergency Department at Portiuncula University Hospital in Ballinasloe is extremely busy today. According to hospital management, the hospital has seen a significant increase in the numbers of patients presenting with respiratory and flu like illness.…

Dec 23, 2019

Hospice support walk in Ballaghaderreen on St Stephen's morning

The Ballaghaderreen Hospice Support Group Walk in aid of Mayo Roscommon a Hospice Foundation will take place on Thursday, St Stephen’s Day. Walkers will gather g at the Ozanam Centre at 10.45am, with the walk at 11am. Refreshments will be served afterwards…

Dec 23, 2019

Students in St Angela's NS Castlebar talk to Midwest News about Christmas

The students and staff of St Angela’s National School in Castlebar were full of Christmas cheer when Midwest Radio visited the school last week. Principal Nessa Maloney and her 29 strong staff and 350 students were all involved in the excitement of the…

Dec 23, 2019

Appeal to prisoners in long search for missing Trevor Deely

It's hoped prisoners can help solve a long running missing person’s case. Posters are to be displayed at Irish jails from this week in relation to the disappearance of Trevor Deely. His brother Mark Deely is an optician based in Castlebar. Trevor was last…

Dec 23, 2019

Irish coastguard says "stay back, stay high and stay dry" this yuletide

The RNLI says they have over 1,500 lifeboat volunteers ready to drop everything if a call for help comes in this Christmas. But they'd all prefer if their safety message got there first. The Irish Coast Guard says 'stay back, stay high and stay dry.' With…

Dec 23, 2019

Mayo woman missing in Dublin located safe and well

A Mayo woman who had been missing in Dublin since Saturday has been located safe and well. Rachel Dervin’s family became concerned for her safety over the weekend, but this morning gardai have confirmed she has been located safe and well and her family have…

Dec 23, 2019

Gardai seek public assistance re shooting in Ballinasloe in the early hours of yesterday morning

Gardaí in Ballinasloe are appealing to the public for information following a shooting incident and criminal damage to a house in Brackernagh, Ballinasloe in the early hours of yesterday (Sunday)morning. The home owner was sitting in the front room of the…

Dec 22, 2019

Gaeltacht Digital Hubs across the region to host open mornings tomorrow

9 Innovation and Digital Hubs in Gaeltacht areas will open their doors to the public tomorrow, to see the opportunities that are available to local people to work globally, from their own area. The gteic hubs in Belmullet, Carraroe, Spiddal and Furbo will…

Dec 22, 2019

New 'Buddy Bed' initiative provided for relatives of patients at Sligo University Hospital

Following a fundraising campaign, 21 new "buddy beds" have been provided at the Paediatric Unit of Sligo University Hospital. Buddy beds are special chairs that convert to comfortable beds, allowing for parents of a sick child to rest, while staying…

Dec 22, 2019

Supporters broke a hi-vis vest world record in the Sportsground yesterday evening

Connacht lost to Munster at the Sportsground last night, but those in attendance made it into the history books after they broke the world record for the most people wearing a hi-vis jacket in one location at once. The record attempt was organised by a…

Dec 22, 2019

Fair Rent Bill passing the second stage in the Dail is welcomed by Mayo Senator

The passing of the Sinn Féin Fair Rent Bill at second stage in the Dáil during the week has been welcomed by Mayo Senator Rose Conway-Walsh She claims it could put €1,500 per year back in the pockets of renters and aims to freeze rents for a period of three…

Dec 22, 2019

Roscommon Town is set for a major regeneration project next year

Roscommon Town is to get a facelift next year, after councillors this week approved a new plan for the regeneration of the town centre. The Market Square and Main Street Public Realm Enhancement Project will see a one-way traffic system on one side of the…

Dec 22, 2019

ALONE calls for public support amidst their highest ever housing waiting list

ALONE is calling on people across the Midwest to help older people who are homeless or experiencing the impact of the housing crisis over Christmas, with a record number of people currently on their waiting list. There are some 250 people on their housing…

Dec 22, 2019

Drivers warned to use their dipped headlights today on the shortest day of the year

Drivers are being warned to use their dipped headlights on the shortest day of the year today. The Road Safety Authority's also urging those out walking and cycling to make sure they can be seen on the roads. Around 60 per cent of pedestrian deaths in crashes…

Dec 22, 2019

Drop for Fine Gael in latest opinion poll

There's a blow for the Government in the latest Sunday Times/ Behaviour and Attitudes December Poll. Its satisfaction rating has fallen by four to 33 per cent, while the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar's popularity has dropped 5 points to 38. Fianna Fail leader…

Dec 21, 2019

Leitrim Gardai arrest fourth person in connection to the murder of Patrick Heeran

Gardaí in Leitrim have arrested a fourth person in connection with the investigation into the murder of Patrick Heeran. Heeran was last seen in Mohill, Co. Leitrim on Monday 3rd October 2011 and a murder investigation has been ongoing since 2016. The arrested…

Dec 21, 2019

RNLI launch 'The Perfect Storm' fundraising appeal to help continue their rescue work

While many people are looking forward to a few days off and a rest over the festive season, volunteer lifeboat crews along the West coast are on call 24-7, in case of emergencies on the water. Last year, Irish lifeboats launched over 1,000 times - in Mayo,…

Dec 21, 2019

Connemara community set for new wastewater treatment plant

Residents of Roundstone in Connemara will benefit from a new wastewater treatment plant, which will end the discharge of the equivalent of 645 wheelie bins of raw sewage into Roundstone Bay every day. That's according to Irish Water, which is working with…

Dec 21, 2019

Foggy weather conditions cause second day of disruption at IWAK

The heavy fog conditions have caused disruption at Ireland West Airport Knock for a second day as families try to return home for Christmas. One Ryanair flight was diverted twice from the airport so far today, as the national fog warning remains in place.…

Dec 21, 2019

Met Eireann extends Status Yellow fog warning until tomorrow

Met Eireann has extended a Status Yellow Warning for fog until tomorrow morning. The alert came into effect yesterday afternoon and was due to expire this morning. However the forecaster says fog will linger in some parts for much of today and become…

Dec 21, 2019

North Mayo lobbyist calls on the Minister for Agriculture to supplement farmers until the new CAP is introduced

The Common Agricultural Policy must come into effect so farmers can collect their environmental supplement payments, according to the founder of Ireland’s Future Gerry Loftus. Gerry Loftus and his team attended meetings in Brussels on agriculture, environment…

Dec 21, 2019

The N60 road will open to two-way traffic for the Christmas period

The N60 road on the Castlebar side of Balla will be open to two-way traffic from next week. Roadworks have been taking place for a number of months on the N60 Balla to Castlebar road, resulting in delays to traffic as a stop / go system is in place. Mayo…

Dec 20, 2019

R321 road reopens to traffic following an overturned lorry this morning

The R321 road between Ballylahan and Bohola has reopened to traffic after an overturned lorry was cleared form the road. The lorry turned over close to Bohola Graveyard, just off the N5, shortly after 7am this morning. Heavy fog was reported at the time. The…

Dec 20, 2019

Four flights were diverted from IWAK due to heavy fog conditions this afternoon

Four flights were diverted from Ireland West Airport Knock this afternoon due to heavy fog conditions. Flights from London Luton, Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh were forced to divert to Shannon and Dublin Airports. Passengers on the London Luton flight…

Dec 20, 2019

€2.5m provided for an upgrade of Cloongullane Bridge on the N26

Construction is expected to start next Summer on the long-awaited new bridge at Cloongullane on the N26 near Foxford, as Transport Infrastructure Ireland is allocating €2.5 million for the new bridge and road realignment project. It's part of the €56 million…

Dec 20, 2019

Minister Harris announces package of health supports for former Residents of Mother and Baby Homes

Minister for Health Simon Harris TD has announced a package of health and well-being supports for former residents of Tuam’s Mother and Baby Homes, and related institutions.The measures being announced today are based on the recommendations of the…

Dec 20, 2019

€56m allocated to national roads in Mayo for 2020 as part of TII's budget

Funding of over €56 million is being allocated for national roads in Co Mayo for 2020. This includes an allocation of €40 million for the new N5 Westport to Turlough road. Transport Infrastructure Ireland's budget for 2020 allocated €55.3 million for…

Dec 20, 2019

Galway County Council grant planning permission for new Aldi store in Tuam town centre

Galway County Council's has given the green light for a new Aldi store in Tuam town centre. The store will be located at the Glynn's Hardware site. Minister for Rural Affairs, local TD Sean Canney says its positive news for Tuam, as he says when the store is…

Dec 20, 2019

Some driving tests cancelled in Castlebar this morning due to dense fog

Some driving tests have been cancelled this morning due to dense fog. The Road Safety Authority says that morning fog has caused disruption around the country. Morning tests have been cancelled at centres in Castlebar, parts of Galway, Carlow, Waterford,…

Dec 20, 2019

ESB urges householders across the region not to overload sockets this Christmas

The ESB is advising householders across the region not to overload electrical sockets in their house over the Christmas period. People are being asked to check for frayed wires or loose connections around decorations in their home. The electricity network is…

Dec 20, 2019

Lorry overturned at Bohola graveyard this morning

Gardai are advising that a lorry has turned over on the Ballylahan to Bohola road, at the Bohola Graveyard, just off the N5.Fog is reported in the area,The emergency services are at the scene.Traffic is getting by, but gardai are advising motorists to slow…

Dec 20, 2019

Galway deputy claims many creches may be unable to reopen in 2020 despite 1500 government grant

Fianna Fáil says it remains to be seen whether some creches will be able to reopen in the New Year despite a 1,500 government grant to providers. The Department of Children says Allianz, the last remaining insurer covering creches, has offered quotes to over…

Dec 19, 2019

Power being restored to hundreds of customers across Mayo following Storm Elsa

Power has been restored today to hundreds of homes and businesses across the West, who were without electricity following Storm Elsa which battered the western region last night. Some of the highest winds were in Mayo, and hundreds of customers across the…

Dec 19, 2019

Glencorrib-Headford road reopens following bus fire

The Glencorrib to Headford road has now reopened following a bus fire this morning. Gardai and fire services attended the scene of the incident at about 7.30am. It's understood a bus travelling on the road caught fire. There were three passengers on board the…

Dec 19, 2019

Mayo family to welcome one of 30 children arriving from Chernobyl region for Christmas

As a group of 30 special needs children arrive from the Chernobyl region of Belarus to Ireland this evening for a Christmas holiday, one Castlebar family is preparing to welcome back a familiar face. Igor Shadshov has been enjoying respite holidays with Marie…

Dec 19, 2019

Galway Mayor questions why Met Eireann was so late in issuing status orange warning last night

The clean-up is continuing today after the impact of Storm Elsa on Galway city and county, which caused severe flooding, while some roads were blocked by fallen trees and debris. The Mayor of Galway is questioning why Met Eireann was so late in issuing a…

Dec 19, 2019

No delays to trains despite incident earlier close to Manulla junction

A vehicle struck the barrier at a level crossing at Barrackland near Manulla Junction at around 11.45am today. Emergency services attended the scene and it’s understood no serious injuries were sustained in the incident. Irish Rail has confirmed that there…

Dec 19, 2019

Westport Councillor is questioning why the day care service is not being provided at the McBride Home

A Westport councillor is questioning why the day care service is not being provided at present at the McBride Community Nursing Home in Westport. Independent Councillor Christy Hyland says the day care service is a very important service, particularly for…

Dec 19, 2019

Headford to Glencorrib road closed as emergency services deal with a fire to a bus

The Headford to Glencorrib road remains closed this morning as emergency services deal with a blaze to a bus. The road is blocked both ways so motorists are advised to avoid this route for next couple of hours if possible. Diversions are in place via the N84…

Dec 19, 2019

Fallen trees, debris on roads and hundreds without power across Mayo and Galway following storm force winds overnight

Motorists are being advised to drive with extreme caution this morning following storm force winds overnight. There are reports of fallen trees in a number of counties in the west and midlands. A status orange wind warning was in place for Mayo and Galway for…

Dec 18, 2019

Status yellow wind warning in place across the region until 3am tomorrow

The Road Safety Authority is asking drivers to exercise extreme caution this evening while weather warnings are in place. A Status Orange wind warning has been issued for county Cork, which will come into effect at 6 o'clock tonight and last for three hours.…

Dec 18, 2019

Plight of "Not for Profit" voluntary sector to be raised in the Dail this evening

It’s past the time for this government to take on the funding crisis in the “Not for profit” sector, Section 39 workers who provide vital services for people with disability and health needs across the state. That’s the view of Mayo Sinn Fein Senator Rose…

Dec 18, 2019

A community alcohol treatment service to be reintroduced in Galway, according to local deputy

A community based alcohol treatment service is to be reintroduced in Galway, according to local Fine Gael TD Hildegarde Naughton. The development is contained in the newly published HSE service plan. Deputy Naughton told Midwest News that she has worked with…

Dec 18, 2019

Arkphire, with regional office in Castlebar, acquires Trilogy Technologies

IT company Arkphire, which has a regional office in Castlebar, has announced the acquision of Trilogy Technologies, one of Ireland's leading independent ICT managed services providers. Arkphire said that the deal marks the “first major move of significant…

Dec 18, 2019

Yellow wind warning in place until midnight tonight

It's a very wet and windy day across the West, with a status yellow wind warning now in place for the entire country until midnight tonight. Met Eireann is warning of southeast winds gusting to between 90 and 110 km/h - strongest in coastal areas. And there's…

Dec 18, 2019

Galway's Pat Murphy elected Connacht Regional Chairman of the IFA

Galway suckler farmer Pat Murphy was elected Connacht Chairman of the Irish Farmers Association yesterday. He defeated Roscommon's John Hanley by 991 votes to 815 to take over the position. Meanwhile, the newly elected president of the IFA is Tipperary farmer…

Dec 18, 2019

John Perry to run as Independent candidate in Sligo /Leitrim

Former FG Junior Minister John Perry is to run as an Independent candidate in the Sligo / Leitrim constituency in the next general election, after failing to be nominated by Fine Gael. The Ballymote man has served as a councillor, TD and Junior Minister. Last…

Dec 18, 2019

Volunteer of the Year award for African woman living in Direct Provision in Ballyhaunis

An African woman has been named the Christine Buckley Volunteer of the Year for her dedication in supporting the residents of the Direct Provision Centre in Ballyhaunis. Owodunni Mustapha, known as Ola, who lives at the Old Convent in Ballyhaunis received a…

Dec 18, 2019

Strandhill, Sligo one of four new Rent Pressure Zones

Strandhill in Co Sligo is one of four new local electoral areas designated as Rent Pressure Zones from today. Rents in Strandhill, Baltinglass in Wicklow, Piltown in Kilkenny, and Cobh in Co Cork will only be able to increase by a maximum of 4% per year. This…

Dec 18, 2019

Smoky coal ban to be extended to Ballina and Castlebar from next Sept

The Government has announced it will not be introducing a nationwide ban on smoky coal. Environment Minister Richard Bruton says this is due to legal concerns, and fears it would hurt people in rural areas who rely on turf and logs to heat their home. From…

Dec 18, 2019

New IFA President Tim Cullinan says beef price is his top priority

Farmers are warning they may return to Dublin to protest in the coming days. Tractors blocked traffic at St. Stephen's Green for several hours yesterday, in their campaign over beef prices. The demonstration was called off at about eight o'clock last night,…

Dec 18, 2019

Govt funding of €1.7 million announced for Ireland West Airport Knock

Government funding of over €1.7 million has been announced for Ireland West Airport Knock, for safety and security measures. The allocation, under the Government's Regional Airports Programme, is in addition to a €5.7 million investment by Government in IWAK…

Dec 17, 2019

Students accuse Sligo Councillor of using USI event for a photo opportunity

Members of the Union of Students Ireland claim a Sligo County Councillor used a recent Student’s Union event in IT Sligo as a photo opportunity. The accusation was made against Fine Gael Councillor and General Election candidate for Sligo/Leitrim Thomas…

Dec 17, 2019

The smokey coal ban will extend to Castlebar and Ballina next September

The smoky coal ban has been extended to all towns with populations of more than 10,000 people, including Castlebar and Ballina. From September of next year, smoky coal will be banned in thirteen towns across Cavan, Cork, Kerry, Longford, Mayo, Meath, Offaly…

Dec 17, 2019

Beef farmers again protest in Dublin city centre

Beef farmers are again protesting in Dublin today, with large parts of the city centre closed. The group of independent farmers say many won't survive into the new year if beef prices remain below the cost of production. They want an emergency meeting of the…

Dec 17, 2019

Castlebar Gardai issue warning over hoax phone calls

Gardai in Castlebar have issued a warning in relation to hoax calls. A number of people in the Castlebar area have reported receiving phone calls this morning purporting to be from Revenue, and asking for bank details. Gardai are advising that Revenue never…

Dec 17, 2019

Staff at IWAK raise over €41,000 for the airport's three nominated charities for 2019

Staff at Ireland West Airport Knock have raised over €41,000 this year for the airport's three nominated charities. Croí, Hope House and the Jack & Jill Foundation were the nominated charities for 2019 year, and a number of fundraising events were held…

Dec 17, 2019

504 thefts from vehicles reported across Mayo over the past 4 years

Over 500 thefts from vehicles have been reported across the Mayo Garda division over the past four years. New figures from An Garda Siochana show that, nationally, over €30 million euro worth of items have been stolen from 46,582 vehicles since the start of…

Dec 17, 2019

Status yellow wind warning issued for the entire country tomorrow

A status yellow wind warning has been issued for the whole country for tomorrow. Met Eireann is advising of south-east winds with gusts of between 90 and 110 km/h, stronger in coastal areas. The wind warning comes into effect from 12 noon until midnight…

Dec 17, 2019

Sod to be turned on Jan 10th for new 6 million euro Roscommon Hospice

The sod will be turned on the new Roscommon hospice next month. The eight suite centre will be developed on a site beside Hannon’s hotel in the town at an estimated cost of €6million. Chief Executive of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Martina Jennings addressed the…

Dec 17, 2019

Brendan O'Mahony honoured with The Plunkett Award for Co-operative Endeavour

The lifelong contribution to the Irish co-operative movement by Mayo native Brendan O’Mahony has been recognised nationally with the co-operative industry’s highest national honour - The Plunkett Award for Co-operative Endeavour. Brendan, from Cross, was the…

Dec 17, 2019

New IFA President will be known later today

The 16th president of the IFA will be elected later today. Counting of votes begins this morning for a successor to Joe Healy, as the IFA elections for 2019 come to a close. The three candidates for the presidency are John Coughlan, Tim Cullinan and Angus…

Dec 17, 2019

Ballina man loses appeal against conviction for murder of the Blaine brothers in Castlebar

A Ballina man, who murdered two elderly brothers in Castlebar six years ago, has lost an appeal against his conviction. 32-year old Alan Cawley of Four Winds, Corrinbla, Ballina had admitted killing 69-year old Thomas Blaine and his 76 year old brother John…

Dec 17, 2019

30,000 euro spent on taxis over a three year period at charity set up to fund raise for NUIG

A charity set up to raise funds for NUI Galway spent more than 30-thousand euro on 102 taxi trips over a three year period. The Galway University Foundation also spent over 48-thousand euro on business class flights between 2015 and 2017. Other expenses…

Dec 17, 2019

New complaint made to Oireachtas Ethics Committee about the "voting practice" of Deputy Lisa Chambers

A fresh complaint has been made to the Oireachtas ethics committee about the “voting practice” of Fianna Fáil Brexit spokesperson, Mayo deputy Lisa Chambers. According to Independent.ie, Fine Gael’s Fergus O’Dowd wrote to the clerk of the Dáil yesterday…

Dec 17, 2019

Family appeal to anyone with suicidal thoughts to seek assistance, at inquest yesterday in Castlebar

The family of a county Mayo man who took his own life last May issued a heartfelt public appeal yesterday for anybody with suicidal thoughts to seek assistance.At an inquest in Castlebar into the death of Martin McHale, Murrisk, Westport, his family, through…

Dec 17, 2019

IFA welcomes the news that Tesco will attend next month’s meeting of the Beef Market taskforce

There's been a lack of transparency from big supermarkets amid the ongoing beef price row, according to the Irish Farmers Association. It has welcomed news that Tesco will now be attending next month's meeting involving key stakeholders. Galway based IFA…

Dec 16, 2019

Mayo coroner calls on public to check in on elderly neighbours

A coroner recommended that the public keep an eye on elderly neighbours particularly during the winter months. Patrick O’Connor, Coroner for Mayo, made the comments at an inquest in Castlebar today into the death of 66-year-old Gerard Gavin with an address at…

Dec 16, 2019

Mayo Pink Ribbon have raised over €1m over the past decade for breast cancer research

Mayo Pink Ribbon raised nearly €160,000 for breast cancer research in a combined total of all their events held this year. The largest ever annual collection by the organisation has put the total raised for breast cancer in the county in excess of €1m. The…

Dec 16, 2019

University Hospital Galway has the second highest number of patients on trolleys today

Patients on trolleys at University Hospital Galway were 49 today, the second highest in the country. That’s according to figures from the INMO, which also show 18 on trolleys at the Portiuncla Hospital, 15 at Mayo University Hospital and 12 at Sligo…

Dec 16, 2019

A Mayo woman will appeal for information about her husband's murder on Crimecall tonight

The family of a man who was shot in Castlebar six years ago will appeal for information about his death on RTE’s Crimecall tonight. Owen Maughan (29) was shot outside a service station close to his home in Castlebar on the 18th of December 2013. He died from…

Dec 16, 2019

Hannah's potato stuffing recipe as discussed on the Mid-morning Show

HANNAH’S POTATO STUFFING AS DISCUSSED BY PAUL AND GERRY ON MONDAY, DECEMBER 16TH RECEIPE FOR POTATO STUFFING INGREDIENTS 1/2 LB OF STREAKY RASHERS 2 CHOPPED ONIONS CELERY IF DESIRED 2 TABLESPOONS OF CHOPPED PARSLEY 1/4 LB OF BUTTER OR MARGARINE 2 TEASPOONS OF…

Dec 16, 2019

Gardai advise public to be wary of scam phone calls

Gardai are again advising the public to be wary of suspicious phone calls.A woman in the Ballinrobe area was contacted by phone this morning by an individual claiming to be from the Irish Revenue and Customs office. The woman was asked for her bank…

Dec 16, 2019

26,600 euro announced for sensory equipment in Mayo libraries

€26,600 in grant aid to provide sensory facilities and equipment in public libraries in Mayo has been announced today by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring. The equipment can assist individuals with sensory impairments, special…

Dec 16, 2019

Deputy Chambers declines interview with Midwest News on latest Dail voting controversy

Fianna Fáil's Brexit spokesperson, Mayo deputy Lisa Chambers has insisted it was "entirely normal" for TDs to sit in the wrong place, after new footage emerged showing votes being cast for a colleague while she occupied his seat. Deputy Chambers claims she is…

Dec 16, 2019

Death has occurred of Kiltimagh native, Mae Filan, mother of Westlife star Shane Filan

The death has occurred of Mae Filan, née McNicholas, “Carlton Lodge”, Carrowroe, Sligo and formerly of the Carlton Café, Castle Street, Sligo and of Kiltimagh, mother of internationally known Westlife star Shane Filan. She died at the North West Hospice in…

Dec 16, 2019

200,000 euro tab for coffee and coffee equipment to serve TDs and senators in 2020

The Houses of the Oireachtas Service is set to spend over 200 thousand euro on coffee and coffee equipment. A newly published tender outlines to potential suppliers that it will spend an estimated 210 thousand euro over the 12 months of the contract and any…

Dec 16, 2019

IFA calls on Minister Creed to immediately hold a meeting of the Beef Market Taskforce

The Irish Farmers Association says processors and retailers must increase the price of beef paid to farmers. It's calling on the Agriculture Minister to hold an immediate meeting of the Beef Market Taskforce to hold them to account. It says the Bord Bia price…

Dec 16, 2019

Numerous reports of vehicles leaving the road due to icy conditions this morning

Gardai are advising motorists of treacherous icy road conditions in places across the region this morning. Numerous vehicles left the road in the early hours of this morning in the Castlebar area – on the Pontoon Road, in the Belcara and Manulla areas, while…

Dec 15, 2019

Mayo Councillor wants report on council's property and land earlier than March 2020

A long sought after report outlining all the properties and lands in the ownership of Mayo County Council is to be available to councillors by March next (2020), but should be available right now, according to Fine Gael councillor Donna Sheridan. The time…

Dec 15, 2019

Mayo Councillor calls on the Government to enact minimum pricing legislation for alcohol

The Mayo Joint Policing Committee is to write to the Minister for Health Simon Harris, urging him to implement the legislation on minimum price per unit of alcohol. It comes at a time when supermarkets and off-licences are advertising bottles of beer that are…

Dec 15, 2019

Mayo Councilor seeks meeting with Inland Fisheries Ireland over declining stock numbers in Mayo Lakes

The CEO and the board of Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) are failing to do a job that they are paid for, in securing the future of the wild brown trout on lakes in south Mayo. That’s the view expressed by Ballinrobe based Fine Gael councillor, Michael Burke,…

Dec 15, 2019

Galway and Mayo contain the three most expensive house markets in Connacht

House prices are rising by one per cent year-on-year across the country. The latest Daft.ie Wealth Report shows the value of all Irish residential property is now 519 billion euro. The most expensive market in Connacht-Ulster is in Kinvara, where it'll set…

Dec 15, 2019

Mayo Deputy questions why she is singled out in latest vote-gate story

Mayo TD Lisa Chambers has questioned why she is being singled out in the latest voting controversy. New Dáil footage has emerged showing Fianna Fáil Deputy sitting in Deputy Dooley's seat while votes are being cast. The Sunday Independent reports that seven…

Dec 15, 2019

Met Eireann extends national Status Yellow alert until tomorrow

Met Éireann's extended its national Status Yellow alert for snow and ice until tomorrow morning. Wintry showers are expected to spread from the southwest to all counties throughout the day. Drivers are being warned to be particularly careful. Met Éireann…

Dec 14, 2019

Mayo TD claims plans for broadband connection points resembles 'making it up as you go'

The Government plans to provide 300 broadband connection points bear the hallmarks of making it up as you go along. That’s the view of Mayo Fianna Fáil TD Dara Calleary who has appealed to the government to answer questions surrounding cost, speed and the…

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

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