Four more cases of the Coronavirus confirmed in Ireland

May 29, 2020

Six more people have died from Covid 19

Six more people with Covid-19 have passed away in the Republic. The death toll associated with the disease stands at 1,645. 39 new cases of coronavirus have been reported to the Department of Health, bringing the total number of positive tests to 24,876.

May 29, 2020

Mayo Deputy welcomes news from UL that students will be refunded rent

A Mayo TD has welcomed news from the University of Limerick where students will be refunded rent from the date they vacated their student residence back in March to the end of their semester. Campus Life Services, the University of Limerick company that…

May 29, 2020

Galway comedian attempting challenging charity cycle tomorrow

Galway comedian Stevo Timothy is attempting to complete a charity cycle tomorrow evening in aid of the Irish Wheelchair Association. The Galway comic, who has incomplete paraplegia following a motorbike accident in 2015, uses a wheelchair and walks with the…

May 29, 2020

Man remanded in custody after appearing in court on drug charges

A man has been charged in connection with the discovery of a suspected cannabis growhouse in Ballina. The accused was remanded in custody to appear before Harristown District Court next Friday. The man, who is in his 30s, was arrested yesterday following a…

May 29, 2020

Taoiseach hails Galway teen as a 'superhero' for creating and donating face masks

A teenager from Co Galway has made over 1,000 masks and has donated them, often anonymously to members of her local community, healthcare professionals and even the Taoiseach. 13-year old Lauren O’Grady has been making her colourful facemasks at home on her…

May 29, 2020

Principals want answers now on the government's school reopening plans

The National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals says it's important decisions about the reopening of schools are made without delay - so teachers can start planning for the next academic year. The Department of Education will publish a road map…

May 29, 2020

Five people arrested in connection with major drug seizures by gardai in Ballina yesterday

Five people were arrested and more arrests are anticipated as an estimated €333,000 worth of drugs were seized by gardai yesterday in the Ballina area, according to Garda Chief Superintendent for Mayo, Tony Healy. Members of the Mayo Divisional Drugs…

May 29, 2020

Castlebar Chamber undertakes survey of local businesses to see how it can assist in re-openings

As Covid 19 restrictions are being lifted in phases, various businesses across the region are facing significant challenges in facing the new regulations that are required for the to successfully re-open – adhering to strict new hygiene rules and adherence to…

May 29, 2020

Green light for new bridge and pathway to link Turlough village to the Greenway

The green light has been given for construction to get underway on a new bridge and pathway that will link the village of Turlough to the greenway. The Part 8 planning was approved by members of Castlebar Municipal District earlier this week. Fianna Fail…

May 29, 2020

The lifting of Covid restrictions in some counties not ruled out, according to Dr Tony Holohan

The chief medical officer says speeding up the lifting of coronavirus restrictions in some counties hasn't been ruled out. But he's insisted there's no reason to have different approaches in parts of the country at the moment. The latest figures show a…

May 29, 2020

The body of a woman was recovered from the sea off Achill yesterday

The body of a woman was recovered from the sea on Achill Island yesterday evening. The woman, who was in her forties, went missing while walking in the Dooagh area yesterday afternoon (Thursday). Her name has not been released by gardai, but it’s understood…

May 29, 2020

333,000 euro drug seizure by Gardai in the Ballina area yesterday

Gardaí seized an estimated €333,000 worth of drugs in the Ballina area yesterday as part of an operation targeting the sale and supply of drugs in the Mayo Garda Division. Members of the Mayo Divisional Drugs Taskforce, the Armed Support Unit, the Garda Dog…

May 28, 2020

A number of nursing homes in Mayo refute the number of deaths related to Covid or suspected Covid cases, as reported on Midwest News today

A number of nursing homes across the county insist the report of deaths due to confirmed or suspected COVID 19, reported on Midwest news today, are incorrect. The numbers from a confidential HSE report, were published in today’s Irish Times. The Pilgrims…

May 28, 2020

Brookvale Manor says they're devastated at loss of residents who died from Covid-19

Following a report in today's Irish Times that 9 residents at Brookvale Manor Nursing Home in Ballyhaunis have died of confirmed or suspected Covid-19, the operators of the facility - Brindley Healthcare - have issued a statement to Midwest News. The company…

May 28, 2020

Belmullet enjoying temperature of 23 degrees

Temperatures could reach 28 degrees in some places today. Met Eireann says it's expected to be the hottest day of the year, and the warm weather will continue into the weekend. Belmullet and Mount Dillon in Roscommon are the hottest spots so far today - both…

May 28, 2020

Deadline tonight for Leaving Cert students to register for calculated grades

Tonight is the deadline for Leaving Cert students to register for the Calculated Grades online portal. In order to get a certificate of Calculated Grades, all Leaving Cert and LCA students must register online before 10pm tonight at…

May 28, 2020

Water supplies disrupted this morning in Elphin area of Co Roscommon

Water supplies in the Elphin area of Co Roscommon may be impacted today, as a result of an electrical outage in the area between 10am and 2pm. Irish Water and Roscommon County Council are advising customers in Elphin Town, Shankill Cross, Ballyroddy and…

May 28, 2020

Meissner's new manufacturing facility in Castlebar now operational

American company Meissner Filtration Products has announced today that their new manufacturing facility in Castlebar is now operational. Last year, the company purchased a building constructed by IDA Ireland and adjacent land with plans to triple the…

May 28, 2020

Lifeguarding season begins on Mayo beaches this Saturday

Mayo County Council has confirmed that beach lifeguarding season will begin this Bank Holiday Weekend with lifeguard teams on duty from 12:00pm Saturday on official beaches. Co Mayo’s official life-guarded beaches are: Keem Bay, Keel Beach, Silver Strand,…

May 28, 2020

Knock Shrine to take part in global Rosary with Pope Francis on Saturday

Knock Shrine is to take part in a global Rosary with the Pope this Saturday. Pope Francis is to join in prayer with Marian shrines across the world to pray for help amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, and Knock Shrine is among the sanctuaries across the five…

May 28, 2020

Sunshine and highs of 26 degrees forecast for the West today

The West of Ireland is set to bask in sunshine today, with temperatures expected to soar to 26 degrees or higher in places. Meet Eireann the warm and mostly dry weather will continue over the Bank Holiday Weekend, with temperatures of 22-24 degrees in…

May 28, 2020

No new cases of Covid-19 in Mayo for fourth day in succession

There have been no new confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Mayo for the fourth day in a row. Nationally, a further 17 deaths from the virus were reported last evening, with 73 new cases confirmed. Across Connacht, the only county to show an increase was Galway,…

May 28, 2020

Irish Rail will be invited to address Castlebar councillors over level crossing concerns

Councillors have agreed to write to Irish Rail inviting them to address a meeting of the Castlebar Municipal District to hear the concerns of the community who live close to the notorious Kilnageer Level Crossing. Three members of the Kilnageer community…

May 27, 2020

17 new deaths from Covid-19

A further 17 people have died from Covid 19 in the Republic. It brings the death toll to 1631. 73 new cases have also been confirmed. A total of 24,803 people have now contracted the virus here.

May 27, 2020

Man who died in last night's road collision named as Brendan Heffernan

The man who died in last night's road collision between Newport and Mulranny has been named locally as Brendan Heffernan originally from Carrowgarve in Crossmolina but living in Westport. The collision between a motorbike and a tractor occurred at about 8.30…

May 27, 2020

CEO of HSE to compile a report on Covid care at Mayo University Hospital

Minister Simon Harris has asked the CEO of the HSE to compile a report addressing the issues raised, over several weeks now, around the management of Covid and non covid patients at Mayo University Hospital . Minister Harris confirmed that to Mayo Fianna Fail…

May 27, 2020

Mayo bus company ready to transport commuters to work as restrictions begin to phase out

A Mayo bus company is ready to help transport commuters to work, as Covid-19 restrictions begin to phase out. Corduff Travel, like many public transport services, was severely hit by the lockdown, losing around 99% of its usual business. Out of a fleet of…

May 27, 2020

Chief Medical Officer tells Ministers he won't be recommending a change to the two metre rule

The Chief Medical Officer has told government Ministers he won't be recommending a change to the two metre social distancing rule at the moment. Some Ministers had asked if it could be reduced to one metre which the World Health Organisation has deemed safe.…

May 27, 2020

Export of Irish Beef to China temporarily suspended

A case of BSE, or 'mad cow disease', has been confirmed in an Irish animal. The Department of Agriculture says an 'atypical' case of the disease has been detected in a 14-year-old cow. All Irish beef exports to China have been temporarily suspended. IFA…

May 27, 2020

N59 Newport to Mulranny road reopens following fatal collision

The N59 road between Newport and Mulranny has reopened following a fatal crash last night in which a motorcyclist died. The collision between a motorbike and tractor occurred at about 8.30 pm at Ardagh, Newport. The driver of the motorcycle, a man in his…

May 27, 2020

Questions remain despite clear statement by Saolta over the management of Covid and non Covid patients at MUH

Saolta has now clearly stated that at Mayo University Hospital Covid 19 and non covid 19 patients are not in the same wards and that there is no crossover of staff between patients with the virus and without it. Saolta issued the statement yesterday evening…

May 27, 2020

All Supermacs outlets in Mayo have now reopened

Supermacs has confirmed that it has now reopened all of its outlets in Mayo. The Ballyhaunis outlet was the latest Supermac's to start providing a limited service to customers, as part of the phased reopening of outlets. A spokesman for the company said all 9…

May 27, 2020

Minister Ring in favour of reducing the two-metre social distance rule

The Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan will brief Cabinet Ministers this afternoon about how Ireland is doing in the fight against Covid 19. The two metre social distancing rule and Covid-19 restrictions are expected to dominate the agenda. New coronavirus…

May 27, 2020

Mayo / Roscommon Hospice shops to reopen on 9th June

Mayo / Roscommon Hospice has confirmed that its shops across the two counties will reopen on Tuesday 9th June. The 12 charity shops were closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which has severely impacted on the Hospice revenue. However, the Hospice has…

May 27, 2020

Motorcyclist dies in collision with tractor near Newport

A motorcyclist has died following a collision near Newport last night. The collision between a motorbike and tractor occurred at about 8.30 pm at Ardagh, Newport. The driver of the motorcycle, a man in his 30's, was pronounced dead at the scene, and his body…

May 27, 2020

Saolta denies crossover of staff at Mayo University Hospital

Staff at Mayo University Hospital do not treat patients with Covid-19 as well as non-Covid patients. That's according to a statement from the Saolta Hospital Group, which was sent to Midwest News yesterday evening, following ongoing concerns expressed by…

May 27, 2020

No new cases of Covid-19 confirmed in Connacht in past 24 hours

There have been no new cases of Covid-19 in Connacht over the past 24 hours. Latest figures show that the number of confirmed cases in Mayo is unchanged over the past two days at 568. There are 461 confirmed cases in Co Galway, 319 in Roscommon, 129 in Sligo…

May 26, 2020

Ballina twins to undertake Tik Tok challenge to raise funds for Western Care

Two Mayo teenagers are hoping to raise enough funds this weekend to purchase a new vehicle for Western Care. Twin sister Abi and Ava Galvin from Ballina are doing a 24hr Tik Tok challenge with the aim of raising €10,000 for the local charity. From 12 mid-day…

May 26, 2020

A Swinford newsagents has closed after over 200 years in business

A Swinford newsagents has closed its doors permanently after over 200 years in business. Mellett’s Newsagency has been selling newspapers in the town for around 223 years and has been in its current location since 1985. The family business announced on their…

May 26, 2020

Castlebar Cathaoirleach calls on HIQA to assess what's happening at MUH over staff crossover between covid and non covid patients

The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) needs to be called in to establish what is happening at Mayo University Hospital in relation to the crossover of hospital staff with covid and non covid patients. That’s the view of the Cathaoirleach of…

May 26, 2020

Works to begin later this year on road realignment between Dunmore & Tuam

The long-awaited road realignment project at an accident blackspot between Dunmore and Tuam is to go to tender. A number of collisions have occurred in recent years at Twenty Minute Hill on the N83 Dunmore-Tuam road, and traffic lights have been in place,…

May 26, 2020

Bathing water quality at 12 Mayo beaches "excellent", says EPA

The bathing water quality at 12 out of Mayo's 15 beaches has been described as excellent in the latest EPA report. The Bathing Water in Ireland report for 2019 shows that, overall, bathing water quality improved across the country last year, with 95% of…

May 26, 2020

Irish Water are working to repair a burst water main in west Roscommon

Parts of west Roscommon will be without water supply until this evening following a burst water main. The areas affected include Feigh, Shannon Cross, Briarfield, Silverfield, Curraghsallagh, Lisacul Village and surrounds. Irish Water and Roscommon County…

May 26, 2020

Poor quality bathing water at two Galway beaches identified in latest EPA report

Water at Galway’s Clifden and Ballyloughnane beaches were found to be poor , according to the latest water quality report by the Environmental Protection Agency. However,swimmers will no longer be allowed into the water at Dublin's Merrion Strand. It's after…

May 26, 2020

IFA warn against pranks with farm machinery - activities popular on social media sites

People carrying out pranks with farm machinery should be reported to gardaí, according to the Irish Farmers Association. It's after footage emerged on Tik Tok showing users filming dangerously on tractors and trailers. There have been eight people killed on…

May 26, 2020

Question over crossover of staff at MUH between covid and non covid patients remains unanswered by Saolta

Midwest News asked Saolta since last week, to clarify if there continues to be crossover of staff at Mayo University Hospital between Covid 19 and non Covid 19 patients. We asked for an interview with the CEO of Saolta Tony Canavan or the Manager of Mayo…

May 26, 2020

No new Covid 19 deaths reported yesterday, the first time since March 21st

Yesterday marked the first time no new virus-related deaths were recorded since March 21st, and it came on the back of a recent downward trend. Dr Tony Holohan has described the latest Covid-19 figures as a "positive development," but warned against…

May 25, 2020

No new deaths reported from Covid-19 today

No new Covid-19 deaths have been reported today. It's the first time since mid-March. 59 new cases of the virus have been confirmed. It means the death toll from the virus remains at 1,606 while the total number of cases is 24,698.

May 25, 2020

Saolta issues statement amid concerns of Covid-19 control measures at Mayo University Hospital

The Saolta Hospital Group has issued a statement to Midwest News this evening, stating that Mayo University Hospital "has implemented a range of infection prevention and control practices to manage suspect and confirmed Covid-19 patients and reduce Covid…

May 25, 2020

Priests say calls for public Masses to be reinstated are "grossly irresponsible"

Priests have hit out at people who are calling for public Masses to be reinstated. The Association of Catholic Priests says it is 'grossly irresponsible'. The association has released a statement, saying "efforts demanding that churches be kept open and…

May 25, 2020

Online registration for Leaving Cert calculated grades opens tomorrow morning

Online registration for Leaving Cert calculated grades opens tomorrow at 10am. Participating students should log on to gov.ie/leavingcertificate where they will be be asked which level they are choosing. They will need: their exam number, their PPS number,…

May 25, 2020

AIMS nominations for Ballinrobe, Castlebar & Claremorris Musical Societies

Ballinrobe, Castlebar and Claremorris Musical Societies are among eight musical societies in the Western region who have been nominated for AIMS awards this year. Ballinrobe Musical Society were nominated for two awards following their production of "The…

May 25, 2020

Irish Water advice for businesses reopening after lockdown

Irish Water has launched advice for businesses that are reopening their premises after lockdown. The company has published a list of measures that owners and managers can take to mitigate risks such as leaks, blockages and stagnant water. Irish Water says a…

May 25, 2020

Trocaire urges people across the West to return their Lenten Appeal boxes

Trocaire is urging people across the West to return their boxes, after donations to its Lenten Appeal fell by almost two-thirds, due to Covid-19. The charity has issued an urgent appeal to supporters to return donations from their Trocaire boxes, as the 60%…

May 25, 2020

Eir working to resolve problem in parts of Mayo & Sligo

Eir say they're working to resolve a problem in areas of Mayo and Sligo, which has impacted on mobile phone and broadband coverage for a number of customers. The company says there was an ESB power outage over the weekend which impacted on the Eir networks in…

May 25, 2020

Minister insists no plans at present to locate a direct provision centre in any Mayo location

There were reports circulating on social media over the weekend that a direct provision centre for asylum seekers was to be located in Westport town. Midwest News contacted Minister Michael Ring today and asked him about the rumours. Minister Ring says he was…

May 25, 2020

Saolta again called on to clarify whether or not there is any crossover of staff at MUH between covid and non covid patients

Saolta, the organisation in charge of hospitals across this region, now needs to come out and clarify to the public if crossover of staff at Mayo University Hospital between covid and non covid patients is continuing. That’s the view of Aontu member in Mayo…

May 25, 2020

Tubbercurry hoping to reap the rewards of 'Normal People' exposure

The Sligo town of Tubbercurry is hoping to reap the rewards of the hit T.V phenomenon that is ‘Normal People’. Adapted from Castlebar woman Sally Rooney’s novel, the show follows the story of two teenagers and their relationship from sixth year until the end…

May 25, 2020

Hairdressers and barbers to put proposals to government to re-open sooner

Hairdressers will present numerous proposals to the government this week in an effort to open earlier than planned.The proposals include over 100 recommendations like wearing PPE and removing magazines.Hair salons and barber shops are due to reopen on July…

May 25, 2020

Speeding motorist in Mayo found to have a fake driving license and no NCT on their vehicle

Gardaí from Mayo Divisional Roads Policing Unit stopped a motorist driving in excess of the speed limit on the N5. It was also established that the car did not have an NCT Certificate and the driver was in possession of a Fake Driving Licence. Gardaí detained…

May 25, 2020

Westport Councillor calls on local communities to look at potential cycle routes in their areas and to bring ideas to local councilors

A Westport councillor has called on local community and residents groups to look at potential cycle routes in their area, and then bring their ideas to local councillors. Fine Gael councillor Peter Flynn says Minister Ring’s department is open to funding such…

May 25, 2020

Covid 19 cases nationally are falling, but continue to rise in Connaught

The Government is said to be considering accelerating the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions if the number of new cases continues to decline. The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar may make an announcement in early June on easing parts of the lockdown. The next phase in…

May 25, 2020

Deputy calls for advertising campaign to alert recipients of Covid payments about potential tax liability

Recipients of the Covid-19 unemployment payment could be in for a “terrible shock” at the end of the year if an awareness campaign explaining that they could have a tax liability for the benefit does not start soon, a Sligo TD has warned. Independent…

May 24, 2020

4 more deaths from Covid-19 along with 57 new cases

4 more people with COVID-19 have died. There have now been a total 1,608 COVID-19 related deaths in Ireland. 57 more confirmed cases of COVID-19 have also been detected, bringing the total to 24,639.

May 24, 2020

Mayo Green Party member can't see government formation compromises with Fine Gael

A Mayo Green Party member says she would be 'absolutely shocked' if the party's grassroots membership voted in favour of a programme for government with Fine Gael and Fianna Fail. 2020 General Election candidate, Saoirse McHugh, made the comments earlier this…

May 24, 2020

West of Ireland duo launch eco-friendly clothing range

Two former students of St. Muredach’s college in Ballina have launched an eco-friendly clothing range. Richard Grimes (20) from Enniscrone and Peter Timlin (19) from Ballina have spent the past few months establishing their Pure clothing brand and are now…

May 24, 2020

Mayo TD calls on the government to stand up to the Insurance Industry and the Banks

The Government must stand up for business owners and people who are self-employed against the Insurance Industry and the Banks. That's the view of Mayo Sinn Fein TD Rose Conway-Walsh who says business people are wondering whether the insurance industry is…

May 24, 2020

Government to cut the Pandemic Unemployment Payment in June

Tens of thousands of workers who were getting the Pandemic Unemployment Payment will be moved to receiving jobseekers' benefit. The Sunday Times reports ministers will present plans to cut back the payment for part-time workers next week. It follows claims by…

May 24, 2020

Nursing Homes told to withhold information on Covid-19 outbreaks

Nursing homes were told not to reveal the extent of any Covid-19 outbreaks to residents' families. The Business Post reports a Nursing Homes Ireland memo from March advised managers not to provide updates on "the total number of suspected confirmed cases…

May 24, 2020

Mayo Professor calls for the Leaving Cert to be changed post Covid-19

The Leaving Cert isn't as fair as people think, according to a UCD Professor and former teacher. Covid-19 has meant for the first time the written exams have been cancelled and replaced with predictive grades, which will be given by teachers. Carnacon woman…

May 24, 2020

Market reopens for food traders only following social distancing concerns

A market in Galway City has reopened today for food traders only following its closure because of a lack of social distancing yesterday. Galway City Council were advised by Gardaí to close St Nicholas' market as they believed the public were not adhering the…

May 24, 2020

Male youth arrested after allegedly stealing a frontline worker's bicycle

Castlebar Gardaí recovered a bicycle stolen from the GMIT car park at Mayo University Hospital which belonged to a frontline worker. The property was taken from the bike shelter in the car park on Thursday while its owner was working in the hospital. Gardaí…

May 23, 2020

13 further deaths from Covid 19

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has been informed of an additional 13 deaths related to Covid-19, bringing the total number of deaths in Ireland related to the novel coronavirus to 1,604. A further 76 confirmed cases have also been announced. There…

May 23, 2020

Community meeting held at the Kilnageer railway crossing calling for the installation of automated gates

There was a community meeting at the Kilnageer railway crossing today where the new lights system were activated during the week. Cllrs Al McDonnell, Ger Deere and Cyril Burke were all in attendance. The community spoke about their disappointment with the new…

May 23, 2020

Taoiseach says current two metre social distancing rules still stand

The Taoiseach says the current two metre rules around social distancing still stand. The issue was raised at Cabinet yesterday, with some ministers calling for it to be reduced to one metre, in line with WHO recommendations. It's expected it'll once again be…

May 23, 2020

Health Minister announces the establishment of Covid-19 nursing home expert panel

The Health Minister has announced the establishment of a Covid 19 nursing home expert panel. It'll look at the measures currently in place here to protect residents, and review the international response to coronavirus in those settings. 867 people living in…

May 23, 2020

Lissadell House owners say turning it into a music venue will boost the regional hospitality sector after the pandemic

The transformation of Lissadell House in Co Sligo into a major music venue will provide a boost to the hospitality sector across the region in the wake of Covid-19. That's according to Constance Cassidy and Constance Walsh of Lissadell House, who revealed to…

May 23, 2020

Researchers at NUI Galway's iHealthFacts help to verify Covid-19 claims

Researchers at NUI Galway, who operate the Covid-19 fact checking website iHealthFacts, have found the most commonly asked question is whether the public should wear face masks. The Health Research Board set up the website in April and has recently dismissed…

May 23, 2020

Gardaí recover bicycle stolen from frontline worker at Mayo University Hospital

A Radiography Assistant whose bicycle was stolen, received a brand new complimentary one yesterday. Claire Walsh's yellow and black bike was stolen from Mayo University Hospital's GMIT shelter on Thursday. Westport Bike Shop delivered a brand new one to the…

May 23, 2020

Government ministers discuss possible relaxing of physical distancing rules

Some government ministers are pushing for physical distancing rules to be relaxed. The Irish Examiner reports 'robust' discussions were held at Cabinet yesterday about changing the advice from two metres to one. Current World Health Organisation guidelines…

May 23, 2020

€243,000 in funding approved for Downpatrick Head Community Water Connection

€243,000 in funding has been approved for the Downpatrick Head Community Water Connection. That’s according to the Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring. The Fine Gael TD confirmed that Minister Eoghan Murphy signed off on approval for the…

May 23, 2020

11 further deaths from Covid-19 as easing of restrictions could be introduced for children

An easing of Covid-19 restrictions for children could be introduced early next month. The National Public Health Emergency Team's working with several Government departments to examine how some measures could be lifted for under-18s in Phase 2, due to come…

May 23, 2020

Woman arrested and €50,000 worth of drugs seized in Roscommon

A woman has been arrested and 50,000 euro worth of drugs have been seized in Co. Roscommon. The cocaine was discovered after Gardaí stopped and searched a vehicle on the N5 at Tulsk at around 7:30 yesterday evening. A woman in her late teens was arrested and…

May 22, 2020

ASTI agrees to Leaving cert exam grading system

The ASTI has advised its members to engage with the calculated grades system for this year's Leaving Cert. The union's resolved a dispute with the Department of Education over legal protection for teachers. The calculated grades system for this year's Leaving…

May 22, 2020

Green light for new a fire station in Crossmolina

The go ahead has been given for a new fire station for Crossmolina and the project has opened for receipt of tenders for construction on Etenders today. The closing date for receipt of tenders is 1st July and all going to plan we should see the long awaited…

May 22, 2020

The chimney of the Old Connaught Laundry Site in Galway City collapses in high winds

The chimney of the Old Connacht Laundry Site in Galway City collapsed in the early hours of this morning, resulting in the closure of St. Helen’s Street for much of the morning. A passerby contacted Mill Street Gardaí at 8:30am this morning after they saw the…

May 22, 2020

Pause lifted on GMA funding in Mayo for voluntary and community groups

The GMA (General Municipal Allocation) monies that had been “paused” by council officials last week for voluntary and community groups across county Mayo are now to be paid out in agreed phases. The development has emerged following a meeting yesterday…

May 22, 2020

Man arrested after gardai seize cash and cocaine in a house in Galway city

Gardaí in Galway arrested a man and seized more than €31,000 in cash, and suspected cocaine from a house in Galway city yesterday. At 10pm last night gardaí attached to the Divisional Drugs Unit searched a house under warrant at Ballybane in the city, where…

May 22, 2020

Minister confirms grants allocated to Tidy Town Groups for 2020 stand despite cancellation of this year's competition

Funding allocated to support the Tidy Towns groups this year is still be available to them, even though the SuperValu TidyTowns competition has had to be cancelled this year due to public health considerations. That has been confirmed by Minister for Rural…

May 22, 2020

Tender to be published shortly for N83 Dunmore road in Tuam

The tender for road realignment at Twenty Minute Hill on the N83, Tuam to Dunmore Road, will be published in the coming weeks, according to Galway East TD and Minister for Rural Affairs Seán Canney. Minister Canney told Midwest News today that this section of…

May 22, 2020

Tributes paid to the late Anthony Vesey of Castlebar

The death has taken place of Anthony Vesey of Castlebar. Mr Vesey stood as an Independent candidate in last year’s local elections. He was a member of the Irish Republican Socialist Party and the party has paid tribute to him on social media saying that,…

May 22, 2020

Frontline worker gifted bicycle following the theft of hers while working at Mayo University Hospital

The bicycle of a frontline worker at Mayo University Hospital was stolen yesterday. The Castlebar woman started her shift at the hospital at 8:30 yesterday morning and she left to go home to find her bicycle was missing. The bicycle was left in the bike…

May 22, 2020

Number of positive Covid 19 cases in Mayo up by two again - now stands at 560 cases

Some Covid-19 restrictions could be eased sooner, specifically for children and their parents. The National Public Health Emergency Team meets this morning to examine how to lift some of the measures to reduce the burden on young families. Public health…

May 22, 2020

Call by councillors for delivery of promised site and school to the Holy Trinity School Wesport

West Mayo Councillors have called on the Minister for Education to intervene and insist that the site and funding promised by the Dept of Education for a new school building for The Holy Trinity school in Westport is immediately provided. The issue was raised…

May 22, 2020

Success for Claremorris students at Eco-unesco awards

Mayo teenagers Sophia Hession, Orlaith Heaney, Caoimhe Monaghan and Aoibheann Mangan from Mount St Michael Secondary school in Claremorris, were named as winners of the Junior Eco Community Development Award at the Young Environmentalist Awards hosted by…

May 22, 2020

Yellow wind warning in place until 9pm tonight across western coastal counties

Three yellow wind warnings are in place across the country. The warnings are impacting on counties Mayo, Galway, Donegal, Sligo, Clare and Kerry and will be in effect until 9pm tonight. Met Eireann says 'unseasonably' windy weather is leading to gusts of up…

May 22, 2020

Roscommon deputy calls for ramping up of HSA inspections at meat factories

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane has accused Minister Creed of having a ‘total hands-off approach’ to Covid-19 outbreaks in meat factories. Deputy Kerrane was speaking during statements and questions with the Minister for Agriculture in the…

May 21, 2020

Planning underway for a potential second wave of the Coronavirus

Planning is underway for a potential second wave of the Coronavirus this autumn that could coincide with flu season. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said the virus has been effectively suppressed in the community and the current data is positive. A decision on…

May 21, 2020

Gyms could open sooner than the 10th of August, if the government had enough HSA inspectors, according to Ballina gym owner

Gyms could open sooner than the 10th of August, if the government had enough Health and Safety (HSA) inspectors in place. That’s the view of Ballina based gym owner Paul Ginty of Quay Fitness Ballina. He is calling on the Minister for Sport Shane Ross, to…

May 21, 2020

Extended wind warnings for coastal counties

Met Eireann has extended its wind warnings for coastal counties tonight and tomorrow. A status yellow wind warning is in place for counties Mayo and Galway which will come into effect from 9pm tonight until 9pm tomorrow night. A yellow wind warning has also…

May 21, 2020

Concerns over Mayo University Hospital raised with Health Minister

The Saolta Hospital group needs to make a statement urgently on claims of a crossover of nursing staff between Covid and non-Covid patients at Mayo University Hospital. That's the view of Mayo Fianna Fail TD Dara Calleary, who has also written to the Minister…

May 21, 2020

National Slow Down Day gets underway from 7am tomorrow morning

Gardai will undertake a 24-hour National Slow Down Day from 7am tomorrow morning. With more road deaths recorded so far this year compared to last year, Gardai and the Road Safety Authority say we can never be complacent about road safety. 56 people have died…

May 21, 2020

Over 1,000 Mayo properties at risk of coastal flooding caused by climate change

More than 70,000 Irish homes and premises - including over 1,000 in Co Mayo - are in danger of coastal flooding caused by climate change, according to new data compiled for the insurance industry. Dublin, Louth and Clare would suffer the greatest damage in…

May 21, 2020

Bank of Ireland management asked to clarify plans for Ballyhaunis branch

The Bank of Ireland needs to clarify its plans for the future of the branch in Ballyhaunis. That's according to local solicitor Evan O'Dwyer, who has written to the Bank of Ireland CEO Francesca McDonagh on behalf of a number of local businesses and…

May 21, 2020

2 additional cases of Covid-19 in Mayo

Restrictions on the length of workplace meetings due to Covid-19 will be in place for the foreseeable future. The Houses of the Oireachtas and the Courts are limiting sittings to under two hours, following HSE guidance, while the Health Minister will only…

May 21, 2020

Nurses claim crossover of staff between Covid and non-Covid patients continuing at Mayo University Hospital

Nurses at Mayo University Hospital claim the crossover of staff between Covid-19 patients and non-Covid patients has continued up to this week, despite a claim by the Saolta Hospital group that this practice had ceased a month ago. Following concerns…

May 21, 2020

Yellow wind warning for Mayo & Galway tonight & tomorrow

Met Eireann has issued a status yellow wind warning for Mayo and Galway for tonight and tomorrow. Following a period of very mild weather, the two counties can expect south to southeast winds gusting to between 85 and 110 km/h, mainly in coastal areas and on…

May 20, 2020

Campaign continues for automated level crossing at Kilnageer, Castlebar

The new lights installed by Irish Rail at the notorious Kilnageer railway crossing outside Castlebar, were commissioned yesterday. However, it remains a manual crossing, despite being located along a busy road that links Belcarra to Breaffy. It has been the…

May 20, 2020

New Covid-19 test facility opens at Castlerea Fire Station

A new drive-through test facility for coronavirus has opened today in Castlerea. The HSE has confirmed to Midwest News that, in line with their plans to increase Covid-19 testing, a new facility has opened today at the Castlerea Fire Station, which has been…

May 20, 2020

New Tourism Recovery Taskforce set up

A Galway restauranteur and the CEO of Center Parcs in Longford are among the members of a new Tourism Recovery Taskforce, dedicated to spearheading economic recovery for the tourism sector. Minister Shane Ross says tourism is Ireland's largest indigenous…

May 20, 2020

Lotto prize won in Roscommon in mid-March not yet claimed

A Lotto prize won two months ago in Roscommon Town has yet to be claimed. The ticket was sold at McNeill's Foodstore in Roscommon on Saturday 14th March, and is worth over €96,000. Shop owner Liam McNeill has taken to social media to appeal to customers to…

May 20, 2020

Faulty surgical gowns being modified at Co Roscommon training centres

Surgical gowns, which were part of a consignment of faulty PPE sent from China to the HSE, are being modified at three HSE Mental Health Service Training Centres across Co Roscommon to make them useable. On arrival from China, the sleeves of the surgical…

May 20, 2020

Mayo TD highlights anomaly in Covid-19 wage subsidy scheme

A Mayo TD is calling on Government to sort out the anomaly where women returning from maternity leave are not entitled to the Covid-19 Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme. The scheme enables employees to receive State supports through their employer's payroll in…

May 20, 2020

Vigil Croagh Patrick Pilgrimage Mass will be live-streamed on Sat, July 25th

The cancellation of the 2020 Croagh Patrick pilgrimage was announced yesterday by the Administrator in Westport, Fr Charlie McDonnell. The event has been cancelled due to public health concerns and the practicalities of adhering to social distancing rules…

May 20, 2020

Over €500,000 allocated for four Mayo piers & harbours

Funding of over half a million euro has been allocated for improvement works at four piers and harbours in Co Mayo. Roonagh, Killala and Blacksod piers and Ballina Harbour will all benefit from the funding, which will be allocated through Mayo County Council…

May 20, 2020

Increase in Covid-19 cases in meat processing plants

Meanwhile, a further four Covid-19 clusters have been confirmed in meat processing plants in the past seven days, bringing the total to 16. They account for 828 cases, an increase of 328 over the week. Meat Industry Ireland says it's disappointed by the rise,…

May 20, 2020

HSE will no longer inform employers ahead of workers about Covid-19 test results

Employers will no longer be told about their workers Covid-19 test results. Yesterday, the HSE confirmed the issue had been taking place in some 'exceptional' circumstances. However, it now says the practice is being suspended as it seeks advice on the matter…

May 19, 2020

Further 16 deaths from Covid-19, and 51 new cases confirmed

A further 16 people with Covid-19 have died. 51 new cases have also been confirmed this evening. It brings the death toll from the virus to 1,561, while there are 24,251 confirmed cases in this country.

May 19, 2020

Re-opening of Croagh Patrick carpark delayed

Mayo County Council has delayed the reopening of the Croagh Patrick carpark at Murrisk. This comes following confirmation this morning that the annual Reek Sunday pilgrimage, which takes place on the last Sunday in July, has been cancelled this year due to…

May 19, 2020

HSE ignored data protection rights by informing employers of test results first, says Roscommon TD

The Data Protection Commission is examining complaints it has received in relation to Covid 19 test results being made available to employers before staff members. It centres on tests carried out at certain facilities. Individuals have expressed shock and…

May 19, 2020

Health boss says Covid-19 emergency phase may be with us for months or years

The emergency phase of COVID-19 may be with us for months or years according to the head of the Department of Health. Jim Breslin has said the virus will be an ever-present danger for the foreseeable future. The Dáil's new COVID-19 committee is holding a…

May 19, 2020

Emergency repairs underway to burst watermain in Cloonfad area

Irish Water and Roscommon County Council are carrying out emergency repairs to a burst watermain, which is impacting on customers in Cloonfad, Clooneish and surrounding areas of south Roscommon. Consumers in these areas may experience low water pressure or…

May 19, 2020

Argos reopens some stores in the West for online reservation orders only

Argos has reopened some of its stores, as part of the easing of restrictions, for online reservation orders only. The Argos stores at Hopkins Road in Castlebar, Headford Road in Galway and Cleveragh Retail Park in Sligo have reopened but only for online…

May 19, 2020

Cathaoirleach is insisting that "paused" GMA fund be restored immediately

The Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council has called on the executive of the local authority to immediately restore funding under the GMA fund, a fund that provides important monies to a wide variety of voluntary and community groups. Speaking to Midwest Radio…

May 19, 2020

Minister considers not speaking at parliamentary party meetings of FG as content of some of yesterday's meeting leaked

Mayo Fine Gael Minister Michael Ring told Midwest Radio News this morning that he may have to consider not speaking at private parliamentary party meetings in the future, after he found himself extensively quoted from yesterday’s private meeting of Fine Gael.…

May 19, 2020

Reek Sunday pilgrimage has been cancelled, another casualty of the Covid19 pandemic

Reek Sunday 2020 has been cancelled.It’s another casualty of the Covid 19 pandemic Local administrator Fr Charlie McDonnell appeals to pilgrims to respect what he terms “the difficult decision”. The decision has been taken after extensive consultation with…

May 19, 2020

Official planning application submitted by Aldi for new store in Ballina

Aldi has now submitted an official planning application for a new store to develop the Deanwood Hotel site in Ballina , a premises that has been derelict for many years. The German company has applied to Mayo County Council for permission to demolish the…

May 19, 2020

Mayo cases of Covid-19 continue to rise, despite falling numbers nationally

While nationally the number of new confirmed cases of Covid-19 falls significantly, it continues to rise in Mayo - with 5 additional cases yesterday. The figures announced yesterday evening show 4 more people have died from Covid-19 in the Republic of…

May 18, 2020

4 deaths today from Covid-19

A further four people have died from Covid-19 in the Republic of Ireland, while another 88 cases of the virus have also been confirmed. It means the death toll now stands at 1,547. There's also now a total of 24,200 confirmed cases.

May 18, 2020

GMA funding for 2020 paused, says Mayo County Council

Councillors in the West Mayo Municipal District were informed today that the GMA funding for 2020 - which provides grants for community and voluntary organisations - has been "paused". Council officials said the funding approved by councillors will not be…

May 18, 2020

Workers returning to work should close their claim for unemployment payment

Workers who are returning to work today, and who had been claiming the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment are advised to close their claim for the payment today, to make sure they will not lose out in getting their payment for this week. The payment is…

May 18, 2020

Funding for agricultural shows can be used in 2021, says Minister Ring

Funding which was allocated for agricultural shows this year can be used in 2021, where shows are being cancelled due to Covid-19. That's according to the Mayo-based Minister for Rural & Community Development Michael Ring. Minister Ring says that, late last…

May 18, 2020

Flu vaccine being made available free to children and at-risk groups

The flu vaccine is being made available free of charge for children aged 2 to 12 years of age. Health Minister Simon Harris has also announced that at-risk groups, aged from 6 months to 69 years can also get the vaccine free of charge. Minister Harris says a…

May 18, 2020

Some businesses & sporting facilities across the region reopen today

Queues have been reported outside a number of business premises in Castlebar this morning, as today marks the first phase of easing the Covid-19 restrictions. Garden centres, DIY stores, golf courses and tennis courses have opened, construction workers have…

May 18, 2020

Cong Abbey grounds reopening today under phase one of easing restrictions

Cong Abbey in Mayo is one of a number of tourism heritage sites reopening to the public today, under the first phase of easing Covid-19 restrictions. The OPW has announced a gradual reopening strategy , ensuring that sites can only reopen where it is possible…

May 18, 2020

Gardaí are investigating after equipment was stolen from local fire units tackling a gorse fire in Gothaganny

Gardai are investigating after fire equipment, with an estimated value of over €2,000 was taken from the scene of a blaze in Gorthaganny while the fire service were dealing with a gorse fire. Units of Ballaghaderreen, Ballyhaunis, Charlestown and Swinford…

May 18, 2020

Fianna Fail join calls to close meat factories until staff test negative for Covid-19

Fianna Fáil's calling for meat factories to be closed until staff have tested negative for Covid-19. There are at least 12 outbreaks in plants across the country - and more than 550 cases. Fianna Fáil says all staff in meat factories should be tested even if…

May 18, 2020

Trade Union Federation calls for building firm workers to receive maximum protection on returning to work

The Trade Union Federation is calling on building firms to ensure workers are given maximum protection when they return to work today. The union which includes SIPTU, BATU and CONNECT says employees need written assurances on how the safety regulations will…

May 18, 2020

Woodies DIY will not allow stores to become overrun with people as they reopen

There isn't going to be a frenzy at hardware stores as they reopen today, according to the head of Woodies DIY. Garden centres and hardware shops are back open this morning as part of the first easing of Coronavirus restrictions. Woodies chairman Declan…

May 18, 2020

Government formation talks to resume following a Fine Gael and Fianna Fail row over the weekend

The leaders of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party will meet to discuss government formation today. The negotiations themselves will also resume this morning, with a focus on housing. A row broke out between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael over the weekend,…

May 18, 2020

INMO warns against a return to overcrowded emergency departments over the coming weeks

Nurses and doctors say we must ensure overcrowding doesn't return to emergency departments in the coming weeks. The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation and Irish Association for Emergency Medicine fear the problem may come back. They're warning that…

May 18, 2020

The country begins phase one of reopening from Covid-19 restrictions this morning

Ireland is slowly starting to reopen this morning after weeks of Covid-19 restrictions. Health officials are urging people to be cautious as phase one of the roadmap gets under way. From this morning hardware, electrical, IT and phone sales shops will all…

May 18, 2020

Ballinrobe Councillor calls for SUSI grants to be automatically renewed this year

Any person that received a SUSI grant over the last two years should automatically receive their grant for the forthcoming academic year. That’s the view of Ballinrobe based Councillor Michael Burke who says that unless you won the lotto your circumstances…

May 17, 2020

10 more deaths from Covid-19 along with 64 new cases

10 more people with COVID-19 have died. There have now been a total 1,543 COVID-19 related deaths in the country. 64 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 have also been confirmed bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 24,112. There are five new cases in…

May 17, 2020

Westport Councillor calls for efforts to secure the All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil for Mayo in 2023/24

A concerted effort should be made to secure the All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil for county Mayo in 2023/24. That’s the view of the Cathaoirleach of Westport/Belmullet Municipal District Christy Hyland. The Independent councillor made the proposal at this week’s…

May 17, 2020

Virtual Mayo Day estimated to be worth ten times its cost to the county

On the Saturday of the Mayo Bank Holiday weekend just past, virtual Mayo Day 2020 took place. It was a virtual event due to the national pandemic lockdown that the country was, and remains in. Hosted by Mayo County Council, the success of Mayo Day this year…

May 17, 2020

The owner of a Galway car dealership calls car emission reduction targets 'totally unrealistic'

The owner of a Galway car dealership believes car emission reduction targets in the Climate Action Plan are 'totally unrealistic'. James McCormack is the owner of Western Motors in Ballybrit, County Galway and is the Western Region representative for the…

May 17, 2020

Green Party leader says next week is 'crucial' in government formation talks

The Green Party leader says the next week will be 'crucial' in government formation talks. Officials from the party, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail are discussing forming a coalition. Last week the focus was on Justice, Finance and Brexit, with talks expected to…

May 17, 2020

Increase in attendance and admissions at Emergency Departments

There's been a roughly 10 percent increase in attendances and admissions at Emergency Departments in the past week. However they still remain well below what they were this time last year - down 23 and 18 percent respectively. Chief Operations Officer with…

May 17, 2020

Health Minister says Ireland is at a 'crucial moment' in the Covid-19 fight

The Health Minister says Ireland's now at a 'crucial moment' in its fight against Covid-19. Simon Harris' comments come as the first phase of the government's plan to ease restrictions comes into effect tomorrow. Dr Kevin Kelleher from the HSE says sticking…

May 17, 2020

Some non-Covid patients will be tested before attending hospital for elective surgeries

Some non-Covid patients will be tested before entering hospital for elective surgeries. The Business Post reports it's part of the HSE's plan to resume normal service, after non-urgent care was postponed in March due to the pandemic. Procedures that cause…

May 17, 2020

Man flown to hospital following a farm accident near Castlebar yesterday

Emergency services attended the scene of a farm accident at Keelogues, Ballyvary, Castlebar yesterday. A man received what are described as non life threatening injuries when a tractor overturned in a field. The man was taken to hospital from the scene by…

May 17, 2020

Number of daily Covid-19 cases drops below 100 for the first time since mid-March

The country's Chief Medical Officer says yesterday was the first time we've seen the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus fall below 100 since mid-March. There were 92 new confirmed cases of the virus. Another 15 people have died in the Republic, bringing…

May 16, 2020

Mayo Councillor wants LEO to assist businesses to return to work

The Local Enterprise Office will play a major role in local businesses getting back up and running once restrictions are lifted. Ballinrobe Councillor Michael Burke told this week’s County Council meeting that the LEO Office should contact every rate payer in…

May 16, 2020

Mayo Fire Service are at the scene of another forest fire in the Swinford area

Members of the Mayo Fire Service are currently at the scene of a forest fire in the Swinford area. The fire broke out at a Coillte plantation in the Midfield area earlier this afternoon and the alarm was raised at around 2pm. One unit of the fire service are…

May 16, 2020

Three Erris people are running 600km this month for Belmullet Hospital

Three people in Erris are running 600km this month to raise funds for the Belmullet Hospital Comfort Care Fund. The event is being organised by Mai Sweeney whose Grandmother recently passed away at the hospital but the family were overwhelmed with the…

May 16, 2020

Mayo Councillor calls for the establishment of a helpline for people grieving during the pandemic

There is an immediate need for a helpline to be set up where a bereaved person can speak directly to a psychologist or a bereavement counsellor to deal with the very different funeral service for any loved one during the present pandemic lockdown. That’s the…

May 16, 2020

Commercial vehicle roadworthtiness test centres to reopen from Monday

Commercial vehicle roadworthiness testing centres will reopen from Monday. It will be available for vans and cars that were due for a check before March 28th. The Road Safety Authority say if any of the 150 centres across the country cannot follow safety…

May 16, 2020

Irish MEP concerned by lack of progress in Brexit negotiations

The Vice President of the European Parliament says she's concerned by the lack of progress being made in Brexit negotiations. This weeks talks between the UK and EU ended with disagreements on both sides - EU Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier said the UK's…

May 16, 2020

Government draws up plans on how to hold an election during the pandemic

Plans on how to hold a general election during the Covid-19 pandemic are being drawn up by government. It'll see voting spread out over a number of days, there'll be postal votes for 'cocooners' and polling stations in nursing homes. According to the Irish…

May 16, 2020

SIPTU wants the government to mandate face coverings on public transport

The government's being called on to make a U-turn on its decision not to make it mandatory for people to wear face coverings on public transport. The state's recommending people use them on public transport and in shops. But SIPTU's John Murphy says a rethink…

May 16, 2020

HSE warns of syndrome affecting children that may be linked to Covid-19

Parents are being urged to monitor their children for symptoms, as concerns grow over a new rare inflammatory syndrome, thought to be linked to Covid-19. 7 children here have already been investigated for the condition, called PIMS, while there are 230…

May 16, 2020

16 further deaths from Covid-19 in the country

A further 16 people with COVID19 have died. 1,518 people have now lost their lives from the virus in the Republic of Ireland. 129 new cases were confirmed yesterday bringing the total number of cases in the country to 23,956. The number of cases across…

May 15, 2020

Phase one of the easing of Coronavirus restrictions will begin next week

Phase one of the easing of Coronavirus restrictions will begin next week. Cabinet has signed off on the move which will see construction sites, DIY and hardware stores open from Monday. People will also be allowed to play golf or tennis and meet in groups of…

May 15, 2020

Galway TD calling on the HSE to address the serious backlog in children waiting for physiotherapy treatment

More than 7,200 children are waiting for an assessment for physiotherapy with the HSE. According to the latest figures, nearly 1,200 kids have been on the waiting list for over a year. They include over 201 in Galway as well as significant number of people…

May 15, 2020

Forest fire posed serious threats to homes in the Swinford area yesterday evening

A number of Swinford homes were in danger when a forest fire engulfed a Coillte plantation yesterday evening. Mayo Fire Service confirmed that there was a “threat in the early stages to some dwellings” after the fire in Midfield was reported with four fire…

May 15, 2020

Historic funeral of Argentine Ambassador to Ireland in Foxford today

The funeral of the Argentinian Ambassador to Ireland has taken place in Foxford. Laura Bernal died suddenly at her home in Dublin last month. The ambassador was buried in Foxford, in recognition of the town's strong links with Argentina. Ms Bernal was…

May 15, 2020

It could take two years to clear surgery backlog caused by Covid-19

It could take up to two years to clear the backlog of elective surgeries which were cancelled due to Covid-19. New research from the University of Birmingham says 28 million surgeries worldwide could be cancelled or postponed due to the pandemic. There's…

May 15, 2020

Three men arrested after cash & drugs seized in Roscommon

Three men have been arrested after Gardaí in Frenchpark and Castlerea seized more than €15,000 worth of cash and cannabis herb as part of an ongoing operation into the sale and supply of drugs in the area. Gardaí conducted a search of a property in the…

May 15, 2020

Roscommon TD secures Dail debate with the Minister for Agriculture on the scale of covid-19 infection within the meat processing industry

Independent TD Denis Naughten has said many people working in the meat processing sector are afraid to speak out about concerns over Covid-19 safety and hygiene measures in meat production plants. The Roscommon TD says that many workers from non-national…

May 15, 2020

WATCH: Funeral mass for the Argentine Ambassador to Ireland Laura Bernal

May 15, 2020

Mayo family call for an investigation into their father's death in Mayo University Hospital

A Mayo family have called for an investigation into why patients suspected of having been infected with Covid-19 were cared for on the same ward as non-Covid patients. It follows the death of Bellacorrick man Jackie Carolan, who was admitted to the hospital…

May 15, 2020

Fianna Fáil is demanding a Dáil debate on historical sexual abuse in the Irish scouting movement

Fianna Fáil is demanding a Dáil debate on historical sexual abuse in the Irish scouting movement. An internal review commissioned by Scouting Ireland by child safeguarding expert Ian Elliot has found it's hard to determine the full extent of the problem…

May 15, 2020

Driver detected travelling at 204km/hr on the N5 in Mayo on Wednesday night last

A car being driven at 204km/h in a 100km/h zone on the N5 in Mayo shortly after midnight on Wednesday (May 130 was detected by gardai. The gardai pursued and stopped the car. The driver was found in possession of a small quantity of cocaine (subject to…

May 15, 2020

540 confirmed cases of Covid 19 in Mayo

There are fears contact tracing may not have occurred for Covid-19 patients at one hospital in the country. It's after an unnamed facility only told authorities of around 250 confirmed cases, some from as far back as March, yesterday evening. As a result, all…

May 15, 2020

The Argentine Ambassador to Ireland Laura Bernal will be laid to rest in Foxford this afternoon

The Argentine Ambassador to Ireland Laura Bernal will be laid to rest in Foxford this afternoon. Her funeral Mass will take place in St Michael’s Church in Foxford at 12 noon. The late ambassador died suddenly last month. Due to the Covid-19 restrictions,…

May 14, 2020

Department launches a new app for registering calves online

The Department of Agriculture has launched a new app for registering calves online. Calf-Reg is now available free of charge to all herd keepers that have a smart phone. In 2019 over 70% of calves born were registered on the Animal Identification and Movement…

May 14, 2020

"Other Voices" festival worth in excess of 1.5 million euro to local economy in Ballina in 2020

Ballina enjoyed more than 1.5 million euro of an economic boost earlier this year, when the town hosted the “Other Voices” festival. This was the second year in a row that the popular festival, that results in the production of three TV programmes for RTE,…

May 14, 2020

Huge response to fundraiser for Mayo man injured in a farm accident last month

An online fundraiser for a Mayo man, who was injured in a farm accident last month, has received an overwhelming response. Father of three Patrick McDonnell, a member of staff with Mayo County Council, and a native of Straide who lives now in Castlebar,…

May 14, 2020

Taoiseach increasingly confident restrictions can begin to lift from next week

The Taoiseach says he's increasingly confident that Coronavirus restrictions can begin to be unwound from next week. The National Public Health Emergency Team is meeting today and its advice will be considered by cabinet Ministers tomorrow. Leo Varadkar has…

May 14, 2020

Agriculture must be a red-line issue in Govt formation talks, says Mayo Councillor

With Government formation talks continuing between Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and the Green Party, a Mayo Councillor says there are a number of red-line issues of importance to this county, and to the region, which should form part of any Programme for…

May 14, 2020

HSE is hoping for 3-day turaround time for Covid 19 tests from next Monday

The HSE is hoping turnaround times for a Covid test will be three days, from next Monday. The Health Executive says it's been working to update its technology to automate results. Latest figures show there are 23,400 confirmed cases here and 1,497 people have…

May 14, 2020

Quad bikes and scramblers blamed for a number of recent bog fires

A fire warning has been issued by Bord na Mona and the Fire Service. The two organisations are warning that, at this time of year, the countryside is exposed to a higher risk of fire. Fire puts the lives of firefighters at risk, as well as causing major…

May 14, 2020

"Other Voices" festival worth over €1.5 million to Ballina

Ballina enjoyed more than 1.5 million euro of an economic boost earlier this year, when the town hosted the “Other Voices” festival. This was the second year in a row that the popular festival, that results in the production of three TV programmes for RTE,…

May 14, 2020

Clare Island fisherman launches High Court challenge against fibre optic cable being laid off Mayo coast

A Clare Island fisherman has launched High Court proceedings aimed at stopping the laying of fibre optic cable off the Mayo coast, as part of a multi-million international communication project. James O’Toole has brought a legal challenge against the granting…

May 14, 2020

SligoTD calls for 0% VAT rate for hospitality sector

A zero VAT rate is needed for the hospitality sector to give businesses hope for when they re-open - that's according to Sligo-Leitrim TD Marian Harkin, who says tourism-related businesses across the region are currently faced with increasing costs, and are…

May 14, 2020

Govt scraps childcare plans for healthcare workers

The childcare plan for healthcare workers has been scrapped due to a lack of providers. The scheme, which was due to be rolled out from Monday, would see childminders go into the homes of healthcare staff at a cost of 90 euro a week per family. However,…

May 14, 2020

Just one new cases of Covid-19 confirmed in Mayo

The National Public Health Emergency Team meets this morning, a day earlier than expected, to consider what advice it will give on easing some Covid-19 restrictions from next Monday. They'll also decide their position on people wearing masks in shops and on…

May 13, 2020

A further ten people have died from Covid 19

A further ten people with Covid 19 have died in the Republic. It brings the death toll here to 1,497. There are also 159 new confirmed cases - the total now stands at 23,401.

May 13, 2020

Taoiseach says any reopening of schools or childcare facilities needs to be done safely

The Taoiseach says re-opening schools and creches could be one of the safest things the government does when Covid 19 restrictions are eased. The health watchdog says it appears children aren't substantially contributing to the spread of coronavirus in their…

May 13, 2020

How to listen to Midwest Radio with Alexa

Customers can enable The Irish Radioplayer using the Alexa app by saying “Alexa, enable Irish Radioplayer.” Once enabled, customers can start using Irish Radioplayer on demand using just their voice, by saying “Alexa, ask Irish Radioplayer to play Midwest…

May 13, 2020

High Court dismisses legal challenge by John Waters & Gemma O'Doherty

Journalists John Waters and Gemma O'Doherty have been refused permission to challenge the emergency legislation that introduced the Covid-19 restrictions. They wanted the High Court to allow them to bring a judicial review, as part of an attempt to have the…

May 13, 2020

Mayo TD asks Minister to review two aspects of the new Covid-19 Tie-Up scheme for fishermen

A Mayo TD has welcomed the Government's new "Tie-up" scheme for fishermen, to help address their loss of income during the Covid-19 pandemic, but has called on Minister Michael Creed to consider backdating the scheme to the start of this month. The Covid-19…

May 13, 2020

Ambassador's funeral in Foxford to be live streamed on Mayo.ie

Plans are being finalised in Foxford for the funeral on Friday of Ambassador Laura Bernal, the Argentine Ambassador to Ireland. Since taking up the position in March 2016, Ambassador Bernal, who passed away in Dublin two weeks ago, had visited Foxford a…

May 13, 2020

Pieta House in Tuam must not be downgraded, says local Minister

Calls are being made to ensure that Pieta House in Tuam is retained as a fully operative centre, and not downgraded. Galway East TD and Minister for Rural Affairs Sean Canney says the executive of Pieta House is proposing to downgrade 9 of its existing 15…

May 13, 2020

GMIT staff & Ballina company develop new emergency mechanical ventilator

As demand for ventilators increases during the Covid-19 pandemic, staff at the GMIT School of Engineering have designed and developed a new type of emergency mechanical ventilator that can be produced rapidly and inexpensively to assist the medical…

May 13, 2020

Minister Ring opens applications for €35m Covid-19 Stability Fund

Applications are now open for a €35 million Covid-19 Stability Fund, which will provide one-off grant aid to organisations providing critical services for the most vulnerable in society. The Minister for Rural & Community Development Michael Ring is urging…

May 13, 2020

169 people in the West waiting a year or more for National Counselling Service

At least 169 people have been waiting at least a year to be seen by the HSE's National Counselling Service. All of those waiting over a year are based in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon. The HSE figures, released under the Freedom of Information Act, reveal there…

May 13, 2020

15 additional Covid-19 cases confirmed in Mayo, and 50 in Roscommon

The Chief Medical Officer says there are encouraging signs the country WILL be in a position to start easing the lockdown next week. Phase one of the government's plan is due to begin on Monday, which includes the resumption of outdoor work and the reopening…

May 12, 2020

24 further deaths due to Covid-19

There have been a further 24 deaths here due to Covid-19, while another 107 cases of the virus have also been confirmed. It means the total death toll in the Republic now stands at 1,488. There are also 23,242 total confirmed cases.

May 12, 2020

Ballina man sentenced to prison for defilement of a child

A 52-year-old Mayo man who groomed a 16-year-old boy before engaging in sexual acts with him has been given a two-and-a-half year prison sentence. Patrick Lynn of Greenhills Estate, Ballina admitted two charges of defilement of a child under the age of 17…

May 12, 2020

Residents & staff test positive for Covid-19 at Roscommon nursing home

A nursing home in Roscommon has confirmed a high number of Covid-19 cases among its residents and staff. 22 residents and 16 staff at the Cloverhill Nursing Home have tested positive for the virus following recent tests. The Cloverhill nursing home is run by…

May 12, 2020

Artist Cecil Maguire has passed away

The death has taken place of well-known artist Cecil Maguire, at the age of 90. A native of Lurgan in Co Armagh, he spent much of his time in the West of Ireland, and painted the Connemara landscape while living in the Roundstone area. Cecil Maguire studied…

May 12, 2020

Average rent in Mayo now €738 per month

Rents nationally fell by just over 2% last month, as Covid-19 takes its toll. That's according to a new report from housing website Daft.ie, which says this is the largest monthly decrease in over 11 years. The report shows that, in the year to December 2019,…

May 12, 2020

Aldi seeks planning permission for store in Ballina

Planning permission is being sought for an Aldi store in Ballina. The German company has applied to Mayo County Council for permission to demolish the former Deanwood Hotel, and construct a single-storey discount foodstore on the site. The plan also provides…

May 12, 2020

Westport man helps to develop a coating effective against Covid-19

A Westport man was instrumental in the development of a coating effective at treating coronavirus on surfaces. A Global testing company confirmed that surface-coating technology developed by Irish company Kastus is effective against coronavirus. The…

May 12, 2020

Vice-President of the Law Society, Castlebar based solicitor explains how business is continuing in the pandemic

The doors of solicitor’s practices may be closed since the start of the pandemic lockdown, but solicitors across the region are continuing to provide services to clients. Senior Vice President of the Law Society, Castlebar based James Cahill, has been telling…

May 12, 2020

Up to 40 jobs to be created by Ballinrobe company in Castlebar

Up to 40 new jobs are set to be created at the former Volex plant on the Breaffy Road, Castlebar, a building in the ownership of Mayo County Council for the past eight years. The Walsh Group, Kimaine Road, Ballinrobe, is to lease two thirds (66%) of the floor…

May 12, 2020

For a second day in a row no new cases of Covid-19 in Mayo confirmed

A further 15 patients with coronavirus in the Republic have died, bringing the the total death toll to 1,467, while there are now over 23,000 confirmed cases of the virus here. However, for the second day in a row there were no new confirmed cases of Covid-19…

May 12, 2020

Ryanair says it plans to restore 40% of normal flight schedules from Wednesday July 1st

Ryanair says it plans to return to 40% of normal flight schedules from Wednesday July 1st, subject to government restrictions being lifted. The airline will operate a daily flight schedule of almost 1,000 flights, restoring 90% of its pre-Covid-19 route…

May 12, 2020

Irish Water is urging people to conserve water during the pandemic

Irish Water is urging people to conserve water, as domestic water usage has increased by an average of 20% in homes across the region since the Covid-19 restrictions came into force. With more people staying at home, households are using an additional 24…

May 12, 2020

Virtual Famine Walk to be live-streamed this Saturday evening

The annual Famine Walk in Louisburg is being postponed due to the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions. Hundreds of people take part every year in the walk, organised by peace and justice organisation Afri. Lead organiser Joe Murray says the organisers had to…

May 12, 2020

Woman sustained head injury in fall on Croagh Patrick

A woman was rescued from Croagh Patrick on Sunday afternoon last. Mayo Mountain Rescue were tasked to assist a female casualty on the mountain shortly before 4pm on Sunday. She had sustained a head injury in a fall. A first response team from Mayo Mountain…

May 12, 2020

Galway councillor condemns blockade of Headford road last night in protest over garda check points

Galway Councillor James Charity has condemned the blockage of a national main road into Galway City yesterday evening in an apparent protest against Garda checkpoints in the area. A video which was sent to Cllr. Charity had been circulated on social media…

May 12, 2020

After ten years the CEO of Mayo County Council announces his retirement

After ten years as the chief executive of Mayo County Council Peter Hynes announced his retirement yesterday evening at the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council. An interim CEO is being appointed until the position is advertised. Peter Duggan, who is…

May 11, 2020

15 further deaths from Covid-19

A further 15 deaths have been confirmed in Ireland due to Covid-19. 139 additional cases have also been recorded. The death toll in the Republic now stands at 1,467 while there are 23,135 total confirmed cases.

May 11, 2020

ASTI calls for clarification on a number of issues around the Leaving Cert plans

There are a number of issues surrounding the plans for this year's Leaving Cert students that need to be clarified by the Department of Education in the coming days. That's according to the Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland, who says they have a…

May 11, 2020

IFA & RSA issue joint road safety message during silage season

With the silage season underway, the Irish Farmers Association and the Road Safety Authority are making a joint appeal to those driving farm machinery and vulnerable road users to share the road safely. Both organisations are urging farming contractors, who…

May 11, 2020

Mayo Councillors extend sympathies on recent deaths

The May monthly meeting of Mayo County Council is underway this afternoon at St Mary's Hall, on the GMIT Mayo campus. The council meeting was moved to the larger facility to allow for social distancing. At the start of the meeting this afternoon, sympathies…

May 11, 2020

Drugs seizures in Mayo over the weekend

Gardai have made a number of seizures in recent days in the Claremorris and Swinford areas. Members of the Claremorris Community Engagement team discovered drugs, with an estimated value of €1,750, in undergrowth at Claremount in the town on Friday.…

May 11, 2020

Marjorie's Banana Cake

Ingredients 45ml/3 tbsp butter, melted 30ml/ 2 tbsp soft brown sugar 4 Large or medium bananas 2.5ml/half tbsp. cinnamon or spice (mixed) Pancake Batter Ingredients 113g/4oz flour 275ml/10fl oz/half pt milk Pinch of salt 1 egg 14g/half oz butter melted…

May 11, 2020

TUI calls for safeguards to protect teachers from canvassing over Leaving Cert grades

The Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI) says there's an urgent need for safeguards to protect teachers from canvassing on behalf of Leaving Cert students. The decision to cancel this year's exams and replace them with predicted grades has been supported by the…

May 11, 2020

Argentine Ambassador will be laid to rest in Foxford on Friday

The funeral will take place in Foxford next Friday of Ambassador Laura Bernal, the Argentine Ambassador to Ireland. Ambassador Bernal passed away in Dublin two weeks ago. She had previously worked in the Argentine Embassies in Colombia, Portugal and Greeace,…

May 11, 2020

Councillor calls for waiver on rates for Mayo businesses and monies to be recouped from central government

The monthly meeting of Mayo County Council is being held in St. Mary’s Hall on the Castlebar campus of GMIT this afternoon. The location has been selected to ensure that the council meeting can go ahead and at the same time adhere to Covid 19 social…

May 11, 2020

Sligo deputy believes the state has "failed spectacularly" nursing homes during the pandemic

History will record that as a state we 'spectacularly failed the nursing home sector' during the pandemic. That’s the view of Sligo Leitrim TD Marc MacSharry The Fianna Fail TD, who was commenting on the high mortality rates in nursing home settings from the…

May 11, 2020

SIPTU concerned over number of new health recruits getting agency rather than hospital contracts

Siptu says between 15-hundred and two thousand health workers who signed up to be "On Call for Ireland" were handed agency contracts with inferior terms and conditions. The trade union says it's been contacted by a number of workers hired under the scheme. It…

May 11, 2020

No new cases of Covid-19 in Mayo yesterday

The HSE says surgeons will now be able to carry out some non-emergency operations that were suspended because of the pandemic. Nationally twelve more people being treated for Covid-19 have died, and 236 more people have tested positive over the past 24 hours.…

May 11, 2020

Three parties meet again this morning on government formation

Government talks will continue between Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party this morning. The negotiating teams from all three parties will hold discussions, but policies on carbon emissions remain a sticking point. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have also…

May 11, 2020

Gardai seize untaxed, uninsured car while patrolling in Ballina over the weekend

Over the weekend gardaí from Ballina Community Engagement Area were patrolling the Belleek area to encourage compliance with HSE Ireland Guidelines when they stopped and spoke with a motorist who had no Insurance, Tax or NCT. The vehicle was seized. The…

May 11, 2020

2020 Claremorris Agricultural Show cancelled due to Covid-19 pandemic

This year's Claremorris Agricultural Show due to be held on August Bank Holiday Sunday has been cancelled due to the current situation regarding COVID-19. The Show which celebrated its centenary in 2018 is regarded as one of the leading events of its type in…

May 10, 2020

12 more deaths from Covid-19 and 236 new cases of the virus

A further 12 Covid-19 deaths in Ireland have been confirmed by health officials. This brings the death toll from the virus here to 1,458. A further 236 cases have also been confirmed, bringing the total number of cases here to 22,996. In Mayo the total number…

May 10, 2020

Increase in motorists speeding across the region during the pandemic

With fewer cars on the roads due to the Covid-19 lockdown, more drivers are speeding. That's according to Mayo County Council's Road Safety Office, which says an increase in speeding, coupled with more cyclists and pedestrians on roads, is a recipe for…

May 10, 2020

Sligo-Leitrim Independent TD willing to engage with Green solutions for the agriculture sector

Sligo-Leitrim Independent TD Marian Harkin says she is willing to engage with a grand coalition to help provide solutions for the future of agriculture across the region. It comes as Green Party TD Ossain Smyth told The Sunday Times that Harkin,…

May 10, 2020

HSE says it's still on target to deliver 100,000 tests per week

The HSE says it's still on target to deliver 100,000 tests per week from May 18th. It says the average wait time for a result is now 2.4 days and that plans are being put in place to ramp up testing and contact tracing. All staff and residents in the…

May 10, 2020

Irish Hairdressers Federation calls for the industry to reopen within seven weeks

The Irish Hairdressers Federation says the Government's return to work protocols for businesses are a move in the right direction. It includes plans for hand-washing etiquette and handshake bans. Hairdressers are due to open their doors again on the 20th of…

May 10, 2020

SIPTU calls for temperature checks on workers in meat processing and dairy plants

Trade Union Siptu says meat processors and dairy plants should take workers' temperatures at the factory gate. The government's return-to-work protocols published yesterday already includes testing workers to see if they're feverish -- but Siptu says these…

May 10, 2020

People in direct provision have been 'failed and endangered' by the state's response to Covid-19 according to PBP TD

People Before Profit TD Bríd Smith says people in direct provision have been "abjectly failed and endangered" because of the state's response to Covid-19. Residents at an accomodation centre in Kerry were told more people had been infected there because…

May 10, 2020

ISME says Covid-19 supports for businesses are 'pretty inadequate'

The Irish Small and Medium Enterprise Association says supports for businesses during Covid-19 are 'pretty inadequate'. The business group says they need a properly-funded liquidity plan to reopen after being shut during the pandemic. It's welcoming the…

May 10, 2020

18 more deaths from Covid-19 along with 219 new cases of the virus

Another 18 people with Covid-19 died yesterday, along with the diagnosis of 219 confirmed cases of the virus. It means the total death toll now stands at close to 1,500. There are now almost 28,000 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the Republic of Ireland. Mayo…

May 10, 2020

ASTI calls for concerns about the new Leaving Cert proposals to be addressed

The ASTI is joining the TUI in engaging with the calculated grades system for students, which will replace this year's Leaving Cert. It's after lengthy talks of the Association of Secondary Teachers of Ireland late last night. The ASTI says it wants students…

May 09, 2020

Sligo-Leitrim Fianna Fail TD dismisses suggestions that Leo Varadkar should get the first stint as rotating Taoiseach

Sligo-Leitrim Fianna Fail TD Marc MacSharry has rejected suggestions by Fine Gael politicians that Leo Varadkar should get the first stint as Taoiseach in a coalition deal involving the two parties. Fine Gael TDs and senators, including ministers, are pushing…

May 09, 2020

HSA authorised to close businesses not complying with health guidelines

Business that don't implement guidelines on re-opening could face closure by the HSA. Logs of workers in offices will need to be kept to help contact tracing, while each workplace will need a plan if a case of Covid-19 is detected. No handshaking is to be…

May 09, 2020

Intensive Care Society President says any lifting of restrictions carries risk

There's been a further fall in the number of people being admitted to intensive care with Covid-19. 72 patients are being treated in ICUs today - down from 99 this day last week. The death toll in the Republic now stands at 1,429. Professor Catherine…

May 09, 2020

Mayo teacher says Leaving Cert students who sit written exams will be 'unfairly locked out' of third level education for a year

A Mayo Secondary School teacher has expressed concerns that students who sit the Leaving Cert written exams this year will be locked out of third level education for a year. The exams have been cancelled and replaced with calculated grades, which will be…

May 09, 2020

Teaching organisations seek clarity on calculated grades concerns

The Teachers Union of Ireland has decided to engage with the system of calculated grades, which will replace this year's Leaving Cert. The written exams have been cancelled this summer and students will get a calculated grade instead, estimated by their…

May 09, 2020

Death has taken place of Milltown PP Canon JJ Cribben, former Mayo footballer

The death has taken place of Canon JJ Cribben - parish priest of Milltown, Co Galway and a former Mayo footballer. Fr JJ - a native of Ballyhaunis - passed away yesterday after battling illness for some time, and will be laid to rest tomorrow - 50 years to…

May 09, 2020

HSE to issue guidance for meat processing plants to stop the spread of Covid-19

The HSE is to issue guidance to meat processing plants to prevent the further spread of coronavirus. There are now 10 clusters in factories across the country - accounting for 566 cases. The death toll from Covid-19 in the Republic now stands at 1,429, after…

May 09, 2020

Mayo Gardaí appeal for witnesses to collision between car and pedestrian

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following an incident that occurred at approximately 12:20pm on Thursday 30th April at Market Square, Castlebar, County Mayo. A female pedestrian was injured following a road traffic collision with a car. The woman, in her…

May 09, 2020

27 more deaths from Covid-19 with 156 new cases

Two thirds of people who have died with Covid-19 have been aged 80 years or older. The death toll from the virus stands at 1,429, after a further 27 people died. Of the total deaths, 956 occurred in the 80 plus age category. Overall, the number of confirmed…

May 08, 2020

Travel Agents to be given the option of providing a credit note to customers in lieu of refunds

Travel Agents are to be given the option of providing a credit note to customers in lieu of refunds. The measure will be underwritten by the state and will not be applicable to airlines. The move was agreed at cabinet today and is in addition to exiting…

May 08, 2020

Monthly meeting of MCC to take place at GMIT on Monday next to adhere to social distancing requirements

Mayo County Council will hold the May monthly meeting of the authority at a larger venue to meet Covid 19 social distancing requirements. It will take place at Mayo GMIT Campus, Castlebar, on Monday next at 2pm. The larger space will allow more elected…

May 08, 2020

Minister Ring launches €40 million package of supports for Voluntary Organisations and Social Enterprises

Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring has today announced the launch of a €40 million package of supports for Community and Voluntary Organisations, Charities and Social Enterprises. The €40 million funding package is being made available…

May 08, 2020

Oral exam marks to be predicted rather than previously announced full marks for 2020 Leaving Cert

The Leaving Cert written exams this summer have been cancelled. Students will instead get a predicted grade or have the option to sit the tests at a later date. Teachers will provide a score for each subject and it'll have to be approved by the school…

May 08, 2020

Leaving Cert exam this Summer is cancelled

The Leaving Cert written exams this summer have been cancelled. Students will have the option to sit them at a later date or accept a predicted grade. Teachers will provide a score for each subject and it'll have to be approved by the school principal. The…

May 08, 2020

HSE suggest numbers of Mayo people who attended Cheltenham may reflect high number of Covid-19 incidents in the county

The number of Mayo people who travelled to Cheltenham in March, compared to Galway residents, may be one of the reasons that so many people in Mayo have tested positive for Covid-19, compared to people in Galway. That was a view expressed by HSE West…

May 08, 2020

2020 National Ploughing Championships cancelled

This year's National Ploughing Championship has been cancelled. Europe's biggest outdoor event was due to take place in County Carlow from September 15th to 17th but it has been called off due to Covid-19. Organisers say that they still hope that there will…

May 08, 2020

Gardaí are investigating criminal damage to a mini digger and irrigation pump at Claremorris Golf Club

The council of Claremorris Golf Club are appealing for public assistance following an incident of vandalism on course equipment earlier this month. A mini digger and the course's irrigation system were damaged in the incident. Entry was gained to the pump…

May 08, 2020

Man arrested following a €26,000 drugs seizure in Athenry on Wednesday

Gardaí have arrested a man in connection with the seizure of more than €26,000 worth of suspected cannabis plants in Athenry Co Galway on Wednesday. Gardaí from the Divisional Drugs Unit in Galway conducted a search of a house in Athenry under warrant at…

May 08, 2020

Cabinet set to approve an alternative plan for the Leaving Cert this morning

Cabinet ministers are set to approve an alternative plan for the Leaving Cert exams this morning. It's understood the examinations will be cancelled and replaced with a system of predictive grades. The government had been trying to go ahead with the Leaving…

May 08, 2020

Castlebar Councillor tables motion calling for the installation of automated gates at Kilnageere level crossing

A Castlebar councillor is refusing to accept Irish Rail’s stance that it has no plans to automate the notorious Kilnageere railway crossing, located a few kilometres outside the county town. Fine Gael councillor Cyril Burke says the community that use this…

May 08, 2020

Businesses on the west coast have been hardest hit during the pandemic according to Chambers Ireland study

A business group is calling for the next programme for government to include funding for local authorities to help kickstart economies in towns and villages across the country. Businesses on the west coast have been hit the hardest due to the Covid-19…

May 08, 2020

Mayo and Galway farmers among the biggest beneficiaries of social welfare payments last year

Farmers received up to 123 million euro in social-welfare payments last year. Over 9,100 people were paid the money under the Farm Assist or Rural Social Schemes. Farm Assist is a means-tested payment for low-income farmers, paid by the Department of Social…

May 08, 2020

29 more deaths from Covid-19 along with 137 new cases

29 more people with Covid 19 died in the Republic of Ireland yesterday. The death toll here now stands at 1,403. 137 new cases were also detected, with the total now standing at 22,385. The totals across the regions sees Mayo with 514 confirmed cases of the…

May 07, 2020

Water outage from 6pm this evening in Ballina town

Irish Water and Mayo County Council are advising customers in Ballina - in Pearse Street, Humbert Street, Dillon Terrace, Castle Road, Nally Street, the areas surrounding Beleek, Bachelors Walk, Arbuckle Row and Emmett Street that their water supply will been…

May 07, 2020

Big welcome for Castlebar man discharged today from MUH having overcome Covid-19

The neighbours, family and friends of a Castlebar man in his eighties came out this afternoon to welcome him home after successfully battling Covid-19. Billy Waldron of Greenfield, Pontoon Road, was discharged this afternoon from Mayo University Hospital…

May 07, 2020

Negotiations on a programme for government formally get underway this evening

Negotiations on a programme for government will formally get underway this evening. The Green Party is meeting Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil to start putting together a document to form a coalition government. Over the last number of weeks Fianna Fail and Fine…

May 07, 2020

No decision yet on National Ploughing Championships

The organisers of the National Ploughing Championships are meeting this week to discuss whether this year's event can go ahead. The event's scheduled for mid-September, but is in doubt because of the coronavirus crisis. Almost 300,000 people attended last…

May 07, 2020

Outdoor Masses and drive-by confessions could be on the cards

Drive-by confessions and outdoor masses could be on the cards as the Catholic Church charts its way out of Covid-19 lockdown. These are in addition to bringing services to hundreds of thousands of people who are accessing prayer and Masses online since the…

May 07, 2020

Mayo TD says healthcare staff should be routinely tested for Covid-19

Mayo TD Alan Dillon is calling for all healthcare workers in acute hospitals to be routinely tested for Covid-19. The Fine Gael TD says the present current national guidelines do not require healthcare workers in acute hospitals to be tested, unless they…

May 07, 2020

Questions raised over hospital treatment of Ballyhaunis teenager, who died two weeks ago

The parents of a Leaving Cert student in Ballyhaunis have raised questions over the circumstances surrounding her death two weeks ago at Mayo University Hospital. 17-year old Sally Maaz, a member of the Syrian community in Ballyhaunis who was born with a…

May 07, 2020

NUI Galway reverses 4% rent increase for on-campus student accommodation

NUI Galway has reversed its controversial decision to raise the rent of on campus student accommodation by 4 per cent for the coming academic year. The U-turn comes about following several months of protests and actions by students and the NUIG Students…

May 07, 2020

Former Galway All-Ireland winner Kieran O'Sullivan has passed away

Former Galway All-Ireland winner and a stalwart member of Oughterard GAA club, Kieran O'Sullivan passed away earlier this week after an illness. The late Kieran was a member of the Galway minor football team which won the All-Ireland championship title in…

May 07, 2020

Work to resume after 18th May on new N5 Westport-Turlough road

Work is due to resume after the 18th May on the N5 road from Westport to Turlough - the largest Government investment project ever in Co Mayo. That's according to Castlebar-based FG Councillor Cyril Burke. Councillor Burke says work on the major construction…

May 07, 2020

Junior Tourism Minister supports 0% VAT rate for tourism industry

The Junior Minister for Tourism says he supports a 0% Vat rate for the hospitality sector to help them through Covid-19. Brendan Griffin told the Dáil yesterday that "a speedy recovery for the tourist industry is unlikely". He said that, in the space of a few…

May 07, 2020

31 additional Covid-19 cases confirmed in Co Roscommon

The State's chief medical officer says the country isn't yet in a position to ease some Covid-19 restrictions on 18th May. 1,375 people with the virus have died after a further 37 fatalities were confirmed last night, while there are now 22,248 diagnosed…

May 06, 2020

Man wanted on fraud charges arrested after he was stopped at checkpoint in Swinford

Gardaí in Mayo have arrested a man, who was sought in connection with multiple theft offences across the country, who they stopped at a checkpoint at Newpark in Swinford on Saturday May 2. At 5.15pm Saturday evening two members of the Mayo Roads Policing Unit…

May 06, 2020

14,000 euro worth of cannabis siezed in garda search of Ballyhaunis property

Gardaí recovered drugs with an estimated street value of €14,000 during a search of a property in the Ballyhaunis area, last weekend. Members of the Divisional Drugs Taskforce carried out a search at a private home and surrounding sheds and farm lands in the…

May 06, 2020

Red forest fire warning in place across the country

A red forest fire warning is currently in place across Ireland. The Department of Agriculture says under extreme fire risk conditions, fires will start and spread easily with real threats to nature, property and life. The alert will remain in place until…

May 06, 2020

Warning that pharmacies may be forced to close or reduce hours if government fails to intervene during the pandemic

20 percent of pharmacies have had to lay off staff in the past five weeks and a further 40 percent say they will be forced to lay off more staff shortly, if the government fails to deliver on the promise it made three weeks ago to pharmacists. These figures…

May 06, 2020

Achill publican says proposals to reopen pubs in June are not feasible

An Achill publican does not believe it will be feasible for many pubs in rural Ireland to reopen in June, under proposals being put forward by representatives of the pub trade. The Vintners Federation of Ireland and the Licensed Vintners Association are…

May 06, 2020

31 patients with confirmed Covid-19 now being treated at Mayo University Hospital

Hospitals have reported a further reduction in the number of patients admitted with confirmed and suspected cases of Covid-19. There are now a total of 902 patients in hospitals with either confirmed or suspected coronavirus. The hospitals with the most…

May 06, 2020

Grandson of Mayo emigrants sworn in as new US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland

The grandson of Mayo emigrants has been sworn into office as the new US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland. Mick Mulvaney, the former acting Chief of Staff at the White House, was sworn-in in a virtual ceremony on Friday, via FaceTime. The US President Donald…

May 06, 2020

Decision will be made early next month on whether Reek Sunday pilgrimage will go ahead

It will be the first week in June before any decision can be taken as to whether or not the annual Reek Sunday pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick will go ahead on the last Sunday in July this year. That’s according to local administrator in Westport, Fr Charlie…

May 06, 2020

Chief Medical Officer says country will be reopened in a cautious manner

The Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health says the country will be re-opened in a cautious and conservative manner, to try prevent further Covid-19 restrictions later this year. 1,339 people with the virus have died, after a further 23 fatalities…

May 06, 2020

Historic house in Belcarra destroyed by fire

Fire crews have spent much of the night battling a blaze in Belcarra, outside Castlebar. The fire broke out yesterday evening at Bridgemount House - a historic two-storey property that was once the home of the late Dame Judy Coyne. She and her husband founded…

May 05, 2020

Final report published into accident at Sligo Airport

The Air Accident Investigation Unit has published its final report into an accident at Sligo Airport almost two years ago. On 5th August 2018, the Piper fixed wing aircraft with the pilot and one passenger on board landed at Sligo Airport after flying from…

May 05, 2020

Govt denies rift with public health officials over Covid-19 restrictions

The Government is denying any divisions with the National Public Health Emergency Team over coronavirus restrictions. A phased roadmap has been devised to slowly ease us out of lockdown, with some media reports over the weekend saying the Government and the…

May 05, 2020

File to DPP after two men refused Garda request to return home

Gardai have used the Covid 19 enforcement powers 139 times since they were introduced. There was also 52 incidents of spitting or coughing at officers, while anti-spit guards had to be used 28 times over a 4 week period. Meanwhile, there were 1,172 incidents…

May 05, 2020

WATCH: A woodland walk in Mayo - Paul Kirwan

Paul Kirwan, a horticulturalist and nature enthusiast based in Mayo recently filmed his 2k woodland walk. Paul says: "I try to encourage people to slow down, breath and take notice of their surroundings in ways that they have never had the opportunity to do…

May 05, 2020

Young Ballinrobe boy raises over €3,500 for Western Care with 10k cycle

A five year old Ballinrobe boy has raised over €3,500 for Western Care Daniel Flannery undertook a 10km cycle for the charity his grandmother volunteered with for over four decades on Sunday morning. Almost a year after getting the stabilisers removed from…

May 05, 2020

Wedding singer delights nursing home residents in Mayo with her performances during the pandemic

A wedding and funeral professional singer based in Castlebar, who’s regular work is hugely impacted by the present Covid-19 restrictions, has decided to voluntarily bring her talents to locked-down residents of nursing homes across the county. Brenda Grealis…

May 05, 2020

Pubs hope new proposals could see them reopening by the end of June

Pubs may be allowed to open earlier than planned if they can stick to strict social-distancing rules. Public houses are not due to reopen until August 10th, but this may be brought forward to the end of June. Two representative groups - the Licensed Vintners…

May 05, 2020

Man due in court following Ballinasloe drugs seizure

A man is due in court later this week charged in connection with the discovery of €9,000 worth of cocaine at a Garda checkpoint in Co Galway over the weekend. As part of Operation Fanacht, to ensure people are abiding by the Covid-19 restrictions, Gardai…

May 05, 2020

Cllr calls on MCC to look at streetscapes and traffic flow to ensure business ready to go when Covid-19 restrictions lifted

Mayo County Council needs to urgently make adjustments to paving’s, streetscapes, traffic flow, public areas and car parking, to facilitate social distancing and pedestrian movement to best position businesses in Mayo to open swiftly once restrictions are…

May 05, 2020

33 patients at MUH with confirmed/suspected Covid-19 at present

The National Public Health Emergency Team will meet this morning to review the latest situation with Covid-19. New figures show that the number of people admitted to hospital with confirmed, or suspected Covid-19, has increased slightly to 927. The hospitals…

May 05, 2020

More than 500 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Mayo

From today people are allowed to travel up to 5 kilometres from home to exercise. While those who are cocooning are advised that they can go for a short walk if they avoid all contact with others. Ireland will then begin to reopen on May 18 and will continue…

May 05, 2020

Man charged for hijacking car and driver in Galway city on Sunday morning

Gardaí in Galway arrested and charged a man following the taking of a vehicle that occurred in the Beal Srutha area of the city on Sunday morning last at approximately 11:30am. The driver of the vehicle reported that while sitting in his car, after shopping,…

May 05, 2020

Mayo retailers encouraged to apply for Covid-19 Online Retail Scheme

Retail businesses in Mayo are being encouraged to apply for newly available funding to support them to enhance their digital capability. Mayo Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon says Minister Humphreys has announced that applications are now open for the new Enterprise…

May 05, 2020

Only urgent matters to be dealt with today as Castlebar Circuit Court sits today

Due to Covid19 restrictions on social distancing, only urgent matters will be dealt with at the two-week sitting of the Circuit Criminal Court which begins in Castlebar today (Tuesday, May 5) and continues until Friday, May 15. This means that no trials will…

May 03, 2020

19 more Covid-19 related deaths

19 more covid-19 patients have died and 330 new cases have been confirmed this evening. There have now been a total of 1,303 Covid-19 related deaths here. There have also been 330 additional new cases of the coronavirus diagnosed, bringing the number of…

Four more cases of the Coronavirus confirmed in Ireland

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