Details

The Government yesterday funding of €160m in additional supports for businesses affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

It includes €10m extra for Live Science companies that are developing and making PPE & equipment used in the fight against Covid-19

There is 90 million under the Sustaining Enterprise Fund to assist Enterprise Ireland funded schemes, and 60 million euro for the Covid 19 Business Aid Scheme.

The new Business Aid scheme is aimed at those businesses not eligible for CRSS (Covid Restrictions Support Scheme), but that are either closed or have seen a 75% reduction in turnover as a result of the pandemic.

Mayo Fianna Fail deputy Dara Calleary says that, under this scheme, eligible businesses will receive up to €8,000 in two installments and the scheme will be administered in Mayo by Mayo County Council.

An online application process will be set-up and will be available on the Local Authority’s website.

The grant will be of substantial assistance to smaller businesses with some of their fixed costs like rent, utilities and security. 

Wholesalers, suppliers, caterers, office-based businesses & events companies down 75% or more in turnover will qualify for this funding.

Deputy Calleary has been giving Midwest News Editor Teresa O’Malley more details about the schemes announced yesterday....

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    Roscommon Roads Policing Unit stopped a car for doing 142 kph in a 100 kph limit zone yesterday evening. The vehicle was also detained for no insurance. Gardai say a court date is to follow.
  • Feb 25, 2021

    Family of Ballyhaunis man win appeal over mother's grave in UK

    The family of a Ballyhaunis man in the UK has won an appeal in the country's highest ecclesiastical court to have an inscription in Irish on their mother's grave in Ash Greeen, Coventry. A decision by a judge in a lower court had ruled Margaret Keane's…
  • Feb 25, 2021

    58 new cases of Covid-19 across Galway & Mayo

    The number of patients with Covid-19 in public hospitals has fallen below 600 for the first time since January 1st. However, latest HSE figures show 10 people in ICU died after contracting the virus - the largest number in a 24-hour period since the start of…
  • Feb 25, 2021

    €22.5 million secured for 50-bed Residential Care Centre in Tuam

    €22.5 million euro has now been secured for a new 50 bed Residential Care Centre in Tuam and work on the long awaited facility is set to get underway on site by April. The news was confirmed at this week's virtual HSE West Forum meeting by HSE management, in…
  • Feb 25, 2021

    President pays tribute to Mayo-born theologian Fr Enda McDonagh

    President Michael D Higgins has paid tribute to Fr Enda McDonagh, theologian and former professor of moral theology at Maynooth University, who has died at the age of 90. Fr McDonagh was a native of Bekan, near Ballyhaunis and was educated at St Jarlath's…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    56 further deaths from Covid-19 with 574 new cases

    56 additional covid deaths, including a 16 year old, have been confirmed and 574 new cases. 175 cases are in Dublin, 57 in Limerick, 43 in Kildare, 37 in Galway, 35 in Meath and the remaining 227 cases are spread across 18 other counties. Elsewhere, there are…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    Mayo North Tourism says there needs to be a clear path for reopening

    The hospitality & tourism sector has expressed disappointment that last night's Living with Covid announcement from the Taoiseach did not include a clear path to reopening for the hard-hit sector. There are currently around 150,000 people from the hospitality…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    HSE Service plan sees increase of 3.5 billion euro on last year

    The HSE's released details of how it will spend it's more than 20 billion euro budget this year, an increase of 3.5 billion euro on last year. 1.68 billion euro of the additional spending relates to Covid 19. The National Service Plan provides for an addition…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    Mayo Deputy frustrated at delay in addressing shortage of Green Cert places

    A Mayo Deputy has again called for Green Cert courses to be provided for farmers. Erris based Sinn Fein TD Rose Conway-Walsh says there is a real problem with the part-time online courses and there is a lot of people across Mayo impacted. She says Teagasc…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    Ballina principal looks forward to schools reopening next week for junior students

    In five days time, children from junior infants up to and including 2nd class will return to school, as will Leaving Certs in secondary schools across the region. 5th year students in secondary and all other primary school students will return 2 weeks later…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    No joy for family carers on the vaccine front, despite change to priority list

    Health officials are acknowledging there's been some disappointment with the new vaccine prioritisation list. People with 'very high risk' conditions are being moved up the list but those with 'high risk' conditions aren't. There's also no change for family…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    Tanaiste cannot promise this lockdown will be the last

    The Tánaiste says he can't promise that this lockdown will be the last, due to the continued emergence of variants. Leo Varadkar says most people think the cautious approach the Government is taking in the latest Living with Covid plan is the right one. Level…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    Fall in number of Covid-19 patients at Mayo University Hospital

    There are 652 people with Covid-19 being treated in hospitals across the country today - that's down 5% since yesterday, and 21% lower than last Wednesday. 151 of these patients are in ICU. Mayo University Hospital has seen a fall in the number of Covid…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    Dumping blackspot cleaned up in Ballaghadereen

    Roscommon County Council has cleaned up an illegal dumping blackspot in Ballaghadereen. The site, which is at an unfinished housing development on the Charlestown Road, has been a dumping ground for years for all kinds of waste, including household, electric…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    Further extension announced today for expiring drivers licences

    A further extension to the expiry dates of driving licences has been announced today by Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton. The Minister says the move comes as the EU and national Governments take steps in response to the disruption caused by Covid-19 to…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    Water quality in Murrisk described as "dire" at present

    The quality of the water coming out of the taps in the Murrisk area is “dire” at present, according to local councillor Christy Hyland. The Independent councillor says the communities of Murrisk, Lecanvey and Killsallagh are experiencing brown coloured water…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    8 year old county Galway girl who lost her leg is back cycling her bike

    County Galway girl Saoírse Ruane, one of the stars of last year's RTE’s Late Late Toy Show, has learned how to cycle her bike again. The 8 year old from Kiltullagh lost a leg as a result of a tumour. Her story, and her fundraising for charity, inspired the…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    Planning to be sought next month for overbridge at Kilnageer level crossing

    Irish Rail is to hoping to submit a planning application in the next month for an overbridge at the notorious Kilnageer level crossing near Belcarra, Castlebar. That's according to Mayo FG Deputy Alan Dillon, who questioned the CEO of Irish Rail Jim Meade on…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    People with underlying conditions to be moved up vaccine priority list

    People with underlying conditions will be moved up the Covid-19 vaccination priority list. The Government has accepted the advice from the National Immunisation Advisory Committee, which includes moving those aged 16 to 69 who're very high risk, such as some…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    Taoiseach says reopening of country will be led by data, not dates

    The re-opening of the country will be led by data, not dates, according to the Taoiseach. Under the Government's roadmap for reopening the country, Level 5 restrictions have been extended until at least April 5th with a review before Easter. Schools will…
  • Feb 24, 2021

    14-day incidence rates remain above national average in Galway & Mayo

    The Tánaiste insists Covid-19 is 'in retreat' across Ireland and the country is on the right track. 575 new cases were confirmed here yesterday, along with 45 additional deaths. 218 of the cases are in Dublin, while the second highest number- 38 new cases -…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Level 5 lockdown in place till April 5th, but schools to reopen from next week

    The level 5 lockdown remains in place until April 5th, but schools and childcare are to reopen from next week. In his address to the nation this evening, Micheal Martin outlined the timetable for re-opening schools. Leaving Cert students as well as the four…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Galway has second highest number of new Covid-19 cases

    45 additional deaths from Covid-19 have been confirmed this evening, and 575 new cases of the virus. 218 of the cases are in Dublin. The second highest number- 38 new cases - are in Galway. Elsewhere across the West, there are 15 new cases in Mayo, 10 in…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Cabinet agrees timetable for re-opening schools

    The Cabinet has agreed to extend the level 5 lockdown until April 5th, with the Taoiseach set to address the nation at about 6pm. Micheal Martin will also outline the timetable for re-opening schools starting from next week. Leaving Cert students as well as…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Gardai attend two collisions in the Castlebar area

    Emergency services are at the scene of a single-vehicle collision on the N60 between Balla and Manulla. A stop / go system is in place for traffic along this busy stretch of road, and motorists should approach with caution. Gardai are also on their way to the…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Taoiseach to address the country this evening on revised Living With Covid-19 plan

    The Cabinet is meeting at present to sign off on the Government's revised Living with Covid-19 plan, and Taoiseach Micheál Martin will address the country later this evening - that's expected about 6pm. The phased reopening of schools and childcare will be…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Mayo hotelier calls for clear roadmap on re-opening hospitality industry

    Hotels and guesthouses in the West of Ireland are reporting average booking levels of just 20% for July and 18% for August, according to the Irish Hotels Federation. The record low levels of pre-booking for what are usually the busy Summer months come amid…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Breaffy House Resort Vaccination Centre due to be operational from Mid March

    The mass vaccination Centre at Breaffy House Resort in Castlebar will be fully kitted out and appropriately converted by the end of the first week of March and it’s hoped it will be operational and available to the public for vaccination by the middle of…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Almost all frontline hospital staff in the Saolta group have been vaccinated against Covid 19

    Almost all frontline Health Care workers in the Saolta Hospital group have now been vaccinated against Covid 19, and the remaining staff, just over 1000 people, will be vaccinated by the end of this month. The group has responsibility for hospitals across the…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Rise in Covid-19 patients at Mayo University Hospital

    690 people with Covid-19 are receiving treatment in Irish hospitals today - the first time the figure has fallen below 700 since early January. It's a 4 percent decrease on yesterday's total, while it's 19 percent down on last Tuesday. In the past 24 hours…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Two men will appear before court later charged with a robbery in Sligo

    Two men have been charged in relation to a robbery in Sligo on Sunday. It occurred at a business premises on the Bundoran Road. They entered a shop brandishing a knife at approximately 10pm at night, as staff were closing the premises. The suspects fled the…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Fire outbreak at County Galway GP practice days before vaccine administration

    Fire crews from Roscommon and Mountbellew attended the scene of a fire at the HSE Health Centre Complex in Ballygar this morning. A passerby raised the alarm at 7:15am, after noticing smoke coming from the building. The front of the building was completely…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Burrishoole Research Day Marine Institute's Newport virtual symposium takes place this Thursday

    On this Thursday (Feb 25th) The Marine Institute will host the Burrishoole Research Day, a virtual symposium showcasing the wide network of researchers connected to its Research Facility in Newport, county Mayo. The symposium will include short talks from 26…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Latest Consultant's Report on Speed Limits through Breaffy, Castlebar published

    A report by consultants, appointed by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), to review the controversial speed limits through the village of Breaffy outside Castlebar has been completed and is due to go before elected councillors at tomorrow’s (Wed) monthly…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Transatlantic fibre optic cable on course to make land at Old Head

    A transatlantic fibre optic cable is on course to make land at Old Head in Mayo this Autumn. The America Europe Connect 2 subsea fibre optic cable is currently at the foreshore licensing application stage. At yesterday’s monthly meeting of Westport-Belmullet…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Traffic down to one lane along the N5 at Westport

    The N5 is down to one lane on the approach into Westport from the Castlebar direction after a trailer detached from a vehicle. Midwest News understands that a wood chipper detached from the vehicle and crashed into a ditch, leaving some debris on the side of…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Emergency services attended a collision in Miltown this morning

    Emergency services attended the scene of a two vehicle incident which took place this morning close to the Milltown Business Park. A section of the N17 was closed outside the village of Miltown following the collision. One person was treated at the scene for…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Strong interest in public consultation on Galway to Athlone Greenway

    At a recent public meeting online to discuss the route options being considered for the next phase of the Galway to Athlone Greenway, hosted by Minister Anne Rabbitte, the capacity limit of 100 was reached. Representatives from Galway County Council, RPS…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Extensive surface water on roads across the region this morning

    It is a very wet start in most areas across the region this morning, with windy conditions for road users to contend with too. A Status Yellow Rainfall Warning remains in place for Connaught counties until 9pm tonight. Gardai across the region are warning of…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Some Three customers in Erris set to be without service until March

    Some Three customers in the Erris area of North Mayo will remain without a phone service until next month at the earliest. The service went down the weekend before last in stormy conditions. A spokesperson for Three told Midwest News last Tuesday, that a mast…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Cabinet set to extend Level 5 restrictions until April 5th

    Level 5 restrictions will be extended until April 5th this afternoon with home building remaining shut for another month. While more than 300,000 students will return to the classroom next Monday. Last night the cabinet sub-committee on COVID agreed to extend…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Community groups in Roscommon and Galway allocated funding for peatlands-related projects

    A number of community groups in Roscommon and Galway have been allocated funding for peatlands-related projects. The grants are allocated under the Peatlands Community Engagement Scheme, and will support projects in local peatland areas such as boardwalks,…
  • Feb 23, 2021

    Two weather warnings in effect across the region

    Two weather warnings are in effect across the region. A status yellow rainfall warning for Connacht will last until 9pm tonight, with Met Eireann warning that heavy rain will lead to some river flooding and localised surface flooding. A status yellow wind…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    686 new cases of Covid-19, with one additional death from the virus

    One additional death has been confirmed this evening from Covid-19, with 686 new cases. 21 of the new cases are in Co Galway, with 19 in Mayo, 8 in Sligo, 7 in Roscommon and less than 5 in Co Leitrim. Galway has recorded 848 new cases over the past fortnight,…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Some Three customers in Erris remain without a phone service

    Some Three customers in the Erris area of North Mayo remain without a phone service for ten days now. The service went down the weekend before last in stormy conditions. A spokesperson for Three told Midwest News last Tuesday, that a mast had been damaged in…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Moy Valley Resources has to meet its bills too and cannot pause commercial rent unless government intervenes

    Moy Valley IRD has bills to pay itself and cannot simply wipe away the rent owed by its business tenants at the Quay in Ballina, according to the CEO of Moy Valley Resources, Annette Maughan. Moy Valley Resources IRD is the landlord for the Quay Units and…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Galway Lotto players urged to check tickets, as €46,234 prize unclaimed

    The National Lottery is urging Galway Lotto players to check their tickets, as a prize worth over €46,000 from last December remains unclaimed. There were two winners of the Lotto Match 5 + Bonus prize on Saturday 12th December. One of the tickets was bought…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Covid vaccine numbers ramping up this week

    The head of the HSE says a ray of hope is emerging as Covid 19 vaccines ramp up. Over 100,000 people are expected to receive a jab this week. So far, Ireland has been vaccinating around 40,000 people a week but that's to increase in the coming days. Almost…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    321,000 euro worth of drugs seized by gardai in north Mayo over recent weeks

    321,000 euro worth of drugs have been seized by gardai in north Mayo since the start of this year, together with over 12,000 euro in cash. That’s according to the Garda Chief Superintendent in the county Tony Healy. Speaking to Midwest News today the Chief…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Islandeady man re-sentenced for killing his mother ten years ago

    A Mayo prisoner, described as someone who poses a "serious risk" to the public, has been resentenced for killing his mother ten years ago. In 2014, Celyn Eadon, was handed a life sentence for murdering Noreen Kelly at their home at Islandeady in Castlebar,…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    ACP concerned about calls by archbishops for an Easter return to community worship

    The group that represents Catholic Priests, the Association of Catholic Priests (ACP), is concerned about calls for an Easter return to community worship. That’s according to Association member Fr Brendan Hoban. Fr Hoban says the ACP commends the archbishops…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Lockdown closes business but rent bill continues, according to Ballina business man

    Business tenants of the Quay Units in Ballina, located along the River Moy, continue to pay rent despite being closed down for business due to the Covid 19 Restrictions. Paul Ginty, of Quay Fitness, is one such tenant. He is eleven years in business and he…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    ISSA honour three community garden groups across Connacht

    Three community garden groups across Connacht have been selected for a prestigious gardening programme. Ballina Karen Community Garden, Mayo, Trellick Community Garden, Galway and Rossinver Community Garden, Leitrim were granted a place on the Community Seed…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Two arrested following robbery in Sligo

    Two men were arrested in connection with a robbery in Sligo last night. They entered a shop on the Bundoran Road brandishing a knife at approximately 10pm last night, as staff were closing the premises. The suspects fled the scene, but were subsequently…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Cabinet sub-committee on Covid-19 meets later

    The Cabinet sub-committee on Covid-19 will meet today to discuss the phased reopening of the country. Schools are expected to return on a phased basis from March 1st, while Level 5 restrictions are expected to be extended beyond March 5th. The Government will…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Fire in Mayo graveyard brought under control by local crews

    Fire crews attended the scene of a blaze which broke out at the Old Cemetery in Castlebar yesterday evening. The Castlebar Fire-fighting unit was called to the scene and brought the fire under control. When the unit arrived, firemen discovered that a tree had…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Public health expert says mandatory hotel quarantine is needed sharpish

    A public health expert says mandatory hotel quarantine needs to be brought in sharpish, after the Brazilian strain was detected here. Three cases of the new covid 19 variant have been identified, all linked with recent travel from Brazil. It comes as 679 new…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Two weather warnings come into effect across the region tonight

    Stormy weather conditions are once again forecast across the region this evening. A Status Yellow Wind warning comes into effect across Mayo, Galway, Sligo and ten other counties at 9 o’clock tonight and lasts until 6 o’clock tomorrow morning. Met Eireann…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Tributes paid following the death of master accordion player from Galway

    Tributes have been paid following the death of one of Galway’s most revered traditional musicians Joe Burke. A native of Kilnadeema in East Galway, the 81-year-old was an incredible accordion player. He performed and recorded music for over five decades and…
  • Feb 22, 2021

    Motorist seen drumming on steering wheel arrested on suspicion of drug driving

    A motorist was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs in Sligo yesterday. The driver was observed drumming with drumsticks on the steering wheel whilst driving in the Strandhill Road area, bringing him to the attention of Gardaí. The…
  • Feb 21, 2021

    Stormy weather conditions forecast to set in from tomorrow

    Stormy weather conditions are once again forecast across the region this week. A Status Yellow Wind warning comes into effect across Mayo, Galway, Sligo and ten other counties at 9 o’clock tomorrow night and lasts until 6 o’clock the following morning. Met…
  • Feb 21, 2021

    Roscommon national school approved for funding to expand facilities

    A school in Roscommon has been approved for funding under the Additional Accommodation Scheme 2021. Carrick National School, Ballinlough will see their facilities expanded upon with classroom en-suite toilets, wheelchair accessibility, special educational…
  • Feb 21, 2021

    Pedestrian crossing being considered for dangerous road in Ballina

    A pedestrian crossing is being considered for a dangerous road crossing near the Quay National School in Ballina. That’s according to local councillor John O’Hara, who raised the issue at a recent Municipal District meeting. Parents of children attending the…
  • Feb 21, 2021

    Call for Gardaí to combat excessive speed on local roads near Foxford

    A Mayo community is 'petrified' by excessive speeding on road crossings between the N26 and N58. That's according to Foxford-based Councillor Neil Cruise, who has called for members of An Garda Siochana to patrol the network of local roads around the…
  • Feb 21, 2021

    Call for clarity on the reopening of schools

    Labour TD Aodhan O'Riordain says clarity's needed on the reopening of schools. He says teachers and SNAs need to know they'll be working in a safe environment. The Government will finalise the plans for the phased reopening of schools at next Tuesday's…
  • Feb 21, 2021

    Gardaí are investigating criminal damage to a building in Castlebar

    Gardaí are investigating an incident of criminal damage that occurred overnight in Moneen, Castlebar. A section of the Primary Care Centre's front wall was covered in graffiti. No arrests have been made in relation to this matter. Gardaí say the investigation…
  • Feb 21, 2021

    RAI says half of restaurants will close without summer reopening

    Half the restaurant owners in the country are likely to cut their losses and shut up shop for good if they can't reopen this summer. That's according to the sector's main trade group, which says the government should commit to letting them open when a enough…
  • Feb 21, 2021

    100,000 doses of vaccine to be given out next week

    Thousands of people between the ages of 18 and 64 could be moved up the country's vaccination priority list, under a new plan being worked on by government. A memo will be brought to Cabinet on Tuesday by the Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, after he…
  • Feb 21, 2021

    Pubs are set to see a change to their opening hours

    Pubs are to see Sunday opening hours extended and nightclubs allowed stay open past 2:30am as part of the reform of licensing laws. The changes are part of the justice reform plan due to be announced by Minister for Justice Helen McEntee tomorrow. It will…
  • Feb 21, 2021

    Mother & Baby Homes Commission report submitted to Garda unit specialising in child abuse

    The Mother and Baby Homes Commission report has been submitted to a Garda unit specialising in child abuse. The Sunday Independent reports the Garda National Protective Services Bureau will examine the report for possible criminality. That includes…
  • Feb 20, 2021

    Search stood down for missing man in Roscommon following discovery of a body

    A body has been found today during the search for a missing man in County Roscommon. The search for 54 year-old Sean Spellman has been stood down.
  • Feb 20, 2021

    Two people charged over cannabis seizure in Mayo

    A man and woman have been charged after a drugs seizure in County Mayo. It's after 80 thousand euro worth of cannabis was found in Ballina yesterday. Both who were arrested will appear before Ballina District Court on the 9th of March.
  • Feb 20, 2021

    Close to a thousand new cases of Covid-19

    26 more people have died from Covid-19 with 988 new cases of the virus confirmed. 378 in Dublin, 68 in Galway, 61 in Kildare, 47 in Limerick, 45 in Louth and the remaining 389 cases are spread across all other counties. In this region there are 34 new cases…
  • Feb 20, 2021

    Woman rescued from water in Galway Bay after getting into difficulty

    Galway RNLI Lifeboat rescued a swimmer who got into difficulty off Blackrock beach in Salthill this afternoon. The alarm was raised at 12.25 pm by a pedestrian who saw the woman struggling in the water between Blackrock and Ladies Beach. The Irish Coast Guard…
  • Feb 20, 2021

    New laws allowing hotel quarantine set to be passed next week

    The Health Minister says it's hoped new laws allowing quarantine hotels to be set up will be passed next week. There have been calls for stricter travel rules after the detection of the Brazilian variant of Covid-19 here. Three cases, all in a single cluster,…
  • Feb 20, 2021

    Taoiseach considers request from church to allow public worship resume

    The Taoiseach says he'll consider a request from leaders of the Catholic Church to allow public worship resume during Lent. The issue was raised at a meeting yesterday, with the church emphasising the particular importance of a return during Holy Week and…
  • Feb 20, 2021

    Call for full reopening of building sites and end to restrictions on house viewing

    A Roscommon TD has called on the Government to fully re-open Irish building sites and to end restrictions on people having to view houses via video links. Commenting on the Governments Land Development Agency Bill (LDA), Independent Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice…
  • Feb 20, 2021

    Mayo Deputy supports development of Ballina as a freight hub

    The development of the Western Rail Corridor would impact positively on Ballina, as a major national and international freight hub. That’s according to the freight company IWT who have already established a major freight hub at Ballina railway station. The…
  • Feb 20, 2021

    First mass vaccination centre opens

    The country's first mass vaccination centre is up and running this morning - with more than a thousand over 85s set to receive their first Covid jab today. Dozens of smaller GP practices are coming together at the Helix in DCU to administer the Pfizer and…
  • Feb 20, 2021

    Minister 'hopeful' for full reopening of special schools from March

    The Minister for Special Education says she's 'hopeful' special schools will fully reopen on March 1st. In-person classes resumed for 8,500 children on Thursday of last week, but only on a 50 per cent basis. Many children have gone to school two days a week,…
  • Feb 20, 2021

    Two arrested following large drugs haul in Mayo

    Gardaí have arrested two people in connection with a large drugs haul in Ballina. The Mayo Divisional Drugs Unit seized an estimated €80,000 worth of cannabis following a search of a property in the area. Shortly after 8:15pm yesterday evening Gardaí carried…
  • Feb 20, 2021

    Wind warning issued nationwide

    A Status Yellow wind warning comes into effect across the country this morning. Met Eireann says winds will reach mean speeds of 50 to 65km/h with gusts of 90 to 110km/h. The warning comes into effect at 11 o’clock and will last until 6 o’clock this evening
  • Feb 19, 2021

    28 more deaths from Covid-19 with Galway recording the second highest number of new cases

    Another 28 people have died with Covid-19, and there are 763 new cases. 251 of the cases are in Dublin, with 84 in Galway, 57 in Kildare, 47 in Limerick and 42 in Waterford. The remaining cases are spread across all other counties. In this region there are 23…
  • Feb 19, 2021

    Mother & Baby Home Commission finds back-up tapes which may hold the erased testimony of witnesses

    The Mother and Baby Homes Commission has discovered back-up tapes which may hold the erased testimony of witnesses. The some 550 interviews were destroyed which has led to considerable upset and annoyance among the survivors of the homes. The government has…
  • Feb 19, 2021

    Ulster Bank announcement is a hammer blow for five Mayo towns says local deputy

    Ulster Bank’s announcement this morning that it is exiting its operations in the State is a devastating blow that will be felt acutely by workers in it five branches in Mayo. That's the view of Erris based Sinn Féin TD Rose Conway-Walsh who says today’s…
  • Feb 19, 2021

    Significant drop in Covid-19 patient numbers at Mayo University Hospital

    754 people with Covid-19 are in hospitals today, which is a 62 percent decrease from the peak last month. In the past 24 hours there were 46 admissions to and 40 discharges from hospitals. It's 2 percent down on yesterday's total, while it’s fallen 21 percent…
  • Feb 19, 2021

    Mayor of Galway alarmed as city centre records highest Covid-19 infection rate

    The Mayor of Galway says it is alarming that the city centre has the highest rate of Covid-19 infection nationwide. Mike Cubbard is based in the Local Electoral Area and he says it was inevitable that there was going to be outbreaks when students returned for…
  • Feb 19, 2021

    Government to provide detailed plan next week on rollout of Covid vaccine to everyone

    Minister McEntee says government will provide a detailed plan next week of when everyone can expect to receive the Covid 19 vaccination. Minister McEntee says that the rollout of the vaccine programme is now progressing well, with 45,000 people vaccinated…
  • Feb 19, 2021

    New out-patient dept at Portiuncula Hospital to open next month

    The new out-patient department at Portiuncula hospital will open on the 12th of March, according to Roscommon/Galway deputy Denis Naughten. He has also been informed that the tender for the construction of the new 50 bed ward block at Portiuncula University…
  • Feb 19, 2021

    Gardaí are investigating an act of vandalism to a church in Sligo

    Gardaí are investigating an act of vandalism to a church in County Sligo this week. A large amount of graffiti was sprayed on the outside walls of the church of the Holy Rosary, Kilmactigue, near the village of Aclare, on Wednesday night. Ballymote Gardai are…
  • Feb 19, 2021

    Deputy CMO says progress suppressing the virus hasn't stalled

    The Deputy Chief Medical Officer says Ireland's progress in driving down Covid rates has not "stalled". NPHET yesterday reported 901 new cases of the virus, and 47 deaths. There were 27 new cases in Mayo, 43 in Galway, 9 in Leitrim, 7 in Roscommon, 5 in…
  • Feb 19, 2021

    Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions could be in place until May

    Level 5 restrictions could be in place until May with Ministers expecting almost no measures to ease next month. The phased re-opening of schools is likely to be the only major easing of the current lockdown amid fears around the new COVID variants. Public…
  • Feb 19, 2021

    Ulster Bank announces withdrawal from the Irish market

    Ulster Bank has announced a phased withdrawal from the Irish market. The bank's wind down will take place over a number of years, with no immediate change for customers. The financial institution operates five branches across Mayo, in Ballina, Belmullet,…
  • Feb 19, 2021

    Galway City Central LEA has the highest rate of Covid-19 infection nationally

    A local electoral area in Galway has a 14-day incidence rate of Covid-19 at least three times the national average. Galway City Central LEA had a rate of 951 per 100,000 people in the two-week period that ended on Monday, compared to the national average of…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Galway has third highest number of new Covid cases nationally this evening

    The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 47 additional deaths related to Covid-19. 44 of these deaths occurred in February, 2 occurred in January and 1 in December. As of midnight last night (Wed) 901 new cases of the virus were…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Senator Murphy insists - no ban on turf cutting or burning by FF government

    Roscommon Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed a commitment given by the Fianna Fail party that the current government will not agree to a ban on turf cutting or turf burning. Senator Murphy says along with his colleague Barry Cowen TD, he spoke at the…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Wed, June 9th is the start of the 2021 Leaving Cert Exam

    The Leaving Cert exams will get underway on Wednesday June 9th. English paper one is the first exam to take place and will be held at 9:30 that morning. Physical Education will be the last subject to be examined on Tuesday June 29th. No additional time has…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Rural people need to be protected if nationwide ban on smoky coal in imposed

    Sinn Fein says people living in rural areas need to be protected if there's going to be a nationwide ban on smoky coal. The Government wants to introduce the measure, saying 1,300 people are dying prematurely every year from air pollution. The public…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Cabinet sub-committee on Covid meeting about now

    The cabinet sub-committee on COVID is meeting around now this evening to discuss a date for the re-opening of schools. It's expected students will return to classrooms from March 1st on a phased basis. Some students won't return to the classroom until April.…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Trocaire's Lent Appeal hit by pandemic, but need remains the same

    Trócaire is urging people across the region to support its Lent Appeal as Covid restrictions curtail distribution of Trócaire boxes The charity’s Lenten Appeal launched this week, but social and travel restrictions, including school closures and the…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Dog owners who fail to clean up after their animals should be DNA tested & fined, says Ballina Councillor

    People who fail to clean –up after they allow their dog to foul on public footpaths should be DNA tested and fined. That was the view expressed by Ballina councillor Annie Mae Reape at this week’s monthly meeting of Ballina Municipal District. The councillor…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Just Eat introduces drone delivery services in Oranmore from today

    Just Eat, a food ordering and delivery service company, today confirmed that drone delivery will now be available to customers in Oranmore, Co. Galway. Powered by Manna, the world’s first aviation-grade B2B drone delivery ‘as-a-service’ platform, and…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Mayo, among 15 Camile Thai new locations

    Thai food chain Camile Thai is to open 15 new outlets across Ireland and the UK, including Mayo, with the creation of over 300 jobs. 220 of the jobs will be based in Ireland, as the chain plans to open new outlets in Dublin, Cork, Mayo and Waterford. The…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Mayo Senator welcomes choice for Leaving Cert students

    Students will have a choice between written exams and predictive grades for this year's Leaving Cert. The Cabinet sub-committee on education approved a model yesterday evening that will see all students offered predictive grades for each subject. They will…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    "Normal People" nominated for Broadcasting Press Guild TV and Streaming Awards

    Normal People is among the programmes nominated for the 2021 Broadcasting Press Guild TV and Streaming Awards. The TV show set in Sligo and Dublin, based on the novel by Castlebar author Sally Rooney, is up for best drama series. Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Slight improvement in Castlebar's air quality, following ban on smoky coal

    The Environment Minister Eamon Ryan has taken the first step towards a nationwide ban on the sale and burning of smoky coal. The Minister has launched a public consultation to seek views on the further regulation of solid fuel use for domestic home heating.…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Minister hopes for phased reopening of schools from 1st March

    The Education Minister is cautiously optimistic schools can begin a phased reopening on the 1st of March. The plan is to bring back Leaving Cert students and the youngest classes in primary school first. Other classes are likely to follow around two weeks…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Latest Covid-19 figures across Connacht

    The Taoiseach says health officials are 'hugely concerned' as the so-called 'UK variant' which emerged in December now accounts for 90 per cent of Covid-19 cases. It comes as the death toll from the virus exceeded 4,000 here yesterday, and more than 6,000 on…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Cash and cannabis herb seized during search in Co Roscommon

    Gardai seized €18,000 in cash and a small quantity of cannabis herb during the search of a property in Frenchpark, Co Roscommon earlier this week. The search was carried out on Tuesday by the Roscommon / Longford Divisional Drugs Unit, as part of an…
  • Feb 18, 2021

    Two people due in court following Westport burglary

    Two people were arrested in relation to a burglary at a business premises in Westport on Tuesday night. Gardai have confirmed to Midwest News that a quantity of cash and some items were taken from the premises. A man and a woman, both in their 20's, were…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Leaving Certs 2021 to be given a choice

    This year's Leaving Cert will go ahead with a choice for students between written exams and calculated grades. Junior Cert 2021 has also been cancelled after a meeting of the cabinet sub-committee on education. Each student will be given a calculated grade…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Galway has second highest number of Covid cases nationally this evening

    The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 57 additional deaths related to Covid-19. 34 of these deaths occurred in February, 21 in January, 1 in December and 1 in November. The median age of those who died was 82 years and the age…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Funding needs to be secured for infrastructure around SDZ designated IWAK, according to councillor

    An application for capital funding to develop the strategic development zone (SDZ) at Ireland West Airport was proposed and approved this week by members of Mayo County Council’s Economic and Enterprise Special Policy Committee (SPC) meeting. Foxford based…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    4 people to be charged with breaches of Covid regulations in connection with Clifden Golf Dinner

    Gardaí have confirmed they're seeking to prosecute four people in relation to the organisation of last year's Golfgate dinner in Co. Galway. Two politicians are among the group that will be summonsed before the District Court facing allegations of organising…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    40 percent of students in Mayo have insufficient broadband, according to survey on Leaving Cert conducted by deputy Alan Dillon

    Mayo deputy Alan Dillon has published the key points of his survey for Leaving Certificate students in county Mayo. With over 520 respondents, almost 400 of whom were Leaving Certificate students the survey indicates a strong preference for a calculated…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Over 85s, as promised, will all receive Covid Vaccine in 3 week timeframe, according to Mayo deputy

    The government’s three week window to have all over 85 year olds in the community receive their first Covid 19 vaccination is on track and will be achieved, according to Mayo Fianna Fail deputy Dara Calleary. Midwest News is aware of many over 85 year olds in…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    LISTEN: No recognition for the work home carers do - The Tommy Marren Show

    We had a huge response to this very open and honest interview with Anne Marie this morning. She feels that there is no recognition for the work home carers do. "We are saving the state billions and propping up a faulty health service. I'm just looking for…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Green light for new Aldi store in Ballina

    Aldi Stores (Ireland) Ltd has secured the green light to develop a supermarket in Ballina. Conditional planning permission for the development has been secured from Mayo County Council. Colin Breslin, Regional Managing Director, Aldi Ireland, told Midwest…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Castlerea GP claims uncertainty over Leaving Cert affecting mental health

    The Government is hoping final plans for this year's Leaving Cert can be agreed this afternoon. The Cabinet sub-committee on education is due to be updated on the process by the Education Minister Norma Foley. Castlerea-based GP Dr Madeleine Ní Dhálaigh is a…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Increase in number of Covid patients at Mayo University Hospital

    The number of people in hospital with Covid 19 is continuing to decline. 861 people with the virus are in hospital today, with 151 of these patients in intensive care. However, there's an increase in the number of Covid patients being treated at Mayo…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Grants allocated for 16 swimming pools in Mayo

    Sixteen swimming pools in Mayo have been awarded grants today, in the second phase of the Covid-19 swimming pool grant scheme, to help maintain pools while closed. Sport Ireland, which administers the scheme, has announced total funding of €700,000, as pools…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Body of missing Mayo man located in Galway

    Gardai have called off the search for a Mayo man missing in Galway after his body was located. Public appeals were made for information on 38-year old Joseph Langan - a native of Lacken - who was missing from the Wellpark Road area of Galway since 26th…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Mayo TDs urged to support new Bill to ban dual pricing by insurance companies

    Sinn Fein will bring a Bill before the Dail later today, seeking to ban dual pricing when it comes to insurance premiums. Currently, insurance companies are allowed to charge a higher premium to loyal customers - and Mayo TD Rose Conway-Walsh says this…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Final plans for Leaving Cert expected to be agreed later today

    The final plans for this year's Leaving Cert are expected to be agreed this afternoon. The cabinet sub-committee on education is due to be updated by Education Minister Norma Foley on the process, in order to give clarity to the 60,000 or so students due to…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    New Covid cases could fall to 200 daily by March 1st, says NPHET

    The National Public Health Emergency Team is predicting a 70% drop in Covid-19 hospital admissions by mid-March if the country continues on its current path. It says the number could drop to 250 in less than a month - 813 people are currently receiving…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Mary Robinson "misled" in case involving missing Dubai princess

    Former President of Ireland, Ballina native Mary Robinson claims she was completely misled in the case involving a missing princess from Dubai. It's after Princess Latifa sent secret video messages saying she was being held hostage in her own country. The…
  • Feb 17, 2021

    Appointment of Aaron Forde as chair of Shannon Group will not be proceeding

    The Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan has announced he will not be proceeding with the appointment of Aaron Forde as chair of the Shannon Group. Yesterday, Minister Ryan had announced the appointment of the former Aurivo CEO as the new chairperson of the…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Galway records second-highest number of new Covid-19 cases

    A further 33 deaths have been recorded this evening from Covid-19. There's also 744 new cases of the virus - the second lowest in a single day this year. 301 of the cases are in Dublin, with 77 in Galway. Elsewhere in Connacht, 22 new cases have been reported…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Former Aurivo CEO appointed new Chairman of the Shannon Group

    Former CEO of Aurivo Co-op Aaron Forde has been appointed the new Chairman of the Shannon Group. A native of Co Cavan, Mr Forde has a track record at senior level with international leadership experience gained across Ireland and the UK. He was Chief…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Minister planning phased return to school next month

    The Education Minister Norma Foley has told the Cabinet she's planning for a phased return to school for all students next month. March 1st has been set as a target date, but talks with unions and other stakeholders are still ongoing. The Cabinet also heard…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    5 Star Ranking from Forbes Travel Guide for Ashford Castle Cong

    Forbes Travel Guide has just announced its Star Rating winners for 2021 and, for the second consecutive year, Ashford Castle is the only hotel in Ireland to achieve a Five-Star ranking in the annual honours list, the top rating possible and the ultimate gold…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    LISTEN: Pharmacist Mark Jordan talking about the new Covid-19 Vaccines.

    Mark Jordan is a Supervising Pharmacist in Ballina. He is also a PSI (Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland) council member which is an elected position and he writes many articles for various pharmacy publications including The Irish Pharmacy News. Mark has…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Another wind warning issued for tonight for Mayo, Galway & Donegal

    Another status yellow wind warning has been issued for Mayo, Galway and Donegal from midnight tonight. Met Eireann says southwesterly winds tonight will gust to between 80 and 100 km/h, highest in coastal areas. Where winds are onshore, there's a risk of…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Covid-19 hospital numbers drop to lowest levels since early January

    861 people with Covid-19 are receiving treatment in Irish hospitals this morning - the lowest number since early January. It's 6 percent down on yesterday's total, while it is 22 percent less than last Tuesday. In the past 24 hours there were 45 admissions…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Mayo GP calls for clarity on when vaccine supplies will be delivered

    A Belmullet GP is calling for clarity on when practices across Mayo will get Covid-19 vaccine supplies. Dr Fergal Ruane says the uncertainty means his Belmullet practice and practices across the region can’t plan clinics, staffing levels, or set vaccine…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Udaras welcomes IPSOS/MRBI decision to establish a presence in gteic@Béal an Mhuirthead

    Údarás na Gaeltachta has welcomed the decision by leading market research company IPSOS/MRBI to establish a presence in gteic@Béal an Mhuirthead. Two full time jobs will be created in Belmullet initially and IPSOS has announced that they are looking to…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Company to develop electric motors for boats in Achill secures research assistance

    A company that intends to set up its manufacturing base on Achill Island later this year is to collaborate with a UCD research team on the development of highly efficient electric motors for the marine industry. I-Form, the Science Fund Ireland Research…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Taoiseach defends locations of new Covid vaccination centres

    The Taoiseach is defending the locations of the new Covid-19 vaccination centres. 37 are to be rolled out nationwide, with at least one in every county. However, some local TDs are raising concerns that people will have to travel some distance for their…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Three say it hopes to have its services restored by tomorrow in Erris

    Three coverage in the Erris area is down since Saturday, and the company told Midwest News today that it may be tomorrow, (Wed) before the full service is restored. The company confirmed that due to high winds over the weekend, a mast is down in the…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    100,000 euro bill to reopen Ballina footbridge by May

    The pedestrian bridge over the river Moy in Ballina will not re-open to the public until May, and the cost of repairing the relatively new structure could be well in excess of 100,000 euro. That was confirmed today by the Manager of the Ballina Municipal…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Three coverage down in the Erris area since Saturday

    Three coverage in the Erris area is down since Saturday with no indication of when the telecommunications service will be restored. Listeners to Midwest News say that the service went down on Saturday last and remains down. When Three customers complained to…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    IWT calls on Oireachtas committee today to reduce the cost of using rail lines for freight

    International Warehousing and Transport, a company that runs daily freight trains from Ballina to Dublin is today making a presentation to the Oireachtas Transport Committee today calling for the cost of using the railway lines to be decreased. There's an…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    West Mayo national school fundraiser exceeds goal in one week

    A fundraising campaign to raise funds to complete the modernisation of Ballintubber National School in Co mayo has raised over €11,000 in a week. The target was to raise €8,000. In the region of €800,000 has been spent on the modernisation of Ballintubber…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Mayo personalities star in 'stay home' Covid-19 video message

    Midwest Radio presenter David Cawley and Erris singer Chantelle Padden are among a number of familiar Mayo voices featured in a new video message from Mayo County Council, urging people across the county to stay home and stay safe in the fight against…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Irish Water commits to refurnishing rusty Ballina pipeline by December

    Irish Water has committed to refurnishing 4km of rusty pipe at Currower, just outside Ballina. That was confirmed by Cllr John O’Hara, who says the news will be welcomed by some 40 affected residents along the network. The metal and rust coming off the old…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Legislation allowing mandatory hotel quarantine for arrivals from 20 countries goes before cabinet later

    Legislation to allow for mandatory hotel quarantine for some people arriving into the country will go before the cabinet this morning. Under the plans anyone arriving from a list of 20 countries deemed high risk will have to isolate at a state facility. While…
  • Feb 16, 2021

    Hundreds of homes across Mayo and Galway without power this morning

    Hundreds of homes across Mayo and Galway are without power this morning following strong winds overnight. There are up to 800 homes without power in Belmullet according to the ESB powercheck app. It is currently unknown when supply will be restored to…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    No new deaths reported from Covid-19 today

    There are 821 new cases of Covid-19 in the Republic this evening, and no additional deaths. 333 of the cases are in Dublin. The second highest number - 91 - are in Galway, while elsewhere in the West, there are 17 new cases in Mayo, 10 in Sligo, 8 in…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    Mayo TD calls for second vaccination centre for North Mayo

    Mayo FG Deputy Alan Dillon is calling for a second Covid vaccination centre for Co Mayo, to be located in the north of the county. While welcoming confirmation that Breaffy House Resort will be the primary vaccination centre for Mayo, Deputy Dillon says that…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    Ashes being made available for take-away ahead of Ash Wednesday

    Parishes across the country are handing out take-away ashes for people to use on Ash Wednesday. Mass will be offered online in many churches around the country, with people applying the ashes themselves in their homes. Sachets of blessed ashes can be picked…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    Gardai investigate theft of gates from Co Roscommon cemetery

    Gardai in Castlerea are investigating the theft of gates from a cemetery over the weekend. The gates were stolen from Rathmoyle Cemetery, which is located near Castleplunkett. The cemetery dates back to the early 1800's and is maintained by the local…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    N60 closed in Ballinlough and Castlerea from today to allow for roadworks

    Roadworks are taking place from today on the N60, both in Ballinlough village and in Castlerea town. In Castlerea, the main road is closed between Clonalis and Hell's Kitchen corner - which is the junction with the Frenchpark road. and this closure will…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    LISTEN: Laura & Pat are suffering with Long Covid - The Tommy Marren Show

    Some people have long-lasting symptoms after their Covid-19 infection, this has been dubbed "long Covid". Scientists are still researching long Covid. Tommy spoke to two listeners this morning experiencing long Covid. Laura is a student nurse in her final…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    Breaffy House Resort Castlebar confirmed as the new Mayo Vaccination Centre for the county

    Breaffy House Resort in Castlebar is among the 37 locations / centres announced this afternoon nationally by the Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly for the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme. The 37 centres have been confirmed by the HSE, with at least one in…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    €33.5 million allocated for regional and local roads in Mayo for 2021

    €33.5 million has been allocated today for regional and local roads in Mayo for 2021. This is up from last year's €32 million allocation, and includes €17 million for restoration and improvement works, almost €5 million for maintenance and €1.3 million for…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    Retired GP says most Mayo practices won't experience delays in vaccine rollout

    Over 85’s across Mayo can expect to receive their Covid-19 vaccines from today. That’s according to retired Ballindine-based GP Dr. Ken Egan, who says the age group should get their first inoculations before the 8th of March. The former IMO President says…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    Man arrested in connection with 85,000 euro drug seizure in Ballinrobe yesterday

    Gardaí in Mayo seized €85,500 worth of suspected cocaine, and a further €1,400 in suspected cannabis in Ballinrobe yesterday (Sunday) Gardaí attached to the Mayo Divisional Drugs Unit made the detection at approximately 1pm when a man was observed retrieving…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    Minister Rabbitte says 16,000 over 85s nationally will receive their first Covid jabs this week

    The rollout of the Covid vaccinations for the over 85s in the community is now underway, and according to Galway based Minister Anne Rabbitte, 16,000 will receive their first jab this week. The Minister of State at the Department of Children, Disability,…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    Wind warning for the northwest extended

    A Status Yellow wind warning has been extended to include Mayo, Galway, Sligo and Donegal. Met Eireann say south-westerly winds will reach mean speeds of 50 to 65km/h and gusts of 90 to 110km/h, with possibly higher speeds in exposed coastal fringes. Where…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    Talks on plans for the Leaving Certificate continue later

    Talks between government and teacher unions on plans for this year's Leaving Cert will continue today. Confidential discussions were held over the weekend in a bid to reach agreement ahead of Tuesday's Cabinet meeting. One of the proposals being discussed is…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    Vaccine rollout to Over 85's commences

    A major rollout of the covid vaccination programme is to get underway from today. Up to 80 thousand people aged over 85 will start getting the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines over the next 3 weeks. RCSI Professor Sam McConkey says if someone in the over 85 age…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    Jobs boost for the Erris region

    IPSOS/MRBI is set to establish a presence in the Mayo Gaeltacht. The leading market research company will create two full time jobs at the Belmullet gteic hub initially, followed by a further 30 for a mixture of part and full-time positions in the greater…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    New Living with Covid Plan not expected to include reopening dates

    The government's updated Living with Covid plan will involve a staggered return of construction and schools but maintain a ban on indoor household visits and hospitality. The Irish Times reports the draft plan doesn't include dates for the reopening of…
  • Feb 15, 2021

    Status Yellow wind warning issued for Mayo and Galway

    A Status Yellow wind warning comes into effect across Mayo, Galway and Donegal tonight. Met Eireann say southwesterly winds will reach mean speeds of 50 to 65km/h and gusts of 90 to 110km/h and where winds are onshore there is a risk of coastal flooding…
  • Feb 14, 2021

    Galway records one of the highest new case totals

    788 more people have contracted Covid-19, and 17 more patients have died. The youngest victim was just 50 years old. There are 899 people in hospital with the virus after 34 more people were admitted today -- with 160 receiving intensive care. All counties in…
  • Feb 14, 2021

    Thousands of homes remain without power in Mayo and Roscommon

    Thousands of ESB customers remain without power this afternoon across County Mayo and Roscommon following strong winds. ESB say customers right across Belmullet, Crossmolina, Westport, Ballinrobe, Achill, Knockaphunta, Castlerea, Boyle and Ballaghaderreen are…
  • Feb 14, 2021

    Leaving Cert students could return to school in eight days time

    Leaving Cert students could be going back to school on a phased basis from Monday week under new government plans. The Sunday Independent reports primary schools would return gradually from March 1st, followed by other secondary classes later next month. The…
  • Feb 14, 2021

    Roscommon player shares in sizeable Lotto prize

    A lucky Roscommon Lotto player will share a prize of over €100,000 after coming within one number of last night’s Lotto jackpot which was worth €3,75m. The lucky player from Roscommon purchased their winning Quick Pick ticket at Mitchell’s Supermarket in…
  • Feb 14, 2021

    Sligo native appears in court in connection with a large drugs haul

    A Sligo man appeared before court yesterday evening, charged in connection with an €8.2m drugs find in Co. Kildare this week. 49-year-old Eugene Mulligan with an address at Carrigans Upper, Ballymore, County Sligo, faces an allegation of possessing cannabis…
  • Feb 14, 2021

    Thousands without power across North Mayo

    Thousands of ESB customers are without power this morning across County Mayo following strong winds. ESB say customers right across the Erris region, Newport, Crossmolina and parts of Ballina are affected. Crews are working to restore power but the weather…
  • Feb 14, 2021

    Dedicated helpline at NUIG following Covid-19 outbreak

    Students at NUI Galway are being urged to contact the university if they feel unwell, or think they're a close contact, after a Covid-19 outbreak there. Helplines have been set up to assist students, and will be staffed from 9am to 9pm. NUI Galway also says…
  • Feb 14, 2021

    Motorists advised to exercise caution on the roads this morning with Status Orange Wind Warning across the region

    Gusts of up to 110 kilometres per hour are expected across the country today, with a status yellow wind warning in place nationwide. That's set to be upgraded to orange from 11am for Donegal, Mayo and Galway, where coastal flooding is possible. Motorists are…
  • Feb 14, 2021

    Gardai investigating a number of burglaries in Sligo

    Gardaí in Sligo received reports of a person rummaging through unlocked vehicles in Ballisodare on Friday night. This man was chased by some locals, but was not apprehended. Later that night, Gardaí received a report of a male interfering with a vehicle just…
  • Feb 13, 2021

    All counties record new Covid-19 infections this evening

    1,078 more people have contracted Covid-19, and 66 more patients with the virus have died. 41 of those deaths happened in February -- with the youngest victim aged just 39. All counties recorded new infections today, with 433 in Dublin, 139 in Galway, 52 in…
  • Feb 13, 2021

    ASTI re-enter Leaving Certificate talks

    The ASTI has decided to re-enter talks with the Department of Education to discuss how this year's Leaving Cert will work. The union pulled out of discussions earlier this week over proposals to prioritise a system of calculated grades. The ASTI now says it's…
  • Feb 13, 2021

    LCSS proposed to tackle traffic congestion at a Ballina national school

    A low cost safety scheme will look to tackle congestion problems at Breaffy National School in Ballina. That’s according to local councillor John O’Hara who raised the issue at a recent Municipal District meeting. The cllr says that congestion on route to the…
  • Feb 13, 2021

    Farmers invited to consult on new agri-enviro pilot

    Farmers across the region are invited to take part in a questionnaire regarding a new agri-environmental scheme. The new E70m scheme is being piloted by the Government this year, according to Mayo Deputy Dara Calleary. The Fianna Fail TD says that this…
  • Feb 13, 2021

    Status Orange wind alert for Mayo and Galway tomorrow

    A Status Orange wind warning and two Status Yellow wind alerts have been issued across the region tomorrow. The 12-hour Status Yellow alert for Mayo, Galway, Sligo, Leitrim, Dublin, Louth, Wexford, Wicklow, Meath, Donegal, Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick and…
  • Feb 13, 2021

    Vaccination hubs operational in Sligo and Galway for GPs today

    Just under two thousand doses of the Moderna coronavirus vaccine will be administered to GPs today. Four vaccination hubs have been set up in Galway, Sligo, Dublin and Portlaoise so doctors can get their second jab. It comes ahead of the rollout of Covid-19…
  • Feb 13, 2021

    Government prepared to plan for Leaving Cert without ASTI

    The Government says it's prepared to go ahead with planning for the Leaving Cert, with or without the support of the ASTI. The Irish Times reports under draft plans, all students would have the option to avail of calculated grades and complete written exams…
  • Feb 13, 2021

    NUIG operating Covid-19 student health service following outbreak

    NUI Galway is operating a Covid-19 student health service this weekend following an outbreak of the virus on campus. The university says there's been an increase in student cases in Galway. Students who have symptoms are being asked to call a helpline in…
  • Feb 13, 2021

    Country is 'back on track' in battle against Covid-19

    The Tánaiste insists the country is 'back on track' in the battle against Covid-19 - but he says the fight is far from over. The five-day average has dropped to 835 cases, after 921 new infections were confirmed yesterday. There were 32 new cases in Galway,…
  • Feb 13, 2021

    Thousands without power across the West following strong winds and snow

    Thousands of homes, farms and businesses are without power this morning after strong winds and snow overnight. The ESB says there are large outages across Mayo in Facefield, Swinford, Achill, Crossmolina, Ardnaree and Ballyhaunis; Enniscrone in Co. Sligo; and…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    More than 20 deaths related to Covid 19 nationally reported this evening

    The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has this evening been notified of 23 additional deaths related to Covid-19 in the Republic. 21 of these deaths occurred in February and two occurred in January. As of midnight last night (Thurs) 921 new cases of the…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    75 jobs to go as Galway pharmaceutical company to close

    The pharmaceutical company AbbVie is set to close its Galway operation with the loss of around 75 jobs. RTE is reporting this evening that he facility, in the Knocknacarra area of the city, has had a number of owners since it was established in 2016.…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Public view sought on option routes for Galway to Athlone Greenway

    Public Consultation on five potential route corridor options for the new Galway to Athlone Cycleway Project is still open and the project team is encouraging the public and interested parties to view the proposals and make their submissions over the coming…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Third weather warning issued by Met Eireann for Connaught counties tonight

    Met Eireann has issued a third weather warning that is due to come into effect at 9 o'clock tonight for 9 coastal counties. The 12 hour yellow wind alert affects Mayo, Galway, Leitrim, Donegal, Sligo, Clare, Cork, Kerry and Waterford with gusts of up to…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Ballinrobe community angered by last night's vandalism to local football pitch, according to councillor

    The community of Ballinrobe is upset and angered by the act of vandalism that occurred last night when the local National School’s football pitch was extensively damaged, according to local councillor Michael Burke. Cllr Burke told Midwest News this evening…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    WATCH: School football pitch extensively damaged in county Mayo overnight

    Gardai in Ballinrobe are investigating criminal damage caused to the local primary school’s football pitch overnight. It’s understood that 4 males drove on to the pitch at St Joseph’s NS last night with three vehicles and began doing donuts on the surface,…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Castlebar teacher offers alternative to traditional Leaving Cert exams

    A Castlebar teacher is proposing ‘Open Access’ to university be used as an alternative to the traditional state exams for the Leaving Cert class of 2021. Joe Daly is a science teacher in St Gerald’s College and he believes the Leaving Cert exams are no longer…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Section of Castlebar's main street remains closed off to traffic today

    The section of Castlebar’s main street that was closed off to traffic yesterday following debris coming off the roof of a building and falling on a car, remains closed to traffic today. A spokesperson for Mayo County Council told Midwest News this afternoon…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Almost 9 million euro invested in the South West region of Mayo under the Leader programme 2014-2020

    Over 120 projects have progressed to full approval by the South West Mayo Development Company, under LEADER 2014-2020. Sabina Trench, LEADER Programme Coordinator for the company working with Mayo Local Action Group and Mayo County Council, says the total…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Galway based businessman is suing CNN over a report

    Telecoms entrepreneur, Galway based business man, Declan Ganley is suing CNN over a report suggesting Donald Trump’s administration pressurised US defence officials to award his company a multi-billion dollar contract without a competitive tender. According…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    7 cents a day tax rebate for staff working from home during the pandemic last year

    Remote workers will receive as little as 7 cent a day in a tax refund for remote working last year (2020), despite forking out at least €210 in extra heating and lighting over that period as a result of having to work from home due to the pandemic, according…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Power outages along the Mayo and Galway coast this morning

    A number of homes along the west coast of Mayo and Galway are without power this morning, according to the ESB powercheck app. Almost 200 are without power in Achill, a number of homes are without power in the Leenane area and over 70 are without power in the…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Call for swift action to address road safety concerns in Kilmaine

    A local councillor is calling for swift action to be taken with regards to addressing road safety concerns in Kilmaine village. Fianna Fail's Damien Ryan has called on Mayo County Council to solve the exit from Kilmaine Community Grounds and connectivity to…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Local MEP welcomes commitment on Northern Ireland Protocol

    The EU and the UK say they're 'fully committed' to implementing the Northern Ireland Protocol. It's after their negotiators met in London last night and had a 'frank but constructive discussion'. They're promising to address problems the new checks on goods…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Covid-19 numbers in hospital continue downward trend

    The number of Covid-19 hospitalisations has fallen by nearly two thirds since the peak of the third wave. 866 more people have tested positive for the virus, and a further 52 patients have died. There were 28 new cases of Covid 19 in Mayo, 63 in Galway, 14 in…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Treacherous conditions on roads across the region this morning

    People are being warned of dangerous driving conditions across the region this morning. A status yellow snow and ice alerts expired in Connacht and 11 other counties at 8 o'clock this morning. There was snow and sleet in many areas yesterday, but Met Éireann…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Castlebar LEA has Covid-19 rate over twice the national average

    The Castlebar LEA has the fourth highest 14-day incidence rate of Covid-19 in the country, at over twice the national average. It had 700 cases per 100,000 people as of Monday last, while the national rate of infection was 319. That accounts for 210 cases out…
  • Feb 12, 2021

    Fresh talks on row over Leaving Cert plans resume today

    A fresh round of talks will take place today between the ASTI and Department of Education aimed at resolving a row over plans for the Leaving Cert. The main secondary teachers union pulled out of discussions last night, describing a proposal to rely heavily…
  • Feb 11, 2021

    Galway has second highest new cases of Covid 19 nationally this evening

    The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has this evening been notified of 52 additional deaths related to Covid-19. 33 of these deaths occurred in February, 12 occurred in January, 6 in December or earlier and 1 is still under investigation. The median age…
  • Feb 11, 2021

    20 countries on government's mandatory hotel quarantine list

    Twenty countries now feature on the Government's mandatory hotel quarantine list. They include Brazil, Austria, the UAE, South Africa and 16 countries within sub-Saharan Africa. Meanwhile fines for non-essential travel abroad are being increased. Travellers…
  • Feb 11, 2021

    Protesters want answers from HSE Regional West Forum re letter sent by MUH management to staff last March

    A small group of people have been protesting in Castlebar’s Market Square for months now, looking for clarity on how Covid patients were and are being managed at Mayo University Hospital since the start of the pandemic. Martina Burke is one of the protesters…
  • Feb 11, 2021

    More than 1500 Learner Drivers waiting for a driving test in Mayo

    A Mayo deputy is calling on the Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan, to take decisive action to tackle the massive driving test backlog. Sinn Fein Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh’s plea come as the Road Safety Authority (RSA) confirmed that there are now 1,548…
  • Feb 11, 2021

    A section of Main Street Castlebar is cordoned off to traffic this afternoon

    A section of upper Main Street in Castlebar is cordoned off to traffic this afternoon. It’s understood that debris fell from the roof of a building along Ellison Street and damaged a car on the street this afternoon. Following the incident Mayo County Council…
  • Feb 11, 2021

    St Brid's special school in Castlebar has reopened today

    Children with special needs are returning to school from today, as special schools have been allowed to reopen, for the first time since before Christmas. The special schools are only permitted 50% capacity, with children attending on alternate days. Special…
  • Feb 11, 2021

    Galway student with chronic kidney failure pleads for clarity on priority vaccination list and Leaving Cert format for 2021

    A county Galway Leaving Cert student living with chronic kidney failure is calling for clarity now on when people with her condition will be vaccinated and what format this year’s leaving cert exam will take. 19 year old Lauren Melia from Oughterard is…