Latest News

  • Aug 01, 2021

    Over a thousand new Covid-19 cases

    The Department of Health has been notified of 1,098 cases of Covid-19 this afternoon. The figure is a decrease of 329 on yesterday's figure. There are currently 163 Covid-19 patients in hospital - of which 26 are in ICU. Meanwhile, over 70 per cent of the…
  • Aug 01, 2021

    Suck Valley Way to host charity cycle as part of Heritage Week

    The Suck Valley Way is hosting a number of events to celebrate Heritage Week later this month. On Sunday the 22nd of August a cycling fundraiser will kick off in Cloonfad for two local charities. The Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation and Jacintha’s Smile will…
  • Aug 01, 2021

    Call for beach season facilities to be expanded in Mayo

    The beach season in Mayo needs to be expanded out in terms of facilities provided by Mayo County Council. That’s the view of the Special Policy Committee (SPC) of the local authority on the Environment. The issue was discussed at a recent meeting of the…
  • Aug 01, 2021

    Local TD denounces vandalism near historic Mayo house

    A Mayo TD has hit out at acts of vandalism at Moore Hall yesterday afternoon. A burnt-out boat and damage to some of the willow installations along the trails at Moore Hall were highlighted by the public. Deputy Alan Dillon described the incident as a…
  • Aug 01, 2021

    International singer reaches out to Galway Bay drifters

    Cousins Ellen Glynn and Sara Feeney who spent 15 hours adrift after being swept out of Galway Bay have received a letter from Taylor Swift. The two women, then aged 17 and 23, were blown away from shore on paddleboards and kept spirits up by singing Swift's…
  • Aug 01, 2021

    A burst watermain is affecting supply to properties in Foxford

    A burst watermain may cause disruption to Irish Water customers in Foxford today. The burst occurred near St Joseph’s secondary school along the Providence Road in the town this morning. Customers in the area may experience low water pressure or outages later…
  • Aug 01, 2021

    Aurivo Co-op announces charity partner for 2021

    Aurivo Co-op has announced that the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is its charity partner for 2021. Over the coming year, Aurivo employees will organise fundraising events for the charity, as part of the Co-op's Charity of the Year programme. The funds raised…
  • Aug 01, 2021

    DCU Professor says high vaccination rate needed to drive down Covid-19

    A DCU Professor says experts believe Ireland must vaccinate over 90 per cent of people here to drive down coronavirus. However, Professor of Health Systems Anthony Staines doesn't think this can happen until Christmas. It comes as 1,427 new cases of covid 19…
  • Aug 01, 2021

    Ireland surpasses UK in Covid-19 vaccine rollout

    The Chief Executive of the HSE says he expects walk-in vaccine centres to continue to operate, after their success yesterday. Over 20 centres will be open today, offering people their first dose of a covid vaccine, without an appointment. Meanwhile, Ireland…
  • Aug 01, 2021

    State Pathologist due in Westport following discovery of a body in the town

    A post mortem's expected to be carried out today on the body of a woman in County Mayo. The woman's body was discovered in Westport yesterday afternoon and gardai were called to the scene. The discovery was made on Castlebar Street in the town and officers…
  • Jul 31, 2021

    Gardaí are investigating the discovery of a body in a Mayo apartment

    Gardaí are investigating all the circumstances surrounding the discovery of a body of a woman in an apartment on Castlebar Street, Westport, Co. Mayo this afternoon.A post mortem will take place and the results of which will determine the course of the…
  • Jul 31, 2021

    Over 1,400 new Covid-19 cases confirmed

    The Department of Health has reported 1,427 new cases of covid-19 this evening. The figure is a decrease of 74 on yesterday's figure. There are currently 164 people in hospital with the virus - of which 26 are in intensive care units. Meanwhile, the Chief…
  • Jul 31, 2021

    N61 reopens to traffic in Roscommon following fatal crash

    The N61 has reopened in Roscommon following a fatal road traffic collision yesterday evening. The single vehicle crash occurred at Four Mile House shortly after 8pm. The man in his mid 20s, driver of the car and the sole occupant, collided with a wall. He was…
  • Jul 31, 2021

    Over 272,000 euro for coastal projects across the North West

    Over 272,000 euro worth of grants have been approved for 16 coastal community groups and micro enterprises across the North West. The funding is provided by the Fisheries Local Action Groups that were set up under the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund…
  • Jul 31, 2021

    Emergency Services attend the scene of a three car crash on the N17

    Gardaí and emergency services are currently at the scene of a road traffic collision on the N17 between Kilkelly and Knock, Co.Mayo. The road is currently closed and diversions are in place.
  • Jul 31, 2021

    Irish Birth Movement hopeful to see easing of maternity restrictions

    The HSE's Chief Clinical Officer has said all maternity units will be compliant with HSE guidelines on partners in the coming week. Dr Colm Henry admitted there have been problems - particularly around infrastructure in some of the units. Many couples are…
  • Jul 31, 2021

    Work started on numerous road upgrades in Tuam

    Work has started on a number of road upgrades in the town of Tuam, including new footpaths. €200,000 is being spent on resurfacing roads, developing paths and cycle ways and enhancing the Palace Grounds. Tuam-based Councillor Donagh Killilea says it's a…
  • Jul 31, 2021

    Dry weather forecast for much of the Bank Holiday weekend

    There'll be a lots of dry weather over the bank holiday weekend, according to Met Eireann. Today and tomorrow will be pleasant - with highest temperatures reaching 15 to 21 degrees. Longer spells of rain are forecast for Monday, especially in Connacht and…
  • Jul 31, 2021

    Gardaí attend the scene of a two-vehicle crash in Galway

    Gardaí are currently at the scene of a road traffic collision on the N83 at Knockdoe, Co. Galway Gardaí were alerted to the incident at approximately 7.15am this morning, when a car and a tractor collided. Investigations are ongoing at this time.
  • Jul 31, 2021

    Online portal launched for Digital Covid Certificate

    An online portal has been launched to help people manage their Digital COVID Certificate. The online service was set up to support the Covid Certificate helpline, which has been overwhelmed with thousands of calls a day since it opened at the start of last…
  • Jul 31, 2021

    Over 20 walk-in vaccination centres operating this weekend

    People will be able to get a Covid jab in over 20 vaccination centres this weekend, without an appointment. This walk-in service was offered for the first time yesterday in three centres - and is being expanded significantly today. Anyone over 16 can show up…
  • Jul 31, 2021

    Covid-19 hospitalisations growing at between 4 and 5 percent daily

    The number of Covid patients in hospital is growing at between 4 and 5 per cent a day, according to NPHET. The group's modelling expert, Philip Nolan, says infections in the fourth wave are unfortunately leading to hospital admissions. 169 people are in…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    Man dies in single vehicle road collision in Roscommon

    Gardaí in Roscommon are investigating a single vehicle fatal road traffic collision, that occurred on the N61 at Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon this evening.The man in his mid 20s, driver of the car and the sole occupant, collided with a wall. He was…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    Over 1500 new Covid-19 cases confirmed this evening

    1,501 new cases of Covid-19 have been reported today - the highest figure in over six months.169 people are in hospital with the virus, with 23 in intensive care.The chief medical officer says vaccination is leading us to a turning point in the pandemic.Dr…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    24,000 spectators to attend Mayo's All-Ireland semi-final in Croke Park next month

    40,000 people will be able to attend the All-Ireland football and hurling finals in Croke Park next month. The Sports Minister, Jack Chambers, has also confirmed 24,000 spectators will be able to go to the semi-finals in the same venue. Mayo will play either…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    Significant demand expected for walk-in vaccination centres across the west this weekend

    The first of the walk-in Covid-19 vaccination centres, operating over the bank holiday weekend, have opened. The walk-in vaccine clinics operated by the HSE are for anyone over the age of 16 who has yet to receive a first dose. The Breaffy House Resort clinic…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    One million euro announced today for Local Action Groups in Mayo

    An additional one million euro in funding has been allocated today to the Local Action Groups in Mayo. The allocation is part of the €70 million in funding announced in April, secured by Minister Humphreys, as part of the government’s plan Our Rural Future.…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    Reduced opening times at MacHale Park Covid-19 test centre this weekend

    The COVID-19 Test Centre at MacHale Park in Castlebar will have reduced opening times for testing over the Bank Holiday weekend due to GAA activity. HSE Community Healthcare West are advising the public that the opening times this weekend are as follows:…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    Sinn Fein deputy says there is grave concern over ongoing overcrowding at the ED of Sligo University Hospital

    Sligo /Leitrim Deputy Martin Kenny has called on the Minister for Health to step in immediately and provide funding for additional staff amid concerns over overcrowding and understaffing at the emergency department at Sligo University Hospital. He says he…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    Communions to take place in Elphin Diocese despite public health advice

    Communions in parts of Sligo, Roscommon, Galway and Westmeath will go ahead despite public health advice. Government says baptisms, communions and confirmations should not take place at this time. However baptisms will be allowed from next Thursday once…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    4Es is the garda approach for Covid compliance, according to Chief Supt of Longford/Roscommon/Mayo

    Gardai across the new garda division of Longford/Roscommon/Mayo are putting the emphasis on the 4Es - engaging, educating, encouraging and enforcing in ensuring that Covid regulations are adhered to. That’s according to the newly appointed Garda Chief…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    MEAI says musicians are in 'dire straits' with failure to resume live music

    A group which represents musicians says they're in 'dire straits' due to the failure to bring back live music. The Music and Entertainment Association of Ireland's calling on the Government to reopen the sector. It says its 5,000 members can't pay their…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    Gardaí issue warning to motorists as we enter Bank Holiday weekend

    As we head into a Bank Holiday weekend, road users are asked to remain alert and ensure a safe weekend on the regions roads. The newly appointed Chief Superintendent for Longford/Roscommon/Mayo Garda Division Raymond McMahon is appealing to motorists to slow…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    2.6 million euro announced for capital works at Mayo University Hospital

    €2.6 million has been announced this morning for capital works at Mayo University Hospital. Mayo Fianna Fail Senator Lisa Chambers says the Minister for Health has announced the significant funding for four capital projects at the hospital. The works include:…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    HSE chief clinical officer says Covid cases beginning to 'plateau'

    The five-day moving average of Covid cases has risen by only 7 per cent over the past week, compared to 67 per cent the previous week. It now stands at 1,272 - after 1,361 new infections were reported yesterday. The HSE's chief clinical officer, Colm Henry,…
  • Jul 30, 2021

    Two LEAs in Mayo have a rate of Covid-19 in excess of the national average

    The Westport local electoral area has by far the highest incidence rate of Covid-19 in Mayo. The area recorded 176 new cases of the virus in the two week period that ended on Monday, giving it a rate of 958 per 100,000 population. That’s almost three times…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    Number of new cases of Covid 19 nationally remains high

    The Department of Health has been notified of 1,361 new cases of Covid-19 in the Republic this evening. There are 160 patients in hospital who have tested positive for the virus. That's a rise of eight since yesterday. The number of patients with the virus in…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    Motor Tax public counters to re-open in Mayo from next week

    The Motor Tax Office public counters in Castlebar, Ballina & Belmullet will re-open with effect from Tuesday next, 3rd August for normal working hours. That was confirmed today by Mayo County Council, saying the development is in accordance with Government’s…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    No need to be vaccinated to return to the workplace

    Workers will not need a covid-19 vaccine before going back to the office. The Taoiseach has confirmed that proof of vaccination will not be necessary with the government aiming for a return to offices in September. People have been advised to work from home…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    Capacity at Croke Park for All Ireland Finals looks set to be boosted

    Capacity at the All-Ireland Finals next month is set to be increased. Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said it's likely the restrictions on crowds will be further eased for the championship semi-finals. At the moment attendance in Croke Park is capped at 18,000.…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    Sligo restauranteur calls for action on online abuse campaigns

    A Sligo restauranteur says there should be action against coordinated online abuse campaigns. Some people opposed to the use of vaccine certs for indoor dining are making fake bookings so businesses lose money. The Restaurants Association has written to the…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    Belmullet selected as a Poetry Town

    Poetry Ireland has announced details of Poetry Town, an initiative, which will see more than a hundred free poetry-related activities take place in 20 towns across the island of Ireland in September. Belmullet is among the Poetry Towns, with activities for…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    Additional Car Parking facilities in Louisburgh

    Mayo County Council is advising the public that additional temporary car parking is now available in Louisburgh at St. Patricks Church. Mayo County Council has extended a sincere thanks to Fr. Mattie Long and Louisburgh Community Futures for their…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    Mayor of Galway accuses Gardai of turning a blind-eye to anti social behavior in the city

    The Mayor of Galway is calling on Gardaí to implement the bye-laws and stop turning a blind eye to public drinking and anti-social behavior in the city. Mayor Collette Connolly has cited examples such as public drinking and urination in public areas, as well…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    Funding boost for LIS roads in Mayo announced today

    Over a half a million euro (€563,129) has been announced today for repairs and improvement works on non-public roads in rural communities in Mayo, as part of the Government’s ‘Our Rural Future’ project. This second investment of funding for The Local…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    Old Head and Strandhill beaches two of just ten beaches nationally deemed "Clean", in latest IBAL coastal survey

    Old Head in Mayo and Strandhill in Sligo are two of just ten beaches nationally categorised as ‘Clean to European norms’, according to a litter survey by business group Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL). Beaches, harbours, rivers and their immediate…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    Man to appear in court this morning in relation to serious assault in Tuam

    Gardai have arrested and charged a man in connection with a serious assault in Tuam earlier this month. The assault occurred in the early hours of Sunday 11th July, at Foster Place in Tuam, Co. Galway. The man, who is in his late teens, is to appear before a…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    West Mayo Councillors send clear message to Education Minister over the Holy Trinity Primary School

    West Mayo councillors have sent a clear message to the Minister for Education Norma Foley and her department that Westport wants the new Holy Trinity primary school building to be the only building on the former Scoil Phadraig site, on Altamont Street in the…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    Families of Galway Olympic medalists celebrating rowing success in Tokyo

    Family and friends of Ireland's bronze medal winning rowing team have been celebrating their success. They came third in the Tokyo Olympic Games in the Women's Fours yesterday. Eimear Lambe from Dublin, Emily Hegarty from Cork and Aifric Keogh and Fiona…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    Sharp rise in number of Covid-19 cases in Westport

    There has been a sharp increase in the number of Covid-19 cases in the Westport area in the last ten days. The incidence rate per is 740 per 100,000 for 14 days which is higher than Galway, Mayo and Roscommon. As a result of this significant rise in Westport…
  • Jul 29, 2021

    NPHET renews appeal for people to take Covid-19 vaccine

    The National Public Health Emergency Team has renewed its appeal for people to take a Covid-19 vaccine when it's offered. Yesterday the Department of Health reported 1,408 new cases of the virus - the highest daily total in six months. 152 people are being…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    Two people taken to hospital following collision in Achill

    Two people were taken to hospital today after Gardaí attended the scene of a two vehicle collision in Achill. The collision involving a car and a jeep occurred at 2:15pm this afternoon close to Keel in Achill. A male and female, both in their 70s were brought…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    Over 1,400 new Covid-19 cases confirmed this evening

    1,408 new cases of covid-19 have been reported today, with 9 virus-related deaths confirmed since last week. 152 covid patients are now in hospital with 26 of those people in critical care. The median age of those infected is 24, while around 2 per cent of…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    Status yellow rain & thunderstorm warning in place across the west

    A status Yellow rain and thunderstorm warning has been issued for Ireland. Met Éireann has said widespread showers and thunderstorms, with longer spells of rain, can be expected between this afternoon and 7am tomorrow. There is also the possibility of…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    Road closed in Achill due to collision

    Gardai are at the scene of a two car collision in Achill. The road is currently closed at the Keel side of Achill Sound. Diversions are in place.
  • Jul 28, 2021

    Walk-in Covid Vaccination Centres get underway across the region from Saturday

    The walk-in vaccination centres to secure a Covid 19 vaccination, without an appointment, get underway across this region from this Saturday (July 31st). In Mayo, the walk-in facility is in Breaffy House Vaccination Centre, Breaffy, Castlebar. It will be…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    37 patients on trolleys today awaiting admission to UHG

    For a third day in a row Galway University Hospital has the third highest number of patients waiting on trolleys nationally to be admitted to the hospital. There are 37 patients on trolleys at the facility today awaiting admission. There are 31 patients on…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    Long delays for patients presenting at the ED of Portiuncula Hospital today

    The Emergency Department at Portiuncula University Hospital in Ballinaasloe is extremely busy with higher than average numbers of people attending, according to a statement this lunchtime from the Saolta Hospital Group. It says due to ongoing pressure on bed…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    Details of Walk-in Covid Vaccination centres across Connaught

    The walk-in vaccination centres to secure a Covid 19 vaccination without an appointment get underway across the region from this Saturday (July 31st). Anyone over the age of 16 can attend and no appointment is required. In Mayo, the walk-in facility is in…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    The death has occurred of well known Galway dancer, actor and artist

    Internationally known actor, dancer and artist, Ray McBride of Galway has died following a long illness. The President of Ireland Michael D Higgins has paid tribute to Ray saying he was the creative heart of Galway. Ray was a star of the stage and performed…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    Covid booster shots likely to be rolled out from September

    The Health Minister says people may be offered covid booster vaccines as soon as September. It will be offered to people at high risk of illness or exposure to covid. 70 per cent of the adult population are now fully vaccinated against the virus. Stephen…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    Minister Rabbitte urges children with underlying health conditions to be prioritised for Covid vaccination

    The Disabilities Minister says children with underlying health conditions should be prioritised in the Covid vaccine rollout. It's after the government yesterday approved 12 to 15 year olds to get a Moderna or Pfizer jab. Registration is expected to begin…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    16 % increase in number of Covid cases over seven days

    Over 1,200 more cases of Covid-19 have been reported over the past week than the previous one. Health officials have confirmed nearly 8,900 cases in the past seven days - up from nearly 7,700 the previous week. 142 Covid patients are in hospital, which is…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    Call for Minister to intervene to deliver pyrite compensation report by the end of the month

    Minister Darragh O’Brien now needs to intervene directly in ensuring that the promised report to be published at the end of this month on the pyrite compensation scheme is delivered. That’s the view of Mayo Sinn Fein deputy Rose Conway Walsh who says that the…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    NPHET says vaccinating children is necessary for the return of schools

    A member of NPHET says vaccinating children is essential for the return of schools next month. The Covid 19 vaccination programme is being extended to all those aged 12 to 15. Dr Mary Favier says she expects children at high risk will be prioritised first as…
  • Jul 28, 2021

    PUP has dropped below 200,000

    The number of people on the Pandemic Unemployment Payment has dropped below 200,000 for the first time. 192,000 people are due to get it this week - the lowest number since it was introduced in March 2020. Over twice as many people got the PUP in the first…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    Over 1100 new cases of Covid 19 reported this evening

    The Department of Health has confirmed 1,120 new cases of Covid-19 this evening in the Republic. There are 142 people in hospital who have tested positive for the virus, up one since yesterday. There are 27 of these patients in ICUs, a rise of two overnight.
  • Jul 27, 2021

    No live music, churches remain confined to 50 people but Senator welcomes 100 guests at wedding receptions from next month

    There is still no live music allowed and many churches remain confined to 50 people, but the good news today for “brides and grooms to be” is that from August 5th 100 people can attend a wedding reception. Mayo Fianna Fail Senator Lisa Chambers has welcomed…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    Concern over young people intentionally catching Covid 19

    Young people are being urged not to catch COVID-19 intentionally, so they can apply for a Digital COVID Cert. A leading GP has described reported behaviour has 'reckless', warning that young people can get sick. The concerns were first raised by Public Health…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    100 guests can attend weddings from August 5th

    The number of people at weddings can increase from 50 to 100 from the 5th of August. Cabinet signed off on the move this morning after initially deciding not to proceed. Church Baptism ceremonies will also be allowed to take place in August. However,…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    Leitrim, Mayo and Roscommon top the house vacancy table nationally

    In Mayo, the average property price was €159,000 for the twelve month period to June of this year. That’s according to the latest GeoView Residential Buildings Report published today by GeoDirectory and EY Economic Advisory. The average residential property…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    Fr Kenny says there is no indication that the number of people in church has increased even if numbers at receptions rise

    As the government looks set to announce shortly, that from next month, up to 100 guests can be accommodated at a wedding reception, an anomaly remains for couples that want a church ceremony, as only 50 guests can be accommodated under the present Covid…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    Long wait for patients seeking admission to UHG today

    Again today, University Hospital Galway has the third highest number of patients on trolleys nationally awaiting admission to the hospital. There are 28 patients on trolleys today at the facility, with 21 patients on trolleys waiting admission to Portiuncula…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    Taoiseach reveals walk in vaccination centres will open this weekend

    The Taoiseach has revealed walk in vaccination centres will open this Bank Holiday Weekend. Full details are expected to be revealed by the HSE later, while a decision is also set to be announced on vaccinating 12-15 year olds. The vaccine portal has opened…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    Bus Eireann cancel Galway-Dublin expressway service

    The Bus Eireann expressway service from Galway to Dublin has been cancelled, and will no longer operate from mid next week. Bus Eireann has said that as of Wednesday, July 28, the Route 20/X20 Expressway service will no longer operate. Along with Galway City,…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    Ballina Credit Union launch Current Account service

    Ballina Credit Union members will now have the option of using Debit cards, following the launch of their new Current Accounts. New members are also welcome at the credit union and the new Current Account product is available immediately. In addition to…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    Casualty rescued from Galway mountain by national park staff

    Galway Mountain Rescue Team was tasked by An Garda Síochána to respond to an incident on a mountain top within the Connemara National Park yesterday afternoon. Following the callout their volunteers mobilized from various locations across the county. However…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    Cabinet is considering plans to increase wedding attendances

    Government Ministers will this morning consider plans to increase the number of guests allowed at weddings to 100 from next month. The number of guests was due to increase from 50 to 100 from the August 6th, but Tánaiste Leo Varadkar recently said the…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    Hospitals preparing for further surge in Covid admissions

    Hospitals are stepping up their preparations for a further surge in Covid admissions, according to the head of a hospital group. 141 patients are in hospital with the virus, compared to just 63 two weeks ago. 1,345 new cases of Covid were confirmed yesterday,…
  • Jul 27, 2021

    16 and 17-year-olds can registers for a vaccine from today

    16 and 17 year olds can register for a Covid-19 vaccine from today. The HSE's online portal is opening for this age-group, meaning they can sign up for a Moderna or Pfizer vaccine. HSE chief executive, Paul Reid, says this generation has sacrificed a lot…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    Schools set to re-open as planned next month

    The Taoiseach says schools will be re-opening from next month. It comes after a weekend of speculation given the rising number of Covid cases fuelled by the Delta wave. Teaching union the ASTI has said while it's concerned about the spread of the virus all…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    Castlebar pub re-opens today under new management

    Customers have been enjoying a welcome return to indoor hospitality today. Many pubs and restaurants across the region have reopened their doors to indoor drinking and dining. It’s a difficult enough prospect of re-opening after so many months closed for…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    10 new jobs created as new coach service launched linking Galway to Dublin

    Aircoach, one of Ireland’s long-standing coach and bus operators, has today announced the commencement of its new route from Galway to Dublin. The first service on the new route will be this Thursday. It will be a Galway-city to Dublin Airport and Dublin city…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    Rain and thunderstorm warning in effect nationwide

    A status yellow rain and thunderstorm warning is in place for the entire country until 5am tomorrow. Met Eireann is forecasting localised downpours, which will lead to spot flooding and dangerous driving conditions. A weather advisory for heavy thundery…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    Mayo Vintner's Chair says new guideline increases workload on publicans

    The new guidelines governing the return of indoor dining are still changing and there’s more to come. That’s the view of the Mayo Vintner’s Chair Alan Gielty, who says he will only operate indoor dining when it rains. The owner of Gielty’s Bar in Dooagh…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    Mayo cafe owner delighted to open his doors to customers today

    Ballina cafe owner John Barrett re-opened his doors to customers this morning for the first time this year. The Post House cafe is located on Casement St in Ballina has been closed since the lockdown just after Christmas, that prevented indoor dining. The…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    30 patients on trolleys awaiting admission today to UHG

    There are 30 patients on trolleys waiting for admission to University Hospital Galway today. That’s the third highest number of patients on trolleys nationally today. There are 24 patients on trolleys awaiting admission at Sligo University Hospital, 20 at…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    Call on council to take over ghost estate in Castlebar for social housing

    Mayo County Council should take over a ghost estate on the outskirts of Castlebar, and finish the houses to accommodate some of the families awaiting social housing - that's the view of Independent Councillor Michael Kilcoyne. He claims there are currently…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    Biopharmaceuticals urge young people to get vaccinated to slow Covid transmission

    The Biopharmaceutical industry's urging younger people to get vaccinated to slow the transmission of coronavirus. New Ipsos MRBI research shows among 18 and 34 year-olds who haven't been given a vaccine, around three quarters will choose to get protected. It…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    Aircoach announces start of new Galway-Dublin service

    Aircoach has announced the start of its brand new Galway to Dublin route. The first service on the new route will be on Thursday. Its buses will travel from Galway city to Dublin Airport and Dublin city centre. It will run ten daily services - allowing…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    Health experts says 'many thousands' of daily Covid-19 cases are likely going forward

    A public health expert believes it's very likely we'll be seeing 'many thousands' of covid cases per day in the coming weeks and months. 1,126 new cases of covid 19 have been confirmed, down from 1,345 the previous day. 123 people are in hospital with the…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    Ministers request more details on Covid hospital admissions

    Ministers are requesting more details on Covid-19 hospital admissions. The Irish Independent reports a letter has been sent to NPHET to understand how many people are brought to hospitals because of Covid-19, rather than testing positive for the virus once…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    MEAI call for roadmap on the return of live entertainment

    Despite indoor dining reopening today, live performances at hospitality venues aren't allowed to return. It's been over 500 days since musicians and entertainers have been allowed to perform in pubs, hotels and restaurants. The Music and Entertainment…
  • Jul 26, 2021

    Indoor hospitality returns for immunised people from today

    Indoor dining in pubs, restaurants and cafes resumes this morning for the first time since December. A maximum of 6 adults will be allowed at one table and wearing face masks will be mandatory while not seated. A change to the Failte Ireland guidelines…
  • Jul 25, 2021

    Over 1,100 new cases of Covid-19 confirmed

    1,126 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed in the Republic. The Department of Health's reported 123 people with the disease are in hospital, while 22 patients are in ICU. Over 5.5 million vaccines have now been administered, with 83 percent of adults now…
  • Jul 25, 2021

    ISAG member says allowing non-essential travel worsens Covid crisis

    International travel should not be happening for non-essential purposes, according to a member of the Independent Scientific Advocacy Group. It resumed here on the 19th of this month to allow people with the EU Digital Covid Certificate to travel in the…
  • Jul 25, 2021

    Businesses fear public backlash with reopening of indoor hospitality

    Publicans and restaurateurs say they're concerned about possible backlash from the public when indoor hospitality re-opens tomorrow. The final regulations to allow indoor sevice are expected to be signed off today by government. Only fully vaccinated people,…
  • Jul 25, 2021

    CO2 monitors to form part of Covid-19 reopening plans in schools

    Thousands of carbon dioxide monitors will be issued to primary and secondary schools ahead of the return of classes in September. The Business Post reports the Department of Education is currently procuring 20 to 35 monitors for every school. The initiative…
  • Jul 25, 2021

    Gardaí have no role in authorising protests during Covid restrictions

    Gardai say they have no role in permitting or authorising protest marches during Covid-19 restrictions. They issued the statement after a large crowd gathered in Dublin City Centre yesterday afternoon for an anti-vaccine rally. Up to 2,000 people took to the…
  • Jul 25, 2021

    Digital Covid Certs could help increase wedding attendances

    Use of the Digital Covid Cert could be extended to wedding parties, under plans to be considered by government this week. Cabinet's to discuss using the system as a way for couples to get between 50 and 100 guests at their nuptials from next month. Up to 100…
  • Jul 25, 2021

    HSE Chief urges public to safely embrace reopening of hospitality

    The head of the HSE says the number of people with Covid-19 in hospital is rising. Paul Reid says there's 123 patients with the disease in hospitals nationwide - that's an increase of 18 on yesterday. 21 people are in ICU. Posting on Twitter, Paul Reid says…
  • Jul 24, 2021

    Over 1,300 new cases of Covid-19 confirmed

    The Department of Health has confirmed 1,345 new cases of Covid-19. There are 105 people in hospital, 21 of whom are in ICU. Daily case numbers may change due to future data review, validation and update. In Northern Ireland, 1,520 positive cases were…
  • Jul 24, 2021

    Ballina GP camps overnight to offer medical assistance on Reek Sunday

    A Ballina GP has begun his ascent of Croagh Patrick to offer medical assistance to climbers, ahead of the traditional Reek Sunday Pilgrimage tomorrow. Dr. Scott Walkin of the Moy View Family Practice in Ballina will assist the reduced emergency service…
  • Jul 24, 2021

    Ballaghaderreen publican to delay indoor reopening until Friday

    Indoor dining will be restricted to parties of six when it reopens this Monday. Under draft guidelines issued by Failte Ireland last night, customers who want to sit inside will have to produce a Covid certificate and proof of ID and give their name and…
  • Jul 24, 2021

    Mayo Ultra Cyclists approaching the end of their latest challenge

    The Mayo Ultra Cyclists are approaching the finishing line of their latest ultra cycling challenge to raise funds for three mental health charities - Mindspace Mayo, Turn2me and Make the Moove, a Macra na Feirme mental health initiative. The group set off…
  • Jul 24, 2021

    Vintners Chief says there is a lot of uncertainty over new indoor service rules

    The Vintners Federation of Ireland has warned that there is a lot of uncertainty in the industry over the new rules which will govern indoor service. In just two days hospitality can re-open for those fully vaccinated or recovered from Covid 19. Customers…
  • Jul 24, 2021

    IPU says huge demand for vaccines across the west

    There is a wide spread of pharmacies across Mayo offering the Pfizer- BioNtech vaccine alongside the Janssen jab. That's according to Tuam pharmacist Darragh O'Loughlin, the General Secretary of the IPU. Pharmacies started vaccinating in mid-June and to date…
  • Jul 24, 2021

    Covid-19 patients in Hospital is on the rise

    The number of Covid-19 patients in hospital is likely to exceed 200 within the next week, according to an infectious diseases consultant. The figure has more than doubled in the past 14 days, and now stands at 106. The highest number of Covid cases in six…
  • Jul 24, 2021

    Galway Minister calls for children to be vaccinated against Covid-19 as soon as possible

    The Disabilities Minister says children should be vaccinated against Covid-19 as soon as possible - with sick kids prioritised. The European Medicines Agency authorised the Moderna jab for 12 to 17s yesterday. They'd already approved the Pfizer vaccine for…
  • Jul 24, 2021

    Heatwave will officially end today

    A high temperature warning for the entire country has just come to end, after being in place for almost four days. The heatwave will officially end today, according to meteorologists. However, Cathal Nolan, from Ireland's Weather Channel, says sunny…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    Almost 1,400 new cases of Covid-19 confirmed

    There are 1,386 new cases of Covid-19 - the highest daily figure in nearly six months. 106 patients are in hospital with the virus - the highest in almost two months - with 22 in intensive care. The deputy chief medical officer is criticising the amount of…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    €8m site expansion announced for Mayo Medtech business

    An €8m site expansion at Charles River Laboratories in Ballina was announced this afternoon. The multi-million euro investment will see the creation of 90 new high-skilled jobs over the next three years at its Carentrila base in the town. The companies…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    Young girl airlifted to hospital from Croagh Patrick

    Mayo Mountain Rescue Team was called to assist a young girl who got into difficulty while descending Croagh Patrick yesterday evening. They received the call at 6:30pm and given the warm weather immediately suspected Heat Exhaustion or possibly Heat Stroke.…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    EMA approves Moderna vaccine for adolescents

    Europe's health regulator's approved the use of the Moderna Covid vaccine for 12 to 17 year olds. The vaccine is already approved for those aged 18 and over. It follows a trial involving more than 3,700 children. The study showed the vaccine produced a…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    People recovered from Covid-19 can apply online for a digital covid cert

    People who have recovered from coronavirus can now apply for their digital covid cert online. This can be done instead of contacting the phone helpline - which has seen callers deal with extremely long delays since Monday. Online applicants will get their…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    Risk of thunderstorms across the West this evening

    A status yellow thunderstorm and rain warning has been issued for this afternoon and evening by Met Eireann. Counties most at risk are Galway, Mayo, Roscommon, Wicklow, Kildare, Laois, Offaly, Tipperary and Clare. Meanwhile, temperatures are expected to…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    Power outage affecting water supply in North Mayo

    Irish Water is currently working with Mayo County Council to restore normal water supply to impacted customers in North Mayo. People supplied in the Ballina Town, Moygownagh, Lacken, Ballycastle, Bonniconlon, Kilfian and Killala areas are affected. It follows…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    Gardai seize €40,000 worth of drugs in North Mayo

    Gardai discovered €40,000 worth of cannabis in a ditch in a rural area of North Mayo yesterday morning. The haul was found in a drugs hide in a rural area near Ballina. Investigations are ongoing and Gardai have thanked the general public for their assistance.
  • Jul 23, 2021

    Multi-Million euro investment for Mayo to be announced later

    A multi-million euro investment for Ballina is set to be announced later today. Charles River Laboratories plans to announce a multi-million euro investment and the creation of a significant number of jobs over the next three years at its facility…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    Two Mayo electoral areas have Covid incidence rates above the national average

    Two electoral areas of Mayo have recorded Covid-19 incidence rates above the national average during the 14-day period from July 6th to 19th. Claremorris had 81 new cases during the two weeks in question while Westport registered 62. The Ballina area recorded…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    Current heatwave is expected to officially end tomorrow

    The current heatwave is expected to officially end tomorrow, but temperatures to remain very warm over the weekend. A status orange warning remains in place in six counties until 9am, while a similar yellow alert will run until tomorrow. Mercury could hit…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    Final meetings to agree the legal rules for indoor dining will take place this morning

    Failte Ireland and government officials are meeting this morning to finalise guidelines for the resumption of indoor dining. The attorney-general is also attending, and it's expected they'll be published later today. It comes as pubs and restaurants continue…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    €350,000 in funding allocated to Ballintubber Abbey

    €350,000 has been allocated to Ballintubber Abbey. The funding will allow for works on the reconstruction of the East Wing of the Abbey and build on the over 800 years of history this landmark heritage location. Fine Gael Spokesperson on Tourism and Sport,…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    HSE expects Covid cases to reach 2,000 a day in the next week

    The HSE says it expects Covid-19 cases to reach 2,000 a day in the next week to 10 days. 1,189 were confirmed yesterday - and Philip Nolan, from NPHET, says the current situation is 'dangerous' and 'very concerning'. He says cases are growing at 6 per cent a…
  • Jul 23, 2021

    Galway RNLI rescue fishing vessel yesterday evening

    Galway RNLI Lifeboat launched yesterday evening to assist the crew of a 20 foot half decker which got into difficulty off Barna. The pleasure/fishing vessel had left Galway Docks earlier in the evening when it experienced mechanical issues and started…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Funding of almost €340,000 for Mayo under Connected Hubs Scheme

    Funding of over €337,000 has been announced today for Co Mayo under the Connected Hubs Scheme. 5 projects in the county will benefit, enabling them to enhance and add capacity to their remote working infrastructure. Remote working has become a reality for…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Enniscoe House enter partnership with the NPWS

    A new partnership has been announced between Enniscoe House near Crossmolina and the National Parks & Wildlife Service. Following a visit to Enniscoe House - which dates back to the 1700's and is known as "the last Great House of North Mayo" - Minister of…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Almost 1,200 new Covid-19 cases confirmed

    There are 1,189 new cases of Covid-19. 95 patients are in hospital with the virus, down one from yesterday, with 23 in intensive care. The deputy chief medical officer says there's been a very sharp increase in travel-related cases recently. Dr Ronan Glynn…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Mayo County Council issues statement on homes deemed ineligible for pyrite redress

    20 homeowners in the Ballina area have been told they are not eligible for the pyrite and mica grant scheme. They received letters from the county council yesterday confirming the move. There are currently discussions underway on aspects of the scheme to…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Mayo County Council staff clear concrete spillage on the N5

    Gardai and Mayo County Council staff were called to the scene of a concrete spillage near Swinford this afternoon. A small concrete spillage occurred between the Kilbride and the Kilkelly junction on the n5. The council had to react quickly to clear it during…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Sligo Gardaí and emergency services called to scene of a car on fire

    Gardaí and emergency services were called to the scene of a car on fire on a road near Lough Talt this afternoon. Members of Ballymote Garda Station were alerted to the blaze at approximately 1:10pm and made their way to the location. The vehicle had caught…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    "Golfgate" court cases adjourned until late October

    Court cases arising out of what has been called "Golfgate" have been adjourned until late October. Independent Galway TD Noel Grealish and former Fianna Fáil Senator Donie Cassidy were served with summonses in relation to an alleged breach of Covid-19 laws.…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Official guidelines for reopening indoor dining expected later today

    The official guidelines for indoor dining are expected to be published later today. The recommendations from Failte Ireland are expected to say there will be no time limits in bars and restaurants, and closing time will be 11.30pm. Pub and restaurant owners…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    High temperature warning extended to Saturday morning

    The status yellow high temperature warning has been extended to run until Saturday morning. It was due to run until tomorrow, but has now been extended until 9am Saturday morning, with Met Eireann warning that high temperatures will continue to reach 27 to 30…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Gardai warn of fraudulent text messages claiming to be from Permanent TSB

    Gardaí have issued a warning after a number of people received text messages claiming to be from Permanent TSB advising of unusual online activity, or a suspicious log-in attempt on their account. The messages contain a link, which will bring customers to a…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Westport restaurant makes TripAdvisor's list of Best Fine Dining Restaurants

    A Westport restaurant has been named as one of TripAdvisor's Ten Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Ireland. An Port Mór comes in at number 9 on the prestigious list. Chef Frankie Mallon opened An Port Mór in Westport in 2009, having worked in top restaurants in…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Two people drown in separate incidents in Leitrim and Cavan

    A man in his 70s has died, following a diving accident in Lough Allen, County Leitrim. The man was snorkelling at Spencer Harbour in Drumkeeran at 9pm last night when he failed to return. His body was recovered a short time later by local emergency services.…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Heatwave continues, after highest temperature of the year recorded in Roscommon yesterday

    The hot weather conditions will continue today with temperatures again expected to top 30 degrees in parts, with cooler conditions forecast over the weekend. Yesterday was the warmest day of the year so far, with a high of 30.8 degrees recorded at Mount…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Co Galway publican calls for urgent publication of guidelines ahead of Monday's reopening

    The Government says guidelines on how indoor hospitality will operate for people who are vaccinated against Covid-19 or who have recovered from the virus are now well advanced and will be published shortly. It's understood that under the guidelines there will…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Galway, Roscommon and Sligo all have Covid-19 rates higher than national average

    The five-day moving average of Covid-19 cases has increased by over 300 per cent over the past month. Deputy chief medical officer, Ronan Glynn, says it has risen from 300 to 1,223 during that period. Yesterday evening 1,378 new cases were reported - the…
  • Jul 22, 2021

    Four people due in court in Clifden this morning following Golfgate

    Two politicians and two hoteliers are due to appear before a court in Clifden this morning in connection with the alleged breach of Covid-19 regulations. They received summonses earlier this year, after the DPP decided to bring charges arising from an…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Almost 1,400 new cases of Covid-19 confirmed

    There have been 1,378 new cases of Covid-19 notified to the Department of Health. The number of people in hospital who have tested positive for coronavirus is 96 - seven more than yesterday. Of these, 22 are in ICU, a rise of one over the past 24 hours. The…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Tánaiste urges couples to plan for 50 person limit on August weddings

    The Tánaiste says couples getting married in August should plan on the basis of a 50 person limit at their wedding. Numbers allowed at the ceremonies are currently restricted to 50 people. But it had been hoped this would be expanded to 100 from next month.…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    East Mayo wastewater treatment plants officially opened

    Irish Water and Mayo County Council today marked the official opening of Killala, Foxford and Charlestown Wastewater Treatment Plants. It follows a €19m investment which has ended the discharge of raw sewage into the environment in the area. The project…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Highest temperature of the year recorded in Roscommon

    Met Eireann says the highest temperature of the year so far has been recorded. The 30.1 degree celcius mark has been reached at Mount Dillon in County Roscommon. The readings were taken at 3pm this afternoon.
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Numbers claiming PUP at lowest level since March 2020

    The number of people on the Pandemic Unemployment Payment has now reached its lowest level since March 2020. Just over 202,000 people received the payment this week, which is 9,700 fewer than last week. Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys says she…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Saolta Hospital Group warns Emergency Departments are extremely busy

    The Saolta Hospital Group’s Emergency Departments are extremely busy today. The hospital group says they are experiencing high levels of attendance and there is increased pressure on bed availability. The group is asking the public to consider alternative…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Ballina restaurateur concerned about "policing" Digital Covid certs for indoor dining

    Pubs and restaurants are set to welcome back customers indoors from next Monday. Indoor hospitality will resume for people who are fully vaccinated, without time limits on tables. Closing time will remain at 11.30, and when children are present, a 2-metre…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    61 complaints made about lawyers in Mayo last year

    61 complaints were made about lawyers in Mayo last year, according to the Legal Services Regulatory Authority. This is the first time the legal services watchdog has provided a county-by-county breakdown of complaints. It shows that over 1400 complaints were…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Slight decrease in number of Covid-positive patients at Mayo University Hospital

    The Taoiseach is appealing to the public to keep following Covid-19 guidelines, no matter how tired people are of the pandemic. The Delta variant has led to an 88 per cent increase in cases here over the past week - with a rise in every county. 1,110 new…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Minister of State Peter Burke visiting Mayo today

    The Minister of State for Local Government & Planning Peter Burke will be visiting Co Mayo today for a number of engagements in Killala, Ballina, Swinford and Castlebar. The Minister will start in Killala this morning at 10am, where he will officially open…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Approval granted for €18.4 million extension to ED at Mayo University Hospital

    Formal approval has been granted for an €18.4 million extension to the Emergency Department at Mayo University Hospital. The extension was first announced several years ago, to provide additional beds in the Emergency Department - particularly as attendances…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Over 18's can now register for Pfizer or Moderna vaccine

    Anyone over 18 can register for a Pfizer or Moderna Covid-19 vaccine from today. The HSE's online portal is now open for all adults - allowing them to sign up for an mRNA jab. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly says this is happening because the vaccination…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Growing rates of Covid-19 in every county

    The incidence rate of Covid-19 has increased in every county over the past week. Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn says there have been 7,700 cases in the past seven days - up 88 per cent on the previous week. Donegal has the highest 14-day…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Cabinet expected to sign off on guidelines for reopening indoor dining

    Cabinet ministers are today expected to sign off on guidelines for the resumption of indoor dining today. It will allow pubs and restaurants to serve indoors from next Monday - as long as the President signs off on the legislation. They'll have to close at…
  • Jul 21, 2021

    Two people rescued after jet ski overturned in Blacksod Bay

    The Ballyglass RNLI inshore lifeboat was requested to launch yesterday afternoon by the Irish Coast Guard to go to the assistance of 2 people on a jet ski in difficulty between Doolough and Claggan in Blacksod Bay. The volunteer lifeboat crew launched the…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    1,110 new cases of Covid-19 confirmed this evening

    1,110 new cases of covid-19 are being reported this evening. 89 people with the virus are now in hospital, with 21 of those patients in ICU. Positivity rates of up to 25 per cent are now being reported at some swabbing sites.
  • Jul 20, 2021

    Newport among hottest spots again today

    Met Eireann says temperatures in Newport, Co Mayo have exceeded 28 degrees today, and high temperatures will continue for the rest of the week. The latest data from 3pm this afternoon shows Mount Dillon in Roscommon was the hottest spot nationally at 29…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    AIB to close Galway branch later this year

    AIB is to close 15 of its branches this year - including one in Galway. The AIB branch on Newcastle Road in Galway is closing in December, and it services will be merged with Lynch's Castle in the city. The vast majority of the closures are in Dublin and…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    €250,000 allocated for outdoor performance space in Ballina

    A quarter of a million euro has been announced to develop and outdoor performance space in Ballina. The €250,000 grant has been allocated under the Government's Outdoor Public Space Scheme, and will see an outdoor performance space being developed on Barrett…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    €76,000 worth of suspected cannabis herb seized in search of house in Galway city

    Gardaí in Galway have seized €76,000 worth of suspected cannabis herb and more than €7,000 in cash following the search of a house in Galway overnight. At approximately 10.30pm last night, Gardaí attached to the Galway Divisional Drugs Unit conducted a search…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    HSE advice on preventing heat stroke, as temperatures set to hit 30 degrees

    High temperatures will continue for the rest of the week, as a status yellow weather warning has come into effect since 1pm for the entire country. The weather alert remains in place until Friday morning, with Met Eireann forecasting daytime highs of 27 to 30…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    Dramatic rise in Covid-19 cases across Mayo & Galway

    The HSE is reporting a dramatic increase in the number of Covid-19 cases across the West over the past 5 days. Case numbers have doubled in Co Mayo, and tripled in Galway - with young adults being particularly hit by infection - and this age group remains…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    LISTEN: Mayo University Hospital manager on dealing with the Covid outbreak

    The manager at Mayo University Hospital Catherin Donohoe says the hospital is under a lot of pressure today. Mayo University Hospital remains the highest in the country when it comes to covid-19 patients in hospital. Nationally there are 101 patients with the…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    Status yellow warning issued as temperatures soar

    A status yellow high temperature will come into effect across the country from lunchtime today, until Friday. Met Eireann say daytime temperatures will reach as high as 30 degrees, while at night it could be as high as 20 degrees. The alert will come into…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    Work began yesterday on the construction of a new €22 million residential care unit in Tuam

    Work began yesterday on the construction of a new €22 million residential care unit in Tuam. The new high-dependency unit is being built on the site of the Old Grove Hospital in Tuam, and is expected to be completed in 2023. Tuam-based Councillor Donagh…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    An Post has confirmed withdrawal of service at Castlebar Delivery Unit

    An Post has confirmed that the Castlebar Delivery Unit is no longer providing a service for people who wish to buy a stamp or post a parcel - they're now being directed to the main Post Office in the town instead. While the main Post Office in Castlebar is…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    Country's 14-day incidence rate of Covid-19 at it's highest since February

    The country's 14-day incidence rate of Covid-19 cases is now at it's highest point since the end of February. It now stands at 231 cases per 100,000 people, while the five-day moving average of cases has increased by more than 98 percent in a week. Last night…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    Talks today on reopening indoor dining for the fully vaccinated

    The Restaurants Association of Ireland will meet members of Government later over the proposal for the reopening of indoor dining. A decision from Ministers is expected tomorrow, with Monday the target for restaurants and pubs to be allowed welcome back…
  • Jul 20, 2021

    Another very hot day in store

    The current spell of weather could be officially classed as a heatwave later, as temperatures are expected to rise to 29 degrees today. For a heatwave to be called the temperature must be five degrees above average for five days in a row. Tomorrow, the…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    1,071 new cases of Covid-19 this evening

    1,071 new cases of Covid 19 have been confirmed this evening. The Department of Health says 101 patients are in hospital with the virus, with 20 of those in ICU. Dr Tony Holohan says our 14-day incidence rate is now the highest it's been since February 24th…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    Minister Harris confident indoor dining will reopen next week

    There's been no new public health advice to suggest the re-opening of indoor dining should be delayed, according to Minister Simon Harris. Cabinet Ministers will make a final decision on the issue at a meeting on Wednesday. There has been calls from People…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    Mayo Senator says out of date smear tests "very disappointing"

    Mayo Sn Around 200 women will have to undergo a repeat smear test because their results have gone out of date. The HSE says they expired because of Covid-19 restrictions and a huge demand on the CervicalCheck service in the first half of this year. The women…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    Visiting restrictions in some areas of MUH due to Covid-19 outbreak

    Visiting restrictions are in place in certain areas of Mayo University Hospital due to an outbreak of Covid-19 currently in the hospital. There are currently 16 patients with Covid being treated at the Castlebar hospital - the highest figure nationally. CEO…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    Newport was the country's hottest spot today at 28 degrees

    Newport in Co Mayo and Oak Park in Carlow were the hottest spots in Ireland today, with temperatures of 28 degrees, according to Met Eireann. The weather stations in Athenry, Gurteen and Mount Dillon in Roscommon all registered 27 degrees this afternoon, and…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    New online hub on consent launched at NUI Galway

    A new online learning hub on consent for the third-level sector has been announced by Galway-based Minister Hildegarde Naughton and the Minister for Higher Education Simon Harris. The hub is being developed in partnership with NUI Galway and will be available…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    Do Not Swim notice removed from Ross beach, Killala

    Ross beach in Killala has reopened to swimmers. Mayo County Council says the temporary Do Not Swim notice in place at Ross beach has been removed this afternoon, following satisfactory results from a water sample taken on Saturday. Head of Environment at Mayo…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    MEP Maria Walsh to take part in Budapest Pride march next weekend

    Midlands-Northwest MEP Maria Walsh will travel to Hungary this week to take part in Budapest pride. The Fine Gael MEP has been outspoken about the anti-LGBTI+ law adaptations in Hungary since she took office in the European Parliament two years ago. While in…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    Good weather to continue until Friday, says Met Eireann

    Met Eireann says the current warm weather will continue until Friday, with day time temperatures into the high 20's, and very humid at night with temperatures staying in the mid to high teens. Forecaster Emer Flood has been telling Midwest News / Paula that…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    Five people rescued from cruiser that caught fire off Portumna

    Five people were rescued from a cruiser that caught fire yesterday off Portumna. The Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat was launched at about 12.15 yesterday afternoon to assist those on board the 38ft cruiser on fire by Castle Harbour, Portumna, at the most northern…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    Castlebar Councillor frustrated at new litter bin vandalised along the river walkway in the town

    A Castlebar Councillor has voiced his anger and disappointment at a newly installed litter bin along the river walkway in the town which was vandalised over the weekend. Cllr. Ger Deere says under the bridge along the river walkway has experienced a serious…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    Councillors anxious to see the Lough Lannagh Sports Project in Castlebar progress

    Mayo County Council's Chief Executive Kevin Kelly is meeting with Mayo GAA chiefs this week, to discuss concerns over the delay in the proposed Centre of Excellence in Castlebar. Almost three years ago, the GAA announced plans for a Centre of Excellence,…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    Minister Simon Harris to visit Mayo today

    Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris will visit GMIT Mayo today. Minister Harris will be welcomed to the campus in Castlebar by the President Dr Orla Flynn and the new Head of School of Health Science,…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    D-Day for Ireland West Airport Knock as restrictions on non-essential international travel ease

    Airlines, airports and the tourism industry are preparing for an uptick in business from this morning as travel restrictions into and out of the country are eased. From today, Ireland joins the rest of the EU in implementing the Digital Covid Certificate.…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    Hottest day so far this year recorded in Co. Galway

    Temperatures could reach as high as 30 degrees in places this week as a national advisory for warm weather remains in place. 29.5 degrees was recorded in Athenry in Galway on Saturday afternoon, making it the hottest day of the year so far. Met Eireann's high…
  • Jul 19, 2021

    Mayo University Hospital remains the highest hospital with covid cases in the country

    The country's five-day moving average of Covid-19 cases has risen by 89 percent in the past week. It's grown to 1,101 after 1,179 new cases were confirmed by the Department of Health yesterday. 91 people are being treated in hospital, while 22 patients were…
  • Jul 18, 2021

    Nearly 1200 new Covid-19 cases confirmed today

    The Department of Health has confirmed 1179 new cases of Covid-19. There are now 91 people being treated for the illness in hospital, an increase of 13 in the past 24 hours. The number of patients in intensive care stands at 22, unchanged on yesterday's…
  • Jul 18, 2021

    Road to popular Achill beach closed off to traffic

    Due to severe traffic congestion in Achill today Gardai are closing off the road to Keem Bay. Motorists are asked to avoid travelling to the popular beach this afternoon.
  • Jul 18, 2021

    VFI calling for clarity on indoor dining guidelines

    The Vintners Federation of Ireland says they still don't know exactly how people can prove their vaccination status in order to dine indoors. It calling on the government to confirm as early as possible the exact reopening date, which is expected to be July…
  • Jul 18, 2021

    HSE Chief warns rise in cases could put hospitals under pressure

    The head of the HSE has warned hospital numbers could increase at a "significant pace very quickly" as Covid-19 cases rise. There were 1,377 new infections confirmed yesterday - the highest daily figure since the end of January. The positivity rate has fallen…
  • Jul 18, 2021

    Warm weather set to continue until Friday

    Met Eireann's issued a High Temperature Advisory with the warm weather set to continue into next week. The advisory comes into effect from midday today and is valid until midday on Friday. Temperatures reached 29.5 degrees in Athenry, Co Galway yesterday,…
  • Jul 17, 2021

    Nearly 1400 Covid-19 cases confirmed this evening

    Health officials have confirmed 1,377 new cases of Covid-19 here. It's the highest figure recorded in over five months. There are 78 people currently in hospital with the virus. While 22 patients are in ICU, an increase of 6 on the same day last week.
  • Jul 17, 2021

    Minister Simon Harris to visit GMIT Mayo campus on Monday

    The Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris will visit GMIT Mayo on Monday. That news has been confirmed today by the President of GMIT, Dr Orla Flynn. Minister Harris will be welcomed to the campus in…
  • Jul 17, 2021

    Mayo Fianna Fail Senator welcomes recommendations made in committees interim report on impacts of Brexit

    A Mayo Fianna Fáil Senator has welcomed the recommendations made in the Committee’s interim report on the impacts of Brexit. The Committee was established following a proposal by Lisa Chambers to the Seanad to assess the outcome of the Brexit negotiations and…
  • Jul 17, 2021

    Man in his 30's and a baby taken to hospital following collision on the N5

    Gardaí are currently at scene of a two vehicle collision that occurred on the N5, Castlebar to Wesport Road shortly after 2pm this afternoon. A man in his thirties and a baby has been taken to hospital. Investigations are ongoing.
  • Jul 17, 2021

    Roscommon deputy says Ireland is in danger of not having enough electricity to power the country going forward

    Ireland is in danger of not having enough electricity to power the country going forward. That's the warning from Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice who says this could see some large companies deciding to pull out of this country, if they don't have a secure…
  • Jul 17, 2021

    Man missing from Castlebar has been located safe and well

    The 62 year-old man who was missing from his home in Castlebar, has been located safe and well. Gardai and the family have thanked the public and the media for their assistance in this matter.
  • Jul 17, 2021

    Mayo TD accuses Government of failing apprentices as the number waiting to access off-the-job training passes 10,000

    A Mayo TD has accused the government of failing apprentices as the number waiting to access off-the-job training passes 10,000. Sinn Féin spokesperson on Further and Higher Education, Rose Conway-Walsh says it is truly alarming that apprenticeship waiting…
  • Jul 17, 2021

    Gardai seeking help in tracing whereabouts of missing Mayo man

    Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 62-year-old Desmond McGowan, who is missing from his home in Castlebar, Co. Mayo since yesterday afternoon. Desmond is 5’ 7” in height and has a slight build. He has dark, greying hair…
  • Jul 17, 2021

    Mayo University Hospital has the highest number of Covid-19 cases in the country

    Mayo University Hospital has the highest number of Covid-19 cases in the country. There are 12 patients with Covid-19 at the Castlebar based hospital. That's according to the latest report compiled by the HSE at the centre at 8 p.m. yesterday. There are four…
  • Jul 17, 2021

    Over three quarter of adults have now received their first vaccine

    Over three quarters of adults have now received a first dose of a Covid-19 vaccine. 63 per cent of adults are fully vaccinated and over 5.1 million doses have been administered. HSE boss Paul Reid says the number of patients in hospital and ICU is "holding…
  • Jul 17, 2021

    HSE urging caution as case numbers rise

    The HSE says it's noticing a rise in large Covid-19 outbreaks across the country as the Delta variant spreads. It comes after 1,173 new cases were reported yesterday - the highest daily figure in over 5 months. Health officials are warning of large increases…
  • Jul 17, 2021

    The West enjoying Mediterranean like conditions

    The country's enjoying Mediterranean like conditions this weekend with temperatures soaring into the late twenties. Yesterday was the hottest day of the year so far with Mount Dillon in Roscommon reached 27.1C. Met Éireann said high pressure will result in…
  • Jul 17, 2021

    Castlebar Gardai looking for public's assistance in tracing missing man

    Castlebar Gardai are looking for the public’s assistance in locating a man who was last seen at 12:30 yesterday. Gardai are interested in locating the car he is driving which is a grey Honda HRV 161-MO-2889. Anyone who may have spotted this car is asked to…
  • Jul 17, 2021

    Body found in River Liffey in search for missing Sligo teenager

    The body of a teenager missing from Sligo since Tuesday has been recovered from the River Liffey in Dublin. The Garda press office confirmed the body of 16-year-old Hazhar Hashemi had been recovered from the Liffey yesterday. The teenager had been missing…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Achill Island Coast Guard assist casualty who got into difficulty this evening

    Achill Island Coast Guard assisted a casualty who slipped and found themselves in difficulty in a bog pool in an isolated part of the island this evening. On arrival the team were able to provide casualty care, monitor the situation and escort the faller to a…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Two people taken to hospital following collision in South Mayo

    Two people were taken to hospital today following a two vehicle collision in Claremorris. Gardaí attended the collision involving a car and a van that occurred at Claremount, Calremorris shorlty after 4pm this afternoon. A male in his 30s was taken to Galway…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Almost 1200 cases of Covid-19 confirmed this evening

    1,173 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed today - the highest figure in nearly five and a half months. 79 patients are in hospital with the virus, 23 of whom are in ICU. The chief medical officer, Tony Holohan, says half of today's cases are among 19 to…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Gardai renew appeal following serious assault in Tuam last weekend

    Gardaí in Tuam are renewing their appeal for information in relation to the investigation of a serious assault that occurred in the early hours of Sunday July 11th, at Foster Place in Tuam, Co. Galway. A man, aged in his 40s, was assaulted at approximately…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Pilot site for rapid Covid-19 testing to be located in North Mayo

    The MSLETB Training Centre in Ballina has been confirmed as the site for a new pilot antigen testing by the HSE. A new pilot process has been established to help evaluate the use of rapid antigen diagnostic tests (RADT) in identifying COVID-19 the further and…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    MD at Ireland West Airport welcomes funding of over €1.9 Million

    The Managing Director at Ireland West Airport Knock has welcomed today’s funding of over €1.9 million euro from Government. The funding will enable Ireland West Airport Knock to recover some of the losses that it has incurred as a result of covid 19. The…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Do not swim notice removed from Bertra Beach

    Mayo County Council wishes to advise the public that the temporary DO NO SWIM notice in place at Bertra Beach has been removed this afternoon, following receipt of satisfactory results from a water sample taken on Wednesday. Mr. Martin Keating, Head of…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Mayo Gardai warn of text scam targeting Bank of Ireland customers

    Gardai in Mayo are warning of a new sophisticated text scam affecting Bank of Ireland Customers. A number of people have been caught out by a text coming directly from Back of Ireland telling you that a payment was made on another device and if it wasn’t you…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Met Eireann predicting warmest weekend of the year

    The country is set to enjoy the warmest temperatures of the year so far this weekend. Met Eireann is forecasting up to 27 degrees on Saturday and Sunday. Tomorrow is set to be very warm and dry in most places with good sunshine. Alan O'Reilly from Carlow…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Significant funding boost for Ireland West Airport Knock

    23 million euro has been given to support five airports nationally. Ireland West Airport Knock, Dublin, Cork, Shannon, Donegal and Kerry are all benefitting, with the split being decided through passenger numbers in 2019. Knock airport has received the second…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Councillor says Mayo University Hospital Covid outbreak isn't helped by staff shortages

    Mayo University Hospital have confirmed that they are dealing with a Covid-19 outbreak at the hospital. In a statement issued by the Saolta Hospital Group yesterday evening in accordance with the Health Protection Surveillance Centre guidelines, an Outbreak…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Gardai seek public help in finding missing Galway man

    Gardaí are seeking the public's help in tracing the whereabouts of a missing man in Galway. 41 year-old John Sheehan, is reported missing from the Renmore area of Galway, since last Monday July 12th. He is described as being 5ft 9 inches in height and having…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    25 to 29 year olds can register for a vaccine from today

    25 to 29 year olds can register for a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine from today. The HSE's portal is now open to the cohort, however people in this age group can still register with a pharmacy for a Janssen vaccine. Registration can be done online or over the…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Man arrested in Sligo following road traffic collision

    Gardaí arrested a man following an incident of drink driving which resulted in a traffic collision that occurred at approximately 3:25pm yesterday afternoon, in the Cloonamahon area of Collooney, Co Sligo. Two vehicles were involved in this collision. No…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Legislation to allow indoor hospitality reopen will go to its final stage later today

    Legislation to allow indoor hospitality reopen will go to its final stage in the Oireachtas later. The Seanad will consider the Health Bill which, if passed, would then go to the President to be signed into law. Yesterday the Tanaiste revealed July 26th as…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Number of hospital patients with Covid-19 has increased by almost a third in the past week

    The number of hospital patients with Covid-19 has increased by almost a third in the past week. 994 new cases were announced by the Department of Health last night, with 80 people in hospital and 22 in ICU. On Monday, international travel will open for people…
  • Jul 16, 2021

    Gardai issue appeal for missing teenager in Sligo

    Gardai are seeking the public's help in tracing a missing teenage boy in Sligo. 16 year-old Hazhar Hashemi is missing from Drumcliff since Tuesday and was carrying a navy bag. He is described as 6 foot tall, with short brown hair and brown eyes and he was…
  • Jul 15, 2021

    Covid-19 outbreak at Mayo University Hospital

    Mayo University Hospital have this evening confirmed that they are dealing with a Covid-19 outbreak at the hospital. In a statement issued by the Saolta Hospital Group in accordance with the Health Protection Surveillance Centre guidelines, an Outbreak…
  • Jul 15, 2021

    Almost one thousand new Covid-19 cases

    The head of the HSE says the Delta variant is spreading faster than expected. It comes as a further 994 Covid-19 cases have been confirmed, the highest since February 13th. There are 80 people in hospital with the virus, and 22 in ICU. Paul Reid says…
  • Jul 15, 2021

    122 new cases of Covid-19 in Mayo over the past week

    Covid-19 case numbers are growing by more than 3 percent each day, while the virus' reproduction number is above one. Yesterday, the Department of Health announced 783 new cases - the highest figure in five months - and the Delta variant now accounts for 80%…
  • Jul 15, 2021

    Do Not Swim notice in place at second Mayo beach

    Swimming is being banned at a second Mayo beach, due to contamination of the bathing water. A temporary Do Not Swim notice has been put in place at Ross Beach, Killala, following an elevated enterococci bacteria in a water sample taken on Monday. The water…
  • Jul 15, 2021

    Deputy Alan Dillon says he was paired for last night's Dáil vote

    The Dáil has passed the legislation allowing indoor dining for fully vaccinated people or those who've recovered from Covid-19. The Bill was voted through by 74 votes to 68 last night. It's reported that Mayo TDs Michael Ring and Alan Dillon were among a…
  • Jul 15, 2021

    Temporary accommodation solutions needed for families impacted by pyrite

    Mayo and Donegal County Councils will have to come up with a temporary accommodation solution for people who will have to leave their homes due to pyrite damage, and will need somewhere to live while their homes are being rebuilt. That's according to the…
  • Jul 15, 2021

    Met Eireann predicts warm and sunny weekend across the West

    Dry, warm and sunny - that's what we can expect weather-wise for the weekend, according to Met Eireann. Mount Dillon in Co Roscommon recorded the highest temperature nationally yesterday, along with Dublin's Phoenix Park - both registering 23 degrees celsius.…
  • Jul 15, 2021

    HSE boss concerned about spread of Delta variant here when restrictions ease in UK

    The Head of the HSE has said he expects Covid case numbers to continue to rise in the immediate future. It comes as the Department of Health confirmed 783 new infections yesterday, and the Delta variant now accounts for 80% of the cases reported here. CEO…
  • Jul 15, 2021

    Dáil passes legislation on indoor dining, while parents advised to eat outdoors with children

    The Dáil has passed the legislation allowing indoor dining for fully vaccinated people or those who've recovered from Covid, and the Bill will now go to the Seanad. It was voted through by 74 votes to 68 last night. It's emerged that Mayo TDs Michael Ring and…
  • Jul 15, 2021

    Cheapest house prices nationally in Castlerea and Ballyhaunis

    The towns of Castlerea and Ballyhaunis had the cheapest median house prices in the year up to May. New figures from the CSO show that residential property prices increased by 5.5% nationally in the 12 months to May - with a 6.2% jump in the price of houses…
  • Jul 14, 2021

    Highest number of Covid-19 cases in nearly five months recorded

    The country's highest number of Covid-19 cases in nearly five months has been reported today.There are 783 new cases - the highest since February 20th.There are 73 Covid patients in hospital, with 20 in intensive care.Professor Philip Nolan, who chairs…
  • Jul 14, 2021

    Protest in Dublin today over backlog in forestry licences

    Farmers from across the region have travelled to Dublin today to take part in an IFA demonstration highlighting the crisis in the forestry sector, and the need for emergency legislation to reform the licence system. There are currently almost 6,000 forest…
  • Jul 14, 2021

    People urged to walk or run 5k in aid of Erris defibrillators

    A fundraising campaign has been launched in Erris, to raise money to maintain the dedibrillators in the region. Erris Heartbeat Defibrillator has 36 defibs across the Erris region, and needs to raise €2,000 urgently to maintain them, and replace batteries.…
  • Jul 14, 2021

    Connacht GAA secretary explains decision to move Connacht final to Croke Park

    There's mixed reaction to the GAA's decision to move the Connacht senior football final to Croke Park. Connacht GAA announced last night that the Mayo V Galway provincial final would be moved to the Dublin stadium, to avail of the extra capacity. It's…
  • Jul 14, 2021

    Parents urged to check child car seats before going on staycation

    With families heading off on staycations over the coming days and weeks, the Mayo Road Safety Office is urging parents to carry out some simple car seat checks before you leave. Four out of five child car seats in Ireland are not fitted correctly, according…
  • Jul 14, 2021

    Mayo Senator brings forward new legislation on stalking

    Mayo Senator Lisa Chambers has brought forward new legislation, that would make stalking an offence. The Fianna Fail Senator has worked on the legislation with two victims of stalking - Sligo woman Eve McDowell and Una Ring from Cork, and says their…
  • Jul 14, 2021

    Westport Councillor disappointed that swimming not allowed at Bertra beach

    A temporary Do Not Swim notice has been put in place at Bertra beach near Westport. People are being urged not to swim at the beach, following the detection of E.Coli in a water sample taken on Monday. Mayo County Council says the bathing water at Bertra will…
  • Jul 14, 2021

    EPA report shows majority of Mayo rivers have high or good water quality

    A new report from the EPA shows the majority of rivers in Co Mayo have high, or good quality water. However, the Environmental Protection Agency has warned that there's an urgent need to curb nitrogen pollution in Ireland's surface and ground waters, which…
  • Jul 14, 2021

    Mayo's 14-day rate of Covid-19 has more than doubled in the past week

    589 new cases of Covid-19 were confirmed yesterday evening. 62 patients are currently in hospital with the disease, of which 17 patients are in ICU. Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Ronan Glynn says the delta variant now accounts for 80 percent of cases…
  • Jul 13, 2021

    Over 580 new cases of Covid-19 confirmed

    589 new cases of covid have been confirmed.62 patients are in hospital with the disease of which 17 are in ICU.Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Ronan Glynn says the delta variant accounts for 80 percent of cases reported here and is a challenge that is facing…
  • Jul 13, 2021

    Do Not Swim notice put in place at Bertra Beach, Westport

    A temporary Do Not Swim notice has been put in place at Bertra beach near Westport. People are being urged not to swim at the beach, following the detection of E.Coli in a water sample taken yesterday. Mayo County Council says the bathing water at Bertra will…
  • Jul 13, 2021

    Ryanair announces new Winter service between Ireland West Airport Knock and Bergamo, Milan

    Ryanair is to operate a new winter service between Ireland West Airport Knock and Bergamo in Italy. Bergamo is near the city of Milan - Italy's fashion capital. The new service will operate twice per week, with flights on Thursdays and Sundays throughout the…
  • Jul 13, 2021

    Castlebar's Mark Mellett to retire as Chief of Staff of Defence Forces later this year

    Castlebar native Mark Mellett is to retire as Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces in September. Vice Admiral Mellett took up the top post in September 2015. He first joined the Irish Naval Service in 1976 and worked his way up the ranks to the position of…
  • Jul 13, 2021

    62 patients in hospital with Covid-19

    62 Covid patients are in hospital today - a drop of 2 from yesterday - with 16 of these patients in intensive care. The HSE's chief executive, Paul Reid, says Covid-19 cases, testing and positivity rates are all increasing. Mr Reid is asking people to take…
  • Jul 13, 2021

    38 patients on trolleys today at UHG

    It's another busy day in the Emergency Department at University Hospital Galway. There are 38 patients on trolleys at the hospital today, according to the latest trolley figures from the Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation. The Galway hospital has the…
  • Jul 13, 2021

    Restrictions on nursing home visits will be eased from next week

    Restrictions on nursing home visits are to be eased from next Monday. New guidance from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre says that, from 19th July, routine visits will not need to be scheduled in advance, and a list of nominated visitors will no…
  • Jul 13, 2021

    Mayo Councillors seek review of social housing income thresholds

    Mayo County Councillors are to write to the Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien, calling for the income thresholds for council or social housing to be revised. At present, a couple with two children earning over €27,500 do not qualify for local authority…
  • Jul 13, 2021

    Redress scheme for Mother & Baby Home survivors to be brought to Cabinet within weeks

    The Children's Minister Roderic O'Gorman hopes to bring details of a redress scheme for Mother and Baby Home survivors to Cabinet in the next two weeks. The Minister is also working on the terms of an independent review of the evidence given to the…
  • Jul 13, 2021

    Sligo continues to have second-highest 14-day virus rate nationally

    Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn says the proportion of new Covid-19 cases that are due to the Delta variant has increased rapidly over the last four weeks - and is now accounting for about 70% of cases or more. Over the past fortnight, Ireland’s…
  • Jul 13, 2021

    Ministers meet today to confirm reopening date for indoor dining

    More than 2 million people who are fully vaccinated will be able to dine indoors as early as next week. People who've recovered from Covid-19 will also be able to enter pubs, cafes and restaurants, under new laws agreed last night. Children who're aren't…
  • Jul 12, 2021

    600 new cases of Covid-19 confirmed

    600 cases of Covid 19 have been confirmed today.64 patients are in hospital with the virus, of which 16 are in ICU.Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan says tomorrow marks 500 days since the first case of Covid was reported in Ireland.He added we have come a…
  • Jul 12, 2021

    Number of spectators allowed to Connacht final not yet decided says Minister

    After their comprehensive win over Leitrim yesterday, Mayo are through to the Connacht senior football final the weekend after next when they will take on Galway in MacHale Park. The number of fans who will be allowed into the Castlebar stadium to watch the…
  • Jul 12, 2021

    Formal date for reopening indoor dining may not be agreed until tomorrow

    A formal date for the re-opening of indoor dining may not be agreed until tomorrow. Cabinet Ministers are being briefed on the legislation over the phone this afternoon, ahead of a full cabinet meeting in the morning. The new laws will allow fully vaccinated…
  • Jul 12, 2021

    €70,000 of suspected cannabis herb found in search in Galway city

    Gardaí have seized €70,000 worth of suspected Cannabis herb following the search of a house in Galway city on Saturday. Shortly after 4pm on Saturday afternoon, Gardaí attached to the Galway Divisional Drugs Unit conducted a search of a house in the Doughiska…
  • Jul 12, 2021

    Minister Jack Chambers plays down speculation of leadership heave in FF

    The Government Chief Whip says he has full confidence in the Taoiseach, amid rumblings about Micheal Martin's leadership of the party. While party sources are playing down the prospects of an imminent move against Mr Martin, former Minister Barry Cowen is…
  • Jul 12, 2021

    People asked to report any sightings of Barn Owls across Mayo

    People across Co Mayo are being asked to report any information they have in relation to Barn Owls. Over recent decades, the Barn Owl population has suffered extensive decline. However, there seems to be early indications that Barn Owl populations may be…
  • Jul 12, 2021

    Day centres for the elderly & disabled should be fully reopened, says Roscommon TD

    It's unacceptable that day services for people with disabilities and older people remain closed, or only open for part of the week, despite the fact that users and staff are vaccinated - that's according to Roscommon-Galway TD Denis Naughten. Deputy Naughten…
  • Jul 12, 2021

    Minister Jack Chambers to open gteic hub in Achill today

    Following visits to Charlestown, Ballina and Castlebar yesterday evening, the Government Chief Whip and Minister of State for the Gaeltacht & Sport Jack Chambers has a number of engagements in Co Mayo today. The Minister starts this morning with visits to…
  • Jul 12, 2021

    Cabinet meets today to sign off on legislation allowing for reopening of indoor hospitality

    The Cabinet will meet today to sign off on new legislation that will pave the way for the reopening of indoor hospitality. Under the proposals, unvaccinated children will be allowed inside pubs and restaurants when they fully reopen. They will have to be…
  • Jul 12, 2021

    Gardai investigate serious assault in Tuam

    Gardai are investigating a serious assault in Tuam in the early hours of yesterday morning. A man in his 40's was assaulted at about 12.05 am at Foster Place in Tuam, and received a number of injuries. He was taken to the Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where his…
  • Jul 12, 2021

    Proclamation Stone unveiled in Castlerea on 100th anniversary of the Truce

    A Proclamation Stone was unveiled in Castlerea yesterday evening, as part of the events to mark the Decade of Centenaries. Exactly 100 years to the day since the truce was signed in the Irish War of Independence, the Defence Minister Jack Chambers and…
  • Jul 11, 2021

    Gardai investigating serious assault in Co. Galway

    Gardai are investigating a serious assault on a man in County Galway. He received a number of injuries when he was attacked at Foster Place in Tuam at around 5 past midnight this morning. The man in his 40s was taken to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where he's…
  • Jul 11, 2021

    Over 570 Covid-19 cases confirmed

    The Department of Health has reported an additional 576 Covid cases today. There are 58 patients with the disease in hospital, an increase of 6 on yesterday's figure. While the number of people receiving treatment in ICU remains at 16. The Health Minister…
  • Jul 11, 2021

    Unvaccinated under-18s will be allowed inside pubs and restaurants when indoor hospitality reopens

    Unvaccinated under-18s will be allowed inside pubs and restaurants when indoor hospitality resumes, according to a junior minister. However, they'll have to be accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult. A cabinet meeting's taking place tomorrow to sign off on…
  • Jul 11, 2021

    Sligo Fianna Fail deputy calls for his leader to resign

    Taoiseach Micheál Martin should quit as Fianna Fáil leader during the Dáil's summer break, according to one of the party's TDs. Marc MacSharry's call comes after the party got less than 5 per cent in this week's Dublin Bay South by-election. The Sligo-Leitrim…
  • Jul 10, 2021

    581 new Covid-19 cases

    The Department of Health has reported 581 new Covid cases today. There are 52 patients in hospital, an increase of 2 compared with yesterday's figures. While 16 people are in intensive care units across the country, up one.
  • Jul 10, 2021

    HSE expects 80% of adult population to be fully vaccinated by the end of the summer

    The head of the HSE has said he expects up to 80 percent of the adult population to be fully vaccinated by the end of the summer. At the moment 55 percent are fully protected while more than 70 percent have been partially vaccinated against Covid. More than…
  • Jul 10, 2021

    Special event in Castlerea tomorrow as part of the Decade of Centenaries

    A special event will take place in Castlerea this Sunday, as part of the Decade of Centenaries. A proclamation stone will be unveiled outside the Courthouse by Colonel Kevin Campion of the Irish Defence Forces, and a native of Castlerea. Minister Jack…
  • Jul 10, 2021

    No Covid tests to be carried out at MacHale Park tomorrow

    No Covid-19 tests will be carried out this Sunday at the test centre at MacHale Park in Castlebar, as the Mayo footballers taken on Leitrim in the Connacht senior football championship semi-final. The HSE says the Covid-19 test centre at MacHale Park will not…
  • Jul 10, 2021

    Erris community raises over €14,000 for Ballyglass RNLI & local GAA Club

    During the months of May and June, the combined efforts of the Cill Chomáin Ladies and Mens team raised €14,234 for the Ballyglass RNLI and Cill Chomain GAA. The monies raised were split equally, with both groups getting €7,117 each. A “Dip, Donate, Nominate”…
  • Jul 10, 2021

    New figures show 106,000 people are waiting to take their driving test

    New figures show that 106,000 people are waiting to take their driving test here while a further 130,000 are waiting for their driver theory test. The Irish Daily Mail reports that Covid 19 restrictions have led to the backlog. The Road Safety Authority has…
  • Jul 10, 2021

    Nursing Home visits set to return to closer to normal within the next ten days

    Nursing home visits are set to return to closer to normal within the next 10 days. New guidance from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre says restrictions should be eased by July 19th. The new rules state routine visits won't have to be scheduled in…
  • Jul 10, 2021

    Deputy CMO warns of rising Covid-19 cases in Roscommon & Sligo

    The Deputy Chief Medical Officer says the Delta variant may be up to twice as transmittable as the virus we were dealing with this time last year. Dr Ronan Glynn says some parts of the country are more affected than others including Donegal, Waterford and…
  • Jul 10, 2021

    Castlebar candidate eliminated on the 6th count in Dublin Bay South by-election

    Labour Party candidate Ivana Bacik won a resounding victory for her party in the Dublin Bay South byelection last night in a disappointing result for Fine Gael, which also saw a dramatic collapse in the Fianna Fáil vote. Ms Bacik will take the Dáil seat…
  • Jul 09, 2021

    Highest Covid-19 figures since April 1st

    631 covid cases have been reported today - the highest figure since April 1st. 50 people are in hospital with the virus, 15 of which are in ICU. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tony Holohan says today's figure is a cause of concerns and shows the disease is…
  • Jul 09, 2021

    Author to donate all proceeds from his book to Mayo literary festival

    Clogher resident Tony Lynott is generously donating all of the proceeds from the sale of his book to the Wild Atlantic Words literary festival. Anyone who would like to support the annual Castlebar-based festival can now do so by purchasing a copy of The…
  • Jul 09, 2021

    Castlebar travel agent reports increase in enquiries about holidays

    Travel agents across the region will be hoping to see an upturn in enquiries, with the reopening of international travel from 19th July. From next week, people who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 will begin to receive their EU Digital Covid Certificate…
  • Jul 09, 2021

    High Covid-19 rates in Ballymote-Tubbercurry, and in Roscommon LEA

    Covid-19 figures are very high in the Ballymote -Tubbercurry areas of Co Sligo and in the Roscommon local electoral area. A breakdown of Covid-19 figures by local electoral areas shows that these two areas are among the top ten highest incidence rates.…
  • Jul 09, 2021

    Mayo Senator calls for ongoing financial supports for hospitality industry

    Ongoing financial supports are needed for the hospitality industry in Mayo, and across the country - such as the extension of the wage subsidy scheme and the retention of the 9% VAT rate. That's according to Mayo Senator Lisa Chambers, who says that even if…
  • Jul 09, 2021

    Person reported missing in Mayo overnight was later recovered

    A person reported missing in Mayo overnight was later recovered safe and well. Achill Island Coast Guard and the Ballyglass Coast Guard Unit were tasked following a report of a missing female in Ballycroy shortly after 2am this morning. The two teams,…
  • Jul 09, 2021

    Unique Reek Sunday Pilgrimage now into its 2nd week

    Organisers of the Reek Sunday pilgrimage are very happy with how this year's unique pilgrimage is going - now in its second week. This year, rather than cancelling Reek Sunday, the Croagh Patrick Pilgrimage is being held from Wednesday to Saturday each week…
  • Jul 09, 2021

    Social gatherings helping fuel rise in Covid cases in Sligo & Donegal

    The HSE is urging people to “act sensibly” after a number of social gatherings helped fuel a rise in Covid cases in Sligo and Donegal. Funerals, wakes, house parties and other indoor gatherings have led to outbreaks in the past two weeks. The Irish…
  • Jul 09, 2021

    Concern over high ED attendances at hospitals in Mayo & Galway

    The HSE says some hospitals are experiencing “winter level” surges of patients in emergency departments, as Ireland braces for a wave of Delta variant cases. HSE chief operations officer Ann O’Connor said some hospitals have seen a large number of people…
  • Jul 09, 2021

    Govt on target to have plan for reopening indoor dining in place for 19th July

    The Taoiseach says the Government is on target to have a plan to reopen indoor dining in place for July 19th. For the second time this week, representatives for the hospitality sector met Government officials about the plans yesterday. Taoiseach Micheal…
  • Jul 09, 2021

    Sligo has second-highest rate of Covid-19 in the country

    Ireland has the fourth highest incidence rate of Covid-19 in the EU - with only Cyprus, Portugal and Spain faring worse. The Republic's 14-day rate is now 121 per 100,000 people, with 534 new cases confirmed yesterday. Co Sligo now has the second highest rate…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    Cabinet to consider six options for reopening indoor hospitality

    The Government will consider six reopening options for indoor dining at its Cabinet meeting on Tuesday. A further meeting between representatives of the hospitality sector and senior Government officials was held today. The Vintners' Federation of Ireland…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    Fundraising campaign underway for facility in Cong for children with cancer & their families

    Thanks to a donation of over €1 million from golfer Rory McIlroy, a site has been secured in Cong for a therapeutic short-break centre for families with a child suffering from cancer, and planning permission has been granted for the facility. However, €12.5…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    No Covid-19 tests this Sunday at MacHale Park, Castlebar

    No Covid-19 tests will be carried out this Sunday at the test centre at MacHale Park in Castlebar, as the Mayo footballers taken on Leitrim in the Connacht senior football championship semi-final. The HSE says the Covid-19 test centre at MacHale Park will not…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    Wreath laid to mark 41st anniversary of the deaths of two Gardai near Loughlynn

    Yesterday marked the 41st anniversary of the deaths of two Gardai in the line of duty in Co Roscommon. On 7th July 1980, Detective Garda John Morley and Garda Henry Byrne, who were stationed in Castlerea, were shot dead near Loughlynn while responding to a…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    UHG most overcrowded hospital in the country today

    University Hospital Galway is the most overcrowded in the country today. There are 45 patients on trolleys at the Galway hospital, according to the latest figures from the Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation. Elsewhere across the region, there are 13…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    Motorists urged to lock cars in coastal and scenic locations

    Gardai are urging motorists to lock their vehicles when parking in coastal and scenic locations this Summer, as millions of euro worth of property are stolen from cars each year. Over 36 million euro in valuables have been stolen from cars between 2016 and…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    Mayo Pride Parade cancelled

    The Mayo Pride parade, due to take place this weekend, has been cancelled. The parade was planned for Westport this Saturday, but the organisers say that - despite stringent event planning and liaising with the local authorities - Gardai have advised that the…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    Several hotels in the West among winners at the Irish Hotel Awards 2021

    Several hotels in the West were among the winners in the 2021 Irish Hotel Awards this week. The Lodge at Ashford Castle in Cong was named Ireland's best 4-star hotel. The Lodge also won the Fine Dining Hotel of the Year award. Mount Falcon in Ballina won the…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    Galway tech company to create up to 30 new jobs

    A Galway tech company is set to create up to 30 new jobs over the next five years as part of a collaboration with NUI Galway. Furbo based Aró Digital Strategy is teaming-up with NUIG’s Insight Centre for Data Analytics to build a product which Aró will…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    New Chief Supt appointed for Mayo, Roscommon / Longford Garda Divisions

    A new Chief Superintendent has been appointed to take over responsibility for the Mayo Garda Division, as well as the Roscommon / Longford Garda Division. Chief Superintendent Raymond McMahon takes up the post with effect from today, following the retirement…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    NUIG hopeful of holding large-scale lectures this autumn

    Irish universities are hoping to hold large-scale lectures this autumn. The Irish Universites Association says all eight colleges are finalising their plans for the return of on-campus teaching in September. It will tell an Oireachtas committee today big…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    The Lodge at Ashford Castle wins another prestigious award

    The Lodge at Ashford Castle in Cong has won another prestigious accolade. The Lodge has been awarded 4-Star Hotel of the Year 2021 at the Irish Hotel Awards. This is the second year running that the Cong hotel has picked up the accolade, which is a testament…
  • Jul 08, 2021

    Funding of €380,000 allocated to complete the second phase of a road in Claremorris

    Funding of €380,000 has been sanctioned to complete the road at Claremount in Claremorris. This funding has been allocated under the Smarter Travel Scheme. Local Fine Gael Councillor Tom Connolly says this funding is hugely important to benefit the local…