Details

 There is a surge in interest in booking international holidays again, since the majority of the Covid restrictions were dropped on Saturday last.

Travel agents are reporting busy phone lines and customers coming back into the travel agencies to book their summer breaks.

Emma Kilkelly is a travel agent in Castlebar. Her shop was very busy this morning with a full compliment of staff on duty to deal with the surge in demand.

She spoke to Midwest News Editor Teresa O'Malley about the new vibrancy in the holiday market...

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  • May 18, 2022

    HSE warns of disruption across hospitals today

    The HSE's warning patients to expect 'significant disruption' in hospitals today, due to industrial action. It involves 2,100 medical scientists, who are picketing over pay and career development issues. They're refusing to carry out routine lab services from…
  • May 18, 2022

    Pressure mounting on Government to clarify when leaving cert results will be issued

    Pressure is mounting on the government to clarify when this year's leaving cert results will be issued. It has emerged this week that the usual mid August date is likely to be delayed while provision is also being made to hold a deferred sitting of tests in…
  • May 18, 2022

    €12 Million euro in annual funding needed to prevent large scale closures across Post Office Network

    Postmasters are warning 12 million euro in annual funding's needed to prevent "large scale" closures across the post office network. The Irish Postmasters Union will tell today's Oireachtas transport committee services are at a "critical juncture" and could…
  • May 17, 2022

    Strike planned for tomorrow impacting on surgery and hospital outpatient appointments nationally

    Many surgeries and hospital outpatient appointments will be cancelled tomorrow due to a strike notice being served on the HSE by members of Ireland's Medical Laboratory Scientists Association. MLSA are taking the action in a long running dispute over pay and…
  • May 17, 2022

    National Award for ATU in the 2022 Education Awards

    Staff in Atlantic Technological University (ATU) are celebrating winning a top accolade in The Education Awards 2022, the “Best Masters Programme” award, for its two-year Master of Science in Design and Innovation programme. Delivered from the ATU Galway…
  • May 17, 2022

    All welcome to attend launch today of Tourmakeady Energy Master Plan

    Tourmakeaday will launch their Sustainable Energy Master Plan this afternoon in Tourmakeady Hall at 3pm. As well as the official launch of the plan, there will be information clinics on the Warmer Homes Scheme, Grants available from SEAI , One to One Energy…
  • May 17, 2022

    A Mayo school sees its numbers more than trebled as Ukranian refugee children are welcomed

    Photo: Conor McKeown Photography With almost 80 primary school age Ukranaian refugees now living in the Breaffy House Resort, outside Castlebar, since they fled Ukraine with their families in March, these students aged between 4 and 13 are now attending…
  • May 17, 2022

    N59 closed to traffic in Mayo following two-vehicle crash

    The N59 is closed to traffic this afternoon following a two-vehicle collision near Lecanvey. The crash occurred a mile outside of the village on the Murrisk side at around 11:15am this morning. It is not known at this point if there are any injuries to…
  • May 17, 2022

    Galway Late Late Toy Show Star facing serious surgery today

    Toy Show star, Galway’s Saoirse Ruane made a generous donation to Ukraine, days before she faces major surgery. The ten-year-old is set to undergo an operation to remove remove a tumour from her lung today (Tuesday) in what her mother has deemed the ‘fight of…
  • May 17, 2022

    Three vehicle collision on the N17 in Sligo this morning

    Gardaí and emergency services are at the scene of a three vehicle collision near Curry this morning. The crash occurred at Drumbaun on the Tubbercurry side of the village at around 8:20am this morning. Midwest News understands that the road is down to one…
  • May 17, 2022

    Pressure mounts on Government to clarify Leaving Cert results date

    Pressure is mounting on the Government to clarify when this year's leaving cert results will be issued. It emerged yesterday that the usual mid-August date is likely to be delayed because of pledges that this year's exams won't be graded any lower than last…
  • May 17, 2022

    Laws allowing alcohol service at outdoor seating areas to be extended

    Laws allowing alcohol to be served at outdoor seating areas are set to be extended by six months. The measures was brought in during Covid-19 and is due to lapse on the 31st of May. However, Justice Minister Helen McEntee will ask Cabinet to extend them until…
  • May 17, 2022

    Ballina among big winners at the annual Pride of Place Awards

    There has been some good news overnight for the town of Ballina. Ballina Community Clean Up won the Pride of Place Award in category 5 - population over 5000 last night in Killarney. The group was founded in 2019 with 6 volunteers and now currently have over…
  • May 17, 2022

    Extensive roadworks planned for Foxford over the coming weeks

    Extensive roadworks are planned for Foxford town over the next number of weeks. The N58 (Castlebar Road) road from the junction with Hawthorn hill, through Main Street as far as Guirys corner, is being planed out and will be completely re-laid with…
  • May 17, 2022

    Mayo councillor wants to know why visiting restrictions are not being eased at Mayo University Hospital

    A Mayo county councillor wants to know why visiting restrictions are not being eased at Mayo University Hospital. Castlebar based Independent councillor Michael Kilcoyne, a member of the HSE West Forum, has submitted a question seeking clarity on the…
  • May 16, 2022

    Catering services remain suspended on Irish Rail Intercity services

    Catering services on some Irish Rail services won't return to operation until early next year. Iarnród Éireann says it will no longer be working with provider, RailGourmet on Intercity routes. Catering was cancelled during most of the pandemic but services on…
  • May 16, 2022

    Solid gold coins found in book in Galway bookshop

    Kenny's Bookshop in Galway have made an unusual discovery of hidden treasure in the spine of an old prayer book. Archivist Sarah Gallagher was cataloguing a recently bought Diocesan library when she uncovered two solid gold coins hidden down the side of the…
  • May 16, 2022

    Bolt opt for Sligo for its first Irish Electric Bike Service

    Bolt, the largest micromobility operator in Europe, will launch its first Irish electric bike service in Sligo at the beginning of June. Representatives discussed the 100 bike pilot scheme for the town at today’s ‘Let’s Play Sligo’ event to mark National Bike…
  • May 16, 2022

    Public warned to be aware of surge in fraud as thousands change banks

    Bank of Ireland is warning the public to be extra vigilant for fraud as the mass movement of bank accounts accelerates with Ulster Bank and KBC exiting the market. Consumers should expect an increase in scam calls, texts and emails as fraudsters commonly take…
  • May 16, 2022

    Sligo man reaches peak of Mount Everest overnight

    A Castleconnor man has reached the summit of mount Everest overnight. Jonathan Ruane is the first Sligo man to successfully climb the almost 9 thousand metre mountain. He left camp four yesterday and reached the peak at about 12:30am Irish time. Ruane is an…
  • May 16, 2022

    Minister O'Brien urged to re-think criteria to qualify for Affordable Housing Schemes

    Mayo Sinn Fein Deputy, Rose Conway Walsh says the Minister must look again at how people earning 100,000 euro a year can avail of affordable housing schemes, when no such schemes are even available in this county. The Government's affordable homes scheme is…
  • May 16, 2022

    Visiting restrictions eased from today at SUH

    Visiting restrictions have been eased at Sligo University Hospital from today, (Mon, May 16th) following a review of visiting times. Visitors now, do not need to make an appointment. Visiting hours are between 6pm and 8pm, with one visit per patient. Up to…
  • May 16, 2022

    Councillor calls for action on safety issues in Ballinrobe and Kilmaine

    There are serious concerns around the safety of the footbridge in Ballinrobe town that runs along the N84 on the Kilmaine road, according to local Fianna Fail councillor Damien Ryan. The councillor is now calling on Mayo County Council to ensure that all the…
  • May 16, 2022

    Affordable housing scheme under fire after it emerges people earning over 100,000 euro are eligible to apply

    The Government's affordable homes scheme is under fire today after it emerged that people earning up to 100 thousand euro a year are eligible to apply. Interest free subsidies are awarded under the Affordable Housing Fund which sees local authorities…
  • May 16, 2022

    Leaving Cert results may be delayed to accommodate deferred exam sittings

    This year's leaving cert results might be delayed. Students will sit the exams for the first time since the covid pandemic this year, however the Irish Times reports the results, usually issued in mid-August, may be released later this year. It's to…
  • May 16, 2022

    Ukrainians are being given help securing school places for children

    Ukranian families are being given help in securing school places for their children. The Department of Education says REALT is supporting schools to meet their needs as they emerge. It's confirmed 5,843 Ukrainian pupils are currently enrolled in education…
  • May 16, 2022

    Gardaí appeal for public assistance in their investigation into a burglary of a Mayo business

    Gardaí are investigating the burglary of a business in Castlebar on Friday last. The incident occurred at Cosgrave’s Service Station at approximately 2.30am in the morning. Midwest News understands that a sum of cash and cigarettes were taken from the…
  • May 15, 2022

    Three taken to hospital following crash in Galway

    Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a serious road traffic collision in Co. Galway this morning, Sunday 15th May 2022. The single car collision occurred on the R358, at Treanrevagh, Mountbellew, shortly after 2am.A man in his 30s was taken to…
  • May 15, 2022

    Taoiseach attending National Famine Commemoration in Roscommon today

    The Taoiseach is attending the National Famine Commemoration in Co Roscommon this afternoon. It's taking place in Strokestown, in memory of those who suffered or died during the Great Hunger in the 1840s. Government chief whip Jack Chambers is also attending…
  • May 15, 2022

    Clifden RNLI bringing new "Launch a Memory" lifeboat home to Galway today

    Clifden RNLI are bringing their new 'Launch a Memory' lifeboat home to Galway today with 10,000 names on board. The St Christopher is on show from now until lunchtime on Clifden beach - with an opportunity at low tide for the public to get up close and view…
  • May 15, 2022

    Warm weather expected to change tomorrow

    People are expected to flock to beaches and parks today to enjoy the warm sunshine, with temperatures set to hit 20 degrees again this afternoon. But it's due to become more showery from Monday, with heavy downpours expected all next week. Alan O'Reilly of…
  • May 15, 2022

    Elderly more at risk from new wave of covid-19

    The elderly and immunocompromised will be more at risk of severe complications from a new wave of covid-19. That's the view of a UCD Professor if they don't receive their booster vaccine, with new Omicron variants expected to arrive here from South Africa.…
  • May 14, 2022

    One in three SME's have experienced forms of cybercrime

    Almost one in three small and medium size businesses in Ireland have experienced some form of cybercrime in the past year. That's according to an EU report that shows 32 percent of Irish SME's have been affected. The Eurobarometer poll also reveals that 12…
  • May 14, 2022

    877,000 people on hospital waiting lists

    A total of 877 thousand people are on a hospital list waiting for care. 234 thousand have been on list for more than a year. The figures reveal 100,000 children are also waiting on treatment.
  • May 14, 2022

    Diesel could hit 2 euro per litre in the coming days

    Diesel could hit 2 euro per litre in the coming days. That's according to a fuel survey by the Irish Independent, who say prices are expected to reach a record high this week. The average price of diesel at the moment is 1 euro 95 nationwide - the figure in…
  • May 14, 2022

    New variants of Covid could results in a surge in cases, according to report

    New variants of Covid could result in a surge in cases, according to a recent report in the Irish Independent. The latest strains of the virus were first detected in South Africa in January and February of this year. The report also revealed that there are…
  • May 13, 2022

    €280,000 allocated to 123 local projects in Sligo

    €280,000 has been allocated for 123 local projects in Sligo under the Community Activities Fund from the Department of Rural and Community Development. Minister Frank Feighan says this is fantastic news for many local community groups right across the county…
  • May 13, 2022

    One person taken to hospital following road collision in Roscommon

    One person has been taken to hospital following a three car collision in County Roscommon today. The collision took place around 2pm on the N5 Tulsk to Frenchpark road. It's understood one person sustained minor injuries in the crash and has been removed to…
  • May 13, 2022

    New Music Centre in Castlebar will be officially opened later this month

    The official opening of the home of Music West, which incorporated Mayo Concert Orchestra, Mayo Youth Orchestra and Castlebar Concert Band, takes place on Saturday, May 28, at 1 p.m. It will be performed by founder members of the Mayo Academy of Performing…
  • May 13, 2022

    Wild Atlantic nature project launched in Ballycroy today

    The €20 LIFE IP Wild Atlantic Nature project was officially launched this morning in Ballycroy Community Centre by two Green Ministers Malcolm Noonan and Pippa Hackett . LIFE IP Wild Atlantic Nature aims to deliver environmental and social benefits through…
  • May 13, 2022

    Wild campers among potential cause of concerns for farmers, according to INHFA survey

    Groups of wild campers on mountainsides, posing a risk of fire, are among the issues that are causing concern to landowners, according to a survey underway by The Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association (INHFA). The Association has published preliminary…
  • May 13, 2022

    Minister Chambers in Tourmakeady and Cornamona this afternoon for a number of engagements

    Minister Jack Chambers will be on an official visit to Tourmakeady and Cornamona this afternoon His visit gets underway at the Geo Park Tuar Mhic Éadaigh at 3.30pm. He then travels on to Cornamona, where he will visit the Mens Shed ( Seid na bhFear) at…
  • May 13, 2022

    Mayo Genealogy week concludes tomorrow in Turlough

    Mayo Genealogy Week concludes tomorrow after a weeklong series of events in the Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar. Workshops teaching people the basics of family research and one on one sessions have taken place all week, with the event concluding tomorrow…
  • May 13, 2022

    Planned disruption to services at MCC this weekend

    Due to a major network upgrade, the public are being advised that there will be a planned shutdown to the Mayo County Council network from 1pm today Fri (13th May) until Sun 15th May 2022. This may cause a disruption to services and the local authority says…
  • May 13, 2022

    Very rare occurence of Hepatitis presenting in a number of children nationally

    A consultant in infectious diseases says hepatitis is a 'very rare occurrence'. The HSE's working with health services in other countries to identify the cause of hepatitis in children. It's after it was confirmed one child died and six probable cases have…
  • May 13, 2022

    New all weather lifeboat to be delivered to Clifden RNLI tomorrow

    Clifden RNLI will welcome the arrival of their new all weather lifeboat tomorrow (Sat). The new Shannon-class lifeboat is unique in the Irish fleet, as it carries the names of over 10,000 people. In a fundraising initiative called “Launch a Memory”, people…
  • May 13, 2022

    Bathing water quality has improved over the past year

    There's good news for sea swimmers and those hoping to head to the coast to enjoy the fine weather being forecast for this weekend. Ireland's bathing water quality has continued to improve with 97% of the 148 identified bathing spots either meeting or…
  • May 13, 2022

    Investigations underway into an alleged assault in Ballina last weekend

    Gardaí in Ballina carried out an operation in the town yesterday (Thurs) morning in connection with an alleged assault that took place in the Bunree area last Sunday,(May 8). Gardaí became aware of a video circulating online of the incident and launched an…
  • May 13, 2022

    Second Covid Vaccine booster available from today at the Mayo Vaccination Centre in Breaffy

    Self-scheduled appointments are available at Mayo Vaccination Centre at the Breaffy House Resort, Castlebar, (F23 R253) for second booster COVID-19 vaccinations for those aged 65 or over by going to hse.ie/book. It is important to check your eligibility…
  • May 13, 2022

    Mayo school secures national title- Young Social Innovators of the Year Award

    A Mayo school was honoured at the Young Social Innovators of the Year Ireland (YSI) Awards for its positive impact in helping to create a more equal, fair and sustainable world. Picking up the Make Our World Healthier - Physical Health Award, supported by the…
  • May 12, 2022

    Meeting this evening in Islandeady for host families for young Chernobyl evacuees

    Candle of Grace, the Castlebar based charity, that earlier this week successfully evacuated 113 people from Chernobyl to Mayo, including 90 children, 60 of them deemed “unaccompanied minors” will hold a meeting this evening in Leitir, Islandeady, Castlebar at…
  • May 12, 2022

    Burst watermain affecting supply to a number of Galway consumers

    Irish Water is working with Galway County Council to restore water as quickly as possible to all impacted customers following a burst to a water main in Athenry. The burst is currently impacting the water supply to customers in the following estates: Caislean…
  • May 12, 2022

    Sligo man remanded in custody until next month

    A man charged with the murders of two men in Sligo ,Aidan Moffitt and Michael Snee, and assaulting a third man in the town has been remanded in custody until next month. 22 year old Yousef Palani with an address of 10 Markievicz Heights, Sligo, appeared…
  • May 12, 2022

    Family of missing Mayo woman hope they are close to finding her remains after receiving anonymous phone call

    There is renewed optimism in finding a Mayo woman who has been missing for 22 years. Sandra Collins was 28 when she disappeared in Killala on December 4th 2000. Sandra’s brother Patrick says he believes an anonymous phone call he received at Christmas was…
  • May 12, 2022

    Road closure outside Westport, due to safety concerns

    A road has been closed outside Westport, due to safety concerns. Mayo County Council has confirmed the immediate closure of the L1824 at Barnaderg / Tawnyard until further notice. It's understood part of a wall in the area collapsed, and a road survey will…
  • May 12, 2022

    Mayo rents increase by almost 20% due to low availability

    Rents in Co Mayo in the first quarter of this year were almost 20% higher than in the same period last year- reflecting very low availability. That's according to the latest rent report from property website Daft.ie The average listed rent in Mayo is now €955…
  • May 12, 2022

    Irish Dental Association AGM underway in Galway

    The Irish Dental Association says if the medical card scheme isn't reformed, even more dentists will withdraw their services. Dentists are calling on the government to introduce sweeping reforms before they reach "crisis point". They say there are less than…
  • May 12, 2022

    State apology from the Taoiseach needed over illegal birth registrations

    The Tuam Mother and Baby Alliance is calling for a state apology from the Taoiseach in the Dail as distinct from what it terms a “Ministerial apology” in the Seanad on Tuesday night last. The Minister for Children, Roderic O’Gorman made an apology on behalf…
  • May 12, 2022

    Taoiseach to attend Famine Commemoration in Strokestown on Sunday

    Taoiseach Mícheal Martin will travel to Co Roscommon this Sunday, to attend the National Famine Commemoration in Strokestown. The ceremony at Strokestown Park House will include military honours and a wreath-laying ceremony, in remembrance of all who died or…
  • May 12, 2022

    Mayo University Hospital celebrating International Nurses Day today

    Each year International Nurses Day is celebrated on May 12th, the birthday of Florence Nightingale. Mayo University Hospital, like hospitals internationally today is marking the day by acknowledging the tireless work and dedication that nursing staff show…
  • May 12, 2022

    Roscommon Deputy says long covid has put a major strain on respiratory clinics

    Over 20,000 people are currently awaiting respiratory outpatient appointments with over a quarter of those already waiting more than 18 months. The issue has been highlighted by Roscommon/Galway TD Denis Naughten who says figures presented to him by the HSE…
  • May 12, 2022

    Oireachtas Golf Society making return two years after Golfgate saga in Galway

    The Oireachtas Golf Society is making a return this summer - almost two years after the infamous GolfGate dinner. It's been out of action since the controversial event in Clifden, Co Galway, which led to several high-profile resignations. Four men were…
  • May 12, 2022

    CAO Points set to reach last year's record high

    Points requirements for college courses are “highly likely” to reach last year’s record levels again with many places awarded on the basis of random selection, according to internal Government records. The Irish Times is reporting that officials believe the…
  • May 12, 2022

    South Mayo school gets green light for extension

    Mayo Abbey National School has been approved to proceed to tender for a school extension. The news has been confirmed by Mayo Deputy Michael Ring who says the extension will include 1 x 80m2 Mainstream classroom including ensuite and 1 x 10.5m2 WC for…
  • May 12, 2022

    Man accused of murdering two men in Sligo to appear in court this morning

    A 22-year-old man accused of murdering two men in Sligo is due to appear in court again this morning via videolink. Yousef Palani, of 10 Markievicz Heights in Sligo, is charged with the murder of Aidan Moffitt at his home in Cartron Heights in Sligo town on…
  • May 11, 2022

    Mayo TD stresses importance to protect investigative journalism

    A Fianna Fail TD has warned that investigative journalism in Ireland will be weakened unless we protect it. Dara Callerary made the statement during a Dail discussion on a report reviewing the Defamation Act of 2009. Last month, the EU called on Ireland to…
  • May 11, 2022

    13 cyclists from the Erris Region will embark on a 600km cycle tomorrow morning to raise funds for the RNLI

    A Group of 13 from the Erris region will begin a 600 kilometre cycle tomorrow in a bid to raise funds for the Ballyglass RNLI. Waves2Wheels was the brainchild of Belmullet Cycling Club in 2019 but as a result of the pandemic were unable to a challenge like…
  • May 11, 2022

    Founder of Candle of Grace tells how they successfully evacuated Chernoybl children into Mayo

    The founder of the Mayo based charity Candle of Grace has has admitted that they did not inform Tusla in advance of the arrival of 60 “non accompanied minors” from Chernobyl into Dublin airport yesterday. Lily Luzan told Midwest News today that everything was…
  • May 11, 2022

    Pride of Place awards next Monday night

    Four Mayo communities are representing the county in this year's National Pride of Place Awards. Pride of Place is an annual all-island competition, organised by Co-operation Ireland, IPB Insurance and local authorities, which recognise the work of…
  • May 11, 2022

    Huge demand in Mayo for Affordable Housing, according to latest survey - but the county fails to qualify for it

    There has been a huge response, to date, to a recent advertisement by Mayo County Council seeking public interest in “affordable housing”. With the closing date for a response not until the end of this month (May), already in excess of 600 responses have been…
  • May 11, 2022

    Reduction in the number of patients waiting on trolleys across the region

    Patients presenting at Emergency Departments of hospitals across the region today are experiencing slight delays. There has been a reduction in the number of patients waiting on trolleys in Sligo University Hospital where 29 patients are waiting for…
  • May 11, 2022

    70,000 euro drug seizure yesterday in county Galway

    Two people were arrested in connection with a drug seizure in county Galway yesterday. As part of Operation Tara, Gardaí attached to the Galway Divisional Drugs Unit seized cannabis in excess of €70,000 and arrested two persons following a search in…
  • May 11, 2022

    Sligo Hotel ranked 17th in Ireland's Top 25 Hotels by Trip Advisor's Travellers Choice Awards

    The Sligo Park Hotel is celebrating being named in the Trip Advisor top 25 hotels in Ireland, according to travellers, in its Travellers' Choice Best of the Best Awards 2022. The accolade comes three months after becoming the top-rated Sligo hotel on the…
  • May 11, 2022

    Children evacuated from Chernobyl by Mayo charity delayed at Dublin Airport

    A number of children evacuated from Chernobyl by a Mayo charity were left stranded at Dublin Airport as Tusla were not made aware of their arrival. The Irish Independent is reporting this morning that child protection officers at Dublin Airport refused to…
  • May 11, 2022

    Ashford Castle named in TripAdvisor's list of Ireland's top 25 hotels

    The award-winning Ashford Hotel in Cong has been named in TripAdvisor's list of the top 25 hotels in Ireland. In its Travellers' Choice Best of the Best Awards, hotels in Co Kerry have taken four of the top 5 spots. The Sligo Park Hotel is listed at No. 17 in…
  • May 11, 2022

    Health Minister facing questions over resignation of Galway's Dr Ronan Glynn

    The Department of Health will have to replace two of the most senior figures who were at the forefront of the battle against Covid-19. Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn is resigning and leaving his role at the end of the month. Dr Glynn, who's a…
  • May 11, 2022

    Mayo TD claims many students in danger of missing out on J1 visas

    Many students are in danger of missing out on J1 visas this Summer, due to extended delays in processing the applications. That's according to Mayo FG Deputy Alan Dillon, who's raised the matter with the Minister for Foreign Affairs. Since the J1 programme…
  • May 10, 2022

    Ways to reduce energy consumption

    An energy expert says just 5 appliances in the household are responsible for 50 per cent of electricity costs. Consumers are looking to cut down on costs after a recent Eurostat study found electricity prices were 26 per cent higher here than they are on the…
  • May 10, 2022

    Taoiseach urges British PM to engage further to resolve protocol issue in the North

    The Taoiseach has urged British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to engage in further talks on resolving issues with the Northern Ireland protocol. During a phone call between the two this morning Micheál Martin said any unilateral action would be destabilising…
  • May 10, 2022

    Galway native Dr. Ronan Glynn resigns as Deputy CMO

    Dr. Ronan Glynn has resigned from his position as Deputy Chief Medical Officer. The Department of Health has confirmed he will leave the role at the end of this month. Dr. Glynn – a native of Oranmore in County Galway - was a prominent figure during the…
  • May 10, 2022

    N5 reopens following two-car collision earlier near Swinford

    The N5 road has reopened this lunchtime on the outskirts of Swinford, following a road collision earlier. The 2-car crash occurred at about 9am this morning near the Applegreen service station. Two people were taken to hospital from the scene. Gardai say one…
  • May 10, 2022

    Castlebar hotelier welcomes extension to lower VAT rate

    The Government’s decision to extend the lower VAT rate for the hospitality sector until next year is a very welcome development, according to the General Manager of the Breaffy House Resort in Castlebar, Wilson Bird. The 9% lower VAT rate, which was due to…
  • May 10, 2022

    Warm, sunny weather on the way this weekend

    Ireland is set to enjoy some of the warmest weather of the year this weekend. Met Eireann is forecasting temperatures of up to 20 degrees in places, with long spells of sunshine. Sunday will see the best of the warm weather, however the summer heat's not…
  • May 10, 2022

    Number of Covid-19 patients in local hospitals continues to fall

    The number of patients with Covid-19 at Mayo University Hospital has almost halved over the past month. Figures from the HSE show there were 13 patients with the virus being treated last night at the Mayo hospital - down from 23 a month ago. At Galway…
  • May 10, 2022

    Road diversions in place following collision on N5 near Swinford

    The N5 is closed on the outskirts of Swinford following a road collision. The 2-vehicle crash occurred near the Applegreen service station. Two people have been taken to hospital from the scene. The road is closed and Gardai say diversions are in place in…
  • May 10, 2022

    High number of patients waiting on trolleys in the region

    Patients are experiencing delays in Emergency Departments of hospitals across the region today. Sligo University Hospital are again today presenting with the second highest figures in the country where a total of 43 patients are waiting on trolleys. Meanwhile…
  • May 10, 2022

    Dogs will be allowed to walk on designated areas of Mayo's Blue Flag beaches

    Dogs will be allowed to walk on designated areas of Mayo's blue flag beaches during the Summer season. That's after an amendment proposed by Achill-based FF Councillor Paul McNamara was adopted by Mayo County Councillors at their monthly meeting yesterday. It…
  • May 10, 2022

    Road collision on N5 near Swinford

    Emergency services are en route to a serious road collision on the outskirts of Swinford. It's understood the crash has occurred near the Applegreen service station on the N5. Gardai and ambulance crews are on their way to the scene. No further details are…
  • May 10, 2022

    100 new jobs for Sligo

    100 new jobs have been announced this morning for Sligo. Medical device company Arrotek has announced the creation of up to 100 jobs, after being granted planning permission for a 20,000 sq ft extension to its headquarters at the Finisklin Business Park in…
  • May 10, 2022

    Second series of true crime show set to air next week

    A North Mayo woman who has been missing for over two decades and the murder of two Castlebar men are among those featured in a new series on TG4 which starts next week. Marú Inár Measc is a four-part true crime documentary which shines a light on the effect…
  • May 10, 2022

    Funding granted for extension to Our Lady's NS, Tourlestrane

    There’s good news today for Our Lady’s NS in Tourlestrane, Co. Sligo. Minister for Education Norma Foley has announced that funding has been granted for the school for a two room extension which includes one Special Educational Needs base and toilet and the…
  • May 10, 2022

    Concern over N5 Scramogue-Ballaghadereen road project

    The N5 Scramogue to Ballaghadereen road project cannot be sacrificed in any review of the cost of major road projects. That's according to Roscommon-based Senator Eugene Murphy who's concerned at a report in the Sunday Business Post that said some road…
  • May 10, 2022

    New helipad for Inishturk island has gone to tender

    Plans for the construction of a new helipad on Inishturk Island have gone to tender. That's according to Mayo FG Deputy Alan Dillon, who says the works will include the construction of a helicopter landing pad on Inishturk, and associated access road. Deputy…
  • May 10, 2022

    Cabinet expected to approve extension of 9% VAT rate for hospitality sector

    People involved in the tourism and hospitality industry across the West will welcome reports that the 9% VAT rate for the sector is to be extended, under plans to be approved by Cabinet this morning. The measure was due to expire at the end of August. It's…
  • May 09, 2022

    Plans being drawn up to tackle overcrowding at individual hospitals

    Over 70 percent of A-and-E patients are waiting more than six hours to be admitted to hospital, according to a new HSE and HIQA survey. It comes days after the INMO reported its highest ever trolley figure for a hospital, when 126 patients were waiting for a…
  • May 09, 2022

    Ballymote to Gurteen road closed in Sligo

    Gardai have confirmed that the Ballymote to Gurteen road is closed at present. The road has been closed after a passing lorry brought down some electricity cables just outside Gurteen. ESB crews are at the scene at present, but Gardai are advising people to…
  • May 09, 2022

    Information session this week on alternative pathways to NUIG

    Later this week, NUI Galway will host a special information session for prospective students eligible for alternative pathways into university. The event will be open to anyone seeking advice on courses available through the Access Centre and for people…
  • May 09, 2022

    New Investment Fund announced for the refurbishment of Community Centres

    Registration is now open for a new Community Centre Investment Fund. The fund, worth €15 million, has been announced by Minister Heather Humphreys today to allow for the upgrade and refurbishment of community centres nationally. The formal application process…
  • May 09, 2022

    High number of patients on trolleys today at SUH

    Patients are experiencing some delays in Emergency Departments of hospitals across the region today. Sligo University Hospital are presenting with the second highest figures in the country today where a total of 41 patients are waiting on trolleys. Meanwhile…
  • May 09, 2022

    Mayo TD concerned at shortage of affordable houses in parts of the county

    First-time buyers in Mayo will be disappointed to hear that there are no plans currently for affordable housing schemes in the county. Affordable homes are aimed at helping first-time buyers who are struggling to obtain mortgages, but do not qualify for…
  • May 09, 2022

    Master Plan needed for the development of the Quay at Lisloughrey, Cong

    A Master plan is now required by Mayo County council to develop a marina at Lisloughrey Cong, with adequate adjacent parking for cars and buses. That’s the view of Ballinrobe based Fianna Fail councillor Damien Ryan. The councillor raised the issue at a…
  • May 09, 2022

    Tender gone out for second phase of upgrade of the N60 between Claremorris and Balla

    Work on a 3.6 km stretch of N60 Balla to Claremorris Road Realignment works at Heathlawn has now gone out to tender, according to local Fine Gael councillor Cyril Burke and he says it’s hoped that construction will get underway by September. The coucillor has…
  • May 09, 2022

    The work of Claremorris students on show at The National Museum of Country Life

    Transition Year students from Mount St. Michael Secondary School have their work featured in a new national exhibition now on display and open to the public at the National Museum of Ireland - Country Life, Turlough, Castlebar. The exhibition is part of the…
  • May 09, 2022

    Irish Water launch new Water Conservation Calculator

    Over half of Irish households admit to wasting water. That's the finding of new Irish Water research as it encourages people to conserve water as the weather gets warmer. It's unveiling its new Conservation Calculator today which will help people across the…
  • May 09, 2022

    Strong support for Ireland's continued membership of the EU

    88% of of people here support Ireland's continued membership of the EU. A Red C poll was carried out for European Movement to mark the 50th anniversary of Ireland's vote join the European Union on May 10th 1972. It found that 79% of people agreed that EU…
  • May 09, 2022

    UNESCO World Heritage status sought for Ireland's rural pubs

    A campaign is being launched to have some of Ireland's small pubs given UNESCO World Heritage protection. In particular some rural pubs and old shopfronts are being targetted. A similar move is underway in France to protect cafe's and bistros there.…
  • May 09, 2022

    Popular Ballina Business closed down from today, with staff shortages among the reasons

    The doors of Crockets Quay Bistro in Ballina are closed from today after many successful years in business. In a statement on social media over the weekend, owner of the popular bar/restaurant Noel Regan and staff announced that they would be closing from…
  • May 09, 2022

    Call for additional parking controls in Castlebar on "Big Match" days

    There is a need for additional wardens or gardai to patrol parking in the residential areas around Hastings Insurance MacHale Park in Castlebar on days that big matches are taking place. That’s the view of Castlebar Fine Gael councillor Donna Sheridan. The…
  • May 08, 2022

    50% reduction in public transport fees for young adults from tomorrow

    A 50 percent reduction in public transport fares will be available to young adults across the country tomorrow. Those aged between 19 to 23 will be eligible to apply for the new 'Young Adult Leap Card', which will work alongside the 'Student Leap Card'. Also…
  • May 08, 2022

    Government to consider extending HAP scheme to Ukrainian refugees

    The Government's considering extending the housing assistance payment scheme to Ukrainian refugees. HAP's a form of social housing support provided by all local authorities to help people pay rent. According to The Sunday Times, the Department of…
  • May 08, 2022

    TII looking at funding major road projects

    The State agency responsible for roads and public transport's reviewing its budget for major projects amid rapidly increasing costs in the construction sector. Transport Infrastructure Ireland's assessing how many can be progressed within current funding…
  • May 07, 2022

    Plaque unveiling in Ballina to honour founding member of Fianna Fail

    On this Sunday afternoon in Ballina a plaque will be unveiled to the late PJ Rutledge. It’s a community event, and all are welcome, as the specially commissioned plaque is unveiled on Pearse Street in the town, by PJ Rutledge’s grandson, on the…
  • May 07, 2022

    See Her Elected programme rolls out to local secondary schools

    See Her Elected is a Government funded project that has been rolled out in local secondary schools in a bid to encourage more young women to pursue a career in politics. Communications Manager with See Her Elected is Roscommon native Mairead O’ Shea. Ms…
  • May 07, 2022

    Galway TD believes imported peat briquettes could be targetted by sale ban on smoky fuels

    Peat briquettes will not be included in new regulations banning the sale of smoky fuels this year, according to the Taoiseach. It follows Environment Minister Eamon Ryan's suggestions it could feature in a sales ban from September if they're found to produce…
  • May 07, 2022

    Covid hospital numbers drop below 300

    The number of Covid patients in public hospitals has dropped below 300 for the first time in over seven months. It fell to 274 last night - the lowest since September 29th of last year. The last time it was below 300 was on October 1st. 35 Covid patients are…
  • May 07, 2022

    Minister admits services for children still aren't working despite extra funding

    The Minister of State for Disabilities says despite extra funding, services for children still aren't working. It follows a week of protest, which saw hundreds of families taking to the street, to call for a complete overhaul of the system. Galway East TD…
  • May 07, 2022

    Hundreds of events have taken place to mark Darkness into Light

    Hundreds of events have taken place around Ireland and the world to mark Darkness into Light. Pieta estimates 100-thousand people have taken part in 230 events around the globe, including in New Zealand and Canada. The suicide and self harm prevention charity…
  • May 07, 2022

    Man rescued from Croagh Patrick

    Mayo Mountain Rescue Team assisted a 72-year-old man suffering from fatigue on Croagh Patrick yesterday evening. The team was tasked at 7:30pm, as the man was unable to safely descend the reek. The full unit was deployed and after assessment, the casualty was…
  • May 06, 2022

    Mayo Sinn Fein deputy talks about the likelihood of first Sinn Fein First Minister of NI

    Michelle O'Neill says she's feeling very positive about the prospect of becoming First Minister of Northern Ireland. She was re-elected to the Stormont Assembly this afternoon with Sinn Féin's vote showing strongly in the first counts. The party has had a…
  • May 06, 2022

    Large crowd turnout this afternoon in Charlestown for sod turning ceremony for new GAA pitch and walkway in honour of the late Colm Horkan

    The sod was turned this afternoon in Charlestown on a memorial GAA pitch and walkway in honour of Detective Garda Colm Horkan. Detective Garda Horkan sustained fatal gunshot wounds while on duty in Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, on June 17, 2020. A man arrested…
  • May 06, 2022

    Four year prison sentence for multiple sexual assaults on a school boy for Roscommon resident who was a former priest and journalist

    A former priest and newspaper columnist has been sentenced to four years in prison for multiple sexual assaults on a school boy in the 1990s. Barry Fergal Jennings (56) of Cloonkeerin, Frenchpark, Co Roscommon was convicted by unanimous jury decision last…
  • May 06, 2022

    Double success for Connemara based Distillery at World Liqueur Awards

    Connemara based, Micil Distillery, have had two products named in the World Liqueur Awards 2022. Micil Connemara Irish Cream has been named the Best Irish Cream in the World at this year’s World Liqueur Awards. The product took home the outright prize after…
  • May 06, 2022

    As counting continues in Northern Ireland assembly elections, we talk to Mayo Sinn Fein councillor about the probability of a historical result

    Counting is underway in Northern Ireland's assembly elections. 239 candidates are contesting 90 seats. The long process of counting is underway in what could be a seismic election in Northern Ireland. Sinn Fein is confident they've got the party vote out and…
  • May 06, 2022

    Night & Day festival unveils song contest for emerging artists

    Night and Day festival have today announced a song contest for emerging artists. The 2-day camping festival takes place on the grounds of Clonalis House, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon on 24 & 25 September. Four finalists will be picked from the entries received…
  • May 06, 2022

    Sligo University Hospital presenting highest waiting figures in the region

    The number of patients presenting at Emergency Departments of hospitals across the region today have fallen on yesterdays figures. There are 30 patients on trolleys today at Sligo University Hospital, which is the highest in the region. There are 25 patients…
  • May 06, 2022

    Calls for broadband to be made available in rural Ireland

    Irish Rural Link says broadband must be delivered to rural Ireland. The organisation has a membership of nearly 600 rural community groups across the country and is holding its 30th Anniversary Conference in Athlone today. It believes the rollout of broadband…
  • May 06, 2022

    Peat briquettes could be included in a ban on smoky fuels

    Peat briquettes could be included in a ban on smoky fuels from next September if they are found to produce excess pollution, the Environment Minister has indicated in the Dáil. Eamon Ryan said the Government would have to follow the science on smoky fuels and…
  • May 06, 2022

    Erasmus+ Funding allocated for Mayo College

    Mayo College of Further Education and Training have been awarded over €200,000 in funding through the Erasmus+ grant. The Erasmus+ programme started seven years ago in the college and allows students to take part in placement internationally in a number of…
  • May 06, 2022

    Galway businesses set for multi-million euro boost from cruise passengers over summer

    Businesses in Galway City could benefit to the tune of almost €2 million over the course of the summer months from passengers aboard cruise ships which are due to anchor off Galway Bay. That's according to a report in the Galway City Tribune which says that a…
  • May 06, 2022

    Sport Minister to attend sod-turning for the Colm Horkan Memorial Pitch this afternoon

    The Minister of State for Sport Jack Chambers will be in Charlestown this afternoon (Friday) for the official sod-turning of the new Colm Horkan Memorial Pitch. The new all-weather floodlit pitch and community walkways at Fr O'Hara Park in Charlestown are…
  • May 06, 2022

    Nurses to discuss rising cost of living at INMO conference in Sligo later

    Nurses will be discussing their concerns over the rising cost of living at today's INMO conference. The Health Minister Stephen Donnelly will address the Annual Delegate event in County Sligo. The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation will also talk about…
  • May 05, 2022

    Plight of Roscommon resident jailed in Iraq raised in the Seanad today

    The wife of a Roscommon resident jailed in Iraq is calling for the immediate release of her husband from prison. Robert Pether, who is an Australian citizen but lives in Ireland, was detained on April 7th last year and has been found guilty of deception in…
  • May 05, 2022

    New Study highlights invaluable work of radio in Ireland during the pandemic

    A new report has found radio played a key role in fighting misinformation and supporting communities during the pandemic. 80 per cent of Irish adults tuned in, according to the study by Learning Waves and DCU, published today. The training body says while…
  • May 05, 2022

    Sligo pensioner attacked and robbed in his home last January is showing signs of improvement

    The family of a pensioner who was put on life support following a burglary at his home, says it's wonderful his condition has improved. 73 year old Tom Niland was left in a coma after an attack at his home in Skreen County Sligo in January. Three men have…
  • May 05, 2022

    Westport Chamber nominated for award

    Westport Chamber of Commerce has been shortlisted in the 2022 Chambers of the Year Awards. The nominees were announced today by Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot, who says the annual awards are a way to help members learn from each other's…
  • May 05, 2022

    Businesses encouraged to apply for online retail scheme

    Mayo retail businesses can apply for funding to expand their online offering and presence to customers at home and abroad. That’s according to Mayo FG Deputy Micheal Ring. A new round of the Covid-19 online retail scheme was announced today by Minster Damien…
  • May 05, 2022

    Balla playground leads the way with new Communication Boards

    New “Communication Boards” installed in the playground in Balla lead the way in assisting children with autism to communicate. The boards, the first of their type in any local authority playground in the county, are designed to assist children with speech and…
  • May 05, 2022

    Sligo man recovering following aggravated burglary & assault

    A Sligo man, who was on life support following a burglary at his home earlier this year, has regained consciousness. 73-year old Tom Niland was left in a coma after being attacked in his home at Skreen, Co Sligo on 18th January last. He suffered…
  • May 05, 2022

    UHG has a high number of patients waiting for admission today

    Patients presenting at Emergency Departments of hospitals across the region today are experiencing delays. There are 35 patients on trolleys today at University Hospital Galway, which is the 3rd highest waiting figures in the country. There are 34 patients…
  • May 05, 2022

    Roscommon businesswoman shortlisted for EY Entrepreneur of the Year awards

    A greeting card company in Roscommon has been named among the nominees for the 2022 EY Entrepreneur of the Year awards. 24 people representing companies across the island of Ireland have been shortlisted across three categories for the 25th year of the…
  • May 05, 2022

    Tributes paid to Foxford man who died in road collision on Monday

    Tributes are being paid to a Mayo man who died in a tragic road collision in Co Westmeath on Monday evening. Paddy Kelly from Belass, Foxford and formerly of Newmills, Letterkenny, Co Donegal, who was in his 70's, died when the car he was driving was involved…
  • May 05, 2022

    Roscommon TD brings motion before Dáil later on turf

    People with turf harvesting rights should be exempt from upcoming solid fuel regulations. That's according to a motion being put before the Dail later today by Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice. The Roscommon-Galway deputy is calling for turf to be…
  • May 04, 2022

    Heartbreaking news for Galway girl - star of the Late Late Toy Show in 2020

    The family of RTE’s Toy Show star Saoírse Ruane have spoken of their heartbreak at being given "devastating news" by her oncologist. In 2020, the then eight-year-old from Kiltullagh, Co Galway, shared her story on the Late Late Toy Show of losing her leg due…
  • May 04, 2022

    First onsite open event at ATU Castlebar this Friday

    Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Mayo will hold its first onsite open event this Friday, 6 May (2-5pm) for Leaving Certificate students, postgraduate applicants, teachers, mature students and families. The event will include tours of the campus, with…
  • May 04, 2022

    Carbon tax increase hitting people in rural Ireland hardest, says Westport Councillor

    The increase in the carbon tax - which came into effect over the weekend- is unfairly penalising people in rural Ireland and the less well-off. That's according to West Mayo Councillor Johno O'Malley, who believes now is not the time to increase the carbon…
  • May 04, 2022

    Dogs should be kept on leash at Lough Lannagh, urges Cathaoirleach

    Dog owners who regularly walk around Lough Lannagh in Castlebar are being urged to keep their dogs on the leash. The Cathaoirleach of the Castlebar Municipal District, Councillor Martin McLoughlin claims some larger type dogs- such as German shepherds and…
  • May 04, 2022

    200 Mayo groups signed up for National Spring Clean

    The National Spring Clean is Ireland’s official anti-litter campaign and is operated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce in partnership with Local Authorities and supported by the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment &…
  • May 04, 2022

    National Technology Award for Mountbellew Agricultural students

    Mountbellew Agricultural College students were crowned victorious in the inaugural National Broadband Ireland sponsored Macra na Feirme Business and Farm Technology Award. Students were invited to submit entries on the topic “The Technology I want to deploy…
  • May 04, 2022

    Road reopens following earlier collision

    The Ballyglass to Carnacon road has reopened to traffic, following an earlier collision. A two-vehicle collision occurred this morning at Tower Hill, and emergency services attended the scene. The road was closed for a time, but has now reopened.
  • May 04, 2022

    Stand-off at site of new Aldi store in Ballina has been resolved

    A stand-off at the site of the new Aldi store in Ballina has now been resolved. The store is being built on the site of the former Deanwood Hotel in the town. Donegal-based company Glebe Builders were employed by Aldi to construct the new store, and they…
  • May 04, 2022

    Public invited to have their say on the New National Cycle Network for Ireland

    Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) today launched plans for a National Cycle Network (NCN), a planned core cycle network of 3,500km that will criss-cross the country, connecting more than 200 villages, towns and cities. The network will include cycling…
  • May 04, 2022

    Ballyglass-Carnacon road closed following collision

    Emergency services are attending the scene of a road collision between Ballyglass and Carnacon. The two-vehicle collision occurred at Tower Hill, and Gardai and the Fire Service are at the scene. The Ballyglass to Carnacon road is closed to traffic until…
  • May 04, 2022

    Concern over proposal to ban horses & ponies from Mayo beaches in the afternoons

    The proposal to ban horses and ponies from Mayo beaches between 12 noon and 6pm daily needs to be rejected and completely taken off the table - that's the view of West Mayo Councillor Christy Hyland. The Independent councillor raised the matter at the recent…
  • May 04, 2022

    Agriculture Minister says balanced approach needed in turf row

    The Agriculture Minister says people must be able to continue to supply their neighbours and family with turf. The Government is considering banning the commercial sale of turf from September, but Minister Eamon Ryan's plans are being strongly opposed by some…
  • May 04, 2022

    INMO annual conference gets underway in Sligo later

    Nurses and midwives from around the country will gather in Sligo later for the start of the INMO annual delegate conference. 300 delegates are expected to attend the event, which continues until Friday in the Radisson Blu Hotel. This is the first in-person…
  • May 04, 2022

    Cannabis worth €30,000 seized in Galway

    Gardai have seized €30,000 worth of cannabis in Galway. As part of Operation Tara, Gardai searched a house in the Knocknacarra area of the city yesterday, on foot of a search warrant. Cannabis herb worth an estimated €30,000 was found and one man in his 50's…
  • May 03, 2022

    Visiting hours extended at Galway hospitals from today

    Visiting hours are being extended from today at both Galway University Hospital and Merlin Park Hospital. Visitors can now access both hospitals between 2 and 4pm daily, and from 6-8pm in the evenings. Shorter visiting times were in place during the Covid-19…
  • May 03, 2022

    Mayo Councillor calls for grants for young people building houses

    A South Mayo Councillor is calling for substantial grants for young people building their own houses. Councillor Patsy O'Brien says grants should be provided to young people to build houses or refurbish derelict buildings to sustain rural areas. He's written…
  • May 03, 2022

    Westport photographer wins bronze in European photographer awards

    A Westport photographer won a bronze award at the Federation of European Professional Photographer awards in Rome on Sunday night. Some 2,600 images were submitted from photographers in 26 countries across Europe. Michael McLaughlin from Westport took the…
  • May 03, 2022

    Standoff at Aldi's new Ballina store today over an alleged pay dispute between contractors

    There is a standoff today at the construction site of the new Aldi store in Ballina. The building is being built on the site of the former Deanwood hotel, which had fallen into disrepair. Aldi employed a Donegal-based contractor called Glebe Builders to…
  • May 03, 2022

    Approval for new building for Holy Trinity NS, Westport

    There's good news today for the pupils and staff at Holy Trinity National School in Westport, as approval has been given for a new school building. The Church of Ireland school is currently housed in a 230 year old building in the town. The school was…
  • May 03, 2022

    Mayo IFA Chair welcomes new silage support scheme "as a first step"

    Farmers are to get a bonus payment of up to €1,000 euro for growing silage. The Cabinet is today approving a new scheme from Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue which will entitle farmers to a payment of €100 per hectare of silage they cut, up to a…
  • May 03, 2022

    Mayo man fatally injured in Co Westmeath road collision

    A Mayo man had died in a road collision in Co Westmeath, while his wife is in a serious condition in hospital. Midwest News understands the couple are from the Foxford area, and were travelling to Dublin when the collision occurred yesterday evening. Their…
  • May 03, 2022

    Claremorris Agricultural Show returns this summer

    The 2022 Claremorris Agricultural Show returns on Sunday the 31st of July following an absence of 3 years due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The event, long recognised as one of the premier shows in the western region, will once again host a huge array of features…
  • May 03, 2022

    Seven pesticide exceedances detected across Mayo drinking water supplies last year

    Seven exceedances of the pesticide MCPA have been detected in the public drinking water supplies in Louisburgh and Newport in 2021. These exceedances were detected as part of Irish Water’s public water supply monitoring programme. MCPA is still the most…
  • May 03, 2022

    Farmers look set to benefit from a bonus payment for growing silage

    The Irish Farmers Association is welcoming a new 55 million euro support scheme for growing silage. Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue will today ask his cabinet colleagues to sign off on the plan which will see farmers paid 100 euro per hectare for all…
  • May 03, 2022

    Clearer spells expected by the weekend

    Clearer spells of weather are expected by next weekend. Met Éireann says low pressure overhead will lead to cloudy weather this week. It follows some disappointing spells endured over the Bank Holiday weekend. Mark Bowe, Met Éireann Meteorologist, says it'll…
  • May 03, 2022

    Achill RNLI assist in medical evacuation from Inisturk

    Achill Island RNLI responded to a request for assistance with the medical evacuation of a patient on Inisturk yesterday. The volunteer lifeboat crew launched shortly before 5pm yesterday evening, with Coxswain, Dave Curtis, and 5 crew on board. It followed a…
  • May 02, 2022

    People advised to shop around following latest carbon tax increase

    People's pockets are going to be hit as the latest carbon tax increases came into effect yesterday.Oil, gas, coal, briquettes and electricity are all increasing in price.The average gas and home heating oil bill is now going up substantially for hard pressed…
  • May 02, 2022

    Former Minister says proposed bans on turf will not work

    The proposed cap on the exemption for communities selling turf cannot and will not work according to a former Rural Development minister.Last month, the Green Party leader Eamon Ryan floated the idea that communities with up to 500 people may be exempt from…
  • May 01, 2022

    Planning to be sought shortly for new 50-bed unit at Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon

    The HSE is to submit an application in the coming weeks for planning permission for the new 50-bed unit at the Sacred Heart Hospital in Roscommon. The long-promised new unit is required to bring the long-stay residential home up to HIQA standards. Work was…
  • May 01, 2022

    Papal Nuncio to Ireland is being transferred to Prague

    The Papal Nuncio to Ireland is ending his six-year term of office and is being transferred to Prague. The announcement was confirmed today by the Vatican, as Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo was in Galway Cathedral for the installation of the new Bishop of…
  • May 01, 2022

    FG hopeful solution can be found on turf ban proposal

    The Minister for Higher Education says he believes a solution can be found on the proposal to ban the sale of turf. The plan, put forward by Environment Minister Eamon Ryan, has angered rural backbench Fine Gael and Fianna Fail TDs. Draft regulations are…
  • May 01, 2022

    New Bishop of Galway will be installed this afternoon

    The new Bishop of Galway will be installed this afternoon in Galway Cathedral. At 3pm Mass, Bishop Michael Duignan - the current Bishop of Clonfert- will also be installed as the Bishop of Galway, Kilmacduagh and Apostolic Administrator of Kilfenora. The two…
  • May 01, 2022

    Carbon tax increase on heating fuels from today

    A carbon tax increase on heating fuels has come into effect for households across the country. It means it will now cost an extra 20 euro to fill an oil tank, and the average gas bill will rise by €1.40 per month. The cost of a bag of coal will also increase…
  • May 01, 2022

    Climb with Charlie fundraisers expected to raise around €3 million

    Charlie Bird says he expects around three million euro to be raised through his Climb With Charlie fundraiser. It follows the huge success of the climb on Mayo's Croagh Patrick on 2nd April last, while tens of thousands of people took part in almost 200 Climb…
  • May 01, 2022

    Tuam TD claims people afraid to attend hospital A& E Departments

    Some people are afraid to attend hospital Accident and Emergency Departments because of the fear of being left on a trolley for hours. Galway East TD Sean Canney made the comment, after figures released by the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation show…
  • May 01, 2022

    Women's mini-marathon in Castlebar today - some road closures

    Women from all over the country are gathering in Castlebar this morning to take part in the West of Ireland Women's Mini-Marathon. A number of roads in the Castlebar area will be closed for several hours today, to faciliatate the 10km run / walk, which starts…
  • Apr 30, 2022

    Sligo University Hospital one of the most overcrowded hospitals this month

    April 21st was the worst day for overcrowding in any Irish hospital, according to the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation. It says 126 patients were without a bed in University Hospital Limerick on that date. 8,717 patients went without a bed this month.…
  • Apr 30, 2022

    Researchers at ATU Sligo appealing for the descendants of an IRA column to help piece together the county’s civil war

    Researchers at ATU Sligo are appealing for the descendants of an IRA column to help piece together the county’s Civil War history. The first archaeological research excavation of an Irish Civil War site has revealed details of how a group of 34 IRA men hid…
  • Apr 30, 2022

    Councillor calls for toilets at Kennedy Glasgow Centre at the Quay in Ballina to be opened up to the public

    There is a need to open up to the public, and to staff the toilets that are available at the Kennedy Glasgow centre at the Quay in Ballina. That’s the view of local councillor John O’Hara who raised the issue at the monthly meeting of Ballina Municipal…
  • Apr 30, 2022

    Some energy customers will be hit with price hikes from tomorrow

    Some energy customers will be hit with price hikes from tomorrow. Electric Ireland, SSE Airtricity and Panda Power are all increasing the cost of their gas and electricity. From tomorrow, several energy suppliers are upping the costs of their gas and…
  • Apr 30, 2022

    Significant water outage in Mayo town

    Repairs to a burst water main may cause supply disruptions to Park Road, Swinford and surrounding areas in Co. Mayo. Works have an estimated completion time of 7pm this evening. Irish Water recommend that you allow 2-3 hours after the estimated restoration…
  • Apr 30, 2022

    Over 40% of adults abused as children have not been allocated a social worker

    Nearly 41 per cent of adults, who were abused as children, haven't been allocated a social worker. Tusla says there are 1,566 open cases of 'retrospective abuse' - and 636 haven't been given a social worker. The worst-affected areas are Dublin South Central,…
  • Apr 30, 2022

    Number of Covid patients in hospital has decreased by 75% this month

    The number of Covid patients in hospital has decreased by 75 per cent this month. There were nearly 1,400 at the start of April - but only 379 now. The Department of Health says it won't be publishing daily Covid case numbers from today onwards - after doing…
  • Apr 30, 2022

    Rise in number of search and rescue incidents

    There has been a seasonable rise in the number of search and rescue incidents across the country. More than 600 incidents on the water have been recorded so far this year. The Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland are jointly asking people this bank…
  • Apr 30, 2022

    Mayo Day 2022 is underway

    Mayo Day 2022 is underway with a wide array of events taking place throughout the county. There are events in Castlebar at the Mall, Lough Lannagh, the Pavilion Road car park, the Military Barracks, Market Square and Linenhall Arts Centre as well as on the…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    Two thousand new Covid-19 cases confirmed this evening

    The Department of Health says it will no longer publish daily covid figures. Instead the information will be updated regularly on the covid hub. 2000 cases has been confirmed today, 980 by PCR and 1020 antigen tests. 378 covid patients are in hospital of whom…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    US President sends letter supporting Mayo Day

    President of the United States, Joe Biden has penned a letter with a message to Mayo people around the globe for tomorrow (Saturday), Mayo Day 2022 - a day to celebrate Mayo people in Mayo communities around the world. In his letter the US President writes…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    Today is annual donation day for "Make a Wish Foundation"

    Make-A-Wish, is celebrating its 30th year of granting wishes to children throughout Ireland who are living with life threatening illnesses. Today, (Friday, 29th April) the charity’s annual donation day is taking place. Make-A-Wish grants wishes to seriously…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    24 years after the murder of Eddie Fitzmaurice, gardai renew public appeal for information

    On the 5th of May 1998, 83 years old Eddie Fitzmaurice of Bellaghy Charlestown was found dead in the bedroom of his home. The elderly draper lived alone and was assaulted and died in a burglary at his home. A murder investigation got underway by gardai and…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    Biodiversity gift to the people of Mayo revealed today

    37 acres of a new woodland located at Madogue, Charlestown was officially opened today. The “Martin Neary Woodland”, located between Charlestown and Swinford, was officially opened by the Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity, Pippa Hackett. A…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    Minister promises that fuel poverty will be addressed in the wake of a ban on the sale of turf

    This morning the “Martin Neary Woodland”, located between Charlestown and Swinford, was officially opened by the Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity, Pippa Hackett. The sun shone as a large crowd gathered for the celebrations where tea, coffees,…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    The Martin Neary Woodland officially opened today outside Charlestown

    A 78-year-old man from Madogue, Charlelestown has bequeathed his 37-acre holding for community and recreational purposes to the people of county Mayo. The gift is the creation of a biodiverse woodland, named after himself – “The Martin Neary Woodland”, and…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    The Make-A-Wish charity's annual fundraiser takes place today

    Make-A-Wish, is celebrating its 30th year of granting wishes to children throughout Ireland who are living with life threatening illnesses. Today, the charity’s annual donation day is taking place. Make-A-Wish grants wishes to seriously ill children who are…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    Minster of State to attend official engagement in Mayo this morning

    The Minister of State Pippa Hackett will be in her native county Mayo this morning for an official engagement. Senator Hackett, the Minister of State at the Dept of Agriculture, Food and the Marine will officially open the Martin Neary Woodland, located…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    Applications for school transport close today

    Applications for school transport for the new school year will close today. It applies only for new applicants seeking primary and/or post-primary school transport for 2022/2023, which includes students starting school in September this year. It also applies…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    Oíche Ghaelach in Claremorris on Friday, May 6th

    Conradh na Gaeilge will host an Oíche Ghaelach for all with an interest in the Irish language in Michael Warde’s, Claremorris on Friday 6th May. There will be music, food and entertainment and an opportunity to catch up with friends after the break caused by…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    KBC extends closure notice for current account holders

    KBC extending the notice it's giving customers to close their current accounts. The bank is exiting the Irish market this year and had signalled customers would have 90 days to switch their accounts to other financial institutions. However today its announced…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    Heritage Minister supports Garda investigation into Galway fire

    Heritage Minister Malcolm Noonan has supported a full investigation by An Garda Siochana into the causes of a major fire at Curraghline Bog in County Galway. The site is an important habitat for breeding waders including the critically endangered Curlew.…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    Mayo man faces trial for alleged hospice property sale fraud

    A former head of finance at the country's largest hospice is to face trial on a charge of deception arising out of an alleged loss making sale of a property by the hospice. Denis Maguire, 64, the former head of finance at Our Lady's Hospice in Harold's Cross…
  • Apr 29, 2022

    Major archaeological find related to the Irish Civil War discovered in Sligo

    The first archaeological research excavation of an Irish Civil War site has revealed details of how a group of 34 IRA men hid out in a cave in Co Sligo for six weeks in 1922. A team of archaeologists carried out the excavation in the small cave in the Dartry…
  • Apr 28, 2022

    Chairman of Consumers Association calls on the Central Bank to step up and ensure customers are treated fairly as Ulster Bank and KBC pull out of the market

    The statement by the Central Bank that banks must do more to facilitate hundreds of thousands of customers being forced to move their accounts as Ulster Bank and KBC prepare to shut down their Irish businesses – has been welcomed by the Chairman of the…
  • Apr 28, 2022

    N84 road has re-opened to traffic this afternoon

    Curraghline on the Headford Road has re-opened to traffic this afternoon. It was closed earlier today as the emergency services were dealing with a large gorse fire. Five units of the fire brigade were required to bring the large blaze under control late last…
  • Apr 28, 2022

    2022 Fleadh Cheoil Mhaigh Eo to take place on Achill

    The 2022 Fleadh Cheoil Mhaigh Eo will take place in Achill on the weekend of May 7th and 8th. The last time Scoil Acla CCÉ hosted the county Fleadh was in 1996. Competitions will take place on both days at venues across the island. The official Fleadh Mass…