Cold weather set to continue this week

Mar 31, 2023

Excitement building in Mayo with potential visit of US President in three weeks time

U.S President Joe Biden will explore his family heritage in Mayo and Louth and as part of a five day trip to Ireland next month. He will arrive in Belfast on Tuesday April 11th before going to Dublin the following day and will depart Ireland on April 15th.…

Mar 31, 2023

Nearly 200 children have died while in state care over the past decade

Almost 200 children have died while in state care, or while known to child protection services, in the past decade. 23 lost their lives while being looked after by Tusla, either in foster care or residential placements. 176 have died since 2013 while known to…

Mar 31, 2023

Bank of Ireland to increase fixed mortgage interest rates from today

Bank of Ireland is increasing its interest rates on fixed mortgages by 0.5 percentage points. The change will apply to new and existing customers from today. Variable and tracker rates remain unchanged. The European Central Bank has increased its interest…

Mar 31, 2023

Yeats Trail in Sligo will be officially opened today

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys will be visiting Sligo today where she will officially open the Yeats Trail, a major new tourism and cultural project in the county. The trail covers 14 different sites in Sligo and has…

Mar 31, 2023

Galway Medtech firm announce 25 new jobs

25 new jobs are to be created by Galway based medtech firm, Bluedrop Medical. The move follows the raising by the company of €10.5m in new investment. The fundraising was led by Atlantic Bridge and Elkstone, and included the European Innovation Council Fund,…

Mar 31, 2023

Ulster Bank In-Branch transactions to cease today

Today is the final day that Ulster Bank customers will be able to carry out in-branch transactions, other than those related to account closures. The move is the latest milestone as the bank winds down its operations in Ireland. The bank's services through An…

Mar 31, 2023

Investigation into organised crime in Sligo leads to searches in Spain

An investigation between An Garda Síochána and Spanish Police have led to a number of searches being carried out in Alicante, Spain. The searches were part of an ongoing investigation targeting organised crime in Sligo. Sligo Gardai are being supported by…

Mar 31, 2023

Event taking place in Furbo today celebrating Gaeltacht women in business

Today, Údarás na Gaeltachta & Atlantic Technological University (ATU) will host a celebration of Gaeltacht women in Business at the Connemara Coast Hotel in Furbo. There will be an event to celebrate all female entrepreneurs who have started businesses or are…

Mar 31, 2023

US President to begin his 5 day Irish visit on April 11th

US President Joe Biden is set to begin a five-day visit to the island of Ireland in Belfast on 11 April. According to RTE, he will arrive in Dublin the following day and will depart on 15 April. During his visit, Mr Biden will meet President Michael D Higgins…

Mar 31, 2023

Quarter of households say if their energy bill rises again, they would not be able to pay it

Almost half of Irish householders went cold to cut bills during the winter energy crisis. The Irish Independent reports around 80 per cent of people had to take steps to curb their energy use. Between 25-33 per cent of people said they would not be able to…

Mar 31, 2023

High failure rate of inspected septic tanks in Mayo poses a major threat to the environment

At present in Mayo there is a 74 percent failure rate of septic tanks inspected by Mayo County Council. With 30,000 homes in the county using septic tanks, this is a major threat to the environment, according to Westport based Fine Gael councillor Peter…

Mar 31, 2023

Gardai in Loughrea seeking assistance in locating a man missing in Portumna

Gardaí in Loughrea are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 25-year-old Shane Walsh who was last seen in Portumna, County Galway on last Wednesday, 29th March. Shane is described as approximately 6ft tall, with brown shaved hair and…

Mar 30, 2023

N84 between Headford and Galway city closed following road traffic accident

Gardai are currently at the scene of a collision between Galway city and Headford this afternoon. The collision occurred on the Curraghline after 1 o'clock this afternoon. The road is closed to traffic and diversions are in place. Gardai are advising…

Mar 30, 2023

County Galway farmer found guilty of the manslaughter of his Aunt, Chrissie Treacy five years ago

A county Galway farmer has been found not guilty of murdering his aunt, but guilty of her manslaughter. Michael Scott, of Gortanumera, Portumna, claimed he accidentally ran over Chrissie Treacy in his JCB teleporter on the 27th of April 2018. Following a…

Mar 30, 2023

Funding of just over €5 million euro announced for Ireland West Airport Knock under the Regional Airports programme

Capital funding of just over €5 million euro has been announced for Ireland West Airport under the Regional Airports Programme 2021-2025. This announcement has been confirmed to Midwest News by Minister of State Dara Calleary. The Programme will support major…

Mar 30, 2023

Some motorists have two NCT tests within four months, as delays to secure tests intensify, according to Castlebar councillor

Members of Castlebar Municipal District are calling on the Road Safety Authority and the government, to give motorists a 12 month NCT cert, from whatever date they manage to secure the test Over 425 thousand vehicles nationally are currently overdue for the…

Mar 30, 2023

Plight of a NS in county Leitrim seeking an extension, raised in the Dail by deputy Marian Harkin

The principal of a primary school in county Leitrim, was a pupil in third class in Leckaun NS when the school originally applied for additional accommodation in 1993. “Last August she was told the application was at the final stage of assessment, that’s 30…

Mar 30, 2023

Green light for Tesco Ballina's revamped store

Planning permission has been granted by Mayo County Council to TESCO Ireland Ltd for long awaited proposed improvement works at the Ballina store. The authority has granted conditional planning for the refurbishment of the Ballina store. The works will…

Mar 30, 2023

LISTEN: Minister Peter Burke speaks to Midwest News about the Defence Force review and the Government's motion of confidence win

The Minister of State for European Affairs, Peter Burke TD, today congratulated 17 local authorities and library services who have been awarded funding under the Department of Foreign Affairs’ 2023 EU50 Local Government Grant Scheme. A total of €119,700 has…

Mar 30, 2023

The road into Balla on the Claremorris side needs to be upgraded to the standard of road on the Castlebar side entrance, according to Balla N60 Group

The community of Balla, and motorists who travel along the N60 from Balla to Claremorris are all asked to give their views on how the 1.3 km of road that leads out from Balla, the Claremorris side, can be made safer for all road users. Submissions are being…

Mar 30, 2023

Lowest number of HAP rentals recorded

Just 29 properties were available to rent for people accessing the Housing Assistant Payment over the last month. That's according to the Simon Communities of Ireland's quarterly 'Locked Out of the Market' report. The report found that 672 properties were…

Mar 30, 2023

Four in five restaurants will look to increase prices over the coming year

Four in five restaurants will look to increase prices over the coming year to mitigate against rising costs. A new survey has found that 67 per cent of restaurants fear they will have to close over the next 12 months as a result of staffing pressures and…

Mar 30, 2023

Councillor raises concern that the Headquarters of the new Policing Division in Castlebar will be left without a Superintendent from May

There are no plans to replace Detective Superintendent Joe McKenna who he retires from the Castlebar HQ. This news was confirmed at a recent Joint Policing Committee meeting which local Councillor Christy Hyland says is terrible news for the West of Ireland.…

Mar 30, 2023

Fiscal council recommends Government set up State Pension Fund

The Fiscal Council says a long-term approach is needed when it comes to managing and funding the pension system. It's expected to come under increasing pressure in the coming decade as the population ages. By 2050, the number of people reaching the retirement…

Mar 30, 2023

Calls for one hot meal a day for every schoolchild

Hot school meals are set to be extended to all remaining Deis schools this September. Under plans approved by Cabinet this week, it will be also extended to all other schools across the country from next year. It comes following a report highlighting how the…

Mar 30, 2023

Protest outside the Dail this lunchtime over eviction ban

A campaign group believes the politicians will be forced to revisit the decision to end the eviction ban as the homeless numbers rise. The Raise the Roof group is staging a Dáil protest at lunchtime to highlight the potentially disastrous impact of the move…

Mar 29, 2023

Mayo teacher's former principal has told the High Court she felt 'kind of hunted' by him after a dinner service

Enoch Burke's former principal has told the High Court she felt 'kind of hunted' by him after a dinner service at Wilson's Hospital School in Co Westmeath. Niamh McShane claims he confronted her twice after earlier disrupting a religious service to call on…

Mar 29, 2023

Sligo restaurateur says Government need to support the tourism sector

The cost of running a tourism accommodation business in Ireland continues to rise. The industry lost 6 billion euro as a result of the pandemic, according to Eoghan O'Mara Walsh, CEO of the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation. He was speaking at an…

Mar 29, 2023

Galway, Roscommon and Sligo Independent deputies today supported government confidence motion in the Dail

The government has comfortably survived a confidence motion in the Dáil. Independent TDs - Galway's Sean Canney and Noel Grealish, Roscommon deputy Denis Naughten and Sligo's Marc MacSharry voted with the government. Exiled Green Party TD Neasa Hourigan also…

Mar 29, 2023

High number of patients on trolleys at hospitals across the region

Patients presenting at hospital emergency departments across the region today can expect delays. There are 36 patients waiting on trolleys at University College Galway, the highest number in the region. 34 patients are awaiting a bed at Sligo University…

Mar 29, 2023

Failte Ireland say tourism businesses outside of hotels will lose major revenue this year

Tourism businesses outside the hotel sector face losing 1.1 billion euro in revenue this year, as a scarcity in accommodation reduces visitor numbers. According to Failte Ireland, a third of all hotels in rural areas are now used as refugee accommodation,…

Mar 29, 2023

Concern as prospecting licenses were yesterday granted by Minister Ryan for the potential mining of gold and silver across a wide area of east Mayo

Prospecting licenses were yesterday granted by the Minister for the Environment to an Australian company to explore the potential for the mining of base metals, gold, silver and platinum across a wide area of East Mayo. The Mayo Environmental Group, that…

Mar 29, 2023

Ceide Fields Visitor Centre re-opens for 2023

Locals and visitors alike are invited to “step into our story” as a number of the national landmarks across Mayo that the OPW holds in trust for the nation reopen for the season. Across the country, 70 historical and heritage sites are now opening to the…

Mar 29, 2023

High prices set to continue impacting Irish householders for some time

High prices will continue to impact on vulnerable households here for some time. However the latest assessment by the ESRI is pointing to continued growth in the Irish economy both this year and next. Its down to a better than expected international outlook.…

Mar 29, 2023

Comedian Paul O'Grady has died at the age of 67

Comedian and presenter Paul O'Grady's died at the age of 67. His family say he passed way "unexpectedly but peacefully" yesterday evening. His father was Irish and had grown up in Ballincurry, County Roscommon, before moving to England in 1936 and settling in…

Mar 29, 2023

Two Russian government ships spotted off the west coast this week

The Defence Forces deployed ships and aircraft this week after spotting Russian government ships off the west coast of Ireland. The Irish Times reports the Air Corps and Navy were sent to monitor the two ships capable of interfering with sub-sea cables. But…

Mar 29, 2023

Listed house prices fall for the first time in a decade

For the first time in a decade there has been a fall in listed house prices.. House prices fell by 0.3 per cent in the first three months of the year according to the latest Daft.ie House Price Report The number of homes available to buy at the beginning of…

Mar 29, 2023

Labour urges Independent TD's to support motion of no confidence in Government today

The Labour leader, Ivana Bacik, is urging Independent TDs to step up and support the party's motion of no confidence in the Government over the lifting of the evictions ban. The Coalition has tabled a counter motion and this will be debated in the chamber…

Mar 28, 2023

Sinn Fein to present a bill before the Dail this evening over the eviction ban

The Taoiseach has accused Sinn Féin of exploiting people's fears around housing, as it continues its campaign to extend the eviction ban. Sinn Féin will present a bill before the Dail this evening, seeking to extend the ban until January 31st, 2024. Mary Lou…

Mar 28, 2023

More resources needed for the Mayo Garda Drugs Unit, according to Ballinrobe councillor

Additional resources for the Mayo Garda Drugs Detection Unit to clampdown on the sale and supply of drugs across the county, was sought by members of the county Joint Policing Committee who met on Friday last. Ballinrobe based Fianna Fail councillor Damian…

Mar 28, 2023

Over €278,000 has been awarded to 5 Mayo projects under Historic Structures Fund

Funding of over €278,000 has been granted today to 5 projects in Mayo under the Historic Structures Fund. That's according to Minister Dara Calleary. The focus of the fund is on the conservation and enhancement of historic structures and buildings for the…

Mar 28, 2023

The Immigration Office from the Mayo/ Roscommon/ Longford Division Headquarters in Castlebar is relocating to Ballyhaunis Garda station

Despite some opposition to the plan, the Immigration Office from the Mayo/ Roscommon/ Longford Division Headquarters in Castlebar is relocating to Ballyhaunis Garda station. That was confirmed by Division Garda Chief Superintendent Raymond McMahon at the Mayo…

Mar 28, 2023

People power secures safety enhancement works for a street described as "lethal for pedestrians" in Newport

A local community group in Newport who have campaigned to enhance safety along one of the town’s main streets for pedestrians, appear to have succeeded in their objective. Members of George’s St Newport Concern Group have been highlighting the serious risk to…

Mar 28, 2023

Funeral details have been announced of Killala native who died tragically in road traffic collision in Offaly on Saturday

The funeral arrangements for a woman, native of Killala, who died in a road traffic collision in County Offaly on Saturday last have been announced. Eileen McGuire (aged in her early 70s), of James Connolly St., Ballina was involved in a collision between an…

Mar 28, 2023

Woman who died in road traffic collision in Achill on Sunday has been named locally

Tributes were paid to a woman who died in a road collision on Achill Island at the weekend, at yesterday’s monthly West Mayo Municipal District. Anne Shannon (aged in her 80s) of Dooagh, Achill, died when her car collided with a van on the R319, west of…

Mar 28, 2023

HSE says all Covid-19 community testing centres will close this week

The HSE's confirmed all Covid-19 community testing centres are closing from Thursday. The online self-referral portal for ordering PCR tests will also be closed. The decision was made following updated public health advice, which states that Covid-19 testing…

Mar 28, 2023

Castlebar teacher to appear in court today for the full hearing in relation to his dispute with Wilson's Hospital School in Co Westmeath

Enoch Burke will be back in court today, this time for the full hearing in relation to his dispute with Wilson's Hospital School in Co Westmeath. Earlier this month, he lost an appeal against court orders to stay away from the school where he used to teach…

Mar 28, 2023

Gardai appeal for witnesses following assault in Doughiska area of Galway on Sunday

Gardaí investigating an assault that took place in Doughiska, Co. Galway, Sunday 26th March 2023, are appealing for witnesses. At approximately 1:40pm, a man in his 50s was assaulted by another male, in the Fionn Uisce area of Doughiska. The injured male was…

Mar 27, 2023

President Joe Biden expected to visit the Republic of Ireland between 12-15 April

US President Joe Biden is expected to visit Ireland between the 12th and 15th of April. The White House is still arranging the final details of his trip however it's expected the President will arrive in Northern Ireland on the 11th - the day after the 25th…

Mar 27, 2023

Boil water notice issued for people on the Clare Island Public Water Supply

Following consultation with the Health Service Executive (HSE), Uisce Éireann and Mayo County Council have issued a Boil Water Notice to protect the health of approximately 160 consumers supplied by the Clare Island Public Water Supply Scheme. This follows…

Mar 27, 2023

West Mayo councillors shocked that Mayo County Council has not sought funding from TII for long promised Louisburgh greenway

There was shock and disbelief at today’s monthly meeting of the West Mayo Municipal District, when it was revealed that the TII (Transport Infrastructure Ireland) stated that it had received no request for funding from Mayo County Council for the long…

Mar 27, 2023

GAA bans counties from promoting charities or causes on shirts

The GAA has banned counties and clubs from promoting charities or causes on their shirts. Central Council rubber-stamped the proposal over the weekend. It comes after a Mayo GAA request to wear rainbow armbands in support of LGBTQ+ people was rejected. 1993…

Mar 27, 2023

Two men charged in connection wit the discovery of a grow house in Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon yesterday

Gardaí in Roscommon have arrested and charged two men following the discovery of a grow house in Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon yesterday. At approximately 11am yesterday morning, a search operation was conducted by the Roscommon / Longford Divisional Drugs Unit,…

Mar 27, 2023

Castlebar Cathaoirleach warns that from this Friday, when eviction ban is lifted, there is no emergency accommodation available in the county

With the lifting of the ban on evictions from Friday next (March31st), families facing evictions in Mayo will have to present at their local garda stations because there's no emergency accommodation available in the county. That was the stark reality outlined…

Mar 27, 2023

Councillor calls for cameras to be erected at Bellacorrick Bridge to deter criminals from outside the region targeting the Erris region

An Erris councillor has called for garda CCTV cameras to be erected at strategic locations in north Mayo to deter criminals from other regions targeting the area. At the county Joint Policing Committee meeting on Friday last, Fine Gael Councillor Gerry Coyle…

Mar 27, 2023

Appeal for information continues today on whereabouts of missing man from Strokestown

Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 30-year-old Richard Nwachukwu, who is missing from his home in Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, since 23rd March 2023. Richard is described as being approximately 5’ 9” in height, of medium…

Mar 27, 2023

Gardaí investigate assault in Doughiska

Gardaí are investigating an assault that occurred in the Fionn Uisce area of Doughiska, at approximately 1:40pm yesterday afternoon, Sunday 26th March 2023. Investigations are ongoing at this time.

Mar 27, 2023

University of Galway study shows computer science lacks teachers

New research shows that only about a quarter of teachers who teach computer science at Leaving Cert level have Teaching Council accreditation to teach the subject. That’s according to this morning’s Irish Times. The report comes from the University of Galway,…

Mar 27, 2023

610 additional places coming in primary initial teacher education programmes

The Department of Education has announced the approval of 610 additional places on primary initial teacher education programmes. 320 of them will come on stream in 2023, and the remaining 290 in 2024. The extra places will be available at DCU, Mary Immaculate…

Mar 27, 2023

New National Sexual Health Strategy action is in development

49 of the 56 priority actions in the National Sexual Health Strategy have been successfully completed. It aims to improve sexual health and wellbeing, as well as reduce negative sexual health outcomes. A group has been convened to work on the development of a…

Mar 27, 2023

New route opens up other destinations as Ireland West Airport links to London Heathrow

There's good news for those hoping to jet off from the west of the country. Aer Lingus has started a new daily service connecting Ireland West Airport to London Heathrow in Britain. The first flight took the skies yesterday and landed at Knock at a quarter to…

Mar 27, 2023

House hunters who went sale agreed in Ballinrobe housing estate devastated after homes sold to a single buyer instead

House hunters who went sale agreed on seven properties in an estate in Ballinrobe have been met with devastation as they learned the houses have now been sold to a single buyer instead. That’s according to the Irish Independent. Among those impacted by this…

Mar 26, 2023

Gardaí appeal for assistance in locating man from Strokestown

Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 30-year-old Richard Nwachukwu, who is missing from his home in Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, since 23rd March 2023. Richard is described as being approximately 5’ 9” in height, of medium…

Mar 26, 2023

First flight between Ireland West Airport and Heathrow takes place today

The first flight between London Heathrow and Ireland West Airport took place today. Flight EI915 departed from Heathrow at 11:05AM this morning. This is the launch of the new daily service between the two airports by Aer Lingus which was announced in January.…

Mar 26, 2023

Boil Water Notice issued for Clare Island Public Water Scheme

A boil water notice has been issued to those being supplied by the Clare Island Public Water Supply Scheme. Following consultation with the HSE, Uisce Éireann and Mayo County Council have issued a boil water notice to protect the health of approximately 160…

Mar 26, 2023

Opinion poll shows drop for the three coalition parties

Support for two of the three coalition parties has dropped in the latest opinion poll. Fianna Fail is down 2 points to 15 percent, while the Greens are down 1 point to 3 percent. Sinn Féin meanwhile remains the country's most popular party at 31 percent. Fine…

Mar 25, 2023

InterTrade Ireland Chairman's St Patrick's Day in the White House

A Sligo based businessman was among many Irish representatives who received an invite to St Patrick’s Day celebrations in the White House last week. Richard Kennedy of Tourlestrane was invited by Joe Biden to attend a ceremony last Friday in Washington DC.…

Mar 25, 2023

There hasn't been a day in two weeks where trolley numbers dropped below 545, INMO figures report

Over 3,100 patients were without a bed this week throughout Ireland's hospital system. According to the Irish Nurses' and Midwives' Organisation's figures, 548 people were waiting on trolleys yesterday - 16 of whom were children. The organisation's general…

Mar 25, 2023

Public consultation this Monday for Active Travel Facility between Balla and Pollavaddy

A public consultation is set to take place on the proposed Active Travel Facility between the Pollavaddy Junction on the N60 and Balla. Mayo County Council are inviting members of the public to participate in this. The consulation takes place this coming…

Mar 25, 2023

Údaras na Gaeltachta launch management plan for Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark

Údaras na Gaeltachta has launched Joyce Country and Western Lakes Gepoark Management Plan. It sets out ideas, priorities and actions on tourism-led community and business development in the Geopark. This is following a familiarisation tour of the Joyce…

Mar 25, 2023

Venue change for Minor Camogie Championship meeting with Armagh

The venue for Mayo Camogie's Electric Ireland Minor C All Ireland Championship meeting with Armagh has been changed. This game will now take place in St Colmans sports Complex, Newry (BT35 6PP). Throw in is at 2:00PM.

Mar 25, 2023

Free electrical recycling in Claremorris today

A free electrical recycling day takes place in Claremorris today. The service began at 10:00AM, finishing at 4:00PM. This takes place in the Station Road Car Park. Mayo County Council have detailed that anything that has a plug/ battery at the end of its…

Mar 25, 2023

Challenging time for Irish politics according to Labour Leader

The Labour Leader says this is a challenging time for politics in Ireland. Ivana Bacik told the party's conference last night, as we face into the lifting of the eviction ban next week, more than 11,754 people are already in homelessness services. She says…

Mar 24, 2023

Woman in her 80's dies in road collision in Achill

Gardaí are currently at the scene of a fatal road traffic collision that occurred this evening at Achill Sound, County Mayo. The collision, which involved a car and a van, occurred on the R319, west of Achill Sound, at approximately 5:30pm. The driver and…

Mar 24, 2023

Clocks are set to go forward this weekend

Prepare for one hour less sleep on Saturday night because the clocks will 'spring' forward. It means the mornings will be darker but there'll be an extra hour of daylight in the evening instead. The European Commission revealed a plan to abolish the time…

Mar 24, 2023

Long delays at hospital emergency departments across the region today

University Hospital Galway is appealing to the public to consider all care options before attending the Emergency Department. The ED at UHG has experienced high levels of attendances this week, with attendances ranging from 222 up to 251 this week. Patients…

Mar 24, 2023

Man arrested over drug seizure in Sligo will appear before court today

Gardaí have charged the man (aged 22) who was arrested on Wednesday, 22nd March 2022, following a joint operation between the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB) and Revenue Customs Service. During the course of this operation Revenue…

Mar 24, 2023

Superintendent says it's been a difficult start to 2023 for Mayo Gardai and the Emergency Services

It has been a difficult start to 2023 for gardai and the emergency services in county Mayo, with three fatalities following missing person appeals, six road traffic fatalities and a murder, over the three months. These sad statistics were given by Mayo South…

Mar 24, 2023

Family Carers Ireland welcome motion from Sligo TD calling for fundamental reform of the Carer's Allowance scheme

Family Carers Ireland has welcomed a motion put before the Oireachtas this week by Sligo Independent deputy Marian Harkin TD calling for fundamental reform of the Carer’s Allowance scheme. The motion, supported by Roscommon Independent deputy Michael…

Mar 24, 2023

Galway councillor calls for all public representatives, not just females, to be included in a new government taskforce to tackle abuse on TDs and councillors

A taskforce to tackle abuse directed at female TDs has recently been announced by the Ceann Comhairle. Galway city Independent councillor Mike Cubbard says he welcomes the development, but questions why the task force is to be restricted to female…

Mar 24, 2023

Mayo Deputy says new measures have been brought in to support Community Employment Schemes across the county

New measures have been introduced to support the Community Employment Schemes across Mayo. That’s according to Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon. Deputy Dillon says changes to such a grant to CE sponsor organizations to help with rising costs and allowing Ukrainian…

Mar 24, 2023

Daffodil day takes place today

The Irish Cancer Society's biggest fundraiser is back in full bloom this year with the aim of raising 4 million euro for the charity. Daffodil Day first launched back in 1988 and is now responsible for raising around 20 per cent of the charity's income.…

Mar 24, 2023

Statistics show almost 3,000 Ukrainian refugees are living in County Mayo this month

There are 2,922 Ukrainian refugees along with 650 seeking international protection in State-provided accommodation in County Mayo. That’s according to March’s figures in this morning’s Irish Times. Around 52,600 Ukrainian refugees and a further 20,000 of…

Mar 24, 2023

New Garda recruitment campaign launches today

A new Garda recruitment campaign gets underway today. It's hoped 1,000 new recruits will be hired and trained by the end of this year. New measures to help those applying are also being introduced including early advice on the fitness test, a buddy system,…

Mar 24, 2023

Accenture announces 400 lay-offs in Ireland

More Irish jobs are being cut from professional services firm Accenture, when compared to other countries. It's announced 400 lay-offs at its Irish business. Tech Editor with the Irish Independent Adrian Weckler says its a symptom of the global shrinkage in…

Mar 23, 2023

Calls for the Government to offer more money to allow new pension scheme to work

The Government will need to offer more money to make the new pension scheme work, according to a financial expert. From January next year, people will have the option to continue working up until the age of 70 in return for a higher pension. New research…

Mar 23, 2023

Increase in the number of students choosing to sit higher level maths for Leaving Cert

A growing number of students are choosing to sit higher-level maths papers. The number has doubled in the past decade from 18 percent in 2012, to 36 percent in 2022. A grinds teacher from Maths Grinds dot ie believes taking the risk to sit the higher papers…

Mar 23, 2023

IFA this morning distributed cheaper fertiliser from the North to farmers in Galway

As part of IFA’s campaign on fertiliser prices, IFA Connacht Regional Chair Pat Murphy has sourced fertiliser from the North for farmers in Galway. It was distributed this morning. “We are now at the point of the year where all farmers need fertiliser. It…

Mar 23, 2023

Castlebar Cathaoirleach asks what additional resources were given to Mayo University Hospital to cope following the closure of Roscommon hospital’s ED

As the number of patients on trolleys waiting for admission to Mayo University Hospital remains high this week, and throughout 2023 so far, the Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District, councillor Michael Kilcoyne is asking HSE Management to provide…

Mar 23, 2023

Mayo Deputy raises issue of abuse & thefts from local shops with the Taoiseach

A Mayo Deputy has publicly raised the issue of abuse and thefts from local shops and convenience stores. Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon told An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD, in Dáil Éireann that the wave of vile abuse, harassment, physical attacks, anti-social…

Mar 23, 2023

Delays again today for patients presenting at ED's of hospitals across the region

It’s another day of significant delays for patients presenting at Emergency Departments of hospitals across the region. There are 57 patients on trolleys waiting for beds at University Hospital Galway, and that’s the third highest number nationally today,…

Mar 23, 2023

Ballina Cathaoirleach wants the area looking it's best next month for US President's proposed visit

Every effort needs to be made now to ensure that when the US President visits Ballina next month, as expected, that the town and its environs has its best foot forward and is looking splendid. That’s the view of the Cathaoirleach of Ballina, Independent…

Mar 23, 2023

Tributes paid to teenage boy who died in a road collision in south Mayo on Tuesday evening last

The teenage boy who died in a collision on Tuesday evening last on the Neale to Cong road has been named as 14 year old, Zach Quinn of Woodfield, Cappagh Road, Galway. He is survived by his parents John and Julie and siblings Isobella and Noah, his…

Mar 23, 2023

Sitting Roscommon county councillor announces she will not contest next year's local elections

Nominations for Fianna Fail’s candidate selection convention for the 2024 Local Elections close this evening (Thurs) at 5pm and sitting party councillor in Roscommon Orla Leyden has announced she will not be putting her name forward. While councillor Leyden,…

Mar 23, 2023

Labour to table motion against the Government after eviction vote

Labour will this morning table a no confidence motion in the Government. It will be debated and voted on in the Dáil next week. Last night, Green TD Neasa Hourigan was suspended from her party for 15 months after voting against the Government on the no-fault…

Mar 23, 2023

Flooding in Ballina this morning

There is heavy flooding in the Bachelors Walk area of Ballina this morning. The River Moy has burst it’s bank along Bachelors Walk and the street is currently impassable.

Mar 23, 2023

More than 500 special-needs assistants & teachers took leave from work due to physical assaults in schools in the last six years

More than 500 special-needs assistants and teachers took leave from work because of physical assaults in schools in the last six years. The Irish Times reports 150 teachers and more than 500 SNAs applied for "assault leave" since the scheme was introduced in…

Mar 23, 2023

Plans by Government to free up an extra 12,000 rental homes have been delayed

Plans by Government to free up an extra 12,000 rental homes have been delayed. The EU last night put off plans for laws underpinning a new Air'bnb register until the end of this year. It had been hoped it would be in place by the end of this month and would…

Mar 23, 2023

Drugs worth over €130,000 seized in Sligo

As part of an intelligence led operation targeting persons suspected to be involved in organised crime in the Sligo, a Joint Operation was conducted by personnel attached to the Revenue Customs Service, the Garda National Drugs & Organised Crime Bureau…

Mar 23, 2023

Gardai investigating the theft of a trailer from a premises in Castlebar

Detectives in Castlebar are investigating the theft of a Trailer from the premises of Heneghan’s Plant Hire in Breaffy Co Mayo in the early hours of yesterday morning of Wednesday 22 March 2023. The premises is on the main Castlebar to Balla Road N60. The…

Mar 22, 2023

Almost 4,000 people issued with deportation orders here are unaccounted for

There is a call on the government to deport failed asylum seekers. According to a Freedom of Information figures, 4,631 deportation orders have been issued in the last five years. Gardai enforced 314 of these orders, while the Department of Justice assisted…

Mar 22, 2023

ESB profits soar in 2022

The head of the ESB Group has defended the actions of the company to support customers hit by high energy costs. It comes as the firm announced an operating profit of 847 million euro in 2022. That's up almost a quarter on the previous year, when profits were…

Mar 22, 2023

Tributes paid to Ballaghaderreen community activist and business woman who has died

Tributes are being paid today to a Ballaghaderreen woman who passed away yesterday and had contributed to all aspects of life in the town. Mary Gallagher (nee Murphy) Main Street, Ballaghaderreen died at the Brookvale Manor Nursing Home, Ballyhaunis…

Mar 22, 2023

Widespread shock & sadness across South Mayo following death of teenager in road traffic incident

There is widespread shock and sadness throughout South Mayo after a teenager died in a road traffic collision. He was hit by a truck at around 5 o'clock yesterday evening on the R345 in The Neale. His body was removed to Mayo University Hospital for a…

Mar 22, 2023

Ballina Shop owner says action is needed to deal with rise in level of shoplifting and abuse towards staff

A wave of harassment, vile abuse, shoplifting and other crimes has hit Ireland's shops and supermarkets. A Prime Time Investigates programme last night shone a spotlight on how shop workers across the country say they are experiencing a surge in harassment,…

Mar 22, 2023

Rally to celebrate diversity in Galway this Saturday afternoon

A rally is planned this Saturday in Galway city centre. Participants will take to the streets from Eyre Square at 2pm, in a bid to "build community solidarity and standing up to hate". Motorists can expect some delays, as a result. It is being organised by…

Mar 22, 2023

Long delays for patients presenting at the EDs of hospitals across the region again today

Patients presenting at Emergency Departments of hospitals across the region today are experiencing long delays. There are 67 patients on trolleys waiting for admission to University Hospital Galway and that’s the third highest number nationally, according to…

Mar 22, 2023

Sinn Fein motion to extend the evictions ban looks set to be defeated

The eviction ban for renters looks set to end on March 31st, as the government is on course to win a Dáil vote this afternoon on the issue. The Sinn Fein motion, which wants to extend the ban, looks set to be defeated after the coalition reached agreement…

Mar 22, 2023

Revlout to begin offering car insurance this spring

Digital bank 'Revolut' is introducing car insurance for Irish customers. A spokesperson for the company has said it will be a 'hassle-free user experience'. Revolut is continuing to evolve it offering, this time with car insurance. A waiting list is being…

Mar 22, 2023

The Neale to Cong road remains closed this morning following a fatal RTC

A pedestrian has been killed in a fatal road traffic collision in Mayo yesterday evening. The collision, which involved a truck and a pedestrian, occurred on the R345, The Neale to Cong road, shortly before 5pm. The pedestrian, a male teenage juvenile, was…

Mar 22, 2023

IHBA say planning process needs to be made faster to reduce gridlock in the systrm

Between 60 and 70 thousand housing units are being held up due to gridlock in the planning system. The Irish Home Builders Association says zoned land , the provision of infrastructure, and funding are also challenging when it comes to delivering crucial…

Mar 22, 2023

Calls for new laws for apprentices to ensure they are paid minimum wage

New laws are needed urgently to ensure people entering apprenticeships are paid the minimum wage. The Labour Party says the Government has the power to encourage more workers into trades by offering them fair pay. Senator Mark Wall says apprentices are…

Mar 22, 2023

New changes to the Fair Deal scheme will see Nursing Home residents keep all income from rent of the family home

Nursing home residents are set to be allowed to keep all income from renting their family home under new changes to the Fair Deal Scheme. The Irish Independent reports it's one of the measures from the government to offset the impact of lifting the eviction…

Mar 21, 2023

Teenager dies in road collision in South Mayo

Gardaí are currently at the scene of a fatal road traffic collision that occurred this evening in The Neale, Co. Mayo. The collision, which involved a truck and a pedestrian, occurred on the R345, The Neale to Cong road, shortly before 5pm. The pedestrian, a…

Mar 21, 2023

Prosecution claims Galway death was a desperate rage in a row over land, as trial of a farmer accused of murdering his aunt comes to a close

Closing speeches are underway in the trial of a farmer accused of murdering his aunt in what the prosecution claims was "a desperate rage" in a row over land. Michael Scott, of Gortanumera, Portumna, Galway, claims he accidentally ran over Chrissie Treacy in…

Mar 21, 2023

Charlie Bird Hand of Friendship Walk comes to Cong next month

Volunteers from Galway & Mayo Samaritans are set to mark a special Charlie Bird Hand of Friendship Walk next month. Samaritans are inviting any member of the public to join the volunteers. The event will take place on April 16 at 11:00AM in Ard na Gaoithe,…

Mar 21, 2023

Coroner urges colonsoscopy test for all adults following death of young mother

A Mayo coroner has advised all adults, even those without symptoms, to have a colonoscopy test for bowel cancer every two three years. Patrick O’Connor, Coroner for Mayo, made his recommendation today at the conclusion of an inquest into the death of Angela…

Mar 21, 2023

Regional group of TD's has put forward 8 amendments to the eviction ban

Supply is the key to addressing the housing crisis, according to Galway East TD Sean Canney. The government has been told that the support of seven rural Independent TDs, including deputy Canney, in a crucial vote on the eviction ban tomorrow in the Dail…

Mar 21, 2023

Emergency services at the scene of a collision at Oran this morning

Motorists travelling on the Ballymoe to Roscommon road are advised to approach with due caution at Oran, where a collision has occurred this morning. The Emergency services are at the scene. There are no further details available, as yet, but gardai say that…

Mar 21, 2023

ICSA to hold a sheep sector crisis meeting tonight in Carrick-on-Shannon

ICSA Sheep chair Sean McNamara has called for all sheep farmers to attend ICSA’s sheep sector crisis meeting tonight (Tuesday 21 March) in Carrick-on-Shannon. Mr McNamara says, “The value of sheepmeat exports increased by 17% to total €476m during 2022 but…

Mar 21, 2023

Roscommon deputy among 7 Independents proposing amendments to tonight's Dail debate on lifting the eviction ban

The government is preparing to go head-to-head with opposition parties this evening over its decision to end the eviction ban. A Sinn Féin motion - calling for the ban to be reintroduced - will be debated in the Dáil later, and voted on tomorrow. However,…

Mar 21, 2023

Mayo Deputy urges those who worked in England to ensure they don't lose out on a special concession to top up their UK pensions

A Mayo TD is urging people who have worked in England over the past number of years to ensure they don't lose out on a special concession to top up their UK pensions. Deputy Alan Dillon says there are hundreds of Mayo people who have worked in Britain over…

Mar 21, 2023

New research shows minimum unit pricing has seen a decline in alcohol related deaths

Minimum unit pricing for alcohol in Scotland's been linked to a 13-percent drop in deaths related to drinking. Research in The Lancet suggests 156 deaths per year on average in Scotland may have been prevented due to the pricing policy. It was introduced…

Mar 21, 2023

Sinn Fein call for the eviction ban to be extended until January 2024

Cabinet will sign-off on its response to a Sinn Fein motion to extend the evictions ban this morning. The three party leaders met last night and it's believed broad agreement had been reached on a counter motion due to be tabled in the Dail later. The Sinn…

Mar 21, 2023

An Garda Siochana to begin recruitment campaign this week

One thousand new Gardai will be recruited this year with a three week recruitment campaign getting underway on Friday. The Minister for Justice will tell Cabinet today that four tranches of 225 recruits will enter Templemore for training throughout the rest…

Mar 21, 2023

Windfall tax for energy companies looks set to be approved by Government

The Government is set to approve a bill to rubber stamp legislation which will bring into effect a windfall tax on energy companies. The legislation will consist of two parts and will result in gains for revenue of between 280 and 600 million euro being…

Mar 20, 2023

Galway Councillor informed by refugees of army vehicle at Galway harbor bearing Russian flag

Staff at the Port of Galway have covered up a former army vehicle that was parked in the harbour, as it bore a Russian flag. The eight wheeler OT-64 was left near an apartment building close to the entrance to Galway Docks. RTÉ are reporting that Labour Party…

Mar 20, 2023

28 motorists fined over €400,000 for failing to appear in court dodging M50 tolls

28 motorists have been fined 417,500 euro after they failed to appear in court and ignored hundreds of warning letters about dodging M50 tolls. The prosecutions at Dublin District Court included eight commercial vehicle owners handed fines between 19 thousand…

Mar 20, 2023

Banshees of Inisherin inspires online video game

The Banshees of Inisherin has inspired a new video game. ‘Banshees the game’ takes on this pac-man style adventure where the playable character is Brendan Gleeson’s Colm Doherty. You are tasked with getting to the pub while picking up items en route, while…

Mar 20, 2023

Over 300 households without power in Ballyhaunis this lunchtime

Over 300 customers are without power this afternoon in Ballyhaunis. According to ESB power check app, 346 households have been without power since around 10:45 this morning. Power is expected to be restored by 2:30. ESB networks apologise for the loss of…

Mar 20, 2023

Long waits today for patients presenting at hospital EDs across the region

Over 631 patients are on trolleys in Irish hospitals today according to the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation. INMO General Secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha said today that the HSE must direct hospitals to cancel electives and concentrate on the de-escalation…

Mar 20, 2023

County Galway student receives the prestigious Earnshaw Award by the Institute of Physics

A county Galway student has been awarded the Earnshaw Award by the Institute of Physics. Thomas Long, who is studying for his PHD in University of Cambridge was presented with the award at the Institute of Physics spring meeting which took place in Armagh…

Mar 20, 2023

Mayo University Hospital under significant pressure, with over half the patients presenting this morning 75 years of age or more

Following a very busy bank holiday weekend, the Emergency Department at Mayo University Hospital remains under significant pressure today. Hospital Management is asking that only patient requiring urgent emergency care attend the ED today, but stresses that…

Mar 20, 2023

Mayo deputy says many tenants now facing eviction are contacting her in great distress over the past week

Eviction notices are already being issued to tenants in Mayo, ahead of the lifting of the eviction ban at the end of the month, and according to Mayo Sinn Fein deputy Rose Conway Walsh her constituency office is flooded over the past week by families now…

Mar 20, 2023

Antibiotics, and medicines for the common cold are proving difficult to secure on the Irish market

248 medicines aren't currently available in the Irish market. New data from The Medicines Shortage Index reveal the figure marks an increase of 48 per cent on the number recorded last year. Antibiotics, medicines to treat the common cold and 13 categories of…

Mar 20, 2023

Investigation indicates that 700 jobs for autism services in Ireland remain unfilled

700 jobs still aren't filled in the provision of services for autism. That's one of the key findings from a damning investigation on autistic services undertaken by 'Noteworthy', a division of journal.ie The investigation found that some families are waiting…

Mar 20, 2023

Fresh turmoil on financial markets this morning globally

There's fresh turmoil on the financial markets this morning, despite moves to save Credit Suisse. Yesterday, the Swiss government confirmed a multi-billion euro rescue deal for the lender-which will see it merge with the country's other biggest bank -- UBS.…

Mar 20, 2023

Swiss President says the situation at Credit Suisse had become extremely dangerous

The worlds five largest central banks, including the ECB, have agreed extra funding to shore up the financial system, amid fears of a fall out from the purchase by UBS of Credit Suisse. Investors had feared another collapse like that of Lehman Brothers, the…

Mar 20, 2023

New UN report indicates that Irish people are among the biggest cocaine users globally

Irish people are among the biggest cocaine users in the world, according to a new UN report. The global study found one in every forty people here reported using cocaine in the previous year. The study carried out by the UN Office ON Drugs and Crime found…

Mar 20, 2023

40 people rescued by Lough Derg RNLI on Saturday after their boat was stranded on the lake in county Galway

Lough Derg RNLI came to rescue of 40 people over the weekend, after their boat became stranded on the lake in Co Galway. With the help of Killaloe Coast Guard, the volunteer lifeboat crew came to the assistance of the 40-foot vessel, which ran aground on…

Mar 20, 2023

Public exhibition next week on a proposed new wind farm in north Mayo

EDF Renewables Ireland, the company proposing the Kilsallagh Wind Farm, is to hold a public exhibition in Bangor Erris next week. The project, located in a forested area to the northeast of Slieve Carr, will comprise of 13 turbines and have a generating…

Mar 19, 2023

Gardaí investigate after sudden death near Belmullet this morning

Gardaí are investigating a sudden death at a residence which was reported in the area of Muing na Lao, Porturlin, near Belmullet this morning (Sunday March 19). The body of the deceased male remains at the scene. A post mortem examination is due to take place…

Mar 19, 2023

Support for Sinn Féin on the rise again according to latest opinion polls

Support for Fianna Fail has dropped another four points to 20 percent - it's lowest level since November 2021. It's believed to show the effects of it's handling of the housing crisis and the government's decision to lift the ban on evictions. Today's Sunday…

Mar 19, 2023

Security for President Biden's visit has been discussed for months

Detailed discussions between specialist Gardaí and the US Secret Service have been ongoing "for months" ahead of Joe Biden's visit to Ireland. The Sunday Independent reports Garda sniper teams will be on rooftops anytime the US President enters a public…

Mar 19, 2023

Two men due before Galway District Court this morning following firearms incident in Galway

Two men are due to appear before a special sitting at Galway District Court this morning following a firearms incident on Thursday evening last (March 16). A man in his 20s and one in his early 30s were arrested in connection with this incident and have been…

Mar 18, 2023

Schools across the county under stress as building projects are put on hold due to funding pressure

Schools across Mayo are being affected by building projects being put on hold due to funding pressure. The Irish Times recently reported that almost 60 schools across the country will be put out by this, and the delays are set to affect thousands of students…

Mar 18, 2023

Hospitality sector expecting a boost this year across the nation

Those working in the hospitality sector are expecting a "bumper" year for Irish tourism. Of the half a million people on the streets of the capital for yesterday's parade, it's estimated that 28 percent of them were overseas visitors. The festivities this…

Mar 18, 2023

Mayo native's short film nominated for award at Toronto Short Film Festival

A Mayo man’s short film has been nominated for an award at the Toronto Short Film Festival this weekend. Butterfly is a film produced and starred in by Islandeady native Pól Seoige. The film has received international accreditation from Canada Short Film…

Mar 18, 2023

Taoiseach says Ireland and the US to work closer on cyber security

Ireland and the US have agreed to co-operate more closely on cyber security, according to the Taoiseach. Leo Varadkar met the US President Joe Biden yesterday at the White House. Biden backed the Irish Rugby team to win the Grand Slam and pledged full support…

Mar 18, 2023

North Mayo Pub listed as one of Ireland's six best traditional pubs

A Mayo pub has been listed as one of Ireland's six best Traditional pubs by the Guardian website. Set in the Windy Gap, a narrow winding stretch of road between Wild Nephin park and Lough Conn in County Mayo’s lush countryside, Leonard’s grocery and bar has…

Mar 18, 2023

Free electrical recycling in Castlebar today

A free electrical recycling day takes place in Castlebar today. The service began at 10:00AM, finishing at 4:00PM. This takes place in the Pavilion Road Car Park, Pavilion Road. Mayo County Council have detailed that anything that has a plug/ battery at the…

Mar 18, 2023

WHO Director General says pandemic is drawing to a close

The World Health Organisation says Covid 19 won't pose any greater threat than flu by the end of this year. The W-H-O's director-general, Tedros Ghebreyesus, says the Covid pandemic is drawing to a close:

Mar 18, 2023

Gardaí appeal for witnesses after firearm incident and arrests in Galway

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following the unlawful discharge of a firearm in Galway City on the evening of Thursday 16th March, 2023. At approximately 7:30pm, Gardaí were alerted after a number of shots were discharged at the front door and window of…

Mar 16, 2023

Large crowds in Newport today as sculpture of the late Princess Grace is unveiled

Prince Albert of Monaco visited Newport this afternoon to unveil a sculpture of his late mother Princess Grace, and all are welcome. The Prince is on an official state visit and will unveil the specially commissioned sculpture situated on Castlebar Street in…

Mar 16, 2023

Major power outage in Galway today which has impacted traffic lights across the city

Almost 8,000 customers are without power this afternoon following a major outage in Galway. 7817 customers have been without supply since 9:40 this morning. The outage has also impacted traffic lights in the area and as a result there is traffic congestion on…

Mar 16, 2023

Colm Horkan's death has left a huge void in the community

There is some hope of closure, following the guilty verdict of Stephen Silver for the capital murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan. The detective was shot 11 times with his own gun as he tried to arrest Mr. Silver in Castlerea in June 2020. The jury spent…

Mar 16, 2023

Department of Agriculture opens €8 million National Liming Programme

The Department of Agriculture has opened an €8 million National Liming Programme. Mayo Deputy Michael Ring says farmers can now avail of a €16/tonne subvention to support the spreading of lime, helping to regulate soil fertility and reduce the need for…

Mar 16, 2023

Despite an 160 mile round journey to Sligo ED yesterday, an elderly woman opted to leave untreated after hours on a chair in the waiting room

An elderly woman in north Mayo that was advised to go to the Emergency Department at Sligo University Hospital yesterday due to a severe nose bleed and other medical complications, left her home at 6.30am with her son and arrived early at the hospital’s ED.…

Mar 16, 2023

Land prices in Mayo up the highest nationally last year

Over 43% of farmland sold in 2022 was bought by business people, up from just 18% in 2018, the Irish Farmers Journal’s annual Agricultural Land Price Report 2022 has revealed. The farmland market had a buoyant 2022 with both supply and prices up. The number…

Mar 16, 2023

Construction underway of new 15.5 million euro Outpatient Dept at Merlin Park

Galway University Hospitals (GUH) has announced that phase one of the construction of the new Outpatients Department at Merlin Park University Hospital is underway since the end of last month (Feb). The development includes a two-storey Outpatients Department…

Mar 16, 2023

President Higgins thanks the Irish public for welcoming thousands of Ukrainians in his St. Patrick's Day message

President Michael D Higgins has thanked the Irish public for welcoming thousands of Ukrainians into communities nationwide. In his St. Patrick's Day message, President Higgins also urged Irish people to stand in solidarity with those who have fled conflict in…

Mar 16, 2023

HSE warning of long waiting times at Emergency Departments this weekend

The HSE is warning of long waiting times for people who attend emergency departments this weekend. The Irish Nurses and Midwives Association yesterday said overcrowding at hospitals around the country is currently "out of control." The HSE have said that…

Mar 16, 2023

Prince Albert of Monaco due in Newport this afternoon

Prince Albert of Monaco is due in Newport this afternoon at 12.30pm to unveil a sculpture of his late mother Princess Grace, and all are welcome. The Prince is on an official state visit and will unveil the specially commissioned sculpture situated on…

Mar 15, 2023

30,000 euro cash seizure in Ballinrobe this morning

Gardaí have seized €30,000 in cash, following an operation in Ballinrobe this morning, (Wednesday 15th March). At approximately 6:50am, a search of eight residences was conducted by Detectives attached to Galway/Oranmore Garda station, members of the…

Mar 15, 2023

Mayo man found guilty today of the capital murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan in Castlerea in 2020

A man has been found guilty of the capital murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan. Stephen Silver, with an address in Foxford, County Mayo, had claimed he was suffering from a mental disorder when he shot him in June 2020. It was standing room only in the…

Mar 15, 2023

European award for the Western Development Commission

The Western Development Commission(WDC) has been awarded ‘Best Regional Investment Promotion Team’ in Europe by Capital Finance Ireland (CFI). The award recognises the organisations work in establishing the Western Investment Fund (WIF) and its contribution…

Mar 15, 2023

7.4% rise in house prices over the last year outside the capital

The price of homes rose by 6.1 per cent in the 12 months to January. It represents a slowdown in the growth of residential property prices, after they went up by 7.7 per cent in the year to December, according to the CSO. They rose by 4.3 per cent in Dublin,…

Mar 15, 2023

Motorists urged to leave the keys behind if they plan on drinking alcohol over the St Patrick's weekend

11 people have died on Irish roads during the St Patrick's Bank holiday period, over the past 5 years. Today the Road Safety Authority and An Garda Síochána launched a road safety appeal for the holiday weekend, advising motorists to leave the keys at home if…

Mar 15, 2023

Former Taoiseach thinks SF has ad for Irish unity in wrong publications

A former Taoiseach has described a Sinn Féin advertisement in American papers as "misguided". The advert - which appeared in a number of papers, including the Washington Post and the New York Times - calls on the Irish government to "plan, prepare and…

Mar 15, 2023

Achill born nurse who died while hiking in Australia remembered at her funeral Mass today as living a life full of adventure and love

Irish born paramedic Fiona Lavelle was recalled at her funeral Mass today as living a life that was full of adventure and travel, a life of generosity, service and love. Fr. John Murray, parish priest of Achill told mourners at St. Patrick’s Church, Pollagh,…

Mar 15, 2023

The Saw Doctors to play in their home town of Tuam this August

The Saw Doctors will play an exclusive Irish show this summer in their home town Tuam, on Saturday August 19th in a Big Top marquee in the grounds of St. Jarlath’s College.In June they will play Glastonbury, heading the Acoustic Stage at the festival on…

Mar 15, 2023

€240,000 announced for the Belleek Gate Lodge Protected Structure in Ballina

Minister of State Dara Calleary has announced of €240,000 to continue the conservation works to the Belleek Gate Lodge Protected Structure. This project will allow for re-use of the structure as a residence for artists, writers, ecologists, historians,…

Mar 15, 2023

The flags and bunting are flying in Newport for the arrival of Prince Albert of Monaco tomorrow

Prince Albert of Monaco is due in the county Mayo town of Newport tomorrow afternoon at 12.30pm to unveil a sculpture of his late mother Princess Grace and all are welcome. The Prince will unveil the specially commissioned sculpture situated on Castlebar…

Mar 15, 2023

New data shows significant drop in gangland crime since 2017

There has been a significant drop in gangland crime since it rose dramatically after the Regency Hotel shooting in 2016. Nine guns were seized last year, compared to 29 in 2017. While gardai prevented 3 gangland killings last year, compared to 26 in the year…

Mar 15, 2023

Funeral Mass takes place this morning of Achill woman who died suddenly in Australia last month

The funeral Mass is taking place today of Irish born nurse/paramedic Fiona Lavelle, who died while hiking in Australia some weeks ago. Fiona (41), who lived in Perth with her husband Castlebar native - John McLoughlin, passed away suddenly on February 21st.…

Mar 15, 2023

EDF to hold public exhibition in Bangor Erris later this month around proposed wind farm at Kilsallagh

EDF Renewable is announcing new details about its proposed Kilsallagh Wind Farm, ahead of a public exhibition in Bangor Erris on the 28th of March. The project, located in a forested area to the northeast of Slieve Carr, will comprise of 13 turbines and have…

Mar 15, 2023

Ballina 2023 committee hopeful President Biden's visit to Ireland will include a stop in Ballina

Ballina residents are eagerly awaiting official confirmation that US President Joe Biden will visit his ancestral hometown during his planned trip to Ireland. The town is celebrating its 300th anniversary this year with a huge programme of events planned. A…

Mar 15, 2023

Garth Brooks concert's was the most expensive event last year for policing

The policing bill for Garth Brooks' five concerts in Croke Park last September was 380,000 euro, which has been paid by the organisers. According to freedom of information files, it was by far the most expensive event for policing last year. The next highest…

Mar 15, 2023

Labour leader says a Climate transport ticket would help reduce number of cars on our roads

The Government has been urged to consider the implementation of a Climate Ticket to encourage more people to leave the car at home. The Labour Party is calling for the introduction of a monthly, flat rate € 9 climate transport ticket to help people make the…

Mar 15, 2023

New report shows the number of families unable to heat their homes has doubled

The number of Irish families unable to heat their homes more than doubled in the last year. A report by Friends of the Earth puts the increase down to inadequate incomes, inefficient housing, and high energy costs. It also said the Government's new climate…

Mar 14, 2023

Simeon Burke remanded in custody following court appearance today

Simeon Burke has been remanded in custody with consent to take up bail following his second court appearance for an alleged breach of the peace. He was arrested a week ago after being ejected from the Court of Appeal where his older brother, Enoch, lost his…

Mar 14, 2023

Busy Bank Holiday Weekend for IWAK this St Patrick's Day weekend

Ireland West Airport Knock is all geared up this St Patrick’s Day Bank Holiday weekend, for its busiest weekend of the year so far. 70 flights are due in and out of the airport over the period. It comes , just weeks ahead of the airport starting it’s new…

Mar 14, 2023

Moy Davitt's Deirdre Maloney Reid is 2022 Volunteer in Sports Award winner for Mayo

The Federation of Irish Sport has today announced the winners of the 2023 Volunteers in Sport Awards proudly supported by the National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships. Catherine Moore from Greenfields Hockey Club won the Galway award, Frank Grehan…

Mar 14, 2023

SCOOK project hosted inaugural gathering at ATU Galway

Staff in Atlantic Technological University (ATU) recently hosted the inaugural gathering of a new EU-funded research team tasked with educating and training students and staff in “Sustainability in culinary practices: tradition and innovation towards a…

Mar 14, 2023

Additional matinee show tickets go on sale tomorrow for Hairspray at the Hawkswell

Pop- up Theatre group has announced today that a matinee show of the much anticipated “Hairspray” production will be performed on the Hawkswell Theatre stage in Sligo. This is due to the sold-out show’s high demand. The additional matinee will be on Easter…

Mar 14, 2023

Public exhibition in Bangor Erris at the end of the month to outline proposed Kilsallagh Wind Farm

EDF Renewables is announcing new details about its proposed Kilsallagh Wind Farm, ahead of a public exhibition in Bangor Erris Parish Hall on Tuesday 28th March. The project, located in a forested area to the northeast of Slieve Carr, will comprise of 13…

Mar 14, 2023

Strandhill market opens again this Sunday

The Strandhill People's Market is set to re-open its doors this Sunday (March 19th) at 11 am, marking the start of its ninth year. With over 100 micro-enterprises applying to trade this year, the market has selected over 50 stalls to trade every Sunday…

Mar 14, 2023

Provincial win for Claremorris student in the inaugural Oireachtas Essay Competition

St Colman’s College Claremorris student Dara Morley has won the prize for best essay in Connacht at the inaugural Oireachtas Essay Competition prizegiving in Leinster House. Dara received his prize from Ceann Comhairle, Seán Ó Fearghail TD, at a ceremony…

Mar 14, 2023

Up to 50,000 racing pundits expected to attend the Cheltenham Festival

An estimated 50 thousand Irish horse racing fans are flocking to Cheltenham for the annual 4-day Festival. It's a coming together of the best talents from Britain and Ireland to compete for the most sought-after prizes in the sport. The biggest race is the…

Mar 14, 2023

Free St Patrick day postcards available from An Post from today

An Post is getting into the St Patrick’s Day spirit by providing free postcards to customers in every Post Office from today (Tuesday)which they can use to send love across the globe with an international stamp this St Patrick’s Day. The postcard’s design…

Mar 14, 2023

Status Yellow snow and ice warning remains in place today across Connacht

It's another cold day, with people warned of icy conditions on roads and footpaths. A status yellow snow and ice warning is in place until midday for Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Connacht, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly and Westmeath. The forecaster says it will…

Mar 14, 2023

The spring months are when clothes, stored products, and scavenger moths begin breeding and become more active

Rentokil, an Irish pest control provider, is warning the public to be on the lookout for moths in their premises at this time of year. The spring months are when clothes, stored products, and scavenger moths begin breeding and become more active. Moth larvae…

Mar 14, 2023

Mayo Deputy welcomes developments in the Murrisk water connection as the installation of mains distribution goes to tender

Progress has been made in delivering the Murrisk community water connection, with the installation of the distribution of mains gone to tender. That’s according to Mayo Deputy Alan Dillon, who has welcomed the update to the €6.2 million project. The new…

Mar 14, 2023

US President Joe Biden confirms his intention to visit both the Republic and Northern Ireland this year

US President Joe Biden has confirmed his intention to visit Northern Ireland and the Republic to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak formally invited Mr Biden to visit Northern Ireland during a joint…

Mar 14, 2023

Statistics show almost 6,000 penalty points given to learner drivers last year who weren’t accompanied by a qualified motorist

Almost 6,000 learner drivers got penalty points last year for not being accompanied by a qualified motorist. It's an increase of nearly 200 on the previous year, according to freedom of information figures. 5,929 penalty point notices were issued to learner…

Mar 13, 2023

Woman and her partner jaied for sexually abusing her children in the West of Ireland

A woman and her partner have been jailed for sexually abusing her children in the west of Ireland on dates between October 2012 and September 2014. The couple, who can't be named to protect the identities of the children, don't accept the verdicts of the jury…

Mar 13, 2023

Mayo Deputy claims rural businesses have been left in the dark when it comes to energy support scheme

Rural businesses are ‘left in the dark’ when it comes to energy support schemes. That’s according to Mayo Sinn Féin TD Rose Conway Walsh, who has criticised the government for still having no supports in place for rural businesses excluded from the Temporary…

Mar 13, 2023

Status Yellow Snow/ Ice Warning comes in for County Mayo this evening

A Status Yellow Snow/ Ice Warning will be put in place for County Mayo from 8:00PM this evening until 12:00PM tomorrow (Tuesday March 14). Wintry showers will lead to icy conditions in some areas, with the potential for hazardous road conditions and slippery…

Mar 13, 2023

Mayo Senator insists the government's wind energy policy cannot exclude the waters off Mayo and Galway

Wind energy development off the coasts of both Mayo and Galway has in effect been paused by government, in its newly published wind policy statement. Mayo Senator Lisa Chambers says the wind energy policy statement published on Friday last is completely…

Mar 13, 2023

Oscar success celebrated with family and friends in Foxford for the cinematographer of An Irish Goodbye

The Mayo based cinematographer of the Oscar winning film An Irish Goodbye, overnight celebrated with his family and friends in Foxford as the results of the 95th Academy Awards were announced from Hollywood. Multi-award winning cinematographer Narayan Van…

Mar 13, 2023

Break-in by thieves wearing balaclavas to a Belmullet house yesterday

Garda investigations are underway after an attempted robbery at a house in Belmullet yesterday. Its reported that a number of persons wearing balaclavas entered a house on the edge of the Industrial Estate in Belmullet, about lunchtime, and entered a room…

Mar 13, 2023

Tanaiste en route to the US for St Patrick's Day celebrations

The Tanaiste Micheál Martin's on his way to New York and Boston today for St. Patrick's Day celebrations. He'll be aiming to promote Irish culture while he's in the US. This year 36 representatives of the State will be travelling to over 70 cities in 41…

Mar 13, 2023

Best in Show at 2023 Crufts

A lagotto romagnolo who "never stops wagging" her tail has been crowned best in show at this year's Crufts. Four-year-old Orca beat more than 19-thousand dogs from around the world at the NEC in Birmingham. It's the first time the breed has ever won at the…

Mar 13, 2023

Westport is gearing up for its annual four day Gathering for Patrick this Bank Holiday weekend

Gathering for Patrick is a four day festival happening in Westport this St Patrick’s Day Holiday weekend, also known as Tostal Phadraig i gCathair na Mart. The festival gets underway on Thursday and runs until Sunday, and in addition to the popular community…

Mar 13, 2023

As Irish Cinema secured two Oscar’s overnight –celebrations locally as the Cinematographer for one of the winning films lives in Foxford

Irish Cinema picked up two Oscar's overnight. Northern Irish drama 'An Irish Goodbye' won Best Live Action Short Film, while Dubliner Richard Baneham won his second Visial Effects Oscar for his work on Avatar. There were celebrations in Mayo overnight with…

Mar 12, 2023

As excitement builds ahead of tonight's Oscars, Lahardane celebrates its strong connection to writer and producer of nominated film An Cailín Ciúin

As excitement builds ahead of tonight's Oscars ceremony in LA, Lahardane is celebrating its strong connections to writer and producer of Best International Film, An Cailín Ciúin. Colm Bairéad - writer and director of An Cailín Ciúin, the first ever Irish…

Mar 12, 2023

TII fail to attend a meeting set up by MCC to discuss its failure to restore a stone wall at Islandeady

The Cathaoirleach of Castlebar has criticised Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) for not attending a meeting organised in Islandeady about the communities concerns over the completion of the new N5 dual carriageway. Cathaoirleach Micheal Kilcoyne says…

Mar 12, 2023

Tony Christy will lead the St Patrick's Day parade in Claremorris on Friday

Singer Tony Christie will be the Grand Marshall for the St Patrick's day Parade in Claremorris on Friday Tony's grandparents are from south Mayo and he says he has always been proud of his Irish roots. The parade is the first since 2019 and the committee…

Mar 12, 2023

Minister heading to China warned about likely surveillance of devices

Eamon Ryan and his officials travelling to China for St Patrick’s Day have been issued with “burner phones“ and have been ordered to leave internet devices used for state business at home, the Business Post is reporting. The security advice issued to the…

Mar 12, 2023

Three fatalities on Irish roads already this weekend

It's been a deadly weekend on the nation's roads. Three people have died in separate crashes in Limerick, Louth and Monaghan. A number of people have also been injured, including two children. A young woman in her 20s has died following a crash in Limerick -…

Mar 12, 2023

Gardai to march in Dublin tomorrow over work rosters

The Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors says every branch in Ireland will be represented at a march in Dublin tomorrow. It's in relation to concerns members have about roster issues, and it has accused the Garda Commissioner of elevating the dispute…

Mar 12, 2023

DCU Professor claims Covid 19 spread globally because the world reacted too slowly

Covid 19 spread globally because the world didn't respond fast enough. That's according to DCU Professor of Health Systems Anthony Staines who believes Ireland's overall response to the virus was 'middle of the road'. It's three years since the WHO's…

Mar 12, 2023

Remains of Achill woman who died in Australia some weeks ago to be repatriated to Ireland tomorrow

The remains of Irish born nurse/paramedic Fiona Lavelle, who died while hiking in Australia some weeks ago, will be flown home to Ireland tomorrow (Monday) for a funeral ceremony. Fiona (41), who lived in Perth with her husband John McLoughlin, passed away…

Mar 11, 2023

Castlebar native to receive Mayo Woman of the Year Award in New York tonight

Castlebar native Dawn Doherty is to be honoured as Mayo Woman of the Year by the Mayo society in New York tonight. The event takes place at Antun’s Queens in New York City. Daughter of Joe and Maryanne Doherty, Maryland, Castlebar, Dawn is proudly flying the…

Mar 11, 2023

Mayo Deputy criticises government TDs over eviction ban

Mayo Deputy Rose Conway Walsh has criticised government TDs for their ‘shameful’ decision to end the eviction ban. There have been some heated exchanges in Dáil Éireann over the past few days over the government’s recent decision to end the ban. The Sinn Féin…

Mar 11, 2023

Free electrical recycling in Belmullet today

A free electrical recycling day takes place in Belmullet today. The service began at 10:00AM, finishing at 4:00PM. This takes place in the Civic Office Car Park on Church Street. Mayo County Council have detailed that anything that has a plug/ battery at the…

Mar 11, 2023

Reports that we're over the worst of the cold snap

The worst of the recent cold snap is coming to an end. A Status Yellow - Ice warning has just been lifted by Met Eireann with temperatures expected to increase throughout the day, to more normal seasonal norms. Alan O'Reilly from Carlow Weather says it will…

Mar 11, 2023

Man released from Castlerea Garda Station as foul play no longer suspected in Cavan death

A man who had been held in custody on suspicion of murder after an alleged assault in County Cavan has been released. A man in his 50s was found unresponsive with serious injuries at a home in Blacklion on Thursday morning. Despite medical intervention he was…

Mar 10, 2023

Almost 5,000 eviction notices issued in Q4 of last year

More than 4,700 eviction notices were issued in the third quarter of last year, according to figures from the Residential Tenancies Board. The evictions will impact around 10,000 people, with six in ten of those landlords saying they are selling the property.…

Mar 10, 2023

20 thousand KBC customers yet to move their current accounts

20-thousand KBC customers have yet to move their current accounts to another bank. 11 of the bank's 12 branches will close permanently from 5 o'clock this evening, as the company prepares to leave the Irish market. 75 staff will be made redundant as a result…

Mar 10, 2023

Man accused of the murder of 83 year old Mayo man further remanded in custody until March 24th

A man accused of the murder of 83-year- old John Brogan at his Co. Mayo home on Sunday last was remanded in custody to March 24 this morning (Friday). Kevin McHale, Annagh, Castlebar, appeared before Judge James Faughnan at a sitting of Harristown Remand…

Mar 10, 2023

Man charged with the murder of a Castlebar man at his home on Sunday evening last is due before Harristown District Court again today

The man charged with the murder of Castlebar man John Brogan at his house on Sunday evening last is due before Harristown District Court in Castlerea this morning. Kevin McHale of Annagh Castlebar was remanded in custody on Tuesday last at Castlebar District…

Mar 10, 2023

The Dutch Ambassador to Ireland is in county Mayo today for a number of engagements

The Dutch Ambassador to Ireland Adriaan Palm is in county Mayo today for a number of engagements. At noon today he attended a reception hosted by Mayo County Council at Aras an Chonate in Castlebar. He is meeting with local public representatives there, and…

Mar 10, 2023

Road closed between Lahardane and Castlebar

Mayo County Council have informed that the Castlebar to Lahardane Road has been closed at the Windy Gap due to poor driving conditions. Further updates will be available across the Mayo County Council social media channels.

Mar 10, 2023

Mayo woman to be honoured as Mayo woman of the year by the Mayo society of New York tomorrow night

Castlebar native Dawn Doherty is to be honoured as Mayo woman of the year by the Mayo society of New York tomorrow night. The event takes place at Antun’s Queens, New York City. Daughter of Joe and Maryanne Doherty, Maryland, Castlebar, Dawn is proudly flying…

Mar 10, 2023

With break-ins on the rise on Bank Holiday weekends, businesses warned about the need for tightened security during St. Patrick’s Day weekend celebrations

Attempted break-ins to businesses can increase by up to 30% over bank holidays, with St. Patrick’s Day being no exception, according to security specialists Netwatch. Carlow based Netwatch Ireland is a proactive video monitoring company that has been…

Mar 10, 2023

Sligo Bay RNLI member among the finalist at the inaugural Captain Dara Fitzpatrick Award

A member of Sligo Bay RNLI Helm was among the five finalists in the inaugural Captain Dara Fitzpatrick Award, hosted by the Irish Paramedicine Education and Research Network (IPERN). Eithne Davis was nominated for the award by her lifeboat station team and…

Mar 10, 2023

Westport councillor says Clew Bay Greenway Loop will not be in place before 2030, at the earliest

At best the long awaited Clew Bay Greenway Loop will not be in place until 2030 – a full decade behind schedule. That’s according to Westport based councillor Peter Flynn. Significant funding for the route was lost to the region last year, after Mayo County…

Mar 10, 2023

9 nominations for Banshees of Inisherin at this weekend's Oscars

There'll be plenty of Irish eyes on the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles for this weekend's Oscars ceremony. The Banshees of Inisherin has been nominated for nine awards, which is tied for second most out of any film this year. An Cailín Ciúin has earned…

Mar 10, 2023

1,250 under 65 year-olds living in nursing homes in Ireland

1,250 people under the age of 65 are living in nursing homes. According to freedom of information figures, 706 are male and 544 are female. The HSE says a number of them may have acquired injuries, as a result of road traffic collisions and other traumas. But…

Mar 10, 2023

Man being detained in Castlerea Garda station on suspicion of Cavan murder

A man is in custody in Castlerea Garda Station on suspicion of murder after an alleged assault in County Cavan. A man in his 50s died in the attack. The man was found unresponsive with serious injuries at a home in Blacklion at around a quarter past 9…

Mar 10, 2023

Dangerous roads across the country this morning

There could be very dangerous conditions on roads around the country this morning. A Status Orange Snow/Ice Warning is in place for Leinster, with significant falls of snow likely until ten o'clock. A Status Yellow Snow/Ice warning meanwhile is in effect for…

Mar 09, 2023

Almost two thirds of taxi drivers don't work between midnight and 4am due to personal safety

There are calls for a garda liason officer to work with taxi-drivers over concerns for their safety. Just over a third of taxi drivers surveyed by the National Transport Authority said they work between midnight and 4am. Personal safety was the main reason…

Mar 09, 2023

New report shows it would cost 550 million euro to make transport free of charge

The cost of providing free public transport should be invested in more capacity, according to a public transport expert. It's after a new report found it would cost 550 million euro to fund a free fares scheme. However, the NTA report found it would result in…

Mar 09, 2023

Six Mayo businesses make the shortlist across five categories in the Good Food Ireland Awards 2023

Six Mayo businesses have been short-listed for the Good Food Ireland Awards. The winners will be revealed at a high-profile business lunch taking place on April 17 at The K Club. The Mayo businesses shortlisted include: Restaurant of the Year - An Port Mor…

Mar 09, 2023

Drug seizure worth over 200,00 euro in Athlone yesterday

Revenue has seized over 223,000 euro worth of drugs in Athlone. While examining parcels yesterday, Revenue officers found over 10 kilograms of herbal cannabis, 10 kilograms of khat and 114 grams of cocaine. The parcels originated in Italy, France, the…

Mar 09, 2023

Two Newport businesses shortlisted in the Good Food Ireland Awards

With six Mayo businesses shortlisted in the 2023 Good Food Ireland Awards , Newport has secured two gongs. Kelly’s Butchers and Kelly’s Kitchen café in the town have been shortlisted in the prestigious Good Food Ireland Awards. The businesses are spearheaded…

Mar 09, 2023

High numbers of patients waiting on trolleys across the region today

Patients presenting at hospital emergency departments across the region today are facing some delays. There are 51 patients on trolleys at university Hospital Galway, the third highest waiting figure in the country. 28 patients are waiting today at Sligo…

Mar 09, 2023

HSE Health Fair in Ballycastle postponed until Tuesday

The HSE Health Fair which was due to take place in Ballycastle this evening has been postponed as a result of the Status Orange Weather Alert. The event has been rescheduled for Tuesday March 14th at 7pm in Ballycastle Community Hall.

Mar 09, 2023

New Primary Curriculum Framework for all primary and special schools launched today

The Minister for Education Norma Foley TD today launched the new Primary Curriculum Framework for all primary and special schools. It will shape the work of all primary and special schools for the coming years. This is the first curriculum framework for…

Mar 09, 2023

Kiltimagh native wins prestigious national music composition competition

Kiltimagh native, composer and pianist Laura Heneghan has been named as this year’s winner of the prestigious Seán Ó Riada composition competition. Initiated in 1972 in recognition of the creative life and work of Seán Ó Riada, the competition invites…

Mar 09, 2023

1.7 million euro in total paid by Mayo County Council in expenses to 30 elected councillors in 2022

Mayo County Council has published its payments to elected councillors last year. The total amount paid out to the thirty council members in Mayo in 2022 was 1.7 million euro. The amount paid to each councillor varies from 30,500 euro up to 56,600 euro.…

Mar 09, 2023

Funding secured towards the maintenance of six heritage structures in Mayo

Six Mayo Built Heritage projects are to benefit from funding of €74,300 announced today by government under The Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS). The scheme assists owners of heritage structures, including those on the local authorities’ Record of…

Mar 09, 2023

Significant snowfall reported in many parts this morning

MET Eireann have issued an updated Status Orange Snow/Ice Warning that will be in effect in Mayo from 11am today until 10am tomorrow. Further spells of sleet and snow, with significant accumulations of snow expected in some areas along with icy conditions.…

Mar 09, 2023

The trial is continuing today of a Westport man who admits killing his wife in 2019, but is pleading not guilty to murder by reason of insanity

The trial is continuing today at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin, of 49-year-old James Kilroy from Westport who has admitted killing his wife, 41-year-old Valerie French Kilroy, in June 2019. James has pleaded not guilty to murder by reason of insanity.…

Mar 09, 2023

GLAS advance payments issuing to eligible farmers

THE Department of Agriculture has commenced 2023 GLAS advance payments to eligible famers in Mayo. Deputy Alan Dillon said he was 'delighted' to learn the payments have commenced - some 3,683 eligible farmers in Mayo will begin to receive their GLAS advance…

Mar 09, 2023

Taoiseach says there is a deficit of a quarter of a million homes in the country

The Taoiseach says there's a deficit of a quarter-of-a-million homes in the country at the moment. Leo Varadkar last night told his party colleagues "it will take a long time to close the gap, but the corner can be turned this year." The Irish Times reports…

Mar 09, 2023

Over 115,000 people left in an emergency department without finishing their treatment last year

Over 115,000 people left an emergency department without finishing their treatment last year. It represents over one in 13 people who attended an ED, according to freedom of information figures. Almost 1.5 million patients went to emergency departments last…

Mar 09, 2023

CAO applications is slightly up on last year

The college points race looks like it will be highly competitive once again this year. The CAO's confirmed the number of applications for places is slightly up on last year. By the CAO's February 1st closing date 78,025 applications had been received. That's…

Mar 09, 2023

Details of new Primary School curriculum will be announced later

Details of the new Primary School curriculum will be announced by the Minister for Education later this morning. Its the first time in a quarter of a century the syllabus will undergo a significant change. Foreign languages will be introduced at primary…

Mar 09, 2023

Status Yellow Snow & Ice warning now in place

The country is under a yellow snow and ice warning until 11 O'Clock tonight. Met Eireann is warning of accumulations of snow in many areas along with icy conditions. Hazardous driving conditions, travel disruption and poor visibility can also be expected.…

Mar 08, 2023

Galway woman named in the the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe list for 2023

A Galway-based chocolatier, among the six Irish businesses and entrepreneurs that have been included in the Forbes 30 - Under 30 Europe list for 2023. The list of 30 spreads from artisanal chocolates, to artificial intelligence. The Forbes 30 Under 30 list…

Mar 08, 2023

Taoiseach says measure to be introduced to encourage landlords back into the renting market

The Taoiseach says more than 40-thousand small landlords have left the market in recent years. Leo Varadkar says measures to retain and encourage new landlords are needed. Sinn Fein says the government's decision to lift the eviction ban has created a…

Mar 08, 2023

IPU today called for a position to be created within the Department of Health to lead a pharmaceutical care strategy

There are calls for a position to be created within the Department of Health to lead a pharmaceutical care strategy. It's claimed a Chief Pharmaceutical Officer role would give much needed guidance within the department. The Irish Pharmacy Union made the call…

Mar 08, 2023

Collision at present on the Square in Dunmore

A collision has occurred between a van and a car on the square in Dunmore this afternoon and traffic is disrupted as a result. The Emergency services are at the scene but gardai say no serious injuries have been reported. A van is on its side in the square.…

Mar 08, 2023

Long waits for patients across the region today presenting at hospital EDs

There are long waits for patients presenting at the Emergency Departments of hospitals across the west today. There are 44 patients on trolleys waiting for a bed at University Hospital Galway. That’s the third highest nationally according to the latest INMO…

Mar 08, 2023

International Women's Day to be marked by a fund raising event in Castlebar this Saturday

Today is international Women's Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. To mark the festivities around International Women’s Day, a fund raising lunch for Rock Rose House and Mayo Pink Ribbon is being…

Mar 08, 2023

Local Deputy believes patients in arrears with in-patient charges should see them underwritten as government confirm the fees to be abolished

Patients who are currently in arrears with inpatient charges in hospital should see their debt underwritten as part of the abolition of such charges. That's the view of Independent TD, Denis Naughten. Yesterday, cabinet published the Health (amendment) bill…

Mar 08, 2023

Met Eireann predict worst of the Arctic conditions to hit the West tomorrow

Met Éireann has issued a series of warnings for snow and ice over the next 48 hours as an Arctic blast continues to hit Ireland. The biggest impact is likely to be felt tomorrow as a heavy spell of sleet and snow will move over the country, with some…

Mar 08, 2023

Westport's Hospitality Inc is a new training initiative, part of the National Learning Network

The range of courses out there to assist anyone who wants to develop a career, get back to learning, or undertake an apprenticeship continues to grow and the opportunities are many both nationally and locally. Hospitality INC, Westport, is a new training…

Mar 08, 2023

Ballina cosmetics business to represent Mayo LEO at National Enterprise Awards

A cosmetics development and manufacturing business from Ballina is this year’s winner of the Mayo County Enterprise Award for 2023. Noreen Hackett, Founder and Director of Advanced Cosmetics, took the top prize of €2500 and will now represent Mayo Local…

Mar 08, 2023

Glenamaddy teen scoops national Seamus Heaney Poetry Aloud Award

A local teen has won the prestigious national Seamus Heaney Poetry Aloud Award. The annual competition aims to celebrate the art of poetry speaking, and encourage the talented students who practice it. Luke Dolan, who attends Glenamaddy Community School, was…

Mar 08, 2023

Achill Island RNLI tasked to assist with a medical evacuation on Innisturk yesterday

Achill Island RNLI responded to a request for assistance with the medical evacuation of a man on Innisturk yesterday The volunteer crew launched the station’s all-weather lifeboat shortly before 11 o'clock following a request from the Irish Coast Guard in…

Mar 08, 2023

Irish Cancer Society welcome decision to scrap inpatient hospital fees

The abolition of the public inpatient charge will help to relieve the financial burden on those with a cancer diagnosis. . The Irish Cancer Society is welcoming the government's move to scrap the € 80 daily charge in public hospitals. It's due to go from the…

Mar 08, 2023

Gender equality Referendum to be held in November

The Government has confirmed that a referendum on gender equality will be held this November. Proposals for constitutional amendments are to be published by the end of June. The Taoiseach, Integration Minister, and Education Minister will officially announce…

Mar 08, 2023

Member of the Burke family charged with threatening and abusive behaviour following his brothers court appeal yesterday

Enoch Burke and several of his family members were forcibly removed from the Court of Appeal by Gardai earlier. It happened during the dismissal of Mr. Burke's challenge to orders from the High Court, requiring him to stay away from Wilson's Hospital School.…

Mar 08, 2023

Poisins helpline received almost 1300 calls last year over children being poisined with paracetemol

There were almost 1,300 calls to a helpline last year about children getting poisoned with paracetemol. There were also hundreds of calls about them consuming household products, like washing-up liquid and firelighters. The queries were made to the National…

Mar 08, 2023

Ireland has the second highest levels of uninsured drivers in the EU

The number of uninsured vehicles in Ireland is four times the EU/EEA average. The Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland says it's the second highest level of uninsured vehicles at 7.8 percent, only behind Greece at 8.2 percent. Figures for last year show that 1…

Mar 07, 2023

One person arrested as Castlebar schoolteacher loses his appeal in court today

Ten gardai were called to the Court of Appeal today to forcibly remove Enoch Burke and several of his family members from the courtroom. It happened as the president of the Court of Appeal was in the middle of dismissing his challenge to orders of the High…

Mar 07, 2023

Meta look set to cut thousands more jobs again this year

Tech firm Meta - which owns Facebook - is reportedly cutting thousands of jobs, for the second time in a matter of months. It follows a turbulent year for the company, with boss Mark Zuckerberg spending billions on their Metaverse project. This latest job…

Mar 07, 2023

Family Carers Ireland calling for greater supports for young carers

The government is being called on to provide greater supports for the 67-thousand young carers nationwide. Family Carers Ireland wants dedicated funding for counselling and psychological supports for carers aged between 10 and 17. A recent survey found 80 per…

Mar 07, 2023

Claremorris producer wins a 2023 Irish Food Writers' Guild Food Award

A Mayo based producer has secured a 2023 Irish Food Writers’ Guild Food Award. With just eight prestigious awards nationally presented to artisan food producers, Velvet Cloud Sheep’s Milk Yogurt was one of a select few honoured this year. Claremorris-based…

Mar 07, 2023

Castlebar man charged with the murder of his elderly neighbour in his home on Sunday last

A man appeared in court this afternoon charged with the murder of an elderly county Mayo neighbour at his home on Sunday evening. Kevin McHale from Annagh, Castlebar, appeared before Judge Fiona Lydon at a sitting of Castlebar District Court. He is charged…

Mar 07, 2023

Government's ban on evictions to expire this month as planned

The Transport Minister says provisions will be put in place to protect renters when the eviction ban expires. Government has agreed the scheme will end as planned on March 31st, and be phased out up to June. Cabinet is meeting this morning to discuss the…

Mar 07, 2023

Man charged in connection with the discovery of a body at a Castlebar house on Sunday evening

The man arrested in connection with the discovery of the body of a Castlebar farmer on Sunday evening has been charged. He is due to appear before Castlebar District Court shortly. 83 year old John Brogan lived alone in a cottage at Pheasant Hill, Cloonkeen,…

Mar 07, 2023

Father of Sligo man's partner in Australia, charged with his murder

The partner of a Sligo man who was allegedly shot dead by her own father has spoken of her heartache at his death. Her story features in today’s Irish Independent. Damien Conlon (38), who grew up in the Fort Hill area of Sligo, was fatally shot near his home…

Mar 07, 2023

Darkness last night in Erris as power out again, according to local councillor

Action rather than another answer is what’s needed from the ESB now over why the electricity supply to Erris is so often disrupted. That’s the strong view of Erris based councillor Gerrry Coyle. Last night, householders and businesses across the Erris region…

Mar 07, 2023

Snow lower than the top of Neiphin this morning in Boffeenaun

A listener took this stunning photo of Neiphin in Boffeenaun this morning.

Mar 07, 2023

Snow in North Mayo this morning

A passenger took this photo in a car travelling along the Ballina to Crossmolina Road this morning. So some parts of the county saw snow this morning.

Mar 07, 2023

Over €104 million spent by Department of Education on private school teacher salaries in 2022

The Department of Education spent over €104 million on the salaries of teachers in private schools last year. According to freedom of information figures, the bill for two schools in Dublin was over €4 million. It exceeded €3 million in five other schools…

Mar 07, 2023

Status Yellow ice warning in place this morning with cold snap set to last until Thursday

A Status Yellow - Ice warning for Ireland remains in place until ten o clock this morning. Met Eireann is warning of hazardous conditions due to freezing temperatures including icy stretches on roads and paths. Many parts of the country saw snow flurries…

Mar 07, 2023

Verdict to come today on Castlebar school teacher's appeal against court order

Enoch Burke will find out later today if his appeal against court orders, including an injunction to stay away from his former school, has been successful. Among the arguments he put forward is his claim that the legal test required to make such an order…

Mar 06, 2023

Labour spokesman calls for government backing in "Silent Sidelines" campaign

Labour's spokesman for sport is urging the governement to launch a nationwide campaign to tackle abuse of referees in Irish sports. The "Silent Sidelines" campaign - which asks spectators to keep their thoughts to themselves - has already been implemented in…

Mar 06, 2023

Mayo man who sexually assaulted his wife and young daughter has been jailed for 12 and a half years

A 53-year-old psychiatric nurse who raped his wife three times and sexually assaulted his young daughter has been jailed for twelve-and-a-half years. Martin Doyle, of Esker, Knock, Co Mayo, denied any wrongdoing and still refuses to accept the verdicts of the…

Mar 06, 2023

Closing date for this year's .IE Digital Town awards has been extended

Mayo town groups and communities are being invited to apply to the .IE Digital Town Awards this year, following the extension of the closing date. The awards now in their 3rd year, recognise and reward projects created by town groups and local communities…

Mar 06, 2023

Westport councillor accuses Mayo County Council of failing to create two key positions to address the crisis in housing and dereliction across the county

Unlike most county councils nationally, Mayo County Council has failed to create two key positions to address the crisis in housing and the level of derelict properties in our towns and rural regions. That’s the view of Westport based Fine Gael councillor…

Mar 06, 2023

Man found dead with gunshot wounds at his Castlebar home after a fire yesterday has been named locally

Gardaí and forensics remain at the scene of a house outside Castlebar this lunchtime where a man was found dead with gunshot wounds, following a fire at his home yesterday evening. Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margot Bolster arrived at the house located…

Mar 06, 2023

Elderly man found dead in his home with gunshot wounds outside Castlebar yesterday

A State Pathologist is in Castlebar today to carry out a post mortem examination on the body of a man which was discovered by the emergency services as they dealt with a house fire yesterday evening (Sunday). Gardai have mounted a murder investigation…

Mar 06, 2023

With 5 stores in Mayo, Aldi employs 104 full time staff in the county

ALDI Ireland has announced details of its contribution to Mayo’s economy and the impact of its charity partnerships across the county. In its annual ALDI Economic Impact Report published today, the company said it paid more than €3 million in wages and…

Mar 06, 2023

Man hospitalised following a fire in a mobile home along the N5 outside Castlebar in the early hours of this morning

In the early hours of this morning a man was injured after a fire broke out in a mobile home located along the N5 road, outside Castlebar At about a quarter past 2 this morning a passerby alerted the emergency services to a fire they noticed in a mobile home,…

Mar 06, 2023

Tesco has introduced paid leave for victims of domestic abuse.

Tesco has introduced five days paid leave for victims of domestic abuse. The retailer says it's an important support which can be taken retrospectively or in advance, and in full days or half days. Staff won't be required to submit proof of domestic abuse to…

Mar 06, 2023

Rural TDS group insist government maintains the provision of cash services

The Government is being called on to maintain the provision of cash services. The Rural Independent Group of TDs has put forward a motion which aims to push back against a cashless society. Members of the group have said that "by carrying cash, we avoid the…

Mar 06, 2023

Status yellow ice warning comes into effect this evening

A status yellow ice warning is set to come into effect from six o'clock this evening. Icy stretches are forecast nationwide, with hazardous conditions expected for some areas. Alan O'Reilly from Carlow Weather says temperatures will plummet over the next day…

Mar 06, 2023

Man arrested in connection with the death of a man outside Castlebar yesterday evening

An investigation is underway after a man's body was found in a house outside Castlebar. The discovery was made during a fire yesterday evening at a house located on the Westport Road outside the county town. Gardai and Emergency Services were alerted to a…

Mar 05, 2023

Gardai in Castlebar are investigating the death of a man at a house outside Castlebar this evening

Shortly after 6.30pm this evening, Sunday 5th March 2023, Gardaí and Emergency Services responded to reports of a fire at a house on Pheasanthill, Castlebar.The body of a man was discovered inside the residence.A man has been arrested by Gardaí on suspicion…

Mar 05, 2023

Castlebar native wins Newcomer of the Year at The Gossies 2023

Goss.ie held their eighth annual awards show ‘The Gossies 2023’ on Saturday March 4 in Dublin’s Convention Centre. The award for Newcomer of the Year went to Castlebar native Alan Clarke. Recent ventures into the world of fashion with Northern Hemisphere…

Mar 05, 2023

Mayo Councillor questions delay to see a consultant at MUH

A Mayo councillor has questioned why there is such a delay in waiting to see a consultant at Mayo University Hospital. At the recent HSE West Forum meeting Cllr. Michael Kilcoyne asked management how many people are waiting and the response he got back was…

Mar 05, 2023

Local councillor praises 'brilliant investment' to South Mayo road network

A local councillor is welcoming news that a part 8 has been approved for the R332 from Kilmaine to Foxhall. Councillor Damien Ryan says it’s a brilliant investment to South Mayo, and will connect the area to the motorway network in Tuam. The road has already…

Mar 05, 2023

Social media to boost Seachtain na Gaeilge

We're being urged to use and to be proud of our national language during Seachtain na Gaeilge. The celebration of Irish kickstarted on March 1st, and ends on St. Patrick's Day on the 17th. 41 percent of the population can speak "as Gaeilge", and it's one of…

Mar 05, 2023

Mayo TD says vacant properties should house refugees as hotel contracts expire soon

The Government's being accused of failing to plan for housing refugees. Mayo Sinn Fein TD Rose Conway Walsh says it committed to setting up six reception centres across the country and it hasn't done that. 1,600 refugees are being told they'll have to move…

Cold weather set to continue this week

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