Christmas atmosphere &quot;upbeat&quot;, according to the Cathaoirleach of the Swinford/ Ballinrobe Municipal District

Jan 20, 2025

Long delays at hospital emergency departments across the region today

There are long delays facing patients presenting at emergency departments of hospitals right across the region. 62 patients are waiting on trolleys at University Hospital Galway, the third most overcrowded in the country again today. 38 patients are waiting…

Jan 20, 2025

UHG under significant pressure this morning

University Hospital Galway is urging the public to consider all care options as it deals with very high attendances. The Emergency Department in UHG is extremely busy with 339 people attending over the weekend (161 Saturday and 178 Sunday) and high numbers…

Jan 20, 2025

The late Fr. Donal Morris will be laid to rest in Roscommon today

The Funeral Mass will take place this afternoon for the late Fr. Donal Morris. Originally from Dublin, he grew up in Ballinaheglish in the parish of Oran. Fr. Morris was the parish priest of Kilbegnet and Glinsk. Aged in his early 50s, he was the youngest…

Jan 20, 2025

Roscommon man who died following workplace accident to be laid to rest today

The man who tragically died following a workplace incident in County Roscommon last week will be laid to rest today. Patrick (Paddy) Harney, from Monkstown, died following a workplace accident in the Bealnamulla area of South Roscommon at approximately 2:00pm…

Jan 20, 2025

Fianna Fail members vote in favour of draft programme for Government

The Tánaiste has slammed the "negativity" towards the incoming government.Micheál Martin clashed with journalists at the Fianna Fáil ard fheis last night, as he faced questions about doing a deal with Michael Lowry - saying he doesn't believe it's the issue…

Jan 20, 2025

Mayo TD reaffirms her commitment to addressing the ongoing defective blocks crisis

A Newly elected TD has reaffirmed her commitment to addressing the ongoing defective blocks crisis, which has devastated communities across the county, particularly in Erris, Westport, and Ballina. Fine Gael TD for Mayo, Keira Keogh, says the scale of this…

Jan 20, 2025

Fog warning has been issued for Connacht until midday

A status yellow fog warning has been issued for most of the country this morning.The advisory for Cavan, Monaghan, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath and all of Connacht and Munster is in effect until midday.Met Éireann is warning hazardous driving…

Jan 20, 2025

New annual licence system to come into place to sell nicotine products

People who sell cigarettes and vapes will need annual licences under a new system.The Health Minister Stephen Donnelly's announced the legislation will take effect on February 2nd next year.Regulations set the annual licence fee at 1,000 euro for the sale of…

Jan 20, 2025

New survey shows children as young as 9 are getting mobile phones

A new survey has found children are getting mobile phones as young as 9-years-old.42 per cent of parents admit to giving their child a phone earlier than they would like, mostly due to safety concerns.The survey of 522 parents also found more than a third…

Jan 19, 2025

Farm funding needed to fight animal disease says local MEP

It's being said Irish farmers are in need of urgent EU funding to fight against animal disease. Since 2023, Ireland has seen a rise of almost 6% in bovine TB nationwide. Three cases of avian influenza were also detected in wild birds in Northern Ireland…

Jan 19, 2025

Sligo Chamber urges infrastructural development from new Government

Sligo Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the proposed Programme for Government while urging decisive action from the incoming ruling parties, with the support of regional independent TDs. The Chamber has challenged the new Government to deliver on key…

Jan 19, 2025

Concern raised over brightness of new car lights

A Sligo councillor has raised concerns over the extra bright LED headlights now being used in new models of cars. Cllr Dara Mulvey says a survey, which was carried out in the U.K., found 85% of drivers felt the new lights were too bright and posed a risk to…

Jan 19, 2025

Mayo University Hospital is the second most overcrowded in the country today

286 patients are waiting on trolleys in hospitals around the country today. HSE figures published this morning show 75 were waiting for over 24 hours. The hospital with the highest number on trolleys is University Hospital Limerick at 45, followed by the Mayo…

Jan 19, 2025

Fianna Fail holding special Ard Fheis today on programme for Government

Fianna Fáil is holding a special ard fheis today, to present the draft programme for government to its members. A vote will be held at 5 o'clock this evening, following a debate at the Radisson Hotel in Dublin city centre. Meanwhile, Fine Gael will get the…

Jan 19, 2025

Galway Senator calling for the National Security Strategy to be published and implemented immediately

There is a call for the National Security Strategy to be published and implemented immediately. Independent Galway Senator Gerard Craughwell is making the demand, after the decision by the incoming government to delay it again. The strategy brings together…

Jan 19, 2025

Western Care Association asking Government to prioritise the need for retrofitting housing stock

The incoming Government is being asked for additional funding to reduce waiting lists for homes in the west of Ireland. The Western Care Association is asking the government to prioritise the need for retrofitting housing stock. The group says bringing homes…

Jan 19, 2025

Death has taken place of former Roscommon Senior Footballer

The death has taken place of former Roscommon footballer Martin Fallon. The Strokestown man represented Roscommon with distinction at Minor, U-21, and Senior levels, which included winning a Connacht Senior Championship medal in 1991. The community activist…

Jan 19, 2025

US Ambassador to Ireland says highlight of her term was welcoming President Joe Biden to Mayo

The US ambassador to Ireland Claire Cronin steps down from her position today. Having taken up office here in February 2022, Ms Cronin said Ireland ranked as the 9th largest investor in the US and now that ranking is at 8th. Ms. Cronin said it's a remarkable…

Jan 18, 2025

Mayo University Hospital ED is extremely busy this evening

Mayo University Hospital is urging the public to consider all care options as it deals with very high attendances. As of 6pm this evening, Saturday January 18th there were 50 people in the Emergency Department awaiting treatment. The high number of people…

Jan 18, 2025

Man (20s) arrested following drug seizure in Castlerea

A man has been arrested in County Roscommon following the discovery of suspected cocaine yesterday. Gardaí seized a quantity of suspected cocaine during a warranted search of a property in Castlerea on Friday January 18 2025. The search was conducted by…

Jan 18, 2025

Historic Ballina Convent vandalised overnight

An historic building in North Mayo has been vandalised overnight. An incident took place at the former Sisters of Mercy Convent in Ballina, whereby windows were smashed and badly damaged. Last year, the building was handed over to the community by the Sister…

Jan 18, 2025

Western Care Association call on Government funding after €3.2 million HSÉ investment

The Western Care Association are calling on the Government to address the need for ongoing increased funding and pay parity in the disability sector. The call comes from the Mayo based company ahead of the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis, due to take place tomorrow in…

Jan 18, 2025

Westport company CEO to chair judging panel for EOY Award 2025

The 2025 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year (EOY) programme is officially open for nominations, with entrepreneurs from emerging, established and international businesses across all industry sectors in the region invited to submit their nominations between now and…

Jan 18, 2025

Michael Ring to be grand marshal at Westport St. Patrick's Day parade

Westport’s St Patrick’s Day Community Parade Committee will honour the town’s former TD at this year’s parade. The theme of this year’s event will celebrate community connections. Former Fine Gael Deputy Michael Ring will be the grand marshal for the St.…

Jan 18, 2025

Ballina committee established to upgrade Christmas lights

A committee has been set up in Ballina following a public meeting earlier this week. On Thursday last, a large number of people gathered at a public meeting in the town, with the aim of setting up a committee to ensure that a proper Christmas lights display…

Jan 18, 2025

Programme for Government to be discussed in Sligo this evening

Opposition TDs are still up in arms over the possibility of some Independent TDs, that helped form the new coalition, sitting on opposition benches. It comes as the Programme for Government will be put to Fine Gael and Fianna Fail members this weekend at…

Jan 17, 2025

Funeral details announced for man who died in Roscommon work accident

Funeral details have been announced for the man who tragically lost his life in a workplace accident in South Roscommon on Wednesday. Patrick (Paddy) Harney from Monksland was aged in his 70s, and died following a workplace accident in the Bealnamulla area of…

Jan 17, 2025

Galway Senator warns of confusion amongst thousands of voters for Seanad elections as two separate deadlines loom

A Galway Senator has warned that thousands of voters may be disenfranchised because of the Government’s failure to legislate in time for a new Seanad electoral panel. After next April, a six-seat ‘Higher Education’ constituency will replace the two three-seat…

Jan 17, 2025

Mayo Sinn Fein TD welcomes some aspects of the programme of Government but overall feels it lacks ambition and commitment

More time was spent drawing up jobs for the girls and boys than there actually was on preparing the programme for Government. That’s the view of Sinn Fein TD for Mayo Rose Conway-Walsh who says there are lots of aspirations, platitudes and lots of commitments…

Jan 17, 2025

18th annual Aurivo North-West Kings and Queens takes place tomorrow night

Macra are to host the 18th annual ‘Aurivo North-West Kings and Queens’ event in Sligo this weekend. Contestants from across the North West and further afield will flock to the Radisson Blue Hotel in Sligo tomorrow morning, to meet with the event committee and…

Jan 17, 2025

Fine Gael to meet in Sligo tomorrow during Programme for Government discussions

Meetings commence tonight to ratify the new Programme for Government. Fine Gael begin their regional meetings tonight at the Talbot Hotel, Stillorgan, and host another tomorrow at the Clayton Hotel in Sligo. Over the weekend, the party will also meet to vote…

Jan 17, 2025

Mayo County Council select Padraic Conroy as Údaras na Gaeltachta representative

Belmullet businessman Padraic Conroy has been selected by Mayo County Council as their representative on Údaras na Gaeltachta. The local publican and undertaker was selected unopposed at the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council on Monday last. Cllr Sean…

Jan 17, 2025

Man (20s) pleads guilty to reckless driving, endangering the lives of two people in Galway

A man has pleaded guilty to endangering the lives of two people in Galway by driving a car at them during a feud related disturbance in 2023. 20 year old Martin McDonagh, of Scelig Ard, Headford Road, Galway, pleaded guilty to three charges at Galway Circuit…

Jan 17, 2025

Youngest Irish-born priest in Elphin Dioscese has passed away

The youngest Irish-born priest in the Diocese of Elphin has passed away. Fr. Donal Morris, who is aged in his early 50s, passed away following an illness on Thursday and was the parish priest of Kilbegnet and Glinsk. Originally from Dublin, he grew up in…

Jan 17, 2025

Calls for High level group on Sustainable livestock in response to challenges facing the sector

The European Commission must establish a High-Level Group on Sustainable Livestock in response to the challenges facing livestock farmers across the EU and in particular in Ireland, That’s the view of MEP Maria Walsh who has asked the Commission to prioritise…

Jan 17, 2025

Drop in the number of jobs on offer here in Q4 2024

There's been a 14.6 per cent drop in the number of jobs on offer in this country.Multinationals have been cautious about hiring in the last three months of 2024.At the same time the number of job seekers rose by 6.8 per cent, increasing competition for fewer…

Jan 17, 2025

10 new wind energy farms approved by An Bord Pleanála

The country's a step closer to meeting its Climate Action Plan targets.An Bord Pleanála has approved 10 new wind energy farms.This will make up 42 per cent of the amount needed to keep the Government's 2030 targets on track.Wind Energy Ireland Chief…

Jan 17, 2025

Over 750 motorists fined for using phones while driving this year

Gardaí detected 266 drivers using their phone while driving during a 24 hour crackdown.The detection during the national day of action showed a four-fold increase in the number of people using their phones while behind the wheel.The figures are based on…

Jan 16, 2025

INMO and Forsa planning industrial action

The INMO and the Forsa health division will be asking its executives in the coming weeks to approve a plan for industrial action. A joint statement says both unions, which represent 72 thousand staff in the public health service, are now in the planning…

Jan 16, 2025

Calls for introduction of tax credit for gym memberships

There are calls for a tax credit for gym memberships to be introduced in the next Budget. The Programme for Government has committed to consider measures to encourage gym membership, with the assistance of the Department of Finance. Ireland Active has…

Jan 16, 2025

Public meeting in Ballina this evening in relation to next year's Christmas lights

A public meeting will be held this evening in Ballina in relation to Christmas lights in the town for 2025. Business owners, members of Mayo County Council and other members of the public are all invited to attend. The aim of the meeting is to put a plan in…

Jan 16, 2025

Long delays at ED's across the region today

There are long delays facing patients presenting at hospital emergency departments across the region this afternoon. There are 61 patients waiting for a bed at University Hospital Galway, the third highest figure nationally today. 40 patients are on trolleys…

Jan 16, 2025

Sailings to and from Holyhead have resumed

Sailings to and from Holyhead have finally resumed after six weeks, but with some teething problems. The Welsh port had been out of action since two berths were badly damaged during Storm Darragh. There have been some delays this morning following an issue…

Jan 16, 2025

Bank of Ireland take record number of calls from customers over Christmas

Bank of Ireland’s fraud prevention team received over 10,000 calls from customers during the peak holiday period – Monday 23 December to Sunday 29 December – with more than 550 calls from customers on Christmas day alone. Over the holiday period, the busiest…

Jan 16, 2025

Flood relief scheme at Lough Funshinagh gets planning go-ahead

IFA Flooding Project Team Chair Brendan Golden has confirmed the approval of a temporary flood relief solution at Lough Funshinagh, Co. Roscommon, describing it as a step forward for the community severely impacted by recurring flooding. The planning…

Jan 16, 2025

Ballyhaunis councillor expresses disappointment over Active Travel neglect for East Mayo

A Ballyhaunis-based, Councillor, has expressed deep frustration and disappointment over the continued omission of what she describes as the ‘Black Triangle’ area, which encompasses Ballyhaunis, Kiltimagh, and Charlestown, from receiving funding under the…

Jan 16, 2025

Sligo Deputy satisfied with programme for Government to deliver for her region

Deputy Marian Harkin, one of the negotiators for the Regional Group, has expressed her satisfaction with the inclusion of several significant policy priorities in the draft Programme for Government, launched yesterday. The Sligo Deputy says she is especially…

Jan 16, 2025

Successful Wren Day fundraiser for Western Care

Western Care Association’s recent Wren Day fundraiser raised a total of €3,466.20. The event, a vibrant celebration of Irish culture, featured 20 minute performances in Newport, Westport and Castlebar, by the Moffatt School of Irish Dancers supported by…

Jan 16, 2025

Mayo syndicate scoop 100,000 euro

A family syndicate of five from county Mayo have been to the National Lottery HQ in Dublin in recent days to claim a €100,000 prize. The National Lottery says their journey to fortune began with a Money Multiplier scratch card, gifted during a wedding…

Jan 16, 2025

Dara Calleary refuses to be drawn on whether he is in line for a Senior Ministerial position

The leadership of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael will spend the coming days selling the latest programme for government to their party membership. Fianna Fail will hold a special Ard Fheis on Sunday to ratify the deal, while Fine Gael members will vote at a series…

Jan 16, 2025

Man in his 70's dies in workplace accident in Roscommon

A man in his 70’s has died in a workplace accident in County Roscommon. It happened in Bealnamulla, South Roscommon at around 2 o'clock yesterday afternoon. Gardai and the HSA say investigations are ongoing.

Jan 16, 2025

Plans to build a surgical hub in Sligo included in Programme for Government

A Sligo Leitrim Fine Gael TD has welcomed the proposal to explore the provision of an additional surgical hub for the Northwest in a timely manner located at University College Hospital, Sligo. Frank Feighan says he is pleased to see progress on the…

Jan 16, 2025

Draft programme for government will be debated by members of Fianna Fáil & Fine Gael over the coming days

Members of Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have been pouring over the detail of the programme for Government overnight.The party leaders will now focus on getting the deal through each party's membership. Seán Defoe reports.

Jan 16, 2025

Irish hospitals took in 15.7 million euro in car parking fees in 2023

Irish hospitals took in 15.7 million euro in car parking fees in 2023. That's according to a new report by Irish Country Living who say the charges are adding to the financial burden experienced by patients and their families. Campaigners against the fees say…

Jan 15, 2025

Micheál Martin set to lead the country until November 2027

Micheál Martin is set to lead the country until November 2027.The office of the Taoiseach would then rotate to Simon Harris.The details of the draft programme for government are emerging, as it’s put to Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, Regional Independent TDs and the…

Jan 15, 2025

Two Galway TDs set to be Super Junior Ministers

Two Galway Independent TDs are to be Super Junior Ministers in the proposed new coalition government – Sean Canney and Noel Grealish. While Sligo Independent deputy Marion Harkin is to take up a Junior Ministerial position, as agreement has been reached among…

Jan 15, 2025

Galway VFI Chair says reduction in the vat rate as part of programme for Government is welcome, but it is 'late'

Pub owners say they're being squeezed from every angle - following news of another hike in the price of a pint. Diageo's putting up the price of its draught products - which include Guinness - by SIX cents per pint from February 3rd. The Vintners' Federation…

Jan 15, 2025

Learner drivers across the region face long wait times for a driving test

Waiting lists for driving tests are up to seven months in some parts of the country. Learner drivers in Navan in Co Meath are waiting the longest for a test at an estimated 33 weeks, according to the Irish Times. The quickest turnaround is Co Kerry, where…

Jan 15, 2025

Disruption to water supply in Elphin and Strokestown today

Uisce Éireann is working to restore water supply for customers on the North East Regional Water Supply Scheme following operational issues at Grange Water Treatment Plant. This has resulted in reservoir levels depleting significantly and some customers in…

Jan 15, 2025

ED at University Hospital Galway under significant pressure today

The Emergency Department at University Hospital Galway is under significant pressure today with high attendances and long waiting times. The hospital is also managing the ongoing impacts of high rates of flu. The ED has been extremely busy over recent days,…

Jan 15, 2025

27 Active Travel projects in Mayo secure funding

Minister of State Alan Dillon has announced that €3 million has been allocated for 27 Active Travel projects across county Mayo. The funding, approved by the National Transport Authority (NTA) and awarded to Mayo County Council, will enhance walking and…

Jan 15, 2025

Recruitment underway for 725 jobs in Galway's MedTech company Aerogen

Galway firm Aerogen today announced details of a €300 million transformational scaling and investment plan, which will result in the creation of 725 new jobs in Ireland over the next 10 years. Headquartered in Dangan Galway, Aerogen is the world leader in…

Jan 15, 2025

Mayo County Council among top spenders over the last 4 years on tackling invasive species

Over 8.5 million euro was spent by councils tackling invasive species over the last 4 years. A new report from The Journal Investigates looked at how different counties dealt with plants and animals that are not native to Ireland from 2020 to 2024. Japanese…

Jan 15, 2025

Galway based company announces the creation of 725 new jobs

Aerogen has today announced details of a €300 million transformational scaling and investment plan, which will result in the creation of 725 new jobs in Ireland over the next 10 years. Aerogen is Ireland’s largest indigenous medtech company and Enterprise…

Jan 15, 2025

Diageo confirm increase in all draught products from February

Pub owners say another hike in the price of a pint is a blow to an industry 'already on its knees'. Diageo's putting up the price of its draught products - which include Guinness - by SIX cents per pint from February 3rd. The Vintners' Federation of Ireland…

Jan 15, 2025

Deal has been struck for a new Government formation

The parties set to form the next Government will begin ratifying the draft deal today. Fine Gael, Fianna Fail and the Regional Independent Group came to an agreement on a programme for Government yesterday. Overnight Kerry TD's Michael and Danny Healy-Rae…

Jan 14, 2025

Fiction novel, set in Co Mayo, among the winners at this year's Nero Book Awards

Irish author Colin Barrett is one of four authors who claimed a top prize in the Nero Book Awards, winning in the category of ‘debut fiction’ for his first novel. Four books have been chosen as the best fiction, non-fiction, debut fiction and children’s…

Jan 14, 2025

Funeral details announced for teenager who died following road traffic collision in Achill yesterday

Funeral details have been confirmed for the teenager who died following a road traffic collision in Achill yesterday. 17 year old Luca Callaghan, from Owenduff, Achill, died after the car he was driving was involved in a single vehicle accident at around…

Jan 14, 2025

Road reopens in South Sligo following earlier incident

The R293 has fully reopened in South Sligo following an earlier incident. Local fire services were called to a chimney fire at Carnree, Ballymote just after 8:00am this morning. The road was partially closed and a stop/ go system was in place, however the…

Jan 14, 2025

Calleary hopeful that Government formation talks will soon be complete

Government formation talks may be entering the final hours. Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil are close to reaching a deal with independents. Fianna Fáil has organised a parliamentary party meeting for tomorrow, where it hopes to present a programme for government.…

Jan 14, 2025

Sligo cllr calls for Mayo colleagues to back proposal of passport office in Tubbercurry

At yesterday’s monthly meeting of Sligo County Council, a motion was raised to make a proposal to Government for a passport office to be set up in Tubbercurry. Councillor Michael Clarke brought the motion before the council, and believes that the South Sligo…

Jan 14, 2025

Erris TD calls for urgent consultation with locals on Céide Fields as heritage site

Erris TD Rose Conway Walsh is calling on Mayo County Council to initiate urgent community consultation on the topic of the Céide Fields being nominated as a World Heritage Site. According to Monday’s Irish Independent, Mayo County Council dropped the…

Jan 14, 2025

Galway nurse backs HSE-led campaign to reduce stigma around HIV

Around 8,000 people here are living with HIV, according to new figures released by the HSE. It's launched a nationwide campaign to reduce stigma and address misconceptions about the virus. Galway nurse and activist Aoife Commins was diagnosed with HIV in…

Jan 14, 2025

Permission refused by an Bord Pleanála for veterinary clinic in Galway

An Bord Pleanála have turned down planning permission for a proposed new large animal veterinary clinic in County Galway, due to the potential impact on water quality. Western Veterinary proposed to construct a clinic and yard located in Ardbear, Clifden,…

Jan 14, 2025

Emergency services at the scene of an incident in South Sligo

Emergency services are currently at the scene of an incident in South Sligo. The fire service were called to an incident on the R293 at Carnree, Ballymote, just after 8:00am this morning. Currently, there is a stop/go system in place. Motorists are being…

Jan 14, 2025

Killala councillor criticises planning process for forestry applications in the county

At yesterday’s monthly meeting of Mayo County Council, Killala based cllr Jarlath Munnelly raised a motion regarding forestry applications in the county. The fine Gael cllr requested clarification from Mayo County Council on the protocols for the planning…

Jan 14, 2025

Clarinbridge man (30s) who died following a road collision last week to be laid to rest today

The man who died following a road collision in Clarinbridge, County Galway last week will be laid to rest today. An unreported collision involving an SUV occurred on the L4102, a minor road at Slievaun, Clarinbridge, shortly after 9:15am on Thursday morning…

Jan 14, 2025

Teenager receives detention sentence for savage Sligo Halloween attack

A teenage boy has received a detention sentence of two years and four months for the unprovoked assault of another teenage boy on Halloween night in Sligo in 2023, which left him fighting for his life. Suspended detention sentences were handed to two other…

Jan 14, 2025

Research shows Connacht counties are the most expensive for home insurance

You could be paying €10,000 more for your home insurance over the lifetime of your mortgage, because of where you live. A new analysis from Peopl Insurance reveals a 62% difference in property insurance rates, depending on address. The research found the most…

Jan 14, 2025

Investigation underway into death of man (90s) in fatal Mayo road collision

Gardaí in the county are appealing for witnesses to a fatal road traffic collision on the N5 Castlebar to Turlough road, which occurred on December 29. The collision occurred at approximately 4:00pm, involving a car and a van. The driver of one of the…

Jan 13, 2025

Mayo County Council adjourn to pay respect to grieving families

Today, at the first monthly meeting of the year for Mayo County Council, the meeting was adjourned for 15 mins as a mark of respect to a number of families. Councillors paused to pay respect to cllr Ger Deere, whose sister Celia recently passed away, and to…

Jan 13, 2025

Investigation launched into fatal road collision in Clarinbridge

Gardaí in County Galway are appealing for information following a fatal single vehicle collision that occurred on Thursday last (January 9) in Clarinbridge. An unreported collision involving an SUV occurred on the L4102, which is a minor road at Slievaun,…

Jan 13, 2025

Gardaí stop teenage tractor drive with no license, tax or insurance

An Garda Síochána have highlighted an incident in County Roscommon whereby road safety standards were not being adhered to. The Roscommon Roads Policing Unit pulled in the driver of a tractor in Elphin yesterday afternoon after a call from a member of the…

Jan 13, 2025

Local MEP says that Mercosur trade deal must be opposed to protect Irish farmers and rural communities

A local MEP has expressed his concern over the possibility of a majority vote in favour of the EU Mercosur deal. Midlands North West MEP Ciaran Mullooly has called for the trade deal to be decided by a unanimous vote in the European Council, warning that a…

Jan 13, 2025

Castlebar restaurant receives six Irish Take Away Award nominations

Castlebar based restaurant Danolla’s Diner & Takeaway has been shortlisted in six categories for the Irish Take Away Awards 2025. A number of menu items have caught the eye of secret judges, with Danolla’s nominated in the Fish & Chips of the Year, Chicken…

Jan 13, 2025

Young man who died following collision in Achill named locally

The young man who was fatally injured in a road traffic collision on Achill Island overnight has been named locally. 17 year old Luca Callaghan, from Owenduff, Achill, died after the car he was driving was involved in a single vehicle accident at around…

Jan 13, 2025

Roscommon households could be hit by strike in bin collection services

Waste collection services for over 135,000 households may be affected by a dispute in the coming weeks, with services in County Roscommon included. According to a report in the Irish Independent, Bord na Móna may be closing in on a deal to sell the waste…

Jan 13, 2025

Road reopens in Achill following fatal collision

The R319 road at Keel, Achill where a fatal road collision took place overnight has now reopened to traffic. A 17 year old male was fatally injured following the single vehicle incident, which took place around 1:00am. He was the sole occupant of the car.…

Jan 13, 2025

VEX Robotics World Champions to be honoured today

A civic reception is to be accorded this evening to members of St Joseph’s National School, Ballinrobe. Mayo County County Council will host the event at 5.30 pm this evening (Monday) The honour goes to members of the primary school’s team that secured…

Jan 13, 2025

Shock and sadness as teenager dies in road collision on Achill Island

There is heartbreak and sadness on Achill Island today following the death of a teenager in a road collision overnight. Shortly before 1am, Gardaí and emergency services responded to an incident involving a single vehicle on the R319 at Keel, Achill. The…

Jan 13, 2025

Aclare woman shortlisted for national hotel award

The Sligo Park Hotel’s wedding co-ordinator has been nominated as a national finalist in the Front of House Team Member category at the 2024 Virgin Media Business Gold Medal Hotel Awards. Orla Seery, a native of Aclare in south County Sligo, is one of 16…

Jan 13, 2025

Aldi is recruiting in Mayo

ALDI has initiated a recruitment drive to fill open roles in Mayo. The retailer, which celebrated 25 years in Ireland last year, is looking to recruit new team members for its network of six Mayo stores. The 16 open roles in Mayo are a mix of both new jobs…

Jan 13, 2025

Minister for Justice confirms a new divisional headquarters has been agreed for Sligo town

A Sligo councillor has welcomed news from the Minister for Justice that a new divisional headquarters for Sligo has been agreed. Councillor Thomas Walsh says this has been an ongoing issue now for years, and that the current station is not fit for purpose. He…

Jan 13, 2025

N5 outside Castlebar will be closed for a time later this morning

Castlebar Gardai have been in contact with Midwest News this morning. They say the N5 road just outside of Castlebar will be closed for an hour or two late this morning. Traffic will be diverted through Turlough village. It will only be a short term closure.

Jan 13, 2025

Gardai are at the scene of a fatal road traffic collision in Achill this morning

Gardaí are currently at the scene of a fatal road traffic collision in Achill, Co. Mayo. Shortly before 1am, Gardaí and emergency services responded to a collision involving a single vehicle on the R319 at Keel, Achill. The sole occupant of the car, a male…

Jan 13, 2025

Outlook for the coming months in the food and drinks sector is mainly positive

The food and drink industry expects sentiment to weaken slightly in the months ahead.However, the outlook is mainly positive, with 58 per cent rating the manufacturing environment as good or very good.A report from Ibec group Food Drink Ireland shows the…

Jan 13, 2025

Uisce Eireann is urging members of the public to report any leaks or broken pipes over the next few days, as a countrywide thaw sets in

As the country thaws, Uisce Éireann is urging the public to report any leaks or broken pipes over the next few days.Water supply restrictions have been in place in a number of areas over the weekend to help reservoirs recover from the effects of last week's…

Jan 13, 2025

A draft agreement on a deal for a new Government could be reached by the mid-week

A draft agreement on a deal for a new government could be reached by the middle of this week.Government formation talks ramped up across the weekend - as a new opinion poll showed an election 'bounce' in popularity for both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil.The aim…

Jan 13, 2025

Almost 2 thousand 500 people died due to lengthy emergency department waiting times last year, according to new report

Almost 2 thousand 500 people died due to lengthy emergency department waiting times last year.Around 48 people died prematurely in hospital every week in 2024, according to a report in the Irish Mail.Research by data scientist Stephen Black found the most…

Jan 12, 2025

Construction to begin on new classrooms in Aughleam

Minister of State Dara Calleary has this weekend announced that construction is to commence at Scoil Naomh Breandáin in Aughleam. This construction will see two new general classrooms made available to the gaelscoil. Additionally, the installment of two new…

Jan 12, 2025

Mayo County Council to approve St. Patrick's Day travel at tomorrow's meeting

Tomorrow, Mayo County Council will host its first monthly meeting of 2025. It comes following a special meeting on Wednesday last, whereby Paul Lawless TD’s vacant council seat was filled. His sister, Deirdre Lawless, will now take up the Aontú seat. Two…

Jan 12, 2025

Woman who died following Ballina tragedy named locally

The woman whose body was recovered from the River Moy in Ballina following an extensive search has been named locally. On Thursday morning last, Gardaí and emergency services were alerted to a person entering the water in Ballina. Following a search…

Jan 12, 2025

New poll shows Fianna Fail & Fine Gael have gained popularity since the election

With government formation talks ramping up this weekend, a new poll shows Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have gained popularity since the general election. But support for the independents has fallen. The latest Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks poll shows Fianna…

Jan 12, 2025

National house prices expected to increase by 7 to 10 % over the next year

National house prices will increase by 7 to 10 per cent over the next 12 months. New figures suggest a lack of supply will push prices up in 2025 - but not as much as last year. Estate agents are predicting most hikes - outside Dublin - will be in Donegal,…

Jan 12, 2025

Heavy fog across the region this morning

There is heavy fog across the country this morning.A nationwide status yellow warning has now expired - but road-users are advised fog will linger and impair visibility until later this morning.Motorists are urged to slow down.

Jan 11, 2025

Schools invited to upcoming spring programme at National Museum, Turlough Park

The National Museum of Ireland at Turlough Park, Castlebar is inviting teachers and students to engage with culture over the spring term through a great new range of free workshops and tours for primary and post primary schools. The programme starts with a…

Jan 11, 2025

Two flights due into Ireland West Airport this morning diverted to Shannon

Two flights which were due to land at Ireland West Airport Knock this morning have been diverted to Shannon. The two flights that have been affected are flight FR8142 from Luton, which was due in at 10:30am, and flight FR9813 from Tenerife, due in at 10:35am.…

Jan 11, 2025

Body recovered in Ballina following River Moy search

A body has been recovered from the water in Ballina following a search for a person in recent days. Gardaí and emergency services were alerted on Thursday that a person was suspected to have entered the River Moy in Ballina. An extensive search began on…

Jan 11, 2025

Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael set for an 8/7 minister split in next Government

Fianna Fáil is set to have eight ministers in the next Cabinet, with Fine Gael taking seven. Government formation talks are continuing today, with the return of the Dáil on January 22 looming. The Regional Independent group of TDs and independent Kerry TDs,…

Jan 11, 2025

Man arrested following investigation into alleged 'Romance Fraud'

A man was arrested this week following investigations into alleged offences of ‘Romance Fraud’. Gardaí from the Galway Division were involved in the planned operation, whereby a property was searched yesterday morning. According to a press release from An…

Jan 11, 2025

Nationwide fog warning to come into effect this evening

A status yellow fog warning has been issued for the whole country from this evening. It will come into effect from 6:00pm and last until 9:00am tomorrow morning. Electricity and water has been restored to all homes affected by the extreme conditions over the…

Jan 11, 2025

Report shows Mayo GP practice among those who had stop taking patients

Over six in 10 GPs across the country have stopped taking on new patients. 79 of 130 registered GPs surveyed by the Irish Independent have closed their waiting lists completely, as they were already months long or at capacity. It comes as the country grapples…

Jan 11, 2025

Woman whose body was found in Roscommon bogland to be laid to rest today

A woman in her 50s whose body was found in bogland in South Roscommon will be laid to rest today. 58 year old Mirjana Pap, a Croatian native, was living in Beechville, Athlone, and vanished from her home on Saturday December 28. Her body was found at…

Jan 10, 2025

Hundreds remain without power in the greater Erris area this evening

Over 900 homes, farms and businesses in the greater Erris area are without power this evening. A mass power outage was reported shortly after 11:00am this morning. The ESB have stated that the estimated restoration time for power in the area is 7:15pm this…

Jan 10, 2025

Fáilte Ireland welcomes reduction in state-contracted bed spaces for asylum seekers

A report in today’s Irish Times shows that state- contracted bed spaces for asylum seekers is down 15%. New figures show that the number of beds under government contract for asylum seekers and refugees has fallen by 15% since May. Fáilte Ireland has welcomed…

Jan 10, 2025

Taoiseach welcomes planning approval of Lough Funshinagh relief scheme

The Taoiseach has welcomed the decision by An Bord Pleanála to approve the application by Roscommon County Council to develop an interim flood relief scheme to pump water from Lough Funshinagh. As part of the plans, the water would be discharged to the Cross…

Jan 10, 2025

Gardaí investigating double car fire arson attack in Sligo

Investigations are underway into a suspected arson attack in Sligo town. Two cars were set alight in the Emmet Place area of the town in the early hours of this morning (Friday January 10). Gardaí and the fire service attended the scene and eventually brought…

Jan 10, 2025

Three arrested following seizure of firearms and drugs in County Roscommon

Gardaí have arrested three men and seized two firearms, along with quantities of cocaine and cannabis following the search of a residential property outside Athlone, Co. Roscommon on Wednesday last (January 8). The search was part of an investigation into an…

Jan 10, 2025

New 26 bed unit has been opened at Sligo University Hospital

Sligo University Hospital has opened a new 26-bed ward comprising of six four-bed rooms and two single en-suite rooms, located at St John’s Community Hospital, Sligo. That's according to Deputy Frank Feighan. He says this will provide additional bed capacity,…

Jan 10, 2025

Search continues in Ballina for individual suspected to have entered River Moy

A search is continuing today in Ballina after an individual was suspected to have entered the River Moy yesterday morning. An Garda Síochána have informed Midwest News that they and the emergency services were alerted to an incident at the river on Thursday…

Jan 10, 2025

Missing Sligo teenager located safe and well

A teenager, who had been missing from Sligo town for over a week, has been found safe and well. 17 year old Jake Hafford was reported as missing on Thursday January 4. An Garda Síochána say that they would like to thank the media and the public for their…

Jan 10, 2025

Government formation talks continue today with Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and Independents engaging

Engagement between Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and Independent TDs will continue today.All sides are expecting to work through the weekend to progress the Government formation process.The Regional Independent group has been finalising its policy positions to…

Jan 10, 2025

Disappointment in Ballaghaderreen as swimming pool will now not reopen as initially planned

There is disappointment in Ballaghaderreen this week as it has been confirmed the swimming pool will now not reopen as initially planned. That's according to Deputy Claire Kerrane who says the owners of the building and the leisure centre were unable to reach…

Jan 10, 2025

Additional accommodation has been approved for a West Mayo national school

Four new classrooms have been approved for a West Mayo national school, according to Minister of State, Alan Dillon. Minister Dillon welcomed the news that approval has been given by the Department of Education for the extension and refurbishment of the…

Jan 10, 2025

Roscommon records lowest overnight temperature as Orange low temp warning remains in place for 15 counties

Temperatures dipped well below zero again overnight as an Orange warning for low temperatures and ice remains in place for 15 counties. The roads will be dangerous for drivers, with the rest of the country under a yellow warning for ice until midday. The…

Jan 09, 2025

Ballina councillor set to be the only Mayo politician to run for the Seanad

Fine Gael councillor Mark Duffy is the only Mayo politician set to contest the upcoming Seanad elections. The Ballina based councillor won two local elections as an Independent before running for the Dáil as a Fine Gael candidate. It comes as Ballyglass…

Jan 09, 2025

Teenager missing in Sligo with over two weeks has been located

The teenager who was missing in Sligo since late last month has been located. Nicole Doyle, 15-years-old, who was reported missing in Sligo Town, on Monday, 30th December 2024, has been located by Gardaí. No further media action is required. An Garda Síochána…

Jan 09, 2025

Latest quarterly report by MyHome.ie shows property prices remain unchanged during Q4 2024

The latest quarterly report from MyHome.ie shows that property prices have remained unchanged in Mayo during the three months. It doe's however show that the median asking prices have risen by around €5,000 when compared to the same time last year. As of the…

Jan 09, 2025

Urgent need of pedestrian crossing highlighted for Balla

Students of Balla Secondary School have written to elected member of Mayo County Council to highlight an urgent safety issue near the school. The absence of a pedestrian crossing is affecting the accessibility of all students, particularly those who use…

Jan 09, 2025

Another Status Orange low temperature and ice warning issued for Galway and Roscommon

Another Status Orange low temperature and ice warning has been issued by Met Eireann. It will run in 13 counties starting from 7pm. This latest alert affects Galway, Roscommon, Tipperary, Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath,…

Jan 09, 2025

Recommencement of construction of Ballyhaunis Primary Care Centre welcomed by local councillor

After almost four years of inactivity work has recommenced on the Ballyhaunis Primary Care Centre. Work on the primary care centre ceased after the developer stopped work on the site in mid-2021 after it became no longer economically viable. The HSE has said…

Jan 09, 2025

Man arrested after he was allegedly found in possession of a firearm on the Sligo to Connolly train yesterday evening

Gardaí arrested a man after he was allegedly found in possession of a firearm on a train yesterday evening. The 3.05pm service from Sligo to Dublin was stopped at Connolly Station after reports of anti-social behaviour onboard. Several Garda Armed Response…

Jan 09, 2025

Fianna Fail & Fine Gael to meet with Independent Ireland today for exploratory talks on formation of a Government

Fianna Fail and Fine Gael will meet with Independent Ireland today for exploratory talks on the formation of a government. It will be the party’s first foray into policy discussions, and they’re expected to outline hopes for a Marine and Fisheries Minister.…

Jan 09, 2025

Status Orange Low Temperature and ice warning remains in place this morning

Temperatures dipped to minus 7 degrees overnight as a status orange low temperature and ice warning remains in place. Sub zero temperatures affected many areas overnight as the cold snap continues. The weather station in Mullingar in Co Westmeath recorded the…

Jan 08, 2025

Pay & Display Machines in Galway City currently out of order

Pay and display machines around Galway city are currently out of order - due to legal action taken against the city council. There have been calls for a temporary pause on parking charges in Galway city due to complications with how fees can be collected at…

Jan 08, 2025

5 workplace related incidents recorded across the region last year, according to the HSA

2024 saw a record low number of workplace related deaths here. The HSA says 33 people lost their lives in work related incidents last year, down 23 per cent on 2023 figures. Since 2015, the rate of deaths while at work has more than halved to stand at 1.2…

Jan 08, 2025

University Hospital Galway remains among the most busy nationally today, with 70 patients on trolleys

There are long delays facing patients presenting at hospital emergency departments right across the region this lunchtime. 73 patients are waiting for admission at University Hospital Galway, the second highest figure nationally today. 53 patients are waiting…

Jan 08, 2025

Mayo Senator confirms her departure from politics

Outgoing Mayo Fianna Fáil Senator Lisa Chambers has confirmed to Midwest News today that she is to take a break from politics. She is not contesting the forthcoming Seanad elections and did not seek a party nomination to do so after serving as Leader of the…

Jan 08, 2025

Deirdre Lawless formally ratified this morning as Councillor

Deirdre Lawless of Aontú was formally ratified this morning to fill the seat on Mayo County Council vacated by her brother Paul on his election to Dáil Eireann. The meeting was held online, with councillors told the seat could only be filled by an Aontú…

Jan 08, 2025

Ryanair to take legal action against disruptive passengers using its services

Ryanair has filed a legal claim for over 15 thousand euro against a disruptive passenger on one of its flights last year.The airline has announced it will be taking similar action against any disruptive passengers on its planes going forward.The company says…

Jan 08, 2025

No end in sight to rising prices, says latest market outlook from DNG

There is no end in sight to rising house prices.The latest market outlook from DNG says falling interest rates and a strong economy mean further increases throughout 2025.The strongest rate of growth last year was in the Mid-West followed by the West, South…

Jan 08, 2025

BT Young scientist Exhibition gets underway in the RDS this morning

550 projects are on display at the RDS today for the 61st BT Young Scientist Exhibition.200 prizes will be awarded this weekend with the overall winner taking home 7 thousand 500 euro.Creators Dr Tony Scott and Reverend Dr Tom Burke modelled it after American…

Jan 08, 2025

Long serving Mayo solicitor presented with Judge Dan Shields Memorial Award

A lawyer who has given long and distinguished service to the legal profession has been honoured by his colleagues in the Mayo Solicitors Bar Association. Pat O’Connor, senior partner in the legal firm P. O’Connor & Son, is the latest recipient of the Judge…

Jan 08, 2025

Status Orange low temp warning remains in place this morning across the region

A low temperature of almost minus-6 degrees was recorded overnight as the cold snap continues.Met Eireann is warning of extremely cold conditions and widespread severe frost with an orange weather warning remaining in place until later this morning.Co…

Jan 07, 2025

Mayo County Council issue statement regarding the revision of burial ground fees which came into effect yesterday

Mayo County Council can confirm that a revision of burial ground fees has come into effect since Monday, January 6th, 2025. This is the first increase in burial ground fees since 2013 and formed part of budget report 2025, which was duly adopted on December…

Jan 07, 2025

Taoiseach confident the new Government will be formed in time for the return of the Dail

The Taoiseach is confident the new Government will be formed by January the 22nd but admits it will be tight.Simon Harris says talks are progressing well and are focused on policy, structure and ratification.The negotiation teams are discussing disability and…

Jan 07, 2025

Missing person appeal for 29 year old man missing from Roscommon since 2018 has been stood down

Following the discovery of remains, the missing person appeal in respect of 29 year old Tomas Martinkus, who was reported missing from his home in Strokestown, Co. Roscommon since 19th December, 2018, has been stood down. No further information is available…

Jan 07, 2025

Gardai appeal for assistance in locating teenager missing from Sligo

Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 17-year-old Jake Hafford who was reported missing in Sligo town on Thursday, 4th January. Jake is described as being approximately 5 feet 11 inches in height with a slim build, short…

Jan 07, 2025

Mayo Mountain Rescue respond to their first call of 2025

The Mayo mountain rescue team responded to their first call of 2025 at the weekend. On Sunday,two walkers on the Letterkeen trail, in Wild Nephin National Park, took a wrong turn and headed up towards Nephin Beg mountain. Realising it was getting dark they…

Jan 07, 2025

Status Orange low temp warning issued for Connacht

A Status Orange Low Temperature/Ice warning has been issued for most of the country this morning, including all of Connacht. Met Éireann say it will be extremely cold with widespread severe frost, ice and lying snow. Dangerous travelling conditions on roads…

Jan 07, 2025

Roscommon councillor critises the taking of a lifebuoy from its housing along the demesne in Castlerea recently

Roscommon councillor has critised the taking of a lifebuoy from its housing along the demesne in Castlerea recently. Councillor Gareth Scahill says that while it has been located and returned, it doesn't take away from the danger of it not being in place. He…

Jan 07, 2025

Calls for reform of CAO points system for third level education

There are calls to reform the CAO points system for entry to third-level education.It comes as major changes are planned for the Leaving Cert, including a minimum of 40 per cent marks for projects across all subjects.The Senior Cycle Redevelopment Delivery…

Jan 07, 2025

Met Eireann is expected to upgrade its weather warning to orange today for parts of the country

Met Eireann is expected to upgrade its weather warning to orange today for parts of the country. Very cold conditions with widespread frost, ice and lying snow can be expected until Friday. Thousands of homes and businesses are still without power and water…

Jan 07, 2025

Mayo syndicate claim €5.4 million Lotto prize

As snowy and icy conditions grip Ireland in a wintry embrace, the cold has not stopped the heat of excitement at National Lottery HQ as players Mayo claimed their prize they had won recently in the main Lotto draw. A syndicate from snowy Mayo claimed the…

Jan 06, 2025

Investigations underway into a fire at a farm in Claregalway on New Years Eve

Gardaí and fire services were alerted to a fire at a farm property in Claregalway shortly after 10pm on Wednesday 31st December 2024. A farm building and hay bales were damaged by fire in the course of the incident. An investigation into the incident is…

Jan 06, 2025

UHG under significant pressure this afternoon

Saolta have issued a statement regarding pressures at UHG this afternoon. They say... University Hospital Galway remains under significant pressure today. The hospital is managing the ongoing impacts of high rates of flu and also seeing very high attendances…

Jan 06, 2025

IMNO call for national emergency plan to deal with overcrowding as over 760 patients remain on trolleys today

Nurses are calling for a national emergency plan to deal with overcrowding in hospitals. 761 patients are currently waiting on trolleys in hospitals around the country, as the health service struggles to deal with a surge in serious flu cases. The Irish…

Jan 06, 2025

Castlebar 'clean to European norms' according to latest IBAL litter survey

Last year saw an almost 50 per cent drop in the number of plastic bottles and cans on our streets. However, the latest IBAL litter survey shows the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme made some difference to overall litter levels across the country.…

Jan 06, 2025

Long delays at hospital emergency departments across the region today

Long delays are facing patients attending the Emergency Department at Sligo University Hospital today. 55 patients are waiting for a bed at the hospital, the second most overcrowded across the country today. Elsewhere, 51 patients are waiting for a bed at…

Jan 06, 2025

Section of the N17 impassable this afternoon due to road conditions

Gardai are urging motorists to avoid the N17 between Charlestown and Ireland West Airport Knock this afternoon. The road conditions are treacherous and many lorries are unable to pass. Mayo County Council are aware of the issue. Ireland West Airport say if…

Jan 06, 2025

Castlebar schoolteacher has returned to school this morning after being released from prison before Christmas

Castlebar schoolteacher Enoch Burke has returned Wilson's Hospital School this morning, as the school reopens following the Christmas break. The schoolteacher was previously jailed for failing to comply with a court order that he stay away from the school in…

Jan 06, 2025

Former Arts and Media correspondent at RTE, Galway native Colm Connolly has died at the age of 82

Former Arts and Media Correspondent for RTÉ News Colm Connolly has died. Mr Connolly, who was 82, died in Cyprus. He began his working life as a guitarist in The Paramount Showband based in Tuam, Co Galway in the 1960s. Switching to broadcasting, he began…

Jan 06, 2025

Fundraising page set up for Claremorris man in ICU in Sydney surpasses €80,000

An iDonate page set up for a young man and his family from Claremorris has raised over €80,000 over the weekend. Cathal Canavan experienced a life-threatening fall on Christmas Day in Australia and is receiving treatment in the ICU in Sydney. Cathal played…

Jan 06, 2025

IFA regional chair urges farmers to take precautions around their farms as the cold snap continues

As Met Ėireann has issued an alert for multi-hazard weather conditions, the IFA have urged farmers to take the necessary precautions around their farms over the next number of days, to get through the cold snap. Clearing routes around farm buildings, stocking…

Jan 06, 2025

Calls for the Government to appoint more women to the Cabinet as formation talks set to resume

There are calls for the next government to appoint more women to Cabinet.Women For Election say Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael need to show a commitment to gender equality, by having at least seven female ministers around the Cabinet table.The organisation's…

Jan 06, 2025

Status yellow low temp and ice warning remains in effect until Thursday

Around 41 thousand ESB customers are still without power this morning.Homes, farms and businesses in Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Kilkenny, Carlow, Laois and Wicklow are worst-affected.Heavy snow hit some parts yesterday, with a status yellow warning for…

Jan 06, 2025

RSA urge motorists and pedestrians to be cautious on roads and footpaths this morning following freezing temperatures overnight

The RSA is urging motorists and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution on the roads and footpaths this morning. Hazardous weather conditions are continuing to impact people in many areas with a combination of rain, sleet, snow and ice. Extremely low…

Jan 05, 2025

Gardai in Galway warn of treacherous road conditions in some areas

An Garda Siochana in Galway are warning of treacherous road conditions on the M6 motorway and surrounding secondary roads this afternoon. Gardai are advising the public stay at home and avoid journeys that aren’t absolutely necessary. Gardai in Galway posted…

Jan 05, 2025

Government formation talks are set to reconvene tomorrow

Government-formation talks are set to reconvene tomorrow, with immigration being a key issue. In its manifesto, Fianna Fáil pledged that issues related to migration currently under the remit of the Department of Children would be moved to a new department—the…

Jan 05, 2025

Taoiseach says it's really important people remain vigilant during the current cold snap

The Taoiseach says it's really important people remain vigilant during the current cold snap. Simon Harris has spoken with the National Emergency Co-Ordination Group for a briefing on conditions around the country. He says the situation varies, with some…

Jan 05, 2025

Status Yellow low temperature / ice warning extended for entire country until Thursday

A status 'yellow' low temperature / ice warning has been extended for the whole country until Thursday.Other Status Orange and Status Yellow alerts for snow and rain, remain in place until this evening.

Jan 05, 2025

DSPCA warning pet owners long exposure to the cold can lead to pet hypothermia

The DSPCA is warning pet owners long exposure to the cold can lead to pet hypothermia. The charity says even animals that are usually accustomed to being outside, should be brought inside. It's advising keeping anti-freeze out of access to cats and dogs as it…

Jan 05, 2025

Power being restored this morning to those affected as a result of the cold weather event

28,000 homes, farms and businesses are without power as a result of the cold weather event affecting several counties across the country. Worst affected areas are Limerick, Tipperary, Kilkenny, Carlow, Laois and Wicklow. ESB Networks crews are currently…

Jan 04, 2025

Public are being reminded to check in on elderly neighbours and relatives during the cold snap

Older people are being urged to make sure their heating is working during the cold snap. A mix of status yellow and orange weather warnings for snow, ice and rain are in place nationwide from today until tomorrow evening. Met Eireann warns up to 5cm snow or…

Jan 04, 2025

Castlebar Panto returns this month, as the society marks it's centenary year

Castlebar Pantomime returns to the TF Royal Theatre this year, as the panto society marks their centenary year. 'Once Upon a Time in Pantoland' takes place from the 16th-19th of January, with a special sensory friendly show taking place on the Thursday…

Jan 04, 2025

New figures show over 15 thousand people are now homeless, the highest figure seen to date

The new government is being urged to provide more housing and supports for the homeless.The latest figures for November show a record 15,199 people homeless, including 4,658 children.It's the first time the number of people in emergency accommodation has…

Jan 04, 2025

Status yellow snow and ice warning comes into effect for Connacht from this evening

Conditions could be treacherous on the roads this morning after icy conditions overnight. There's also an orange warning for 'snow and ice' for eight counties on the way later - kicking off from 5pm for Carlow, Kilkenny, Laois, Offaly, Wicklow, Clare,…

Jan 04, 2025

Man has been charged with the murder of his mother whose body was found in County Roscommon on Monday

A 31 year-old man has appeared in court charged with the murder of his mother Mirjana Pap whose body was found in County Roscommon on Monday.The body of the mother of three was found on bogland at Curraghaleen outside the town, after she was reported missing…

Jan 03, 2025

UHG issue statement regarding visiting at the hospital

University Hospital Galway remains under significant pressure with very high rates of flu, we are treating 43 patients with flu in the hospital currently. Due to the high levels of respiratory viruses currently circulating in the community we are asking the…

Jan 03, 2025

Emergency services at the scene of a collision outside Foxford this afternoon

Emergency services are at the scene of a road traffic collision between Foxford and Pontoon this afternoon on the R318. Motorists are being advised to use alternative routes if possible. Motorists are also being advised that the R318 Foxford to Pontoon road…

Jan 03, 2025

Households and businesses could see energy bills rise here in the coming months

Households and businesses could be hit with higher energy bills in the coming months.It's after a gas trading agreement between Russia and Ukraine came to an end on New Year's Day.Annual energy bills here are already around 900 euro higher now, than before…

Jan 03, 2025

A man has been arrested as part of the investigation into the murder of a woman in Co. Roscommon

A man's been arrested as part of the investigation into the murder of a woman in her 50s in Co. Roscommon. The body of Mirjana Pap was discovered on lands at Curraghaleen on Monday. Gardai in Athlone have arrested a man in his 30s on suspicion of murder -…

Jan 03, 2025

Sister of Paul Lawless who is set to replace him on Mayo County Council says getting into politics has been on her radar for some time

Deirdre Lawless, a sister of newly-elected Aontú TD Paul Lawless, has been selected to replace him on Mayo County Council. Deputy Lawless was elected to Dail Eireann just months after winning a council seat in June. Due to the abolition of the dual mandate,…

Jan 03, 2025

Gardai looking for help in tracing missing Sligo teenager

Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 15-year-old Nicole Doyle , who was reported missing in Sligo town on Monday, 30th December 2024. Nicole is described as being approximately 5 foot 4 inches in height, with a slim build,…

Jan 03, 2025

Status Yellow snow and ice warning issued for Connacht for tomorrow evening

Ireland is set to be hit by a "multi-weather hazard event" as a Status Orange warning for snow and ice has been issued for six counties, with significant snowfall expected. The warning will be in effect from 5pm tomorrow to 5pm on Sunday for Carlow, Kilkenny,…

Jan 03, 2025

Another historic milestone for Ireland West Airport

2024 has proven to be the busiest year on record at Ireland West Airport. For the first time in the airport’s history, passenger numbers increased by 2% to 834,000, surpassing the previous record of 817,000 passengers achieved in 2023. The airport now serves…

Jan 03, 2025

Sligo University Hospital is the third most overcrowded in the country today

538 people are waiting for a hospital bed today. The INMO says the largest number of those are in University Hospital Limerick, followed by Cork University Hospital and Sligo University Hospital. There are 45 patients on trolleys today at Sligo, 37 patients…

Jan 03, 2025

Emergency services are at the scene of a house fire in Castlebar

Emergency services are currently at the scene of house fire in Castlebar. The alarm was raised at around 8:40am this morning on Davitts Terrace. A man has been taken to hospital as a precaution. Traffic is down to one lane and the blaze has now been brought…

Jan 03, 2025

Mayo company receives funding under short supply chains funding

Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Senator Pippa Hackett, has today announced the successful applicants to a call for innovative proposals to maximise the return to primary producers from short supply chains. Among the…

Jan 03, 2025

Nationwide Status Yellow Low temperature & Ice warning remains in place this morning

A nationwide status yellow low temperature and ice warning remains in place this morning. Freezing temperatures overnight have left widespread frost and ice on the roads. The weather warning is due to expire at 11am - but an advisory for sleet and snow will…

Jan 03, 2025

Flu season expected to peak in around two weeks time

It's expected the flu season will peak in around two weeks' time. The number of people in hospital with the virus has nearly doubled in the last week. There's been a rise of almost 500 cases, with over 1 thousand in hospital yesterday. President of the Irish…

Jan 03, 2025

Ireland West Airport records highest-ever passenger numbers as 834,000 passengers use the airport in 2024

2024 has proven to be the busiest year on record at Ireland West Airport. For the first time in the airport’s history, passenger numbers increased by 2% to 834,000, surpassing the previous record of 817,000 passengers achieved in 2023. The airport now serves…

Jan 03, 2025

Sister of Paul Lawless to replace him on Mayo County Council

Following an internal Aontú selection process Deirdre Lawless has been selected by Aontú to succeed Deputy Paul Lawless on Mayo County Council. Paul Lawless recently made history by becoming the first Aontú TD outside the party’s leaders, Peadar Tóibín.…

Jan 02, 2025

Temperatures could plummet next week with Met Éireann warning of the possibility of significant snowfall

Met Eireann is warning temperatures could drop as low as minus 10 degrees next week. A Status Yellow low temperature and ice alert will come into effect nationwide from 6 o’clock this evening. Met Eireann Meteorologist Joanna Donnelly says there's likely to…

Jan 02, 2025

Number of people in hospital with the flu has surpassed 1 thousand for the third day in a row

The number of people in hospital with the flu has surpassed 1 thousand for the third day in a row.The HSE has confirmed it's an increase of nearly 500 in the last week.Chief Clinical Officer Colm Henry, says there are 64 patients in intensive care with the…

Jan 02, 2025

Erris councillor calls for action - as basic infrastructure in the area is failing

Basic infrastructure such as electricity and phone lines are constantly experiencing outages in the Erris area, and it’s simply not acceptable, according to local Fine Gael councillor Gerry Coyle. The councillor insists that it is past time for the telecom…

Jan 02, 2025

Applications open for government's - Back for Business programme

Back for Business, is a free government programme that helps returned emigrants start and develop businesses in Ireland, and is now open for applications. The programme is seeking offers of interest from people who have recently returned to Mayo or are still…

Jan 02, 2025

Mayo home to feature in TV programme this Sunday

The new series of the TV programme Room to Improve sees architect Dermot Bannon returning with four new designs for four properties. This year's show kicks off in Mayo on Sunday night on RTÉ One at 9.30 p.m. with a visit to Charlestown, where Karen Mulligan…

Jan 02, 2025

Snow falling this morning in parts of East Mayo, as national status yellow ice warning to come into effect this evening

A status yellow low temperature and ice warning has been issued for the entire country. It'll begin at 6 o'clock this evening and remain in place until 11 tomorrow morning. Met Éireann is warning of widespread frost and ice, as temperatures fall below minus 3…

Jan 02, 2025

Galway city among the most expensive places to buy a home

Dublin, Galway City and Cork City remain the most expensive places to buy a home. Daft-dot-ie's latest report shows house prices rose by an average of 9 per cent in 2024. The average home now costs over 332 thousand euro - up 30 per cent since the start of…

Jan 02, 2025

2024 was a record year for road fatalities in Mayo

A total of 174 people died in 160 fatal collisions in 2024 compared to 181 deaths in 170 collisions in 2023. This represents a decrease of 7 deaths or a 4% drop in road deaths compared to last year. The figures were published by the Road Safety Authority…

Jan 02, 2025

Murder investigation continues after a woman's body was found in a field in county Roscommon on Monday

A murder investigation is continuing into the death of a woman whose body was found in a field in Co Roscommon on Monday. The woman has been formally identified as Mirjana Pap, who had been missing from Athlone since last weekend. Originally from Croatia,…

Jan 02, 2025

Mayo man who drowned in New Zealand described as "caring, talented and vivacious" at his funeral Mass yesterday in Erris

A young Mayo man lost his life when he and a group of friends went swimming in the local Waikato River, On December 14, a hot summer day in Hamilton, New Zealand , his funeral Mass was told yesterday Padraig Togher, brother of the late Peadar Togher (27)…

Dec 31, 2024

New laws introduced in the EU, which will see all small and medium sized electronic devices now made compatible with USB-C charging

As of Friday last, the 28th of December, all small and medium-sized portable electronic devices sold in the EU must be compatible with USB-C ports to address waste. In 2022, the European Parliament and member states voted overwhelmingly in favour of scrapping…

Dec 31, 2024

Gardai investigating circumstances surrounding the discovery of a body in Roscommon

Gardaí in Athlone are investigating all of the circumstances surrounding the death of a woman in her 50s following the discovery of a body on lands at Curraghaleen, Co. Roscommon (near Athlone) on Monday afternoon. The local Coroner has been notified and the…

Dec 31, 2024

Stena Line say it plans to partially reopen Holyhead Port in mid-January

There's cautious optimism following reports Holyhead Port will partially reopen on January 16th. Stena Line says it plans to re-open the Terminal 5 berth - which has been closed over Christmas because of damage caused by Storm Darragh. Junior Transport…

Dec 31, 2024

Gardai urge caution on the roads over the next number of days, as the number of road fatalities continues to rise

Gardai are warning the New Year period is one of the times when road users are at the highest risk of being involved in a fatal or serious crash. The Christmas Road Safety Campaign continues until January 6th, and motorists are being urged to pull together to…

Dec 31, 2024

Mayo and Galway remain under a Status Yellow weather warning this morning

Five counties are under Status Yellow weather warnings this morning. Donegal is under a rain alert until 11am, while Cork and Kerry will be affected by a similar warning until tomorrow morning at 6. A wind advisory is also in place in Donegal, Mayo and Galway…

Dec 30, 2024

Search stood down for woman missing in Athlone

The search has been stood down for a woman missing from the Athlone area, after a body was located this afternoon.. In a statement this evening Gardai say that following the discovery of a woman's body this afternoon in Athlone, the missing person appeal in…

Dec 30, 2024

Castlebar councillor calls on HSE Management to put a surge plan in place at MUH

Independent Castlebar based councillor Harry Barrett is calling on HSE Management to immediately put in place an emergency plan to deal with the number of patients waiting on trolleys in the hospital’s Emergency Dept. The councillor says that today, 37…

Dec 30, 2024

Single vehicle road collision along the N17 in the Kilkelly area this afternoon

Gardai are advising road users of a road traffic collision at present in the Kilkelly area. A single vehicle collision occurred along the N17 AT Doogary, Kilkelly within the past half an hour and Gardai are at the scene at present. Traffic approaching in…

Dec 30, 2024

194 people were arrested last week for intoxicated driving

Gardaí say getting involved in a car crash is no accident if you're under the influence of drugs or alcohol.194 people were arrested for intoxicated driving last week.That's up from 178 the previous week.Chief Superintendent of the Garda National Roads…

Dec 30, 2024

Call for blood donations this Festive Season

The Irish Blood Transfusion service is calling on people to prioritise blood donation this Christmas. 10-thousand blood donors are needed during the festive season to keep up with the demand. You can check your eligibility by completing the ‘New Donor…

Dec 30, 2024

Excitement around the Belmullet area today as Carey's confirmed as shop that sold winning Lotto jackpot ticket worth over 5.4 million

The National Lottery have confirmed that Saturday’s Lotto jackpot winning ticket worth over €5.4 million was sold at Carey’s, Main Street, Belmullet. The Carey’s in Belmullet are no strangers to National Lottery winning ways after celebrating several…

Dec 30, 2024

N5 reopens to traffic following serious road traffic collision yesterday evening

The N5 road from Castlebar to Turlough has reopened to traffic this afternoon following a collision. Gardaí and Emergency Services attended the scene of a two vehicle road traffic collision involving a car and truck on the N5 Castlebar to Turlough road…

Dec 30, 2024

N5 outside Castlebar remains closed this morning following road traffic collision

The N5 road from Castlebar to Turlough remains closed this morning due to a road traffic collision. Gardaí and Emergency Services attended the scene of a two vehicle road traffic collision involving a car and truck on the N5 Castlebar to Turlough road…

Dec 30, 2024

Mayo and Galway to come under status yellow wind warning from midnight

A status yellow rain warning has been issued for Donegal. It will take effect from 11 o'clock this morning, lasting until the same time tomorrow. Meanwhile, Donegal, Mayo and Galway will be under a status yellow wind warning from midnight until 11am tomorrow.…

Dec 30, 2024

No injuries reported following a road traffic collision in Knock yesterday

Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a single-vehicle road traffic collision on the N17 near Knock yesterday evening. The incident occurred at around 7.25pm. There were no reports of injuries.

Dec 30, 2024

Former US President Jimmy Carter has died at the age of 100

The former President of the United States Jimmy Carter has died at the age of 100. He served in the White House between 1977 and 1981 after replacing Gerald Ford. He was known for brokering the Camp David accords between Israel and Egypt. His humanitarian…

Dec 30, 2024

Gardai appeal for assistance in locating woman missing from Athlone

Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 58-year-old Mirjana Pap who was reported missing from her home in Athlone, Co. Westmeath on Saturday last. Mirjana was last seen in Athlone in the early hours of Saturday morning.…

Dec 30, 2024

National Lottery confirm store where Saturday's Lotto jackpot winning ticket was sold

The National Lottery have confirmed that Saturday’s Lotto jackpot winning ticket worth €5,419,866 was sold at Carey’s, Main Street, Belmullet.The Carey’s in Belmullet are no strangers to National Lottery winning ways after celebrating several high-tier wins…

Dec 29, 2024

Mayo University Hospital urges the public to consider all care pathways

Mayo University Hospital is urging the public to consider all care options as it deals with very high attendances. The hospital is also treating a high number of patients with flu which is leading to long wait times and increased pressure on hospital…

Dec 29, 2024

Mayo Player Wins €5.4 Million Lotto Jackpot

A massive night of wins saw one Mayo player scoop the €5,419,866 million jackpot in last night’s Lotto draw (28th December), while two Dublin players walked away with €40,341 each after both matching five numbers plus the bonus. The Mayo winner becomes the…

Dec 29, 2024

Irish Blood Transfusion Service says the holiday season is a challenging period for its services

The Irish Blood Transfusion Service says the holiday season is a challenging period for its services. 10-thousand blood donors are needed over the Christmas period, to maintain hospital operations. O negative, A negative and B negative are currently in short…

Dec 29, 2024

Storm could be on the way in the coming days

There's a cold snap on the way... and we could be facing into a storm too. Experts say weather models indicate two possible weather fronts, based on wind-speed and direction. The northern track would lead to damaging winds, particularly in the north and…

Dec 29, 2024

Motorists & pedestrians are both being warned to be extra careful in the run up to the New Year

177 people have died on Irish roads this year. Since Christmas Eve alone, 4 pedestrians have lost their lives, bringing the number of people killed on the roads to 5 over the last 5 days. Motorists and pedestrians are both being warned to be extra careful in…

Dec 28, 2024

Five people killed on Irish roads since Christmas Eve following further pedestrian deaths overnight

Two pedestrians have died in separate road traffic collisions in counties Meath and Carlow overnight. It brings to 4 the number of pedestrians killed over Christmas - with a total of five people dying on the roads since Christmas eve. Gardaí are appealing for…

Dec 28, 2024

Stormy weather could be on the way in the New Year

A cool start to 2025 is looking likely as a cold snap moves in. Temperatures are expected to drop with wind picking up next week as threats of a storm increase. Alan O'Reilly from Carlow Weather says a New Year's storm is possible:

Dec 28, 2024

Government allocate close to €1 million to encourage breastfeeding

€0.9 million is being allocated to encourage new mums in disadvantaged areas to breastfeed. The funding has been announced by the Minister for State with responsibility for public Health, Wellbeing and National Drug Strategy. €340,000 of the money will be…

Dec 28, 2024

Portiuncula University Hospital warns of high attendances due to flu

Portiuncula University Hospital is treating a high number of patients with flu which is leading to long wait times and increased pressure on hospital services. The flu virus is actively circulating in our communities and is expected to reach the highest…

Dec 27, 2024

Mayo University Hospital warns of high attendances due to flu

Mayo University Hospital is treating a high number of patients with flu which is leading to long wait times and increased pressure on hospital services. The flu virus is actively circulating in our communities and is expected to reach the highest levels so…

Dec 27, 2024

Ballyhaunis soldier killed in 1999 to be posthumously awarded a Distinguished Service Medal

A Ballyhaunis soldier killed when his UN peacekeeping post was shelled in Lebanon is to be posthumously awarded a Distinguished Service Medal. Private William Kedian from Ballyhaunis died during fighting between Lebanese and Israeli backed factions on May…

Dec 27, 2024

Deputy wants air ambulance back in Athlone base as quickly as possible

A Roscommon deputy insists that the length of time that the Athlone Air Ambulance is relocated to Dublin needs to be kept to a minimum. Sinn Fein Deputy Claire kerrane says that the air ambulance for this region has been temporarily relocated to Baldonnel in…

Dec 27, 2024

65 percent of Lotto funds go to charities, new report shows

Almost 230 million euro from the receipts of the National Lottery went to good causes in 2023. The first ever 'good causes' report has been published this morning outlining that 65 per cent of lotto profits, after prizes are discounted, went to charities and…

Dec 27, 2024

Households encouraged not to waste food this Christmas

At Christmas, lots of perfectly good food is being needlessly thrown away.A new Survey by Too Good To Go found half of food bought by households for the holiday season often goes uneaten.Food waste contributes to 10 per cent of all greenhouse gas emissions…

Dec 27, 2024

Survey finds more than 50 percent of people lose track of the days between Christmas and New Year

Almost half of people surveyed lose track of the days between Christmas and New Years Day.HelloFresh found 4 in 10 people like to stay in their pyjamas all day and 48 percent graze on leftovers.However two thirds said they're keen to get back to their…

Dec 27, 2024

Body discovered in Sligo town yesterday afternoon

A Garda investigation is underway after a body was discovered in Sligo town yesterday afternoon. The body was found at Hughes Bridge in the town at approximately 20 to one in the afternoon. Gardai told Midwest News today that a post-mortem examination will…

Dec 27, 2024

State papers reveal that in 1993 the Tanaiste warned Ballina native President Robinson against accepting a UN role while serving as President

State papers released under the 30-year rule show that the Tánaiste and Minister for foreign affairs Dick Spring warned Ballina native, President Mary Robinson in 1993 against accepting a United Nations role while still serving as President as it could lead…

Dec 24, 2024

Disappointment in Tubbercurry this morning, following overnight vandalism on Christmas decorations in the town

There is an air of disappointment in Tubbercurry this morning, following an incident overnight in which Christmas decorations were damaged. Geraldine Brennan is the president of the Chamber of Commerce in the town. She says it's extremely disappointing that…

Dec 24, 2024

MUH welcome the results of the National Inpatient Experience Survey

The results of the National Inpatient Experience Survey, carried out in all public hospitals in Ireland in May, have been published. This is the sixth year that the survey has been carried out and was an opportunity for patients of Mayo University Hospital…

Dec 24, 2024

No hopes of a white Christmas in Ireland this year

There's no hopes of a white Christmas in Ireland this year.A mild and dry day across the country is predicated for tomorrow with temperatures not falling below 11 degrees.Snow is also missing in places throughout Europe with Ireland being one of the warmest…

Dec 24, 2024

ALONE is urging people to check in on their elderly relatives and neighbours this Christmas

ALONE is urging people to check in on their elderly relatives and neighbours this Christmas. The charity plans to deliver over 1-thousand-500 dinners, and to connect with older people through thousands of phone calls and volunteer visits during the festive…

Dec 24, 2024

Castlebar councillor urges motorists to be safe on the roads this Christmas, as Mayo records one of the highest road death figures this year

A Castlebar councillor is urging motorists to be safe on the roads this Christmas, as Mayo records one of the highest road death figures this year. Councillor Michael Kilcoyne was speaking following a proposal brought before Mayo County Council, to reduce the…

Dec 24, 2024

New survey shows more than half of people are worried about cooking their turkey correctly this Christmas

More than half of people are worried about cooking their turkey correctly on Christmas Day. According to Safefood's annual survey, two thirds of people start their Christmas dinner planning in early December. It also found 41 per cent of cooks saying they're…

Dec 24, 2024

Santa has been given clearance to enter Irish airspace for Christmas

Santa Claus has officially been given Government permission to enter Irish airspace tonight. There had been ongoing contact between officials and the North Pole over the past few weeks. Foreign Affairs Minister Micheal Martin had this to say after those…

Dec 23, 2024

An Post expecting to deliver almost 5 million Christmas cards ahead of the big day

Parcels arriving into An Post hubs today and tomorrow likely won't be delivered before Christmas. The postal service is promising anything which arrived by midnight last night will be with the recipient by the end of tomorrow. It's also expecting to deliver…

Dec 23, 2024

Irish Road Haulage Association has asked for financial compensation in the wake of the closure of Holyhead port

The Taoiseach is being urged to raise the closure of Holyhead port with the British Prime Minister. Representatives from the haulage sector met with the Junior Transport Minister this afternoon, where they said measures must be implemented now, before the…

Dec 23, 2024

Garda Checkpoints to increase over the Christmas period

There’ll be increased Garda checkpoints on roads over the next few days. It’s part of the Christmas Road Safety Campaign, which Gardaí say has a simple aim – to get everyone home safely. Chief Superintendent of the Garda Roads Policing Bureau Jane Humphries,…

Dec 23, 2024

Ballina among the five locations in Mayo this year where people are being encouraged to join in the GOAL mile event

The Ballina GOAL Mile returns this Christmas Day for its 21st year, taking place at Belleek Woods from 11:00am to 12:30pm. It’s one of five GOAL locations in Mayo this Christmas, with the event also taking place in Lough Lannagh, Castlebar the same day from…

Dec 23, 2024

Gardaí investigating the theft of a tractor in the Keash area of Sligo

Gardaí in Sligo are investigating the theft of farm machinery in the county yesterday afternoon. An Garda Síochána say that they are aware of an unauthorized taking of a tractor in the Keash area of Ballymote on Sunday December 22 at approximately 4:00pm. No…

Dec 23, 2024

Calls for Mayo County Council to sort river flooding problems "once and for all"

Councillors in the Westport Belmullet Municipal District are continuing their call for local rivers to be cleaned out as flooding continues to cause devastating problems to farmers across the region. Independent cllr Johno O’Malley raised the issue at the…

Dec 23, 2024

Nursing Homes across the region to benefit from €9.5 million funding boost

Nursing homes owners are welcoming a €9.5 million funding boost - but say it doesn't go far enough. They can claim the cost of structural works for fire precautions and infection control, under the government's Resident Safety Improvement Scheme. It applies…

Dec 23, 2024

House prices soar in the west of Ireland, rising twice as fast as the east in the last year

The price of a house in the west of Ireland has increased at twice the rate of the east coast in the last year. That’s according to the Q4 Irish Independent REA Average House Price Index. Three bedroom semi-detached homes in Mayo, Sligo, Rosocmmon, Galway,…

Dec 23, 2024

Sligo private school hikes prices by almost 20% after exclusion from grant funding

The Sligo Grammar School has hiked its fees this year up 19%, due to rising costs and exclusion from Department of Education grants. This increase applies to day pupils whose fees this year stand at €4,900, while there’s also been a 10% increase for borders…

Dec 23, 2024

Crime wave continues in Roscommon after home ransacked in Boyle

A home in County Roscommon was broken into by thieves over the weekend and subsequently ransacked. The incident took place at a residence in the Church View area of Boyle, sometime between 4:00pm and 6:30pm on Saturday afternoon. It is understood that nothing…

Dec 22, 2024

Three arrested following thefts in Roscommon

Three people have been arrested in connection with a number of thefts in County Roscommon. Goods worth a total value of €800 were stolen from a number of retail outlets in the county town. Yesterday afternoon, two males and one female were apprehended by…

Dec 22, 2024

COPE Galway are encouraging people to turn out to their annual Christmas Day swim

COPE Galway are encouraging people to turn up this Christmas and support their annual Christmas Day swim. Now in its 35th year, it has become a highlight for many over the festive period. All funds raised by people taking part go to COPE Galway, which helps…

Dec 22, 2024

Over 53,000 left emergency departments without being seen in first half of 2024

Over 53,000 people walked out of emergency departments in the first six months of the year before being seen by a doctor. HSE figures reveal the average number of "did not waits" at EDs around the country averaged 300 per day between the months of January and…

Dec 22, 2024

Environmental Protection Agency launch campaign to 'Stop Food Waste'

It's almost Christmas, and many households will know that means lots of groceries purchased and the stocking up of food for the festivities. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is encouraging the public to stop, think, and plan and to do their best…

Dec 22, 2024

Status Yellow wind warning for Mayo and other counties expires this afternoon

There's a wet and windy day ahead for most of the country - with a chance of hail, sleet or even snow on hills and mountains. A Status Yellow wind warning is also in place for Clare, Kerry, Limerick, Donegal, Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim, until 3:00pm this…

Dec 21, 2024

Snow and ice warning increases chance of a white Christmas in Leitrim

A white Christmas has just moved a bit closer. Met Eireann's issued a snow and ice warning for five counties. The Status Yellow warning is for wintry showers of hail, sleet and snow, possible tonight and for a time tomorrow morning - affecting Cavan, Donegal,…

Dec 21, 2024

Public urged to be mindful of the signs of loneliness this Christmas

As the festive season approaches, a national mental health charity is urging people to be mindful of the signs of loneliness. The holidays can be a time of joy for many, but for others, they bring heightened feelings of isolation, sadness and disconnection.…

Dec 21, 2024

Motorists urged to slow down after 189 caught speeding nationwide yesterday

Gardaí will be checking for speeding over the weekend. 189 drivers were caught speeding on National Slow Down Day yesterday. Their Christmas Road Safety Campaign is also warning people against using their mobiles while driving.

Dec 21, 2024

Status Yellow Wind Warning in place for Mayo today

Parts of the country are under a status yellow wind warning until tomorrow afternoon. A wind alert, affecting Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo and Sligo will remain in place until 2:00pm on Sunday. A yellow wind warning is also in place for Clare, Kerry and…

Dec 21, 2024

Victim of serious assault in Castlebar remains in stable condition in hospital

Gardaí in Co. Mayo are continuing their investigation of a serious assault on a male which took place at Tucker Street, Castlebar at approximately 3:00am on Friday, 20th December 2024. A man aged in his 20s was brought to Mayo University Hospital where he is…

Dec 20, 2024

Teacher, Castlebar native, released from jail

Castlebar native, Enoch Burke will be fined 1 thousand 400 euro per day if he returns to Wilsons Hospital School in County Westmeath. The High Court today ordered the schoolteacher’s release from Mountjoy Prison, on the basis he comply with the court order to…

Dec 20, 2024

Gardai appeal for witnesses to serious assault on a young man in Castlebar in the early hours of this morning

Gardaí are continuing to investigate a serious assault on a young man which took place at Tucker Street, Castlebar at approximately 3am this morning A man aged in his 20s was brought to Mayo University Hospital where he is currently receiving treatment for…

Dec 20, 2024

Status Yellow Wind warning extended to three additional counties from tomorrow

A second status yellow weather warning for wind has been issued. Met Éireann says Clare, Kerry and Limerick can expect strong and gusty winds from the West. It begins at 3pm tomorrow and runs for 24 hours. This is in addition to another wind warning affecting…

Dec 20, 2024

Gardai advise of high levels of smishing (text message fraud)

The Gardai through the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) have been contacted by numerous banks and financial institutions who are experiencing very high levels of smishing (text message) fraud. Rather than placing links within the fraudulent text,…

Dec 20, 2024

Public urged to make a will

The Law Society of Ireland is highlighting the importance of making a will and are encouraging residents across the region to plan ahead in 2025. Gary Mulchrone is the President of the Mayo Solicitors’ Bar Association, and is a solicitor at Thomas Walsh…

Dec 20, 2024

Young man hospitalised following an incident in Castlebar in the early hours of this morning

A man was seriously assaulted in Castlebar town in the early hours of this morning. Gardai are investigating the incident which took place on Tucker Street, at approximately 3am this morning. A man, aged in his 20s, was brought to Mayo University Hospital,…

Dec 20, 2024

Protest taking place outside Tesco Castlebar this afternoon by members of the Mandate trade union

A protest is taking place outside Tesco in Castlebar today by members of the Mandate trade union. The protest was launched over pay negotiations. According to Mandate, the protests will continue until Tesco agree to “respect their workers”. Mandate says it…

Dec 20, 2024

Met Eireann issue status yellow wind warning from tomorrow morning

Met Eireann have issued a status yellow wind warning for counties Mayo, Galway and Sligo. The warning comes into effect from 3am on Saturday morning until 2pm on Sunday afternoon. Met Eireann have warned of Sustained strong and gusty westerly winds veering…

Dec 20, 2024

Gardai arrest 3 people in connection with burglaries in a number of counties including Mayo and Galway

Gardaí have arrested three people as part of an intelligence-led operation targeting an organised criminal group suspected of committing burglaries at commercial properties in Galway, Mayo, Cork, Kildare and Wexford. Two locations in the Dublin Metropolitan…

Dec 20, 2024

Approval has been granted for additional accommodation to Glencorrib National School, Shrule

Approval has been granted for additional accommodation at Glencorrib National School in Shrule. That's according to Minister Alan Dillon. The work will see the construction of a new mainstream classroom and the reconfiguration of 2 smaller rooms to provide a…

Dec 20, 2024

Tucker street in Castlebar closed to traffic this morning following an incident

Gardai are at the scene of an incident in Castlebar this morning. Its understood the incident occurred in the early hours of this morning. Tucker street in the town is closed to traffic as a result. The road is expected to remain closed for a number of hours.…

Dec 20, 2024

First Time Buyer properties have risen by 88 thousand euro in 5 years

There's been a shift in First Time Buyer activity from second hand to new homes in some parts of the country.Their median property values increased by 100,000 euro or more in Wicklow, Galway, Limerick and the Midlands over 5 years.Overall First Time Buyer…

Dec 20, 2024

Today marks the final National Slow Down Day of the year as thousands of people take to roads this weekend to make the journey home for Christmas

A nationwide 24-hour speed enforcement operation is underway as Gardaí confirm that more than 150 thousand fixed charge notices for speeding were issued so far this year.Today marks the final National Slow Down Day of the year as thousands of people take to…

Dec 19, 2024

National Slow Down Day on Irish Roads tomorrow

An Garda Síochána will conduct a 24-hour speed enforcement operation nationwide from 7am tomorrow morning in partnership with the Road Safety Authority. Tomorrow is the final National Slow Down Day of the year and as thousands of people take to Irish roads…

Dec 19, 2024

HSE in Mayo preparing for significant increases in influenza and respiratory illness

Health services in Mayo are preparing for further significant increases in influenza and respiratory illness in the coming days and weeks. The impact of flu circulating in the community has a direct impact on the capacity of health services, both in…

Dec 19, 2024

investigations underway into cause of foul odour from Castlebar Sewage Treatment plant

A foul odour is causing concern for many residents in Castlebar town environs at present. The severe odour appears to be emanating from the waste water treatment plant located on the Turlough Road. Local Fine Gael councillor Ger Deere says he has received…

Dec 19, 2024

Mayo Minister announces commencement of the increase in funding for housing adaptation grants

A local Minister has announced the commencement of revised Housing Adaptation Grants of up to €40,000. New figures released show that a total of almost €3 million has been allocated to Mayo County Council for these grants over the past 12 months. The…

Dec 19, 2024

Plenty of Christmas cheer in the county town as the countdown to the big day continues

“Brisk and busy, with plenty of Christmas cheer “ is how the county town is being described this afternoon by the Cathaoirleach of the Castlebar Municipal District, Donna Sheridan. The Cathaoirleach says the run up to Christmas has been packed with new and…

Dec 19, 2024

Last day to ensure the delivery or parcels and letters in Ireland for Christmas is this week

The final dates for posting Christmas cards and parcels are in the coming days, and An Post is reminding customers to get down to their local post office this weekend to ensure delivery in time for Christmas. Today, Thursday 19th, is the final date for…

Dec 19, 2024

Farmer who threw a bag of cow dung at former Galway TD receives community service order

A farmer who was convicted of assaulting former TD Anne Rabbitte by throwing a bag of cow dung at her has been given a community service order in lieu of a prison sentence. Joseph Baldwin of Ballyaneen, Gort, Co Galway, was convicted of assault and of…

Dec 19, 2024

We hear from the Ballina Cathaoirleach about the atmosphere in the town in the build up to Christmas

As Christmas day is fast approaching business appears brisk in Ballina this festive season. Midwest News Editor Teresa O’Malley has been talking to Crossmolina based Cathaoirleach of Ballina Municipal District Michael Loftus about the atmosphere in the north…

Dec 19, 2024

People are being warned not to post pictures of their Christmas gifts online this year

Don't post pictures of your big ticket Christmas gifts on social media for all to see. That's the warning from Peopl Insurance which says burglars could target potential victims by checking Facebook and Instagram. Homeowners are also asked not to advertise…

Dec 19, 2024

New figures show significant drop in school attendance since Covid pandemic

New figures show there's been a significant drop in school attendance since the Pandemic. The number of students missing for more than 20 days has doubled at primary level. The figures show that in the 2022 to 2023 academic year more than 25 per cent of…

Dec 19, 2024

GAA looking to take complete control of GAAGO

The GAA is looking to take complete control of the streaming service GAAGO. According to the Irish Times negotiations to buy out RTE's 50 per cent stake in the pay-per-view platform are expected to ramp up in the new year. GAAGO generated 5.23 million euro in…

Dec 18, 2024

Ballina student a finalist in a national poetry competition

Lucy Murphy from St. Mary's Secondary School, Ballina has been recognised as finalist in this year’s Poetry Aloud competition. The competition challenges second-level students across the island of Ireland to recite a prescribed poem from memory. Organised by…

Dec 18, 2024

First ever woman Ceann Comhairle elected to 34th Dail

Verona Murphy has taken her seat as the first female Ceann Comhairle. The Independent Wexford TD was elected on the first day of the 34th Dail. There were smiles and hugs here at Leinster House this morning as the 174 TDs arrived for the 34th Dail. But the…

Dec 18, 2024

150 patients a day presenting at the ED of MUH over the last number of days

There’s a 30 percent increase in the number of patients presenting at the emergency department of Mayo University Hospital over the past number of days, and as a result patients and their families are experiencing significant waiting times. Mary Warde, Health…

Dec 18, 2024

Midwest News talks to the new Coroner for Mayo

Crossmolina based Dr. Eleanor Fitzgerald Loftus is now the sole coroner in Co. Mayo. This follows the decision of the Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee to amalgamate the two remaining coronial districts in Mayo following the retirement earlier this year of…

Dec 18, 2024

Belmullet man says he won't contest upcoming Seanad Elections

Belmullet based business man Padraic Conroy has announced that he will not be contesting the forthcoming Seanad Elections. In a statement to Midwest News he says- “It is with personal sadness /regret that I will not be contesting the forthcoming Seanad…

Dec 18, 2024

Calls for balance of gender within the next cabinet as record number of female TD's take their seat in the Dail

As Government formation talks continue, there are calls for a balance of gender in the cabinet. Women for Election are making the call, as a record number of female TD's have taken their seats in Dail Eireann. 44 TD's in the 34rd Dail are women, and while…

Dec 18, 2024

Gardai appeal for witnesses to serious collision in Sligo town yesterday evening

On Tuesday evening at approximately 7:30pm, Gardaí were alerted after a woman in her 40s was struck by a van in a car park on Cranmore Road, Sligo. Emergency services, including Gardaí and ambulance personnel, attended at the scene. The injured woman was…

Dec 18, 2024

Woman critially injured following road traffic incident in Galway City last night

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following a serious road traffic incident that occurred on Shantalla Road, Galway, in the early hours of this morning. A woman aged in her 50s, who was travelling on an electric scooter, was discovered with serious injuries…

Dec 18, 2024

Man missing from Leitrim since last week has been located safe and well

23 year old Evan Maguire who was reported missing from his home in Newtowngore, Co. Leitrim, since Wednesday 11th December , has been located safe and well. An Garda Síochána would like to thank the public for their assistance.

Dec 18, 2024

Almost 70% of doctors are frequently burnt out according to new survey

Two thirds of Irish doctors are frequently burnt out and exhausted, according to a new survey by the Medical Protection Society. One in five say they're concerned about their mental health , while over half feel disillusioned and disengaged at work. The…

Dec 18, 2024

Gardai attending the scene of a collision in Foxford this morning

Motorists are being advised to avoid the N58 Straide to Foxford road this morning. Gardai are en route to the single vehicle collision. There may be delays for motorists using the route this morning. No further details available at present.

Christmas atmosphere "upbeat", according to the Cathaoirleach of the Swinford/ Ballinrobe Municipal District

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