Details

Dr. Norah Patten has been named as Grand Marshal for the 2025 St Patrick's Day parade in Ballina.

Dr. Patten continues to inspire a new generation with her journey toward becoming the first Irish person to travel to space on a future research spaceflight with Virgin Galactic.

A native of Ballina, Dr. Patten was announced as a crew member with the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences IIAS-02 mission and has spent years pursuing her dream of space travel. With a background in aeronautical engineering.

She has worked extensively in the field of space exploration, advocating for STEM education and inspiring young people across Ireland and beyond.

The 2025 Ballina St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Monday, 17th March at 3pm and this year’s theme, 'Reach for the Stars,' is a fitting tribute to Dr. Patten’s incredible journey.

(Photo credit - Trevor Godinho)

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  • Jan 31, 2025

    Tens of thousands remain without power one week after Storm Éowyn

    Tens of thousands remain without power across the country this morning, a full week after Storm Éowyn. According to the ESB PowerCheck map, counties in the west continue to be the worst affected. Some homes, farms and businesses in Mayo will be waiting until…
  • Jan 31, 2025

    Woman hospitalised following Castlerea collision

    A woman was hospitalised yesterday evening following a road traffic collision in County Roscommon. Gardaí and emergency services were called to the scene of a single vehicle incident on the R377 in Castlerea. The collision took place at around 6:45pm, and the…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Gardai charge man in connection with organised criminal activity in Galway

    As part of an ongoing investigation into organised criminal activity in Co Galway and surrounding areas, Gardaí have arrested and charged a man. Following a search operation at a residential property in Gort on the morning of Monday, 27th January, a man (aged…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Emergency services at the scene of fire in Galway

    Emergency services are at the scene of a fire at a business park in Galway.A partial evacuation of Claregalway Corporate Park is underway, and nearby schools are also being evacuated.People are being urged to avoid the area.
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Emergency Response Hubs remain running throughout the county

    Following Storm Éowyn, a dedicated Emergency Response Hub phone number (094) 9064660 has been set up for the public to contact, they can also contact the hub via email to community@mayococo.ie. A multi agency meeting convened as part of the response to…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Mayo Fine Gael Deputy says many of her constituents are left frustrated a week after the storm

    The ESB says it is difficult to predict the exact dates of when power will be restored to the more than 100,000 customers who remain without power seven days after Storm Éowyn. They say the effort to restore electricity to around 108,000 premises will…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    VHI set to increase premiums this March

    Vhi has announced it's putting up its prices.Health insurance plans will rise by 3 per cent on average from the 1st of March.The company says it's needed because of a sustained rise in the number of people accessing healthcare and the associated costs of…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Long delays again today at Hospital ED's

    Long delays are facing patients presenting at hospital emergency departments right across the country today. 73 patients are waiting for a bed at University Hospital Galway, the second highest nationally today. 26 patients are on trolleys at Sligo University…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Mayo Co Co offer free food waste drop off

    To support recycling of excess food waste after storm Eowyn, Mayo county council will be providing a free food waste drop off service for householders who do not have the capacity in their kerbside brown bins or are not on a kerbside collection route. The…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Vocational panel polls closed in Seanad elections

    Polls have just closed in the Seanad election for the vocational panels. A number of former TDs are seeking election to the senate with votes to be counted over the weekend.Independent Senator Michael McDowell was the first person elected to the new Seanad…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Cash is "king" in the aftermath of Storm Eowyn

    Cash has been "king" in the aftermath of Storm Eowyn, according to Independent councillor Michael Kilcoyne. He said the last number of days has again highlighted the absolute disaster of a “cashless society”. “When broadband and electricity are down, your…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Four arrested following Galway retail robbery

    Gardaí have arrested four men following a robbery at a retail premises at Liosbán Industrial Estate in Galway on yesterday (Wed). At approximately 5pm, three males forced their way into the staff area of the premises and attempted to take stock. The vehicle…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Around 600 customers remain without water in Sligo

    Water supply has been restored to the majority of Uisce Éireann customers in County Sligo. Approximately 600 customers remain without supply. This is down from a peak of approximately 2,500 customers who were without water across the county in the aftermath…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Over 20% of Castlebar households without vital services six days after storm

     The impact of Storm Eowyn on the Castlebar Municipal District was discussed at yesterday’s monthly meeting of the District. Standing Orders were suspended to discuss the matter. Councillors insisted that lessons need to be learned as many people in the area…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Street closed as premises deeemed "a risk to the public"

    A premises on Lower Charles Street in Castlebar where an explosion occurred on Sunday night last is at present deemed “a risk to the public”. Elected councillors have been told that the street will remain closed to traffic for a number of days yet, as…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Belleek Woods in Ballina set to be closed for three weeks following storm damage

    Belleek Woods is set to be closed for three weeks following recent damage caused by Storm Éowyn. Ballina based councillor Mark Duffy has confirmed the news in a social media post. Cllr. Duffy says that unfortunately Belleek Woods has to be closed for three…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    IFA says 13,000 farmers waiting on ACRES payments must be paid immediately

    IFA Rural Development Chair John Curran has called on the Department to pull out all the stops to ensure all outstanding ACRES payments are paid out as a matter of priority. Close on one-in four ACRES participants are still waiting on their advance 2024 ACRES…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Housing output could be as low as 32,000 this year

    A new report forecasts the housing output this year could be as low as 32 thousand units. That would fall far short of the Government's stated ambition of up to 50 thousand new homes a year until 2030. The Mitchell McDermott Annual Construction Sector Report…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    TUI says Government must do more to recruit & retain more teachers

    Just 3 per cent of secondary teachers think the Government is doing enough to fix the recruitment and retention crisis in the education sector. A new survey from the Teachers’ Union of Ireland has found 75 per cent of advertised teaching jobs in the last 6…
  • Jan 30, 2025

    Gardai reminding public to be vigilant for bogus tradesmen in wake of Storm Eowyn

    Gardai are reminding the public to watch out for bogus tradesmen in the wake of Storm Eowyn. They're also advising the public to be careful with unannounced visitors over the coming days. Officers say they're also aware of scam texts claiming to be from the…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Local TD's secure junior ministerial positions

    Just four of the nineteen Junior Ministers approved by the Government this afternoon are women. Fianna Fail's Niamh Smyth and Jennifer Murnane O'Connor have been promoted. While outgoing Minister Emer Higgins keeps her place for Fine Gael and Independent…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    80,000 customers in this region remain without power

    133 thousand farms, homes and businesses remain without power after Storm Eowyn. Technicians from Austria, Finland and the UK are on the ground in the worst affected areas, assisting restoration efforts. 7 thousand 500 premises remain without water. 80,000…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Gardai at the scene of RTC in Castlebar

    Gardai are at the scene of a road traffic collision at Springfield roundabout in Castlebar, which is down by the old army barracks. The road is closed to traffic and motorists asked to avoid the area if possible. Lower Charles street also remains closed due…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Mayo Deputy calling for army to deployed to help with restoring power & water

    A Mayo Deputy is calling for the army to be deployed to help with the storm damage. Erris based Sinn Fein TD Rose Conway-Walsh says many people are in a desperate situation right now and feels the army could help speed up the target dates for the restoration…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Mayo train service resumed today

    The Westport/Ballina to Athlone rail services has resumed today. That's the rail service from Mayo to Dublin. A bus service had been in operation since last Friday's storm between Mayo and Athlone. The Irish Rail website says the train service resumed today.
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Success for local hotels at Virgin Media Business Gold Medal awards

    Ashford Castle were among the top winners at this year's Virgin Media Business Gold Medal awards last night in Galway. The awards program, now in its 35th year, are known for recognizing excellence in Irish hospitality industry. Ashford Castle took home gold…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Deputy baffled why Irish Water hasn't a generator at every treatment plant

    It’s inexplicable why there are so many households without water at present due to the Storm Éowyn, according to Roscommon /Galway deputy Michael Fitzmaurice. The Independent Ireland deputy says Irish Water haS a lot to answer for, considering that pipes are…
  • Jan 29, 2025

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

    University Hospital Galway is the second most overcrowded hospital in the country today with 86 patients on trolleys. It comes after a 100 patients were on trolleys at the Galway Hospital yesterday. The latest figures from the INMO show there are 59 patients…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Straide hall open today for the community

    The Straide Davitt Community Hall now has electricity and there is a Kettle, Cooker, Microwave and Air fryer in the Kitchen. It also has a small supply of bottled water for tea making/flasks, as it awaits water supply restoration. WIFI is not yet available.…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Funeral details confirmed for man who died in road traffic incident in Castlerea

    The funeral details have been confirmed for a well-known businessman who lost his life in a road traffic incident in Co Roscommon. Tommy Bruen (84) died after he was hit by a car while out walking on the R337 near Castlerea just after 6pm on Monday. Mr Bruen…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Long traffic delays expected in Castlebar this morning following street closure

    Lower Charles Street in Castlebar remains closed to traffic this morning, following an explosion at a premises on Sunday evening. Two people were injured following that is believed to have been a gas explosion at the Tulsi Indian restaurant. Those who were…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Letters being sent to around 800 expectant mothers due to give birth at Portiuncula Hospital

    Letters are being sent to around 800 expectant mothers due to give birth at Portiuncula Hospital. The letters inform the women about the external review being taken into the birth of nine babies at the hospital over concerns about their delivery. The HSE says…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Around 260 premises in Mayo remain without water in Mayo this morning

    Approximately 260 premises in Mayo remain without water this morning supplying 700 customers. This is down from a peak of more than 35,000 customers following Storm Éowyn. Following huge efforts, we can confirm that we have now deployed and installed…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Cabinet to sign off on appointment of 19 Junior Ministers this morning

    Cabinet will sign off on the appointment of 19 Junior Ministers this morning. While supports for those affected by Storm Eowyn will also be discussed. Having appointed his Cabinet last week Micheál Martin will reveal the line up of Junior Ministers today.…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    142,000 ESB customers remain without power this morning

    Emergency teams are again working to renew power and water supplies around the country this morning. As of last night, 142 thousand customers were still without power and around 31 thousand had no water. Both the ESB and Uisce Éireann are thanking customers…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    Voting closes & counting gets underway in Seanad elections today

    Voting closes and counting gets underway in part of the Seanad elections today. Postal voting for the NUI and Trinity College panels will close at 11am. Graduates of those institutions have been voting to elect six Senators. Among those in contention are…
  • Jan 29, 2025

    More than 850 post offices now open nationwide following storm-related closures

    More than 850 post offices are now open nationwide, following storm-related closures. An Post says details of offices where customers can collect DSP payments are listed at 'anpost.com'. Payments due this week are ready for collection - along with payments…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Castlerea to Ballintubber road reopens to traffic

    The R377 Castlerea to Ballintubber road has reopened this afternoon following a fatal road traffic collision. A man in his 80s has died following a road traffic collision in Castlerea. Shortly after 6:00pm yesterday evening, Gardaí and emergency services…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Local TD's among those on Sinn Fein's new front bench ahead of new Dail term

    The Sinn Fein leader admits the party will need to do more if it wants to be in Government. Mary Lou McDonald appointed her front bench for the new Dail term this morning. She retains Eoin O'Broin in Housing, Pearse Doherty in Finance and David Cullinane in…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Section of Quay Road on Mayo/ Sligo border closed following crash

    Sligo County Council have confirmed that a section of the Quay Road between Enniscrone and Ballina is now closed following a raod collision. A single vehicle incident took place this morning at Killanly House, and it is understood that nobody was seriously…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Over half of Ireland's water outages are in Mayo

    According to the most recent data from Uisce Éireann, over 11,000 customers remain without water following storm Éowyn. Around 6,000 homes, farms and businesses are without water in County Mayo this afternoon. The majority of these outages are in the East of…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Knock Shrine offering a number of facilities to the public today

    St John's Rest and Care in Knock have opened to the public today, and are offering a number of services to the community. That's according to Fr Richard Gibbons. He says that tea, coffee, soup, sandwiches and charging facilities will be made available while…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Michael Ring is the 2025 Mayo Person of the Year

    Mayo Association Dublin have today announced the 2025 Mayo Person of the Year. Chairperson of the organisation Noel Howley made the announcement this morning on the Tommy Marren Show. This year’s accolade goes to Westport’s Michael Ring, who recently retired…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Ballina/Westport rail route remains non-operational today due to power outages in the west

    Irish Rail says all services are operating except on the Ballina/Westport route. Bus transfers will operate from Mayo and Roscommon to Athlone - while trains will then travel to Dublin. Irish Rail says it’s due to ongoing and widespread power outages in the…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Emergency Response Hubs running throughout the county

    Following Storm Éowyn, a dedicated Emergency Response Hub phone number (094) 9064660 has been set up for the public to contact, they can also contact the hub via email to community@mayococo.ie. A multi agency meeting convened as part of the response to…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Gardaí attending collision between Ballina & Enniscrone

    Gardaí and emergency services are attending the scene of a single vehicle road accident close to the Mayo/ Sligo border. The collision occurred at Killanley House, located in Castleconnor on the Quay Road from Enniscrone to Ballina. No serious injuries have…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    University Hospital Galway among the most overcrowded nationally today

    Long delays are facing patients at hospital emergency departments across the region today. 100 patients remain on trolleys at University Hospital Galway, the second most overcrowded nationally today. 56 patients are waiting for admission at Sligo University…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Over 70 post offices remain closed across the country today

    More than 70 post offices remain closed across the country due to power outages following Storm Éowyn. An Post is warning while some offices are open, social welfare payments could be delayed due to damage to communication systems. Customers are advised to go…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Taoiseach to visit communities impacted by Storm Éowyn in Roscommon today

    An Taoiseach Mícheál Martin is in County Roscommon today to meet communities who have been affected by Storm Éowyn. Firstly, he’ll be at the Emergency Response Hub at d’Gaff Community and Youth Centre in Castlerea at 11:15am, before travelling to…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Review ongoing into births at Portiuncula Hospital

    Pregnant women, who are worried about their care at Portiuncula Hospital, are being urged to contact the HSE. A review is being carried out into the births of nine babies at the hospital over concerns about their delivery. Six of the babies needed neonatal…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Lower Charles Street, Castlebar sealed off again this morning

    Lower Charles Street in Castlebar has been sealed off once again this morning, following an explosion at a premises on Sunday evening. Two people were injured following that is believed to have been a gas explosion at the Tulsi Indian restaurant. Those who…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Appeal issued on Crimecall last night over the disappearance of Sandra Collins

    Mayo-based Gardaí who are investigating the disappearance and murder of Sandra Collins in December 2000, issued an appeal on RTÉ Crimecall last night. The last confirmed sighting of Sandra was on the night of Monday, December 4, 2000 at approximately 11:00pm…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Male pedestrian (80s) has died following a collision in Castlerea

    A man in his 80s has died following a road traffic collision in Castlerea. Shortly after 6:00pm yesterday evening, Gardaí and emergency services responded to a collision involving a car and a pedestrian on the R377 on the outskirts of Castlerea. The…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    100,000 without water with repairs of double storm destruction ongoing

    Generators will be moved from the south to the north west to help get water supplies back up and running after the recent storms. Uisce Eireann says 100,000 people remained without access to water yesterday as it looks to bring supplies back on stream. Many…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    180,000 without power overnight, with aid coming from European countries

    Emergency crews from the Netherlands, France, Austria and Finland are due to arrive from today to help the ESB restore electricity supply to homes and businesses across the country. As of last night there were still 180,000 premises without power since storm…
  • Jan 28, 2025

    Many schools remain closed across the region with no power or water

    A number of schools across the region remain closed this morning as power and water is yet to be restored following Storm Éowyn. The following schools will NOT open today: Barncarroll N.S. Cross N.S. Little Acorns Children’s Centre, Brickens Gortaganny N.S.…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    Water situation in Ballaghaderreen 'slightly improving'

    Looking to the water situation in Ballaghaderreen, local cllr Micheál Frain says that things are slightly improving this evening. The local water treatment plant went down as a result of the Storm on Friday evening, and the reservoir ran out of water on…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    Mayo County Council establish Emergency Response Hub service

    Mayo County Council are continuing to work to help to public get back to normality as many are without power and water following Storm Éowyn. In recent days, MCC staff have worked to ensure that everyone has road access to be able to get out of their homes in…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    Councillor praises frontline staff for restoration of water to MUH

    The cleanup operation is continuing across the county in the wake of Storm Éowyn’s destruction in recent days. In the county town, power and water services are returning to the majority of residents. It has been a difficult few days in Castlebar, particularly…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    17 collisions in Mayo since Storm Éowyn landed

    Since Storm Éowyn hit Mayo, 17 road traffic accidents have been reported across the county, according to Mayo County Council. It is understood that the extent of these collisions has not resulted in any serious injuries. Road conditions across the county are…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    ESB restore power to 228,000 customers

    ESB Networks have restored power to 540,000 customers impacted by Storm Éowyn since last Friday. Efforts to reconnect the remaining 228,000 homes, farms and businesses are continuing. The ESB are warning that it could be next week before power in some areas…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    RTÉ Crimecall to air special on Sandra Collins tonight

    RTÉ will air a special segment on Crimecall tonight, regarding the investigation into the disappearance of Sandra Collins. Sandra was 29 years old and pregnant when she went missing from Killala on December 4 2000. She was last seen at the Country Kitchen…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    County Storm Response Group established in Roscommon

    Roscommon County Council have issued a statement regarding the ongoing impact of Storm Éowyn on the locality. Wind speeds in Roscommon late last week reached highs of 160 km/h during the weather warning. Roscommon County Council is working with the ESB, Uisce…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    Water available at Ballaghaderreen Fire Station

    Cllr Micheál Frain has informed Midwest News that water is available for those who need it in Ballaghaderreen at the Fire Station. Two fire service water tankers are in place, where people can avail of water for needs like toilet flushing. There is a limited…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    Local councillor reflects on a special day for the community of Crossmolina

    Celebrations are continuing in Crossmolina today after the Deel Rovers captured the All Ireland Intermediate Championship yesterday afternoon in Croke Park. Conor Loftus scored a winning penalty with the last kick of the game for Crossmolina, snatching…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    Mayo County Council Emergency Response team have met to plan continued clean up

    Mayo County Council’s Emergency Response Team met this morning to plan for the continued clean up and community response following Storm Éowyn last Friday. A dedicated Emergency Response Hub phone number (094) 9064660 has been set up for the public to call,…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    We hear from staff and students from Crossmolina NS, as celebrations continue following their All Ireland win yesterday

    Celebrations are continuing in Crossmolina today, following their All Ireland Intermediate win yesterday in Croke Park. They served up a cracking encounter with Ulster Champions Ballinderry. Crossmolina, who were a point down in the closing minutes of the…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    Charlestown councillor calls for review of electricity infrastructure as thousands remain without power across the region

    The after effects of Storm Eowyn are still being felt right across the region. Over 200,000 homes and businesses remain without power today, with some of those set to remain without power until well into next week. For customers who are without power, many…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    Lower Charles Street in Castlebar has reopened to traffic this morning

    Lower Charles Street has reopened to traffic this morning following an explosion in a restaurant in the area last night. Two people were injured in what is believed to have been a gas explosion at the Indian restaurant, Tulsi, in Castlebar yesterday evening.…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    Disruption to water supply in East Mayo due to power outage at pumping station

    Uisce Éireann is aware that customers in parts of East Mayo and the Mayo/Roscommon border are experiencing a disruption to their water supply this morning. A power outage at Barnacarroll Pumping Station has affected customers in the following areas:…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    Investigations into explosion at Castlebar restaurant last night

    Traffic congestion can be expected in Castlebar town centre this morning as Lower Charles Street remains closed off to traffic following an explosion in a restaurant in the area last night. Two people were injured in what is believed to have been a gas…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    UK crews expected to arrive this week to assist in power restoration works

    Around 100 thousand homes and businesses could still be without power next week. Crews from the UK are expected to arrive this week to help with the remaining 246 thousand outages following Storm Éowyn.That's down from a peak of 768 thousand on Friday - with…
  • Jan 27, 2025

    Today marks the beginning of National Grief Awareness week

    National Grief Awareness week starts today.The Irish Hospice Foundation saw an increase of 18 per cent in the number of calls to its Bereavement Support line towards the end of last year, compared to 2023.The group says support during grief should be…
  • Jan 26, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: 278,000 without power

    As of 5:25pm today ESB Networks has restored supply to 490,000 homes, farms and businesses – 278,000 customers remain without supply, down from a peak of 768,000 on early Friday morning following the unprecedented impact of Storm Éowyn. ESB Networks has…
  • Jan 26, 2025

    Boil Water notices for Castlerea & Boyle

    Uisce Éireann has issued Boil Water Notices to protect the health of customers supplied by both the Castlerea Public Water Supply and Boyle Regional Supply Scheme in Co Roscommon. Following on from Storm Éowyn, the BWNs are being issued due to disinfection…
  • Jan 26, 2025

    Road blocked in Swinford following collision

    Gardaí are currently at the scene of a road collision in Swinford. A two car incident occurred this afternoon on the main road near to the Corrib Oil Service Station. No injuries have been reported. The road is currently blocked, and emergency services are…
  • Jan 26, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Water returning across Mayo

    Water supply is returning a large cohort of Uisce Éireann customers across County Mayo after power was restored to the Lough Mask Water Treatment Plant late yesterday evening. The plant, which supplies 48,000 was fully operational overnight and this morning…
  • Jan 26, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Westport & Ballina trains still off this morning

    The rail line from Sligo to Connolly is back up and running after Iarnród Éireann crews cleared the route in the wake of Storm Éowyn. The 9:05am service in both directions left on time this morning, so it is expected that this route will be fully operational…
  • Jan 26, 2025

    Increased support for Sinn Féin in opinion polls

    Sinn Fein has jumped ahead in the latest Business Post Red C poll. The party is up 3 points to 22%, neck on neck with Fianna Fail unchanged on 22, but Fine Gael is down 1 to 20. The Social Democrats are up 2 to 7, Aontú is unchanged on 4, but Labour's dropped…
  • Jan 26, 2025

    STORM HERMINIA: Wind warnings now in place

    A Status Yellow Wind warning remains in place this morning for the majority of the country. This comes as Storm Herminia, the Spanish storm, tracks towards Ireland looking to cause further destruction. Met Éireann issued the warning for Carlow, Kilkenny,…
  • Jan 26, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: 340,000 still without power

    There are approximately 340,000 customers across the country without power this morning following Storm Éowyn. That's down from a peak of 768,000. ESB Networks says it has restored power to 428,000 homes, farms and businesses since Friday, and crews will be…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Snow - ice warning now in place

    A yellow warning for snow and ice is in place tonight in the west and northwest. There will be scattered snow showers in Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo and Mayo. Met Éireann says the showers will become isolated overnight with icy stretches. The alert lasts for…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Bus transfers replace local rail tomorrow

    The Ballina/ Westport to Athlone train lines will remain closed tomorrow. Iarnród Éireann have issued the notice this evening, with a large amount of trees blocking tracks along the route. Bus transfers have been arranged to operate tomorrow instead.…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Water supplies available in Galway tomorrow

    Uisce Éireann crews have organised a number of alternative water supplies for customers in Co Galway who have been impacted by disruptions due to the non-restoration of power. Mid Galway Regional Water Supply Scheme: Monivea (near Post Office) and at the…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: 40% of the phone users in the country affected

    The estimated effect of Storm Éowyn on phone users is the largest in recording history, according to the Commission for Communications Regulation. However, Comreg added the impact has appeared to have peaked. A spokesperson says a total of 40 per cent of all…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: 12,000 without water nationwide

    120,000 people across the country are without water this evening. The worst affected areas are in the northwest of the country, particularly the Galway / Mayo area. Uisce Éireann crews continue to monitor the impact of Storm Éowyn on water supplies across the…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Over 400,000 remain in darkness

    402,000 homes and businesses are heading into another night without power. The ESB has restored electricity to 366,000 customers. It's asking people to stay away from fallen wires. Thousands are also still affected by water and communications outages. Storm…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Water restoration underway in Roscommon

    Uisce Éireann has mobilised crews to restore normal water supply to customers across County Roscommon. This follows widespread service disruptions in the county caused by the impact of Storm Éowyn. Power outages at treatment plants and pumping stations have…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Water restoration underway in Sligo

    Uisce Éireann crews are on the ground across Co Sligo today working to restore water supplies. We are actively sourcing and deploying generators at sites where power has not been restored. We are coordinating closely with the ESB to prioritise power…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Bus transfers in place for local train routes

    Iarnród Éireann have announced that a bus transfer service is in place for those looking to travel on the Sligo, Ballina and Westport routes. It comes following an announcement this morning that the routes were non-operational. Iarnród Éireann crews are…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: No water for 48,000 due to power outage in Tourmakeady

    Uisce Éireann crews are advising customers across County Mayo of a disruption to their water supply following a power outage at Lough Mask Water Treatment Plant. The outage at the treatment plant in Tourmakeady which supplies 48,000 customers has caused low…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Snow - ice warning issued for Mayo & North West

    A Status Yellow Snow – Ice warning has been issued for Mayo and counties in the North West. Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal will join Mayo under the warning which will come into effect at 8:00pm this evening. The warning will remain in place until 9:00am tomorrow…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: An Post hoping to open offices

    An Post say they're hopeful that Post Offices that were unable to open this morning, will be open by the end of the day. Some offices in the West and Midlands were forced to remain closed following the power outages caused by Storm Éowyn. An Post have also…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Flights operational at Ireland West Airport today

    All flights to and from Ireland West Airport Knock are operational today. However, phone lines and internet connection are both still down so the airport cannot be contacted. With no access to the internet, the airport will operate on a ‘cash only’ basis,…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Over half a million remain without power

    Around 528,000 homes, farms and businesses across the country are still without power this morning. ESB Networks crews have been out since first light to continue repair works and the Network have contacted British and French utilities for help. If you come…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Spanish storm to bring weather warnings tomorrow

    Heavy winds are set to hit the country, as a Spanish storm approaches Ireland. It comes less than 48 hours after Storm Eowyn brought record breaking gusts. A Status Yellow Wind Warning will be in place for most of the country from 5:00am tomorrow morning,…
  • Jan 25, 2025

    STORM ÉOWYN: Westport, Ballina and Sligo rail services suspended

    Iarnród Éireann have issued an update on rail services today. All services are operational except for the Dublin to Westport/ Ballina and Dublin to Silgo routes. These routes are suspended until further notice. Hundreds of fallen trees have been reported by…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Dara Calleary secures Senior Minister position

    Dara Calleary has secured a Senior Ministeral position in the new Government. The Fianna Fáil Minister will now lead the Department of Social Protection and Rural Affairs. Other notable changes from the previous government includes Darragh O'Brien moving to…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Ireland West Airport will be non-operational for a time tomorrow

    Ireland West Airport wishes to advise that the airport will be non-operational between the hours of 04:00 am and 13:00 pm on Friday, 24th January, due to the status red storm warning in place across the country. Storm Éowyn is forecasted to have gusts in…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Fianna Fail's Micheal Martin officially appointed Taoiseach

    Attention now turns to who will be in the next Cabinet, after Micheal Martin was appointed as Taoiseach for the second time.He received his seal of office from President Higgins after a vote of 95 votes to 76 in the Dail. Proceedings in Leinster House will…
  • Jan 23, 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 Monday, 20th January 2025. Jake is described as being approximately 5 feet 11 inches in height with a slim build,…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    All National Parks to remain closed tomorrow due to weather conditions

    The Department of Housing have issued a statement regarding Storm Eowyn. They say... In line with a Status red warning issued by Met Éireann, all National Parks and National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) sites will be closed on Friday 24th January. Public…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Mayo County Council issue statement regarding Storm Eowyn

    With a status red warning in effect for County Mayo from 4am Friday 24th January until midday on Friday 24th January, Mayo County Council Emergency response team have met to put in place arrangements where possible for this significant weather event. Crews…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    HSE issue warning over disruption tomorrow due to Storm Eowyn

    HSE West and North West is advising that there will be significant disruptions to health services as a result of Storm Eowyn (Friday, 23 January). The red weather warning will impact the entire region. During red warnings, people should stay indoors, avoid…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Dail has resumed

    The Dail has resumed to elect a Taoiseach - after extensive meetings between political party leaders this morning.It was to address the impasse which prevented the nomination of Taoiseach taking place yesterday.The opposition wanted assurances a group of…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Deliberative cafe due to take place in Ballina Saturday postponed

    A women's deliberative cafe that was due to place in Ballina Library this weekend has been postponed. It will rescheduled for a later date. We will have further details on that in due course.
  • Jan 23, 2025

    No postal service tomorrow

    An Post says there will be no deliveries or collections tomorrow.Post offices will stay closed for the duration of the red warning.It's expecting to run letter and parcel deliveries on Saturday and Sunday.An Post says post offices will re-open when it's safe…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Public urged to check on neighbours with Red Alert forecast

    Foxford Meals on Wheels has cancelled its services tomorrow Friday ,as a result of the weather. They say it is the first time ever that they have had to do so. As Storm Éowyn is expected to hit Ireland tonight and into tomorrow morning, Irish Rural Link – the…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Knock Shrine to close tomorrow under Red Weather Alert

    Fr Richard Gibbons, PP and Rector of Knock Shrine has advised that, for the safety of staff, parishioners and pilgrims, Knock Shrine will remain closed tomorrow, Friday, January 24th and will re-open on Saturday. Please follow the advice of Met Eireann and…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Radio stations to provide updated information during Red Wind Alert

    Ireland’s independent radio stations are ramping up preparations to ensure they are ready to quickly provide updated information to householders and businesses over the airwaves during the coming days, as the country braces itself for Storm Eowyn. Storm Eowyn…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Worse ever wind storm forecast tomorrow

    Storm Eowyn is expected to bring dangerous, destructive winds never seen in Ireland before.The entire country will fall under a status red wind warning from the early hours of tomorrow morning, starting in southern counties at 2am.Public Transport services…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Ceann Comhairle issues a statement re Dail grouping this morning

    The Ceann Comhairle has issued a statement in the past few minutes saying she won’t recognise a Dail grouping containing government supporters in effort to proceed with electing a Taoiseach.Verona Murphy has written to the Dail’s business committee to say she…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Worse Wind storm ever in Ireland predicted for Friday

    Storm Eowyn is now being predicted to be the worst to ever hit the country.A red warning comes into effect for the entire country from the early hours of tomorrow.Public Transport services won't run, schools, creches and colleges will be closed and employers…
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Minister Calleary hopeful Taoiseach will be elected today

    Following yesterday's mayhem in the Dail chamber, this morning Mayo deputy Minister of State Dara Calleary says he is hopeful that the Taoiseach will be elected later today. He spoke to Midwest News Editor Teresa O'Malley...
  • Jan 23, 2025

    Dail due to resume at 10.30am this morning

    Opposition parties will meet with the coalition party leaders at Government Buildings this morning. They're hoping to resolve the issues which led to explosive scenes in the Dail yesterday, delaying the election of Micheal Martin as Taoiseach. The house was…
  • Jan 22, 2025

    Public urged to take extreme caution in Red alert

    The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging the public to take extreme caution as a Red Weather Warning has been issued for the unprecedented and life-threatening Storm Éowyn. This is not a typical weather event—it has the potential to be a significant and…
  • Jan 22, 2025

    Dail suspended until tomorrow morning

    The Dáil has been suspended until tomorrow among chaotic scenes today. The resumed sitting of the house this afternoon lasted for all of four minutes, The irish Times is reporting. Chief Whip Hildegarde Naughton said an agreement had been reached between…
  • Jan 22, 2025

    Mayo deputy exits Dail's Regional Technical Group

    Aontú’s two TDs Mayo’s Paul Lawless and group leader Peadar Toibin have left the Dail’s Regional Technical Group. The group and the speaking rights they will have in the new Dáil are at the centre of the speaking rights row. The Dáil has been suspended three…
  • Jan 22, 2025

    Red wind warning extended to include Connaught counties

    A Status Red wind and rain warning has been extended to cover a total of 22 counties across the country, with Met Éireann warning of a possible "danger to life" as Storm Éowyn is expected to bring "damaging and destructive" winds. Met Éireann said likely…
  • Jan 22, 2025

    Deputy rules out Sligo hotel as a refugee accommodation centre

    The Department of Integration has confirmed to Sligo deputy Frank Feighin that it has a ‘no plans’ to procure The Yeats Country Hotel at Rosses Point for the provision of an asylum seeker or refugee accommodation centre. Following a query to the department of…
  • Jan 22, 2025

    Balla students make a strong case for a pedestrian crossing at the entrance to their secondary school

    Sophie Byrne is a Junior Cycle student at Balla Secondary School. The teenager , who attends one of the school’s additional needs classes, has courageously looked at a local road safety issue and has sought the assistance of Mayo County Councillors to address…
  • Jan 22, 2025

    Mayo lotto player scoops €500,000 in last night's EuroMillions Plus draw

    An online player from Mayo is logging onto a staggering €500,000, after matching all winning numbers in last night’s (Tuesday, 21st January) EuroMillions Plus draw. The winning numbers in the EuroMillions Plus draw were: 7, 12, 18, 29 and 41. The winner is…
  • Jan 22, 2025

    Women's deliberative cafe to be held in Ballina this weekend, looking at the different challenges facing women north and south of the border

    A women's delibarative cafe takes place in Ballina this weekend, discussing the pressing challenges women face on both sides of the border, and the future of constitutional change north and south. The deliberation events are the brainchild of Profs. Jennifer…
  • Jan 22, 2025

    Local TD's among those tipped for top ministerial positions

    Micheál Martin will be formally elected as Taoiseach later as a new Government forms, almost two months on from the general election. The Dáil will sit at 11am with Cabinet Ministers to be appointed across the afternoon. Micheál Martin will return for a…
  • Jan 21, 2025

    USI raise concerns over new programme for government

    The Union of Students is calling for more urgent action on housing and mental health.It's raising a number of concerns surrounding the new programme for government, including the broken manifesto promise from Fine Gael to abolish contribution fees.Student…
  • Jan 21, 2025

    Stormy conditions expected across the country this weekend

    The country is set to be hit with strong winds and heavy rain over the coming days. Storm Éowyn is expected to make landfall on Thursday or Friday.A weather advisory is currently in place until Friday night, but Met Éireann says more localised warnings will…
  • Jan 21, 2025

    No injuries reported following earlier collision in South Sligo

    Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a two vehicle collision on the N17 between Tubbercurry and Curry this morning. The incident took place at Cashel at around 9:00am, involving a car and a van. A stop/go system had to be put in place for some…
  • Jan 21, 2025

    Touching tributes paid to the late former Roscommon footballer Martin Fallon at his funeral today

    The Funeral Mass has taken place of the late Martin Fallon in Strokestown. Mr. Fallon, who worked as a paramedic, died suddenly while on duty last Thursday. He was aged in his mid 50s, and was attached to the Boyle Ambulance Base. Known locally as ‘Fozzy’ he…
  • Jan 21, 2025

    Mayo cllrs question multi million euro IT service with important emails going ‘missing’

    Mayo councillors are frustrated with the multi million euro IT service currently in place, claiming that some important emails that should be in their inbox are going ‘missing’. The issue was raised at the most recent meeting of Mayo County Council by…
  • Jan 21, 2025

    Fog warning issued for Roscommon as Storm Eowyn set to hit the west coast

    A Status Yellow fog warning has been issued for 15 counties in the midlands. Roscommon is one of those that will be affected from 10:00pm tonight. The warning will expire at 10:00am tomorrow morning (Wendesday). Meanwhile, a named storm is tracking towards…
  • Jan 21, 2025

    Delays on the N17 following collision near Tubbercurry

    Motorists are experiencing delays on the N17 this morning following a road traffic collision. An incident occurred at Cashel this morning between Curry and Tubbercurry, shortly after 9:00am. A car and a van were involved, and it is not yet known if anyone has…
  • Jan 21, 2025

    24 years on from the disappearance of Sandra Collins in Killala, Crimecall will air a special segment on the case in the coming days

    RTÉ will air a special segment on Crimecall next week, regarding the investigation into the disappearance of Sandra Collins. Aged 29 at the time, Sandra Collins went missing from Killala on December 4 2000. She was pregnant at the time, and was last seen at…
  • Jan 21, 2025

    While Tubbercurry Primary Care Centre news is welcome, the area has "been left behind"

    Tubbercurry could see construction of the long awaited Primary Care Centre in the town begin as early as October or November this year. The confirmation comes from an announcement made by local Fianna Fáil TD Eamon Scanlon yesterday, following correspondence…
  • Jan 21, 2025

    Government called upon to support community cafes in this region

    Community cafe operators say they need support from the Government so they can continue to tackle rural isolation. Around 30 hubs have been set up across Munster, Connacht and Leinster to provide a space for communities to gather and interact. Traditional…
  • Jan 21, 2025

    Former Roscommon footballer who died suddenly last week to be laid to rest later today

    A former Roscommon senior footballer who passed away suddenly last week will be laid to rest later today. Martin Fallon, also known as Fozzy, of Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, worked as a paramedic and died suddenly while on duty on Thursday last. Mr. Fallon,…
  • Jan 21, 2025

    Status Yellow fog warning causing difficult travelling conditions locally

    A Status Yellow fog warning remains in place for the entire country this morning. Met Éireann issued the warning yesterday afternoon, which then began at 8:00pm yesterday evening. Motorists are experiencing difficult travelling conditions across the region…
  • Jan 20, 2025

    Castlebar Cathaoirleach encourages everyone who is eligible to register for voting in the Seanad elections

    More graduates will have a vote in the future in the Seanad elections, however, not for the upcoming Seanad elections at the end of the month. Up to now only graduates of the National University of Ireland and Trinity College had a vote on the relevant Seanad…
  • Jan 20, 2025

    Fine Gael give green light to Programme for Government

    Fine Gael members have voted to ratify the Programme for Government. The Parliamentary Party approved the programme on a final vote of 93.9% in favour, with 6.1% opposed. The move will make way for a coalition between Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and a group of…
  • Jan 20, 2025

    Nationwide Statue Yellow fog warning issued

    Met Éireann has issued a national Status Yellow warning for fog. It begins at 8:00pm tonight and expires at 11:00am tomorrow. Forecasters say areas of dense fog will develop leading to reduced visibility and potentially hazardous travelling conditions.
  • Jan 20, 2025

    Date set for trial for attempted murder of priest in Galway

    A date has been set for the trial of a teenage boy accused of the attempted murder of a priest at an army barracks in Galway. The boy, who can't be identified because of his age, is due to go before a jury at the Central Criminal Court in May. On the August…
  • Jan 20, 2025

    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 Emergency Department in MUH is extremely busy with almost 200 patients attending over the weekend. There are currently 38 patients on…
  • Jan 20, 2025

    Roscommon University Hospital appoints Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Diabetes

    Roscommon University Hospital is delighted to announce the appointment of Brid Ni Chlochartaigh to the role of Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) in Diabetes. In her role as Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Diabetes, Brid plays a vital role in managing the care…
  • 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,…