The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Foxford & District Annual Collection takes place this weekend, Saturday and Sunday 9th and 10th December in Foxford, Toomore, Straide, Callow and Knockmore Chuches. SVP Foxford assists people in need in the local community…

The number of Ukrainian refugees and international protection applicants arriving in Ireland each week, remains high. The most up-to-date figures have been released as the government continues to struggle to source accommodation. Barry Whyte reports...

484 people are waiting for beds in Irish hospitals today, according to the INMO Trolley Watch figures. 54 patients are waiting on trolleys for admission to University Hospital Galway, that’s the second highest number nationally. There are 34 patients waiting…

A Roscommon TD has once again raised her concern over the lack of additional supports for communities that have welcomed refugees. Sinn Fein Deputy Claire Kerrane says many rural communities lack the adequate services to cater for the amount of people in the…

A Westport based councillor is calling on fellow councillors and local election candidates not to use election posters during the local elections next year. In the local elections in 2019, Councillor Brendan Mulroy decided against using election posters, as…

A group of mothers who have experienced baby loss/ miscarriages decided to create a special place in Swinford to reflect on the loss of their children. The group of volunteers managed to get together during the pandemic, and working with the local community…

Workers aged 15-19 are being exploited when it comes to pay. That's according to Labour Youth, which says younger workers are being paid up to 70 per cent of the minimum wage while doing exactly the same job as those on full pay. Its calling for sub-minimum…

The Environment Minister is defending the new Deposit Return Scheme for recycling cans and plastics.From next February, a 15 cent levy will be added to every can or plastic bottle sold here.Customers will have to return their empties in a vending machine to…

Irish savers are collectively missing out on up to 3.5 billion euro a year in interest, according to data from the Central Bank of Ireland. Figures from the European Central Banks show the average interest rate on a savings account with a fixed maturity in…

46,000 farmers in ACRES have been dealt a pre-Christmas blow to their scheme payments. PaymentysThat’s according to today’s Irish Farmers Journal. It follows confirmation that over €100m in payments to 18,600 farmers in the Agri-Climate Rural Environment…

A double-header of Christmas concerts will take place in Foxford this weekend. On Saturday, in the Church of Ireland, BellaCapella Choir together with the Westport Town Hall Choir will perform by candlelight, to raise funds towards restoration work at the…

Uisce Éireann says old pipework in two residential areas of Castlebar is to be replaced to reduce high levels of leakage. Crews will begin the project in Fortfield before making their way to Harmony Heights with almost 500 metres of new pipes to be laid. The…

Irish Rail is to implement a new timetable this weekend which will see the quickest ever train service between Cork and Dublin. The 06:15am service from Cork City to Heuston will take 2 hours and 14 minutes, which is 5 minutes faster than normal. It's part of…

The average cost of delivering a new three-bedroom semi-detached home in Ireland is €397,000, a new report reveals. These costs not only include the building of the house, but also things like site works, levies and land and acquisition costs. Data from the…

Tomorrow, December 8th, has been an important day in people’s calendars for generations. Straide Talking is a new tradition in Straide that takes place tomorrow (Fri) afternoon. All are invited to the Straide Davitt Community Hall from 2.30pm to 5pm for a…

Farmers have been left waiting for grant approval for extra buildings for months now and it’s simply not acceptable. That’s the view of Independent Westport councillor Johno O’Malley. The councillor says for the most part, farmers are seeking the grant…

The State's budgetary watchdog has given scathing assessment of Budget 2024, and says the government is in danger of repeating the mistakes of the past. The Irish Fiscal Advisory Council says the coalition used 'gimmickry' to downplay the effects its 12…

Residents in the areas of Pullathomas, Knocknalower and Cornhill in the Erris region have had water restored following outages since last Sunday night. A number of people have contacted Midwest Radio today expressing their frustration in getting the problem…

CADBURY SECRET SANTA ALLOWS YOU TO SEND A CHOCOLATE BAR SECRETLY TO A LOVED ONE THIS CHRISTMAS This Christmas,22,000 people across Ireland can spread generosity and send Cadbury chocolate in secret to someone special FOR FREE. The campaign launches with a…

X - formerly known as Twitter - has declined an invitation to appear before the Oireachtas Media Committee. The company cited ongoing legal proceedings for not attending, however representatives from Tiktok, Meta and Google are currently appearing. The Dublin…

Two three-year-olds and an eight-year-old are among the 172 people who have been killed on the roads since the start of the year. Figures from PARC road safety group show 72 people under the age of 30 lost their lives between the 1st of January and this day…

Cabinet has included the Western Rail Corridor in it’s submissions for projects to be funded under the TEN-T Network. The Ten-T Network is a Trans European network that is building a spine of transport projects across Europe. If the submission is successful…

Status yellow wind warning has been extended to counties Mayo, Galway and Sligo and will come into effect from 2 o'clock this afternoon. Met Eireann say it will be very windy for a time today with southeast winds gusting up to 100km/h in some areas. This may…

Residents in the Pullathomas, Knocknalower and Cornhill area of Erris are without water since last Sunday night. A number of people have contacted Midwest Radio today expressing their frustration in getting the problem resolved. Erris based Fine Gael…

Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Senator Pippa Hackett, has today announced that a 60% grant rate will apply to investments funded by the Organic Processing Investment Grant Scheme (OPIG) in the new year. The scheme has a budget of €1.5…

Friends and family of missing persons will gather today to remember their loved ones on Missing Persons Day. An annual ceremony will take place in Croke Park to commemorate those who went out and never came home. Trevor Deely's family say they have not given…

34 schools in Mayo have been included in the Hot School Meals Programme next year. The schools have been included as part of a list of 900 primary schools across every county that will receive Hot School Meals from April, 2024. Mayo Senator Lisa Chambers says…

Water supply is due to be restored to all Achill householders and businesses later today. That’s according to local councillor Paul McNamara. The Fianna Fail councillor told Midwest News this morning that two major bursts occurred on the main supply over the…

Gardai­ could soon be wearing baseball caps. They're going to be trialed from this morning in three Garda stations in Galway, Cork and Dublin. 100 officers will wear a soft baseball cap and a 'bump stop cap' which offers better protection. They'll then give…

Clerical staff are staging a series of lunchtime protests at health centres around the country today and tomorrow. They are demanding a halt to a HSE ban on recruitment. Demonstrations will take place at a number of HSE facilities across the country from…

Ireland has a chronic shortage of inpatient hospital beds. A new study by the ESRI suggests 1 thousand beds are needed immediately to deal with the number of patients already seeking care. While 300 more beds will be needed every year to address population…

Credit Unions around the country are seeing their memberships grow by 1 thousand people per week. The Irish League of Credit Union's annual report for 2023. For the year to September, loans were up 555 million euro while the overall arrears ratios is down to…

Motorists can't take any more financial hits according to a Sligo based Sinn Fein TD. It comes as Transport Infrastructure Ireland have announced toll increases on ten routes around the country from January 1st. It's the second increase in the last year with…

Friends and family of missing persons will gather today to remember their loved ones on Missing Persons Day. An annual ceremony will take place in Croke Park to commemorate those who went out and never came home. Trevor Deely's family say they have not given…

The Government has won a Dail confidence vote in the Minister for Justice Helen McEntee.The vote followed significant political pressure following the recent Dublin riots.A no-confidence motion was originally tabled by Sinn Fein, however the Government tabled…

Fórsa trade union’s clerical and administrative members in the HSE will take part in a series of lunchtime protests, at various HSE sites nationwide, tomorrow and Thursday as part of the union’s ongoing campaign of industrial action, in response to the HSE’s…

Toll charges on some Irish roads are to increase in the new year, the second price hike in less than twelve months. For M50 and private partnership toll roads, most are increasing by 20 cent per journey. For heavy goods vehicles, tolls will be up by 30 to 50…

The Government has agreed to 6 million euro in funding for local radio and newspapers. Money will be targeted to two schemes that would support local democracy reporting and court reporting. Subject to EU approval, the Government hopes to see the schemes up…

Iarnród Éireann has announced it has awarded a contract for the major redevelopment of Ceannt Station in Galway – with works to get underway in January. It says the project will ensure Ceannt Station becomes a vital expanded and integrated transport hub in…

Gardai in Ballina are warning motorists of extremely icy road conditions this afternoon. The church road area from Ballina to Foxford is described as extremely dangerous this afternoon. Roads remain icy in many parts following below freezing temperatures in…

Minister for Disability and Fianna Fáil TD for Galway East, Anne Rabbitte, has welcomed the approval of 62 additional primary schools for the Hot School Meals Programme. The Department of Social Protection provides the funding to schools for the School Meals…

Referendums on constitutional references to family and care will be held on March 8th, 2024. The Cabinet signed off on the final wording this morning. These referendums were initially believed to have been held last month, but there were delays in the…

Charlestown library are to hold an open day tomorrow to mark the reopening of the facility. The celebrations will kick off at 10 a.m., with the official re-opening formalities and photos at 1 p.m. There will be story time sessions, with local classes invited…

A Mayo TD and former inter county footballer has once again critised the GAA's decision to place many big inter county games behind a paywall. GAAGO yesterday announced their schedule for the 2024 championship season, with 38 games set to be streamed on the…

Patients presenting at the Emergency Departments of hospitals across the region are experiencing significant delays today. There are 41 patients on trolleys waiting for beds at University Hospital Galway, the third highest figure nationally. 36 patients are…

People with intellectual disabilities are being encouraged to sign up for a Just A Minute Card.The card is celebrating it's 4th birthday this week and serves as an indicator that the user may need help when using public transport.It was first introduced in…

A double child benefit is due to be paid out today.650 thousand families are set to receive the payment which is part of the cost of living package announced in Budget 2024.It means that parents will get 280 euro per child.Stephen Moffatt, Bernardos National…

An event will take place this weekend in Ballintubber, Co Roscommon to celebrate the work of ALONE. The charity, that enables people to age at home, is a national organisation that aims to improve the physical, emotional and mental wellbeing of older people.…

The government is expected to comfortably defeat a no confidence motion in the Minister for Justice. The Sinn Fein motion will be debated and voted on in the Dail this evening. The party says the rioting seen in Dublin on November 23rd could have been…

Gardai across the region this morning are advising motorists to use the roads with caution as many remain quite slippy, particularly secondary routes. Motorists are advised to only use the roads as necessary. It comes as a Status Yellow 'low temperature'…

Businesses are set to get a boost next year under new plans heading to Cabinet this morning. Companies can receive up to 5 thousand euro back on their rates under the measures to be announced by Simon Coveney. The Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment…

Ireland West Airport have completed the installation of a new next-generation cabin baggage screening system which is now fully operational at the airport. Over the past two weeks, two of these cutting-edge screening systems were installed which is set to…

Today marks the 23rd anniversary since the disappearance of Sandra Collins. Gardaí in Ballina who are investigating the disappearance and murder of Sandra Collins are renewing their appeal to the public for information. Sandra Collins was last sighted on the…

Galway City Council is delighted to announce that the annual Christmas Park and Ride Service will run from Galway Racecourse to the City Centre from Friday, 8 December until Sunday, 24 December. Buses will run every 15 minutes in both directions Monday to…

Introducing two year minimum sentencing for those who assault frontline workers would cut out a lot of attacks. That’s the view of Westport Councillor Christy Hyland. Following on from last Friday’s Joint Policing Committee meeting, Councillor Hyland said…

The Ray Leonard Players from Claremorris are celebrating an historic national title this morning. They were named the overall winners in the Confined section of the All Ireland One-Act Drama Finals last night. Leading performers Robert Holden and Vera…

An incident occurred at the weekend in Castlerea in which an animal got loose, and as a result a person was injured and hospitalised. The Roscommon Herald are reporting that the animal made its way onto the road in Castlerea town. Gardaí were assisted by a…

A status yellow weather warning has been issued for eight counties from this evening. The low temperature and ice warning will affect Connacht, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath. Met Éireann says it will be very cold, with frost and ice leading to potentially…

Local election Independent candidate in the Castlebar electoral area Harry Barrett has called for answers on the Peace Park in the county town. He claims that it’s been known for over two years that urgent remedial works are needed at the site, with…

An incident has occurred in Achill Sound this morning. A car has turned over on the road amid treacherous road conditions. An Garda Síochana are aware of the incident and say that work is underway to remove the vehicle. This is being described as a ‘minor…

Motorists are being warned to take caution on the Bangor to Eskeragh road this morning. With overnight temperatures going below zero, this has become a dangerous stretch. The road is being described as ‘lethal.’ Belmullet Garda Station are asking motorists to…

More than half of Dubliners say they're visiting the city centre less, or not at all amid concern over their safety. It's among the findings in a new poll which also found that more than 80 per cent of people would be unwilling to visit. Of the one thousand…

The Ray Leonard Players from Claremorris are celebrating an historic national title this morning. They were named the overall winners in the Confined section of the All Ireland One-Act Drama Finals last night. Leading performers Robert Holden and Vera…

A man has been arrested following an incident at Sligo Train Station. Gardaí attended the scene yesterday evening, Sunday December 3. The man, aged in his 30s, is being detained for public order offences. As a result, users of the Sligo/ Connolly train…

The current cold snap is set to continue until tomorrow, according to reports in this morning’s Irish Times. There were Status Yellow low temperature, ice and fog warnings issued for the whole country over the weekend. Drivers have been urged to allocate…

Focus Ireland has launched an urgent Christmas appeal seeking support from the public to help with homelessness. Almost 4,000 children are now on the homeless list, an increase of 15% year-on-year. The charity is appealing for donations to help families and…

Medicine shortages in Ireland have increased over the last 12 months up from 178 to 332 on the previous year. That's the findings of the Medicine Shortages Index, introduced a year ago, which reveals a surge in the shortage of antibiotics and over the…

188 food-led hospitality businesses have closed across the country between July and November of this year. 48 of those closures happened in November alone. The Restaurants Association of Ireland says the closures show the hospitality industry is struggling…

The funeral of The Pogue's frontman Shane MacGowan will take place this Friday. He passed away on Thursday at the age of 65. His funeral is set to take place in Nenagh, County Tipperary, where he spent most of his childhood. The full arrangements have yet to…

We're being told to allow extra time for travelling tomorrow. It comes as another blanket of frost is set to arrive this evening. Meanwhile, a status yellow low temperature/ice warning that was due to be in place has been lifted. Alan O'Reilly from Carlow…

A special meeting of the West Mayo Municipal District is to take place later this month to discuss the up to date situation on the Pairc na Coille Housing Estate in Westport, an affordable housing development, in which 34 houses have been designated as having…

Housing in Ballyhaunis is at crisis point. That’s according to local Fine Gael election candidate Alma Gallagher. She has stated that Ballyhaunis is one of the fastest growing towns in the western region and, according to the latest census, the population…

The Justice Minister Helen McEntee has received more public backing since the Dublin riots. That's the finding of a new Sunday Independent / Ireland Thinks Poll published today. Over half of people think the Justice Minister should not resign from her…

Travelling conditions are expected to be dangerous this morning due to freezing fog and ice. A yellow Fog warning is in place for the whole country until midday today, causing poor visibility. While a status yellow Low Temperature/Ice warning for Ireland has…

The Government has been accused of ignoring people with disabilities, following the recent budget last October, by not prioritising the welfare of people who need specialist care and attention. That's according to a Labour Party TD as today marks the…

A Sligo based Independent Councillor says electricity companies need to reduce the cost of charging electric vehicles to incentivise people to make the switch. Councillor Marie Casserly says it costs between 50 and 60 cent per kilowatt hour to use public…

A road traffic incident has occurred this afternoon in Claremorris. The location of the crash is under the bridge just off the N17 on the way into the town, close to the McWilliam Park Hotel. An Garda Siochana are aware of the incident and say that this is a…

Excitement has been building all week in Lahardane ahead of today's Connacht Junior Football Final. Our Sports Editor Michael D. McAndrew spoke to some of the people of Lahardane ahead of the big game. Here he speaks to Seamus Maughan who has three sons on…

The third volume of the History & Memories of Kilmactigue Parish book will be launched today. An array of stories and folklore has been compiled by Danny Jones and Marie Fleming. This bumper edition is the final instalment of a series of books which have…

Westport is among the areas this morning feeling the effects of last night’s temperature drop. Local Councillor Peter Flynn has issued a statement on his social media with regards to underfoot and driving conditions. Cllr Flynn says ‘footpaths and roads are…

A nationwide status yellow warning for low temperatures has been issued here by Met Eireann. Alan O'Reilly of Carlow Weather says we can expect icy conditions both day and night for the weekend. But he's not promising a white Christmas.

The Belmullet electoral area Fine Gael selection convention took place in the Broadhaven Bay Hotel last night. There were two positions available with sitting Cllr Gerry Coyle and Pat Chambers now going forward to represent the area for the next local…

108 customers are currently being affected by a power outage in the Roosky area of County Roscommon. The fault was reported at 11:28am this morning and the ESB are estimating that power will be restored at 6:00pm. ESB Networks apologise for the loss of supply…

Sinn Fein is to table a no-confidence motion in Justice Minister Helen McEntee next week. Mary Lou McDonald says the country can't have a Justice Minister who "refuses to acknowledge the political failures that allowed our communities to become unsafe."…

A Status Yellow fog warning will come into effect for the whole country from 5:00pm this evening. Met Éireann have listed poor visibility and hazardous travelling conditions as some of the possible impacts. The warning will be valid until 12 noon on Sunday…

The HSE is urging every eligible person to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 urgently amid concern over an expected imminent rise in winter viruses. This is particularly important for people with long term health conditions and healthcare workers…

The Westport electoral area Fianna Fail selection convention took place in Westport last night. Two candidates went to contest the convention with sitting Cllr Brendan Mulroy coming out on top against Tommy Duggan by 41 votes to 7. Cllr Mulroy now goes on to…

There is great excitement and pride today in Castlebar, as Castlebar Mitchels GAA Club has secured Gold for its promotion of the Irish Language. The national award will be presented to the Irish and Cultural Officer with the club Padraig McKeon and his team…

€447,485 in CLÁR Funding has been confirmed for eleven projects in Mayo. The successful projects receiving funding are as follows: Ballyheane Football Club Project: Provision of mobile 200 seater steel stand with canopy and integrated picnic area. Cost:…

Aontú have selected their local election candidate for Westport. John Loftus has been selected as the Aontú candidate for Westport.

A 22-year-old law graduate is set to be nominated as the Fine Gael candidate for the Swinford Local Electoral area for the forthcoming 2024 Council elections. Antoinette Peyton will go before the party convention in Swinford on Sunday 10th December having…

A woman remains in hospital this morning after being struck by a vehicle in East Mayo yesterday evening. Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a road traffic collision involving a pedestrian and a car, which occurred on Bridge Street,…

As part of Mayo County Council’s Budget 2024 plans, a number of small allocations have been provided to various organizations and events across the county. Siamsa Stráide in Swinford, who celebrate their 40th year in 2024, the Joyce County Geopark and…

An investigation has been launched into the discovery of a body in Drumshanbo yesterday. The coroner has been notified and a post-mortem will take place later today. Gardai say that the outcome of which will determine the course of the investigation.

A Mayo-based business has been awarded €10,000 through the Enterprise Ireland Three Grants for Small Businesses competition. Eco Powered Cabinets was one of ten companies to be chosen to share the €100,000 prize fund. Founder Darren Forde from Hollymount set…

Farmers say they'll have to cull pregnant cows if they're to meet reduced stock numbers under the nitrates derogation. They'll be protesting outside the constituency offices of Minister's Michael McGrath and Simon Coveney in Cork today. Farmers say all…

A nationwide status yellow low temperature and ice warning will stay in place until midday. Temperatures overnight in many areas dropped as low as minus three but could be even lower this morning. Met Eireann says frost and ice has led to hazardous driving…

Gardai are warning they will be out in force over the next few weeks as the Christmas period gets into full swing. They have launched their annual Christmas and New Year Road Safety Campaign this morning. Gardai are warning motorists not to drink-drug drive…

Gardaí are currently at the scene of a Road Traffic Collision that occurred on Bridge Street, Ballyhaunis this evening at approximately 6.30pm The collision involved a vehicle and a female pedestrian, aged in her 80s who has since been removed from the scene…

A Cyber attack has occurred on the eurotronics of the group water scheme in the Drum / Binghamstown area of Erris. This extraordinary occurrence will mean people on the Drum/Binghamstown Group Water Scheme will be without water for tonight and in to tomorrow.…

The Road Safety Authority says half of the fatalities so far this year have been under the age of 35. 172 people have been killed on the roads so far this year, which is 31 more than last year. The RSA today launched its annual Christmas safety appeal and is…

A status yellow low temperature and ice warning has been updated to cover the entire country. Met Eireann is warning it could go as low as minus four in places tonight, with the alert in place from five o'clock this evening. The weather warning remains in…

Almost 200 restaurants, cafes, coffee shops and gastropubs have closed in the past five months. 48 businesses shut their doors for good in this month alone. The Restaurants Association of Ireland has blamed increased costs and reduced consumer demand. Its CEO…

The countdown is on to Saturday’s Connacht Junior Football Final in Hastings Insurance MacHale Park in Castlebar. Lahardane MacHales are taking on Owenmore Gaels of Sligo at 1:30pm and Midwest Radio will have full live commentary of the game with thanks to…

Funding has been approved for the Michael Davitt Museum in Straide as a result of Mayo County Council’s 2024 Budget plans. Councillor Ger Deere has welcomed the allocation saying that this is a very important investment, paying tribute to ‘one of Ireland’s…

Achill Island Sea Salt, a family-owned business founded in 2013, has been recognised as a culinary treasure with a prestigious protected status. The product has gained Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) recognition, with publication in the Official Journal…

Close to 11 and a half thousand patients, including 434 children, went without a bed in Irish hospitals this month, according to the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation’s TrolleyWatch. Sligo and Galway University hospitals were among the most overcrowded…

Shane MacGowan has died at the age of 65. He was best known for being the frontman of 'The Pogues.' Shane's wife Victoria Mary Clarke says "there's no way to describe the loss I am feeling and the longing for just one more of his smiles that lit up my world."…

World leaders will gather in an oil State today for the UN's climate change conference - COP 28. The Taoiseach is among the Irish delegation making the trip to Dubai for the global conference - which will last for just under 2 weeks. There has been criticism…

Anyone keeping horses, ponies and donkeys will have to take part in an equine census tonight. Mules and even zebras are also included in the official survey. Census forms have already been sent out to over 29,000 registered premises across the country.

All IFA branch AGMs have been completed, as the number of postal votes has exceeded 15,000 in the IFA Presidential elections. 940 branches met over the last three weeks to allow members vote for the next President and Deputy President of IFA. For the first…

New renters are paying 18 per cent more each month than existing tenants. New data from the ESRI and the residential tenancies board shows rents increased by their highest annual rate between April and July of this year. The average rent for a new tenant in…

 85 per cent of electric car drivers in Ireland have found that running costs are cheaper than their previous traditional petrol or diesel cars, while 62 per cent plan to buy another EV as their next car. DoneDeal's latest survey found that for car buyers…

Road users are being urged to take due caution as temperatures fell to freezing in places overnight, and a Status Yellow warning for ice and cold comes into effect this evening The warning has been issued for 18 counties, including all the counties of…

Two Mayo firms have been selected as finalists in the SFA National Small Business Awards. Engineering company OSENG in Claremorris has been shortlisted in the services category, and JJ Burke Car Sales Ballinrobe, in the retail category. The aim of the awards,…

There is an immediate need for adequate public lighting and road re-surfacing in the car park of the Glasgow Kennedy House at the Quay in Ballina. A number of local businesses are located in the facility and it’s not acceptable for business tenants or their…

The Christmas lights will be turned on in Westport tomorrow evening. The ceremony will take place at 5:00pm. Service users at Western Care will be on hand to turn on the lights again this year. Westport choir will provide a carol service on the evening also.…

A Status Yellow low temperature and ice warning has been issued for much of the country. It'll come into effect at 6 o'clock tomorrow evening and continue until midday on Friday. It's set to affect all counties bar Dublin, Wexford and Waterford. Met Eireann…

There's a warning that vital news services on independent radio are under threat. The Independent Broadcasters of Ireland has briefed TDs and senators on the challenges facing the sector. The organisation wants the debate on the future of media moved away…

Members of our Islands are set to meet with Housing Minister Dara O'Brien next month over the newly published report on the housing needs of Ireland's offshore islands. That's according to Galway Deputy Eamon O Cuiv who has organised for the delegation to…

Excitement is palpable across Lahardane and Bofeenaun as Lahardane MacHales look to win their second Connacht Junior football title this weekend. The Nephin men take on Owenmore gales of Sligo in Saturday’s Connacht junior final at 1:30pm and we will have…

Casey's Londis Castlebar on the New Westport Road was presented with the Gold award in the Best Large Convenience Store category at the prestigious ShelfLife National C-Store Awards 2023. The business is owned and operated by Gerry Casey. The C-Store Awards…

There are currently 1,523 people waiting for driving tests in Tuam. These figures have been released to the Aontú political party by the RSA, following a Parliamentary Question. 222 people have been deemed 'not eligible' (This may be because the tester has…

Two weeks from today, (December 14th), the Angler’s Rest in Headford will host the launch of a new town portal capturing all the news and information of the Headford area. Early this year, having completed training on Smart Villages, a Headford committee…

Fianna Fàil has selected two candidates to contest the 2024 local elections for the Claremorris local electoral area. At a well attended convention in Ballyhaunis local businessman Stephen Nolan and sitting councillor Damien Ryan were selected to contest the…

IFA President Tim Cullinan has welcomed the announcement of the new Agri-Regulator Board and the start date, next month, of the Agri-Food Regulator. Wed, December 13th will be a significant day in working towards the rebalancing of the food supply chain,” he…

Trying to get a deadline date for works to be carried out by Irish Water is like trying to get ‘blood out of a turnip.’ That’s according to Erris based Sinn Féin TD Rose Conway Walsh. Her comments come in the wake of a two week disruption to water supply to…

New legislation allowing Gardai to wear body camera technology is expected to pass through the Oireachtas today. The Garda Siochana Recording Devices Bill 2022 is set to be voted on in the Dail after first being proposed by the Commission for the Future of…

There are growing concerns accommodation for asylum seekers may run out within days. It's understood Gardai­ are being resourced to provide protection for refugees who may be forced to sleep on the streets. Tanaiste Micheal Martin has expressed concern about…

A status yellow fog warning will remain in place for 14 counties until eleven o'clock this morning. The counties under the alert are Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Laois, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wicklow, Cavan, Monaghan, Leitrim, Roscommon. Met…

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Asthma Society in Ireland. It's marking the occasion with a spotlight on the services it has provided over the past five decades, and the improvements in treatments. It says its goal is to make Ireland safer for…

Ireland has seen a significant increase in immigration - up 31 percent on last year. An ESRI review of migration and asylum shows the end of Covid travel restrictions were a factor, as well as the Russian invasion of Ukraine. 141,600 people arrived here in…

Factory agents are scrambling for cattle supplies this week as Christmas orders ramp up. The supply-demand shift has meant factories have had to increase quotes by 10c/kg to 20c/kg in the last number of weeks to secure cattle. Despite the increase in quotes,…

A Teagasc report just published indicates a 44 percent drop in farm incomes The Irish Farmers' Association says the drop is of huge concern, particularly given the ongoing cost of living crisis. IFA President Tim Cullinan says "if we don't have farmers, we…

Competition is intensifying for the Fianna Fail nominations to contest the new 5 seat constituency of the Midlands-North West Deputy Barry Cowen has announced that he is to throw his hat in the ring to run for the party for the European Parliament. Mayo…

Temperatures could again drop as low as minus two in some areas tonight. The first cold spell of the winter is also likely to bring frost and ice. Met Eireann is forecasting widespread mist and fog overnight.

Leitrim is the best county in the country in which to start a business. Procure.ie looked at the average office cost, average office size, average salary, number of jobs available per capita, and the number of houses available to rent per capita. Leitrim has…

Mayo Day 2024 will take place in Belmullet. This has been confirmed to Midwest Radio News by Ballinrobe based Councillor Damien Ryan. The news was announced at yesterday’s council meeting during which the 2024 Budget for Mayo County Council was finalised.…

Mayo County Council have increased their housing allocation for 2024 by €1.5 million. That’s according to Fianna Fáil Councillor Damien Ryan. Last year’s allocation of €3 million was increased to €4.1 million in the provisional draft ahead of yesterday’s…

Small rates payers in County Mayo won’t pay a cent extra in rates for 2024. That’s according to Councillor Peter Flynn, following on from yesterday’s Mayo County Council Budget 2024 plan reveal. The total expenditure agreed by the council for 2024 stands at…

Barry Cowen is to run for the European Parliament. He's issued a statement confirming he will be putting his name forward for selection as a candidate. He says now is the right time for him to try to deliver for his Midlands-North-West constituency at a…

The funeral of well known businessman Ben Dunne is taking place this morning in West Dublin. Large numbers of mourners are expected to attend at St Mochta's Church in Porterstown, Clonsilla, and extra seating is being provided in the Parish Centre nearby. The…

Senior Ministers are set to discuss the amount of force Gardai are allowed to use for public order incidents. The Justice Minister is to announce a review following last week's riots in Dublin. The Justice Minister has been under pressure following last…

Achill Island Sea Salt is to be given a protected designation of origin certification from the European Commission. This comes in conjunction with the announcement that all grass-fed beef produced in Ireland and Northern Ireland will receive a protected…

The North Mayo Heritage Centre has expressed their devastation in being the victims of vandalism over the weekend. Writing on their Facebook page, the centre has detailed that damage was done to their Christmas event signage. The post says: "Our snowman was…

Mayo County Council held its annual budget meeting today ahead of 2024. An expenditure figure of over €200 million was agreed by the council this afternoon. Among the high priority issues on the agenda for today’s meeting was that of rates for small business…

Temperatures are set to drop as low as minus two tonight as a cold spell hits the country. There's also the possibility of icy patches as well as mist and fog. Met Eireann is forecasting some wintry showers for later in the week. Mayo County Council have also…

The ESB have apologised to those affected by the power outage that occurred around midnight on Saturday night last. At the height of the power outage, around 21,000 customers were in darkness across Belmullet, Ballina, Enniscrone and the surrounding areas.…

Gardai and emergency services attended the scene of a vehicle in fire in Tubbercurry at the weekend. The incident occurred on Wolfe Tone Square in the town in the early hours of Sunday morning, November 26 2023. An Garda Síochana are currently treating this…

Three more cost of living supports announced in the Budget are being paid today. People who live alone, carers, and those in receipt of the qualified child payment can expect to receive extra supports. Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys outlines the…

There is extensive anger across the county today following the major disruption to electricity supply to 10,000 households in the county over the weekend. A major breakdown at an ESB substation overnight Saturday night was the cause of the outage that…

Madness will play at Galway Airport as part of the Galway Summer Sessions next year. The gig on August 10th is the final show of the group's C'est La Vie tour. Tickets go on sale from nine o'clock this Friday morning. (Photo credit to Madness Facebook page)

The Minister of State with Responsibility for Disabilities Anne Rabbitte has officially opened two new locations for people supported by Western Care Association in Co Mayo. The Minister visited the organisation’s newest designated residential centre and also…

Props from some of the country's most famous films are going up for auction, including a clock from The Banishees of Inisherin, the international acclaimed film set extensively on Achill Island. Prop rifles from the 1996 hit 'Michael Collins' are among the…

Gardaí seized €56,000 of suspected cocaine and arrested one man during the course of a search in Galway city yesterday evening( Sunday). The search, which was undertaken as part of Operation Tara by the Galway Divisional Drug Unit, occurred at a residence in…

Paid leave for employees impacted by domestic violence comes into effect today. Victims are entitled to take five days of paid leave every year, without having to provide evidence. It makes Ireland one of the first countries in Europe to introduce the…

Shoppers are being warned about potential fraud that may take place today, Cyber Monday. Gardai say fraudsters will increase their activity today to try and take advantage of one of the biggest retail shopping days of the year. There may be an increase in…

Thousands of householders and businesses in north Mayo were without electricity all day yesterday and into last night, following a major breakdown at an ESB substation overnight Saturday night. The service was restored to the majority of customers just after…

Former President of Ireland, Ballina native, Mary Robinson is calling on world leaders to take decisive action to end the use of fossil fuels during the UN climate summit beginning this week. According to today’s Irish Independent, the now climate change and…

We could be without some of our Christmas dinner favourites this year due to difficult harvests. Farmers say their crops of potatoes, broccoli, parsnips, and cauliflower have been badly affected by heavy rainfall. But levels of brussels sprouts are expected…

Three different new social housing developments in county Mayo are at a standstill at present because of difficulties being experienced by two different approved housing bodies. That's according to Castlebar councillor Donna Sheridan. The Fine Gael councillor…

Gardaí are investigating a criminal damage incident that occurred in Wolfe Tone Square, Tubbercurry, Co.Sligo during the early hours of this morning, Sunday, 26th November 2023.

Thousands of householders and businesses in north Mayo remain in the dark this evening without an electricity supply, following a major breakdown at an ESB substation overnight. A spokesperson for the ESB told Midwest News that a major issue occurred at the…

7,500 householders and businesses in county Mayo remained without power this afternoon after a major breakdown in the ESB power supply overnight. The Erris area of North Mayo is the worst area affected. A spokesperson for the ESB told Midwest News that a…

The Pope got an aide to read his Sunday message today - revealing that he has a chest infection. Poe Francis sat down in the chapel of his residence, instead of his usual place at a window overlooking St. Peter's Square. The Pontiff, who coughed and had a…

The Irish ambassador's been summoned to Israel for 'reprimand' over comments made by the Taoiseach following Emily Hand's release. Leo Varadkar said 'an innocent child who was lost, has been found and returned'. Israel's Foreign Minister Eli Cohen responded,…

A Ballina councillor addressed the Seanad in recent days over the future of local democracy. Independent councillor Mark Duffy referred to his home town of Ballina and the decrease in local representation in the area and its impact on local democracy. He…

Sinn Fein has seen a drop in support in an opinion poll out today. The Business Post / Red C poll shows a three-point drop in support for the party, from 32 percent last month to 29 this month, and further down from a record high of 36 per cent mid last…

Thousands of householders and businesses in county Mayo remain without power today after a major breakdown in the ESB power supply overnight. The Erris area of North Mayo is the worst area affected. 10,000 customers were without a supply from midnight last…

Wicklow's Katie Taylor is now the undisputed super lightweight champion of the world. She beat England's Chantelle Cameron on points in last night's rematch at Dublin's 3 Arena adding the WBA, WBC, WBO and IBF super lightweight belts to her collection - and…

Nine-year-old Irish-Israeli girl Emily Hand has been reunited with her dad, Thomas. The second hostage exchange between Israel and Hamas went ahead late last night after an agonising delay for the families of those now freed. Israel allowed 39 Palestinians to…

Civil liberties groups are reacting with concern to reports the Government's considering fast-tracking facial recognition laws following last Thursday's riots in Dublin. It's understood Minister Helen McEntee believes Gardaí need to be given more robust…

The Justice Minister has announced €4.4 million of additional Garda supports, following the riots in Dublin on Thursday. The funding will provide for 95 extra Garda vehicles including; 17 high visibility public order vans, 38 new fully electric patrol cars…

Over 200 soldiers have arrived back in Ireland from Lebanon. The battalion had been deployed in a region caught in multiple exchanges of gunfire in recent weeks. Emotional scenes here in Dublin Airport as troops from the 122nd Infantry Battalion have landed…

Burrishoole Community Partnership will host the grand opening of their Community Centre and playing pitch on Sunday December 10. This takes place at the new facility on the Glenhest Road in Newport. The Community organisation says that they are excited to…

There's a heavy Garda presence in Dublin City today as the clean-up continues following Thursday's riots. Government Ministers last night held a briefing on the knife attack outside a school in Parnell Square that led to the unrest - and the violence that…

Female students studying agricultural science expect to earn lower salaries than their male counterparts despite studying the same course. That’s according to information obtained by the Irish Farmers Journal. The survey of over 200 students took place this…

Five stylists from the MSLETB in Ballina won awards at the recent Revlon Crossan Hair & Beauty BeFabulous Awards in the Radisson Blu Hotel in Sligo. The stylists included: Laura Quinn: Avant Garde College Janos Varga: Barber Cut Junior Janos Varga: Overall…

People can help Ministers develop legislation around packaging and flavouring of vapes and tobacco. Junior Minister for Public Health Hildegarde Naughton says a public consultation is starting today on further regulation. A new Bill contains wide-ranging…

Parents are being urged not to buy children e-scooters, scramblers or quad bikes this Christmas. The Road Safety Authority says they pose a serious safety risk to younger people. Three e-scooter riders were killed and 48 seriously injured on Irish roads…

Two local students are in the running for Ireland’s Best Dressed Debutante 2023. 10 students are in the finals of the competition from around the country, which is run by Debs Ireland. Ciaran Gorman of St Attracta’s Community School in Tubbercurry has made…

Details of free parking in Castlebar for the Christmas period have been confirmed. From December 6 – 29, there will be free parking from 8:30am to 12:30pm in certain car parks. The four Mayo County Council car parks that will offer the service are located at:…

Changes are needed to the vacant homes tax so families in rural Ireland don’t suffer. That’s according to local Independent councillor Patsy O’Brien, who says currently any property left vacant is applicable to a 3% tax on it. He says for many families in…

Gardaí are appealing for information in relation to the theft of a vehicle on Williamstown Road, Castlerea, County Roscommon that occurred on Tuesday 21st November 2023 at approximately 5:30pm. A woman in her 70s was injured during the course of this incident…

Yesterday's attack on young children in Dublin was the most barbaric act that can be carried out. That's the view of Mayo based Aontu member Paul Lawless who says people don't feel safe anymore and has referenced the news that a Dublin based crime gang…

Schools in 11 counties are now eligible to apply for funding for solar panels under the first phase of the school solar panel scheme. Counties Galway and Leitrim are included in this phase. It comes more than a year after the national plan was first…

Gardai­ say 32 of the 34 people arrested in connection with last night's rioting will appear before the courts today. In all 7 vehicles were damaged by fire including 3 buses, 3 Garda patrol cars and a Luas tram. 8 other Garda vehicles were extensively…

34 people have been arrested in connection with the violence in Dublin city last night. The Garda Commissioner says thousands of hours of video and CCTV footage will be analysed in order to identify people involved. The scenes followed a stabbing incident in…

The launch of Creative Places Ballaghaderreen will take place at the Square One Café, Durkin’s tomorrow (Sat) from 3pm to 6 pm. Poetry recitation, a film screening and music, with light refreshments, will be provided. Creative Places Ballaghaderreen is a…

Airline bosses are to discuss the challenges of developing green aviation fuel in the coming years.Midlands North West MEP Colm Markey is warning air travel is to shoot up in price, unless more sustainable aviation fuel is made.Airline executives including…

Christmas will officially begin in many households across the country tonight.Host Patrick Kielty will join 170 kids from across the country for the Late Late Toy Show. It airs at 9.35 on RTE One and RTE Player.Elf the movie is the theme this year - and the…

School secretaries say they're "not done yet" when it comes to fighting for fair working conditions. A trade union deal by Forsá means around 3000 school secretaries will join the Department of Education's payroll today and get backdated pay of up to 15…

Shoppers are advised to be very careful when they see an ad or link advertised on social media today.Gardai­ are advising people to stop, think and check before they commit to buying this Black Friday.Garda Detective Superintendent Michael Cryan of the Garda…

Calm has been restored to Dublin city centre after rioting on the streets last night. Gardai­ have branded the violence as 'gratuitous thuggery' after public transport was attacked , Garda vehicles damaged and some businesses looted. The violent scenes…

A number of people, including children, have been injured in an incident in Dublin's north inner city. Officers are at the scene and are being assisted by other emergency services. It's believed a number of people - including children were injured in a…

School secretaries say they're "not done yet" when it comes to fighting for fair working conditions. A trade union deal by Forsá means around 3000 school secretaries will join the Department of Education's payroll today and get backdated pay of up to 15…

The Taoiseach says there are dark clouds on the horizon for the economy, but says Ireland is ready for it. Economic growth is expected to contract by 0.9 per cent this year, while Ireland could technically enter recession this year or next. Leo Varadkar…

The OPW has submitted its final report to Minister Paschal Donohue in relation to the Crossmolina Flood relief scheme. That's according to Minister of State Dara Calleary. The report was requested by Government last summer and will now need to be assessed…

Petrol and diesel prices have both fallen by three cent over the last month. It's the second month in a row that fuel prices have dropped. It now costs 1 euro 80 cent per litre of petrol, and 1 euro 81 cent per litre of diesel. For those who drive EVs, it…

There is fear out there among a number of family carers and people who are receiving a non contributory pension, as the Department of Social Protection is carrying out a review of their payments. That’s according to HSE West forum member, Castlebar…

The new 6 day additional evening train (7.35 pm) from Dublin to Mayo, available from the 10th of December, will not serve Ballina Station on Saturdays. The discovery is disappointing, according to Ballina Independent councillor Mark Duffy. The six day…

Due to a malfunction at the Crossmolina Water Treatment Plant, a Boil Water Notice has been issued with immediate effect on the Crossmolina Public Water Supply Scheme, until further notice. Water must be boiled for drinking, preparation of foods which are not…

The Department of Education is to back pay some 3 thousand school secretaries this morning under a deal with the Trade union FORSA. Depending on the length of service and school secretaries have now seen their pay increase by a minimum of 17per cent while…

Drivers over the age of 70 may have to undergo refresher courses under a proposal put forward by Europe. If the European Commission gets its way it would mean motorists over 70 would have to undergo regular medical tests and courses to renew their driving…

The Higher Education Minister says anyone who has paid their full college fees will be refunded one thousand euro. It was announced in budget 2024 that there would be a reduction of a 1,000 euro towards student contribution fees. It brings the cost down to a…

Members of one of Ireland's most prolific burglary gangs used an Airbnb rental as a base for a crime wave in which up to 20 homes were robbed in under five days. According to today’s Irish Independent, the Dublin-based gang rented the property near Knock, Co…

The urgent need for electric car charging points in both Killala and Ballycastle to be provided for both locals and tourists, along the Wild Atlantic Way, has been highlighted by local Fine Gael councillor Jarlath Munnelly. The councillor raised the matter at…

A Ballyhaunis based Auctioneering company has been shortlisted in the 2023 KPMG Irish Independent Property Industry Excellence Awards. APP Kirrane Auctioneering with offices in Ballyhaunis and Galway has been shortlisted in the Residential Agency Awards…

Now in its third year, Ballina Climate Action Weekend brings some unusual angles to climate action. Taking place this weekend (24 & 25 November), some of the highlights of the festival will capture the imaginations of locals, challenging attendees to think…

Patients presenting at the Emergency Departments of hospitals across the region are experiencing significant delays today. There are 45 patients on trolleys waiting for admission to Sligo University Hospital, the second highest number nationally today. It’s…

A Galway councillor has raised concerns over inadequate screening for those on the social housing list. Councillor Mike Cubbard says residents in an area Galway city have learned that a social housing tenant has convictions for sexual offences. He says…

Gardai in Castlerea are investigating a car theft where a woman was injured in a car park in Castlerea, yesterday evening. At approximately 5.35pm yesterday (Tues) evening a woman, aged in her 70s, was driving out of Lidl car park onto the Williamstown Road…

The Cabinet has granted approval for comprehensive reforms aimed at bolstering Ireland's welfare system. The changes brought forward by Minister Heather Humphreys include the introduction of a new pay related jobseeker’s benefit scheme and significant…

There are further positive indications that work on the N5 ByPass from Ballaghaderreen to Scramogue is set to commence in early 2024. That’s according to Boyle based Fine Gael Councillor Liam Callaghan. Funding of €450 million was approved for the project by…

Three people have been arrested in the Ballinasloe area after Gardaí seized drugs and equipment. On Monday evening, €16 thousand worth of cocaine and €9 thousand of cannabis were seized, along with mixing agents, an industrial press and moulds. Three males…

The head of the HSE has warned the health service will be even worse off financially next year. Bernard Gloster emailed the Health Minister just before the Budget saying this could pose a 'significant and punitive risk to the public.' The email was released…

We're going to be hit with five years of PRSI increases. It will see around 46 euro come out of the average workers pay packet every year. The Government has signed off on these increases which are to start next year and continue until 2028. PRSI will rise…

The sale of cigarettes may be restricted to those over the age of 21. A public consultation process to higher the age limit from 18 years is reportedly set to begin this week. According to the Irish Independent Health Minister Stephen Donnelly is supportive…

The Government has published the Planning and Development Bill 2023. Described as the cornerstone for Irish planning for the coming decades by the Minister for Housing, the 700 page Bill is a culmination of months of Oireachtas scrutiny and stakeholder…

Three Irish cities have been ranked among the best globally for students. Galway, Cork and Dublin came in 7th, 22nd and 38th place respectively in the 'Top 50 Student Cities in the World for 2023'. Galway also took first place in the world in the 'Student…

A pay boost of 12-point-7 per cent is on the way for plumbers, pipefitters and welders.The trade union Unite says the increase was agreed following a threat of strike action, after members rejected a Labour Court pay recommendation.Unite says the deal…

A road safety campaigner says people will continue to use loopholes to avoid penalty points until our laws are changed. A seldom-used loophole in the Road Traffic Act allows motorists to accept a one-day disqualification from a court which could allow them to…

Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphrey has today announced funding €100,000 for Cong and Killala. €50,000 will be given to outdoor recreation projects in both areas as part of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme. Funding has…

The water supply to residents of Clare Island has been restored following 10 days whereby residents of the North and West of the island were without water. This disruption came just six weeks after the lifting of Clare Island’s fifth Boil Water Notice in two…

An inquest was opened and adjourned yesterday (Monday) into the death of Christy Henry, a resident of Innisbiggle Island. Mr. Henry, who was aged 60, died after the car which he was driving veered into a lake on the island. The cause of his death was revealed…

The Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) have called on all public representatives to back farming and our rural communities by voting against the Nature Restoration Law (NRL) when it comes before the Irish and European Parliaments for final…

A coroner has demanded action on Ballygowan Bridge on the N60 near Claremorris, stating it is “clearly dangerous” from a road traffic point of view. Pat O’Connor, Coroner for the District of Mayo, made his comments at an inquest into the death of a…

The Government will consider a proposal to scrap censorship laws, dating from 1929. It's one of a number of issues being brought to Cabinet this morning. Current censorship laws mean some books, magazines or newspapers that are considered incident - are…

The murder trial of James Kilroy (50), who admits killing his wife Valerie (41) at their rural Westport home, has collapsed for a second time at the Central Criminal Court. This comes as a key defence witness is now unavailable to give evidence, whilst in the…

Gardaí are investigating a robbery from a premises on Adelaide Street, Sligo which occurred in the early hours of Monday, 20th November 2023. Shortly after 2am, two males wearing balaclavas entered the premises. A staff member was threatened at knife point…

Ballina based barber Ricky Pownall was among the awards once again last night, this time at the Crossan BeFab Hair and Beauty Awards. Held at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Sligo, Ricky won the Barber Cut Senior Award last night. Owner of Ricky’s Barbers in Market…

The Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien was in Mayo today for a number of official engagements. This afternoon he officially opened the new Fire Station in Crossmolina. The number of householders in Mayo seriously impacted by pyrite - defective blocks - in…

Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys has today announced €1 million funding to support Men’s Sheds. Grants of up to €3,000 will be provided to over 435 Men’s Sheds across the country as part of the initiative. 21 Men’s Sheds across…

Galway dentist Dr Mohammed Ali Al-Zein has been announced as the Colgate Caring Dentist of the Year for the Connacht/ Ulster region. Dr Al-Zein was recognised for selflessly treating patients who were unable to afford the extensive work required at his own…

A coroner today (Monday) returned a verdict of accidental homicide at an inquest into the death of a 25-year-old Co. Mayo woman who lay dying as her boyfriend fled the scene their crashed car. The hearing into the death of Tracey Moran, an optical assistant…

Minister Darragh O'Brien is due in Ballina around now to officially open a new 50 unit housing development in the town, Rehin's Fort. It's one of a number of official engagements being carried out by the Minister in the county today. He is also due to visit…

Tributes have been paid to the late John Dunford who passed away on Saturday. John, of Corbawn Close, Shankill and formerly Castlebar, was well known in music circles right across the country. He served as a sound engineer for many years with The Waterboys,…

The Great National Hotel Ballina has issued a statement in relation to allegations of an incident that took place at Declan Nerney’s show on Friday night. They have denied the allegations that a brawl broke out at the event, after video footage circulated at…

A 79-year-old man has passed away in Mayo University Hospital from injuries received in a fall on Croagh Patrick on Friday. The victim has been named locally as Pat O’Mahony, a company director, who lived at The Harbour Mill complex, overlooking the Quay,…

The Midlands-North-West constituency will have an extra MEP seat for next June's European Parliament Elections. It's going from 4 to 5 seats, after counties Laois and Offaly transfer from the South to the Midlands. The recommendations follow a month-long…

Housing Minister Dara O'Brien is in Mayo today for a number of official engagements. He will visit Ballina for the official opening of the 50 unit Rehin's Fort social housing development on the Foxford road in the town. He will also visit the almost completed…

A Mayo based company has been crowned Irish Brand of the year at the IMAGE Business of Beauty awards. The awards, now in their 9th year, took place last night in the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road. Ballina based Ella and Jo cosmetics took home the crown of…

The annual Christmas St. Vincent de Paul Appeal begins today with the society expecting over a quarter of a million calls for assistance this year.The charity revealed they recorded 230 thousand requests last year and they expect to exceed that record in the…

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Simon Harris has announced 40 million euro in funding for college campuses across the country.The funding will be provided through the Devolved Grant system and will allow universities make a number of important…

Farmers are at a high risk of stress, mental health issues and heart disease.The Health and Safety Authority is encouraging them to think about their health and wellbeing. A campaign launched today gives guidance on the health issues that relate to their…

Skills shortages have become a critical challenge in the technology sector in Ireland and strategies need to be introduced to enhance the skills needed for the workforce to thrive in the digital era. The path to overcoming these challenges, according to MEP…

The Communications Committee has heard that a subsea cable to bring fibre broadband for offshore islands would be significantly more expensive, take more time and have similar outcomes to a wireless connection. Ten of the 27 offshore islands contained in the…

The Local Authority Home Loan has now been extended to vacant and derelict properties. This news has been confirmed by Mayo based Minister of State Dara Calleary. Those who are successful in applying for the grant must be eligible for a local authority home…

Memorial events are being held around the country today to mark World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. The initiative by the Road Safety and Micromobility Unit of Dublin City Council not only commemorates the victims, but also champions the cause…

A group which represents older people says driving should be based on ability NOT on age. Alone is reacting to European Commission plans that drivers over 70 may have to have regular medical tests and refresher courses to renew their driving licence. The…

One Hundred and 50 Thousand women between the ages of 17 to 26 have taken up free contraception since the scheme was expanded earlier this year. The service provides end-to-end contraception for all women and girls ordinarily resident here, covering the cost…

The well-known Irish businessman Ben Dunne has died at the age of 74. The former Director of Dunnes Stores has passed away while visiting Dubai. He was born in 1949 and he survived a kidnapping by the IRA in 1981. He founded a number of gyms in Dublin where…

As part of Operation Tara, Gardaí attached to the Galway County West Drugs Unit assisted by Loughrea Drugs Unit, Galway Drugs Unit and Garda Dog Unit conducted planned searches on three premises in the Connemara area of County Galway yesterday morning. During…

After weeks and months of dispute, Bonniconlon's Post Office will reopen next month. The service will recommence on December 4, which has been met with rejoice from the locals who would otherwise be forced to travel further afield for postal service. However,…

The newly refurbished Fire Station in Crossmolina is set to officially open its doors on Monday. The project, which has cost over €2 million will be opened by Minister Dara O'Brien, who is in the county for a number of engagements next week. It is the first…

The delivery of defibrillators to both rural and urban communities right across county Mayo is one of the main objectives of the BeeCon project that will be launched tomorrow afternoon (Sunday) in Breaffy Castlebar. From 1.30 to 3.30pm tomorrow in the Breaffy…

A mural in Ballina of US President Joe Biden was vandalised in the last couple of days. The news came to light yesterday morning, shared to X by the Ah Ref account. In the image, you can see the tribute was defaced with red paint splashed on the picture of…

The future of farming and rural Ireland will dominate a special Fine Gael Conference in Kildare this morning. Speaking ahead of the conference the Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture says he recognises farmers had a difficult year, but believes…

The Restaurants Association of Ireland is concerned over a fall in the number of tourists to Ireland. CSO tourism figures show the number of visitors dropped from 737 thousand 600 in August to 582 thousand 100 in September. There have been almost 1 million…

A reminder's going out to people to only use antibiotics when needed. The HSE says overuse leads to antibiotic resistance which makes them less effective against bacterial infections. It's stressing on European Antibiotic Awareness Day they don't work for…

Over 3,600 people are currently being affected by a power outage in North Mayo. The ESB Powercheck website has listed the outage as being in Ballina and the surrounding areas. The ESB apologise for the loss of supply. They are currently working to repair a…

Residents of Clare Island are currently in their 10th day without a water supply for the full island. According to a press release from Community Development Coordinator Joanne Carroll, residents in the North of the island had water restored in their taps…

Gardaí are currently at the scene of a road traffic accident in Castlerea. Midwest Radio News understands that the incident has occurred at a junction in the town on Main Street. Motorists are currently experiencing delays.

The Connacht GAA Sustainable Energy Community has been awarded with the prize for Inspirational Sustainable Energy Community at the 2023 Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland Energy Awards. Founded in 2019 within the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence in Bekan,…

Donegal native Adrian Gallagher has been elected as Chairperson of the Irish Farmer Association Sheep Committee. At a meeting in the Irish Farm Centre yesterday, Chair of the Committee Kevin Comiskey announced that he was stepping down to pursue a nomination…

The women of Ireland deserve better and calling for equal pay for women is about much more than money. That was the message delivered by MEP Maria Walsh when she addressed a Eurofound briefing in Brussels this week to mark European Equal Pay Day. MEP Walsh,…

Progress will be made to address the traffic situation in Ballinrobe from January. That's according to local Fianna Fail Councillor Damien Ryan says a Part 8 is in place which involves a set of traffic lights at Staunton's Junction. He says it's a six week…

An extension has been approved for Knockanillo National School on the outskirts of Ballina. Minister Dara Calleary has received confirmation from Minister Norma Foley that a 1x80m mainstream classroom has been approved. The project will include the removal of…

It will be night of celebration tonight (Friday) at the Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar as the thirteen winners of 2023 Mayo People of the Year Awards are presented. The annual awards are organised by Mayo Rehab working with Mayo County Council and the…

There were great celebrations at the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Castlebar campus yesterday as a number of students received ATU Academic Excellence Awards as they graduated from a variety of faculties. Midwest News Editor Teresa O’Malley caught…

Free Christmas Parking in both Claremorris and Ballinrobe local authority car parks for the month of December was approved today by members of Claremorris/Swinford Municipal District. This has been confirmed to Midwest News by local Councillor Tom Connolly.…

19 public sector unions will meet today to consider an invitation from government to public service pay talks.It's after the Public Expenditure Minister invited them to discussions on a new wage deal at the WRC.The unions affiliated to the ICTU Public Service…

Lower paid workers are set to benefit most as the number of paid sick leave days is increased. It'll rise from 3 to 5 days a year from the 1st of January, at a rate of 70 per cent of gross earnings, with a cap of 110 euro. Paid sick leave is to increase from…

Cervical cancer in Ireland will be eliminated by 2040 with sustained effort from all stakeholders. The Minister for Health has made the declaration to mark Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action, a global initiative aimed at eradicating cervical cancer.…

Motorists in Ballina can avail of free car parking facilities in council car parks in the town this Christmas for the month of December. From Friday, December 1st through to Friday December 29th, the free car parking will be available from 2pm daily in the…

The Junior Transport Minister says it has been a “devastating year on the roads.” A ministerial road safety committee is meeting today to discuss the increase in road fatalities and measures to combat the rising death toll. 167 people have lost their lives on…

Emergency services are currently at the scene of a road traffic collision just outside Westport on the Ballinrobe Road. A stop / go system is currently in place. No serious injuries have been reported.

Fake texts claiming to be from Revolut, E Flow and delivery companies are among the most common scams this year. Call and text scams are up 20 per cent although the amount of money they’re making is lowering. Women and people in their 40s to 60s are the most…

Farmers on Achill Island are continuing to fight their case for their delayed farm payments. The financial impact they are experiencing is as a result of commonage land fires. A delegation led by Mayo Hill Chairman Pat Chambers, which included Sean Corrigan,…

Councillors in Ballina have expressed astonishment at how anyone that was offered social housing accommodation in the newly completed 55 unit, Rehins Fort housing estate, on the Foxford Road in Ballina, rejected the offer. The new state of the art development…

The N84 road between Party and Ballinrobe at Keel Bridge has again re-opened to traffic. It was closed for a period this morning , following a road collision. The Emergency services attended the scene of the two vehicle collision. There are no reports of any…

The N84 road between Party and Ballinrobe at Keel Bridge is closed to traffic at present following a road collision earlier this morning, approximately 8.30am. The Emergency services are at the scene. Road diversions are in place. There are no further details…

 The Towers Bar and Restaurant at the Quay in Westport secured a national title last night. At the 2023 Irish Pub Awards the establishment won the Best Outdoor Space national award. Tom Burke of the Towers Bar and Restaurant told Midwest news today that he’s…

There is very little appetite among publicans to standardise opening times across the country. A report due to be published by the Oireachtas Justice Committee on proposed changes to the licensing laws found that pub owners, particularly in rural areas, were…

An appeal has been made to motorists in the county to appreciate that extensive road works are underway across the county at present and so some traffic delays can be expected. At yesterday’s monthly meeting of Ballina Municipal District, Director of Services…

An awareness campaign is being launched today to make the Irish public aware of one of the most dangerous forms of cancer. On World Pancreatic Cancer Day, experts are highlighting some of the symptoms associated with the disease including tummy pains,…

The names of more Irish citizens are understood to be on the list of those set to leave Gaza today. Its not known how many are expected to cross the Rafah gate into Egypt, after 23 Irish citizens were evacuated yesterday. Meanwhile, the UN Security Council's…

Almost 8 in 10 people in Ireland are against EU plans to allow 16 year olds to drive. The European Commission has proposed that 16 year olds should be able to drive as long as there's a speed limit device in their car of 45km. The proposal is aimed at helping…

Irish Rail has confirmed that its online timetable has been updated with the introduction of the new 7.35pm train from Dublin to Westport. Mayo Deputy Alan Dillon said he has received confirmation from Irish Rail that commuters on the new train service can…

Ballina is rapidly losing its reputation as the “Salmon Capital of Ireland”, and that’s the fault of the number of seals along the Moy estuary destroying the fishing tourism industry in the north Mayo capital. That’s according to Ballina based Fine Gael…

A psychiatrist called on behalf of a man accused of murdering his wife in County Mayo has told a jury that he believes he was suffering from a mental disorder at the time. James Kilroy is on trial for the murder of Valerie French-Kilroy, who was found dead in…

The R375 in Kilkelly has reopened to traffic this evening. Local Councillor John Caulfield says Electric Skyline have been out to the site and removed the street light that has fallen when a building collapsed in the town two weeks ago. Traffic Management is…

Mayo has one of the highest rates of homelessness outside our cities. There are now 572 people homeless in the west, 220 of whom are children. Sinn Fein Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh says Mayo now has the sixth highest number of people suffering homelessness in…

A memorial service is being held in Dublin this afternoon to mark the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. 166 people have lost their lives on the roads since the start of the year, compared to 140 around the same time last year. Representatives…

The first group of Irish citizens have left Gaza through the Rafah crossing with Egypt. It was reported 20 to 30 of the 40 Irish passport holders would be evacuated from the occupied territory today. However, Tánaiste Micheál Martin, who's in Egypt, says the…

A local councillor says the main street in Kilkelly is to reopen later today, after being closed for 2 weeks. Councillor John Caulfield says Electric Skyline have been out to the site and removed the street light that has fallen when a building collapsed in…

A number of Irish citizens are believed to have left Gaza through the Rafah crossing into Egypt. Tanaiste Micheal Martin travelled to Cairo overnight, where he says he'll continue to work to help more citizens to leave. It's reported 20 to 30 of the 40 Irish…

Free Christmas Parking in Ballina local authority car parks for the month of December was approved today by members of Ballina Municipal District. The free afternoon local authority car parking will be in operation from 2pm daily from Friday December 1st to…

This morning’s meeting of Ballina Municipal District was adjourned for 15 mins as a mark of respect to the late Councillor Eddie Staunton.Eddie was laid to rest yesterday.The Crossmolina based Fine Gael councillor served as a local representative for more…

All of the required funding to construct the new Murrisk community water connection is now in place. That's according to Mayo Fine Gael Deputy Michael Ring. He says the overall cost of the Murrisk community water connection is almost €8.25 million. The…