A number of nursing homes across the county insist the report of deaths due to confirmed or suspected COVID 19, reported on Midwest news today, are incorrect. The numbers from a confidential HSE report, were published in today’s Irish Times. The Pilgrims…

Following a report in today's Irish Times that 9 residents at Brookvale Manor Nursing Home in Ballyhaunis have died of confirmed or suspected Covid-19, the operators of the facility - Brindley Healthcare - have issued a statement to Midwest News. The company…

Temperatures could reach 28 degrees in some places today. Met Eireann says it's expected to be the hottest day of the year, and the warm weather will continue into the weekend. Belmullet and Mount Dillon in Roscommon are the hottest spots so far today - both…

Tonight is the deadline for Leaving Cert students to register for the Calculated Grades online portal. In order to get a certificate of Calculated Grades, all Leaving Cert and LCA students must register online before 10pm tonight at…

Water supplies in the Elphin area of Co Roscommon may be impacted today, as a result of an electrical outage in the area between 10am and 2pm. Irish Water and Roscommon County Council are advising customers in Elphin Town, Shankill Cross, Ballyroddy and…

American company Meissner Filtration Products has announced today that their new manufacturing facility in Castlebar is now operational. Last year, the company purchased a building constructed by IDA Ireland and adjacent land with plans to triple the…

Mayo County Council has confirmed that beach lifeguarding season will begin this Bank Holiday Weekend with lifeguard teams on duty from 12:00pm Saturday on official beaches. Co Mayo’s official life-guarded beaches are: Keem Bay, Keel Beach, Silver Strand,…

Knock Shrine is to take part in a global Rosary with the Pope this Saturday. Pope Francis is to join in prayer with Marian shrines across the world to pray for help amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, and Knock Shrine is among the sanctuaries across the five…

The West of Ireland is set to bask in sunshine today, with temperatures expected to soar to 26 degrees or higher in places. Meet Eireann the warm and mostly dry weather will continue over the Bank Holiday Weekend, with temperatures of 22-24 degrees in…

There have been no new confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Mayo for the fourth day in a row. Nationally, a further 17 deaths from the virus were reported last evening, with 73 new cases confirmed. Across Connacht, the only county to show an increase was Galway,…

Councillors have agreed to write to Irish Rail inviting them to address a meeting of the Castlebar Municipal District to hear the concerns of the community who live close to the notorious Kilnageer Level Crossing. Three members of the Kilnageer community…

A further 17 people have died from Covid 19 in the Republic. It brings the death toll to 1631. 73 new cases have also been confirmed. A total of 24,803 people have now contracted the virus here.

The man who died in last night's road collision between Newport and Mulranny has been named locally as Brendan Heffernan originally from Carrowgarve in Crossmolina but living in Westport. The collision between a motorbike and a tractor occurred at about 8.30…

Minister Simon Harris has asked the CEO of the HSE to compile a report addressing the issues raised, over several weeks now, around the management of Covid and non covid patients at Mayo University Hospital . Minister Harris confirmed that to Mayo Fianna Fail…

A Mayo bus company is ready to help transport commuters to work, as Covid-19 restrictions begin to phase out. Corduff Travel, like many public transport services, was severely hit by the lockdown, losing around 99% of its usual business. Out of a fleet of…

The Chief Medical Officer has told government Ministers he won't be recommending a change to the two metre social distancing rule at the moment. Some Ministers had asked if it could be reduced to one metre which the World Health Organisation has deemed safe.…

A case of BSE, or 'mad cow disease', has been confirmed in an Irish animal. The Department of Agriculture says an 'atypical' case of the disease has been detected in a 14-year-old cow. All Irish beef exports to China have been temporarily suspended. IFA…

The N59 road between Newport and Mulranny has reopened following a fatal crash last night in which a motorcyclist died. The collision between a motorbike and tractor occurred at about 8.30 pm at Ardagh, Newport. The driver of the motorcycle, a man in his…

Saolta has now clearly stated that at Mayo University Hospital Covid 19 and non covid 19 patients are not in the same wards and that there is no crossover of staff between patients with the virus and without it. Saolta issued the statement yesterday evening…

Supermacs has confirmed that it has now reopened all of its outlets in Mayo. The Ballyhaunis outlet was the latest Supermac's to start providing a limited service to customers, as part of the phased reopening of outlets. A spokesman for the company said all 9…

The Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan will brief Cabinet Ministers this afternoon about how Ireland is doing in the fight against Covid 19. The two metre social distancing rule and Covid-19 restrictions are expected to dominate the agenda. New coronavirus…

Mayo / Roscommon Hospice has confirmed that its shops across the two counties will reopen on Tuesday 9th June. The 12 charity shops were closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which has severely impacted on the Hospice revenue. However, the Hospice has…

A motorcyclist has died following a collision near Newport last night. The collision between a motorbike and tractor occurred at about 8.30 pm at Ardagh, Newport. The driver of the motorcycle, a man in his 30's, was pronounced dead at the scene, and his body…

Staff at Mayo University Hospital do not treat patients with Covid-19 as well as non-Covid patients. That's according to a statement from the Saolta Hospital Group, which was sent to Midwest News yesterday evening, following ongoing concerns expressed by…

There have been no new cases of Covid-19 in Connacht over the past 24 hours. Latest figures show that the number of confirmed cases in Mayo is unchanged over the past two days at 568. There are 461 confirmed cases in Co Galway, 319 in Roscommon, 129 in Sligo…

Two Mayo teenagers are hoping to raise enough funds this weekend to purchase a new vehicle for Western Care. Twin sister Abi and Ava Galvin from Ballina are doing a 24hr Tik Tok challenge with the aim of raising €10,000 for the local charity. From 12 mid-day…

A Swinford newsagents has closed its doors permanently after over 200 years in business. Mellett’s Newsagency has been selling newspapers in the town for around 223 years and has been in its current location since 1985. The family business announced on their…

The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) needs to be called in to establish what is happening at Mayo University Hospital in relation to the crossover of hospital staff with covid and non covid patients. That’s the view of the Cathaoirleach of…

The long-awaited road realignment project at an accident blackspot between Dunmore and Tuam is to go to tender. A number of collisions have occurred in recent years at Twenty Minute Hill on the N83 Dunmore-Tuam road, and traffic lights have been in place,…

The bathing water quality at 12 out of Mayo's 15 beaches has been described as excellent in the latest EPA report. The Bathing Water in Ireland report for 2019 shows that, overall, bathing water quality improved across the country last year, with 95% of…

Parts of west Roscommon will be without water supply until this evening following a burst water main. The areas affected include Feigh, Shannon Cross, Briarfield, Silverfield, Curraghsallagh, Lisacul Village and surrounds. Irish Water and Roscommon County…

Water at Galway’s Clifden and Ballyloughnane beaches were found to be poor , according to the latest water quality report by the Environmental Protection Agency. However,swimmers will no longer be allowed into the water at Dublin's Merrion Strand. It's after…

People carrying out pranks with farm machinery should be reported to gardaí, according to the Irish Farmers Association. It's after footage emerged on Tik Tok showing users filming dangerously on tractors and trailers. There have been eight people killed on…

Midwest News asked Saolta since last week, to clarify if there continues to be crossover of staff at Mayo University Hospital between Covid 19 and non Covid 19 patients. We asked for an interview with the CEO of Saolta Tony Canavan or the Manager of Mayo…

Yesterday marked the first time no new virus-related deaths were recorded since March 21st, and it came on the back of a recent downward trend. Dr Tony Holohan has described the latest Covid-19 figures as a "positive development," but warned against…

No new Covid-19 deaths have been reported today. It's the first time since mid-March. 59 new cases of the virus have been confirmed. It means the death toll from the virus remains at 1,606 while the total number of cases is 24,698.

The Saolta Hospital Group has issued a statement to Midwest News this evening, stating that Mayo University Hospital "has implemented a range of infection prevention and control practices to manage suspect and confirmed Covid-19 patients and reduce Covid…

Priests have hit out at people who are calling for public Masses to be reinstated. The Association of Catholic Priests says it is 'grossly irresponsible'. The association has released a statement, saying "efforts demanding that churches be kept open and…

Online registration for Leaving Cert calculated grades opens tomorrow at 10am. Participating students should log on to gov.ie/leavingcertificate where they will be be asked which level they are choosing. They will need: their exam number, their PPS number,…

Ballinrobe, Castlebar and Claremorris Musical Societies are among eight musical societies in the Western region who have been nominated for AIMS awards this year. Ballinrobe Musical Society were nominated for two awards following their production of "The…

Irish Water has launched advice for businesses that are reopening their premises after lockdown. The company has published a list of measures that owners and managers can take to mitigate risks such as leaks, blockages and stagnant water. Irish Water says a…

Trocaire is urging people across the West to return their boxes, after donations to its Lenten Appeal fell by almost two-thirds, due to Covid-19. The charity has issued an urgent appeal to supporters to return donations from their Trocaire boxes, as the 60%…

Eir say they're working to resolve a problem in areas of Mayo and Sligo, which has impacted on mobile phone and broadband coverage for a number of customers. The company says there was an ESB power outage over the weekend which impacted on the Eir networks in…

There were reports circulating on social media over the weekend that a direct provision centre for asylum seekers was to be located in Westport town. Midwest News contacted Minister Michael Ring today and asked him about the rumours. Minister Ring says he was…

Saolta, the organisation in charge of hospitals across this region, now needs to come out and clarify to the public if crossover of staff at Mayo University Hospital between covid and non covid patients is continuing. That’s the view of Aontu member in Mayo…

The Sligo town of Tubbercurry is hoping to reap the rewards of the hit T.V phenomenon that is ‘Normal People’. Adapted from Castlebar woman Sally Rooney’s novel, the show follows the story of two teenagers and their relationship from sixth year until the end…

Hairdressers will present numerous proposals to the government this week in an effort to open earlier than planned.The proposals include over 100 recommendations like wearing PPE and removing magazines.Hair salons and barber shops are due to reopen on July…

Gardaí from Mayo Divisional Roads Policing Unit stopped a motorist driving in excess of the speed limit on the N5. It was also established that the car did not have an NCT Certificate and the driver was in possession of a Fake Driving Licence. Gardaí detained…

A Westport councillor has called on local community and residents groups to look at potential cycle routes in their area, and then bring their ideas to local councillors. Fine Gael councillor Peter Flynn says Minister Ring’s department is open to funding such…

The Government is said to be considering accelerating the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions if the number of new cases continues to decline. The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar may make an announcement in early June on easing parts of the lockdown. The next phase in…

Recipients of the Covid-19 unemployment payment could be in for a “terrible shock” at the end of the year if an awareness campaign explaining that they could have a tax liability for the benefit does not start soon, a Sligo TD has warned. Independent…

4 more people with COVID-19 have died. There have now been a total 1,608 COVID-19 related deaths in Ireland. 57 more confirmed cases of COVID-19 have also been detected, bringing the total to 24,639.

A Mayo Green Party member says she would be 'absolutely shocked' if the party's grassroots membership voted in favour of a programme for government with Fine Gael and Fianna Fail. 2020 General Election candidate, Saoirse McHugh, made the comments earlier this…

Two former students of St. Muredach’s college in Ballina have launched an eco-friendly clothing range. Richard Grimes (20) from Enniscrone and Peter Timlin (19) from Ballina have spent the past few months establishing their Pure clothing brand and are now…

The Government must stand up for business owners and people who are self-employed against the Insurance Industry and the Banks. That's the view of Mayo Sinn Fein TD Rose Conway-Walsh who says business people are wondering whether the insurance industry is…

Tens of thousands of workers who were getting the Pandemic Unemployment Payment will be moved to receiving jobseekers' benefit. The Sunday Times reports ministers will present plans to cut back the payment for part-time workers next week. It follows claims by…

Nursing homes were told not to reveal the extent of any Covid-19 outbreaks to residents' families. The Business Post reports a Nursing Homes Ireland memo from March advised managers not to provide updates on "the total number of suspected confirmed cases…

The Leaving Cert isn't as fair as people think, according to a UCD Professor and former teacher. Covid-19 has meant for the first time the written exams have been cancelled and replaced with predictive grades, which will be given by teachers. Carnacon woman…

A market in Galway City has reopened today for food traders only following its closure because of a lack of social distancing yesterday. Galway City Council were advised by Gardaí to close St Nicholas' market as they believed the public were not adhering the…

Castlebar Gardaí recovered a bicycle stolen from the GMIT car park at Mayo University Hospital which belonged to a frontline worker. The property was taken from the bike shelter in the car park on Thursday while its owner was working in the hospital. Gardaí…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has been informed of an additional 13 deaths related to Covid-19, bringing the total number of deaths in Ireland related to the novel coronavirus to 1,604. A further 76 confirmed cases have also been announced. There…

There was a community meeting at the Kilnageer railway crossing today where the new lights system were activated during the week. Cllrs Al McDonnell, Ger Deere and Cyril Burke were all in attendance. The community spoke about their disappointment with the new…

The Taoiseach says the current two metre rules around social distancing still stand. The issue was raised at Cabinet yesterday, with some ministers calling for it to be reduced to one metre, in line with WHO recommendations. It's expected it'll once again be…

The Health Minister has announced the establishment of a Covid 19 nursing home expert panel. It'll look at the measures currently in place here to protect residents, and review the international response to coronavirus in those settings. 867 people living in…

The transformation of Lissadell House in Co Sligo into a major music venue will provide a boost to the hospitality sector across the region in the wake of Covid-19. That's according to Constance Cassidy and Constance Walsh of Lissadell House, who revealed to…

Researchers at NUI Galway, who operate the Covid-19 fact checking website iHealthFacts, have found the most commonly asked question is whether the public should wear face masks. The Health Research Board set up the website in April and has recently dismissed…

A Radiography Assistant whose bicycle was stolen, received a brand new complimentary one yesterday. Claire Walsh's yellow and black bike was stolen from Mayo University Hospital's GMIT shelter on Thursday. Westport Bike Shop delivered a brand new one to the…

Some government ministers are pushing for physical distancing rules to be relaxed. The Irish Examiner reports 'robust' discussions were held at Cabinet yesterday about changing the advice from two metres to one. Current World Health Organisation guidelines…

€243,000 in funding has been approved for the Downpatrick Head Community Water Connection. That’s according to the Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring. The Fine Gael TD confirmed that Minister Eoghan Murphy signed off on approval for the…

An easing of Covid-19 restrictions for children could be introduced early next month. The National Public Health Emergency Team's working with several Government departments to examine how some measures could be lifted for under-18s in Phase 2, due to come…

A woman has been arrested and 50,000 euro worth of drugs have been seized in Co. Roscommon. The cocaine was discovered after Gardaí stopped and searched a vehicle on the N5 at Tulsk at around 7:30 yesterday evening. A woman in her late teens was arrested and…

The ASTI has advised its members to engage with the calculated grades system for this year's Leaving Cert. The union's resolved a dispute with the Department of Education over legal protection for teachers. The calculated grades system for this year's Leaving…

The go ahead has been given for a new fire station for Crossmolina and the project has opened for receipt of tenders for construction on Etenders today. The closing date for receipt of tenders is 1st July and all going to plan we should see the long awaited…

The chimney of the Old Connacht Laundry Site in Galway City collapsed in the early hours of this morning, resulting in the closure of St. Helen’s Street for much of the morning. A passerby contacted Mill Street Gardaí at 8:30am this morning after they saw the…

The GMA (General Municipal Allocation) monies that had been “paused” by council officials last week for voluntary and community groups across county Mayo are now to be paid out in agreed phases. The development has emerged following a meeting yesterday…

Gardaí in Galway arrested a man and seized more than €31,000 in cash, and suspected cocaine from a house in Galway city yesterday. At 10pm last night gardaí attached to the Divisional Drugs Unit searched a house under warrant at Ballybane in the city, where…

Funding allocated to support the Tidy Towns groups this year is still be available to them, even though the SuperValu TidyTowns competition has had to be cancelled this year due to public health considerations. That has been confirmed by Minister for Rural…

The tender for road realignment at Twenty Minute Hill on the N83, Tuam to Dunmore Road, will be published in the coming weeks, according to Galway East TD and Minister for Rural Affairs Seán Canney. Minister Canney told Midwest News today that this section of…

The death has taken place of Anthony Vesey of Castlebar. Mr Vesey stood as an Independent candidate in last year’s local elections. He was a member of the Irish Republican Socialist Party and the party has paid tribute to him on social media saying that,…

The bicycle of a frontline worker at Mayo University Hospital was stolen yesterday. The Castlebar woman started her shift at the hospital at 8:30 yesterday morning and she left to go home to find her bicycle was missing. The bicycle was left in the bike…

Some Covid-19 restrictions could be eased sooner, specifically for children and their parents. The National Public Health Emergency Team meets this morning to examine how to lift some of the measures to reduce the burden on young families. Public health…

West Mayo Councillors have called on the Minister for Education to intervene and insist that the site and funding promised by the Dept of Education for a new school building for The Holy Trinity school in Westport is immediately provided. The issue was raised…

Mayo teenagers Sophia Hession, Orlaith Heaney, Caoimhe Monaghan and Aoibheann Mangan from Mount St Michael Secondary school in Claremorris, were named as winners of the Junior Eco Community Development Award at the Young Environmentalist Awards hosted by…

Three yellow wind warnings are in place across the country. The warnings are impacting on counties Mayo, Galway, Donegal, Sligo, Clare and Kerry and will be in effect until 9pm tonight. Met Eireann says 'unseasonably' windy weather is leading to gusts of up…

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane has accused Minister Creed of having a ‘total hands-off approach’ to Covid-19 outbreaks in meat factories. Deputy Kerrane was speaking during statements and questions with the Minister for Agriculture in the…

Planning is underway for a potential second wave of the Coronavirus this autumn that could coincide with flu season. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said the virus has been effectively suppressed in the community and the current data is positive. A decision on…

Gyms could open sooner than the 10th of August, if the government had enough Health and Safety (HSA) inspectors in place. That’s the view of Ballina based gym owner Paul Ginty of Quay Fitness Ballina. He is calling on the Minister for Sport Shane Ross, to…

Met Eireann has extended its wind warnings for coastal counties tonight and tomorrow. A status yellow wind warning is in place for counties Mayo and Galway which will come into effect from 9pm tonight until 9pm tomorrow night. A yellow wind warning has also…

The Saolta Hospital group needs to make a statement urgently on claims of a crossover of nursing staff between Covid and non-Covid patients at Mayo University Hospital. That's the view of Mayo Fianna Fail TD Dara Calleary, who has also written to the Minister…

Gardai will undertake a 24-hour National Slow Down Day from 7am tomorrow morning. With more road deaths recorded so far this year compared to last year, Gardai and the Road Safety Authority say we can never be complacent about road safety. 56 people have died…

More than 70,000 Irish homes and premises - including over 1,000 in Co Mayo - are in danger of coastal flooding caused by climate change, according to new data compiled for the insurance industry. Dublin, Louth and Clare would suffer the greatest damage in…

The Bank of Ireland needs to clarify its plans for the future of the branch in Ballyhaunis. That's according to local solicitor Evan O'Dwyer, who has written to the Bank of Ireland CEO Francesca McDonagh on behalf of a number of local businesses and…

Restrictions on the length of workplace meetings due to Covid-19 will be in place for the foreseeable future. The Houses of the Oireachtas and the Courts are limiting sittings to under two hours, following HSE guidance, while the Health Minister will only…

Nurses at Mayo University Hospital claim the crossover of staff between Covid-19 patients and non-Covid patients has continued up to this week, despite a claim by the Saolta Hospital group that this practice had ceased a month ago. Following concerns…

Met Eireann has issued a status yellow wind warning for Mayo and Galway for tonight and tomorrow. Following a period of very mild weather, the two counties can expect south to southeast winds gusting to between 85 and 110 km/h, mainly in coastal areas and on…

The new lights installed by Irish Rail at the notorious Kilnageer railway crossing outside Castlebar, were commissioned yesterday. However, it remains a manual crossing, despite being located along a busy road that links Belcarra to Breaffy. It has been the…

A new drive-through test facility for coronavirus has opened today in Castlerea. The HSE has confirmed to Midwest News that, in line with their plans to increase Covid-19 testing, a new facility has opened today at the Castlerea Fire Station, which has been…

A Galway restauranteur and the CEO of Center Parcs in Longford are among the members of a new Tourism Recovery Taskforce, dedicated to spearheading economic recovery for the tourism sector. Minister Shane Ross says tourism is Ireland's largest indigenous…

A Lotto prize won two months ago in Roscommon Town has yet to be claimed. The ticket was sold at McNeill's Foodstore in Roscommon on Saturday 14th March, and is worth over €96,000. Shop owner Liam McNeill has taken to social media to appeal to customers to…

Surgical gowns, which were part of a consignment of faulty PPE sent from China to the HSE, are being modified at three HSE Mental Health Service Training Centres across Co Roscommon to make them useable. On arrival from China, the sleeves of the surgical…

A Mayo TD is calling on Government to sort out the anomaly where women returning from maternity leave are not entitled to the Covid-19 Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme. The scheme enables employees to receive State supports through their employer's payroll in…

The cancellation of the 2020 Croagh Patrick pilgrimage was announced yesterday by the Administrator in Westport, Fr Charlie McDonnell. The event has been cancelled due to public health concerns and the practicalities of adhering to social distancing rules…

Funding of over half a million euro has been allocated for improvement works at four piers and harbours in Co Mayo. Roonagh, Killala and Blacksod piers and Ballina Harbour will all benefit from the funding, which will be allocated through Mayo County Council…

Meanwhile, a further four Covid-19 clusters have been confirmed in meat processing plants in the past seven days, bringing the total to 16. They account for 828 cases, an increase of 328 over the week. Meat Industry Ireland says it's disappointed by the rise,…

Employers will no longer be told about their workers Covid-19 test results. Yesterday, the HSE confirmed the issue had been taking place in some 'exceptional' circumstances. However, it now says the practice is being suspended as it seeks advice on the matter…

A further 16 people with Covid-19 have died. 51 new cases have also been confirmed this evening. It brings the death toll from the virus to 1,561, while there are 24,251 confirmed cases in this country.

Mayo County Council has delayed the reopening of the Croagh Patrick carpark at Murrisk. This comes following confirmation this morning that the annual Reek Sunday pilgrimage, which takes place on the last Sunday in July, has been cancelled this year due to…

The Data Protection Commission is examining complaints it has received in relation to Covid 19 test results being made available to employers before staff members. It centres on tests carried out at certain facilities. Individuals have expressed shock and…

The emergency phase of COVID-19 may be with us for months or years according to the head of the Department of Health. Jim Breslin has said the virus will be an ever-present danger for the foreseeable future. The Dáil's new COVID-19 committee is holding a…

Irish Water and Roscommon County Council are carrying out emergency repairs to a burst watermain, which is impacting on customers in Cloonfad, Clooneish and surrounding areas of south Roscommon. Consumers in these areas may experience low water pressure or…

Argos has reopened some of its stores, as part of the easing of restrictions, for online reservation orders only. The Argos stores at Hopkins Road in Castlebar, Headford Road in Galway and Cleveragh Retail Park in Sligo have reopened but only for online…

The Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council has called on the executive of the local authority to immediately restore funding under the GMA fund, a fund that provides important monies to a wide variety of voluntary and community groups. Speaking to Midwest Radio…

Mayo Fine Gael Minister Michael Ring told Midwest Radio News this morning that he may have to consider not speaking at private parliamentary party meetings in the future, after he found himself extensively quoted from yesterday’s private meeting of Fine Gael.…

Reek Sunday 2020 has been cancelled.It’s another casualty of the Covid 19 pandemic Local administrator Fr Charlie McDonnell appeals to pilgrims to respect what he terms “the difficult decision”. The decision has been taken after extensive consultation with…

Aldi has now submitted an official planning application for a new store to develop the Deanwood Hotel site in Ballina , a premises that has been derelict for many years. The German company has applied to Mayo County Council for permission to demolish the…

While nationally the number of new confirmed cases of Covid-19 falls significantly, it continues to rise in Mayo - with 5 additional cases yesterday. The figures announced yesterday evening show 4 more people have died from Covid-19 in the Republic of…

 A further four people have died from Covid-19 in the Republic of Ireland, while another 88 cases of the virus have also been confirmed. It means the death toll now stands at 1,547. There's also now a total of 24,200 confirmed cases.

Councillors in the West Mayo Municipal District were informed today that the GMA funding for 2020 - which provides grants for community and voluntary organisations - has been "paused". Council officials said the funding approved by councillors will not be…

Workers who are returning to work today, and who had been claiming the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment are advised to close their claim for the payment today, to make sure they will not lose out in getting their payment for this week. The payment is…

Funding which was allocated for agricultural shows this year can be used in 2021, where shows are being cancelled due to Covid-19. That's according to the Mayo-based Minister for Rural & Community Development Michael Ring. Minister Ring says that, late last…

The flu vaccine is being made available free of charge for children aged 2 to 12 years of age. Health Minister Simon Harris has also announced that at-risk groups, aged from 6 months to 69 years can also get the vaccine free of charge. Minister Harris says a…

Queues have been reported outside a number of business premises in Castlebar this morning, as today marks the first phase of easing the Covid-19 restrictions. Garden centres, DIY stores, golf courses and tennis courses have opened, construction workers have…

Cong Abbey in Mayo is one of a number of tourism heritage sites reopening to the public today, under the first phase of easing Covid-19 restrictions. The OPW has announced a gradual reopening strategy , ensuring that sites can only reopen where it is possible…

Gardai are investigating after fire equipment, with an estimated value of over €2,000 was taken from the scene of a blaze in Gorthaganny while the fire service were dealing with a gorse fire. Units of Ballaghaderreen, Ballyhaunis, Charlestown and Swinford…

Fianna Fáil's calling for meat factories to be closed until staff have tested negative for Covid-19. There are at least 12 outbreaks in plants across the country - and more than 550 cases. Fianna Fáil says all staff in meat factories should be tested even if…

The Trade Union Federation is calling on building firms to ensure workers are given maximum protection when they return to work today. The union which includes SIPTU, BATU and CONNECT says employees need written assurances on how the safety regulations will…

There isn't going to be a frenzy at hardware stores as they reopen today, according to the head of Woodies DIY. Garden centres and hardware shops are back open this morning as part of the first easing of Coronavirus restrictions. Woodies chairman Declan…

The leaders of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party will meet to discuss government formation today. The negotiations themselves will also resume this morning, with a focus on housing. A row broke out between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael over the weekend,…

Nurses and doctors say we must ensure overcrowding doesn't return to emergency departments in the coming weeks. The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation and Irish Association for Emergency Medicine fear the problem may come back. They're warning that…

Ireland is slowly starting to reopen this morning after weeks of Covid-19 restrictions. Health officials are urging people to be cautious as phase one of the roadmap gets under way. From this morning hardware, electrical, IT and phone sales shops will all…

Any person that received a SUSI grant over the last two years should automatically receive their grant for the forthcoming academic year. That’s the view of Ballinrobe based Councillor Michael Burke who says that unless you won the lotto your circumstances…

10 more people with COVID-19 have died. There have now been a total 1,543 COVID-19 related deaths in the country. 64 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 have also been confirmed bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 24,112. There are five new cases in…

A concerted effort should be made to secure the All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil for county Mayo in 2023/24. That’s the view of the Cathaoirleach of Westport/Belmullet Municipal District Christy Hyland. The Independent councillor made the proposal at this week’s…

On the Saturday of the Mayo Bank Holiday weekend just past, virtual Mayo Day 2020 took place. It was a virtual event due to the national pandemic lockdown that the country was, and remains in. Hosted by Mayo County Council, the success of Mayo Day this year…

The owner of a Galway car dealership believes car emission reduction targets in the Climate Action Plan are 'totally unrealistic'. James McCormack is the owner of Western Motors in Ballybrit, County Galway and is the Western Region representative for the…

The Green Party leader says the next week will be 'crucial' in government formation talks. Officials from the party, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail are discussing forming a coalition. Last week the focus was on Justice, Finance and Brexit, with talks expected to…

There's been a roughly 10 percent increase in attendances and admissions at Emergency Departments in the past week. However they still remain well below what they were this time last year - down 23 and 18 percent respectively. Chief Operations Officer with…

The Health Minister says Ireland's now at a 'crucial moment' in its fight against Covid-19. Simon Harris' comments come as the first phase of the government's plan to ease restrictions comes into effect tomorrow. Dr Kevin Kelleher from the HSE says sticking…

Some non-Covid patients will be tested before entering hospital for elective surgeries. The Business Post reports it's part of the HSE's plan to resume normal service, after non-urgent care was postponed in March due to the pandemic. Procedures that cause…

Emergency services attended the scene of a farm accident at Keelogues, Ballyvary, Castlebar yesterday. A man received what are described as non life threatening injuries when a tractor overturned in a field. The man was taken to hospital from the scene by…

The country's Chief Medical Officer says yesterday was the first time we've seen the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus fall below 100 since mid-March. There were 92 new confirmed cases of the virus. Another 15 people have died in the Republic, bringing…

The Local Enterprise Office will play a major role in local businesses getting back up and running once restrictions are lifted. Ballinrobe Councillor Michael Burke told this week’s County Council meeting that the LEO Office should contact every rate payer in…

Members of the Mayo Fire Service are currently at the scene of a forest fire in the Swinford area. The fire broke out at a Coillte plantation in the Midfield area earlier this afternoon and the alarm was raised at around 2pm. One unit of the fire service are…

Three people in Erris are running 600km this month to raise funds for the Belmullet Hospital Comfort Care Fund. The event is being organised by Mai Sweeney whose Grandmother recently passed away at the hospital but the family were overwhelmed with the…

There is an immediate need for a helpline to be set up where a bereaved person can speak directly to a psychologist or a bereavement counsellor to deal with the very different funeral service for any loved one during the present pandemic lockdown. That’s the…

Commercial vehicle roadworthiness testing centres will reopen from Monday. It will be available for vans and cars that were due for a check before March 28th. The Road Safety Authority say if any of the 150 centres across the country cannot follow safety…

The Vice President of the European Parliament says she's concerned by the lack of progress being made in Brexit negotiations. This weeks talks between the UK and EU ended with disagreements on both sides - EU Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier said the UK's…

Plans on how to hold a general election during the Covid-19 pandemic are being drawn up by government. It'll see voting spread out over a number of days, there'll be postal votes for 'cocooners' and polling stations in nursing homes. According to the Irish…

The government's being called on to make a U-turn on its decision not to make it mandatory for people to wear face coverings on public transport. The state's recommending people use them on public transport and in shops. But SIPTU's John Murphy says a rethink…

Parents are being urged to monitor their children for symptoms, as concerns grow over a new rare inflammatory syndrome, thought to be linked to Covid-19. 7 children here have already been investigated for the condition, called PIMS, while there are 230…

A further 16 people with COVID19 have died. 1,518 people have now lost their lives from the virus in the Republic of Ireland. 129 new cases were confirmed yesterday bringing the total number of cases in the country to 23,956. The number of cases across…

Phase one of the easing of Coronavirus restrictions will begin next week. Cabinet has signed off on the move which will see construction sites, DIY and hardware stores open from Monday. People will also be allowed to play golf or tennis and meet in groups of…

More than 7,200 children are waiting for an assessment for physiotherapy with the HSE. According to the latest figures, nearly 1,200 kids have been on the waiting list for over a year. They include over 201 in Galway as well as significant number of people…

A number of Swinford homes were in danger when a forest fire engulfed a Coillte plantation yesterday evening. Mayo Fire Service confirmed that there was a “threat in the early stages to some dwellings” after the fire in Midfield was reported with four fire…

The funeral of the Argentinian Ambassador to Ireland has taken place in Foxford. Laura Bernal died suddenly at her home in Dublin last month. The ambassador was buried in Foxford, in recognition of the town's strong links with Argentina. Ms Bernal was…

It could take up to two years to clear the backlog of elective surgeries which were cancelled due to Covid-19. New research from the University of Birmingham says 28 million surgeries worldwide could be cancelled or postponed due to the pandemic. There's…

Three men have been arrested after Gardaí in Frenchpark and Castlerea seized more than €15,000 worth of cash and cannabis herb as part of an ongoing operation into the sale and supply of drugs in the area. Gardaí conducted a search of a property in the…

Independent TD Denis Naughten has said many people working in the meat processing sector are afraid to speak out about concerns over Covid-19 safety and hygiene measures in meat production plants. The Roscommon TD says that many workers from non-national…

A Mayo family have called for an investigation into why patients suspected of having been infected with Covid-19 were cared for on the same ward as non-Covid patients. It follows the death of Bellacorrick man Jackie Carolan, who was admitted to the hospital…

Fianna Fáil is demanding a Dáil debate on historical sexual abuse in the Irish scouting movement. An internal review commissioned by Scouting Ireland by child safeguarding expert Ian Elliot has found it's hard to determine the full extent of the problem…

A car being driven at 204km/h in a 100km/h zone on the N5 in Mayo shortly after midnight on Wednesday (May 130 was detected by gardai. The gardai pursued and stopped the car. The driver was found in possession of a small quantity of cocaine (subject to…

There are fears contact tracing may not have occurred for Covid-19 patients at one hospital in the country. It's after an unnamed facility only told authorities of around 250 confirmed cases, some from as far back as March, yesterday evening. As a result, all…

The Argentine Ambassador to Ireland Laura Bernal will be laid to rest in Foxford this afternoon. Her funeral Mass will take place in St Michael’s Church in Foxford at 12 noon. The late ambassador died suddenly last month. Due to the Covid-19 restrictions,…

The Department of Agriculture has launched a new app for registering calves online. Calf-Reg is now available free of charge to all herd keepers that have a smart phone. In 2019 over 70% of calves born were registered on the Animal Identification and Movement…

Ballina enjoyed more than 1.5 million euro of an economic boost earlier this year, when the town hosted the “Other Voices” festival. This was the second year in a row that the popular festival, that results in the production of three TV programmes for RTE,…

An online fundraiser for a Mayo man, who was injured in a farm accident last month, has received an overwhelming response. Father of three Patrick McDonnell, a member of staff with Mayo County Council, and a native of Straide who lives now in Castlebar,…

The Taoiseach says he's increasingly confident that Coronavirus restrictions can begin to be unwound from next week. The National Public Health Emergency Team is meeting today and its advice will be considered by cabinet Ministers tomorrow. Leo Varadkar has…

With Government formation talks continuing between Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and the Green Party, a Mayo Councillor says there are a number of red-line issues of importance to this county, and to the region, which should form part of any Programme for…

The HSE is hoping turnaround times for a Covid test will be three days, from next Monday. The Health Executive says it's been working to update its technology to automate results. Latest figures show there are 23,400 confirmed cases here and 1,497 people have…

A fire warning has been issued by Bord na Mona and the Fire Service. The two organisations are warning that, at this time of year, the countryside is exposed to a higher risk of fire. Fire puts the lives of firefighters at risk, as well as causing major…

Ballina enjoyed more than 1.5 million euro of an economic boost earlier this year, when the town hosted the “Other Voices” festival. This was the second year in a row that the popular festival, that results in the production of three TV programmes for RTE,…

A Clare Island fisherman has launched High Court proceedings aimed at stopping the laying of fibre optic cable off the Mayo coast, as part of a multi-million international communication project. James O’Toole has brought a legal challenge against the granting…

A zero VAT rate is needed for the hospitality sector to give businesses hope for when they re-open - that's according to Sligo-Leitrim TD Marian Harkin, who says tourism-related businesses across the region are currently faced with increasing costs, and are…

The childcare plan for healthcare workers has been scrapped due to a lack of providers. The scheme, which was due to be rolled out from Monday, would see childminders go into the homes of healthcare staff at a cost of 90 euro a week per family. However,…

The National Public Health Emergency Team meets this morning, a day earlier than expected, to consider what advice it will give on easing some Covid-19 restrictions from next Monday. They'll also decide their position on people wearing masks in shops and on…

A further ten people with Covid 19 have died in the Republic. It brings the death toll here to 1,497. There are also 159 new confirmed cases - the total now stands at 23,401.

The Taoiseach says re-opening schools and creches could be one of the safest things the government does when Covid 19 restrictions are eased. The health watchdog says it appears children aren't substantially contributing to the spread of coronavirus in their…

Customers can enable The Irish Radioplayer using the Alexa app by saying “Alexa, enable Irish Radioplayer.” Once enabled, customers can start using Irish Radioplayer on demand using just their voice, by saying “Alexa, ask Irish Radioplayer to play Midwest…

Journalists John Waters and Gemma O'Doherty have been refused permission to challenge the emergency legislation that introduced the Covid-19 restrictions. They wanted the High Court to allow them to bring a judicial review, as part of an attempt to have the…

A Mayo TD has welcomed the Government's new "Tie-up" scheme for fishermen, to help address their loss of income during the Covid-19 pandemic, but has called on Minister Michael Creed to consider backdating the scheme to the start of this month. The Covid-19…

Plans are being finalised in Foxford for the funeral on Friday of Ambassador Laura Bernal, the Argentine Ambassador to Ireland. Since taking up the position in March 2016, Ambassador Bernal, who passed away in Dublin two weeks ago, had visited Foxford a…

Calls are being made to ensure that Pieta House in Tuam is retained as a fully operative centre, and not downgraded. Galway East TD and Minister for Rural Affairs Sean Canney says the executive of Pieta House is proposing to downgrade 9 of its existing 15…

As demand for ventilators increases during the Covid-19 pandemic, staff at the GMIT School of Engineering have designed and developed a new type of emergency mechanical ventilator that can be produced rapidly and inexpensively to assist the medical…

Applications are now open for a €35 million Covid-19 Stability Fund, which will provide one-off grant aid to organisations providing critical services for the most vulnerable in society. The Minister for Rural & Community Development Michael Ring is urging…

At least 169 people have been waiting at least a year to be seen by the HSE's National Counselling Service. All of those waiting over a year are based in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon. The HSE figures, released under the Freedom of Information Act, reveal there…

The Chief Medical Officer says there are encouraging signs the country WILL be in a position to start easing the lockdown next week. Phase one of the government's plan is due to begin on Monday, which includes the resumption of outdoor work and the reopening…

There have been a further 24 deaths here due to Covid-19, while another 107 cases of the virus have also been confirmed. It means the total death toll in the Republic now stands at 1,488. There are also 23,242 total confirmed cases.

A 52-year-old Mayo man who groomed a 16-year-old boy before engaging in sexual acts with him has been given a two-and-a-half year prison sentence. Patrick Lynn of Greenhills Estate, Ballina admitted two charges of defilement of a child under the age of 17…

A nursing home in Roscommon has confirmed a high number of Covid-19 cases among its residents and staff. 22 residents and 16 staff at the Cloverhill Nursing Home have tested positive for the virus following recent tests. The Cloverhill nursing home is run by…

The death has taken place of well-known artist Cecil Maguire, at the age of 90. A native of Lurgan in Co Armagh, he spent much of his time in the West of Ireland, and painted the Connemara landscape while living in the Roundstone area. Cecil Maguire studied…

Rents nationally fell by just over 2% last month, as Covid-19 takes its toll. That's according to a new report from housing website Daft.ie, which says this is the largest monthly decrease in over 11 years. The report shows that, in the year to December 2019,…

Planning permission is being sought for an Aldi store in Ballina. The German company has applied to Mayo County Council for permission to demolish the former Deanwood Hotel, and construct a single-storey discount foodstore on the site. The plan also provides…

A Westport man was instrumental in the development of a coating effective at treating coronavirus on surfaces. A Global testing company confirmed that surface-coating technology developed by Irish company Kastus is effective against coronavirus. The…

The doors of solicitor’s practices may be closed since the start of the pandemic lockdown, but solicitors across the region are continuing to provide services to clients. Senior Vice President of the Law Society, Castlebar based James Cahill, has been telling…

Up to 40 new jobs are set to be created at the former Volex plant on the Breaffy Road, Castlebar, a building in the ownership of Mayo County Council for the past eight years. The Walsh Group, Kimaine Road, Ballinrobe, is to lease two thirds (66%) of the floor…

A further 15 patients with coronavirus in the Republic have died, bringing the the total death toll to 1,467, while there are now over 23,000 confirmed cases of the virus here. However, for the second day in a row there were no new confirmed cases of Covid-19…

Ryanair says it plans to return to 40% of normal flight schedules from Wednesday July 1st, subject to government restrictions being lifted. The airline will operate a daily flight schedule of almost 1,000 flights, restoring 90% of its pre-Covid-19 route…

Irish Water is urging people to conserve water, as domestic water usage has increased by an average of 20% in homes across the region since the Covid-19 restrictions came into force. With more people staying at home, households are using an additional 24…

The annual Famine Walk in Louisburg is being postponed due to the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions. Hundreds of people take part every year in the walk, organised by peace and justice organisation Afri. Lead organiser Joe Murray says the organisers had to…

A woman was rescued from Croagh Patrick on Sunday afternoon last. Mayo Mountain Rescue were tasked to assist a female casualty on the mountain shortly before 4pm on Sunday. She had sustained a head injury in a fall. A first response team from Mayo Mountain…

Galway Councillor James Charity has condemned the blockage of a national main road into Galway City yesterday evening in an apparent protest against Garda checkpoints in the area. A video which was sent to Cllr. Charity had been circulated on social media…

After ten years as the chief executive of Mayo County Council Peter Hynes announced his retirement yesterday evening at the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council. An interim CEO is being appointed until the position is advertised. Peter Duggan, who is…

A further 15 deaths have been confirmed in Ireland due to Covid-19. 139 additional cases have also been recorded. The death toll in the Republic now stands at 1,467 while there are 23,135 total confirmed cases.

There are a number of issues surrounding the plans for this year's Leaving Cert students that need to be clarified by the Department of Education in the coming days. That's according to the Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland, who says they have a…

With the silage season underway, the Irish Farmers Association and the Road Safety Authority are making a joint appeal to those driving farm machinery and vulnerable road users to share the road safely. Both organisations are urging farming contractors, who…

The May monthly meeting of Mayo County Council is underway this afternoon at St Mary's Hall, on the GMIT Mayo campus. The council meeting was moved to the larger facility to allow for social distancing. At the start of the meeting this afternoon, sympathies…

Gardai have made a number of seizures in recent days in the Claremorris and Swinford areas. Members of the Claremorris Community Engagement team discovered drugs, with an estimated value of €1,750, in undergrowth at Claremount in the town on Friday.…

Ingredients 45ml/3 tbsp butter, melted 30ml/ 2 tbsp soft brown sugar 4 Large or medium bananas 2.5ml/half tbsp. cinnamon or spice (mixed) Pancake Batter Ingredients 113g/4oz flour 275ml/10fl oz/half pt milk Pinch of salt 1 egg 14g/half oz butter melted…

The Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI) says there's an urgent need for safeguards to protect teachers from canvassing on behalf of Leaving Cert students. The decision to cancel this year's exams and replace them with predicted grades has been supported by the…

The funeral will take place in Foxford next Friday of Ambassador Laura Bernal, the Argentine Ambassador to Ireland. Ambassador Bernal passed away in Dublin two weeks ago. She had previously worked in the Argentine Embassies in Colombia, Portugal and Greeace,…

The monthly meeting of Mayo County Council is being held in St. Mary’s Hall on the Castlebar campus of GMIT this afternoon. The location has been selected to ensure that the council meeting can go ahead and at the same time adhere to Covid 19 social…

History will record that as a state we 'spectacularly failed the nursing home sector' during the pandemic. That’s the view of Sligo Leitrim TD Marc MacSharry The Fianna Fail TD, who was commenting on the high mortality rates in nursing home settings from the…

Siptu says between 15-hundred and two thousand health workers who signed up to be "On Call for Ireland" were handed agency contracts with inferior terms and conditions. The trade union says it's been contacted by a number of workers hired under the scheme. It…

The HSE says surgeons will now be able to carry out some non-emergency operations that were suspended because of the pandemic. Nationally twelve more people being treated for Covid-19 have died, and 236 more people have tested positive over the past 24 hours.…

Government talks will continue between Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party this morning. The negotiating teams from all three parties will hold discussions, but policies on carbon emissions remain a sticking point. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have also…

Over the weekend gardaí from Ballina Community Engagement Area were patrolling the Belleek area to encourage compliance with HSE Ireland Guidelines when they stopped and spoke with a motorist who had no Insurance, Tax or NCT. The vehicle was seized. The…

This year's Claremorris Agricultural Show due to be held on August Bank Holiday Sunday has been cancelled due to the current situation regarding COVID-19. The Show which celebrated its centenary in 2018 is regarded as one of the leading events of its type in…

A further 12 Covid-19 deaths in Ireland have been confirmed by health officials. This brings the death toll from the virus here to 1,458. A further 236 cases have also been confirmed, bringing the total number of cases here to 22,996. In Mayo the total number…

With fewer cars on the roads due to the Covid-19 lockdown, more drivers are speeding. That's according to Mayo County Council's Road Safety Office, which says an increase in speeding, coupled with more cyclists and pedestrians on roads, is a recipe for…

Sligo-Leitrim Independent TD Marian Harkin says she is willing to engage with a grand coalition to help provide solutions for the future of agriculture across the region. It comes as Green Party TD Ossain Smyth told The Sunday Times that Harkin,…

The HSE says it's still on target to deliver 100,000 tests per week from May 18th. It says the average wait time for a result is now 2.4 days and that plans are being put in place to ramp up testing and contact tracing. All staff and residents in the…

The Irish Hairdressers Federation says the Government's return to work protocols for businesses are a move in the right direction. It includes plans for hand-washing etiquette and handshake bans. Hairdressers are due to open their doors again on the 20th of…

Trade Union Siptu says meat processors and dairy plants should take workers' temperatures at the factory gate. The government's return-to-work protocols published yesterday already includes testing workers to see if they're feverish -- but Siptu says these…

People Before Profit TD Bríd Smith says people in direct provision have been "abjectly failed and endangered" because of the state's response to Covid-19. Residents at an accomodation centre in Kerry were told more people had been infected there because…

The Irish Small and Medium Enterprise Association says supports for businesses during Covid-19 are 'pretty inadequate'. The business group says they need a properly-funded liquidity plan to reopen after being shut during the pandemic. It's welcoming the…

Another 18 people with Covid-19 died yesterday, along with the diagnosis of 219 confirmed cases of the virus. It means the total death toll now stands at close to 1,500. There are now almost 28,000 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the Republic of Ireland. Mayo…

The ASTI is joining the TUI in engaging with the calculated grades system for students, which will replace this year's Leaving Cert. It's after lengthy talks of the Association of Secondary Teachers of Ireland late last night. The ASTI says it wants students…

Sligo-Leitrim Fianna Fail TD Marc MacSharry has rejected suggestions by Fine Gael politicians that Leo Varadkar should get the first stint as Taoiseach in a coalition deal involving the two parties. Fine Gael TDs and senators, including ministers, are pushing…

Business that don't implement guidelines on re-opening could face closure by the HSA. Logs of workers in offices will need to be kept to help contact tracing, while each workplace will need a plan if a case of Covid-19 is detected. No handshaking is to be…

There's been a further fall in the number of people being admitted to intensive care with Covid-19. 72 patients are being treated in ICUs today - down from 99 this day last week. The death toll in the Republic now stands at 1,429. Professor Catherine…

A Mayo Secondary School teacher has expressed concerns that students who sit the Leaving Cert written exams this year will be locked out of third level education for a year. The exams have been cancelled and replaced with calculated grades, which will be…

The Teachers Union of Ireland has decided to engage with the system of calculated grades, which will replace this year's Leaving Cert. The written exams have been cancelled this summer and students will get a calculated grade instead, estimated by their…

The death has taken place of Canon JJ Cribben - parish priest of Milltown, Co Galway and a former Mayo footballer. Fr JJ - a native of Ballyhaunis - passed away yesterday after battling illness for some time, and will be laid to rest tomorrow - 50 years to…

The HSE is to issue guidance to meat processing plants to prevent the further spread of coronavirus. There are now 10 clusters in factories across the country - accounting for 566 cases. The death toll from Covid-19 in the Republic now stands at 1,429, after…

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following an incident that occurred at approximately 12:20pm on Thursday 30th April at Market Square, Castlebar, County Mayo. A female pedestrian was injured following a road traffic collision with a car. The woman, in her…

Two thirds of people who have died with Covid-19 have been aged 80 years or older. The death toll from the virus stands at 1,429, after a further 27 people died. Of the total deaths, 956 occurred in the 80 plus age category. Overall, the number of confirmed…

Travel Agents are to be given the option of providing a credit note to customers in lieu of refunds. The measure will be underwritten by the state and will not be applicable to airlines. The move was agreed at cabinet today and is in addition to exiting…

Mayo County Council will hold the May monthly meeting of the authority at a larger venue to meet Covid 19 social distancing requirements. It will take place at Mayo GMIT Campus, Castlebar, on Monday next at 2pm. The larger space will allow more elected…

Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring has today announced the launch of a €40 million package of supports for Community and Voluntary Organisations, Charities and Social Enterprises. The €40 million funding package is being made available…

The Leaving Cert written exams this summer have been cancelled. Students will instead get a predicted grade or have the option to sit the tests at a later date. Teachers will provide a score for each subject and it'll have to be approved by the school…

The Leaving Cert written exams this summer have been cancelled. Students will have the option to sit them at a later date or accept a predicted grade. Teachers will provide a score for each subject and it'll have to be approved by the school principal. The…

The number of Mayo people who travelled to Cheltenham in March, compared to Galway residents, may be one of the reasons that so many people in Mayo have tested positive for Covid-19, compared to people in Galway. That was a view expressed by HSE West…

This year's National Ploughing Championship has been cancelled. Europe's biggest outdoor event was due to take place in County Carlow from September 15th to 17th but it has been called off due to Covid-19. Organisers say that they still hope that there will…

The council of Claremorris Golf Club are appealing for public assistance following an incident of vandalism on course equipment earlier this month. A mini digger and the course's irrigation system were damaged in the incident. Entry was gained to the pump…

Gardaí have arrested a man in connection with the seizure of more than €26,000 worth of suspected cannabis plants in Athenry Co Galway on Wednesday. Gardaí from the Divisional Drugs Unit in Galway conducted a search of a house in Athenry under warrant at…

Cabinet ministers are set to approve an alternative plan for the Leaving Cert exams this morning. It's understood the examinations will be cancelled and replaced with a system of predictive grades. The government had been trying to go ahead with the Leaving…

A Castlebar councillor is refusing to accept Irish Rail’s stance that it has no plans to automate the notorious Kilnageere railway crossing, located a few kilometres outside the county town. Fine Gael councillor Cyril Burke says the community that use this…

A business group is calling for the next programme for government to include funding for local authorities to help kickstart economies in towns and villages across the country. Businesses on the west coast have been hit the hardest due to the Covid-19…

Farmers received up to 123 million euro in social-welfare payments last year. Over 9,100 people were paid the money under the Farm Assist or Rural Social Schemes. Farm Assist is a means-tested payment for low-income farmers, paid by the Department of Social…

29 more people with Covid 19 died in the Republic of Ireland yesterday. The death toll here now stands at 1,403. 137 new cases were also detected, with the total now standing at 22,385. The totals across the regions sees Mayo with 514 confirmed cases of the…

Irish Water and Mayo County Council are advising customers in Ballina - in Pearse Street, Humbert Street, Dillon Terrace, Castle Road, Nally Street, the areas surrounding Beleek, Bachelors Walk, Arbuckle Row and Emmett Street that their water supply will been…

The neighbours, family and friends of a Castlebar man in his eighties came out this afternoon to welcome him home after successfully battling Covid-19. Billy Waldron of Greenfield, Pontoon Road, was discharged this afternoon from Mayo University Hospital…

Negotiations on a programme for government will formally get underway this evening. The Green Party is meeting Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil to start putting together a document to form a coalition government. Over the last number of weeks Fianna Fail and Fine…

The organisers of the National Ploughing Championships are meeting this week to discuss whether this year's event can go ahead. The event's scheduled for mid-September, but is in doubt because of the coronavirus crisis. Almost 300,000 people attended last…

Drive-by confessions and outdoor masses could be on the cards as the Catholic Church charts its way out of Covid-19 lockdown. These are in addition to bringing services to hundreds of thousands of people who are accessing prayer and Masses online since the…

Mayo TD Alan Dillon is calling for all healthcare workers in acute hospitals to be routinely tested for Covid-19. The Fine Gael TD says the present current national guidelines do not require healthcare workers in acute hospitals to be tested, unless they…

The parents of a Leaving Cert student in Ballyhaunis have raised questions over the circumstances surrounding her death two weeks ago at Mayo University Hospital. 17-year old Sally Maaz, a member of the Syrian community in Ballyhaunis who was born with a…

NUI Galway has reversed its controversial decision to raise the rent of on campus student accommodation by 4 per cent for the coming academic year. The U-turn comes about following several months of protests and actions by students and the NUIG Students…

Former Galway All-Ireland winner and a stalwart member of Oughterard GAA club, Kieran O'Sullivan passed away earlier this week after an illness. The late Kieran was a member of the Galway minor football team which won the All-Ireland championship title in…

Work is due to resume after the 18th May on the N5 road from Westport to Turlough - the largest Government investment project ever in Co Mayo. That's according to Castlebar-based FG Councillor Cyril Burke. Councillor Burke says work on the major construction…

The Junior Minister for Tourism says he supports a 0% Vat rate for the hospitality sector to help them through Covid-19. Brendan Griffin told the Dáil yesterday that "a speedy recovery for the tourist industry is unlikely". He said that, in the space of a few…

The State's chief medical officer says the country isn't yet in a position to ease some Covid-19 restrictions on 18th May. 1,375 people with the virus have died after a further 37 fatalities were confirmed last night, while there are now 22,248 diagnosed…

Gardaí in Mayo have arrested a man, who was sought in connection with multiple theft offences across the country, who they stopped at a checkpoint at Newpark in Swinford on Saturday May 2. At 5.15pm Saturday evening two members of the Mayo Roads Policing Unit…

Gardaí recovered drugs with an estimated street value of €14,000 during a search of a property in the Ballyhaunis area, last weekend. Members of the Divisional Drugs Taskforce carried out a search at a private home and surrounding sheds and farm lands in the…

A red forest fire warning is currently in place across Ireland. The Department of Agriculture says under extreme fire risk conditions, fires will start and spread easily with real threats to nature, property and life. The alert will remain in place until…

20 percent of pharmacies have had to lay off staff in the past five weeks and a further 40 percent say they will be forced to lay off more staff shortly, if the government fails to deliver on the promise it made three weeks ago to pharmacists. These figures…

An Achill publican does not believe it will be feasible for many pubs in rural Ireland to reopen in June, under proposals being put forward by representatives of the pub trade. The Vintners Federation of Ireland and the Licensed Vintners Association are…

Hospitals have reported a further reduction in the number of patients admitted with confirmed and suspected cases of Covid-19. There are now a total of 902 patients in hospitals with either confirmed or suspected coronavirus. The hospitals with the most…

The grandson of Mayo emigrants has been sworn into office as the new US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland. Mick Mulvaney, the former acting Chief of Staff at the White House, was sworn-in in a virtual ceremony on Friday, via FaceTime. The US President Donald…

It will be the first week in June before any decision can be taken as to whether or not the annual Reek Sunday pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick will go ahead on the last Sunday in July this year. That’s according to local administrator in Westport, Fr Charlie…

The Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health says the country will be re-opened in a cautious and conservative manner, to try prevent further Covid-19 restrictions later this year. 1,339 people with the virus have died, after a further 23 fatalities…

Fire crews have spent much of the night battling a blaze in Belcarra, outside Castlebar. The fire broke out yesterday evening at Bridgemount House - a historic two-storey property that was once the home of the late Dame Judy Coyne. She and her husband founded…

The Air Accident Investigation Unit has published its final report into an accident at Sligo Airport almost two years ago. On 5th August 2018, the Piper fixed wing aircraft with the pilot and one passenger on board landed at Sligo Airport after flying from…

The Government is denying any divisions with the National Public Health Emergency Team over coronavirus restrictions. A phased roadmap has been devised to slowly ease us out of lockdown, with some media reports over the weekend saying the Government and the…

Gardai have used the Covid 19 enforcement powers 139 times since they were introduced. There was also 52 incidents of spitting or coughing at officers, while anti-spit guards had to be used 28 times over a 4 week period. Meanwhile, there were 1,172 incidents…

Paul Kirwan, a horticulturalist and nature enthusiast based in Mayo recently filmed his 2k woodland walk. Paul says: "I try to encourage people to slow down, breath and take notice of their surroundings in ways that they have never had the opportunity to do…

A five year old Ballinrobe boy has raised over €3,500 for Western Care Daniel Flannery undertook a 10km cycle for the charity his grandmother volunteered with for over four decades on Sunday morning. Almost a year after getting the stabilisers removed from…

A wedding and funeral professional singer based in Castlebar, who’s regular work is hugely impacted by the present Covid-19 restrictions, has decided to voluntarily bring her talents to locked-down residents of nursing homes across the county. Brenda Grealis…

Pubs may be allowed to open earlier than planned if they can stick to strict social-distancing rules. Public houses are not due to reopen until August 10th, but this may be brought forward to the end of June. Two representative groups - the Licensed Vintners…

A man is due in court later this week charged in connection with the discovery of €9,000 worth of cocaine at a Garda checkpoint in Co Galway over the weekend. As part of Operation Fanacht, to ensure people are abiding by the Covid-19 restrictions, Gardai…

Mayo County Council needs to urgently make adjustments to paving’s, streetscapes, traffic flow, public areas and car parking, to facilitate social distancing and pedestrian movement to best position businesses in Mayo to open swiftly once restrictions are…

The National Public Health Emergency Team will meet this morning to review the latest situation with Covid-19. New figures show that the number of people admitted to hospital with confirmed, or suspected Covid-19, has increased slightly to 927. The hospitals…

From today people are allowed to travel up to 5 kilometres from home to exercise. While those who are cocooning are advised that they can go for a short walk if they avoid all contact with others. Ireland will then begin to reopen on May 18 and will continue…

Gardaí in Galway arrested and charged a man following the taking of a vehicle that occurred in the Beal Srutha area of the city on Sunday morning last at approximately 11:30am. The driver of the vehicle reported that while sitting in his car, after shopping,…

Retail businesses in Mayo are being encouraged to apply for newly available funding to support them to enhance their digital capability. Mayo Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon says Minister Humphreys has announced that applications are now open for the new Enterprise…

Due to Covid19 restrictions on social distancing, only urgent matters will be dealt with at the two-week sitting of the Circuit Criminal Court which begins in Castlebar today (Tuesday, May 5) and continues until Friday, May 15. This means that no trials will…

19 more covid-19 patients have died and 330 new cases have been confirmed this evening. There have now been a total of 1,303 Covid-19 related deaths here. There have also been 330 additional new cases of the coronavirus diagnosed, bringing the number of…

The HSE is preparing a plan on how private hospitals can do urgent non-Covid procedures. More than 950 patients in the country's hospitals have the disease or are suspected of having it, while just under 100 people were in ICUs this morning. Testing meanwhile…

Losing a loved one at any time is difficult but even more so now with the travel restrictions and social distancing in place. One West of Ireland based company is trying to make the whole process easier for families by filming the entire service. Studiorove…

Mayo Gardaí detained a woman from a car that was making an unnecessary 400km round trip as there was a bench warrant out for her arrest. The woman, aged in her thirties was identified by Gardaí as having an outstanding warrant against her. She was arrested…

The Finance Minister says the government is to consider the future of supports for workers impacted by Covid-19. Pascal Donohoe says the unemployment payment and wage subsidy scheme will be looked at in the next few weeks. Yesterday Cabinet approved supports…

The HSE says people tested for Covid 19 should get a result within 48 hours by the middle of this month. It's aiming to ramp up testing to 100 thousand a week from the 18th of May. There's been criticism after some people had to wait weeks for a test result…

Marts can reopen on a limited basis from the 8th of June at the earliest. Mart inspections took place this week, ahead of being given the green light to resume sales under the governments road map to reopen the country. Meanwhile, Ireland's Future has…

Irish Water and Galway County Council has restored water to approximately 800 houses in Galway following a burst water main yesterday evening. The areas affected by the unplanned outage were Abbert, Attymon, Colemanstown, Kiltullagh, Carrabane and the…

More people want Leo Varadkar as the new Taoiseach rather than Micháel Martin, according to a new opinion poll. The Red C survey for the Business Post shows 39 percent prefer the Fine Gael leader in any coalition, compared with 14 percent for his Fianna Fail…

There's a call for more clarity from government over whether the Leaving Cert will go ahead or not. People Before Profit's the latest party suggesting it should be cancelled. It follows a similar call from Fianna Fail, while Sinn Fein's seeking more detail on…

There's been a further fall in the number of people being treated with Covid 19 in intensive care units. The latest figure is 98 - only the second time it's been less than 100 in the last month. Dr Mary Favier, President of the Irish College of GPs, says the…

An update on testing and residential care facilities is expected later as part of the HSE's weekly briefing on Covid-19. It comes as the death toll here has reached 1,286, after a further 25 were announced yesterday. There are 343 new confirmed cases of Covid…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been informed that a total of 25 people with COVID-19 have died. There have now been a total 1,286* COVID-19 related deaths in Ireland. As of 11am Saturday 2 May, the HPSC has been notified of 343 new…