Mayo North Tourism has launched its 2022 membership drive, with businesses of all types from Ballina and the surrounding areas encouraged to contribute towards a marketing and promotion fund for North Mayo, as the local tourism industry looks towards recovery…

Fáilte Ireland has launched a new plan that is aimed at driving and sustaining tourism in West Mayo area. The Clew Bay Destination and Experience Development Plan’s goal is to extend the tourism season and spread business across all parts of the region over…

The chair of the South African Medical Association says travel restrictions in response to the new Covid variant are not justified. On Friday the EU recommended additional rules for passengers arriving from southern Africa and other countries affected by the…

A new poll has revealed that 6 out of 10 people in the Republic would opt for a United Ireland if a vote was held today. But the poll in the Business Post shows a large majority of people would be unwilling to pay more taxes, change the flag or the national…

Over 440 premises are without power in Enniscrone this afternoon, according to the ESB Powercheck App. The fault was reported at approximately 12:15pm and follows the restoration of power to close around 200 homes in the area this morning. It's expected that…

The Department of Health has reported 3,735 new cases of Covid-19. 566 people are currently in hospital with the virus - an increase of 30 on yesterday's figure. 117 people are being treated in ICU, a decrease of 1 on yesterday. The figures come as officials…

There is close to 200 ESB customers without power this morning in the Enniscrone area. ESB say they are working to repair the fault and hope to have it restored by 12 noon today.

Mica-affected homeowners are set to get a 100pc grant for remediation works, up to 420,000 euro. The fresh proposals are detailed in the Sunday Independent, and the plan would cost the state about 2.2billion euro. The paper reports Minister Darragh O'Brien's…

Vaccinations remain our best defence against infection with Covid-19 according to a Health Systems Professor at DCU. Anthony Staines says the world was warned that unless vaccinations were provided to poorer countries, dangerous mutations would occur. He was…

The Department of Foreign Affairs says it stands ready to provide consular assistance to Irish citizens stranded in Southern Africa. Andrea Manning is a British citizen who has been living in Moycullen in County Galway for over ten years. She made the journey…

Gardaí are investigating a burglary that occurred at a property in Hollymount yesterday morning. It is understood that the incident occurred between 8.30am and 11.30am. No arrests have been made to date. Investigations are ongoing. No arrests have been made…

Two cases of the new variant of coronavirus have been discovered in the UK. Health Secretary Sajid Javid also says four more countries in Africa have been added to Britain's travel red list. They include Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Angola. Mr Javid gave…

The Archdiocese of Tuam is saddened at the loss of two priests who are being laid to rest this weekend. That’s according to the Archbishop of Tuam Dr Michael Neary, who has been paying tributes following the passing of Fr Patrick O’Brien and SMA priest Father…

The Department of Health has reported an additional 4,791 cases of Covid 19 today. There's currently 536 patients in hospital, a drop of 35 on yesterday's figures. While 118 patients are receiving treatment in ICU, there's no change on yesterday's figure.

Northern counties could see a dusting of snow on high ground today. Storm Arwen's brought high winds and frosty air - with Mayo, Sligo and Donegal among the counties worst affected. A number of homes are without power across the region as the high winds…

Gardaí attended the scene of a single vehicle collision on the Loughlynn to Castlerea road this morning. The crash occurred along the R325 at approximately 8am. No injuries were reported during the course of the incident. Midwest News understands that the…

Gardaí and local fire crews are currently at the scene of a fire at the former Belmont Hotel in Knock. Authorities were alerted to the incident at 7am this morning after a member of the public raised the alarm. Midwest News understands that the blaze is under…

The Green Party Convention is being fully live-streamed today as the party celebrates 40 years in Ireland. It's also marking another key milestone, with the introduction of the most ambitious Climate Action plan in the history of the State. Minister of State…

A consultant thinks it's important anyone over 60 or those with impaired immunity come forward to get a booster appointment. Over 666,000 boosters have been given out so far, to over-60s, healthcare workers and those with compromised immune systems. It comes…

Pfizer and BioNTech is among the vaccine manufacturers insisting they'll be able to quickly adapt their jabs within 100 days if the Omicron variant spreads. Data suggests the new strain - first identified in South Africa - brings an increased risk of…

People are being advised to avoid travel to seven countries in southern Africa - and Irish residents already there, are being told to come home. It's after the World Health Organisation declared the new Covid strain 'Omicron' a 'variant of concern'. The…

The World Health Organisation has classified the new covid strain from Southern Africa as a 'variant of concern'.It says this strain which has been named 'Omicron' has a large number of mutations, some of which are concerning.It says preliminary evidence…

4,620 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed this evening. 571 patients are in hospital with the virus, with 118 in intensive care.

School buses for second level students are returning to 100 per cent capacity. Bus Éireann says other measures to prevent the spread of the virus will remain, including pre-assigned seating and mask-wearing. School transport for post-primary level has been…

Funeral arrangements have been announced for former District Court Judge John Neilan Junior. The Roscommon town native served on the Midlands Circuit for many years before his retirement in 2010. He practiced as a solicitor in Roscommon town before being…

A north Mayo teenager has been named as the Netwatch Connacht Young Carer of the Year at an awards ceremony held in The Westin Hotel in Dublin yesterday. 13-year-old Zoe Gilmartin from Bonniconlon received the prestigious recognition for going above and…

€18 thousand worth of cocaine and cannabis was seized near Loughrea, last night. Gardaí attached to the Galway Divisional Drugs Unit assisted by the Western Regional Support Unit stopped a vehicle travelling on the M6 near Loughrea shortly before 7.30pm…

700 jobs have been announced as part of plans to expand and redevelop Penneys stores. The fashion retailer is investing 250 million euro over the next decade. Penneys has announced it's to create 600 jobs in its stores across the country, over the next 3…

The Mayo Vaccination Centre at Breaffy House Resort, Castlebar will be holding walk-in booster vaccination clinics at specific times over the coming days for healthcare workers and people aged 60 to 69 who have reached an interval of at least 152 days since…

Sancta Maria College in Louisburgh have won the Erasmus+ Schools Week video competition. Coordinated by Léargas, Erasmus+ Schools Week takes place from 22nd to 26th November. The week celebrates all primary and post-primary schools involved in Erasmus+ by…

Snow is expected to fall in parts of the country today due to Storm Arwen. There will also be strong winds, with yellow wind warnings for Mayo, Sligo and Donegal from 3pm. It will bring winds of up to 110 kilometres per hour and there's a possibility of…

What’s the Scéal? is a series of storytelling events that celebrates this ancient tradition and seeks to highlight the role of storytellers in Ireland today. To this end the National Museum of Ireland and Poetry Ireland are delighted to once again partner up…

The National Immunisation Advisory Committee has recommended Covid booster vaccines for everyone over the age of 16. The rollout will start with pregnant women and then descend by age, starting with those aged 40 to 49 before continuing to the 16-39 cohort.…

The Christmas lights in Mayo’s County town will be officially switched on this evening. The lights will be turned on by the Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council Martin McLoughlin on Market Square in Castlebar this evening at 5pm. The public are reminded that…

The RNLI is urging people to take extra care over the coming days as strong winds and large seas are expected during Storm Arwen. With high winds and large seas anticipated today and tomorrow, the RNLI is urging people to exercise extreme caution if visiting…

Gardaí in Roscommon have seized €8,000 worth of suspected cocaine and cannabis herb under Operation Tara following a search in Athleague Co Roscommon yesterday. Two men, one in his mid- 50s and the other in his late 20s, were arrested at scene and have since…

Westport has the highest incidence rate of Covid-19 in Mayo. A total of 282 cases was confirmed in the Westport Electoral area from November 9th until November 22nd leaving it with an incidence rate of 1534.4. There were for 416 cases during this period in…

The Department of Health has, in recent days, been monitoring the emergence of a new variant (B.1.1.529), of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. This variant has been identified in a number of countries in southern Africa and in Hong Kong. The World…

Mayo County Council have committed to carrying out a village Enhancement Scheme in the village of Cross. That's according to Fianna Fail Councillor Damien Ryan, who says council management and architects will proceed with the project once a similar one is…

Strong winds and snow are on the cards in parts of the country today due to Storm Arwen. Met Eireann's issued status yellow wind warnings for Donegal, Sligo and Mayo which kick in at 3pm. Alan O'Reilly from Carlow Weather says it's going to be cold.

Children over the age of nine are to be asked to wear masks in school, in shops and on public transport. NPHET has also advised against indoor community gatherings for under 12s. NPHET has recommended against sleepovers, indoor playdates, pantos, nativity…

The number of people in hospital with Covid-19 has dropped by roughly 10 percent in the past week. 556 people were in public hospitals with the virus last night, down from 611 at the same stage last Thursday. It comes as a further 4,764 new cases have been…

4,764 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed this evening. 598 patients are in hospital with the virus - down 13 from yesterday - while the ICU figure is down six, to 126. The chief medical officer, Tony Holohan, says the incidence of Covid-19 remains…

Almost 6,000 HSE staff are absent from work due to Covid-19. The Executive says it's a big concern for the health service, and they haven't seen this level of absence since late January. Chief executive Paul Reid has said it's obvious people are responding to…

There is a chance of some snow in parts of the country tomorrow as Storm Arwen hits Ireland. Status yellow warnings come into effect for Donegal, Mayo and Sligo at 3pm tomorrow. Met Eireann says gusts of up to 110 kilometres an hour can be expected.

Almost 4,500 drivers have been arrested for drink driving so far this year, with some found to be four times over the legal limit. Gardai and the RSA are encouraging drivers to act responsibly this Christmas and New Year as part of their annual road safety…

Walk-in Covid vaccination centres for booster jabs will open in the coming days. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly says they'll be for healthcare workers and people aged between 60 and 69. Over 666,000 people have received a booster or third dose so far.…

Ireland Active, the National Health and Leisure Body, has awarded the Leisure Complex at Lough Lannagh, Castlebar the highest possible National Quality Standard Award for the second year in a row. The Outstanding Standard Award is the result of a thorough…

18 people died from Covid-19 in the week that ended on Tuesday. This includes only patients who actually passed away during this period. The average age of those who died was 63. Separate figures show 52 per cent of Covid deaths since April have been among…

As winter takes hold Roscommon University Hospital is reminding people that their Injury Unit is open every day of the year to treat a wide range of injuries which are non-life or limb threatening, as an alternative to visiting an emergency department. The…

The European Medicines Agency has approved a Covid-19 vaccine for children. It's given the green light to Pfizer to allow reduced doses in 5 to 11 year olds. The National Immunisation Advisory Committee will now consider the decision for Ireland.

Six working groups comprising of 18 volunteers have been established to progress the newly founded Digital Ballinrobe organisation, which aims to help the town to capitalise on the unique post Covid-19 economic opportunities presented by digitalisation and…

Experts who have been tracking the effectiveness of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine have found that the risk of Covid infection increases the longer it is since people had a second dose. The study backs up the need for booster doses to prevent people suffering…

The need for a permit to fish on the River Suck has been abolished. It’s very welcome news, according to Roscommon County Councillor, Anthony Waldron. The Ballintubber-based Councillor had been to the fore in a campaign to have the 45 euro permit abolished on…

The number of Covid patients in hospitals nationally has dropped below 600 for the first time in 11 days. The figure has fallen to 598 this morning - which is 13 less than yesterday. 66 Covid patients are in the Mater Hospital in Dublin - the highest in the…

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána have called on drivers to act responsibly and to not be tempted to drink and drive this Christmas and New Year period. This year’s Christmas and New Year road safety appeal was launched at An Garda…

The hunt is on to recruit over 5,000 enumerators for Census 2022. They're needed to work for 10 weeks next year delivering and collecting around 2.2 million forms from every home in the country. Enumerators can earn € 3,200 working part time, visiting around…

Former President, Ballina native Mary Robinson is to be honoured at this year’s EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, which take place this evening. Ms Robinson has been chosen as the recipient of this year’s special recognition award for “her dedication to…

The hospitality industry is taking the brunt of the latest Covid 19 restrictions, with many restaurants and hotels experiencing record cancellations over the past week. Mayo Fianna Fail Deputy Dara Calleary raised the plight of the industry in the Dail. He…

The European Medicines Agency's meeting today to discuss authorising the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine for children ages five to 11. However it's unclear if a decision on its use will be made today. The US began rolling out the vaccine for young children…

NPHET will consider whether children should wear masks in primary schools when it meets later this morning. It comes as nearly one in every hundred children tested positive for Covid-19 last week. 5,375 contracted the virus, according to the latest Health…

An Taisce has assembled for the fifth time what it determines to be the country’s Top 10 Most-at-Risk Buildings. The only building in Connaught listed is Castle MacGarret, Claremorris, county Mayo An Taisce say they are all buildings of importance, both…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 3,893 new confirmed cases of COVID-19. As of 8am today, 611 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of whom 132 are in ICU. There has been a total of 5,652 deaths related to COVID-19 notified in…

The Housing Minister says work on the Mica redress scheme is almost finished, and he hopes to bring it to cabinet next week. Ministers were due to consider proposals yesterday for compensating homeowners affected by the defective blocks. But it was delayed…

The HSE's winter plan will see hospital admissions avoided unless absolutely necessary. In the past month, a thousand elective surgeries have been cancelled as hospitals deal with a fourth Covid surge. Head of the HSE, Paul Reid, told an Oireachtas committee…

Mourners at the funeral Mass today (Wednesday) for Ambrose Blaine, the Mayo pilot who died in a biking accident in Mexico earlier this month were told of the loss of “a man with a huge heart, a madman, a loveable rogue who lived his life on high octane”. Anne…

As covid numbers continue to surge, and people tend to acquire general cold and flu symptoms over the winter months, it becomes increasingly difficult for people to know what they should do on any given day that they feel a bit of a head cold , a sore throat…

The death has taken place of former Mayo county councillor Jimmy Glacken, of Carracrum, Bonniconlon. He was co-opted on to Mayo County Council and served as a Fianna Fail councillor from 1987 to 1991. He was known as a voice for his community, the farming…

Antigen testing will be introduced in schools on Monday, the Education Minister has confirmed. Norma Foley says it'll be operational from the 29th, and guidance will be made available to schools and parents this week. Meanwhile unions and the department are…

Given that consumers have become more comfortable shopping online and given rising COVID-19 numbers, the world wide web will continue to be our favoured shopping destination this year. It’s important, however, to stay safe online and know your consumer rights…

Boosters for the over 50s won't start to be administered until the end of year. The HSE says boosters for the medically vulnerable will be completed first. Boosters for the over 50s were given the green light over a week ago. Head of the HSE's vaccination and…

Sex offenders should be denied the right to be forgotten, that’s the strong view of Roscommon / Galway deputy Denis Naughten. He has called on the Government to update the law to ensure that sex offenders cannot erase their past offences either online or by…

No further Covid restrictions will be imposed by the Government this week, as Ministers and public health officials wait until at least the end of next week before deciding if further measures are required to tackle the fourth wave. The Irish Times reports…

A union representing primary school teachers says students are putting on the 'green jersey' by stepping in as substitutes during the Covid-19 crisis. It's expected that around 4-thousand teaching students will serve as subs in primary schools starting as…

The winners of the An Post Irish Book Awards 2021 have been revealed. 'Beautiful World, Where Are You' by Mayo writer Sally Rooney was voted Novel of the Year. Aisling and the City, by Emer McLysaght and Sarah Breen, was awarded Popular Fiction Book of the…

The head of the HSE is due before the Oireachtas Health Committee this morning to address capacity issues in the health system this winter. CEO Paul Reid is expected to tell politicians the massive increase of Covid-19 is compounding the pressure already on…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 3,666 confirmed cases of COVID-19. As of 8am today, 638 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 130 are in ICU. Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health said: “We…

Final-year exams may be brought forward to allow trainee teachers to take on urgent substitution roles in schools. Teacher training colleges discussed this possibility with Education Minister Norma Foley this afternoon. It comes as hundreds of teachers are…

Sinn Féin is bringing a cross-party motion before the Dáil this evening, calling for the recent redress scheme for Mother and Baby Home survivors to be changed. Mayo Sinn Fein deputy Rose Conway Walsh says it’s time to respect Mother and Baby Homes survivors…

The Chief Executive of Saolta,Tony Canavan told councillors at this afternoon’s virtual meeting of the West Regional Health Forum that Covid-19 cases are expected to climb during the rest of this month and into December. “We are concerned within the health…

Young people are being urged to register to vote ahead of Thursday's deadline. The National Youth Council says over 126,000 people have come of age since the last general election last year. It's calling on those people to sign up before another ballot is…

A total of 598 thousand Covid booster doses have been administered, as of yesterday. Over 160 thousand were administered last week, but there are calls for the campaign to be ramped up. At the peak of the vaccine roll out, 390 thousand vaccines were issued in…

22,000 euro in cash has been seized in a CAB operation across Galway and Limerick this morning. Six homes were searched along with one business. An Audi was seized, as well as designer goods and over 4-thousand pound sterling. The search operation targeted an…

A Passport Office is urgently needed to service people across the West of Ireland. That’s the view of Fine Gael TD Michael Ring, who has called for an office to be set up in County Mayo. The Westport-based Deputy has again called on the Department of Foreign…

There are fears that a Cabinet memo on the defective blocks redress scheme could be pushed back until as late as December. That’s according to the spokesperson for the North Mayo Pyrite Group Barbara Clinton, who has questioned why Government haven’t had…

The way antigen testing is being set up in schools is ‘shambolic’, according to the Principal of Scoil Iosa primary school in Ballyhaunis. Principal Kenneth Dennedy believes that the rapid covid-19 tests should be administered directly to the schools…

The Minister of State for Heritage, Malcolm Noonan, has today announced the approval by the European Commission of a new EU LIFE project, LIFE On Machair, worth over €5.7 million in EU funding. With a total budget of €7.4m, the project seeks to improve the…

A new name has been agreed for the new Technological University for the West / Northwest region. It will be known as the Atlantic Technological University, and will incorporate Galway-Mayo IT, Sligo and Letterkenny Institutes of Technology. The name has been…

A memo on the establishment of a Commission on Housing will go before the Cabinet this morning. The Commission is expected to be set up before Christmas and will be charged with considering long term housing policy. The wording of a possible referendum on the…

A planned Cabinet memo on subsidising the cost of antigen tests has been delayed. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly was due to bring the proposals to his Government colleagues this morning. The details of the deal to subsidise the cost of antigen tests were…

Gardaí were notified about a quantity of property left in a bag on the grounds of Sligo University Hospital at around 3pm yesterday afternoon. It was believed to be stolen from a premises in Sligo Town. Gardai subsequently located and arrested two women on…

A Ballina dental practice has won a national award, for their work in preventing serious dental injuries on the sports field. Dr Paul Dunne and his team at the Ballina Dental Practice won the Colgate Caring Dental Team of the Year award for providing…

Students and staff at all campuses of Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology can now use a new anonymous tool to report incidents of bullying, harassment, discrimination, hate crime, assault, stalking or rape. The online tool called "Speak Out" was circulated to…

The Department of Health has this evening confirmed a further 5,634 cases of Covid-19. There are 684 patients being treated in hospital for the virus - an increase of 16 since yesterday - while 126 of these patients are being treated in ICU.

A second man has been charged in connection with the seizure of €208,000 worth of suspected cannabis and the discovery of a growhouse in the Ballymote area of Co Sligo last Saturday. One man appeared before a special sitting of the Carrick-on-Shannon district…

The National Lottery has revealed the Galway store that sold a €1 million euro winning ticket in Saturday night's Lotto Plus 1 draw. The winner purchased their ticket on Saturday at the Costcutter shop in the village of Bealadangan in the Galway Gaeltacht.…

A walk-in Covid-19 vaccination centre will be open in Breaffy House Resort, Castlebar this evening, for anyone aged 12 or over who has not yet received their first vaccine. People waiting for their second dose of the Pfizer vaccine can also attend the walk-in…

Three permanent deacons were ordained yesterday for the Archdiocese of Tuam. In his final official engagement as Archbishop of Tuam, Dr Michael Neary ordained three lay men to the Permanent Diaconate at the refurbished Tuam Cathedral. Cathal Galligan from the…

A medical evacuation took place last night off one of the Aran Islands off Co Galway. The volunteer crew of Aran Islands RNLI were asked to launch the all-weather Severn class lifeboat at 8.17pm by the Irish Coast Guard. A resident on the neighbouring Island…

As hospital emergency departments remain under ongoing pressure, the HSE is reminding the public that the Roscommon Injury Unit is open every day of the year, from 8am to 8pm, to treat a wide range of injuries. The unit has treated 7,800 people to date this…

Ireland West Airport Knock has been granted just over half a million euro in Regional Airports Programme funding. The announcement was made by Galway West TD and Minister of State at the Department of Transport Hildegarde Naughton and forms part of €1.6…

A Sinn Fein TD says The Mother and Baby Homes redress scheme does not cover all the institutions or county homes. Kathleen Funchion says 41 percent of survivors are covered in the redress, but more than half will not be included. She described the situation…

A cabinet sub-committee will meet today to discuss whether to delay cuts to covid supports for hospitality businesses. The industry is complaining of lost revenue due to restrictions, saying limiting open times to midnight will damage trading before…

The Irish Farmers Association says 'the clock is ticking' to save the future of the industry in Ireland. It's accused the Government of expecting more and more for less where the climate action plan is concerned. 70 tractors in a convoy drove though Dublin…

A consultant in infectious diseases says the high number of patients in hospital is 'very disappointing'. RCSI Senior Lecturer Eoghan de Barra says it's 'a very significant strain' on resources and will make life very difficult for the health service. 4,181…

Authorities at NUI Galway are considering a name change due to poor international recognition. The Irish Times reports "University of Galway" is being considered in a bid to strengthen its identity and status. The college was formerly known as Queen's College…

A man's in a critical condition in hospital after a serious crash in County Leitrim. No other car was involved when it happened close to Dromahair yesterday. This single car collision happened at Fivemilebourne shortly after 4 o'clock yesterday afternoon. The…

A man in his 40s has been charged in connection with the seizure of approximately €208,000 of suspected cannabis and the discovery of a growhouse in the Ballymote area of County Sligo on Saturday, 20th November, 2021. This man is expected to appear before a…

The Killala native who died following a road collision in Mexico earlier this week will be laid to rest on Wednesday next. Ambrose Blaine, Rusheens, Killala, is survived by his wife Anne and daughters Aoibhín, Niamh & Anna Rose. The 55 year old pilot was…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 5,959 confirmed cases of COVID-19. As of 8am today, 640 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 121 are in ICU.

An aggravated burglary occurred at a house in the Tourlestrane area of County Sligolast night (Fri).Sligo gardai say sometime between 7.20pm – 7.45pm, three masked men entered the property. A number of items were taken including jewellery, a handbag with cash…

A nightclub in Ballaghadeerreen has closed its doors to patrons because of the current public health guidelines. The Castle Nightclub in Ballaghaderreen has informed customers that it will be closed for an “unforeseeable duration.” Under the new guidelines,…

Galway deputy Sean Canney has urged the Minister for the Environment Eamon Ryan to expedite legislation to provide a lawful basis for local authorities to use CCTV in detecting and prosecuting illegal dumping. The Minister in reply to a Parliamentary Question…

A member of the National Emergency Team (NPHET) says the group does not want to advise the government to introduce another lockdown. But Director of the National Virus Reference Laboratory, Dr Cillian de Gascun, says the high transmissibility of the Delta…

Eircom Limited is appealing a recent decision by Mayo County Council to refuse planning permission for the company to erect a a 15-metre telecommunications monopole, overlooking Lough Lannagh in Castlebar. The appeal has been lodged to the planning board and…

Petrol prices have soared to an all time high with fears they could continue to rise. A survey published in the Independent newspaper shows petrol currently costs 1 euro 72 cent per litre on average. Meanwhile a litre of diesel isn't far behind at 1 euro 63…

On this busy weekend of Club championship football in Mayo, flags and bunting in support of both Erris Clubs -Kilcommon and Belmullet, both in county final action, were taken from Bangor last night The culprits have been captured on CCTV and are being advised…

The Federation of Early Childcare Providers says they're trying to keep Covid out - and keep everybody safe - on a shoestring. They've written to every TD in the country this weekend to highlight their concerns about the sector, and a lack of resources and…

The Government's been told to 'speed up' the roll out of booster shots for Covid 19 by an infectious diseases expert. Jack Lambert says Ireland needs to be more proactive and make the booster dose more accessible. 3,138 new Covid cases were confirmed…

GMIT is hosting a virtual open day for prospective students and their families on the CrowdComms platform today (Sat) from 10am for 4pm. The event on https://openday.gmit.ie/ will focus on the range of CAO programmes offered in all five GMIT campuses, as well…

Gardai in Longford are continuing to seek the public's help in finding a 16 year old girl who has gone missing. Louise Little, from Edgeworthstown, was last seen on Tuesday and often visits Ballinasloe in county Galway She's 5ft 4in tall, with a slim build.…

The Department of Health is reporting 3,138 new cases of Covid-19. 643 people are in hospital with the virus, with 118 in ICU. The country's 14-day incidence rate now stands at 1,217 cases per 100,000 people - with Leitrim, Westmeath and Carlow having the…

Larger hospitals are being told to prioritise urgent and Covid care over the next two weeks. The head of the HSE says rising covid cases are putting hospitals under severe pressure. 643 Covid patients are in hospital today - the highest number since February…

Planning permission has been granted for an expansion of Ballina based Charles River Laboratories plant, to facilitate the intensification of its operations and the creation of an additional 90 jobs over the next three years. On July 23 last, the company…

Mayo University Hospital has introduced a text message reminder service for patients who have appointments in the Outpatient and Ambulatory Gynaecology Departments in the hospital. MUH The hospital runs approximately 60,000 outpatient appointments per year…

The scarcity of substitute teachers in our schools at present requires immediate and radical action, according to Sligo/ Leitrim deputy Marian Harkin She says due to the present surge in Covid cases, we need to think outside the box and take some radical…

Pre-school children across the region are taking part in National Pyjama Day today. The annual event, organised by Early Childhood Ireland, will see families sponsoring both preschool children and school age children to wear their pyjamas to their early years…

The head of the HSE says hospitals are under "severe pressure" with around 20 percent of Covid patients in ICU. The executive is using private hospitals to increase capacity by around 2,800 to 3,000 beds per week. It comes as just 17 adult ICU beds are…

The bother of a missing Galway man has appealed for help in tracing his whereabouts. Dunmore native Stephen Cunningham has been missing since November 5th. Stephen is described as being approximately 6' 2" in height with a thin build, blue eyes, sandy/blond…

As Ireland continues to be impacted by COVID-19, HSE Community Healthcare West are recruiting Community Swabbers for COVID-19 testing teams. This role of Community Swabber is a unique job in the health services and is very much a vital role in the responsive…

Data released by the HSE to the Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín shows that over 100,000 fewer women were screened for breast cancer in 2020 than were screened in 2019. Deputy Tóibín has called for urgent investments to make up for the pandemic shortfalls. The HSE…

Belmullet continues to have the lowest incidence rate of Covid-19 in the country. The Belmullet area has a 14-day incidence of 318 per 100,000, which is up from 198 last week. 40 cases of coronavirus were recorded between November 2nd and 15th. Westport is…

People are being asked to revert to working from home from today, unless it's necessary. It's a complete reversal of the rules that were relaxed in September. But the Government's being warned it may not have the desired effect on Covid-19 case numbers. Neil…

Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 32 year old Stephen Cunningham who is missing from Ballybrit, Galway. Stephen is described as being approximately 6' 2" in height with a thin build, blue eyes, sandy/blond hair and may…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 4,650 new confirmed cases of COVID-19. As of 8am today, 643 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 118 are in ICU. Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health said:…

Pantibar, one of the country's best known gay venues, is facing a challenge to its pub licence from local residents. The bar, run by Ballinrobe native, Rory O'Neill, AKA Panti Bliss, on Dublin's Capel Street has become iconic among the LGBTQ+ community.…

19 per cent of Covid hospitalisations are requiring ICU treatment - compared with around 10 per cent in January. The HSE says the virus is currently having a higher impact on the health system than at any other time during the pandemic. 38 per cent of…

Antigen testing for asymptomatic close contacts will begin in primary schools on or before November 29th. The Education and Health Ministers announced the move today. Tests will be made available to children in a primary school pod, where a child in the pod…

Following recent changes in public health advice, the Mature Road Users Information Day, which was to take place in Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar on Tuesday next, November 23rd 2021 is being postponed to Spring 2022. It is intended to re-schedule this…

A nightclub owner in Ballina believes the Government had no choice but to bring in the new measures. A midnight curfew for restaurants, bars and nightclubs comes into force later today. The measure has been brought in to try curb the recent spike in Covid-19…

Payslip, a tech company that harmonizes global payroll operations for multinational companies, with its headquarters in Westport, is looking to increase its workforce by 75 over the next year. Payslip has seen a surge in demand for hybrid workforces as a…

HSE Community Healthcare West is advising members of the public requiring a COVID-19 test that all requests for COVID-19 tests are by appointment only via the self-referral online portal https://covid19test.healthservice.ie/hse-self-referral/, and GP…

Martina Hynes from Tuam has been namerd as the 2021 Netwatch Galway Family Carer of the Year Martina cares for her son Joseph (9) who has a rare genetic disorder and epilepsy. Martina was nominated by her friend Noreen who said that she goes above and beyond…

Castlebar Chamber of Commerce has launched a new website, castlebarchamber.com. It can be accessed at https://www.castlebarchamber.com/. Bernard Hughes, Chamber President, said the new site is a positive spin-off from Castlebar winning the Rising Star…

Family Carers Ireland, the national charity supporting Ireland’s family carers has announced this year’s Netwatch Mayo and Connacht Family Carer of the Year. She is Una Biggins from Deerpark, Clogher, Claremorris. Una has cared for her husband Gerry, who has…

James Geraghty from Molloy's Lifestyle Pharmacy conducted a rapid antigen test live on The Tommy Marren Show this morning. How to do an antigen test: To do the antigen test you use a swab to take a sample from your nose. The test will show the result in 15…

The man in his 20s arrested yesterday, in relation to an incident in Eyre Square, Galway on the 22nd October 2021 has been released without charge. A file will now be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

100 new jobs have been announced by a US hiring software company. Greenhouse, which has employees in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Wexford, says the positions will be a mix of hybrid and remote roles. The firm set up its European base in the capital last…

The head of NPHET's modelling group says there's "every hope" that over 400 Covid patients won't end up in ICU next month. Professor Philip Nolan has urged people to reduce their social contacts by a third to bring the virus back under control. New…

Somers Park in Castlerea has received 250,000 euro in Outdoor Performance and Public Space funding from the Government. This investment has been welcomed by Fianna Fail councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice, who says the project will go to Part 8 planning within the…

The search for a missing Galway man has entered it’s eight day today. 32-year-old Stephen Cunningham from Ballybrit has been missing since November 2nd. Stephen is described as being over 6 feet in height with a thin build and sandy blond hair. Cleggan Coast…

County Mayo has among the lowest rates of Covid-19 in the country. In the two-week period leading up to November 16th there were 1,340 confirmed cases of the virus in the county, giving a 14-day incidence reading of 1,027 which is the sixth lowest in the…

A Mayo man has died in a road traffic collision in Mexico. 55-year-old Ambrose Blaine originally from Killala but living in Malahide died in a collision on Monday last November 15th. Mr Blaine, a married father of three is a pilot and worked in a consultancy…

A midnight curfew for restaurants, bars and nightclubs comes into force later today. The measure has been brought in to try curb the recent spike in Covid-19 cases. However, several nightclubs across the country say they'll continue to open, but will just…

A Mayo Deputy has criticised the Government over mixed messaging with regards to Covid restrictions. Erris based Sinn Fein TD Rose Conway-Walsh says there has been no mitigating factors put in place citing the need for ventilation in schools. She also has…

43 Covid-related deaths have been reported over the past week. 3,633 new cases have also been confirmed in the most recent 24-hour period. 634 Covid patients are in hospital, up 20 from yesterday. 119 people are in intensive care with the virus, up five.

The highest award for a birth injury case was approved by the High Court today. After accepting liability for negligence during the delivery of a boy from Birr, Co Offaly, the HSE settled its case with his mother for 30 million euro. Oran Molloy suffered…

Gardaí have today arrested a man in his 20s as part of the investigation into an incident in Eyre Square, Galway on the 22nd October, when a female was struck with a firework. He is currently being detained under the provisions of Section 4 of the Criminal…

Anyone over the age of 16 thinking of continuing or returning to education or training in Co. Mayo will get invaluable insights at a special webinar this evening. ‘Welcome to FET! – Further Education and Training Opportunities in Mayo’ is the title of the…

Mayo Vintners Chairman believes the government’s mitigation measures announced yesterday, are heading for another lockdown of the sector this Christmas. Achill based Alan Gielty says yesterday’s announcement that the hospitality centre must close from…

The North Mayo Heritage Centre at Enniscoe is celebrating two awards today, A Green Flag and a Heritage Flag. It is also launching its new craft beer, brewed by hops grown in its organic garden. Hugh Trayer, Manager of the North Mayo Heritage Centre has been…

Mayo, Galway and Roscommon feature among the 103 areas that have secured the international accolade of 2021 Green Flag Awards The initiative, which's operated by An Taisce, honours high-quality parks and green spaces that are managed in a sustainable way.…

Pope Francis is to appoint a single Bishop to the Diocese of Galway, Kilmacduagh and Kilfenora and the Diocese of Clonfert. The union of two dioceses under one Bishop is not, however, according to the Bishops, an amalgamation and does not suppress either of…

IFA President Tim Cullinan says the IFA is revising its plans for the Farm Family Rally planned for this Sunday, due to the increasing concerns around COVID. It’s now organising a modified event involving tractors and machinery. Mr Cullinan said it was a big…

The Health Minister says cheaper antigen tests will be made available "very shortly" - but hasn't been able to give an exact date. New restrictions to reduce the rates of Covid will see a curfew for the hospitality sector take effect tomorrow. While everyone…

Survivors of Mother and Baby Homes have described as 'totally inadequate' the redress scheme announced by government. The 800 million euro scheme, announced yesterday, will benefit around 34,000 former residents. Minister for Children, Roderic O'Gorman, says…

Local TD Denis Naughten has asked the Minister for Justice to intervene as Garda manpower has hit an all-time low in the Roscommon Garda District leaving just one Garda policing an area from Ballyleague to Ballinasloe on occasion. Speaking in the Dail, the…

The Department of Health has this evening reported 4,407 new cases of Covid-19. 614 people are in hospital with the virus, of whom 114 are being treated in ICU. Almost 55-thousand infections have been confirmed in the past two weeks, an amount which hasn't…

Gardaí are investigating a road traffic collision that occurred on the N5 in county Roscommon this morning. The incident in which a minor was struck by a vehicle occurred close to Frenchpark at 9.10am. Non life-threatening injuries were sustained and an…

The family of a missing Galway man is again appealing for public assistance in the search for him. 32 year old Stephen Cunningham has been missing from Ballybrit, Galway for two weeks now, since Tuesday, November 2nd. He is described as being approximately 6'…

Over 50s, and those with underlying conditions aged between 16 and 59, will be added to the list of those eligible for a Covid-19 booster vaccine. It follows advice from the National Immunisation Advisory Committee to Government - which has been approved by…

Pubs, restaurants and nightclubs will have earlier closing hours from Thursday after Cabinet approved more measures aimed at reducing the spread of Covid. Hospitality businesses will have to close at midnight in a row back from Government. While people will…

Almost half of the people who died of Covid-19 in the space of seven months were fully vaccinated. 606 patients died of the virus in Ireland between April 1st and November 6th. 292 were fully vaccinated. 72 per cent had an underlying medical condition, and…

The government has approved an 800 million euro redress scheme for survivors of mother and baby homes. 34 thousand former residents will be eligible and applications open late next year once the necessary legislation is passed. All mothers who spent time in…

Nightclubs, pubs and restaurants will have new closing hours of 12 midnight from this Thursday under plans agreed by Cabinet. Ministers have also approved new advice for people to work from home where they can from Friday. In the face of very stark warnings…

The country's 14-day incidence rate of Covid-19 has increased by 165 per cent over the past month. 21 counties have rates of over 1,000 per 100,000 people. However, Roscommon has the lowest rate of infection in the country. A month ago, the country's 14-day…

Mayo Deputy Alan Dillon is calling for an urgent review of the Advanced Medical Priority Dispatch System to determine its effectiveness within National Ambulance Service. The Fine Gael TD was supplied with new information showing that average waiting times…

File: hjoh dur: 4 secs A Ballina councillor has accused Irish Water of “hoodwinking” the farming and business community, with its newly imposed charges on water meters. Councillor John O’Hara says that the utility company some years ago, asked farmers to…

“The Kenyan Art Project” an exhibition of art works by two local artists, Anna O Dixon and Norah Brennan, will be held in the Townhall Theatre Gallery, Claremorris over the weekend 3rd to the 5th of December. Its a fund raising event and all proceeds will be…

Gardaí have arrested three men in Galway following an armed robbery in Ferbane, Co. Offaly yesterday morning. Three men entered a convenience store in Ferbane at approximately 6:40 armed with a number of weapons and forced the two female staff members to hand…

There may be some welcome news before the end of the year, for people across the region looking for a home, and who do not qualify for social / council housing. That’s according to Independent Westport councillor Christy Hyland. He says that he has been…

The Cabinet will consider covid measures including working from home, when it meets this morining. Last night the cabinet sub-committee heard up to 500 people with Covid could require ICU admission by next month, under a worst-case scenario - in new NPHET…

The Cabinet is due to sign off on a long awaited compensation scheme for the survivors of Mother and Baby Homes when it meets this morning. It's understood the scheme is worth 800 million euro and will also include an action plan on access to birth records.…

Over €49,000 has been announced for three Mayo projects under the LGBTI+ Community Services Fund. That’s according to Fine Gael TD Michael Ring, who says the call came from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. The projects…

Families living on an unauthorised site at Ernst Chain Road in Castlebar want to raise awareness over the lack of progress by Mayo County Council in addressing the inadequate living conditions on their site and are holding a protest outside the headquarters…

There have been 4,570 new cases of Covid-19 reported by the Department of Health in the Republic today. The number of people with Covid-19 who are being treated in hospitals has increased by forty from yesterday to 622. 117 of these patients are being treated…

An elderly man died in a house fire in the Cloghans area of Ballina at the weekend. The victim has been named locally as Tom McGowan. He was the single occupant of the residence that caught fire on Friday evening, last. The alarm was raised by neighbours who…

Up to 100 nurses, INMO members, at Mayo University Hospital took part in a lunchtime protest today outside the hospital to highlight what they term “excessive workloads and staffing pressure”. Nursing staff claim that they are unable to take adequate breaks…

Construction will start on a 130,000 euro Village enhancement Scheme in Cong in the New Year. That’s according to Fianna Fail Councillor Damien Ryan, who says the rising of the waters project will be a footprint for the area. The project was sent to An Bord…

401 admitted patients are waiting for beds today at hospitals across the country That’s according to today’s INMO Trolley Watch figures, which show there are 302 patients waiting in the emergency department, while 99 are in wards elsewhere in the hospital…

The head of the HSE says there's a high level of 'stress and duress' across the health system because of Covid 19. 617 patients are in hospital with the virus and 106 are in ICU. There are 27 patients with the virus at Galway University Hospital at present,…

The Saolta Hospital Group says they understand and regret the ongoing pressures facing nursing staff across their sites, including at Mayo University Hospital. In a statement to Midwest News they say the improvement of nursing staff levels, are a priority for…

A cheque for €91,500 raised by a group of Dublin-based Mayo diaspora and friends has been handed over to the Mayo-Roscommon Hospice.The group undertook a marathon fundraising cycle challenge from Dublin to Castlebar in aid of the charity last July. The West…

The fifth edition of the historical journal Claremorris Historical Society, Clann Mhuiris, will be available from the usual outlets in Claremorris from this weekend. The publication of Clann Mhuiris has become something of an annual event, keenly awaited by…

The Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue today gave further details about how farmers can continue their participation in GLAS for 2022. Farmers with GLAS 1, 2 or 3 contracts which will expire on 31st December 2021 are being offered an extension of…

Statement on INMO action at MUH Mayo University Hospital (MUH) and the wider Saolta University Health Care Group regret the ongoing pressures facing nursing staff across our sites. Nursing staffing levels at MUH and at all our hospitals, and the improvement…

Over €290,000 in funding has been set aside for Mayo community groups impacted by COVID-19. That’s was confirmed by Fianna Fáil Senator Lisa Chambers, who says the funding is part of the Community Activities Funds national allocation of €9 million. This money…

The Cabinet Sub Committee on Covid-19 will meet this evening to consider further actions aimed at addressing rising infection rates. The wider use of covid certs, antigen tests and a recommendation for people work from home where possible are among the…

Visitors to nursing homes will be required to show a Covid vaccination certificate from today, before entering the premises. Other proof of immunity would also be acceptable. The new requirement does not include Essential Service Providers such as healthcare,…

INMO members at Mayo University Hospital will protest outside the hospital this afternoon, to highlight excessive workloads and staffing pressure. The union says staff in the hospital are unable to take adequate breaks or use their annual leave due to their…

Contractors should engage more with local communities across Mayo to avoid lengthy road closures. That's according to Fine Gael councillor Ger Deere, who has made the call following representations from the residents of Correens to Mayo County Council on the…

A man who died in a tragic accident in the Cregganbawn area has been named as Jimmy Kilcoyne of Shrawee, Louisburgh. Jimmy, who was in his 40s, was a reported missing from the area late on Friday night and a search operation got underway yesterday morning.…

Work commenced this week on the Smarter Travel footpaths and cycle-way in the village of Glencorrib. 100,000 euro was sanctioned for the project several months ago and it will be completed as planned by the local community group and Mayo County Council.…

The Department of Health has confirmed 3,805 new cases of Covid-19 today. As of 8am today, 582 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised. 106 of these are in intensive care.

A Lotto player in Sligo will be celebrating today after becoming Ireland’s newest Lotto millionaire after scooping the top prize of €1 million in last night’s Lotto Plus 1 draw. The National Lottery has said it hopes to reveal the name of the winning store…

Support for Sinn Fein has jumped six points to 37 percent approval in the latest opinion poll in the Sunday Times today. The party's leader Mary Lou McDonald is at 50 percent- nine points clear of the Taoiseach Micheal Martin. According to the survey, Fine…

Gardai in Leitrim have renewed their appeal for information about un-identified remains found off the coast of the county in 1986. The body was discovered on the 1st of May, at Knockbrack in Tullaghan. A post mortem was completed but the remains were never…

Mass is being celebrated at Knock Shrine in county Mayo today, for those who have been bereaved during the Covid-19 pandemic. Prayers will also be offered for those who have died during this time. The Bishops of Ireland will concelebrate the Mass in the…

There is good news for Galway this morning, as NUIG has been named University of the Year, and GMIT has been named Institute of Technology of the year. The new edition of The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 also reveals that Trinity College dublin…

The search for a man missing in the Westport area was stood down this morning after the discovery of a body. A man, in his 40s, was reported missing late last night and a search operation got underway this morning. The Ballyglass Coast Guard Unit’s Drone Team…

Calls for countries to speed up the phasing out of 'inefficient fossil fuel subsidies' has been kept in the latest draft of the Cop26 climate agreement. That wording was a sticking point for some nations trying to reach a deal yesterday. They missed the…

The Department of Health has reported a further 4,642 cases of Covid-19 today. Currently, 556 patients are being treated in hospital - up 7 on yesterday. 107 are in ICU - a rise of 11 on yesterday's figures. HSE CEO Paul Reid has called on the public to 'turn…

Almost half the children who died while in state care over the last decade, passed away from drug overdoses or suicide. Forty two young people died between 2010 and 2019, twelve of them by suicide and another six by overdose. In total 206 children and young…

Pharmacists say there's opportunity and obligation for the HSE when it comes to antigen tests. They're to be rolled out across primary schools, but NPHET has also advised twice weekly testing for people undertaking 'high risk' activities. Darragh O'Loughlin…

Children's Minister Roderic O'Gorman has written to mother and baby home survivors to say he'll seek approval on a payment scheme next week. The arrangement is being put in place to recognise the 'suffering' people endured in the homes. They will receive a…

Cases of a respiratory virus increased by 22 per cent last week. There were 483 RSV infections between November 1st and 7th - compared to 397 the week before. The HSE says the virus is at 'very high levels' - with four out of five cases last week among…

The country's 14-day incidence rate of Covid-19 has increased by 163 per cent in the past month. It now stands at 1,037 cases per 100,000 people - the first time it's been above 1,000 since late January. It was only 394 a month ago. Nearly 5,500 cases were…

A major fundraising drive is underway for the daughter of an Erris woman who needs life-saving spinal surgeries and ongoing stem cell therapy. 36-year old Kirstin Maguire who has fibromyalgia, PoTS, Vitiligo, ME and other chronic conditions is based in the…

5,483 new cases of Covid-19 have been reported this evening - the highest figure since January 10th. The Chief Medical Officer says it's also one of the highest ever daily case counts. Dr Tony Holohan says there's been a very significant increase in cases in…

Tom McCann is a dementia nurse specialist with Western Alzheimer’s and he’s been talking to Tommy Marren about the importance of people becoming more comfortable about talking about dementia. Every person has a role to play when it comes to dementia. The…

Ennis in County Clare has claimed the top prize at the SuperValu National Tidy Towns Awards this afternoon The awards were announced at a ceremony in the RDS in Dublin and was streamed live to allow groups around the country to listen to the results, unable…

The community of Foxford is not looking for a bypass of the town at this time. That’s the view of local Fine Gael councillor Neil Cruise. The councillor outlined why at this week’s monthly meeting of Mayo County Council. He stated quite clearly that he and…

ESB crews are working to restore power supply to over 2,300 premises in the Achill area. The outage occurred at around 8:30am this morning following windy conditions overnight. Power is expected to be restored by 11am. The ESB have apologised for the loss of…

People visiting nursing homes will need to show a digital covid cert from Monday. New HSE guidance will require proof of vaccination or immunity at the entrance. Visitors may also be asked to show photo ID to make sure the cert is theirs. There will be some…

Over 12,200 state-owned vehicles run on petrol or diesel - and only 186 are electric. Junior Transport Minister Hildegarde Naughton says just 1.5 per cent are electric. It's only up slightly on last year, when the figure was 1.15 per cent. Former climate…

Three local electoral areas in Mayo have a 14-day incidence rate of Covid-19 in excess of the national average. Westport has the highest rate of infection in the county at 1,393 per 100,000 people, accounting for 256 cases; well above the national average of…

The Irish Farmers Association says further cases of highly contagious Avian flu are a 'grave concern'. It was detected in birds in Kerry, Donegal and Offaly yesterday - and in a peregrine falcon in Galway last week. The IFA says the outbreak could have an…

The government will make a decision next Tuesday about whether to ask people to work from home where possible. It's after NPHET issued that advice yesterday - and appealed to employers to be supportive. It comes amid concern at rising Covid case numbers, with…

Gardaí are urging motorists to take care on roads across the region this morning. The warning has been issued as a wind warning ended in Mayo and Galway at 8am. Met Eireann says that gusts of up to 110 kilometres per hour battered the west last night.…

Due to the high numbers presenting for Covid 19 tests in the Galway test centre at the airport at present, the HSE is to operate a Pop-up Covid testing Centre at the Tuam GAA Stadium on Monday and Tuesday next, (15, 16th Nov). The Pop-up Tuam centre will…

Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 16 year old Louise Little who has been missing from Edgeworthstown, Co. Longford since Friday last. Louise is described as being approximately 5' 4" in height with a slim build, long…

Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 32 year old Stephen Cunningham who has been missing from Ballybrit, Galway since Tuesday 2nd November, 2021.Stephen is described as being approximately 6' 2" in height with a thin build,…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has this evening been notified of 3,680 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 nationally.As of 8am today, 543 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of whom 97 are in ICU. Meanwhile NPHET is meeting to look at the rising…

The Kiltimagh Amenity Park Committee is delighted that the Part 8 planning for the development of its Emigrant Park in the town centre has been approved. Elected councillors gave the green light for the community development at yesterday’s monthly meeting of…

A status yellow wind warning for counties Galway and Mayo comes into place shortly. Met Eireann says the warning begins at 4pm this afternoon, with gusts of up to 110km/hr expected. The status yellow alert will remain in place until 8am tomorrow (Fri)…

Long time broadcaster and journalist, Roscommon’s Seamus Duke is launching his new autobiography this evening at the Abbey hotel in Roscommon. “Dukie… The Game of Life” is the name of the new book and it details his 32 years working in the local media and…

Only 1 percent of almost 800 students surveyed recently in Westport cycle to school. The survey was carried out by Westport Active Travel to School Group, which includes Green Schools from Brackloon National School, Rice College and Sacred Heart School in…

The controversy over the renaming of Mayo’s National Park from Ballycroy National Park to The Wild Nephin National Park continues. At this week’s monthly meeting of Mayo County Council, councillors unanimously agreed to insist that Ballycroy is again added…

A Mayo deputy has today urged community groups in Mayo impacted by COVID-19 to apply to Mayo County Council for The Community Activities Fund. Mayo County Council will have a fund of €290,406 to support community groups with their running costs, such as…

There are 21 Covid patients at Mayo University Hospital today. That's a drop of six in the space of 24 hours, according to the HSE. Three new cases were admitted to the Castlebar facility yesterday while the centre's ICU remains Covid-free. Elsewhere, there…

The woman who is missing in South Sligo has been found safe and well. The 58-year-old was missing since yesterday evening but Gardaí in Tubbercurry have confirmed to Midwest News this morning that she has been found and have thanked the public for their…

Tubbercurry is in line for a major boost after the German international retailer Lidl was notified by Sligo County Council that it is to get planning permission for a new store with a fourteen-hundred square metre sales area. Lidl says it will bring in…

A Fianna Fail Councillor has called on Mayo County Council to urgently address the worsening traffic situation in Ballinrobe. At the Claremorris/Swinford Municipal District meeting Cllr. Damien Ryan called for the local authority to make an application to…

An enhanced scheme for homeowners affected by the mica crisis is set to go to Cabinet in less than two weeks with a new cap of up to €400,000 per home under discussion. It was originally intended that the scheme would be presented to Cabinet this week but…

The National Public Health Emergency Team will meet today to consider if further measures are needed to address the high Covid rates. Health officials will discuss the possible introduction of a full work from home policy - but aren't looking at other…

Gardai are appealing for assistance in tracing the whereabouts of a missing woman in Sligo. The Gardaí and the family of Susan Minton are concerned for her well being. Susan is 58-years-old, and was last seen in the Cloonacool area of Sligo at approximately…

74 Covid-related deaths have been reported over the past week. It's the highest total since NPHET started reporting deaths on a WEEKLY basis five months ago. 2,975 new cases have also been confirmed today. 551 Covid patients are in hospital - the highest…

A forensics expert says identifying childrens' remains at Tuam would likely take years. Survivors and relatives of those who died at the former mother and baby home have called for the Co. Galway site to be excavated. The site has been controversial following…

Eirgrid has today announced a one billion euro investment in the strengthening and modernising of the electricity network nationally. The power grid is to be upgraded over the next decade to accomodate 80 per cent renewable energy. The company is expecting…

County Leitrim now has the third highest 14 day incidence rate of Covid 19 nationally. The country's 14-day incidence rate of Covid-19 has more than doubled over the past month. It now stands at 895 cases per 100,000 people - compared to less than 400 at the…

Pope Francis has announced the appointment of Bishop Francis Duffy as the Archbishop of Tuam. Archbishop-elect Duffy will replace Archbishop Michael Neary who is retiring at the age of 75. Born in County Cavan, 63-year-old Bishop Duffy was ordained to the…

Mayo deputy Rose Conway Walsh has welcomed the passing of a Sinn Fein Dail motion yesterday evening supporting fair investment in transport in rural Ireland, that focussed on the delivery of the western rail corridor. She told Midwest News today that while it…

It’s expected that the Diabetes in Pregnancy clinic will be restored at Mayo university Hospital by early next year. That’s according to Mayo Fianna Fail deputy Dara Calleary. The deputy raised the matter in the Dail after the service was withdrawn from the…

The High court has made an order quashing planning permission for a chicken farm in Balla, county Mayo. According to today's Irish Times, the order was made by Mr Justice Anthony Barr after he was told that An Bord Pleanala had consented to quashing the…

The magnificent sight of the Argentine ARA Libertad ship sailing into Killala bay at Kilcummin could be on the horizon again this Summer. The navy training ship of the Argentine Navy last sailed into Kilcummin back in 1998, and at this week’s monthly meeting…

There was a 19 per cent increase in Covid tests carried out in the community last week. Nearly 137,000 were taken between November 1st and 7th - compared to less than 115,000 the previous week. The five-day moving average of cases has increased by 30 per cent…

3,578 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed this evening. It's the eighth consecutive day the figure has exceeded 3,000. 520 Covid patients are in hospital - the highest in over eight months - with 83 in intensive care, up five from yesterday. The Chief…

Mayo's first-ever Climate Action Gathering will take place in Ballina this Friday and Saturday. It will coincide with the end of COP26, and former President Mary Robinson will officially launch the event virtually, from the UN Climate Change conference taking…

The hospitality industry is calling for stronger sanctions for pubs and restaurants breaching the Covid-19 regulations. The Restaurants Association of Ireland says this should include fines and closures. It follows a meeting between the hospitality sector,…

Almost 600 new cases of Covid-19 were recorded in Mayo in the past week. Latest figures from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre show Mayo has recorded 596 cases of the virus in the last 7 days, with 250 cases in Roscommon, 1,321 in Galway, 293 new…

We're now at a critical point in the spread of Covid-19, with a doubling of cases in Mayo and Galway over the past week. That's according to Dr Breda Smyth, Director of Public Health at the HSE West. She says almost 80 new cases of the disease are now being…

More than 1.6 million euro in grant funding has been allocated today to Dawn Meats Ireland for capital works to its plants in Ballyhaunis, county Mayo and Kilbeggan in county Westmeath. Agri-food projects nationally are to benefit from a €70 million fund to…

What is it really like living with a person with dementia? Have a listen to Eileen who tells Tommy Marren about her late husband’s dementia experience and how it has led her to volunteer and help other families going through a similar journey. Remember, we…

Inland Fisheries Ireland has launched a funding call of up to €1 million today to support vital conservation projects around the country. Eligible angling clubs, fishery owners and other stakeholders in the region are now invited to apply for funding to…

Castlebar councillor Donna Sheridan has welcomed the announcement of Technological University for the West and North West, but questioned if it is a rebranding exercise with a change in Management structure and a different name on the degree. The Fine Gael…

A patient is dying every day because of hospital overcrowding, according to the Irish Patients Association. Latest figures from the INMO, show 449 people are waiting on trolleys nationwide at present. Galway University Hospital has the second highest amount…

520 Covid-19 patients are in hospital today - the highest figure since March. There were 81 patients with the virus admitted in the past 24 hours, which is the most daily admissions since January. While there were 53 discharges over the past day. The…

Gardaí are investigating a break in to a premises on Temple Street in Sligo Town over the weekend. The suspected burglary is believed to have occurred on Saturday night. Investigating officers are appealing to anyone who may have noticed anything suspicious…

The World Health Organisation says the 'substantial' rise in Covid cases in Ireland over the past week, is a cause of concern. At least 3,000 cases have been reported every day for the past week. The five-day moving average now stands at 3,440 - after rising…

Government officials will meet the hospitality sector today about their lack of compliance with Covid rules. The Department of the Taoiseach sought the meeting on Friday, after new ESRI data was released. It found 34 per cent of customers in restaurants…

Gardaí are investigating an aggravated burglary that occurred in the Ballinode/Hazelwood Road area of Sligo Town on Saturday evening. The incident occurred at approximately 8pm, when a house in a local residential estate was forcibly entered by a group of men…

Over 13,000 children won't be able to play soccer matches this weekend, due to 'constant abuse' towards referees recently. Match officials in the Dublin region are withdrawing their services from several underage leagues. The FAI says any abuse directed at…

75 new jobs have been announced for Athlone following a 4.5 million Euro investment by cloud specialist Sidero. The company will be hiring across the areas of cloud and software development. CEO of Sidero Carmel Owens said they aim to fill the position…

Junior Health Minister Frank Feighan has tested positive for Covid-19. The Department of Health says he experienced mild symptoms yesterday, and immediately self-isolated. The Sligo/Leitrim TD arranged for a PCR test, which detected the virus. The Department…

3,161 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed this evening. There are currently 498 patients with Covid in hospitals across the country, with 78 of these patients in ICU. The Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan says vaccination provides our strongest…

Some residents and businesses in Ballina are without water this evening, following a burst water mains in the Bunree area of the town. Irish Water says crews are on site, repairing the burst, and are working with Mayo County Council to restore water to the…

Funding of over €94,000 in total has been allocated to two community groups in Mayo, under the Clár programme. The funding is part of a new Innovation Measure, designed to support communities in delivering innovative projects in rural areas. €44, 236 goes to…

Historian Catherine Corless has received a lifetime achievement award from the Irish Red Cross for her research into the former Mother and Baby home in Tuam. Her work led to the discovery of the death and burial of hundreds of children at the site, while she…

Two men were arrested following two separate street altercations in Claremorris in the early hours of yesterday (Sunday) morning. Both unrelated incidents occurred on Dalton Street in the town after 1am. In the first case two men were fighting on the street…

The Government needs to take real action in the face of rising electricity bills by reducing VAT to zero for the Winter months - that's according to Mayo TD Rose Conway-Walsh. The Sinn Fein deputy says every household has seen their electricity bill rise…

A number of public hospitals across the West have seen an increase in the number of Covid-19 patients over the past week. Latest HSE figures show 32 Covid-positive patients are being treated at Galway University Hospital - up from 24 a week ago. At Mayo…

Broadcaster Mary Kennedy and singer / songwriter Brendan Graham are to be honoured in Cong next weekend, as they're awarded the Cong Hands of Fame Award, and the Freedom of Cong. Next Sunday will see the unveiling of an impression of their hands in bronze, at…

With close to 400 primary school children testing positive for Covid 19 every day, over the last number of weeks, it’s not acceptable for Minister Donnelly to state yesterday that he is “considering” re-introducing contact tracing and introducing antigen…

A Mayo legal firm has won the National Law Award for Probation Law and Practice at a gala ceremony in the Clayton Hotel, Dublin. Swinford-based firm P. O’Connor & Son has been acting in the administration of estates since 1900 and was presented the award in…

IT Sligo will hold an on-campus Open Day this weekend - for the first time since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Virtual open days have been held online since the first lockdown in March 202, but IT Sligo will welcome back prospective students on-campus…

A symptom free COVID-19 Testing facility will operate in Ballina for two day this week. It will be held at the Stephenites GAA Grounds in the town on Wednesday and Thursday from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. All requests for COVID-19 tests will be by appointment…

The Irish Medical Organisation says the health service is being hit by a "perfect storm" due to the high rates of Covid-19. It says the next few weeks will be "critical" with GP surgeries, hospitals and ICU units all under "extraordinary pressure". Case…

Golden Discs has opened its latest store in Galway city this morning. It will be the 23rd store in operation around the country, and the first time the company has been in Galway in 12 years. The company is currently recruiting around 15 to 20 full and…

The Department of Health has reported 3,428 new confirmed cases of Covid-19. As of this morning, 478 patients are being treated in hospital - up 34 since yesterday. 75 are in ICU - an increase of 1 in the last 24 hours. Meanwhile, the health minister says…

A Midlands-North-West MEP has called for further supports to address the mental health needs of farmers in order to combat the high rate of suicide within the farming community. Maria Walsh says we know that rural isolation and mental health continues to be a…

Foxford & District Alzheimer's Trust have secured adequate funding to deliver on their promise to build a purpose built dementia specific daycare in Foxford. They have gone one step further and have also secured part funding from Pobal to provide a new 5 day…

The Restaurants Association says everyone needs to be 'on message' with inspections over the next 7 weeks to Christmas. It comes ahead of a meeting between the Government and the restaurant and pub trade on Tuesday to discuss covid rule breaking. New ESRI…

People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy says legislation's needed to incentivise farmers not to engage in industrialised beef and dairy farming. He believes instead, they should be taking part in sustainable, regenerative farming. He was among the thousands who…

A leading immunologist says Ireland would be back in lockdown now if it wasn't for our high Covid-19 vaccination rate. High levels of infection have continued -- with 3,685 people confirmed as positive for the virus yesterday. It's the fifth day in a row the…

A travel expert doesn't believe new rules for air passengers travelling to the US will cause too many headaches for passengers. The change in entry requirements for travel to the United States will take effect tomorrow. Aer Lingus says non-US citizens must be…

The Taoiseach and Tánaiste are both clear of Covid-19 -- having taken rapid tests as a precaution after the Green Party leader came down with the virus. Climate Action Minister Eamon Ryan won't be travelling to Glasgow after testing positive for covid 19.…

The Department of Health has confirmed a further 3,685 cases of Covid 19 today. It's also confirmed that the number of people being treated in hospital for Covid 19 is continuing to fall. Figures released today show there are now 444 people being treated in…

The Rural Ireland Organisation is among the groups taking part in the Cop 26 Coalition Ireland demonstration in Dublin City this afternoon. Leader of RIO Gerry Loftus has lambasted the Climate Action Plan agreed by Government during the week, claiming that…

The inclusion of information on further education and apprenticeships on the CAO Portal doesn’t address the real issues facing the sectors. That’s the view of Mayo Sinn Fein TD Rose Conway Walsh, who says government has acted as if the main problem facing…