Gardaí in Sligo investigating an alleged assault at Ballinode Sligo during the early hours of yesterday (Thursday) morning wish to speak to a group of four young people who were in the area at about 1.30am. As part of the investigation gardai have been…

The value of the Linenhall Theatre to Castlebar and the county, both on a cultural and economic level was outlined to members of Castlebar Municipal District, earlier this week, when the interim Director of the facility, Fiona Neary addressed the monthly…

51% of people say they will live their lives differently post covid pandemic. A new survey of 1000 people has found that a week on from the lifting of restrictions, 4 in 10 people say they'll be less inclined to shake hands or hug people into the future,…

The state will pay nearly 1 billion euro in social welfare to people who have 'long-Covid', according to an Independent TD. The Oireachtas Library and Research Service estimates about 115,000 people have had the condition, or will develop it. That's 10 per…

The number of Covid patients in public hospitals has fallen to the lowest level this year. The figure dropped to 678 last night - over a fifth less than a week ago. It exceeded 1,000 at the peak of the Omicron wave earlier this month.

Gardaí in Sligo are investigating an alleged serious sexual assault that occurred overnight Wednesday at a student accommodation complex close to IT Sligo. Gardaí sealed off a scene at the apartment complex which is adjacent to the college at Ballinode on the…

The decision of B. Braun Hospicare, Collooney to close its plant with the loss of 80 jobs, is very disappointing according to Sligo Leitrim TD and Minister of State, Frank Feighan. He says the company has made the decision based on logistical issues around…

Emergency action is needed to address the lack of dentists offering services to Medical Card patients. That’s according to Mayo deputy Rose Conway-Walsh. She claims that only one dental practice in Mayo is currently treating Medical Card patients and taking…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 5,265 PCR-confirmed cases of COVID-19. In addition, on Wednesday 26 January, 4,673 people registered a positive antigen test through the HSE portal. As of 8am today, 708 COVID-19 patients…

European health regulators have approved the use of Pfizer's pill 'Paxlovid' to treat Covid 19. It's authorised for treating adults who do not require supplemental oxygen but are at risk of developing severe disease. It's the first oral antiviral medicine to…

80 jobs are under threat at B. Braun Ireland in County Sligo. The company's told workers at its woundcare manufacturing site in Collooney today about a proposal to close the site on a phased basis, over the next year and a half. It's been in Ireland for over…

There were 9 serious injuries for every fatality on Irish roads, over a four year period. That's according to a new study from the Road Safety Authority, examining traffic collisions from 2017 to 2020. Dublin, Cork and Galway proved to have the highest number…

Three men have been arrested following the seizure of €8,600 worth of suspected cannabis herb, cocaine and cash in Castlerea yesterday. Gardaí were conducting a checkpoint at 4pm yesterday evening when they stopped a car and carried out a search under the…

The tourism networking event Meet Mayo North 2022 takes place in Ballina in March. The themes of recovery and sustainability in tourism will be to the fore at the Great National Hotel Ballina, on the day, Tuesday, March 29. It’s open to anyone with an…

There are 48 patients waiting on trolleys for admission to Galway University Hospital today. That’s according to the latest figures from the INMO. That’s the third highest number of patients on trolleys nationally. Across the region, patients presenting at…

A call to have the speed limit at Breaffy, Castlebar reduced to 60 km per hour was made again at yesterday’s (Wed) monthly meeting of Castlebar Municipal District, with the warning that there will be an escalated campaign to secure the reduction. A similar…

The Aran Islands have been named as one of the best honeymoon destinations for newly-weds in 2022. The islands, located off the west coast, ranked number seven in the top 10 best honeymoon destinations by Big 7 Travel. Described as a "must visit for any…

Midwest News believes a peaceful demonstration took place outside two primary schools in Westport this morning. The placard holding peaceful demonstrators were questioning why children in primary schools must continue to wear masks as Covid restrictions…

Mayo County councillors are demanding action from government to address what they insist is an unfair charge being imposed by Irish Water on many farmers in the county. New water charges for business customers have now been introduced by Irish Water…

A Bill to make stalking a standalone criminal offence will move one step closer to becoming law today. The Fianna Fáil proposal will move to Committee stage later, before going through the Dáil, and may be enacted within weeks. A person convicted of stalking…

A school’s previous exam performances may be taken into account if this year's leaving certificate takes a hybrid form. A decision is expected in the next week on the structure of leaving cert 2022, but it's reported that school profiling may form part of any…

The government's being warned against any plan to reduce the national herd, ahead of a meeting of farmers in Dublin later. Climate is set to dominate discussions at the Irish Farmers Association's AGM, which will be attended by the Taoiseach and Agriculture…

With up to a fourfold increase in passport applications projected for 2022, people looking to go abroad this summer should submit applications as soon as possible in order to avoid disruptions to travel plans, according to Minister of State Frank Feighan In…

Its emerged that wealthier households will not be able to give back the 100 euro energy credit, even if they want to. The credit is due to be applied to all domestic electricity bills in March, but there has been criticism that the universal grant is unfair…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 5,605 confirmed cases of COVID-19. In addition, yesterday (Tues) 4,809 people registered a positive antigen test through the HSE portal. There has been a total of 6,136 deaths related to…

The Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphreys has today announced that jobseeker payments will return to the post office in line with the easing of Covid-19 restrictions. The changes will apply initially to all new jobseeker applicants before being…

Charlie Bird says he is going to fight as hard as he can, despite his voice getting weaker. The former broadcaster, who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, is pressing ahead with plans to climb Croagh Patrick in April to raise funds for a number of…

A mother, and a Galway County Councillor is urging the Minister for Education to provide a hybrid exam model for Leaving Cert students this year. Sinn Fein will table a motion in the Dáil this evening calling on the government to introduce the same. Loughrea…

The man who had been missing, having last been seen in Castlebar on Saturday morning last has been located. Gardai have confirmed that Martin Sammon has been located safe and well and have thanked the public for their assistance.

The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation has called for direct intervention from the HSE and the Minister for Health as trolley numbers spiral out of control nationally. It comes as 549 patients are on hospital trolleys today, with 111 patients on trolleys…

The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in an increase in the number of women in Mayo seeking support due to domestic violence. That's according to the Mayo Women's Support Services, who've confirmed to Midwest News that they provided refuge accommodation for 28…

An act of vandalism that occurred in the community grounds, near the Friary in Ballyhaunis, has angered the local community. A public waste bin was uprooted in the grounds, earlier this week. Ballyhaunis Community Council took to its Facebook page to condemn…

Gardaí are appealing to the public for assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 67 year old Martin Sammon who was last seen in Castlebar, on Saturday morning last, 22nd January. Martin is described as being approximately 5 foot 9 inches in height, of thin…

The RNLI is urging people taking part in open water swimming to be aware of the risks, after four people were rescued in Sligo last winter. The four swimmers in Sligo found themselves in trouble in large swells. One person was recovered by the RNLI, one made…

 A call to have the speed limit at Breaffy, Castlebar reduced to 60 km per hour will be made again today at the monthly meeting of Castlebar Municipal District, with the warning that there will be an escalated campaign to secure the reduction. At today’s…

Gardai have confirmed that the Newport to Westport road is closed at present, following a collision earlier. The single-vehicle crash occurred at about 7am. It's understood no-one was seriously injured in the incident, but the road is blocked and diversions…

87% of employees in the West of Ireland would like to work remotely in the future. That's according to a recent CSO report, published ahead of proposed new legislation providing the right to request remote working. Tánaiste Leo Varadker unveiled the heads of…

Home help workers and carers should be included in the €1,000 Covid bonus payment being paid to frontline healthcare workers - that's the view of Mayo Fianna Fail TD Dara Calleary, who says details of the payment are still being finalised. Deputy Calleary…

The number of Covid patients in public hospitals has dropped by 27 per cent in the past two weeks. The figure fell to 725 last night - compared to 997 a fortnight ago. Galway University Hospital continues to treat the highest number of Covid-19 patients…

A further 9,218 new Covid-19 have been confirmed this evening. 4,006 are positive PCRs and 5,212 are positive antigens registered on the HSE portal. There are 824 people in hospital with the virus - a drop of 155 compared to this day last week. 79 are in ICU…

The Tanaiste says it's "nonsense" to suggest everyone should have a legal right to work from home. Workers will be entitled to request remote working under new laws being drafted by Government. Anyone working for a company for more than 6 months can apply -…

Sligo Gardai are continuing to appeal for information on an aggravated burglary in Skreen this day last week, in which a man was assaulted. The incident occurred at about 7pm last Tuesday evening, when a number of men entered a property in Skreen on the N59,…

Galway City Council’s meeting was briefly suspended yesterday after the Mayor of Galway was compared to Mussolini. A row broke out as councillors discussed the minutes of last month’s meeting. A dispute arose between the Mayor of Galway Independent Councillor…

The N59 has reopened to traffic in Galway following a road traffic collision on the Moycullen side of Roscahill. The crash occurred shortly before 8am this morning. Midwest News understands that the road was closed for a time, but has since reopened. No…

While the number of Covid patients in hospital is falling, there are increasing numbers of patients on trolleys in Emergency Departments. The number is over 500 today - the Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation is reporting 508 patients on hospital trolleys…

The Government has confirmed the continuation of the air search and rescue base in Sligo. In recent weeks, concerns were raised that the new tender process for the service could see the number of search & rescue bases in the country being reduced from 4 to 3…

The National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) is reminding the public the cutting, grubbing, burning or other destruction of “vegetation growing in any hedge or ditch” between 1st March and 31st August is prohibited. Suspected breaches are investigated by the…

A Mayo woman has been appointed Deputy President of the Veterinary Council of Ireland. Rachel Brown takes charge as second in command with immediate effect, assisting new President Vivienne Duggan. The two were appointed following an uncontested election by…

TedFest will return to Inis Mór, aka Craggy Island, on the 3rd of March. The 2022 celebration of all things Father Ted will include the usual Lovely Girls Competition as well as Ted's Got Talent and Blind Date. Tickets are now on sale for the 4-day festival.

Three Mayo students at NUI Galway have been awarded scholarships at a virtual ceremony as part of the Johnson & Johnson Ireland Women in STEM2D Award Programme. Brenda Chanza (Swinford), Aine Mitchell (Ballina), and Rida Naseer (Ballyhaunis) were among the…

The sudden easing of almost all the Covid restrictions at the weekend has caused "scheduling chaos" for the owners of large entertainment venues, and Pat Jennings of the TF Royal Theatre in Castlebar, describes it as “a welcome nightmare”. He says he is now…

Shaking hands and hugging immediate family members of the deceased remains off limits generally, as yet, at funeral homes. That’s according to David McGowan of McGowan’s Funeral Home in Ballina. David told Midwest News today that since the weekend easing of…

Restaurants and bars across the region are looking forward to an increase in customers over the coming days and weeks, following the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions last Saturday. The lifting of the 8pm curfew and the removal of the need for Covid certs were…

The Co Galway town of Tuam will see a major investment in two schools on the Dublin Road. Galway East Fianna Fail TD, and Minister for Disability Anne Rabbitte has welcomed news of a new building for Trinity Primary School with 41 classrooms - including 5 for…

445,000 children have not been registered for a Covid vaccine. The vast majority of them are aged between 5 and 11. The Covid vaccine portal opened for 5 to 11 year olds just over three weeks ago. The HSE says there are 482,000 children in this age-group.…

Government ministers are expected to sign off today on the legal changes needed for the € 100 electricity credit. The scheme will see that amount cut from every domestic electricity bill issued in March, in order to help people deal with spiralling energy…

Cabinet ministers will finalise new draft laws which give employees the legal right to request to work from home today. It'll set out the rights of staff to ask their bosses to be allowed to work remotely. However there is some concern around the grounds on…

A further 8,039 Covid-19 cases have been confirmed by the Department of Health this evening. 3,692 are PCR while a further 4,347 positive antigen tests have been registered through the HSE portal. 885 people are in hospital with the virus - 76 of them are in…

The Minister for Education has lost a Supreme Court appeal against findings that two home-schooled students were unfairly excluded from the Leaving Certificate calculated grades process in 2020. Education Minister Norma Foley had appealed against the Court of…

The National Transport Authority has allocated funding of over €5 million to Mayo County Council to invest in walking and cycling infrastructure. Mayo FG Deputy Michael Ring says 45 Active Travel projects in Mayo will receive funding, which will bring a…

There’s a real sense of optimism and hope, as the reality of a world with Covid restrictions almost gone, hits today. That’s the view of one young Castlebar business woman. Caroline Gaughan of Caroline’s Coffee Shop, Market Square told Midwest News Editor…

Tributes are being paid following the death of Fr Peter Maloney in Castlerea. Fr Maloney from Arm, Castlerea was a Divine Word Missionary priest who served in India for many years. In later years, he assisted in Castlerea and neighbouring parishes and was…

After nearly two years of restrictions, almost all COVID measures have finally been eased. While some measures such as mask-wearing will continue for now, the vast majority of others - including social distancing - have now been lifted. Associate Professor in…

 There is a surge in interest in booking international holidays again, since the majority of the Covid restrictions were dropped on Saturday last. Travel agents are reporting busy phone lines and customers coming back into the travel agencies to book their…

A nurse from Mayo has won a new car in a raffle organised by Down Syndrome Ireland. Joanne Moore, originally from Castlebar and living now in Strandhill, is Clinical Nurse Manager at the Neonatal Unit in Sligo University Hospital and has worked with many…

The number of Covid patients in hospital has risen by 40 over the past 24 hours. The current figure is 885 - compared to 845 yesterday. There are 81 patients with the virus at Galway University Hospital today- the highest total in the country. Elsewhere there…

13 primary and 13 secondary schools across Mayo will share a fund of €3.2m under this year’s Summer Works Scheme. Minister for Education Norma Foley TD announced the scheme today so that schools have a good lead-in period to plan and deliver the projects in…

The National Lottery have confirmed the winning selling locations of the three winning tickets in Friday night’s special EuroMillions Raffle draw which are worth €1 million each. The Galway player purchased their Normal Play ticket at the Spar store in…

A public health expert says the easing of almost all covid restrictions is 'the right thing to do'. Workers can return to offices on a phased basis starting today, while pubs, restaurants and nightclubs are already open at their usual times. Social distancing…

Sinn Fein is putting forward a Dail motion this week on recommending a hybrid model for the Leaving Cert. It wants to see a mix of written exams and accredited grades this year, ahead of further talks with the Education Minister. It comes after similar calls…

The Health and Safety Authority will be carrying out an increased number of farm visits over the next two weeks. The HSA says the inspection campaign coincides with calving season. Suckler farmers are being urged to have extra help available, and a plan in…

Funding of up to one million euro is being offered for coastal upgrade projects over the next two years. Local authorities in coastal areas are being encouraged to apply for government funding to improve pier and harbour infrastructure. The scheme will cover…

Gardaí are investigating allegations of a number of alleged sexual assaults on teenage girls near Sligo Town over the weekend. It’s reported that a house and part of a GAA grounds at Ballydoogan have been sealed off as potential crime scenes. Two teenagers…

Gardaí in Sligo are appealing for witnesses in relation to a number of alleged assaults that occurred near Sligo Town yesterday evening, Saturday, 22nd, January. Gardaí are keen to speak to anyone who was in the Ballydoogan, Oakfield and Maugheraboy areas of…

The recent increases in toll charges are putting another burden on already hard-pressed motorists and should be reversed. That's according to Galway East TD Sean Canney, who says motorists are already under pressure with increasing insurance costs, and fuel…

Searches for a missing Galway man have resumed and are underway in the Maam cross area. 32-year-old Stephen Cunningham has been missing since early November. His car, A Silver Volkswagen Passat was found at Bunnakill, Maam Cross. It is believed this car may…

Sligo County Council needs to prepare a plan for the return of live events across the county. That's the view of Fine Gael councillor Thomas Walsh who raised the matter at this month’s meeting of the local authority. Councillor Walsh says, as we see the…

The Department of Health has confirmed a further 4,731 cases of Covid 19 confirmed by PCR test. A further 3,395 people have also registered a positive antigen test online. There are 845 patients being treated in Irish hospitals with the virus, 79 of whom are…

The National Lottery have confirmed the locations of the three winning tickets in Friday night’s special EuroMillions Raffle draw. The winning tickets, worth €1 million each, were sold in Galway City and in two neighbouring towns in West Cork, Clonakilty and…

The company responsible for the Leaving Cert accredited grades process last year has been engaged with Department of Education officials about how to run a similar model this year, amid calls from students who want an exam alternative. While there is a…

There's a call on the Government to intervene to tackle skyrocketing fertilizer prices. Independent Cork South-West TD Michael Collins says the cost has soared from 300 euro per tonne to 900 euro. He says the spiralling price of fertliser will destroy Irish…

The Restaurants Association of Ireland is describing the lifting of restrictions as 'very positive' for hospitality. Almost all covid restrictions have been removed, with pubs, restaurants and nightclubs allowed return to normal hours. Digital Covid Certs…

The Department of Health has confirmed a further 6,689 cases of Covid 19 through PCR tests - while a further 3,911 people registered a positive antigen test online. The number of Covid patients being treated for Covid 19 in ICU has fallen to its lowest level…

The Chair of the Galway Vintners has welcomed the easing of restrictions as ‘fantastic news for everyone in rural Ireland’. Joe Sheridan of Walsh’ Bar in Dunmore says it’s time for businesses and society to repair and get back to a new normal. The Fianna Fail…

A Mayo-based disability rights activist is advising that the easing of restrictions will be met with concern from some cohorts. Achill woman Catherine Gallagher says that those with compromised immune systems and other underlying conditions still face a…

Two people were taken to hospital following a three vehicle road traffic collision in South Mayo this morning. Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of the crash on the N84 between Kilmaine and Ballinrobe. The incident occurred just outside…

Three people in Ireland have become millionaires following last night’s special Euromillions raffle draw. One was sold in Galway while two of the winning tickets were sold in Cork. The draw guaranteed 100 players across Europe would each win one of the…

Gardaí and emergency services are currently at the scene of a three vehicle road traffic collision on the N84 between Kilmaine and Ballinrobe. The incident occurred just outside Kilmaine in the Ballymartin area at around 10:55am this morning. Fire and…

A Galway man who refused to wear a mask during a flight from Dublin to New York and threw a can at another passenger faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted of assault, the US Justice Department said. 29-year-old Shane McInerney is alleged to have behaved…

SIPTU cleaners who work in public hospitals are to be rewarded for their efforts on the frontline during the pandemic. The union says the Tanaiste Leo Varadkar's given a commitment that they'll get the 1,000 euro covid bonus. The cleaners and other low paid…

Over 23 per cent of 5 to 11 year olds have been signed up for a Covid vaccine. They've been registered by their parents or guardians over the past three weeks. The portal only opened for this age-group on January 3rd, after NIAC gave it the green light last…

The number of people being treated for Covid 19 in Irish hospitals has fallen for the fifth day in a row. Today 836 patients are in hospital, a drop of 56 on yesterday. There are 77 patients with the virus at Galway University Hospital the highest in the…

Employees won't have a right to refuse to return to the office if it's in their contract of employment. A phased return to the workplace is due to start on Monday after a widespread easing of restrictions. From today bars and restaurants can return to normal…

An 'offshoot' of the Omicron variant of coronavirus is being monitored by UK officials. Although cases of BA-2 are still very low in Britain, it's taken hold in Denmark.

Gardai are renewing their appeal for witnesses following an aggravated burglary in Co Sligo on Tuesday evening. At about 7pm, a number of men forced their way into a property on the N59 in Skreen, and assaulted a man in his 70's. The victim was taken to Sligo…

The Taoiseach Micheál Martin has confirmed the lifting of nearly all restrictions from 6am tomorrow. The wearing of masks, where currently required, will continue, as advised by the National Public Health Emergency Team. The advice on close contacts, symptoms…

11,161 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed this evening. It includes 6,597 positive PCR tests, and 4,564 antigen tests. 892 Covid patients are in hospital, down four from yesterday, while the ICU figure is down two, to 88. Over 2.6 million boosters or…

The death of has taken place of Sligo's Donal O'Shea, former Chairperson of the North West Radio Group, a previous sister station to Midwest radio. Mr O’Shea was also a former CEO of the old North Western Health Board and held the position between 1972 and…

Gardaí seized €18,000 worth of suspected cocaine and cash in Castlebar yesterday under Operation Tara. The Mayo Divisional Drugs Unit seized €17,500 worth of suspected cocaine and approximately €500 in cash on lands in the Castlebar area shortly after 5.30pm…

A national consultation on the future development of Ireland’s railways is currently being conducted by the consultants Arup. This consultation is important for future rail connectivity along the Atlantic Economic Corridor. It is an opportunity for people in…

Former RTÉ news reporter Charlie Bird received an emotional welcome today from the 340 pupils at Scoil Phádraig Westport during a visit in advance of his ‘Climb With Charlie’ fundraiser on Croagh Patrick on 2nd April. The principal, staff and pupils invited…

The Mayo Vintners Chairman, Alan Gielty is delighted that normality is on its way back, as NPHET yesterday approved the easing of almost all Covid-19 restrictions. The government is expected to announce the timeline for the lifting of the restrictions later…

A public health expert says we must encourage the vaccination of children as a priority. Trinity College Dublin Associate Professor Tomás Ryan says this is because Omicron will still be spreading through our schools. 10,571 new cases of Covid-19 have been…

Galway East based Minister of State Anne Rabbitte has been dealing with an onslaught of online abuse in recent days, after she spoke in the Dail earlier this week about how she had felt physically threatened by a male in her Portumna constituency office last…

US singer Meat Loaf has died at the age of 74. A statement on his Facebook page says he passed away with his wife Deborah by his side. He sold over 100 million albums worldwide, featuring his well-known hits "Bat Out Of Hell" and "I'd Do Anything For Love".…

Mayo has the second highest Covid death rate nationally while Galway has the lowest number of deaths of people with the virus. Louth has the highest Covid death rate in the country. According to new figures, three of the top five counties are in the border…

NPHET has approved the easing of almost all Covid-19 restrictions with Cabinet Ministers meeting later to agree a timeline. It's expected the hospitality sector, including nightclubs, will return to normal opening hours over the coming days. There was relief…

The National Lottery are continuing to appeal to Lotto players in Mayo, Cork, and Limerick to check their tickets carefully from two draws in October as three Match 5 prizes remain unclaimed. Lotto players in Mayo are urged to check their old Lotto tickets…

A man was fatally injured in a three car collision in county Galway yesterday. The collision occurred near Athenry, on the M6 westbound between Junction 18 and Junction 19 at approximately 2pm yesterday afternoon. The driver of one of the cars, a man in his…

Gardaí in Collooney are investigating a number of incidents where moving vehicles have been hit with stones and eggs in the Collooney area of Sligo. In addition to damaging vehicles, gardai say such incidents pose a serious risk of injury to motorists and…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 5,523 new confirmed cases of COVID-19. In addition, on Wednesday 19 January, 5,048 people registered a positive antigen test through the HSE portal. As of 8am today, 896 COVID-19 patients…

The sudden death of Erris shopkeeper and pyrite campaigner, Michael Healy has shocked and saddened the local community. Michael, of Corclough West, Belmullet and Healy’s shop, Binghamstown, was one of the first people to highlight the pyrite issue in Mayo. He…

The death has taken place of one of Ireland's oldest women. Margaret Coleman nee Corcoran, a native of Fairymount in Co Roscommon, passed away earlier this week in her 106th year. As a young woman, she trained as a nurse in England and lived in the UK until…

A quicker than planned easing of Covid restrictions over the coming weeks is expected to be recommended after NPHET met this morning to consider the spread of the virus and what's possible over the coming weeks. It's expected the curfew on the hospitality…

Representatives of the National Ploughing Championships say they've had a very constructive meeting with the Taoiseach and Agriculture Minister. According to organisers the event is set for a huge comeback this year after a 2 year absence It's due to take…

A new Government scheme will open next week to support people working in the music sector, who've been badly impacted by the ongoing Covid pandemic. An additional €4 million has been allocated for the Music & Entertainment Assistance Scheme, and the opening…

Blanemore Forest Walk in Moygownagh will be closed to the public from 7th February for 8-10 weeks. Coillte will be temporarily closing the walking trail at the e woods, to facilitate the felling and safe extraction of timber (via the south entrance). Signage…

Since yesterday’s government announcement of an additional Public Holiday this year to acknowledge the contribution of all frontline workers over the past two years, and a once-off €1,000 tax free payment payment for healthcare workers who worked on the…

An easing of Covid restrictions will happen 'within days' according to the Public Expenditure Minister Michael McGrath. NPHET has been meeting today to make a series of recommendations to Government for exiting restrictions, and an announcement is expected…

The Co Sligo community of Skreen and Dromard are outraged that an elderly man was attacked earlier this week during a robbery at his property. That's according to Independent Councillor Michael Clarke. On Tuesday evening at about 7pm, a number of men forced…

The death has taken place of one of Ireland's oldest women. Margaret Coleman nee Corcoran, a native of Fairymount in Co Roscommon, passed away earlier this week in her 106th year. As a young woman, she trained as a nurse in England and lived in the UK until…

A medal presented to a Mayo woman for her part in the 1916 Rising is to go under the hammer. Renowned revolutionary Kathleen Lynn was born in Mullafarry, Killala and was the daughter of a Church of Ireland rector. She was educated at Alexandra College in…

Two men arrested in Galway following an €85,00 cash and drugs seizure have been released without charge. Shortly after 8pm on Tuesday evening, Gardai attached to the Galway Divisional Drugs Unit carried out a search under warrant at a house in the Ballybane…

Work is to start early next month on an enhancement scheme for the village of Cong. The Rising of the Waters project will cost in the region of €160,000 - and is being funded by the Town & Village Renewal Scheme and Mayo County Council. It will see the…

The people of Mayo have now donated over 45,000 Covid-19 vaccines to the world's poorest countries. UNICEF Ireland has revealed that Mayo people donated 18,000 vaccines at Christmas, under their "Get A Vaccine, Give A Vaccine" campaign - bringing the county's…

A key meeting of the advisory group on planning for the State exams is due to take place today. The State Exams Advisory Group is expected to hear the views of representative bodies and consider the most appropriate arrangements. The Minister for Education…

NPHET is expected to give the green light to the easing of Covid-19 restrictions when it meets later. The timeframe and manner at which measures like the 8pm curfew will be relaxed will form the basis of discussions. A final decision on any recommendations…

Two men have been arrested in Galway following the seizure of €85,500 worth of cash and drugs. Shortly after 8pm on Tuesday evening, Gardai attached to the Galway Divisional Drugs Unit carried out a search under warrant at a house in the Ballybane area. Over…

Thousands of properties in every county in the West and Northwest are vacant or derelict, despite Ireland's ongoing housing crisis. That's according to a new report from the Northern & Western Regional Assembly, which shows almost 45,000 properties are lying…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 6,843 confirmed cases of COVID-19. In addition, on Monday 17 January, 5,295 people registered a positive antigen test through the HSE portal. There has been a total of 6,087 deaths related…

The appointment has been announced of Bishop Michael Burrows as the new Church of Ireland Bishop of Tuam, Limerick and Killaloe. The Catholic Archbishop of Tuam Francis Duffy has welcomed the appointment saying Bishops Burrows begins his ministry here at an…

It’s frustrating that, just five months out from the beginning of the exam period, and as we enter the third calendar year of this pandemic, we are once again debating the way forward for the Leaving Certificate students. That’s the view of the Ombudsman for…

The number of Covid patients in hospital has fallen to its lowest level in over two weeks. The figure dropped to 910 this morning - after rising to 1,063 nine days ago. The highest in the entire pandemic was over 2,000, and that occurred a year ago. Donegal…

Healthcare staff who worked in situations where they were exposed to Covid-19 are set to get a 1,000 euro, tax-free pandemic bonus. It will include the likes of Defence Forces staff seconded to test centres and student nurses. Private hospice and nursing…

Family Carers Ireland has called on the government to recognise the vital role of family carers during Covid-19 in helping to keep loved ones safe by extending the €1,000 Covid bonus to all full time family carers. Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and…

The Cabinet has given the go-ahead for an extra Bank Holiday on March 18th this year - the day after St Patrick's Day. It will move to St Brigid's Day from 2023. Ministers also approved a once off, tax free € 1,000 bonus for frontline healthcare workers who…

It was Laura’s XL store in Castlebar that sold the lucky quick pick 19 million euro National Lottery ticket on Saturday last. The store is owned by local business woman Laura Scriney. Laura took to the helm of the business just over two years ago. The winner…

The winning weekend Lotto ticket, worth over €19 million, was a Quick Pick ticket bought on the day of the draw - last Saturday - at Laura's XL store on Hopkins Road in Castlebar. The National Lottery has confirmed that the winner has come forward, and is now…

A number of Leaving Cert students across counties Mayo and Roscommon are staying home from school today and taking part in a digital social media protest, as part of a call for a hybrid Leaving Cert to be held this year. Sixth year students are holding a…

A man has been arrested in connection with an investigation into organised crime in Sligo. The man who's in his mid 20s was arrested in Co. Galway yesterday. He's the second man to be questioned over the inquiry and is being detained at Sligo Garda station…

Local authorities in all coastal counties - including Mayo, Sligo and Galway - have been told they must keep dogs off their Blue Flag beaches if they want to maintain the coveted international award. Dogs, apart from assistance dogs, are already banned from…

Gardai are appealing for witnesses following an aggravated burglary in Co Sligo yesterday evening. At about 7pm, a number of men forced their way into a property on the N59 in Skreen, and assaulted a man in his 70's. The victim was taken to Sligo University…

Laura's XL store on Hopkins Road in Castlebar will be centre of attention today, as it's been revealed as the shop that sold the weekend Lotto ticket worth over €19 million. The store - run by Laura Scriney - is located just off Market Square in the town…

The National Lottery has confirmed the store that sold the weekend Lotto ticket worth over €19 million. The winning ticket was bought at Laura's XL store on Hopkins Road in Castlebar - opposite Dunnes Stores and adjacent to New Look. Midwest News can also…

11,683 new cases of Covid-19 have been reported in Ireland today. 5,767 of these were positive PCR tests, while 5,916 people registered a positive antigen tests through the HSE portal. There are currently 979 COVID patients in hospital, of which 93 patients…

The Health Minister says the Covid restrictions should be eased as soon as public health experts deem it possible. The National Public Health Emergency Team will meet on Thursday, with renewed confidence in Government that some restrictions can begin to…

Clonalis House in Castlerea has won a prestigious heritage award. The historic house and estate was the ancestral home of the O'Connor family, former Kings of Connacht and High Kings of Ireland. Clonalis House has been lovingly restored over the years, and…

A man in his 30s has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of Ashling Murphy. He had been treated in a Dublin hospital since last Thursday - after suffering self-inflicted injuries. The 23-year-old victim was killed last Wednesday while out for a run at a…

The shop in which the weekend 19 million euro winning Lotto ticket was bought in Castlebar will be revealed tomorrow (Wednesday) morning. The National Lottery Office says it will reveal the exact location early tomorrow morning, but has not indicated as yet,…

Mayo has the second-highest number of vacant houses in the country. The number of vacant dwellings in Ireland exceeded 90,000 at the end of last year - which represents over 4% of the national housing stock. Leitrim had the country's highest residential…

979 people in hospital with Covid-19 today, down 27 on yesterday’s figure. Galway University Hospital continues to have the highest number of Covid-positive patients nationally at 78- down 6 on the previous 24 hours. Elsewhere there are 33 patients with the…

Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Patrick O’Donovan, has announced the approval of applications under the Office of Public Works’ Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme to Galway, Leitrim and Sligo…

A Roscommon Galway Deputy is supporting calls from students to have this year’s Leaving Cert run in a hybrid format. Sinn Fein TD Claire Kerrane joined students from St Cuan’s College in Castleblackeney yesterday during their lunchtime demonstration on the…

There are 29 patients on trolleys today waiting for admission to Mayo University Hospital. That’s according to the latest trolley watch figures from the IMNO. Galway University Hospital has the second highest number of patients nationally today waiting on…

The closing dates for submissions to the All Island Strategic Rail Review consultation paper is this Friday (21st January) The consultation paper is deemed important for the future rail connectivity along the Atlantic Economic Corridor. For more details:…

The new 3.2 million euro extended A&E facilities at University Hospital, Sligo are now operational. The expansion consists of a modular two storey building at the front of the hospital with a new ED reception area, an area for COVID-19 assessment and a…

Cybersecurity company, Advantio is set to create 40 jobs over the next three years with the establishment of its HQ in Sligo. Advantio, was established in 2009 and is one of Europe’s leading privately owned Cybersecurity firms and is the Cybersecurity Partner…

Gardaí are investigating a burglary which was reported on Sunday at a residence in Lahardane. The incident is believed to have occurred at approximately 8.30pm. Damage was caused to a door at the property and a sum of cash was taken. No arrests have been made…

A campaign is under way in Mulranny to give legal protection to the Old Irish Goat, a rare species indigenous to Ireland. The breed is critically endangered, with an estimated population of less than 300, with the goat essentially being cross-bred out of…

An Oireachtas committee will today hear agriculture won't meet its emissions targets without new technology. The Department of Agriculture will say new farming methods are needed - and they're currently not in the marketplace. The sector is supposed to reduce…

A final decision on the format for this year's Leaving Cert will be made next week, according to a junior minister. A survey of students found over two thirds want a combination of accredited grades or the option of sitting the exams. At present, the Leaving…

A man appeared before a special sitting of Sligo District Court at 9pm last night. A man in his mid-30s was arrested at Dublin Airport on Tuesday last in connection with an investigation into organised crime. The man was detained at Sligo Garda Station under…

The Dept of Health has been notified of 6,329 confirmed cases of Covid 19 today from PCR tests. In addition, 4,810 people registered a positive antigen test yesterday through the HSE portal. There are currently 1,006 Covid patients in hospital,with 97 of…

The HSE is calling on people to get a booster dose this week, in a bid to reduce vaccine waste. As many as 220 thousand doses may have to be thrown away at the end of the month as they're due to expire. The surge in cases over Christmas has meant many people…

Gardai revealed today that a prosecution is pending in relation to the death of a 45-year-old Latvian national in Castlebar last year. Inspector Senan Wall told a coroner’s court that directions to prosecute had been received from the DPP in relation to the…

The Aer Lingus service from Ireland West Airport Knock to London, Gatwick was again suspended at the start of this month. The daily service is not running since January 5th and will not return until the 12th of March. The service only resumed last month,…

Eight shops in Mayo sold Match 5 plus Bonus tickets in last Saturday night's National Lottery Draw and each of those winners receives 36,687 euro. Day Break, Main Street, Castlebar was one of the eight, and a 15 million euro lotto ticket was sold in the same…

The identity of Ireland's largest ever national lotto win is not yet known. It was confirmed today by the National Lottery Office that the ticket was sold in Castlebar, however, where in Castlebar has not been revealed. Mayo's county town has had a…

The funeral has taken place of well-known journalist Jim Fahy, who worked as the RTE Western correspondent for many years. A native of Co Galway, Mr Fahy passed away on Friday evening at the age of 75, following a brief illness. His Funeral Mass at Tuam…

172 new jobs were created in Co Mayo last year by over 200 small businesses, supported by the Local Enterprise Office. The 2021 annual report for the Local Enterprise Offices shows the net jobs created in Mayo was 46. During a very difficult year for small…

Latest data from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre shows there were 2,232 new cases of Covid-19 in Mayo in the first week of the New Year. As a result of the surge in Omicron cases, there were almost 89,000 new cases identified nationally in the first…

Lotto excitement is at fever pitch in Castlebar - which has now been christened Europe's Luckiest Town, after it was confirmed this morning that the winning ticket in Saturday night's draw - worth over €19 million euro - was sold in Castlebar. The ticket…

Sligo-Leitrim Independent TD Marc MacSharry wants to see the curfew on the hospitality sector lifted as soon as possible. The former Fianna Fail backbencher has criticised suggestions that current covid restrictions will be lifted on a phased basis. Tanaiste…

Gardaí are investigating an incident of 'criminal damage' to the local golf club in Rosses Point, Co. Sligo at the weekend. A vehicle drove on the fairways and caused significant damage to the ground sometime after 9pm on Saturday night and Sunday morning.…

Incentives must be provided to young people and first-time buyers to purchase derelict properties in town centres, and refurbish them as family homes. That's according to Galway East Independent TD Sean Canney, who says we have a housing crisis, and yet there…

The Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney has asked for a report to investigate an image showing a gathering of officials in his department. The picture emerged of staff drinking champagne during lockdown in June 2020, after Ireland won a seat on the UN…

A public health expert says other viruses have not changed substantially in severity. DCU Professor of Health Systems Anthony Staines says Omicron has caused less havoc as we're vaccinated, but it doesn't stop it. He says it seems to be the nature of this…

Motorists are urged to take extreme caution on roads across the region this morning with frost and fog causing hazardous driving conditions. It was a frosty start with scattered patches of mist and fog throughout Connacht. Met Eireann says that any lingering…

Ireland's biggest lotto winning jackpot ticket was sold in Castlebar. Saturday night's jackpot of just over 19 million Euro had been rolling over since the start of June. There was one winner - with the numbers drawn being 2, 9, 16, 30, 37, 40 and the bonus…

The Department of Health has confirmed a further 10,753 new cases of Covid 19 with PCR tests - and 4,209 positive antigen tests logged online. The total figure of almost 15,000 is significantly down from the peak figure of over 26,000 cases on January 8th.…

The late RTE broadcaster Jim Fahy has been described 'as a giant of a man' by Chernobyl Children International. The 75 year-old former Western Editor has passed away after a short illness. CCI CEO, Adi Roche says he spread his generous heart far and wide to…

Over 400,000 booster vaccines held by Irish GPs will go out of date over the next few weeks if not administered, according to healthcare sources. There are an estimated 244,000 doses of Pfizer and 160,000 of Moderna in stock with expiration dates in the next…

The number of Covid patients in hospital has risen by 25, but remains below 1,000. It now stands at 965, with 89 of those patients in ICUs around the country. Meanwhile the Chief Medical Officer says masks can play a key role in reducing transmission of covid…

The funeral of Ashling Murphy will take place at St. Brigid's Church in Mountbolus, near Tullamore, on Tuesday. She was killed while out jogging on Wednesday, after finishing her teaching work for the day at a local primary school. The mass will be streamed…

Ireland's biggest lotto winning jackpot ticket was sold in Co. Mayo The jackpot of just over 19 million Euro had been rolling over since the start of June. There was one winner - with the numbers drawn being 2, 9, 16, 30, 37, 40 and the bonus was 23. Fran…

The owners of a Roscommon pub raided at night have urged anyone with information to contact Gardai. Kenny’s Bar in Ballintubber was ransacked in the early hours of Friday morning, with criminals making off with a quantity of cash, cigarettes and a number of…

The Department of Health has reported a further 19,961 cases of Covid-19. 14,555 of the infections were confirmed through a PCR test, while yesterday another 5,406 people registered a positive antigen test through the HSE portal. The Chief Medical Officer Dr…

A major union is calling for free antigen tests and high quality masks for workers in the retail, hospitality and the licensed trade industries as a matter of urgency. The Mandate Trade Union has written to all major retail employers and to the Minister for…

The Lotto jackpot of just over 19 million Euro will definitely be won tonight. No winning ticket has claimed the top prize since June 9th last resulting in 63 roll-over draws. The failure to produce a winning ticket has resulted in numerous complaints from…

Gardai have reportedly obtained DNA evidence that they believe will help them identify the person who murdered Ashling Murphy. The school teacher was killed while jogging near her home in Offaly on Wednesday. The Times reports that a forensic examination of a…

The number of people being treated in Irish hospitals for Covid 19 has fallen below a thousand for the first time in almost a week. This morning’s figures come as daily case numbers continue to fall, with just over 17,000 reported yesterday Latest figures…

The former RTE Western Editor Jim Fahy has passed away at the age of 75 after a short illness. He was the broadcaster's longest serving regional correspondent when he retired from the post 11 years ago. Jim began his career with the Tuam Herald and then began…

Gardaí attended the scene of a road traffic collision involving two vehicles on the M17 near Tuam this afternoon. The crash occurred at approximately 1:50pm on the Southbound lanes at Ballyglunin between junction 18 and 19. No serious injuries were reported…

The Department of Health has confirmed 17,065 new cases of COVID-19 today. 1,023 COVID-19 patients were in hospital as of 8am this morning, of whom 83 are in intensive care. To date, 59% of the adult population here have availed of a booster dose, compared…

There's a renewed effort to fundraise for charities supporting women affected by violence. Sweet Beat Café in Sligo will donate all proceeds from today's tea and coffee sales - to Women's Aid. So far the cafe has raised in excess of 600 euro for the cause and…

40 percent of Covid patients in Irish hospitals are unvaccinated and the group is "significantly over represented" in people who need ventilation. According to a survey by the Infectious Diseases Society of Ireland, 32 percent of unvaccinated patients require…

The Taoiseach says the 8pm closing time for hospitality businesses could be scrapped. The curfew has been in place for weeks in an effort to slow the spread of the Omicron variant. While cases surged over Christmas, officials are hopeful the peak of the wave…

An online book of condolence for the late Ashling Murphy has been opened on behalf of the people of County Galway. Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council Peter Keaveney has extended his sympathy to the Murphy family and all who knew Ashling. He has opened the…

Gardaí and emergency services are currently at the scene of a two vehicle collision on the M17 outside of Tuam. The crash occurred halfway between junction 18 and 19 on the motorway southbound just before 2pm this afternoon. Midwest News understands that the…

LISTEN: Paul Devaney, one of last years Operation Transformation leaders says if you don't like the programme don't watch it. One year on, Paul has no regrets and firmly believes that the programme made a huge difference to his life. Paul was speaking to…

The head of the HSE says there are "positive indications" Ireland has reached the peak of the Omicron wave. Paul Reid says the rise in Covid hospitaliations has steadied and there has been a reduction in GP referrals for testing. Latest figures show 1,011…

All the local electoral areas (LEAs) in Mayo had below the national average incident rate of Covid 19 over the past month, according to the latest HSE figures, however, that does not reflect the many who did not get a PCR test and tested positive for the…

A Galway city councillor is highlighted in new research for receiving the most amount of abuse in response to comments she posted online. Galway City Fine Gael Councillor Clodagh Higgins and Dublin Green Party Councillor Hazel Chu were highlighted for…

Aldi is creating up to 28 new jobs in County Mayo in 2022. It follows the announcement by the retailer that it is seeking to recruit and train 600 new store employees throughout 2022, to support its ongoing growth and expansion in Ireland. Aldi will increase…

Castlebar Mitchels Ladies LGFA take on Castleisland Desmonds of Kerry in the All-Ireland Club intermediate championship final in Castlebar on Saturday week, January 22, at 1 p.m. In an appeal to the community to give the squad every support in its bid for…

There has been a national and local outpouring of grief, shock and anger over the last 48 hours over the murder of Aisling Murphy, a 23-year-old primary school teacher from Tullamore in county Offaly, who was attacked and killed on the banks of the Grand…

Work is to get underway shortly by Mayo County Council on the Straide Village Enhancement Project, part of the Town & Village Renewable scheme. Castlebar Fine Gael councillor Donna Sheridan says it’s a very welcome development for Straide, a village of huge…

National Women's Council Director Orla O'Connor said Ashling Murphy ’s death has shocked the entire nation. “We have been inundated with contacts by women and men who really want to express their support to the family and also, they want to publicly show that…

The Australian government has cancelled Novak Djokovic's visa for a second time, with immigration minister Alex Hawke saying he "carefully considered" all information before arriving at the decision. The world number one had been waiting since a judge…

Hundreds of people attended a vigil in memory of Ashling Murphy in Galway last night. The crowd gathered at the Browne Archway at the top of the public plaza. Many brought flowers and candles to commemorate the 23-year-old teacher, who was murdered in…

A bill is due to be launched today will seek to force employers to provide free medical grade masks for workers. The bill is being proposed by People Before Profit would ensure employers provide employees with FFP-2 grade masks or higher, in particular to…

New rules around close contacts and testing come into effect today. Among the changes, people who've had a booster and don't have symptoms no longer need to self-isolate. These new recommendations mean asymptomatic close contacts who've been boosted no…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 18,904 confirmed cases of COVID-19. As of 8am today, 1,011 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, 92 of whom are in ICU. Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health says: It is…

People who enter positive antigen test results to the HSE portal will NOT be eligible for a recovery digital Covid certificate. Earlier today Minister Donnelly had said the portal may be open to incorrect information and would have to rely on the goodwill of…

Representatives from the hospitality sector in Sligo are calling on the government to scrap the 8 pm closing time. They say customers can travel across the border where opening hours are less restrictive. Pub and restaurant owners believe it's having a…

 Across the country many remain stunned and saddened at the shocking news from Tullamore in Co Offaly, yesterday evening, that a 23-year old teacher was attacked and killed while out jogging along the canal. Gardai say no stone will be left unturned in…

The logging of positive antigen tests on a HSE portal is open to misuse, according to the Health Minister. A system will be running from tomorrow to allow 4 to 39 year olds register a positive rapid test and log their close contacts. There will be no need…

The HSE says staff shortages is like tackling this wave of the pandemic with one hand tied behind your back. It's estimated that 15,000 healthcare workers and admin staff are absent due to covid. 1,011 Covid patients are in hospitals today, while there are…

Urgent GP referrals for patients to secure a mammogram are now taking up to 12 weeks to secure, and that is totally unacceptable, according to Mayo deputy Rose Conway Walsh. The Sinn Fein deputy said she listened in dismay to a woman on our Lunchtime News…

The public want and deserve to know how and why Mayo county council had to hand back more than one million euro allocated from Government, for projects in the county not completed, and pay penalties for failing to comply with the rules of a funding scheme.…

A man who sexually assaulted his teenage cousin in the grounds of a church in Galway city has been jailed for 30 months. The 32-year old man, who cannot be named to protect the woman's identity, pleaded guilty to engaging in a sexual act with a child under…

The seven-month rollover of the 19 million euro lotto jackpot will end this Saturday with one or more winners. The National Lottery has confirmed it will hold a must-win draw this Saturday nigiht and, if the prize isn't won outright, the full value of the…

Galway County Council has lodged a planning application with An Bord Pleanala for the realignment of a section of the N17 between Milltown and Ballindine. The 3km section from Milltown to Gortnagunned is very narrow and not fit for purpose, according to…

A Castlebar councillor is appealing to the HSE not to relocate the Mayo PCR Covid Testing Centre - which is now at MacHale Park - out to the Breaffy Resort Vaccination Centre. Before Christmas, the HSE stated that the test centre would be re-locating in the…

Changes to the isolation rules on close contacts take effect from midnight tonight. It will see thousands of people who've received a booster able to avoid having to self-isolate, if they don't have symptoms. However they'll be required to take antigen tests…

he Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 20,909 confirmed cases of COVID-19. As of 8am today, 1,055 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, 92 of whom are in ICU. There has been a total of 6,035 deaths related to COVID-19 notified in…

The Cabinet has approved a bill to establish a watchdog to oversee complaints about social media companies. The Online Safety Commissioner will be tasked with managing harmful content online and the regulation of TV and radio stations. However, whether…

A tracing service which will help adopted people find their family members will be set up later this year. It's part of a new move by the government to finally allow adopted people full legal access to their birth records. The service will also give access…

A Westport hotelier has welcomed the changes to close contact isolation rules approved by Cabinet Ministers earlier today. The new regime will come into place from midnight tomorrow. It means close contacts who have received a Covid booster jab, and who have…

Singer Daniel O’Donnell has become the latest celebrity to join Charlie Bird’s Croagh Patrick climb challenge. The former RTÉ correspondent has organised a climb on Ireland’s most sacred mountain in aid of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and Pieta…

Changes to the isolation periods for Covid-19 have been approved today by cabinet and will take effect from midnight tomorrow (Thurs). The decision brings an end to the five day isolation period for fully vaccinated close contacts who do not have any Covid-19…

Mayo County Council secures SEAI Energy Efficiency Measures Award. The plaques were presented by Project Coordinators Clár ICH. This project was funded by SEAI’s Community Scheme and represents a unique partnership between Board Na Mona and Mayo County…

A new empirical evidence-based report on Irish post-primary students’ knowledge of algebra identifies strengths and weaknesses in their knowledge of the subject and proposes recommendations to address the weaknesses. The report finds that students have good…

There is now a 12 month delay in woman aged 50 and over securing an appointment with the cancer screening service, BreastCheck. A listener to Midwest News discovered the significant delay, when she sought information about a Breast Check appointment she was…

This year's Leaving Cert students should once again be offered the choice between predicted grades and sitting the written exams. That's the view of Mayo Sinn Fein deputy Rose Conway-Walsh, who was reacting to reports this morning that the State Examinations…

The cost of a used car in Ireland has increased to an all time high. According to the latest DoneDeal Car Price Index, the cost of a second hand car has risen by 56 percent since January 2020. The Index also points out that, in some cases, a second-hand…

Students from four Mayo secondary schools are participating in the BT Young Scientist & Technology, which gets underway today and runs until Friday. It's a virtual exhibition again this year, with 550 projects chosen from 219 schools in 29 counties. Students…

The conditions students have to endure in schools across the region as a result of Covid-19 precautions are of increasing concern. That's according to Roscommon-Galway TD Michael Fitzmaurice, who's received an increasing number of calls from concerned…

Due to the impact of Covid-19 on heavy goods vehicle operations, the Road Safety Authority and Department of Transport have agreed to allow a temporary relaxation in driving and resting times for HGV drivers. The derogation comes due to a driver shortage…

The Department of Health yesterday reported 19,290 new cases of Covid-19. 1,062 people were in hospital with the virus yesterday - that was down to 997 last night. Galway University Hospital is now treating the highest number of Covid patients nationally at…

The State Exams Commission says it won't be possible to rerun last year's hybrid Leaving Cert model, giving students a choice between accredited grades and sitting written exams in the Summer. The Irish Times reports the cancellation of the Junior Cert in…

Ministers are to approve a number of changes to the Covid-19 testing regime and rules around close contacts when they meet this morning. The Chief Medical Officer has recommended getting rid of the five day isolation period for asymptomatic close contacts of…

Boosted close contacts who don't have Covid-19 symptoms will no longer have to restrict their movements, under plans going to Cabinet tomorrow. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly will also propose those with a positive antigen test won't have to get a PCR test…

The Department of Health has reported 19,290 new cases of Covid-19. 1,062 people are currently in hospital with the virus, of whom 92 are being treated in ICU. Latest figures show 51.6 percent of PCR tests carried out in the past week were positive. More than…

The Tánaiste has said he supports reducing the time period some close contacts are required to isolate. Updated advice is expected from the Chief Medical Officer today for Cabinet to consider tomorrow. The guidance may include a reduced isolation period for…

As debate continues over the format this year's Leaving Cert should take, one Mayo student is calling for a hybrid model - where students could choose between accredited grades or sitting the exams - or both. The Teachers Union of Ireland has called for the…

The Tánaiste has said he supports reducing the time period some close contacts are required to isolate. Updated advice is expected from the Chief Medical Officer today for Cabinet to consider tomorrow. The guidance may include a reduced isolation period for…

The National Lottery is again urging players in the Claremorris area to check their tickets, as time is running out to claim a prize won in October. The winning ticket was sold at the Centra store on Lower James St in Claremorris on Tuesday 26th October, and…

Work is to get underway on a new Outdoor dining project in Market Square, Castlebar. Local councillor Donna Sheridan says the new development is very exciting and is being undertaken by Mayo county council working with Failte Ireland. A new weatherproof…

1,062 Covid patients are being treated in hospitals today - down one from yesterday. However, the total is still 20 percent higher than last Tuesday. There are 70 patients with the virus at Galway University Hospital today- the second highest in the country…

A new data centre is to be located at the former Asahi site in Killala, and looks set to be up and running by late 2024. At yesterday’s online monthly meeting of Mayo County Council, councillors approved the sale of two plots of council land for the…

The Irish Community Air Ambulance was tasked 512 times across 14 counties last year - making it the busiest year since the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service air ambulance launched in 2019. The organisation is Ireland's only charity-funded HEMS air…

Gardai are investigating an incident of false imprisonment in Claremorris on Sunday evening. Four men were arrested in Co Roscommon later that evening - including a man in his mid-30's, one in his early 40's, one in his late teens and a juvenile in his late…

More than 150,000 public service workers are in line for a reduction in their working week from July. It's after review by an Independent Body has recommended extra unpaid hours introduced in 2013 are reversed. The government will consider the proposal, which…

A workers union says any changes to isolation rules for Covid close contacts must be led by public health advice and not the demands of business. The Cabinet's expected to consider new advice from experts on easing the restrictions when it meets tomorrow. It…

The number of confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the country has surpassed one million. Yesterday, a further 23,909 cases of the virus were confirmed. More than 1,000 Covid patients are in hospital, with 89 of those in intensive care. Yesterday the Taoiseach…

Mayo Senator Lisa Chambers has been appointed to a new Northern Ireland and Good Friday Agreement Committee, being set up by Taoiseach Míchéal Martin. A group of just eight TDs and Senators have been asked to sit on this specialist committee, which will…

Mayo has the lowest 7-day incidence rate of Covid-19 in Connacht, according to the latest data from the HPSC. The rate of infection in the county in the last week of 2021 was 1,172 per 100,000 people, accounting for 1,530 cases of the virus. This is lower…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 23,909 confirmed cases of COVID-19. As of 8am today, 1,063 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of whom 89 are in ICU. The Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan says it's essential that…

Mayo Gardai who are investigating an incident of false imprisonment in Claremorris yesterday evening have arrested four men. The four - including a man in his mid-30's, one in his early 40's, one in his late teens and a juvenile in his late teens - were…

Mayo county councillors have agreed to the sale of two plots of lands in the Killala area for the potential development of the first data centre in the west. Proposals to develop the Mayo Green Data Hub at the Killala Business Park is very exciting, according…

The Taoiseach has said he would prefer not to go down the route of mandatory vaccinations. The issue is being examined by the Department of Health after being discussed by NPHET. A number of countries have considered making Covid vaccination mandatory for…

A special meeting of Mayo County Council will take place at the end of next month (February) to discuss the action plan that council management has in place to ensure that the authority does not again have to hand back monies allocated from government for…

Second-level students in Mayo and their families are invited to a free live webinar this Wednesday evening with renowned careers expert, Irish Times columnist Brian Mooney. "What Students Need to Know" is the title of the webinar which is free of charge for…

228 people have died from Covid-19 in Co Mayo since the start of the pandemic. A new report from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre shows the number of deaths in each county, since March 2020. The figure for Mayo is 228, which represents 174 deaths per…

Visits at Castlerea Prison, and all other prisons in the State, are being suspended for the next two weeks, due to the spread of Covid-19. All physical family visits are cancelled until Monday 24th January. However, video visits will continue, with prisoners…

Two young local entrepreneurs have won a prestigious prize worth €10,000, which has also resulted in their clothing range being sold in Arnotts. 20-year old Peter Timlin from Ballina and his 21-year old business partner Richard Grimes from Enniscrone are…

New HSE guidelines on visits to nursing homes may lead to further uncertainty and inconsistency around visiting arrangements at some facilities. That’s the warning coming from Sage Advocacy, who are alarmed that some nursing home providers may be denying…

University Hospital Galway has the joint second highest number of patients on trolleys awaiting beds nationally. There are 44 patients awaiting admission for a bed at the Galway facility and at Letterkenny University Hospital today. University Hospital…

It's emerged some NPHET members did NOT agree with earlier closing times for hospitality, introduced last month. Minutes from December 16th's meeting of public health officials show some voiced concern, saying such strict measures were "disproportionate" by…

Over a thousand people with Covid are in hospital for the first time since last February. There are 1,004 patients being treated - an increase of 20 since yesterday. 82 people with the virus are in intensive care - down one. HSE chief executive Paul Reid says…

Gardaí are investigating an aggravated robbery which occurred in County Roscommon on Friday evening. The incident occurred on the N4 between Carrick on Shannon and Boyle in the vicinity of Carrick on Shannon Golf Club and Drumharlow Lake between 5.30pm to…

The green light has been given by councillors in the Ballina Municipal District for a derelict site in Ballina town to be transformed into an outdoor performance space The plan was put before elected councillors at a recent monthly meeting of the authority,…

Visitors are advised to regularly self-test for Covid-19 before entering nursing homes. It's part of new HSE recommendations which take effect today. Sage Advocacy's warning these new HSE guidelines may lead to further uncertainty and inconsistency around…

All visits to prisons have been suspended from today for the next two weeks. The Irish Prison Service says all physical visits up to January 24th are now cancelled due to the widespread community transmission of Covid-19. It says video visits will continue to…

The government's being urged to ease Covid restrictions on outdoor dining. At the moment, hospitality venues like pubs, restaurants and bars have to close at 8pm. Gary Smith, owner of Michael's Restaurant in Mount Merrion in Dublin, says venues have spent a…

NPHET's set to consider whether mandatory vaccination should be introduced. The Irish Times reports it'll look at the measure after it receives details from the Department of Health on legal and ethical aspects of such a move. Ireland has one of the highest…

Retail Ireland's calling for a change to close contact rules, with an update due to be given this week. The Tanaiste Leo Varadkar says the Government has some options to consider in new guidance from the European Centre for Disease and Control. Retail Ireland…

Gardaí attended a road traffic collision near the Slip in Sligo last night. The collision occurred at approximately 7.35pm. A car collided with a building in the area. No injuries were reported.

The Department of Health has reported 21,384 new confirmed cases of Covid-19 today. 984 people are in hospital with the virus, of whom 83 are being treated in ICU. As demand for PCR tests continues, the HSE this week estimated that up to 150-thousand Covid-19…

The new Archbishop of Tuam will be installed this afternoon. Archbishop Francis Duffy takes over from outgoing Archbishop Michael Neary who held the position for the past 27 years. The new archbishop will be installed during 2.30 Mass this afternoon in Tuam…

A woman missing from her home in Drumshanbo in Leitrim since Thursday evening has been located. 46-year-old Devon Mac Gillivray was found safe and well. Gardaí have thanked the public and media for their assistance in this matter.

An elderly woman who went missing from Mayo University Hospital last night has been located. Gardaí issued an appeal for assistance in tracing her whereabouts early this morning. She was last seen on the grounds of the hospital at 9:10pm last night. A search…

Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 46-year-old Devon Mac Gillivray, who was last seen in her home in Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim on Thursday evening last.Devon is described as being 5 feet 10 in height, and of slim build.She…

The Department of Health has confirmed the highest daily number of Covid cases since the Pandemic began. Figures released this afternoon show 26,122 new cases of the virus, confirmed with PCR tests. Today's record breaking case count is widely expected to be…

Mayo native Dr Mike Ryan of the World Health Organisation has been presented with a Presidential Distinguished Service Award - in recognition of his service to global public health over a number of decades. Dr Ryan - who grew up in Charlestown - visited Áras…

A new 5-year tourism plan is being developed for the North Mayo & Erris region. Fáilte Ireland will put the plan out to tender next Spring, according to Mayo Fianna Fail TD Dara Calleary, who says extra focus is needed on the many facilities, amenities and…

The education minister says teachers should open windows "at a lower level" if their classrooms are cold. Ventilation requirements for pandemic safety have seen some room temperatures dip below seven degrees Celsius this week. Health and safety rules require…

The Psychiatric Nurses Association is calling for its members to be prioritised for PCR testing. The union estimates up to 600 nurses in mental health services are absent due to Covid-19. The PNA says staff shortages are causing unprecedented and…

Jury trials, pharmacy opening hours and post deliveries have all been delayed in recent days because of staff shortages. The number of people isolating means the Courts Service has had to postpone jury trials in the Central and Circuit courts until later this…

Over 380 thousand households have failed to file a property tax return, despite a high profile campaign by Revenue last year. The failure to report means those households are now likely underpaying their property tax. November 10th last was when every…

The number of people being treated in Irish hospitals for Covid 19 has fallen for the second day in a row. This morning 917 people are being treated for the disease in the country's health system - a drop of 24 since Thursday. 84 people are currently being…

Online registration for Covid-19 vaccination for all children aged five to eleven is now open. Parents and guardians can register their children through the HSE's website. The Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan is encouraging parents to engage with the…

A Public health expert says the risk of long covid shows the need to do everything to minimise the risk of infection. Professor Ivan Perry from UCC believes there will be a significant burden of long covid from the Omicron wave here. It comes as 21,926 new…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 21,926 new confirmed cases of COVID-19. As of 8am today, 936 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised nationally, of which 84 are in ICU.

Supreme Court judge, Mr Justice Séamus Woulfe, has told the Golfgate trial that he didn't see anything at the event that evening that gave him cause for concern. He was giving evidence at the trial of two politicians and two hoteliers, who were accused of…

Pharmacies are encouraging people to order medicines in advance, due to the strain of staff absences. The Irish Pharmacies Union says the Omicron wave's placing them under significant pressure, and is resulting in reduced hours or temporary store closures.…

Tonight’s Late Late Show on RTE television will opened with a performance by Mayo’s Clew Bay Pipe Band. Charlie Bird will in studio again with host Ryan Tubridy and his climbing volunteers to launch the inaugural Climb with Charlie Event. Charlie has spoken…

Third level colleges will re-open on Monday as planned. It follows a meeting between Higher Education Minister Simon Harris and student, staff and management representatives today. The re-opening will be staggered with five colleges returning on Monday and…