Seven more people are known to have died from Covid-19, and there are 243 new confirmed cases. The fortnightly infection rate in the Republic per hundred thousand has continued to fall after slipping under 100 yesterday and it's now down to 93.7. 91 of the…

There are not enough gardai on the ground in East Mayo, that’s the view of Mayo Fianna Fail deputy Dara Calleary and he raised his concerns at yesterday’s county Joint Policing Committee. The deputy says that the lack of community gardai in towns like…

Despite the Covid Restrictions Ballina Chamber have an exciting Christmas schedule planned. The Christmas Lights will be turned on this evening by Cathaoirleach Seamus Weir at 5pm and will be broadcast online. Mags Downey of Ballina Chamber says all the local…

People are being asked to wear face masks outdoors in crowded areas for the first time. The recommendation from Government also applies to other settings including busy workplaces and places of worship. The Irish College of General Practitioners is reminding…

Public health doctors have voted 94 percent in favour of strike action in a long-running row over inadequate staffing and resources. They claim the Government is failing to provide consultant contracts for specialists who play a key role in the battle against…

The Tánaiste has said he didn't instruct Justice Minister Helen McEntee to recommend Seamus Woulfe be appointed to the Supreme Court. It's after the Minister revealed Leo Varadkar told her Mr Woulfe would make a very good judge as she was considering the…

The country will move to Level Three restrictions next Tuesday December first. It means retail, gyms, golf courses, hairdressers, cinemas, theatres and places of worship can open. From next Friday restaurants and pubs that serve food will be allowed to open.…

A man has died in a house fire in Co Roscommon. The blaze broke out at a home in Ballyleague late last night. Gardai and emergency services attended the scene shortly before midnight - a man in his 60s was pronounced dead a short time later. His body has…

There are 206 new cases of Covid-19 in the Republic - the lowest daily total in over two months. 64 are in Dublin, with 23 in Limerick, 20 in Donegal, and the others are spread across 21 other counties. There are five new cases in Galway with less than five…

Drug crime detections have increased significantly in Mayo this year. Sale and supply cases have increased by 160% with 78 detections in 2020. There were 222 drug possession arrests this year (up by 100%). These figures were outlined today at a meeting of the…

A 44-year-old man has been charged with the capital murder of a Detective Garda in Castlerea, Co Roscommon. Stephen Silver made no reply when charged by Gardai following the fatal shooting incident in the town on June 17th last. The mechanic, with an address…

The Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District has this lunchtime announced the details of the Christmas free parking incentives that will be in the county town from December 8th through to December 24th. Cathaoirleach Blackie Gavin says that there will be…

Mayo County Council was recognised as the Local Authority of the Year at the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards. The local authority also won in a record three categories; Making Positive Choices in the Health & Wellbeing category, Weather…

SAGE advocacy is hopeful that visitation restrictions will be eased at nursing homes as we exit Level 5 restrictions. Early indications suggest that one visitor per week will be allowed to residents of homes. The support service for the elderly claims…

Ballyhaunis Chamber of Commerce is launching their "Five o'clock Fridays" today. This new initiative is an effort to assist businesses in Ballyhaunis and the surrounding areas to get their message out to the public in these difficult times. All businesses in…

There are no respite beds at Ballina District Hospital and the Palliative Care units at the facility are available throughout the pandemic if required, according to Breda Crehan-Roche, Chief Officer, Community Healthcare West. Ms Crehan-Roche was responding…

Five areas in Co Mayo are the first in the county connected under the Government's National Broadband Plan, and will be launched on 11th December. The five sites launching on that date are - Bofeenaun, Clare Island, Islandeady, Killasser and Taugheen…

Eight districts have recorded fewer than five cases of Covid-19 in the latest local data released on the pandemic, which represents four times as many areas as last week. Three of them reside in County Mayo. But one part of Donegal still has three times the…

The Government is to make an announcement today on lifting level 5 restrictions. Nphet wants restaurants and pubs to only offer takeaway in December but the Government's expected to go against the advice and open them. It comes as 335 new cases have been…

There are calls for the Tanaiste to clarify his conversations with the Justice Minister on the appointment of Supreme Court judge Seamus Woulfe. Helen McEntee says Leo Varadkar told her Mr Woulfe would make a good judge, before she had seen the other…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 3 additional deaths related to COVID-19. As of midnight last night (Wed), it has been notified of 335 new confirmed cases of the virus. Of the cases notified today, 119 are in Dublin, 29 in…

The leading Irishman in the World Health Organisation has warned that there are no easy answers when it comes to easing coronavirus restrictions for Christmas. It comes as the Government prepares to announce its plan for lifting Level Five restrictions over…

Concerns have been raised by the National Public Health Emergency Team over the planned re-opening of the economy next week. Government is due to make an announcement about exiting level 5 tomorrow evening. NPHET is particularly concerned about the reopening…

A major new development for Scoil Naomh Bríd, Culleens, Ballina is to proceed to tender. The new 2500sqm single story school building will include construction of 12 new classrooms, special needs unit, on-site parking provisions, parking, landscaping,…

Irish Water has this afternoon lifted the boil water notice issued on the Lough Talt public water supply with immediate effect to benefit approximately 13,000 customers. Lifting the notice, in place since January 2019, will also benefit consumers supplied by…

The number of patients on trolleys at Sligo University Hospital has risen to 24 today - the second highest in the country. The latest trolley figures from the Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation shows 177 patients on trolleys waiting for beds at hospitals…

31,000 people, whose driver theory tests were postponed, need to be first-in-line when Covid restrictions ease. That's according to Mayo Sinn Fein TD Rose Conway-Walsh, who says it's unfair that those who had their theory test cancelled due to lockdown are…

A Sligo TD says she's angry, following comments made by the CEO of telecommunications firm Eir in relation to their call centre in Sligo. The Eir CEO said Sligo didn't have the experience of customer centres before Eir, and it therefore took longer to train…

No funding has been provided for mental health services in Mayo, Roscommon or Galway this year under the HSE’s Winter Plan, and according to the Assistant General Secretary of FORSA, Galway based Padraig Mulligan, the situation is completely unacceptable. The…

Four Mayo artists have been selected for a public art commission, recognising the ongoing impact of Covid-19 on Co Mayo. "Navigating A Future" is the title of the Mayo County Council commission, which gives the artists an opportunity to create new work that…

There’s some good news for shoppers heading to the county town this Christmas. Castlebar Municipal District councillors yesterday approved free car parking hours in local authority car parks in Castlebar from mid to late December. Local Fine Gael Councillor…

The Cabinet sub-committee on Covid-19 will meet this evening to finalise plans to exit level five Covid restrictions next week, ahead of a full Cabinet meeting and subsequent announcement tomorrow. It's believed shops, gyms and hairdressers will be the first…

Power outages were reported in separate areas of East Mayo last night. It's understood about 8,000 homes were without power following a fault in the Claremorris & Kiltimagh areas. A second fault left homes in the Knock and Hollymount areas without power…

There have been six more deaths and 269 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in the Republic this evening. Of the cases notified since midnight last night (Tues) 88 of the cases are in Dublin, 42 in Cork, 25 in Limerick, 20 in Louth, 16 in Donegal and…

The first of several High Court actions over substandard audiology services for children in the west of Ireland has been settled. The court approved a €450,000 settlement in the case of a 13-year-old boy who has a lifelong impairment because of inadequate…

A significant number of staff remain on Covid leave from a HSE nursing home in Ballina, according to Breda Crehan- Roche the Chief Officer with Community Healthcare West. At a Regional Health West meeting yesterday, in response to a written question from…

The death occurred overnight of county Galway woman Patricia Carrick. Patricia, of Oranmore, had campaigned for women nationally through her High Court case over a smear test which was misread. The case and her family's activism exposed serious questions…

Ashford Castle in Cong has been singled out for an award in recognition of the way in which it has championed and supported its guests throughout 2020 and specifically, in the face of the pandemic. The team at Ashford Castle was today announced Leading Hotels…

Sligo University Hospital has the 3rd highest number of patients on trolleys today. According to the latest trolley figures from the INMO, there are 23 patients on trolleys today at the Sligo hospital waiting for admission to a bed. Only Limerick and Cork…

Over 1,300 people have tested positive for Covid-19 in Mayo. That's according to information provided at yesterday's virtual meeting of the HSE Regional Forum. Following a question from Castlebar Independent Councillor Michael Kilcoyne, the HSE said the total…

Irish band Fontaines D.C. have been nominated for a Grammy award. The band's second album 'A Hero's Death' has been nominated for Best Rock Album. The awards will take place on Sunday the 31st of January. Two of the 5-man band - bass player Conor Deegan and…

The Environmental Protection Agency is warning that the future of Ireland's environment is 'not optimistic' unless urgent action is taken. The report says some bird species - such as the curlew - are under threat, and air quality doesn't meet WHO standards in…

Charlestown native Dr Mike Ryan is to be awarded the Bar of Ireland Human Rights Award tomorrow (Thursday). Dr Ryan has become a well-known figure since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic through his work as executive director of the World Health…

The Department of Social Protection will be questioned by TDs and senators today on why many self-employed people can't get the pandemic unemployment payments. The Oireachtas social protection committee says it has identified several anomalies with the…

The National Public Health Emergency Team will meet this morning to consider how the country should exit Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions next week. The meeting is taking place a day earlier than usual, with Cabinet set to consider NPHET's recommendations ahead…

6 additional deaths have been reported from Covid-19, and a further 226 cases of the virus. The number of new cases across Connacht is low this evening- with 6 cases in Galway, less than 5 in Mayo, and no new cases reported in Roscommon, Sligo or Leitrim. The…

A tiered re-opening of the country is the most likely outcome from decisions this week on how to exit level five. Cabinet Ministers met this morning but no decision was taken ahead of a second meeting on Thursday or Friday. It looks as though most retail will…

Irish Water has confirmed that it will take over the Currinara group water scheme outside Foxford in January. Local FG Councillor Neil Cruise has been calling for some time for this, and other group water schemes, to be taken in charge by Irish Water, and has…

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has called for the reopening of churches and other places of worship for regular services under Level 3 of Covid-19 restrictions. Senator Murphy asked the Taoiseach to consider allowing churches and other places of worship to…

Preparations to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Ballina Town’s formal establishment have begun. The north Mayo town was formally established in 1723 by Lord Tyrawley. The Ballina 2023 steering group has been set up to get the initiative off the ground and…

Ballina native Dr Peter Heffernan has been appointed the new Chair of the Council of the Dublin Institute of Advanced Studies - an internationally-renowned institute for research and scholarship. Prior to his appointment, Dr Heffernan served as CEO of the…

Other countries are finding ways to ensure that nursing home residents will be able to enjoy a safe visit from a loved one this Christmas and Mayo deputy Rose Conway Walsh is calling on the Irish government to follow their lead. The HSE is to issue updated…

Roscommon remains the only Connacht County with a 14-day incidence rate of Covid-19 higher than the national average. The county currently has a rate of infection of 158 per 100,000, compared with the national average of 108. The incidence of the disease…

More than 50,000 children's toys have been destroyed over safety standards. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission says the toys did not meet the EU and Irish safety regulations. The seizures included teddy bears, toy guns, inflatables with small…

Sligo University Hospital has received funding for the appointment of 5 new consultant posts with recruitment to start immediately. The Minister for State at the Department of Health, Frank Feighan has welcomed the news and explained that the new posts…

With a status yellow rainfall warning in place across western counties until 2pm this afternoon, motorists are advised to slow down with extensive surface water on roads across Connaught. There are no reports of any road extensively flooded so far this…

Cattle and Sheep farmers want the Beef Task Force to take action on the stagnant price of the meat in Ireland. The ICSA says there's a gap in the price of a kilo by around 60 cent compared between here and the UK. It's added that Brexit is a 'potential…

€150,000 will be spent on upgrading the water treatment plant on Achill Island in early 2021, in addition to €100,000 already spent at the facility since summer. That was confirmed by Mayo Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon, who has made representations to the Local…

The Justice Minister will face renewed calls to answer questions on the appointment of Seamus Woulfe to the Supreme Court when the Dail resumes later. Opposition parties want Helen McEntee to explain the process, and why the Taoiseach was not made aware of…

A status yellow rainfall warning is in place along the west coast and border region. The alert will run for Connacht, Cavan, Donegal, Clare and Kerry until 2pm this afternoon. Met Eireann is warning that heavy downpours in these areas may cause some river or…

Government ministers will meet this morning to discuss exiting Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions. There were an additional 252 confirmed cases of Covid 19 confirmed yesterday and no new deaths. 88 of the cases are in Dublin, 26 in Cork, 21 in Kilkenny, and 16…

There have been an additional 252 confirmed cases of Covid 19 and no new deaths. 88 of the cases are in Dublin, 26 in Cork, 21 in Kilkenny, 16 in Louth, 16 in Mayo with 85 spread across another 20 counties. 289 patients are in hospital of which 33 are in ICU.

Mayo County Council approved its budget for the coming year today, balancing a €159 million fund. The budget was proposed by the Fianna Fáil whip Cllr Damien Ryan, seconded by Cllr Michael Kilcoyne and agreed by councillors. A number of amendments were backed…

One person was taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in Galway this morning. The incident involved a van and a car and occurred at approximately 7am on the M6 near Oranmore. The road reopened shortly after 9am. One person sustained minor…

Cosmetic Creations, the Irish life sciences company headquartered in Claremorris has today announced it is rebranding to Lynoslife. The announcement comes after three years of sustained growth for the company, focusing on its service offering of developing…

The government will be opposing a motion of impeachment in Supreme Court Judge Seamus Woulfe. The Dáil is expected to hear the motion on Justice Woulfe's position on Wednesday or Thursday. The Supreme Court Judge has been embroiled in controversy since his…

Searches for a man missing from the north Mayo area were called off today due to deteriorating weather conditions. The man, who's in his late 60's and living in Lacken, was last seen on Thursday afternoon. His car was located on Friday at Downpatrick Head,…

The 50 strong volunteers with Ballina Lions Club were the delighted winners of a National Pride of Place Award at the weekend. While the many groups and volunteers that work closely with Belcarra Community Project are equally thrilled with their success in…

The country is set to move back to level 3 restrictions from next week, but the Taoiseach has cast doubt over large gatherings involving alcohol. The Cabinet remain at odds over whether pubs and restaurants should fully reopen ahead of the busy Christmas…

A garda investigation is underway as the Mayor of Galway city, Mike Cubbard, is being extensively trolled and impersonated online. Mayor Cubbard says it’s a nasty and dark side of public life, and he is not prepared to accept it. The actions by the…

Four swimmers were rescued off Rosses Point beach in Co Sligo yesterday after getting into difficulty. Shortly before 3pm, the Sligo Bay RNLI was tasked by the Coastguard following calls from several onlookers on the beach. The four ladies, who are seasoned…

A Ballina Councillor has asked Mayo County Council to work with Irish Water to carry out a full review of the water and sewage infrastructure in the town centre. Independent Cllr. Mark Duffy says there have been continuous burst pipes, leakages and disruption…

Bus Éireann has enhanced services and timetables in this region and they are in operation since yesterday. It has resulted in 9 new jobs located at Ballina Bus station. In conjunction with the National Transport Authority (NTA), Bus Éireann is offering a…

Coalition party leaders will meet today for talks on lifting level 5 restriction. Yesterday evening, one further death was confirmed from Covid-19 with 318 addititional cases. Dublin, Cork and Limerick saw the highest numbers of new cases, though the national…

Heavy rain can be expected across Connacht later today and tonight, as Met Eireann has issued a status yellow rainfall warning for the Connacht counties, as well as Donegal, Clare and Kerry. The alert comes into effect from 2pm this afternoon for 24 hours,…

A man is due in court today charged in relation to a drugs seizure in Co Sligo. Gardai carried out a search of waste ground in Cranmore, Sligo on Saturday and discovered cocaine worth almost 178 thousand euro, cannabis with a value of over 13 thousand euro,…

The Department of Health has been notified of 318 new cases of Covid-19, with one further death confirmed. There are 126 new cases in Dublin, 45 in Cork, 28 in Limerick, 21 in Donegal, 18 in Kildare and the remaining 80 cases are spread across 18 other…

Gardai have seized drugs worth almost 200 thousand euro in County Sligo. They found cocaine worth 177 thousand 800 euro, cannabis worth over 13 thousand euro and ecstacy with a value of over 5 thousand euro in Cranmore. They made the find with the help of the…

Today, 2,945 candles were lit at Knock Basilica during a special Mass to remember all who have died from Covid-19 on the island of Ireland. The 12 noon Mass was celebrated by Most Rev Michael Neary, Archbishop of Tuam and streamed live to the world via the…

Met Eireann has issued a yellow rainfall warning for counties in the West tomorrow. It's expecting heavy downpours tomorrow evening into the night and again on Tuesday. The counties affected include all of Connacht along with Donegal, Cork, Clare and Kerry.

A Fine Gael Councillor has received confirmation that the trees on the entrance to Greenhills Estate in Ballina will be removed in January. John O'Hara got the commitment at a recent meeting of Ballina Municipal District and says it is imperative for the…

There were more than 14 thousand no shows at Coronavirus test centres last month. In total more than 240 thousand tests were carried out- meaning non- attendance rate nationwide was 6 percent... That's down from 13 percent in September. Yesterday, 344 new…

A search is continuing today in north Mayo for a missing man. The man, who's in his late 60's and living in the Lacken area, was last seen at about lunchtime on Thursday. His car was located on Friday afternoon at Downpatrick Head, and the Coastguard launched…

Government Ministers are reportedly considering allowing pubs to open after level 5, as long as they shut by 10pm. The Sunday Times reports that there's a 'political appetite' to open the pubs and restaurants, in an attempt to stop private parties from…

There was success for two Mayo groups last night at the Pride of Place Awards which were held online. Belcarra Community Group won in the category 2 population 300 to 1000. Ballina Lions Club were successful in category 5 in the over 5000 population. Pride of…

There are 344 new cases of Covid-19 in the Republic and four more deaths. 127 of the cases are in Dublin, 46 in Cork, 26 in Louth, 22 in Donegal, 20 in Limerick and the remaining 103 cases are spread across 20 other counties. There are five new cases in Mayo…

A search is underway since yesterday in north Mayo for a missing man. The man, who's in his late 60's and living in the Lacken area, was last seen at about lunchtime on Thursday. His car was located yesterday afternoon at Downpatrick Head, and the Coastguard…

A Mayo TD is unhappy with the slow rate of progress in relation to the speed reduction campaign on the N60 at Breaffy outside Castlebar. FG Deputy Alan Dillon raised the matter this week with Minister of State for Transport Hildegarde Naugton . He says this…

Gardai have confirmed that drugs and cash were seized following a number of searches in the Ballaghadereen and Ballinlough areas of Co Roscommon, following an intelligence-led operation. Gardai from Ballaghadereen, assisted by Castlerea Gardai, the Divisional…

A father and son, who rescued two paddle boarders off the Galway coast in August, today came to the assistance of a swimmer who got into difficulty off Salthill. Patrick and Morgan Oliver made national headlines in August after coming to the rescue to two…

The winning ticket in last night's Euromillions Plus draw was sold in Galway city. The National Lottery has confirmed to Midwest News that the winning ticket, worth half a million euro, was sold in the XL newsagents in the Eyre Square Shopping Centre. The…

The managing director Foxford Woollen Mills is among a number of businesspeople featured on a new podcast series launched by Ulster Bank. "Learn, Adapt, Thrive" is the title of the podcast series, which gives listeners an insight into some of Ireland's most…

Four groups will be representing Mayo in the Pride of Place awards which take place online at 7pm this evening. Ballina Lions Club, Belcarra Community Group, Westport Men's Shed and the Ballyhaunis "Celebrate Diversity" group are the Mayo nominees for this…

A special Mass of Remembrance will take place in Knock Shrine tomorrow for all who have died from Covid-19 during this year across the island of Ireland. Archbishop Michael Neary will celebrate the Mass at 12 noon, which will be live streamed on…

330 new cases of Covid 19 were confirmed in the Republic last night, including 99 in Dublin. There were 15 new cases confirmed in Mayo, 8 in Sligo, 6 in Galway and less than 5 in Co Roscommon. The national 14-day incidence rate is now at 113 per 100,000…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 8 additional deaths related to COVID-19 in the Republic. As of midnight last night (Thurs), the HPSC has been notified of 330 new confirmed cases of the virus. Of the cases notified today 99…

Cannabis, cannabis herb and cocaine were seized by gardai in Ballina today following a planned search of homes in the area. The estimated street value of the substances recovered was in excess of 20,000 euro. The Divisional Drugs taskforce, assisted by local…

A homeless woman, who tried to help her brother get away with murder, is back in prison after breaching the conditions of her suspended sentence. Janice Brady, with a last address at Maryville Hostel, Finisklin, Sligo, pleaded with the judge to let her serve…

There is welcome news this evening for residents of Lakeshore Drive in Castlebar who have had raw sewerage seeping from a manhole in their estate for some time now. Local Fine Gael councillor Ger Deere has been highlighting the frustration of the local…

The Westport Chamber will this evening broadcast its own edition of the Westport Toy Show. It will be a live 3 hour broadcast at 7pm this evening on Facebook, bringing together children and adults from the local community and the diaspora. The show will…

Brexit readiness for businesses and challenges to the agri sector are top priorities for Ireland’s newest MEP for this region, Colm Markey, who officially began working in the role today. The former Louth County Councillor takes up his post as a member of…

Archbishop of Tuam Dr. Michael Neary will celebrate a Mass of Remembrance this Sunday, 22 November, for all those who have died from Covid-19 during 2020. The Mass will be celebrated at 12.00pm at the National Marian Shrine in the Basilica in Knock, and…

Hoteliers are calling on the Government to allow people to travel outside their county next month, and to permit indoor dining in hotels - including for non-residents. The Irish Hotels Federation insists hotels can reopen in a safe manner, while providing a…

Enforcement of the Level 5 Restrictions by gardai across the region from this weekend, will only be a last resort, according to Mayo Garda Chief Superintendent Tony Healy. He says engagement with the community and encouraging compliance with the regulations…

Publicans across the region will partake in the ‘Keep the Lights On’ campaign which see pubs across the country simultaneously switch on their Christmas lights at 5pm this evening. The Vintner’s Federation of Ireland is one of the organisers of the initiative…

In a planned garda operation in relation to illegal drugs, armed response units have been busy in the Ballina area this morning. Several properties in the Ballina town area have been raided. A significant number of armed gardai are involved in, what gardai…

The Education Minister says she has every confidence teachers will be considered when priority groups for a Covid vaccine are being decided. The INTO union has called for school staff and students to be among the first to get the jab when it becomes…

An Garda Síochána are advising the public to exercise caution when carrying out transactions online due to a new phishing scam. A recent report was made in the Ballymote District to Enniscrone Gardai which involved an attempt to commit fraud. The potential…

Publicans nationwide will turn on their Christmas lights at 5pm in a protest against what they're callling the "most severe hospitality lockdown in Europe." Trade groups say half of the pubs across Ireland have seen just two weeks' trade in the last 37.…

429 new cases of Covid-19 were confirmed in the country yesterday, along with 4 additional deaths. 173 of the cases are in Dublin, 44 in Cork, 26 in Donegal, 22 in Louth, 21 in Kildare and the remaining 143 cases are spread across the remaining 20 counties.…

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee has written to Ceann Comhairle of the Dáil Seán Ó Fearghaíl offering to move her ministerial questions to deal with the ongoing row over judicial appointments. The questions will centre on her role in the appointment of Mr…

The medical device manufacturer Boston Scientific has confirmed that a number of employees at its Galway facility are being laid off. The exact number of job losses has not been confirmed but the company says it hopes the move will have a "minimal impact" on…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 4 additional deaths related to COVID-19 in the Republic of Ireland. As of midnight last night (Wednesday) 429 new cases of the virus have been confirmed. Of the cases notified today, 173 are…

Ballina native, former President of Ireland Mary Robinson will be a guest on the Late Late Show on RTE television tomorrow night. The first woman President in Ireland, Mary Robinson joins Ryan Tubridy to reflect on that ground-breaking moment, as well as…

Ireland is now Orange under the European safe travel 'traffic light' system. The ECDC has issued updated travel maps for European countries adhering to the scheme. The change in status is because Ireland's 14-day notification rate is between 25 and 150 cases…

A member of NPHET says the coronavirus reproduction rate has risen to between 0.7 and 0.9. The HSE's also raised concerns that the recent progress in reducing the spread of Covid 19 has stalled. Health officials said the R number was around 0.6 last week -…

Councillors at yesterday's Ballina Municipal District Meeting agreed to officially invite US President Elect Joe Biden to revisit his ancestral homeplace of Ballina following his inauguration. Cllr Seamus Weir, Cathaoirleach of the Ballina Municipal District,…

The uncertainty around what will happen in ten days times when the Level 5 Restrictions are due to be lifted is the most difficult thing for publicans, according to the Mayo Chairman of the Vintners Federation Alan Gielty. Alan, of Gielty's Bar and Restaurant…

A man is due before the Castlebar District Court this morning, charged in connection with the seizure of more than €23,000 worth of suspected cocaine and cannabis in Ballinrobe yesterday evening. Gardai attached to the Mayo Divisional Drugs Unit, together…

The Taoiseach says a decision on exiting Level 5 restrictions will be made next week. Micheál Martin told a meeting of the Fianna Fáil parliamentary party last night that he wants people to have a 'wholesome and enjoyable' Christmas. A Dáil debate on exiting…

A Ballina area Councillor is calling on Eirgrid to go underground with their power line project that will run from Ballina to Ballaghaderreen. FG Cllr. John O'Hara says he has contacted Eirgrid and Mayo County Council to go for a 220kv power line instead of…

The young man who died following an assault at a house in Swinford on Monday night will be laid to rest in Knock on Saturday. 24-year old Michael McDonagh from Carrowmore Drive, Knock was pronounced dead at the house in Carrabeg, Swinford, after Gardai were…

The Department of Health has reported 12 additional deaths related to Covid-19. A further 379 new cases of the virus have been confirmed. 116 of the cases are in Dublin, 38 in Donegal, 30 in Meath, and 27 in Cork. There are 17 new cases in Galway, ten in…

Mayo Senator Lisa Chambers has today been appointed as Chair of the Seanad Brexit Committee by the members of Seanad Éireann. The Fianna Fail Senator says she is delighted and honoured to be appointed Chairperson of the Seanad Brexit Committee. This is a…

Plans by the executive of Mayo County Council to reduce the General Municipal Allocation to councillors has been scrapped, ahead of the council's budget meeting next Monday. Mayo County Council's executive had proposed reducing the GMA allocation for each…

Pfizer and BioNTech say their coronavirus vaccine is even more effective than previously thought. They say the latest data shows a 95 percent success rate - up from 90 initially. It's also met safety criteria - and will be submitted to US regulators for…

A Mayo TD is concerned about the loneliness and isolation felt by many elderly people in nursing homes, who are unable to see their families during the current Covid-19 restrictions. Sinn Fein TD Rose Conway-Walsh raised the issue with the Taoiseach recently,…

A 31-year-old man was remanded in custody this morning (Wednesday) when he appeared in court charged with the murder of 24-year-old Michael McDonagh at a housing estate in Swinford, Co. Mayo, on Monday night. Matusz Batiuk, with an address at 1 Carrabeg…

A secondary school teachers’ union has called for an early Christmas break for schools after a nine-month struggle through Covid-19. The Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) said it would also allow more time to staff and students to restrict their movements…

A man in his 30s has been charged in connection with the fatal assault at a house in Swinford on Monday night. The man was charged overnight and is due to appear before Castlebar District Court this morning. The victim has been named locally as Michael…

The Chief Medical Officer says he's "increasingly concerned" at the trends surrounding Covid-19. Dr Tony Holohan has said the five-day average of daily cases has increased from 350 last week - to 424 yesterday, and has urged people to follow the health…

A proposal to extend the school break at Christmas has been ruled out by the Education Minister. The suggestion by the Labour Party would see the term end on December 18th, rather than the following week. It's highlighted the stress and fatigue experienced by…

57,000 euro worth of heroin, cocaine and cash have been seized in Galway. The discovery was made after Gardai searched a car in the Newscastle area of the city last Thursday, as part of an intelligence-led operation. Gardai discovered €25,000 worth of heroin,…

There's some good news for business owners in Co Mayo, as it's been agreed there will be no increase in commercial rates next year. In addition, plans by the executive of Mayo County Council to reduce the General Municipal Allocation to councillors has been…

The Taoiseach has confirmed the Government will take no action against Supreme Court Judge Seamus Woulfe. The Cabinet has decided not to pursue articles of impeachment against Justice Woulfe over his attendance at the Golfgate dinner in Clifden in August.…

A homicide investigation is continuing after a man in his 20s was found dead at a house in Swinford last night. The incident occurred at the Carrabeg Estate, on the edge of the the town. Gardaí attended the scene at around 10.50pm last night after receiving…

The Archbishop of Tuam Dr. Michael Neary will celebrate a Mass of Remembrance this Sunday in Knock for all those who have died from Covid-19 during 2020. People are invited to submit a prayer petition on knockshrine.ie, which will be placed on the altar and…

A woman is due in court in Carrick on Shannon today charged in relation to a number of incidents of theft by deception, spanning seven years. Between 2011 and 2018, a total of 80 counts of theft were committed, during which €28,500 was stolen. A woman in her…

A homicide investigation is under way after a man in his 20s was found dead at a house in Swinford last night. The incident occurred at the Carrabeg Estate in the town. Gardaí attended the scene at around 10.50pm after receiving reports of a disturbance. It…

Strong winds will be expected on the west coast tomorrow as Met Eireann issues a status yellow wind warning. The alert for Mayo, Galway, Clare, Cork, Kerry and Limerick will be in operation from 3pm until the early hours of Thursday morning. The forecaster is…

The HSE will recommence processing Primary Medical Certificates for disabled drivers and passengers following the withdrawal of the scheme earlier this year. That was confirmed to Roscommon Deputy Denis Naughten by the Minister for Finance. The Independent TD…

The National Public Health Emergency Team says a number of new outbreaks associated with funerals have been identified. It initially recommend that 10 people be allowed attend funerals under level 5 restrictions, but this was revised upwards to 25 by…

The Government will discuss banning take-away pints when it meets this morning. It's after large groups of people were filmed drinking on the streets in Dublin and Cork over the weekend. NPHET has warned the suppression of Covid-19 has stalled and time is…

An investigation is under way after a man in his 20s was found dead at a house in Swinford last night. Gardaí attended the scene at around 10.50pm after receiving reports of a disturbance. It is believed the victim died as a result of a serious assault. A man…

 5 additional deaths related to COVID-19 have been reported this evening in the Republic. As of midnight last night (Sunday) 456 new confirmed cases of the virus have been reported. Of the cases notified today 105 are in Dublin, 85 in Limerick, 43 in Cork, 38…

A county Mayo man is among three Irish bankers who have been granted access to the prestigious partnership group at global investment bank Goldman Sachs. Newport native Richard Chambers, the son of former Mayo Senator and County councillor Frank Chambers,…

Funding limits have been increased for a scheme that aims to bring vacant properties back into social housing use. The limit for the Repair and Leasing Scheme is now 60,000 euro, up from 40,000 euro. Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien says in addition to…

There are growing concerns about the number of students being given exemptions from studying Irish. There’s been a 16 per cent increase in exemptions in the past year after a new system was introduced. Students used to need a cert from an educational…

A second covid-19 vaccine has shown to be almost 95 per cent effective. US company Moderna plans to apply for approval for it's vaccine in the coming weeks. Just a week after Pfizer and BioNTech said their vaccine was over 90% effective, Moderna has published…

The Taoiseach says a review will be carried out on the sale of takeaway pints from pubs. It follows scenes of crowds gathering in both Dublin and Cork over the weekend. Michael Martin says he's concerned and annoyed by what happened.

The State must take responsibility to prohibit turf-cutting on bogs classified as Special Areas of Conservation. That’s the view of Padraig Fogarty, the Campaigns Officer at the Irish Wildlife Trust. A new report from the Department of Culture, Heritage and…

€7,995 in funding has been approved for the Ballintubber Waterways Project in Roscommon from the Community Healthcare West through the National Lottery Grant. Independent Cllr Anthony Waldron welcomed the allocation saying it will assist with the provision of…

Additional fines of over €5m have been imposed on the state as a result of an ongoing failure to ensure proper environmental standards were adhered to at a wind farm in county Galway. According to RTE, daily fines of €15,000 have been mounting since November…

There are concerns about a rise in the number of Covid 19 cases. The Chief Medical Officer says the increase in the average daily five day case count is a worrying development. The estimated national 14-day incidence rate is just over 126, its lowest point…

Major refurbishment works at Roonagh Pier in Louisburgh have now progressed to tender through Mayo County Council. That's according to Fine Gael Deputy Alan Dillon, who says progress can now be made to swiftly awarding the contract. The works at the ferry…

A public consultation on statutory sick pay opens today. Ireland is in the minority of EU nations where there's no legal obligation for employees to be offered the benefit. Tanaiste Leo Varadkar has said the lack of protection leaves low-paid workers exposed…

Hundreds of people are expected to ignore government advice not to fly home for Christmas. That's despite warnings over the weekend that travel in the weeks ahead will be a 'recipe for disaster'. According to the Irish Times, 1,300 seats have already been…

Brexit talks resume today following Simon Coveney's comments that a trade deal won't be ratified if the UK pushes on with the Internal Market Bill. Downing Street claims the legislation is necessary to ensure trade across the UK. Discussions are continuing…

The Chief Medical Officer says a recent rise in the number of Covid-19 cases is a worrying development. 378 more infections were confirmed, and one further patient died. Across the region there are 15 new cases in Galway, twelve in Roscommon and less than…

A total of just 2,820 students are due to sit the postponed Leaving Cert today. The exams will take place during evenings and weekends from today until December 11th. Students who have already received calculated grades and decide to sit the written exams…

Two people cut off by the high tide near Blackrock on Galway Bay today have been rescued by Galway RNLI Lifeboat. A man and a woman, had walked out to Seaweed Point between Blackrock and Silverstrand when the spring tide took them by surprise and submerged…

There has been 378 new cases of Covid-91 in the Republic and one additional death. The Chief Medical Officer has warned that the average five-day Covid-19 case count is rising - "a worrying development which has persisted for the last few days". 124 of the…

The Chief Medical Officer's warned that progress in stamping out Covid-19 infections has stalled in the Republic. Dr Tony Holohan says the decline in new case numbers has been slower than forecast in recent days. And after yesterday's 456 positive tests, the…

Rail passengers travelling on the Galway to Athlone line faced lengthy delays yesterday because of a face mask row. The 17.20 service should have taken less than an hour but was stopped at Ballinasloe because of debris on the line. The train was ready to go…

The Taoiseach says the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine will be given to people for free in the new year once it has been approved for use. Micheal Martin says it's "very possible" a vaccine passport could be introduced to allow people travel abroad and attend large…

A total of just 2,820 students are due to sit the postponed Leaving Cert, which begins tomorrow. The exams will take place during evenings and weekends between November 16th and December 11th. Students who have already received calculated grades and decide to…

Government and opposition party leaders are due to meet again this week to discuss the controversy arising from Supreme Court judge Seamus Woulfe's attendance at the Oireachtas golf society dinner. The Chief Justice has said it is his view that the judge…

The Chief Medical Officer says he's concerned progress on reducing Covid-19 infections is faltering. Today the officials reported 456 new positive tests, 11 more people brought to hospital, and six more deaths. It means the five-day moving average daily case…

An Immunology expert says mass vaccination sites may be needed for the Pfizer Bio-N-Tech Covid-19 dose. It needs to be kept at ultra cold temperatures, that requires specialised freezers, which are only found in labs and hospitals. This has raised questions…

There's been an 87 percent increase in the number of domestic violence cases sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions compared with 2019. The Director of the DPP, Claire Loftus, has welcomed the fact that courts are giving priority to these cases. Speaking…

Concerns are being raised about the proposal to relocate the Post Office services in Ballymote, according to the Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Dara Mulvey. The Fine Gael councillor says he has no issue with the change of Agent as this has been an…

Our government politicians have voted for some of the most severe restrictions in Europe, putting thousands of people into severe economic hardship without experiencing any of the economic consequences themselves. That's the view of Mayo Aontu representative…

A change in July to the Social Welfare COVID-19 Amendment Bill could leave recipients of PUP payments liable to substantial tax bills at a time of significant challenge to their incomes. This warning was issued in the Dail when Sligo Deputy Marian Harkin TD…

A kite-surfer was airlifted to hospital yesterday after he got into difficulty off Keel Beach on Achill Island. Achill Island Coast Guard was called to the beach at around 1pm yesterday after a kite-surfer was blown onto some rocks. The injured kite-surfer…

Ballina Lions Club are today marking World Diabetes Day joining other Irish Lions Clubs in launching Diabetes Awareness as a Signature project. Lions Clubs in Ireland are organising a variety of projects and events aimed at raising awareness of Type 2…

The number of people being treated in hospital for Covid-19 has dropped by more than a quarter since the end of last month. 254 people are receiving treatment - down from 354 two and a half weeks ago - while 35 people are in ICUs. The head of the HSE, Paul…

Multiple Status Yellow wind warnings have been issued by Met Éireann for today. Forecasters say southerly winds will strengthen with severe and possibly damaging gusts. Strong and gusty southwest to west winds are expected in Connacht, Munster, and Leinster,…

There's been no agreement among party leaders about how to deal with the controversy surrounding Supreme Court Judge Seamus Woulfe. A two hour meeting has concluded with opposition leaders now seeking their own independent legal advice. The room was divided…

A further 482 cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed, along with seven deaths. 128 of the new cases are in Dublin, 45 in Cork, 43 in Waterford, 36 in Limerick, 24 in Donegal and Meath. There are 15 new cases in both Mayo & Galway. Elsewhere, there are six new…

The Law Society of Ireland has announced the appointment of Mayo solicitor, James Cahill, as President of the Law Society for the year 2020/2021, with effect from today. Mr Cahill is principal in the firm Cahill & Cahill in Castlebar. He becomes the…

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien and Minister of State with responsibility for Planning and Local Government Peter Burke have written to the Chief Executive of Mayo County Council to reiterate the Government’s support for…

A parish priest is welcoming the news that churches should be able to open for mass this Christmas. It comes after the Taoiseach said he believes they will be allowed to reopen and welcome parishioners in Christmas week. Micheal Martin says we can't take…

Ryanair are suspending all flights operations from Ireland West Airport Knock - and the other regional airports tomorrow for a 4-week period. This means Ireland West Airport will close on Saturday and reopen four weeks later, on Sunday 13th December. Earlier…

Political party leaders will meet later to discuss the controversy surrounding Supreme Court judge Seamus Woulfe. Mr Justice Woulfe is refusing to resign after attending a golf dinner that broke Covid restrictions - despite Chief Justice Frank Clarke calling…

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, has today announced the appointment of a new Board to the Western Development Commission. The Western Development Commission has played an important role in promoting economic and social…

Mayo University Hospital has this week re-opened the newly refurbished wards and patients have now moved back to the refurbished areas. The refurbished medical beds returned to use in the hospital yesterday and patients have also moved back to the refurbished…

There has been an oil spill around Westport Town. All road users in the area are being urged to take care. The Town centre, High St and Quay St. are currently being treated. Mayo County Council has confirmed to Midwest News that diversionary signs in place.

The trade group for restaurant owners says people are already booking their Christmas parties even though there's no clear plan to reopen yet. The Restaurants Association says it's seen an "upsurge" in bookings since Wednesday, when the Taoiseach said…

A new gift card will be launched in south Mayo in the next fortnight, which will encourage people to shop in the local area and spend locally this Christmas. Employers are being urged to purchase the The Lakes gift card for their staff this Christmas, thereby…

The Chief Medical Officer says international travel will be one of the biggest Covid 19 risks in the run-up to Christmas. Dr Tony Holohan has urged people to avoid non essential travel - and that includes Irish people abroad flying home for Christmas. NPHET…

Health officials say they're "almost certain" the number of daily Covid-19 cases will fall to below 100 by the start of December. The 14 day incidence rate is now estimated to be 135 per 100 thousand - one of the lowest in Europe. Buncrana in Donegal has the…

The Taoiseach is encouraging people to see Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions through to the end. We're at the mid-way point in the measures, and Micheal Martin says the data shows people are complying. The Taoiseach is paying tribute to the great national effort…

Political party leaders will meet this afternoon to discuss the future of Supreme Court Judge Seamus Woulfe. Taoiseach Micheál Martin is seeking consensus in how to approach the stand-off within the highest court in the land. The controversy over Seamus…

One additional death related to COVID-19 has been reported this evening in the Republic. As of midnight last night (Wednesday) 395 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported. Of these 132 occurred in Dublin, 31 in Cork, 27 in Donegal, 27 in Limerick,…

People have been advised not to book flights home to Ireland for Christmas by the Tánaiste. Leo Varadkar has said it's too early to be able to say whether people will be able to travel home for the holidays. The Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan has also…

It may well be an underground option that Eirgrid selects as the route for its proposed 110Kv power line that will run from Ballina to Ballaghaderreen. That’s according to David Martin, Senior Communications Specialist with Eirgrid. Reacting to opposition…

A restaurant owner in county Galway says moving services online has saved her business. It comes as An Post reveals it's handling more than 2 million parcels a week due to a surge in online shopping. Ann Dunne from the White Gables cafe in Moycullen has…

A Euromillions raffle ticket worth over €1 million was sold in the Connemara town of Clifden. The National Lottery has announced that the "Ireland Only Raffle" winner bought their ticket on Tuesday at the Sweeney Oil service station in Clifden. The ticket is…

A new HIQA report has outlined a number of areas of improvement needed at Swinford District Hospital. The report was published today following an inspection of the hospital in August. The report notes there was an outbreak of Covid-19 in Swinford District…

Attymass Against Pylons is a newly formed community group that has been established to oppose the overhead route of Eirgrid’s proposed 110kv North Connacht project. The new electricity line will run between substations in Moy, near Ballina to Tonroe,…

An Irish Army officer, living in Castlebar, who served on a UN peacekeeping mission which came under attack in Congo in 1961, has welcomed the establishment of a review group over the issue of medals for gallantry. Noel Carey was the youngest of 10 Irish…

Raw sewage is no longer flowing into Killala Bay, following a €19 million investment in wastewater infrastucture in the area. That's according to Irish Water, in response to a new report published this morning by the EPA. The report says raw sewage is flowing…

A 9-year old Mayo girl has had her artwork selected by author JK Rowling to illustrate her new book. Lottie Billington from Westport drew a peacock for the online competition, and this was one of 34 illustrations which were selected, from more than 19,000…

Raw sewage is flowing into the environment from 35 towns and villages every day - including Killala and Newport. That's according to a new report from the Environmental Protection Agency, which has also highlighted 113 locations country-wide where Irish Water…

The Taoiseach has come under pressure from members of his own party to move the country to Level 2 Covid-19 restrictions for Christmas. Yesterday, Micheal Martin said the aim was Level 3 from the 1st of December to allow businesses to re-open. However, at a…

A further 362 case of Covid-19 have been confirmed along with two deaths. One of the deaths took place in October and one is under investigation by health officials. 90 of the new cases are in Dublin, 48 in Donegal, 34 in Limerick, 29 in Louth and 24 are…

Gardaí have used their Covid-19 enforcement powers the most in the North Western Region since regulations came in to force. A new report shows gardai have used their powers 702 times since April, with action required on 242 occasions in the North West Garda…

The Taoiseach has said he wants the country to go back to level three at the start of December. But Micheál Martin says he will look at certain sectors that may be given individual licence to open. This could include bars and restaurants which would be…

The HSE says no doses of the flu vaccine have disappeared. 1.3 million doses of the jab have been distributed so far, but the executive wrote to GPs on Monday to say reimbursement claims have only been made for 700 thousand. It says the other 600 thousand…

The difficulties and challenges facing regional airports are being discussed at today's meeting of the Oireachtas Transport Committee. Representatives from Ireland West Airport Knock, Kerry and Donegal airports are outlining the devastating impact the…

The Castlebar campus of GMIT is to be the leader in establishing a new academic school of Nursing, Health Science and Well Being, as GMIT becomes a partner in a new Technological University for Connaught/Ulster. That’s according to the newly appointed…

Government action is needed to tackle the massive driving test backlog - that's according to Mayo Sinn Fein TD Rose Conway-Walsh. The Road Safety Authority has confirmed that over 93,000 people across the country are waiting for a driving test - including…

The founder of Aer Arann says it's a pity that funding for the aviation sector took so long to be approved. Representatives from Ireland West Airport Knock, Donegal and Kerry Airports will be before the Oireachtas Transport Committee this morning. They're…

A status yellow rainfall warning remains in place in Mayo and Galway until 6 pm this evening. Met Eireann is predicting up to 50 millimetres of rainfall which may result in flooding and hazardous driving conditions. The forecast is for a wet & windy day, with…

Party leaders are expected to meet to discuss the fallout from the controversy surrounding Supreme Court Judge Seamus Woulfe. It follows a warning from the Attorney General that Mr Justice Woulfe's clash with Chief Justice Frank Clarke raises 'serious…

The Chief Medical Officer says he's encouraged by the country's 'positive trajectory' in the fight against Covid-19. However Dr Tony Holohan has urged people to remain vigilant despite significant improvements in the profile of the disease. The 14 day…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 16 additional deaths related to COVID-19. Of the deaths reported today, 14 occurred in November, 1 in October and 1 remains under investigation. As of midnight last night (9th November) 270…

The former Taoiseach Enda Kenny called today for the All-Ireland football final and semi-finals to be played at a provincial venue, not Croke Park. Enda Kenny, describing himself as “an avid GAA supporter”, claims it is “unfair” that players involved should…

Six million euro in additional government funding has been announced this afternoon for three regional airports – Ireland West Airport Knock, Kerry and Donegal airports. Mayo Fianna deputy Dara Calleary says the funds are allocated as a consequence of Covid…

US President elect Joe Biden will run a different administration to President Donald Trump, and the need for a new relationship between the US and Europe is vital, according to former Taoiseach Enda Kenny. Enda Kenny knows Joe Biden quite well, having met him…

Eirgrid has extended the public consultation on the North Connacht 110 KV power line project until the 11th December. Initially, submissions had to be received by next Monday 16th November, but that date has now been pushed out to next month to allow more…

A status yellow rainfall warning has been issued for five counties along the west and southern coasts. The alert will be in place from 6pm this evening until 6pm tomorrow evening for Mayo, Galway, Cork, Kerry and Waterford. Met Eireann says up to 50…

Galway City Council has confirmed that three well-known properties in the city are to be demolished. The former Oasis nightclub in Salthill is to go the way of its next-door neighbour the Warwick, which was demolished last year to make way for a nursing home.…

One additional death from Covid-19 was confirmed last night,, along with 270 new cases - including 5 new cases in Mayo, 8 in Roscommon and less than 5 in each of counties Galway, Sligo and Leitrim. Mayo's 14 day incidence rate has now risen above the national…

Mr Justice Seamus Woulfe has agreed to a three-month suspension without pay from the Supreme Court. The suggested reprimand was accepted by Mr Justice Wolfe as a result of his attendance at the controversial golf society dinner in Clifden in August. The…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 1 additional death related to COVID-19. As of midnight last night (Sunday 8th NovembeR), the HPSC has been notified of 270 NEWS confirmed cases of the virus in the Republic of Ireland. Of…

Castlebar resident Noel Carey, now in his eighties, is the last surviving officer of the Siege of Jadotville, that occurred back in 1961, when he was part of an Irish Battalion deployed to the Congo as part of an United Nations peace mission. A movie on the…

Portugal has declared a state of emergency and imposed local night-time curfews in areas worst hit by the coronavirus pandemic. For at least two weeks from today, seven million people, that's around 70 percent of the country's population, are not allowed to…

There are calls for the government to confirm the Leaving Cert will go ahead in its traditional format next year. The Teachers Union of Ireland says Education Minister Norma Foley hasn't provided clarity so far. The TUI says with seven months to next June,…

Five retailers in Mayo are to benefit from a €5.3 million government online retail scheme. They are: Castle Davitt Furniture Ltd. Cordar Pharmacy Ltd., t/a Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacy Mac Eochagain Ltd. Thomas Archer (Ballina) Ltd. Thomas H. Kean Ltd.…

Irish people have lost over 1.1 million euro so far this year through online shopping frauds. It comes as new figures show the majority of consumer spending is now being done online. With most of us spending more time indoors, online shopping is booming. New…

Leo Varadkar has had the accuracy of a Dáil statement on the leaking of a confidential document questioned. The Village Magazine, which broke the story, has published further messages, which it claims shows the Tánaiste had a much closer friendship with Dr…

“It’s good to have friends in high places, and Joe Biden is a friend to Mayo and Ireland", according to Mayo Fine Gael deputy Michael Ring. Deputy Ring says the Democrats have been good friends to this country in the past, and he hopes that with Joe Biden as…

The Department of Agriculture needs to re-assess farm inspections, while level 5 Covid restrictions are in place. That's according to the Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association, which claims farmers are concerned about the risk of contracting the virus as…

Today is the deadline for people with disabilities to make submissions to the new Oireachtas Joint Committee on Disability Matters. Individuals and groups are invited to send in submissions about the issues affecting them and their families or carers, to…

Rents in Co Mayo are now 2.4% lower than a year ago, according to the latest report from property website Daft.ie The average listed rent in Mayo is now €744 per month. This compares with the national average monthly rent of €1,419 - up just over 1% on this…

The Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has announced €10 million in once-off funding for palliative care and end-of-life care in 2020, to support the sector during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Minister said that, while hospices and other providers of…

Over €5 million has been allocated for the expansion of the Great Western Greenway in Mayo. This is part of a package of €63.5 million announced this morning by Transport Minister Eamon Ryan and Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton for a range of Greenways…

Covid-19 figures are continuing to fall across Connacht. Nationally, 2 further deaths were reported yesterday evening from the virus, with 542 confirmed cases. This includes 8 new cases in Sligo, 7 in Galway, 5 in Mayo and less than 5 in both Roscommon and…

542 more people have contracted Covid-19 here and two more patients with the virus have died. Dublin had the most cases at 181. There were 59 in Donegal, 50 in Limerick, 36 in Cork and 25 in Kildare. There are eight new cases in Sligo, seven in Galway, five…

A member of the National Public Health Emergency Team says strict limits on Christmas get-togethers is needed to prevent a third wave of the virus. Professor Philip Nolan told the Business Post that if Level 5 restrictions are eased in December there will be…

Gardaí will be able to force suspects to hand over their phone passwords under a new government plan to tackle white collar crime. It will also see the State's corporate watchdog given the power to carry out undercover investigations. Last week, Justice…

From midnight tonight the EU's traffic light system for travel during the pandemic will take effect. A new update means red zones requiring passengers to quarantine for 14 days will only be imposed region-by region rather than by country. People arriving from…

279 people with Covid-19 are in hospitals around the country this morning - that's unchanged from yesterday's total. There were nine new admissions in the last 24 hours, while 16 people were discharged. It comes as the estimated national 14-day incidence rate…

The entire 150 residents of a Roscommon village have been Covid tested for free, as part of a pilot programme for rapid results testing. The Sunday Times reports that the church car park in Lecarrow, near Lough Ree, has acted as a pop up centre over four…

A lantern is being carried some 50km in a relay today from Mayo to the Tuam Mother and Baby Home site. People across Mayo and North Galway will help carry and pass on the symbolic light from Islandeady to Tuam throughout the day. The event has been organised…

Joe Biden has won the US Presidential election. He's projected to have taken the state of Pennsylvania - giving him enough electoral college votes to become the next President of the White House. The Democrat's tweeted he's honoured to have been chosen to…

There have been five additional deaths related to Covid-19 in Ireland, and a further 335 cases have been confirmed. There are 26 new cases of Covid-19 in Mayo which is the third highest in the country. Elsewhere, there are twelve new cases in Galway, five in…

Ireland is imposing new limits on people arriving into the country from Denmark because of the mutation of Covid-19 in minks there. Everyone arriving from there will have to quarantine for the full 14 days -- even if they're essential travellers like doctors,…

There is over €160,000 worth of works taking place in the coming weeks in the Hollymount area. That’s according to local Independent Councillor Patsy O’Brien who says the funding for these works was announced last February. There is safety measures work…

Mayo County Council will submit four detailed applications to Transport Infrastructure Ireland for projects along the N84. That's according to Ballinrobe-based Councillor Damien Ryan, who says 'technical backup, detailed drawings and criteria surrounding'…

A medical technology company based out of NUI Galway has developed a non-toxic Covid-killing spray. Aquila Bioscience says it's free of harmful chemicals, so is safe to use regularly on a person's skin. Production is mainly manual, with availability limited…

The head of the HSE says Covid-19 restrictions are working as there's further improvements in the numbers of people in hospital with the virus. Paul Reid says there are 279 patients with the virus in hospitals nationwide, with 37 in ICU. It comes as the…

A 31 year old man was sentenced to two and a half years in prison yesterday at Sligo District Court, with fifteen months of that suspended. That was for a charge of Sale and Supply of controlled drugs to the value of €101,123.

Joe Biden says he'll win the US Presidential race with a "clear majority. The Democratic candidate who has cousins in North Mayo has spoken to the American people after overtaking Donald Trump in the key remaining states of Georgia and Pennsylvania. In a…

Another eight people have died with Covid-19 in the Republic of Ireland, and there are 499 new cases. 175 of the infections are in Dublin, with 72 in Cork and 29 in Limerick, with the others spread across 21 different counties. There are 26 new cases in Mayo,…

Leo Varadkar will face a no confidence motion in the Dáil next week. Sinn Féin has called for the vote, saying they don't believe the Tánaiste has given a credible account of why he shared a confidential doctors' contract with a friend. Most around Leinster…

The US Presidential candidate with relatives in north Mayo, Joe Biden, has taken the lead in another key state. He's ahead by 5 thousand votes in Pennsylvania and would clinch the presidency if he wins that state. Joe Biden also leads in Nevada, Georgia and…

Retailers say an easing of Level 5 restrictions is needed in order to avoid crowds of Christmas shoppers. It comes after retail store Penney's announced it's considering longer opening hours in December to manage crowds and reduced queues. Chief executive of…

Concerns were expressed in recent days that 200,000 euro that was earmarked to be spent in the Ballina area to address accessibility issues for people in wheelchairs, the blind and the elderly, was instead to be invested into a public toilet at the Quay and…

Gardaí are investigating a theft at a premise on Main Street, Ballyhaunis shortly after 2pm yesterday where mobile phones were stolen. A man has been arrested in connection with the incident. Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this theft,…

Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a single vehicle road traffic in Galway yesterday evening. The incident occurred at Addergoole, Cloonboo at approximately 5:20pm. A woman in her 50’s was taken to University Hospital Galway and was treated…

A Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) report found multiple issues in relation to compliance with infection prevention and control at Belmullet Community Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. HIQA says ‘it was not clear’ if escalated risks from…

Staff at the Sacred Heart Hospital in Castlebar are being transferred to Ballina District Hospital, to cover staff at the Ballina hospital who have been transferred to a Nursing Home in the north Mayo area dealing with an outbreak of Covid 19. In addition,…

Galway city centre now has the highest inner-city incidence rate of Covid-19 in the country. It's had a case rate of 531 per 100 thousand people in the last fortnight -- more than double the national average. Buncrana in Co Donegal has the highest rate at…

The Chief Medical Officer says the full six weeks of level 5 restrictions will be necessary. A review is to be carried out at four weeks but NPHET is warning it doesn't anticipate recommending any restrictions being eased before December. The 14 day incidence…

A former government minister has accused the Supreme Court of a "fumbling" and "indecisive" response to Golfgate. Supreme Court Justice Seamus Woulfe met with Chief Justice Frank Clarke yesterday after four previous postponements. The Courts Service is…

591 people tested positive for Covid-19 yesterday and there were three more deaths in the country. 120 of the cases are in Dublin, 75 in Donegal, 50 in Cork, 46 in Kerry, 44 in Limerick and the remaining 256 cases are spread across 20 other counties. Across…

Gardai in Ballyhaunis this afternoon arrested a man on Clare Street in the town. The man was apprehended in connection with a shop lifting incident. The incident occurred just before 3o’clock. It’s understood the man was being pursued by a member of the…

Mayo University Hospital is advising that from today, Thursday November 5, patients who require Emergency Department care to firstly come to the main Emergency Department (ED) entrance at the front of the hospital. Catherine Donohoe Hospital Manager says…

The Main Contract for the Realignment of the N26 Foxford to Swinford road at Cloongullane Bridge has been awarded by Mayo County Council to BAM Civil Ltd. The project is managed by the Mayo National Roads Office and includes the realignment of 1.8km of road.…

Midwest Radio is celebrating its highest-ever listenership. The latest JNLR/IPSOS/ MRBI survey for the past 12 months shows Midwest Radio's yesterday listened figure is at 67% - the highest of any local radio station in the country, and also the highest in…

The Taoiseach has agreed to meet with management from Ireland West Airport Knock in the coming days to discuss the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Mayo airport is to close next week for a month, as a result of Ryanair suspending operations…

Sligo-Leitrim TD Marian Harkin is calling for a special dispensation from the level 5 Covid restrictions to allow people travel short distances from their homes to buy real Christmas trees direct from farmers. The Independent TD says people are being asked to…

Joe Biden is edging closer to winning the White House - however he is facing the threat of legal action from Donald Trump. The Democratic hopeful has got 253 of the 270 electoral college votes needed to be declared the President-elect. Donald Trump, who's at…

Two men in their 30s have been arrested after drugs and cash worth 86-thousand euro was seized in Laois and Mayo. On Tuesday night, officers carried out a search under warrant at an apartment in Portlaoise. They found cocaine and cannabis with an estimated…

The National Public Health Emergency Team will meet today to discuss latest Covid-19 trends - two weeks after level 5 restrictions were introduced nationwide. 8 further deaths were reported last evening, with 444 confirmed cases of the virus - over one-third…

A Sligo-based Fianna Fail TD has launched a scathing attack on the Taoiseach over the Leo Varadkar controversy. At a meeting of the parliamentary party meeting last night, Deputy Marc MacSharry criticised Mícheal Martin for his response to the Taniste's…

Another eight people have died with Covid-19 in the Republic, and there are 444 new cases. 158 of the new infections are in Dublin, with 48 in Cork, 36 in Galway and 28 in Limerick. The remaining 174 cases are spread across 19 other counties. There are twelve…

The Covid-19 reproductive rate has fallen below one and is now estimated to be between 0.7 and 0.9. The figure means the virus is being suppressed here, and comes as the HSE says it can now complete up to 140,000 Covid tests a week. Meanwhile, the 14-day…

The Foxford/Pontoon Greenway is due to commence construction, tomorrow which has been warmly welcomed by Deputy Michael Ring and local Councillor Neil Cruise. Deputy Ring allocated funding of €200,000 to this project in February 2020 under the Outdoor…

There are 29 patients on trolleys waiting for admission to Mayo University Hospital today, the third highest number in the country, according to the latest trolley watch figures from the INMO. The high number on trolleys comes a week after the long-awaited…

There are 29 patients on trolleys today at Mayo University Hospital - the third highest number in the country. Latest figures from the Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation show 261 patients on trolleys at hospitals across the country - 29 in Castlebar, 11 at…

The Sligo County Board chairman says it's disappointing that Sligo are out of the 2020 All Ireland senior football championship without kicking a ball. An outbreak of Covid-19 in their panel has seen them concede this Saturday's Connacht semi final to Galway.…

315 people with Covid-19 are in Irish hospitals today - up 9 since yesterday morning - with 43 people being treated in ICU with the virus. In this region, there are 9 patients with confirmed Covid-19 being treated at Mayo University Hospital, 13 at University…

Tuam historian and campaigner Catherine Corless has described as “brilliant” the commitment from the Children’s Minister that legislation will be brought forward this month for the reburial of babies from the Tuam Mother and Baby Home. The Minister for…

There was a 12 per cent increase in assaults on prison officers last year. There were 123 assaults on staff in jails across the country - up from 110 in 2018. The highest amount was in the Dochas women's prison in Dublin, at 23. At Castlerea prison, there…

In Ballina this morning the bunting of American flags remain flying high - just opposite the recently erected large mural of Joe Biden that overlooks it. The painting is the work of local artists Smiler Mitchell and Leslie Lackey. Market Square was the focal…

5 more deaths were confirmed yesterday evening from Covid-19, with 322 new cases. In this region, there were 8 new cases in Sligo, 7 in Mayo, 5 in both Galway and Roscommon and less than 5 in Co Leitrim, which has the lowest 14-day incidence rate of the virus…

Joe Biden has said he believes he's on course to win the US presidential election. But it's all still to play for in the US election with a few key states left in play. Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania are still counting and it may be into tomorrow before…

5 more deaths have been confirmed this evening from Covid-19, with 322 new cases. In this region, there are 8 new cases in Sligo, 7 in Mayo, 5 in both Galway and Roscommon and less than 5 in Co Leitrim, which has the lowest 14-day incidence rate of the virus…

Gardai in Ballina are appealing for witnesses after a man sustained injuries in the early hours of yesterday (Mon) morning following an alleged attack on him with what’s described as “an implement”. In follow up investigations two vehicles were later seized…

Gardai seized more than €6,000 worth of cannabis plants and a small quantity of cannabis herb near Castlebar last Friday. The detection was made at around 2pm on Friday afternoon when Gardaí carried out a search of a house in Manulla. A man in his mid 50s was…

Gardai seized over €19,000 worth of suspected cannabis herb and cash at a house in Ballyhaunis last night. The discovery was made shortly before 8pm when members of the Mayo Divisional Drugs Unit carried out a search of a premises in Ballyhaunis town. Gardai…

Castlebar ICA (Irish Country Women's Association) today, marked to the day, the first ever meeting of the Association that took place in the county town, seventy years ago. The branch is still active and strong in membership, but due to Covid Restrictions…

There's been a 15% drop in new car registrations in Mayo to date this year. New figures from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry show new car registrations nationally for the month of October were down 6% on the same month last year, while registrations…

The death has taken place in Ballina of Monsignor Paddy Gallagher, in his 97th year. Monsignor Gallagher, who celebrated the 70th jubilee of his ordination last year, passed away yesterday at St Augustine's Nursing Home. The Monsignor grew up in Ballina and…

An announcement is expected within weeks in relation to a discount supermarket being developed in Ballyhaunis. An 11 acre site in the town centre has been sold by Property Partners Earley in Roscommon to a retail consortium Cushman & Wakefield on behalf of a…

Americans are voting for their next US President today. Current President Donald Trump is currently trailing Democratic rival Joe Biden by over 8 percent on average in the polls nationwide. But of course, the polls are not always accurate or right. Nearly 99…

The Castlebar campus of GMIT needs to be made independent, not a satellite campus of Galway. That’s the clear demand of Castlebar Municipal District Councillors. They argue that, at present, Galway has all the control. It receives the funding for GMIT and it…