Chamber CEO energised by the immense possibility of Galway

Thu, Jul 03, 2025

It’s a busy June morning, and Karen Ronan is already deep into a full day of meetings when we sit down to chat in the heart of Galway City. The moment she arrives, her energy is palpable—an infectious blend of determination and enthusiasm that has clearly set the tone since she stepped into the role of CEO of Galway Chamber.

Barking mad - A conversation with Tadgh and Derry Fleming on the work of MADRA

Thu, Jul 03, 2025

Named as winners of Re-Turn's 'Small Town, Big Difference' campaign, MADRA celebrated its win last week with the help of social media stars, Tadgh and Derry Fleming.

Civic consortium bids to run Pálás Cinema

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

In February, the business running the 322-seat art house cinema closed its doors, and in May the property’s owner, Galway City Council, advertised for expressions of interest to take over the award-winning building for a nominal rent. This week, the council extended its deadline for submissions to July 14.

Discover contact lenses at Specsavers Headford Rd

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

Mark your calendars, Galway! On Friday, June 27, 2025, Specsavers Headford Road is hosting an exciting contact lens event designed to open your eyes to a world of clear vision and unparalleled freedom. Whether you are a seasoned contact lens wearer or curious about making the switch from glasses, this is an unmissable opportunity to explore the latest advancements and benefits.

Western Mobility - Offering ideal solutions for staircases

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

Western Mobility is one of the leading suppliers of stairlifts in Ireland. It offers a wide range of disability aids designed to increase accessibility and comfort, without breaking the bank, while it also offers stair lift rental to customers.

As one of Ireland’s most trusted names for stairlifts and accessibility aids, Western Mobility is able to offer solutions for almost any staircase in homes, straight or curved.

I’m looking forward to seeing where the Council makes a difference, says new Cathaoirleach

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

As the sun broke through on the longest day of the year, Cllr David Collins from Turloughmore stepped into the historic role of Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council—effectively the mayor of the county. It’s a role of immense civic pride and responsibility, and for Cllr Collins, it marks the pinnacle of decades spent serving his community.

A toast to excellence: inaugural Irish Bar and Cocktail Awards recognise The Connacht Hotel and HYDE Bar

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

The very best of Ireland’s drinks industry was celebrated in style last week at the inaugural Irish Bar and Cocktail Awards.

O’Hara raises ongoing closure of Dunguaire Castle in the Dáil

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

The Government have doubled down on their refusal to provide funding to facilitate the reopening of Dunguaire Castle in Kinvara, according to Sinn Féin TD for Galway East, Louis O’Hara, who raised the matter in the Dail with Minister for Local Government, John Cummins.

Claregalway Tidy Towns is working to keep Claregalway beautiful

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

In Claregalway, a dedicated group of volunteers has been steadily working to enhance the appearance and environment of their community. This year, the group has grown to 11 volunteers, and the rise reflects a growing recognition of the improvements being made.

Popular teacher Eugene Dunleavy honoured by new games area in Rahoon

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

The new Multi-Use Games Area in Rahoon has been officially named in honour of Eugene Dunleavy, sportsman, all-Ireland GAA winner, and a teacher who inspired a love of sport in hundreds of young men over his career.

University of Galway seeking families living in the Gaeltacht for multilingual study

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

University of Galway is inviting families living in Gaeltacht areas to take part in a new study focused on everyday life in multilingual households. The researchers are particularly interested in families raising children with languages other than Irish or English.

GRCC seeks volunteers to join psychological support team for survivors of sexual violence

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

The Galway Rape Crisis Centre (GRCC) is calling on compassionate individuals to volunteer for its Psychological Support Team, a vital service that provides emotional and practical support to survivors of sexual assault.

1156 newborn baby grants paid in Galway, says Naughton

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

Almost 20,000 newborn baby grants have been paid since it was introduced by Fine Gael in the last Budget, said a Fine Gael Minister.

Major developer offers to pay land tax for sites in Galway

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

Fitzpatrick & Heavey Homes, one of Ireland’s leading property development firms, has reaffirmed its commitment to landowners by pledging to fully cover the Residential Zoned Land Tax (RZLT) on any residentially zoned land it purchases. With the tax now in effect as of February 1, 2025, the company is actively seeking sites for development, particularly in Galway, as part of its expansion strategy.

Henry Street playground to commemorate Galway City’s first female mayor

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

Henry Street Playground was officially named last Friday in honour of former Mayor of the City of Galway, Mary Byrne (1917-2004) - who was the first female Mayor of Galway, and was also a resident of Henry Street.

Security to mind hospital patients do not have any clinical role, Health Forum told

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

Security officers hired to observe patients at GUH are used to ensure that patients do not present a threat to themselves or others, this week’s HSE Regional Forum was told at Merlin Park.

‘We are paying the ultimate price’ says mother of Renvyle man killed in lorry crash

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

The mother of a 24-year-old Galwayman killed in a road collision has said her family is “paying the ultimate price” for the actions of a Donegal lorry driver whose dangerous driving led to her son’s death.

Chain of events: a look at who wears the mayor’s medallions next

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

Councillor Peter Keane finished up his stint as Galway’s first citizen last week, and was replaced by Councillor Mike Cubbard.

Clifden ALDI reopening is a special moment, says manager

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

ALDI’s Clifden store will reopen on July 3, after being closed for nearly six months due to damage caused by Storm Éowyn. Store Manager, Barbara Hehir tells us a bit about herself, her career with ALDI, and what makes the Clifden store’s reopening so special.

Parents rave about new Galway Summer Camp

Thu, Jun 26, 2025

“I have never seen her jump out of bed so enthusiastically in the morning”, says Emma O’Byrne from Limerick, and Emma is just one of a growing legion of parents lauding Ireland’s most creative summer camp.

Inspireland’s much-loved Art & Animation Camps are open to both kids and teens aged 8–18, are designed to create an environment and safe space where everybody is the hero. Their aim is to help young people connect through art and creativity. A creative tribe where all are welcome. Participants explore a wide range of activities including animation, comic art, character design, illustration, bookmaking, and more — all under the guidance of professional artists.The results are there to be seen in the high praise.

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