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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 Arizona - meaning Donald Trump now has a slim chance of being re-elected.

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  • Jan 18, 2021

    Mayo University Hospital outlines its Covid-19 vaccination programme

    Midwest News contacted the Saolta Hospital group today, to ask if any family members of staff at Mayo University Hospital, received a Covid 19 vaccine - in light of the news that emerged earlier that the Coombe Hospital in Dublin vaccinated 16 family members…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    New online portal launched for people seeking to retrain or upskill

    A new online portal has been launched today for people seeking to upskill or retrain. The online portal - www.gov.ie/therightcourse - is a one-stop-shop for businesses, employees or unemployed people, and outlines the options available to them for further…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    HSE West says hospitals will be under significant pressure for the next 2 weeks

    The number of people with Covid-19 being treated in intensive care units has reached 200. The Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan is warning the situation in the country's hospitals is "stark". The total number of Covid-positive patients in hospitals across…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    LISTEN: Maura Ginty from Gintax talking about the bills issued by Revenue.

    Maura Ginty from Gintax talking to Tommy Marren about the bills issued by Revenue for payments received in 2020. Listen back to the full interview below and find out what it means for you. MidWest · Maura Ginty - GINTAX - 2021 Tax Bills from Revenue
  • Jan 18, 2021

    Coroner confirms surge in Covid related deaths reported to him in Mayo over the weekend

    12 Covid related deaths in east and south Mayo were reported over the weekend to the Coroner for Mayo, Patrick O’Connor. Mr. O’Connor confirmed to Midwest News today that the deaths notified to him predominantly occurred in nursing homes in the south and east…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    SIPTU calls for ambulance crews to be prioritised for excess Covid-19 vaccines

    There are no vaccination doses available to the National Ambulance Service crews across the region at present. That’s according to SIPTU’s Health Division Organiser Ciaran Sheridan. This means that the National Ambulance service crews across Mayo, Galway and…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    Archbishop Neary pays tribute to Fr Michael Kenny who died suddenly in Ballyhaunis

    A post-mortem examination is being carried out today on the body of a retired priest, who was found near a railway line outside Ballyhaunis yesterday. Fr Michael Kenny, who was aged 74 and a native of Ballyhaunis, had taken early retirement as a priest of the…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    Significant jump in Covid-19 patient numbers at Mayo University Hospital

    2,023 people with Covid-19 are being treated in Irish hospitals - the first time the figure has risen over 2,000 since the start of the pandemic. Latest HSE figures show that there are 131 covid-19 patients at GUH- up two, 98 at MUH- up 18, 39 at SH- down 4…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    Concerns in the Castlebar /Turlough areas over proposed new telecommunications masts in the locality

    There is some concern in the Castlebar area over a number of different planning applications by telecommunications companies seeking to erect masts. Large signs opposed to these masts have been erected along the main roadways in the Turlough area and on both…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    Two Mayo NUIG students awarded Intel Scholarships

    Two NUI Galway students have been awarded scholarships by multinational technology company Intel as part of its programme to encourage the next generation of high-achieving women. The successful students are Eimear McDonnell, from Westport, in third year BSc…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    Plea from HSE West - Work from Home, Stay at Home

    Across Galway, Mayo and Roscommon, there continues to be a very high level of infection in our communities. The 14 day incidence in Mayo now stands at 1635 per 100,000people, the figure for county Galway is 1095 per 100,000, while its 925 per 100,000…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    179,000 euro announced for small scale walking trails across Roscommon/ Galway

    Roscommon/Galway deputy Denis Naughten, has welcomed the allocation of €179,000 for the small-scale enhancement of local walking trails across Roscommon & East Galway. “Funding has been allocated for the improvement of trails in Ballygar, Glenamaddy,…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    160,000 euro in funding announced for eight outdoor recreation projects in Mayo

    Funding of €159,800 has been awarded to Mayo for eight outdoor recreation infrastructure projects. The funding was confirmed by Mayo Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon following this morning’s announcement by Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    Claremorris Post Office temporarily closed this week

    Claremorris post office is closed temporarily this week due to circumstances beyond the control of An Post. Public Affairs Manager with An Post Angus Laverty told Midwest News this morning that in the interim payments from the Department of Social Protection…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    Stay at Home, urges Dr Tony Holohan

    A member of the National Public Health Emergency Team believes not enough is being done to stop the spread of Covid-19, and there is too much movement nationwide. It comes as the the Chief Medical Officer has once again appealed to employers to allow staff…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    Warning a bad outbreak of Covid-19 in a nursing home could put the hospital system over the edge

    An infectious diseases specialist says a single bad outbreak of Covid-19 at a nursing home could put the hospital system over the edge. 2,944 more people have tested positive for the virus, and thirteen more patients have died. Across the region there are 181…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    Over 30 people fined for breaching travel restrictions in Roscommon yesterday

    Hundreds of people have been fined after being caught more than 5km from home over the weekend. Many more were given cautions and sent home after being stopped at Garda checkpoints, as the force ramped up enforcement of the Public Health Act. Gardai had only…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    Rainfall warning issued for Connacht tonight

    Met Éireann has issued a rainfall warning for Connacht and six other counties across the northern half of the country. The Status Yellow warning covers the five counties in Connacht, as well as Longford, Louth, Westmeath, Meath, Cavan and Monaghan. It comes…
  • Jan 18, 2021

    Railway line reopens at Ballyhaunis following the discovery of a body nearby

    The Westport/Dublin railway line reopened at Ballyhaunis yesterday evening following its closure to deal with an incident near the track. Gardai confirmed that the body of a man was found on land near the line yesterday afternoon. The man's remains were…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    2,944 new cases of Covid-19 and 13 further deaths

    2,944 more people have contracted Covid-19, and thirteen more patients have died here. Across the region there are 181 new cases in Galway, 95 in Mayo, 24 in Sligo, 16 in Roscommon and 7 in Leitrim. The Chief Medical Officer says the chance of catching the…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Post mortem to be carried out on body found near Ballyhaunis

    Gardai have confirmed that the body of a man was found on land near the railway line outside Ballyhaunis earlier today. The man's remains will be removed this evening to Mayo University Hospital where a post-mortem will be carried out the determine the cause…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Gardaí appeal for assistance in tracing a man missing from Galway

    Gardaí are seeking the public's help in tracing the whereabouts of 34-year-old Luke Davoren, who is missing from the Galway area. Luke was last seen in the University Road area of Galway in the early hours of the 30th of December 2020. He is described as…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Government requests early deliveries of the AstraZeneca vaccine

    The Health Minister says government's in talks to secure early delivery of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. Stephen Donnelly says an advanced shipment would allow vaccinations to start as soon as granted EU approval. The European Medicines Agency's due to meet…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Children's Minister believes 'forced adoptions' were thrust upon survivors of Mother and Baby Homes

    The Minister for Children says he believes women who gave birth in Mother and Baby Homes had no choice in agreeing to adoption for their children. However, the Commission has taken what Roderic O'Gorman calls a 'legalistic' approach to the term 'forced…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Emergency Services are at the scene of an incident on the railway line near Ballyhaunis

    Gardai and emergency services are attending the scene of an incident along the railway line outside Ballyhaunis. Midwest News understands that a body has been found on lands near the line on the Castlerea side of the town. Investigations into the incident are…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Headford councillor appointed to town regeneration advisory group

    Galway councillor Mary Hoade has been appointed to a new government advisory looking at regenerating town centres in rural Ireland. The President of the Association of Irish Local Government, Headford based cllr Mary Hoade has been appointed to the new…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Delays on the Westport/Dublin rail line as Gardaí deal with an incident at Ballyhaunis

    Passengers intending to travel on Westport/Dublin train services today will encounter a delay. Irish Rail issued a statement on social media indicating that Gardaí have requested the line be closed at Ballyhaunis to deal with an incident. No further…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    EPA competition encourages teens to become environmentally aware

    Secondary school students are being asked to become more aware of the environmental impact of their belongings. The "Story of Your Stuff" competition is inviting teenagers from right across the region to investigate the life cycle of household items and…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Almost €2.5 million allocated to Mayo and Galway businesses under the Trading Online Voucher Scheme

    Over €2.45 million was allocated to Mayo and Galway businesses under the 2020 Trading Online Voucher Scheme Galway based Senator Seán Kyne says the Scheme, which is administered by the Local Enterprise Offices on behalf of the Government, provides grant…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Councillor calls for swift negotiations with landowners on extension of the Great Western Greenway

    A Westport Councillor is calling on Mayo County Council officials to begin talks as soon as possible with landowners and property owners, regarding the extension of the greenway from Murrisk to Lecanvey. Independent Councillor Christy Hyland says funding for…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Woman arrested in connection with an assault in Sligo

    A shop worker has been seriously assaulted with a hammer in Sligo Town. The incident happened after a woman entered a store without a face covering yesterday evening. At around 6.45, a woman in her early 20s entered the premises without the required face…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Drop in Covid-19 patients at Mayo University Hospital

    Almost 2,000 people with Covid-19 are in hospitals around the country, with 195 in intensive care. There were 19 admissions to ICU over the last 24 hours. There are 11 hospitals without any critical care beds - there are currently 24 critical care beds…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Roscommon TD raises Covid concern over multiple pen use in Post Offices

    Concern has arisen over the use of electronic signatures for those collecting their social welfare entitlements in Post Offices. Roscommon Sinn Fein TD Claire Kerrane says people are concerned at using an electronic pen when collecting their pension, while…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Up to 130,000 mother & baby home survivors could be eligible for upcoming compensation scheme

    Up to 130,000 mother and baby home survivors could be eligible for the upcoming compensation scheme. The Government estimates 60,000 mothers and 70,000 children who went through the institutions are still alive, according to the Business Post. The paper…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    Covid-19 lockdown could last beyond April

    Ireland's Covid-19 lockdown could last beyond April, with only schools and construction expected to be allowed reopen before March. According to the Sunday Independent, government's privately warning it could be summer before hospitality can open again while…
  • Jan 17, 2021

    UK variant of Covid-19 will become dominant

    There's a warning the UK variant of Covid-19 has adapted and become better at moving from person to person. The Director of the National Virus Reference Laboratory says it will become the dominant variant in Ireland. Dr Cillian De Gascun is urging people to…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    60 more people have died from Covid-19 & 3,231 new cases

    60 more people with covid 19 have died and 3,231 new cases have been confirmed. 931 cases are in Dublin, with 388 in Cork, 238 in Louth, 155 in Waterford and 151 in Limerick. In this region there are 132 cases in Galway, 101 in Mayo, 29 in Roscommon, 26 in…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    ESB crews restore power supply to customers in Belmullet

    Power has been restored this evening to some 719 premises in the Belmullet area that experienced a loss of supply this afternoon. The outage occurred just before 2 o’clock due to a fault in the system, according to the ESB powercheck app. ESB crews worked to…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    Sligo Deputy says new Remote Work Strategy presents huge opportunities for the region

    The Government has announced a new strategy to make working from home a permanent option for workers right across the region. That's the view of Fine Gael Deputy Frank Feighan who says the strategy represents huge opportunities for the western region The…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    Mayo University Hospital records critical care covid admission

    An intensive care consultant says ICU numbers shouldn't be used to determine when to lift Covid-19 restrictions. There's concern critical care capacity could be used up by this weekend. There are currently 191 people with the virus being treated in ICUs…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    Man arrested following drugs and cash seizure in West Mayo

    A quantity of drugs and cash were seized in West Mayo yesterday following the arrest of a man. Gardaí attached to the Mayo Divisional Drugs Task Force stopped and searched a 24 year old man in a vehicle in Westport Town. He was found in possession of cocaine…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    Over 700 premises without power supply in Belmullet this afternoon

    Up to 719 premises in the Belmullet are experiencing a loss of power supply this afternoon. The outage occurred just before 2 o’clock due to a fault in the system, according to the ESB powercheck app. ESB crews are currently working to repair the fault and…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    First Choice Credit Union approved for Covid-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme

    First Choice Credit Union has been approved for the COVID-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme to boost local SME & Agri community lending. Seven of Ireland’s largest Credit Unions, including First Choice Credit Union approved under the scheme. First Choice Credit…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    Local Councillor praises programme highlighting uncertainty about the future of Lough Carra

    Agriculture, in particular phosphates entering Lough Carra, are the cause of the rapid deterioration of the water quality in the Mayo lake. This was highlighted earlier this week by environmental experts on the RTE One TV programme produced by Eco Eye that…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    Works progressing in Foxford to enhance the drinking water supply

    Irish Water, working in partnership with Mayo County Council, is progressing with essential works to enhance the drinking water supply for homes and businesses in Foxford. The works are being carried out in accordance with the current Level 5 Covid-19…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    HSE says rollout of Moderna vaccine is a priority as three mass vaccination centres open

    The HSE says its priority is to roll out the Moderna vaccine as soon as possible but it depends on supply. GP teams will receive the first doses of it today at three mass vaccination centres in Galway, Dublin and Portlaoise. 1,800 GPs and nurses will be…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    Irish Patients' Association say waiting lists figures are 'fairly horrendous'

    The Irish Patients' Assocation says Covid-19 is putting a huge strain on the health system as elective surgeries are being cancelled. It's describing new hospital waiting list figures as 'fairly horrendous'. It says the number of patients waiting to get…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    Travel agents welcome extension of Covid testing

    Travel agents are welcoming the fact all travellers to Ireland now need to test negative for Covid-19 to be allowed into the country. From today, people from all countries need to produce a negative PCR test, which is no more than three days old. The rule…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    CMO highlights danger the Brazilian Covid-19 variant poses

    The Chief Medical Officer's warning of the danger of a Brazilian variant of Covid-19 arriving in Ireland. Dr Tony Holohan says new strains of the virus have been identified there, but there has been no case in Ireland so far. However, he's asking anyone who…
  • Jan 16, 2021

    Fórsa says no agreement reached to reopen special schools

    It will not be confirmed until Tuesday whether special needs children can return to school next week. The Department of Education wrote to principals last night to tell them to prepare for these schools to reopen on Thursday. It would allow 20,000 children in…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    50 more people have died from Covid-19 with 3,498 new cases

    50 more people who were diagnosed with Covid-19 have died. The Department of Health has also reported 3,498 more cases of the coronavirus. 1,182 are in Dublin, 421 in Cork, 258 in Limerick, 187 in Galway, 164 in Waterford, and the remaining 1,286 cases are…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    Bord na Mona peat briquettes will no longer be made after 2024

    Peat Briquettes will no longer be made after 2024 while Bord Na Mona has ended all its peat harvesting operations in Ireland. Bord Na Mona has announced it will no longer harvest peat on its lands. The decision comes after the company suspending operations…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    Mass vaccination centre for GPs opens in Galway tomorrow

    As of this afternoon Ireland is at the top of the EU league for administering the Covid 19 vaccine, per 100,000 population. It’s welcome news according to Mayo Fianna Fail Senator Lisa Chambers. The Senator told Midwest News today that in addition all GPs are…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    LISTEN: Galway GP says lessons must be learned from the Covid-19 surge in Belmullet

    A Galway GP says questions should be asked about the sharp rise in Covid-19 infection rates in the Belmullet LEA. Dr Martin Daly says that the region is ‘not just an outlier’ in terms of increasing rates of infection, but an ‘extreme outlier’. The…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    People in Belmullet are afraid of Covid 19 and grieving the loss of life, according to local deputy

    People in Belmullet are afraid, there are many people in the area sick at present and the community is grieving the loss of life related to Covid 19, particularly over the past two weeks. That’s according to local deputy Rose Conway Walsh. The fact is that…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    Mayo Gardaí warn of increase in fraud incidents

    Mayo Gardaí are warning the public that there has been an increase in fraud incidents with bank debit cards, credit cards, online shopping and buying from trade magazines. People have calls purporting to come from their bank saying that fraudulent activity…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    Increase in Covid-19 patients at Galway and Mayo University Hospitals

    Thirteen hospitals nationwide have no ICU capacity left. These include hospitals in Galway, Letterkenny, Portlaoise, Navan and Naas, according to statistics from the HSE. 32 intensive care beds are available nationwide across both adult and pediatric units.…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    Mayo winner among this year's Coca-Cola Thank You Fund

    Belmullet Swimming Club was one of the thirteen community groups nationally awarded funding from this year’s Coca-Cola Thank You Fund. As young people across Ireland face an extended period of remote learning, community groups working directly with those most…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    President Higgins issues statement on Mother and Baby Homes report

    The President, Michael D Higgins says the Commission of Investigation's final report into Mother and Baby Homes shows how far short Ireland came in fulfilling the promise of a Republic. In a statement, he said the focus now should be on meeting the needs of…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    Plans to resume special needs education will be finalised today

    A meeting is taking place this morning to finalise plans for special needs education to resume next Thursday. Department of Education officials will update disability, autism and carers' organisations after an agreement was reached yesterday. Special needs…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    Covid-19 infection rate soars in the Belmullet local electoral area

    One in every 17 people in Belmullet local electoral area in Co Mayo tested positive for Covid-19 in the space of two weeks. The region had by far the highest incidence rate in the country. This data reflects on the 14-day incidence rates of confirmed cases of…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    NPHET says there'll be 'significant' deaths linked to Covid in the coming weeks

    NPHET says there will be a "significant" number of deaths linked to Covid-19 in the days and weeks ahead. A further 28 deaths were confirmed last night, bringing the total this month to 208 - and some of those who've died have been as young as 25. Health…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    Thousands of workers to receive tax bill for Covid-19 payments

    Thousands of workers who have received the Pandemic Unemployment Payment or the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme are set to face tax bills today The payments were not taxed in real-time and instead are liable to income tax and USC at the end of the year.…
  • Jan 15, 2021

    Two HSE facilities in Mayo among the first in the Gaeltacht to be immunised

    Two HSE Older People’s facilities in Belmullet were among the first in the Gaeltacht to receive the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. 100-year-old Mary Philbin, of Rossport, Ballina and Michael Gaughan of Mullaghroe Blacksod were two of all residents…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    Just under 4,000 new confirmed cases of Covid 19 this evening in the Republic

    The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 28 additional deaths related to Covid 19 in the Republic. 26 of these deaths occurred so far this month. The date of death for 2 of the reported death remains under investigation. As of…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    Legal advice is expected shortly on the official spelling of the Sligo seaside town of Enniscrone/Inishcrone

    Legal advice is expected shortly on the official spelling of the Sligo seaside town of "Enniscrone/Inishcrone" , according to Minister Frank Feighin He told Midwest News this evening that the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media,…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    Bishop of Achonry apologises to survivors of Mother and Baby Homes

    The Bishop of Achonry, Paul Dempsey has apologised to anyone treated in an undignified and demeaning manner, as highlighted in the Commission Report into Mother and Baby Homes. In part of his statement this afternoon he writes: “I am conscious as I write…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    Special need students to return in phases to primary classrooms from next week

    Special schools and special needs students in primary schools will be able to return to classrooms from next week. Special students will be able to access in-person education on a phased basis from Thursday January 21st. This will also apply to children who…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    Deputy Mac Sharry calls for "side deal" to secure more Covid vaccines here

    The Health Minister should look at doing a new deal outside of the EU’s combined deal to secure Covid 19 vaccines, according to Sligo/Leitrim TD Marc Mac Sharry. He has called on Minister Donnelly to do a side-deal to get greater quantities of the vaccine…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    Gardai make drugs seizure following discovery of a grow house in Westport

    Gardaí have seized €18,500 worth of suspected cannabis plants and cannabis herb following the discovery of a cannabis grow house at a property in Westport yesterday. The detection was made at approximately 12.30pm when Gardaí attached to the Mayo Divisional…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    An Post free postcards to be delivered again to every household from next week

    An Post is inviting the nation to Brighten up January with a two new free postcards to be delivered to every home from next week. The large format postcards are postage paid for delivery within Ireland and each household will receive two cards – one with a…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    "Shocking and repulsive"- Galway West TD critical of Mother & Baby Homes report

    "Shocking, disturbing and repulsive" - some of the words used by Galway West TD Catherine Connolly yesterday evening, when speaking in the Dáil about the report from the Commission for Investigation into Mother & Baby Homes. The Independent TD addressed the…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    House prices in Mayo set to rise by 6% this year

    House prices in Mayo are set to rise by 6% this year. That's according to a new survey carried out by Real Estate Alliance, which shows the price of an average three-bed semi in Mayo is expected to increase by 6% over the next 12 months. Prices in the county…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    LISTEN: PJ Haverty - Tuam survivor recalls tracking down birth mother

    PJ Haverty was born in Tuam in 1951 and recalls tracking down his birth mother. PJ gave a very honest and heart-rending interview on The Tommy Marren Show this morning. (14-1-2021) Listen back to the full interview below. Photo Credit: Ray Ryan MidWest · PJ…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    Sligo TD calls for staff in special education to be prioritised for Covid-19 vaccines

    Special needs assistants are set to return to classrooms on a phased basis, if a range of Covid-19 safety measures are rolled out. Their union Forsa has set out the measures it says are necessary to make classrooms and other schools areas safe - including…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    Tomorrow is deadline for submissions on N17 Knock-Collooney upgrade

    5pm tomorrow is the deadline for sending in submissions on the proposed routes for the N17 upgrade between Knock and Collooney. A number of different route options are being considered, and members of the public in Mayo and Sligo are being urged to give their…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    IDA Ireland plans to build new advance building in Mayo

    IDA Ireland is planning to build a new advance building in Mayo. That's according to Mayo FG Deputy Alan Dillon who says IDA's four-year strategy commits to investing in a new advance building in Co Mayo, as well as investing in IDA parks across the west, and…
  • Jan 14, 2021

    NPHET meets today to discuss deteriorating Covid-19 situation in hospitals

    The National Public Health Emergency Team will meet later to discuss the deteriorating Covid-19 situation in the country's hospitals. Latest figures show there are 1,770 patients with the virus in hospitals, which includes 176 in ICU. Yesterday saw the second…
  • Jan 13, 2021

    63 Covid-19 related deaths & 3,569 new cases

    A further 63 Covid-19 deaths have been reported - the second highest daily figure ever recorded, and the highest since the end of April. Five of the deaths occurred in November, one in December and 56 this month - while the date of one further death remains…
  • Jan 13, 2021

    Mayo University Hospital Manager says Capacity & staffing remains it's biggest challenge

    The number of patients in hospital with the virus has hit another record high. 1,750 patients are being treated in hospital with Covid 19 and 158 of these patients are in ICU. In this region, there are 124 patients with Covid being treated at University…
  • Jan 13, 2021

    Taoiseach apologises on State's behalf over Mother & Baby Homes

    The Taoiseach has made a formal state apology to the victims and survivors of Mother and Baby Homes. Micheál Martin told the Dáil that basic kindness was not shown to vulnerable women by either church or state. The Taoiseach described the treatment of these…
  • Jan 13, 2021

    102,000 euro worth of drugs seized by Gardai in Ballina

    €102,000 worth of suspected cocaine and cannabis herb was seized by Gardai in Ballina yesterday. As part of an intelligence led operation targeting the sale and supply of illegal drugs Gardaí attached to the Mayo Divisional Drugs Unit carried out searches of…
  • Jan 13, 2021

    Bon Secours Sisters apologise for treatment of women & children at Tuam Mother & Baby Home

    The Sisters of Bon Secours, who ran St Mary's Mother and Baby Home in Tuam, says they're willing to participate in a redress scheme for survivors. In a statement, the Order has apologised for its part in the scandal and says that it did not live up to its…
  • Jan 13, 2021

    "Close contact" healthcare workers called back to work

    Healthcare workers, who are deemed close contacts of someone with Covid 19, are being asked to return to work if they have no symptoms. It comes as the number of patients in hospital with the virus hits another record high. 1,750 patients are being treated in…
  • Jan 13, 2021

    "Deflated and confused" is the reaction of Catherine Corless to Report on Mother and Baby Homes

    “Deflated, disappointed and confused” is how Tuam based historian Catherine Corless described her reaction to yesterday’s webinar where survivors of Mother And Baby Homes got their first glance at the 3000 page Commission Report into Mother and Baby Homes.…
  • Jan 13, 2021

    Sally Rooney's third novel will be published in September

    The third novel from bestselling Castlebar author Sally Rooney will be published later this year. Publishing company Faber has confirmed that Sally's new novel "Beautiful World, Where Are You", will be available from the 7th September next. The Castlebar…
  • Jan 13, 2021

    Mayo Coroner will not hold inquests in January or February, due to Covid-19

    No inquests will be held in this area for January or February, due to the deteriorating Covid situation. The Coroner for Mayo Pat O'Connor has confirmed that will not be holding any inquests this month or next, while the Coroners' Society of Ireland has…
  • Jan 13, 2021

    Aldi is hiring now at its Mayo and Sligo stores

    Aldi Ireland today announced that it is seeking to recruit 18 new employees for its stores in Counties Mayo and Sligo. Opportunities available include 16 permanent positions. The supermarket chain is recruiting more than 1,050 new store employees across the…
  • Jan 13, 2021

    Galway records highest number of new Covid-19 cases

    Galway recorded the highest number of new cases of Covid-19 in the country yesterday at 604. The Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Councillor James Charity says he's disappointed but not surprised to see such high numbers. While the picture nationally…
  • Jan 13, 2021

    Taoiseach to make State apology today to Mother & Baby Home survivors

    The Taoiseach will make a formal state apology to Mother and Baby Home survivors in the Dáil later today. It follows yesterday's publication of the long-awaited Commission of Investigation report, which found an "appalling" level of infant mortality among the…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Over 1,000 new Covid-19 cases this evening across Galway & Mayo

    There's a huge increase this evening in the number of new Covid-19 cases in Galway and Mayo. The Department of Health has reported an additional 46 deaths related to the virus - two of which occurred last month and the remaining deaths this month. There have…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Mayo Senator Paddy Burke one of three senators readmitted to FG

    Mayo Senator Paddy Burke is one of three Fine Gael senators who have been readmitted, after being stripped of the party whip over their attendance at the Oireachtas Golf Society dinner in Clifden last August. Senators Paddy Burke, Jerry Buttimer and John…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Investigation into Mother & Baby Homes found "appalling" level of infant mortality

    A five-year investigation into Mother and Baby Homes has found an "appalling" level of infant mortality among children born in the homes. Out of the 18 homes examined by the Commission of Investigation, - including the Tuam Mother & Baby Home - a total of 9…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Candles lighting in the homes of survivors of Mother and Baby Homes today and tomorrow

    A candle has been lighting throughout the day today and will light again throughout the day tomorrow in the homes of the survivors of Mother and Baby Homes who this afternoon got their first glimpse of the 3000 page Report of the Commission of Investigation…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Mayo University Hospital says rising Covid cases putting pressure on bed availability, and ambulance delays

    The Saolta Hospital Group has confirmed that some ambulances have been delayed at Mayo University Hospital's Emergency Department, due to the pressure on bed availability in the hospital - particularly for Covid-19 patients. In a statement to Midwest News…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Chaplain denied entry to Castlerea Prison, due to his beard

    It's emerged that the chaplain at Castlerea Prison has been denied entry to the prison, due to his beard. Deacon Seamus Talbot - who's a part-time chaplain - refused to shave his beard which he has worn for years, while the prison governor ordered that anyone…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Dept of Education Inspectorate to check in with schools weekly during Level 5 Restrictions

    The Department of Education Inspectorate will engage with schools on a weekly basis during Level 5 restrictions. That's according to the teacher's union the INTO. It's over concerns raised by parents that some schools have not as yet set up remote learning…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Ambulances delayed for several hours at Mayo University Hospital

    As rising Covid-19 cases puts increasing pressure on the health service, Midwest News has learnt that up to 5 ambulances were backed up at Mayo University Hospital last night, and it took several hours before the ambulance personnel could transfer the…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Adoptee rights group says commission report will not sufficiently tell stories of Mother and Baby Homes survivors

    Well as anticipation builds ahead of the Commission of Investigation report into Mother and Baby Homes, an adoptees identity rights group says it will not sufficiently tell survivors’ stories. Aitheantas founder Maree Ryan O’Brien argues that the report remit…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Increasing number of Covid patients being treated at Mayo University Hospital

    The HSE CEO Paul Reid has confirmed that the number of Covid patients being treated in hospitals across the country has increased to 1,700, with 158 of these patients in ICU - a new record. 13 hospitals have no intensive care beds free, as the third wave of…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Lough Carra features on RTE One programme at 7pm tonight

    Tonight at 7pm Lough Carra features on an RTE One Television programme "The Last Lake". Eco Eye filmed the county Mayo lake in 2020 and the programme investigates the extensive changes threatening one of Europe's last remaining maerl lakes. The water has…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Staffing levels at SUH hit by Covid related issues

    30 percent of staff in the Emergency Department at Sligo University Hospital are unavailable for work at present due to Covid 19. That includes staff who have Covid-19, who have symptoms of the virus or are close contacts of a positive case. This is putting…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Covid-19 cases continue to rise at MUH

    13 intensive care units nationally are full, while there are 30 adult ICU beds available. 1,700 people with Covid-19 are being treated in Irish hospitals this morning, including 144 patients in ICU. Galway University Hospital has 116 patients with confirmed…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Survivors of Mother and Baby Homes get first view of Commission Report this lunchtime

    At 1.30 this afternoon survivors of Mother and Baby Homes will get their first glance at the long-awaited report by the Commission of Investigation into the institutions. The survivors and supporters will be joined by the Minister for Children Roderic…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Weather warning remains in effect across Mayo and Sligo

    A Status Yellow rainfall warning remains in effect for Mayo and Sligo today. Persistent and occasionally heavy rainfall caused some localised flooding in places overnight, with an ongoing risk of spot flooding this morning. The warning remain in effect until…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Record number of patients in hospitals nationally with Covid 19 overnight

    The number of patients with Covid-19 in hospitals has increased to 1,620. Thirteen hospitals nationally are now listed as having no intensive care beds free. There are 30 ICU beds available in the system for adult patients, according to overnight figures from…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Commission report into Mother and Baby Homes comes before Cabinet later

    The Commission of Investigation's final report into Mother and Baby Homes will be brought to Cabinet later. It's expected to show 9,000 children died in the institutions - around 1 in 7 of the babies born there. The commission was set up in 2015 following…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Erris councillor calls for a pop-up Covid-19 test centre for Belmullet

    A pop-up Covid-19 test centre should be set up in Belmullet, an area with extremely high levels of the virus at present - that's according to Erris-based Fianna Fail Councillor Sean Carey. Figures published late last week showed the Belmullet electoral area…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    NPHET says hospitals remain under threat as current Covid wave begins to stabilise

    NPHET says the country's "beginning to turn a corner" in tackling the current wave of Covid-19 - but that hospitals will remain under threat in the weeks ahead. A further 8 deaths linked to the virus were confirmed last night with 4,929 new cases. In this…
  • Jan 12, 2021

    Director of Public Health at HSE West calls on public to stay home amid soaring infection rates

    The Director of Public Helath at HSE West is urging people across Mayo, Galway and Roscommon to stay at home amid soaring infection rates across the region. The current 14 day incidence is 815 per 100,000 in Galway; 1303 per 100,000 in Mayo and in 821 per…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    8 further deaths from Covid-19, with 4,929 new cases confirmed

    4,929 Covid cases have been confirmed this evening and 8 additional deaths. In this region, there are 225 new cases in Galway, 185 in Mayo, 72 in Roscommon and 22 in Sligo. As of this afternoon, 1,582 patients are in hospital with 146 patients with the virus…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    Taoiseach says new UK variant of Covid-19 found in almost half of most recent samples here

    The new UK variant of Covid-19 has been found in nearly half of the most recent cases examined here. Last week, the strain - which can spread much easier - was detected in 25 per cent of samples tested, but accounted for 45% of the most recent 92 samples that…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    Local groups react to EY report on Western Rail Corridor

    A new report has concluded that extending the Western Rail Corridor from Athenry to Tuam and onto Claremorris would not provide value for money, and would do little to reduce traffic congestion. The report was carried out by accountancy firm EY, and has been…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    An Post warns of delays in delivering Christmas cards & parcels

    People will be getting Christmas cards and parcels delivered throughout January. An Post says the number of international flights continues to be severely impacted by the Covid-19 crisis, with only limited space available for letters and packages. As a result…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    Search for missing Galway man stood down, following discovery of a body

    Gardai have confirmed that the search for a missing Galway man has been stood down, following the discovery of a body yesterday. A search had been ongoing since 29th December for 43-year old Fergal Guilfoyle, who was last seen in the Newcastle Road area of…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    Tuam survivor group echoes Minister's anger at leak of Mother and Baby Homes report

    The Taoiseach says it's "regrettable" that details of the Mother and Baby Homes report were leaked before survivors were told about the findings. The report will come before cabinet tomorrow and the Taoiseach is to issue a state apology in the Dáil later this…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    Reports conclude extending Western Rail Corridor would not provide value for money

    A new report has concluded that extending the Western Rail Corridor from Athenry to Tuam and onto Claremorris would not provide value for money, and would do little to reduce traffic congestion.The report was carried out by accountancy firm EY, and was…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    LISTEN: Ann Lynch - "18 years since my last alcoholic drink"

    Ann Lynch wrote: "It’s been 18 years today since I had my last alcoholic drink. That date on January 6th , 2003 what seemed the saddest day of my life has actually turned out to be the best day of my life....from that day I started to truly live life. Blessed…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    82 patients with Covid-19 are being treated at Mayo University Hospital

    1,575 people with Covid-19 are being treated in Irish hospitals this morning. It's an increase of 149 patients since yesterday morning. In the past 24 hours there have been 104 admissions and 26 discharges from hospital. Across the region there are 102…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    Weather warning issued for Mayo and Sligo

    Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow rainfall warning for Mayo and Sligo. Persistent and occasionally heavy rainfall may cause some localised flooding in places. The warning comes into effect at 12 noon today and will remain in effect for 24 hours.
  • Jan 11, 2021

    Over 70’s driving licence medical report exemption extended

    The exemption that allows over 70's to apply for a driving licence without the need to provide a medical report will be extended until June. That has been announced today by the Minister of State in the Department of Transport, Hildegarde Naughton T.D. The…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    Leaking of Mother and Baby Homes report met with disappointment from survivors

    Survivors of Mother and Baby Homes are disappointed that details of the Mother and Baby Homes report were leaked over the weekend. It's expected to show that 9,000 children died in 18 facilities investigated. A copy of the document is to be given to survivors…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    Regulations restricting price promotions for alcohol products introduced

    From today, customers will no longer be able to earn loyalty card points when buying alcohol. The measure is part new regulations under the Public Health Act, which looks to restrict price promotions involving drink. Price promotions which apply to other…
  • Jan 11, 2021

    Warning that Ireland has almost the highest rate of Covid-19 globally

    A public health expert says Ireland has almost the highest rate of coronavirus in the world. 6,888 new cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the Republic along with 8 more deaths. There are 2,088 infections in Dublin, 862 in Cork, 469 in Limerick, 405 in…
  • Jan 10, 2021

    6,888 new cases of Covid-19

    6,888 new cases of covid 19 have been confirmed, which is higher than yesterday's figure of 4,842. Eight more people with the virus have died. There are 2,088 infections in Dublin, 862 in Cork, 469 in Limerick, 405 in Wexford and 320 in Waterford - the rest…
  • Jan 10, 2021

    HSE Chief says the health system is under 'increasing strain'

    The head of the HSE says Ireland's health system is under 'increasing strain'. Paul Reid's comments come as 1,421 people are now being treated in hospital for Covid-19, while 121 are in intensive care. There are 69 people with the virus being treated at Mayo…
  • Jan 10, 2021

    New HSE Medical Hub set to be located in Castlebar

    A new state of the art, HSE medical hub, is to be located in Castlebar. It’s one of three such developments about to be approved for funding by the Minister for Health for counties Mayo, Galway and Roscommon. That’s according to the Cathaoirleach of the…
  • Jan 10, 2021

    Farmers plagued by criminal activity throughout 2020 despite the pandemic

    Criminals have continued to plague rural Ireland despite the pandemic, with trailer and cattle thefts reaching record levels, according to the Irish Farmers Journal. The paper reveals that over 1,000 cattle nationally were reported stolen or missing last year…
  • Jan 10, 2021

    Report into Mother & Baby Homes set to reveal 9,000 children died in the institutions investigated

    The Commission of Investigation report into mother and baby homes is set to reveal 9,000 children died in the institutions investigated. The Sunday Independent says the report, due to be presented to Cabinet on Tuesday, found 56,000 women were sent to the 18…
  • Jan 10, 2021

    Almost 1,300 people with Covid-19 currently in hospitals

    The HSE plan to take emergency control of up to 30 percent of private hospital capacity could come into effect within days. Under the terms of the contract, seen by the Business Post, it could be triggered if key indicators, such as an ICU number of more than…
  • Jan 09, 2021

    197 new Covid-19 cases in Mayo

    The Department of health has been notified of nine further deaths of people with Covid-19, 4,842 new cases and the number of people in ICU has risen to 119. 1,049 of the cases are in Dublin, 530 in Cork, 514 in Waterford, 405 in Wexford, 247 in Louth and the…
  • Jan 09, 2021

    Mayo Community Call line open 7 days a week - to assist during the pandemic

    Peter Duggan, CE (Interim) of Mayo County Council said, “We must work together to curtail the spread of COVID-19. This is a critical time. I would urge everyone across Mayo to stay at home. You’re not just protecting yourself and your family, but you are…
  • Jan 09, 2021

    Additional garda checkpoints to ensure travel restriction adhered to across the region

    Garda Chief Supt in Mayo Tony Healy is asking the public to follow the restrictions imposed under Level 5 of the Plan for Living with Covid-19 amid rising numbers in Mayo and across the country. He said, “An Garda Síochána has also introduced a range of…
  • Jan 09, 2021

    Saolta appeals to Mayo Public to stick to public health advice re prevention of Covid

    Tony Canavan, CEO of the Saolta Group which has responsibility for the hospitals in the West and North West says they have seen a very significant increase in the number of patients hospitalised with COVID-19 in Mayo University Hospital. In one week from…
  • Jan 09, 2021

    Dr Smyth highlights significant increase in people contracting Covid 19 in Mayo at present

    The HSE has joined with the Mayo County Council and the Gardaí in the county to appeal to the people of Mayo to help prevent the further spread of COVID-19. The three agencies have come together to appeal to people to follow the public health advice and stay…
  • Jan 09, 2021

    Clare Lake /McMahon Park committee concerned about youth skating on icy lake

    The Clare Lake / McMahon Park committee in Claremorris say they have become aware of young adults skating on the ice in Clare Lake during the present cold spell. PRO for the committee Austin Garvin told Midwest News today that this is a highly irresponsible…
  • Jan 09, 2021

    Icy canals, ponds and lakes pose danger to children

    A warning's going out to parents not to let their children play on icy canals, ponds and lakes. Water Safety Ireland's making the call as ice can be quite thick in one area but much thinner close to the same area. It's advising parents to supervise their…
  • Jan 09, 2021

    Two awards for Mayo students at the 2021 BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition

    Mayo students were recognised and commended at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2021 Awards Ceremony yesterday. Two awards were presented to students in the county for their impressive projects entered in this year’s virtual exhibition. Caoimhe…
  • Jan 09, 2021

    The Mayor of Boston, with strong Galway connections appointed as US Secretary of Labour

    The Mayor of Boston, Marty Walsh, has been appointed by US President-elect Joe Biden as Secretary of Labor. Marty’s parents, who emigrated to Boston in the 1950s, are from county Galway and he has been a frequent visitor to Ireland. Making the announcement…
  • Jan 09, 2021

    Councillor baffled as birds given precedence over human safety

    An Erris councillor says he is baffled and bemused on hearing that work on the construction of a seawall along the Mullet Peninsula cannot start because it may interfere with wintering birds. Councillors approved a plan by Mayo County Council to carry out…
  • Jan 09, 2021

    St Augustine's resident urges everyone to take vaccine

    The first vaccinations by Community Healthcare Wests’ COVID-19 vaccination campaign in residential facilities in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon got underway on Thursday last. (Ellen) Agnes Bourke a native of Rathall, Crossmolina, was the first resident at the HSE…
  • Jan 09, 2021

    130 new cases of the virus confirmed yesterday in Mayo

    The number of people being treated in hospital for Covid-19 across the country is now 1,285, up 134 on yesterday. Of these 107 are in intensive care. The latest numbers were tweeted this morning by the head of Health Service Executive Paul Reid. There were 20…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    20 further deaths from Covid-19 with 8,248 new cases

    There have been 20 further coronavirus-related deaths and 8,248 new cases of the disease notified to the Department of Health. Three cases of the new Covid-19 variant that originated in South Africa has been found in Ireland. 3,013 of the cases are in Dublin,…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    Westdoc received almost 6,500 calls in a 15 hour period last weekend

    In a 15 hour period last weekend the Westdoc telephone system received over 6480 calls. GP contacts increased by almost 400% with Over 60% of calls for Covid testing. Systems normally manned by 12 operators had up to 30 lines in operation and were unable to…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    Man arrested after drugs seized in Roscommon Town

    Gardaí have arrested a man and seized €4,300 worth of suspected cannabis herb in Roscommon town. The detection was made shortly before 7pm yesterday evening when Gardaí attached to the Roscommon/Longford Divisional Drugs Unit stopped a car at The Walk…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council implores people of Mayo to redouble our efforts

    As Covid-19 spreads rapidly throughout every village, town and parish in Mayo, we must double down in our efforts as a response to the growing tide of confirmed cases in the county. That's the message from Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council Richard Finn.…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    Mayo county council to close a number of public car parks from 6pm this evening

    Mayo County Council has announced this afternoon that a number of local authority car parks in the county will be closed to the public from this evening. Following a request from local Gardai, the council Car Parks at Lough Lannagh (both at Lake and new…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    Temperatures could drop to -8 degrees tonight

    Met Eireann is advising that tonight could be the coldest night of the year so far, with temperatures in places dipping to -8 degrees. Widespread icy conditions are being reported across the region again today. Particular care is needed on secondary and minor…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    54 patients with Covid 19 being treated in MUH today

    The number of people with Covid-19 being treated in intensive care units nationally has passed 100. There are 1,151 people in hospitals across the country with Covid-19 - an increase of 108 from yesterday - with 101 patients in ICU as of this morning. The…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    As Construction sites close this evening, cllr calls for sites to be adequately closed off

    A Castlebar based Councillor has called on all construction site operators who have to close sites from this evening due to new Covid restrictions to ensure that these sites are fully secured from a health and safety perspective. Fine Gael Councillor Ger…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    Galway County Council services gone online

    Galway County Council is advising that public access to our offices is now restricted, in line with recent Covid-19 measures, to an appointment only service for exceptional circumstances where essential business can only be conducted in person. As providers…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    Emergency services at collision on the N26 Foxford to Swinford Road

     Emergency services are the scene of a single vehicle collision on the N26 road, the Foxford side of Cloonguillane bridge. That's along the main Foxford to Swinford road. Motorists are advised that road conditions in the area are treacherous at present.
  • Jan 08, 2021

    Localised curfew and vaccine priority for healthcare staff called for in Belmullet

    A curfew from 9pm to 6am daily now needs to be considered by government for hotspot covid 19 areas like the Belmullet Electoral area at present. That’s the view of local GP Dr Keith Swanick. In addition he is calling for priority vaccination for the area,…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    NPHET says the number of Covid 19 cases nationally may be starting to level off

    NPHET says there's a possibility Covid-19 case numbers may be starting to level off. A further 6,521 new cases were confirmed last night and 10 further deaths. 184 new cases were reported in Galway yesterday, 119 in Mayo, 85 in Sligo, 31 in Roscommon and 13…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    7 Mayo projects to share 780,000 euro under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme

    €780,000 in total has been allocated to seven Mayo projects under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. This news has been confirmed by Fine Gael Deputy Michael Ring who says the Town and Village Renewal Scheme is a key part of the Government’s plans for rural…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    Treacherous road conditions reported across the region this morning

    A Status Yellow Low temperature/ice warning is in place for the entire country until 11 this morning. Widespread icy conditions are being reported across the region again this morning. Particular care is needed on secondary and minor roads. Gardai are…
  • Jan 08, 2021

    One in every 50 people in Belmullet Electoral Area contracted Covid 19 over the last 14 days

    The Belmullet Electoral area has the highest number of Covid 19 cases per 100,000 population in the country over the last two weeks. About one in every 50 people had Covid-19 in the region over the last 14 days. A new report also shows some border regions…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Government abandon plans for leaving cert students to attend school three days a week

    Schools will not reopen for leaving cert students next week after a major U-turn by the government tonight. The pupils will continue to study remotely for the rest of the month, like other students. Leaving cert students were due to resume classes in school…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    6,521 new cases of Covid-19

    Another 6,521 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed in the Republic of Ireland. Another ten people have also died with the virus. The number of people in hospital with coronavirus has risen once again, to 1,043, with 96 in intensive care. There are…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Parish Priest of Knock welcomes RTE's apology this evening for their sketch about God

    RTÉ has found a satirical sketch about God that aired on New Year's Eve did not meet a number of its own standards and regulations. Its Editorial Standards Board says the piece, which depicted God as a rapist, caused undue offence and failed to respect…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    15,000 people have received first dose of Covid-19 vaccine

    Over 15 thousand people across the country have been vaccinated against Covid 19 so far. The HSE says its target is to administer 35 thousand doses by the end of this week. Its CEO Paul Reid says an agreement to use private hospitals is being finalised and…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Icy conditions persist across the region as Bus veers off road in Achill

    Bus Eireann have confirmed to Midwest News that one of their buses went off road earlier in the Bunnacurry area of Achill. Extremely icy road conditions have been reported right across the region today. There were no passengers on board the Dooagh to…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Man with Mayo roots quits his role as US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland

    US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland Mick Mulvaney has resigned following violence at the US Capitol last night. Donald Trump's former Chief of Staff told CNBC he couldn't stay in his position. Mr Mulvaney said that others, who are choosing not to resign, are…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Another Weather Warning issued for tonight

    A status yellow ice warning has been issued for the entire country again tonight. Snow has fallen on the ground in many areas today, for the first time this year. With temperatures dropping to minus 4 overnight mountains, fields and roads were covered in…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Erris Councillor pleads with the community to stay at home as the virus is described as prevalent in the area

    An Erris Councillor is pleading with the community to stay at home and stay safe. Gerry Coyle says the infection rate is at its peak in the Erris area at present and now more than ever people need to adhere to the public health guidelines. His plea comes as…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Roads and footpaths remain lethal this lunchtime across county Mayo

    Mayo county council is this lunchtime advising all road users across the county to be very aware of black ice on roads and footpaths today. While council teams are out regritting many of the main routes today , having gritted many of the same routes overnight…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Ballymote to Castlebaldwin road closed to traffic

    The Ballymote to Castlebaldwin road is currently closed due to a HGV blocking the road. Extremely icy conditions mean the road will be closed for a number of hours.
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Garda Supt in Claremorris appeals to road users to slow down this morning due to black ice across the region

    High visibility Garda patrols and covid-19 checkpoints have resumed this morning across the region to coincide with the increased Covid restrictions. The checkpoints are on national and local roads but not motorways. Garda Supt in Claremorris Gabriel Moran…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Man with strong Mayo ties has been formally certified by Congress as winning the US Presidential Election

    Hours after hundreds of President Donald Trump's supporters stormed the US Capitol, Congress has formally certified Democrat Joe Biden's election victory. Immediately after the certification, the White House released a statement from Donald Trump in which he…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Road users warned of icy conditions in places this morning

    Black ice could be a major issue this morning for roadusers , according to the Road Safety Authority. Temperatures dropped to minus 4 in parts of the country overnight, with two status yellow weather warnings for ice and snow in place. Met Eireann says the…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Taoiseach to brief cabinet today on new restrictions

    The Taoiseach will brief Opposition leaders at Government Buildings later today on the Cabinet's new plan to increase public health restrictions. The new measures, which are aimed at reversing the recent rise in cases of the virus, apply to schools,…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Country is likely to see increasing numbers of deaths and ICU admissions in the coming days with Covid spread

    NPHET will discuss the country's record number of Covid-19 cases and hospitalisations when it meets this morning. There are now 954 people in hospital with the virus and 7,836 new cases of Covid 19 were confirmed yesterday - with both figures the highest…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    4 people died during violent protests in Washington yesterday

    Four people have died - including one woman who was shot - during violent protests yesterday, after supporters of Donald Trump stormed the US Capitol building. Politicians were to formally declare Joe Biden the winner of November's election, which Donald…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Anyone living within 5km of Enniscrone beach can access it under present restrictions

    Anyone living with 5km of Enniscrone beach, or any Sligo beach, can continue to access the beach despite the present Level 5 pandemic restrictions. Yesterday Sligo county council updated its information concerning the closing of beaches in the county to the…
  • Jan 07, 2021

    Deputy Naughten claims up to 20 percent of nursing home staff will not be vaccinated with their colleagues and residents

    Roscommon/ Galway deputy Denis Naughten has sought clarity from the Minister for Health on claims that up to one fifth (20%) of staff in long stay homes for older people will not be vaccinated with their colleagues and nursing home residents due to a failure…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Additional Garda Checkpoints to return tomorrow morning

    Garda Covid-19 checkpoints will return from 7am tomorrow morning. An Garda Síochána is to introduce a range of additional measures to support the policing of level 5 restrictions. Additional Gardaí will be deployed to the frontline along with 70 Garda…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Record number of Covid-19 cases confirmed this evening

    A record 7,836 cases of Covid 19 have been reported today and 17 additional deaths. 2,263 of the cases are in Dublin, 1,373 in Cork, 496 in Louth, 345 in Limerick, 340 in Meath and the remaining 3,019 cases are spread across all other counties. There are 178…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Cabinet agrees tighter public health measures

    New restrictions have been unveiled by the Government to contain the spread of Covid 19 and will remain in place until at least the end of January. All schools are to remain closed, with an exception for leaving cert students, who will attend classes three…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    LISTEN: Mayo University Hospital administers its first dose of the Covid Vaccine

    The roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign began in Mayo University Hospital today. Mary Neary Clinical Nurse Manager 2 on C Ward was the first staff member in the hospital to receive the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine. Mary received the vaccine from her…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    First Covid-19 vaccine administered at Mayo University Hospital

    A clinical nurse manager today became the first staff member at Mayo University Hospital to receive the Covid-19 vaccine. Mary Neary, a clinical nurse manager on C Ward, received the Pfizer / BioNTech vaccine from her nursing colleague Padraig O'Lúanaigh,…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Two weather warnings in place for snow and icy temperatures

    Two separate weather warnings for snow and low temperatures have been issued for the entire country. From 8 o'clock tonight a low temperature/ice warning will come in to effect for all 26 counties, with temperatures set to dip to lows of minus four. A status…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Deputy wants clarity over vaccines for elderly, vulnerable and home carers

    Vulnerable and elderly people living in communities need some clarity regarding when they will be able to access the Covid-19 vaccine, according to Roscommon-Galway TD Michael Fitzmaurice. He is calling for the vaccination programme to be expedited, pointing…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Record number of Covid patients in hospital, as Justice Minister tests positive

    A record number of people with Covid-19 are being treated in Irish hospitals today. There are 921 patients on wards - up from 817 yesterday morning - and includes 76 people in ICU with the virus. The latest available figures show 51 patients with Covid are…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Met Eireann forecasts dusting of snow in Connaught counties this evening into tomorrow morning

    Met Eireann is advising that this evening, overnight and into tomorrow morning Connaught counties may get a dusting of snow, as rain is likely to fall as sleet and snow from sunset this evening into tomorrow. Temperatures dropped as low as -6 degrees in parts…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Two new classrooms for Mountpleasant NS, Ballyglass

    Funding has been awarded to Mountpleasant National School in Ballyglass, county Mayo. The grant was awarded under the Additional Accommodation Scheme 2021. According to Mayo Fine Gael deputy Alan Dillon the new accommodation will comprise of two 15metre…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Funding granted for new construction room at St Nathy's, Ballaghaderreen

    St. Nathy’s College, Ballaghaderreen, has been approved for funding under the Additional Accommodation Scheme 2021 The allocation will allow for the provision of a construction studies room. Local Fianna Fail Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed the news from…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Students from five Mayo schools participating in first-ever virtual Young Scientists & Technology Exhibition

    Students from 5 Mayo secondary schools are taking part in the first-ever virtual BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, which was launched online at 8am this morning. It's the 57th annual exhibition, and the first ever to take place virtually. President…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Temperatures not expected to rise today above zero in parts of Connaught

    As temperatures dropped as low as -6 degrees in parts of Connacht and Ulster last night, road users this morning across the region are advised to take due caution. Gardai say there are no reports of any collisions so far this morning, nonetheless they are…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Mayo County Council's car park at Croagh Patrick is now closed to the public

    Mayo County Council’s car park at Murrisk, Croagh Patrick is now closed to the public due to Level 5 Covid 19 Restrictions. A spokesperson for the local authority told Midwest News that as a result of a request from local Gardai, the car park is closed for…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    100 new jobs announced for Genesys in Galway

    100 new jobs have been announced this morning for Galway city. Tech company Genesys - a global leader in cloud customer experience and contact centre solutions - has announced it's creating 100 new software jobs, as it expands its workforce in Galway. The…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Sub-zero temperatures across Connacht, with drivers urged to take caution on roads

    Drivers across Connacht are being warned about icy conditions this morning, after temperatures dropped to minus-five degrees overnight. A status yellow low temperature alert is in place for all of Connacht, along with Cavan, Monaghan, Donegal, Longford and…
  • Jan 06, 2021

    Cabinet meets later to sign-off on closing schools and construction until end January

    Government ministers will sign-off later today on closing schools and construction sites until the end of the month. It comes amid a surge in Covid-19 cases and hospital admissions. 5,325 confirmed cases of Covid-19 were reported yesterday evening, along with…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Face to face outpatient clinics and elective surgery deferred for 2 weeks at Mayo University Hospital

    Face to face outpatient clinics at Mayo University Hospital are being deferred for the next 2 weeks. The hospital is reverting to virtual outpatient clinics only, and most elective procedures at the Castlebar hospital have also been deferred - apart from…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    17 further deaths from Covid-19, and 5325 new cases confirmed

    5,325 confirmed cases of Covid-19 have been reported this evening, along with 17 further deaths. This includes 140 new cases in Co Galway, 99 new cases in Mayo, 50 in Sligo, 29 in Roscommon and 13 in Sligo. The 14 day incidence is now 674 cases per 100,000…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Historic first online meeting of Galway County Council today

    Today was a historic day for Galway County Council, as the local authority held its first online meeting. The meeting of the county's 39 councillors, executive, staff and members of the media was held online, to consider issues pertaining to the new County…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Ice /low temperature warning in place for Connacht from 6pm this evening

    A status yellow low temperature & ice warning has been issued for Connacht and 5 other counties from 6pm this evening. Met Eireann is warning of a very cold night tonight, with temperatures dropping to between -2 and -5 degrees, possibly colder locally, with…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Chief Medical Officer warns of sharp increase in Covid-19 deaths in the coming weeks

    The Chief Medical Officer has warned that there will be a sharp increase in Covid 19 deaths in the coming weeks. 817 people with Covid-19 are being treated in the country's hospitals this afternoon and 76 are in ICU. There are 50 patients with Covid are being…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Number of public amenities in Sligo closed to the public as Covid 19 rampant in the community

    Sligo County Council is closing a number of public amenities in an attempt to reduce crowds gathering during the present Level 5 Covid Restrictions. On the local authority’s website today the following is stated Arising from concerns expressed by the…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Search stepped up for man missing from north Mayo since November

    The search for a man missing from north Mayo since November has been stepped up today. The man, who's in his late 60's and from the Lacken area, has been missing since mid-November. An extensive search operation got underway after his car was located at…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Dr Smyth says the growth rate of Covid 19 in Mayo at present is very significant

    There is an alarming increase in the growth rate of Covid 19 in county Mayo over the past seven days, of over 100 percent. From New Year’s Eve until Sunday the 3rd of January, the number of new cases of the virus in the county went from 278 to 576. These…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Galway Minister insists Special Schools need to be re-opened despite pandemic

    With it looking unlikely that schools will reopen on Monday next due to the pandemic, Galway Minister calls for an exemption for special schools. The Minister for Disability, Galway East deputy Anne Rabbitte says that she is supporting her colleague Minister…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Carrabeg Estate Residents call for answers from MCC on anti social behavior policy

    Residents of the Carrabeg Estate in Swinford say they are angered and disappointed that Mayo County Council has “failed to answer or adequately respond” to their concerns about anti social behavior by local authority tenants in housing estates. The residents…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Coldest night of the winter so far recorded in Roscommon on Saturday last

    Motorists are being warned to take extra care on the roads as some of the coldest temperatures so far this winter are forecast for tonight, with the likelihood of some snow over the coming days. This morning gardai across the region are advising road users to…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    NPHET says levels of Covid infection in population now higher than first wave peak

    NPHET says the levels of Covid-19 in the community is now higher than the peak of the first wave last spring. The 14-day incidence is now 582 per 100 thousand - but it's estimated to be as high as 800. It's due to thousands of new cases which haven't been…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Senior government ministers will meet later to consider closing schools until the end of the month

    Senior government ministers will meet today to consider closing schools until the end of the month. The cabinet sub-committee on Covid-19 will discuss the proposal before a final decision is made tomorrow. It comes as 6,110 new cases of the virus were…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    73 adults abused as children awaiting social workers in Galway and Roscommon

    Over 560 adults who were abused as children have not been allocated a social worker. They include 70 'high priority' cases. The second highest total nationally is in Galway and Roscommon. The term 'retrospective abuse' refers to abuse an adult experienced as…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Aurivo Marts defer reopening for one week due to Covid

    Aurivo Marts have decided to defer the reopening of its Marts for one week from the previously scheduled dates. The move comes in light of the rising Covid-19 numbers and in the interest of the health and safety of their customers and staff. The following…
  • Jan 05, 2021

    Investigation underway following raid of suspected shebeen in Mayo

    Gardai have raided a suspected shebeen in Co Mayo, and seized a large amount of alcohol. It's the latest one discovered by the force as they enforce Covid-19 laws on indoor gatherings. Gardai found this suspected shebeen when they searched an outhouse in…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Covid-19 daily figures continue to rise with 6,110 cases reported this evening

    There were 6,110 new Covid-19 cases reported this evening and 6 additional deaths. In this region, there were 111 new cases in Mayo, 116 in Galway, 33 in Sligo, 24 in Roscommon and 12 in Leitrim. The 14-day incidence rate of the virus is now 582 per 100,000…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Reopening of schools to be discussed at Cabinet sub-committee meeting tomorrow

    The reopening of schools on Monday is expected to be discussed when the Cabinet Sub-committee on Covid 19 meets tomorrow. The three party leaders along with the Health, Finance and Public Expenditure Ministers will attend as well as senior health officials.…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Elective surgery and outpatient clinics being deferred at Galway University Hospitals

    Elective procedures and outpatient appointments are being cancelled at University Hospital Galway and Merlin Park Hospital in response to the growing numbers of Covid-19. The Saolta Hospital group has confirmed to Midwest News this evening that face to face…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Mayo hospital manager urges public to stay at home to curb rapid spread of Covid-19

    The number of daily Covid 19 cases is likely to hit 7,000 in the coming days. The head of the HSE Paul Reid says non urgent healthcare in hospitals is going to be cancelled as a result. 744 people are in hospital with the virus at present and it's rising at a…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    MCC responds to complaints over its closed Civic Amenity Centres on Saturday last

    A number of listeners to Midwest News today questioned why the recycling facilities / dumps at Derrinumera, outside Castlebar and Rathroeen in Ballina were closed to the public on Saturday last. Saturday last was more than a week since Christmas Day, and many…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Government to undertake a Strategic Rail Review of the Rail network of the island of Ireland

    Minister Eamonn Ryan’s intention to undertake a Strategic Rail Review of the rail network to examine the strategic context for investment in the rail network on the entire Island of Ireland, is very welcome according to Tuam Independent deputy Sean Canney.…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Wesport Post Office remains closed, while Newport reopened this morning

    An Post has confirmed that the Westport Post Office remains closed. Both Westport and Newport Post Offices were closed for several days last week. The Post Office in Newport has reopened this morning. However, An Post says it appears the Westport post office…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Investigation underway after light aircraft crash in Killala Bay

    An investigation is underway following an incident in Killala Bay yesterday, where a light aircraft crashed. It's understood the two occupants of the aircraft walked away from the scene without any visible injuries. The Air Accident Investigation Unit of the…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Sage Advocacy calls for clarity on nursing home vaccination protocols

    The vaccination of nursing home residents and staff has gotten underway today. The inoculation process begins in Mayo on Monday next and will be concluded on the 29th of January. Anyone in the facilities who is Covid-19 positive will have to wait four weeks…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    51 patients with Covid-19 being treated at Mayo University Hospital

    There are currently 51 patients with confirmed Covid-19 being treated at Mayo University Hospital. This is the third highest figure among Irish hospitals - after the Beaumont Hospital in Dublin and Cork University Hospital. Elsewhere in this region, there are…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Questions on why MCC recycling facilities closed at the weekend

    A number of listeners to Midwest News have questioned why the recycling facilities / dumps at Derrinumera, outside Castlebar and Rathroeen in Ballina were closed to the public on Saturday last. This was the Saturday week after Christmas Day, and many…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Councillor appeals to public to stop blaming people with Covid 19 on social media

    A Westport councillor is appealing to people to stop on social media blaming anyone who has contracted Covid 19. Cllr Brendan Mulroy insists now is not the time to be blaming anyone for the spread of the virus, rather he is appealing to people to take a step…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Teenager who died in Kerry fall yesterday was a native of Salthill

    The teenager who was tragically killed in a hill walking accident in Kerry yesterday afternoon was a native of Salthill, Galway. 17 year old James Harrison was walking with his parents at Bull’s Head at Lispole in the Dingle Penisula when he slipped and fell.…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Gardai across the region urge motorists to take due caution with icy conditions on roads this morning

    Gardai across the region are advising road users to be aware of icy and slippery conditions on roads this morning. With freezing temperatures overnight, there are no reports of any particularly dangerous locations so far this morning, but generally motorists…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Warning to take care on icy roads as cold snap set to continue

    Galway County Council crews have been busy gritting approximately 1250km of primary, secondary, regional and local roads overnight. That’s according to the Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council James Charity, as the entire country feels the effect of a cold…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Chief Medical Officer warns current virus trends are not sustainable

    The current Covid-19 trends are not sustainable for the health system, according to the Chief Medical Officer. There are fears the HSE may not be able to provide tests to people with symptoms due to demand, instead focusing on vulnerable groups. 4,962 more…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    The vaccination of nursing homes residents begins

    Vaccines will start to be given to nursing home residents today. Sage Advocacy says it's looking forward to the rollout to protect residents and staff from the coronavirus. The Health Minister Stephen Donnelly plans to give people in the country's 580 nursing…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    540 staff at University Hospital Galway receive Covid-19 vaccine

    Well over 3,500 people have had their first vaccine shot against Covid-19 in the last week -- with clinics to be extended nationwide in the coming days. It's after two thousand health workers were vaccinated in Cork City hospitals in the last three days…
  • Jan 04, 2021

    Woman due in court charged in connection with a fatal hit and run in Galway

    A woman in her mid 50s is due in court today charged in connection with a hit and run in County Galway last month. A woman was killed when she was knocked down near a pub in Furbo. This hit and run happened while a woman in her mid 50s was walking on the…
  • Jan 03, 2021

    4,962 new cases of Covid-19 with seven additional deaths

    The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 7 additional deaths related to COVID-19 and 4,962 new confirmed cases. 1,260 of the cases are in Dublin, 652 in Limerick, 350 in Cork, 321 in Louth, 238 in Meath and 2,141 spread across all…
  • Jan 03, 2021

    Repairs completed to burst watermain affecting the Galway Clinic

    Repairs to a burst watermain impacting water supply of customers on the Monivea Road have now been completed. This watermain burst on the Monivea Road, near the Clayton Hotel, occurred last night and the Briarhill & Doughiska areas were affected, leaving up…
  • Jan 03, 2021

    Young Mayo country singer bids for stardom on The Voice UK

    A young country singer from Mayo is bidding for stardom on the new series of The Voice UK. Chantelle Padden, from Binghamstown near Belmullet, is the only Irish contestant who gets the opportunity to sing for Tom Jones, Will.i.am, Anne-Marie and Olly Murs on…
  • Jan 03, 2021

    Mayo priest hits out at skit broadcast on RTÉ depicting God as a 'rapist'

    A Mayo priest has labelled a satirical skit broadcast on RTÉ branding God a rapist as 'an ignorant act of offensive material masked in the form of comedy.' Father Richard Gibbons, the rector of Knock Shrine, hit out at the New Year's Eve countdown programme…
  • Jan 03, 2021

    Sligo Deputy says more urgency is needed with the rollout of the Covid vaccine

    Sligo Fianna Fail TD Marc McSharry says the rollout of the Covid vaccine isn't being treated with the urgency required. He says only 5 per cent of the 40 thousand doses received here were administered by Friday night. He says the Government must contact…
  • Jan 03, 2021

    Irish Water dealing with a burst watermain which is affecting the Galway Clinic

    Irish Water working in partnership with Galway City Council wish to advise that a burst watermain will cause an impact to the supply of customers on the Monivea Road. This watermain burst on the Monivea Road, near Clayton Hotel, occurred during the night and…
  • Jan 03, 2021

    Westdoc has reported over a thousand calls a day this weekend

    An unprecedented number of calls to out of hours services nationally regarding Covid 19 tests had led to delays for others needing urgent medical treatment In Galway, Mayo and Roscommon, the Westdoc service has reported over 1,000 calls a day this weekend…
  • Jan 03, 2021

    Warning that there could be up to 3,000 Covid-19 hospital admissions by the end of the month

    The HSE's Chief Clinical Officer's warning there could be up to 3,000 Covid-19 hospital admissions by the end of the month if the current growth rate continues. Dr. Colm Henry says if this plays out, it will result in the health system being overrun. 673…
  • Jan 03, 2021

    Status Yellow Low Temperature & Ice Warning in place this morning

    A cold snap is gripping the whole country this morning, with a status yellow low temperature and ice warning in place until 10am. Met Eireann's warning of icy roads, with potentially dangerous conditions nationwide. The cold snap is expected to continue into…
  • Jan 02, 2021

    233 new Covid-19 cases in Mayo

    There are 3,394 new cases of coronavirus in the Republic - that's nearly double the previous record. 4 more patients have died and Cork has the most cases with 389. Dublin has 355 new infections, while Donegal has 339 and there are 258 in Louth and 233 in…
  • Jan 02, 2021

    Water outage affecting a number of Foxford residents this afternoon

    The water supply is currently off for a number of homes in the Foxford area this afternoon. The outage was caused by a burst to a water main earlier today. It occurred at the Chapel Road area of the town. Mayo County Council water restoration crews working on…
  • Jan 02, 2021

    Low temperature and ice warning issued for the country tonight

    A Status Yellow low temperature and ice warning has been issued for the country this evening. Temperatures will fall to minus 3 or 4 degrees tonight, colder locally away from coasts. This will lead to a widespread hard ground frost and icy surfaces, with…
  • Jan 02, 2021

    N26 reopens to traffic in Mayo following lorry crash overnight

    Gardaí attended the scene of a single vehicle road traffic collision on the N26 earlier today. The incident occurred on a stretch of the road between Foxford and Swinford at around 1.30am this morning. An articulated lorry lost control during severe weather…
  • Jan 02, 2021

    Number of Covid-19 cases at MUH increases

    The head of the HSE says we have yet to see the worst impacts of the recent surge in Covid-19 on the health service. Paul Reid is appealing to the public to play their part to protect the system. There are 581 people with the virus in hospital nationwide - an…
  • Jan 02, 2021

    Galway City Council prompted to close public amenities by Gardaí

    Galway City Council has announced the closure of a number of amenities across the city to help curb the spread of Covid-19 following a request from Gardaí. The Blackrock Diving Tower, all parking along the Salthill Promenade and vehicle access to Silverstrand…
  • Jan 02, 2021

    Gardaí attended the scene of two road traffic collisions at Raheenbar yesterday

    Gardaí attended the scene of two road traffic collisions in Raheenbar, Castlebar yesterday morning. The incidents occurred at approximately 7.15am and 7.30am respectively. Two cars left the road in icy conditions during these separate incidents. No injuries…
  • Jan 02, 2021

    Gardaí urge motorists to take care due to icy conditions this morning

    Gardaí are urging motorists to take care on roads across the region this morning. Black ice has been reported on secondary and local routes following frosty conditions overnight. Slow down, drive carefully and allow extra time for your journey. Meanwhile,…
  • Jan 02, 2021

    Prolonging interval between Covid vaccine shots to aid rollout speed examined

    The period between the two required doses of the Covid-19 vaccine could be extended, in order to accelerate the rollout. The chair of the vaccine taskforce says they're exploring the issue following a formal request from the Chief Medical Officer. Speaking to…
  • Jan 02, 2021

    9 more cases of UK Covid-19 variant detected in Ireland

    9 further cases of the UK variant of Covid-19 have been detected in Ireland. The head of the National Virus Reference Laboratory in UCD, Cillian De Gascun, says they were identified in samples taken between December 23rd and 29th. He says the proportion works…
  • Jan 02, 2021

    CMO warns health system won't cope with increasing Covid hospitalisations

    The Chief Medical Officer is warning the health system won't be able to cope with the increasing number of people being hospitalised with Covid-19. There are 581 patients with the virus in hospital this morning - up 73 since yesterday - and Dr Tony Holohan…
  • Jan 01, 2021

    104 new cases of Covid-19 in Mayo

    The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 11 additional deaths related to COVID-19. There are 1,754 new confirmed cases of COVID-19. 523 of the cases are in Dublin, 296 in Cork, 180 in Galway, 104 in Mayo, 94 in Kerry and the…
  • Jan 01, 2021

    Return of ECCE is delayed until January 11th

    Pre-schools centres will stay closed until January 11th. Minister for Children Roderic O'Gorman met with members of the ECCE today and accepted their request to align the reopening of early learning centres with schools. The ECCE pre-school programme provides…
  • Jan 01, 2021

    Head of the HSE says the virus is "rampant" in the community

    The Head of the HSE says the virus is 'rampant' in the community, with positivity rates at 22 percent yesterday. Paul Reid says some centres reported that half of the tests carried out came back with a positive result. People who are identified as close…
  • Dec 31, 2020

    67 new confirmed cases of Covid 19 in Mayo today

    1,620 new cases of covid 19 have been confirmed this evening and 12 more people with the virus have died. The Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan says the alarming escalation in the incidence of the virus in the general population gives great cause for…
  • Dec 31, 2020

    Westport and Newport Post Offices temporarily closed

    An Post has this afternoon issued a notice that Westport PO has closed temporarily due to circumstances beyond the control of An Post. Post office services including payments from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection will be available at…
  • Dec 31, 2020

    Public asked not to leave donation bags outside Hospice Shops closed due to Level 5 Restrictions

    The Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation is again appealing to people across the region not to leave bags of goods outside their shops, as level 5 Covid 19 Restrictions are in place, and the shops are closed and cannot deal with the donations. Martina Jennings…
  • Dec 31, 2020

    Unprecedented demand today for Covid testing in Mayo, Galway and Roscommon

    HSE Community Healthcare West is notifying the public today that it is experiencing unprecedented demand for COVID-19 tests at the Galway, Mayo and Roscommon test sites. If you receive notice of a test and are unable to attend, you are asked please to advise…
  • Dec 31, 2020

    Eleven burglaries over the last five days in Mayo

    Eleven burglaries have occurred across county Mayo over the past five days and Westport based Garda Tony McCabe is appealing to householders and businesses to be on alert and ensure your property is protected. A man has been arrested for two of the incidents,…
  • Dec 31, 2020

    Sharp criticism that childcare facilities or créches won't be delayed reopening like schools

    Early Childhood Ireland has sharply criticised the move by Government to treat early years and childcare providers differently to schools in the latest Covid-19 measures, announced last night. The organisation – which has 3,800 members nationwide, supporting…
  • Dec 31, 2020

    Court appearance and arrest following fatal hit and run in Galway

    Gardaí in Galway arrested and charged a woman in her mid 50s in connection with a fatal hit and run which occurred on the R336 at Na Forbacha/Furbo, Co Galway on Wednesday December 16th, 2020. The woman was arrested last Sunday December 27th and was…
  • Dec 31, 2020

    Health Experts urging people not to attend New Year's Celebrations tonight

    Health Experts are urging people not to attend New Year’s celebrations tonight. It's after a record 1,718 new cases of Covid-19 were reported yesterday with 13 deaths. There were 112 new cases in Galway, 66 in Mayo, 32 in Sligo, seven in Roscommon and less…
  • Dec 31, 2020

    INMO calling for emergency childcare measures to be put in place for health workers

    The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation want emergency childcare measures to be put in place for health workers. It says members with children are worried they'll have to take time off work because of the extended school holidays. The Union also wants…
  • Dec 31, 2020

    ASTI hopeful that schools closing will have an impact on getting the spread of Covid-19 under control

    One of the country's largest teacher unions is hopeful schools closing will have an impact on getting the spread of Covid-19 under control. The Christmas holidays have been extended until January 11th. Ann Piggot, President of the ASTI said young people could…
  • Dec 31, 2020

    Extremely Icy conditions across East Mayo this morning

    Icy conditions have been reported in most areas this morning, with road temperature well below zero. Particular care is advised in the west and midlands. Gardai say care is needed on all routes across East Mayo. Extreme care is advised on very icy roads in…
  • Dec 31, 2020

    Country moves to full level 5 Covid-19 restrictions

    Non-essential retail is opening for the final day for at least a month, as the country has entered its third lockdown. Household visits were banned at midnight after the third record daily number of Covid-19 infections since Christmas. Meanwhile, school…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    13 further deaths from Covid-19 and over 1,700 new cases

    There have been 1,718 new confirmed cases of Covid 19 in the last 24 hours and 13 further deaths. The national 14-day incidence rate has risen to 272.7, while 455 patients with COVID-19 being treated in hospital. It's the highest number of daily cases…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    30 new jobs will be created in Galway through Enterprise Ireland Companies

    The creation of thirty new jobs in Galway by Enterprise Ireland Companies is a huge boost for the West of Ireland, according to Fine Gael Senator for Roscommon-Galway, Aisling Dolan. The roles are being created in three Enterprise Ireland supported companies…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    British MPs overwhelmingly back EU trade deal

    In the UK, MPs have overwhelmingly backed Boris Johnson's EU trade deal. The UK government's hoping it will go through all of its required parliamentary stages by tonight. The bill passed in the House of Commons with a majority of 448 votes. Meanwhile,…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    HSE chief says worst covid concerns have been realised

    A 'toxic and unprecedented level of scenarios' have emerged as a result of the increase in COVID-19 cases, according to the head of the HSE. Positivity rates for tests on some days are reaching close to 20 percent, including on tests carried out yesterday. It…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    Snow & ice warning extended in Sligo until tomorrow morning

    A cold spell of weather looks set to impact Ireland for the rest of the year. A status yellow snow-ice warning was extended across Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal until 7 o’clock tomorrow morning. There will be further falls of snow in places today and tonight…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    Eir says full service restored on Achill Island

    Eir told Midwest News this afternoon that the outages of its services on Achill Island since Monday last have now been resolved. It says the full service was restored before noon today, stating "there was damage caused by the storm over the weekend which led…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    Deputy pleads with public to reduce contacts now to stop the spread of Covid 19

    Mayo Sinn Fein deputy Rose Conway Walsh in the last number of days has experienced first-hand the GP contact, setting up of a Covid test and securing a result. She describes the system in Mayo as very efficient. The deputy says the increase in cases of the…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    Full Level 5 Restrictions now likely, according to Mayo Deputy

    As the number of confirmed cases of Covid 19 in Mayo and nationally, continue to rise, the Cabinet is to meet this afternoon and full Level 5 restrictions are expected to be imposed. That would involve non-essential retail and gyms closing and travel limited…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    Irish has overtaken Spanish as the most learned language in Ireland this year

    Irish has overtaken Spanish as the most learned language in Ireland this year. A new report from the language learning app Duolingo has shown that 5.6 million subscribers signed up to learn Irish online this year. 36 percent of the learners are in the US, 23…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    Cold weather forecast for the rest of this year

    A cold spell of weather looks set to impact Ireland for the rest of 2020. A status yellow snow-ice warning was lifted across 13 counties at noon time today. Showers of sleet and snow fell overnight while temperatures dropped below freezing. Alan O'Reilly…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    Eir outages in parts of Achill Island

    Midwest News is getting calls from parts of Achill Island today where people say they have had no Eir services since last Monday. They are concerned about the outage in particular, in case of the need to contact doctors and emergency services. They say they…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    Snow and ice warning remains in place for Northwest until noon today

    A status yellow snow-ice warning is in place for 13 counties this morning. The warning from Met Eireann covers counties in the north-west as well as south Leinster and East Munster. Alan O'Reilly from Carlow Weather says cold temperatures could be an issue…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    Minister talks to Irish Times about the imminent publication of the Mother and Baby Homes commission's report

    Details of a “massive societal failure” and misogyny that “permeated” Irish life for decades will be revealed when the Mother and Baby Homes Commission’s report is published next month, Minister for Children Roderic O’Gorman has said. The 3,000-page report…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    Nphet and Cabinet meeting today over rising Covid numbers

    An unscheduled Cabinet meeting will get under way this afternoon to discuss tougher measures to tackle spiralling Covid 19 case numbers. 1,546 new infections were recorded yesterday the highest since the outbreak began. 69 cases of the virus were confirmed…
  • Dec 30, 2020

    INTO calls for extension to Christmas holidays because of latest Covid numbers

    The INTO is calling on the Minister for Education to extend primary schools' Christmas holidays to the end of next week at the earliest. Primary schools are due to reopen on January 6. General Secretary of the teachers' union John Boyle said the number of…
  • Dec 29, 2020

    Castlebar Cllr hits out at latest Covid-19 outbreak at MUH

    Mayo University Hospital has confirmed that there are a number of cases of covid-19 confirmed at the facility at present. This comes as the number of covid hospitalisations has significantly risen across the country today Independent Castlebar Councillor…
  • Dec 29, 2020

    Cabinet to meet tomorrow as Covid hospitalisations increase

    The cabinet will meet tomorrow to discuss the rapid spread of Covid-19, and the sharp rise in hospital admissions. There has been a jump in the number of patients with confirmed cases of Covid-19 today at Mayo University Hospital. The number of patients has…
  • Dec 29, 2020

    Snow & ice warning issued for Sligo overnight

    A status yellow snow-ice warning has been issued for 13 counties overnight. The warning will be in place in Sligo, Leitrim, Donegal and eastern parts of Munster and the south of Leinster. It comes into effect from midnight tonight until 12 midday tomorrow.
  • Dec 29, 2020

    Green light for Crossmolina's new fire station

    Construction is to get underway in 2021 on a new, long awaited, fire station on the Ballina road in Crossmolina. The conditions for staff at the present fire station in Crossmolina, are described as “very poor” and “inappropriate”. Mayo Fianna Fail Td Dara…
  • Dec 29, 2020

    Number of patients with Covid 19 rises at MUH

    There has been a jump in the number of patients with confirmed cases of Covid 19 today at Mayo University Hospital. The number of patients has risen from 9 to 19 over the past 48 hours. 409 people are in hospital nationally with the virus today, the highest…
  • Dec 29, 2020

    Planned rollout of Covid 19 vaccines in Mayo Nursing Homes

    Mayo Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon has welcomed plans by the HSE to being vaccination of nursing home residents and staff in County Mayo which is due to begin on January 11 and be completed by the end of February. “Nursing homes have been asked to register all…
  • Dec 29, 2020

    Garda renew appeal for man missing from Lacken

    Gardaí in north Mayo have renewed their appeal to local landowners to check their outhouses and lands, as part of the ongoing search for a man who went missing in the Downpatrick Head area in November. The man – a 69-year-old Dutch national who has been…
  • Dec 29, 2020

    Gardai seize 7,000 euro of drugs in Ballina house

    Cocaine with an estimated street value of €7000 was seized following the search of a house in Ballina last week. A private house in the Dillon Terrace area of the town was searched under warrant by local Gardaí on December 23, where cocaine was seized along…
  • Dec 29, 2020

    Garda appeal for missing Galway man

    Gardai are appealing for help in tracing a 43 year old man missing from the Galway area. Fergal Guilfoyle was last seen in the Newcastle Road area on Tuesday 15th of December. He is described as being 5'9", with dark receding hair, of slight build with blue…
  • Dec 29, 2020

    First Covid vaccines to be administered today at UHG

    The first Covid-19 vaccine in Ireland will be administered today. It's expected that will happen in one of four major hospitals, Galway and Cork University Hospitals, Beaumont and St James' hospital in Dublin. Only the Netherlands is due to start it's…
  • Dec 29, 2020

    HSE boss appeals to public to answer phone to contact tracers

    The HSE chief executive says an increasing number of people are not answering calls from Covid-19 contact-tracers. Paul Reid says it's a 'concerning trend' because they are a valuable resource to protect people against the virus. Contact-tracers identify…
  • Dec 28, 2020

    765 new cases of Covid-19 with one additional death

    There has been one further coronavirus-related death and 765 new cases reported to the Department of Health. The number of patients in ICU is 30, an increase of four since yesterday. 291 of the cases are in Dublin, 63 in Cork, 59 in Monaghan, 49 in Louth, 43…
  • Dec 28, 2020

    Four new retrofitting centres of excellence announced including one in Connacht

    The Minister for Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris has confirmed the opening of four retrofitting centres of excellence. The centres will open in Limerick & Clare ETB, Mayo Sligo & Leitrim ETB, Cork ETB and Laois & Offaly ETB within the next four…
  • Dec 28, 2020

    Status Yellow wind warning remains in place today across the West

    A Status Yellow wind warning remains in place for Mayo, Galway, Sligo, Donegal, Clare, Cork and Kerry until 2pm today. Met Éireann said today will be blustery with widespread showers of rain or hail, some may turn wintry in fresh to strong and gusty…
  • Dec 27, 2020

    Search underway for a missing man in Galway

    A search will continue tomorrow morning for a missing person in Galway. The Western Division of Boyne Fisherman’s rescue and recovery service have sent several members to assist local authorities in an underwater search for a missing male in the area. Several…
  • Dec 27, 2020

    Four more deaths from Covid-19 & 744 new cases

    The Chief Medical Officer believes there are higher levels of covid 19 circulating in the community than today's case numbers reflect. Dr. Tony Holohon expects a large increase in cases over the coming days, due to the lower volume of tests being carried out…
  • Dec 27, 2020

    Snow & Wind warnings coming into effect later today

    Eight counties are under a status yellow snow and ice warning. The alert for Cavan, Monaghan, Donegal, Longford, Louth, Leitrim, Roscommon and Sligo is in place until 7 o'clock tomorrow morning. Met Eireann says wintry showers are expected, with some…
  • Dec 26, 2020

    1,296 news cases of Covid-19 with 6 additional deaths

    1,296 new cases of coronavirus have been confirmed and 6 more patients with the virus have died. The Chief Medical Officer says we have now returned to the very high levels of COVID-19 circulating in the community that we haven't seen since the peak of Wave…
  • Dec 26, 2020

    Status Yellow wind & rain warning coming into effect this afternoon

    A status yellow wind and rain warning will come into effect from 3 O'Clock this afternoon until the early hours of tomorrow morning. Met Eireann issued them as Storm Bella approaches the country, bringing persistent heavy rain and strong winds. Wind speeds of…
  • Dec 26, 2020

    First batch of Covid-19 vaccines has arrived in Ireland

    The HSE has accepted the delivery of Ireland's first shipment of Covid-19 vaccines, which are now in cold storage. The first of those jabs is due to be administered in four days time. Taoiseach has said he anticipates three different vaccines being available…
  • Dec 25, 2020

    Tanaiste says Brexit Deal was the best one possible for fisheries

    The Tainaiste says the Brexit deal was probably the best one possible for fisheries. However the Irish Fishermen's Organisation hit out at the agreement after it was announced, saying it has 'failed' them. It was one of the major stumbling blocks between the…
  • Dec 25, 2020

    Over One thousand new cases of Covid-19

    Health officials have reported an additional 1,025 cases of Covid-19, with 2 further deaths. Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan has also confirmed that the new UK variant of the virus has been detected in Ireland. He has urged people who arrive from the UK…
  • Dec 24, 2020

    Gardai renew appeal for information on fatal hit and run in Galway

    An Garda Síochána in Galway are renewing their appeal for information following a fatal hit and run collision which occurred on the R336 at Na Forbacha/Furbo, Co Galway on Wednesday December 16th, 2020. A woman in her mid-50s died following the road traffic…