Taoiseach annoyed by crowds gathering in Cork and Dublin over the weekend

Jan 25, 2021

Sinn Fein call for 14-day quarantine for people travelling into Ireland

Sinn Féin has called for full mandatory 14-day quarantine for everyone arriving into Ireland from abroad. They believe mandating people to pay for the two-week isolation period at hotels upon arrival will eradicate non-essential travel almost in its entirety.…

Jan 25, 2021

LISTEN: Vincent Doyle - "Our Fathers"

Vincent Doyle was 28 when he learned that the Catholic Priest he thought was his Godfather was in fact his biological father. Tommy Marren chats to Vincent Doyle – author of a ground breaking book called “Our Fathers” – which looks at life from the…

Jan 25, 2021

Confusion reigns over priority list for Covid 19 Vaccinations, according to Castlebar councillor

No one appears to be in charge of the Covid 19 Vaccination priority list compiled by the government and the HSE. That’s the view of Independent Castlebar councillor Michael Kilcoyne. The councillor who is a member of the HSE Forum, is calling on the Taoiseach…

Jan 25, 2021

Gardai warn the public of scams related to Covid 19 Vaccines

An Garda Síochána, the HSE and The Department of Health are advising members of the public to be aware of potential scams relating to the Covid-19 vaccine. In recent days, gardai are of members of the public having received fraudulent text messages and calls…

Jan 25, 2021

Roscommon records low percentage of workforce on Covid income supports

20 per cent of the workforce is now on benefits because of the Covid 19 pandemic. That's according to figures obtained by the Irish Independent, which shows an unequal picture across the country. Roscommon had one of the lowest rates in the country. These…

Jan 25, 2021

Talks on getting children with special educational needs back to school resume

Talks on getting classes for children with special educational needs will resume today. The Taoiseach said over the weekend these classes will be the priority for a return, while its likely schools won't fully reopen before St Patrick's Day. Labour TD Aodhan…

Jan 25, 2021

Cabinet sub-committee meets later to discuss extending restrictions

The Cabinet sub-committee on Covid-19 will meet today to discuss extending Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions into next month. They will also look at proposals around travel, including five day quarantine for people who arrive into the country without a negative…

Jan 25, 2021

Record number of Covid-19 patients in ICU

219 people with Covid-19 were in ICU in public hospitals last night, the highest since the pandemic began. Last night, there were 25 adult ICU beds free nationally, with 10 hospitals with no capacity. Nationally, in public hospitals there were 1,930 people…

Jan 25, 2021

SIPTU says HSE plan to pause vaccinations for healthcare workers is a cause for major concern

The HSE's plan to pause vaccinations for healthcare workers is a cause for major concern. That's according to Kevin Figgis of SIPTU, who says this planned pause until early February could not come at worse time for health workers. He has highlighted the…

Jan 25, 2021

Castlebar records slight drop to 12th place in latest IBAL survey

Castlebar has recorded a slight slip to 12th place in the latest IBAL survey. Ballymun in Dublin is the worst litter blackspot in the country. The latest Irish Business Against Litter survey shows Kilkenny sparkles as the cleanest city nationwide. Litter…

Jan 25, 2021

Spate of thefts reported from vehicles in Galway City this month

Gardai have taken reports of 19 thefts in the east side of Galway City since January 1st from vehicles in the Ballybrit, Ballybane and Renmore general areas. The types of items taken were cash, wallets, bags, documents, clothing, sunglasses, dash cams,…

Jan 25, 2021

Gardaí reporting 'treacherous' conditions on secondary routes across the region

Gardaí are urging caution on routes across the region this morning following plummeting temperatures overnight and lingering snow. The main routes have been gritted but extreme caution is still advised, particularly on secondary routes, where treacherous…

Jan 24, 2021

1,378 new Covid-19 cases confirmed along with 23 deaths

1,378 new cases of covid 19 have been confirmed along with 23 more deaths. 379 of the new cases are in Dublin, with 145 in Cork, 86 in Wexford, 85 in Galway, 71 in Limerick, and the rest are spread across all other counties. Across the region there were 40…

Jan 24, 2021

Mayo TD launches survey to capture the impact of Covid on third level students

A Mayo Sinn Fein Deputy has launched an online well-being survey to capture the impact of Covid-19 on third level students. Sinn Féin Spokesperson for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Rose Conway-Walsh, says they want to hear…

Jan 24, 2021

Mayo County Council warn that gritting doesn't guarantee ice free roads

Mayo County Council is warning the public that gritted roads do not guarantee ice free roads. Road Safety Officer Noel Gibbons has issued the warning as snow and ice conditions cause trying conditions for road users. He has urged motorists making essential…

Jan 24, 2021

Galway TD calls for a law change to deter the theft of pets

The law should be changed to increase the penalty for people who steal pets. That's according to Independent Galway East TD Sean Canney, who says there should be a clear distinction between robbing an object and taking a companion pet. The matter will be…

Jan 24, 2021

Vaccination targets still being worked on despite AstraZeneca glitch

The Minister for European Affairs says it's too early to say if Ireland will be able to meet its vaccination targets by the end of March. It's after AstraZeneca said deliveries of its soon-to-be-approved jab will be 60 percent less than planned in the next…

Jan 24, 2021

14 more patients with Covid-19 at MUH today

There has been a slight increase in the number of people in hospital with Covid-19. 1,914 people are currently receiving treatment - up 21 since yesterday. There are 116 with the virus at Galway University Hospital, 95 at Mayo University Hospital-up 14, 50 at…

Jan 24, 2021

Two further cold weather warnings issued nationwide

Met Eireann says icy stretches, sleet and snow will remain throughout the day. Two cold weather warnings have been issued for the country, with the latter expiring tomorrow morning. A snow/ice warning is in effect until 7pm this evening with scattered falls…

Jan 24, 2021

Woman airlifted to hospital following suspected gas explosion at a house near Belmullet

Gardaí and emergency services were called to a house near Belmullet shortly after 9am this morning following reports of a suspected gas explosion. A woman understood to be in her 50s was treated at the scene and removed by Air Ambulance to UHG. The scene is…

Jan 24, 2021

Taoiseach says exit from Level 5 will be much slower than previous lockdowns

Ireland's exit from Level 5 will be much slower than previous lockdowns, according to the Taoiseach. Micheal Martin says there'll be a 'conservative' approach, to work alongside the vaccination rollout. Current Level 5 restrictions are due to be formally…

Jan 24, 2021

Snow affecting many parts of the region overnight

Snow has carpeted many parts of the country overnight, affecting roads in some areas. A weather warning for snow and ice is in force across all 26 counties until midday. Extreme caution is advised around Clifden and on the N59 between there and Maam Cross…

Jan 24, 2021

Gardai seize cocaine worth €8,000 & €4,800 in cash in two operations in two Mayo towns

Gardaí have seized cocaine worth almost €8,000 and €4800 in cash in two operations in Kiltimagh and Claremorris. Gardaí from the Mayo Divisional Drugs Taskforce were patrolling in Kiltimagh on Friday evening when they stopped a vehicle and searched the driver…

Jan 23, 2021

77 Covid-19 related deaths and 1,910 new cases

77 additional deaths related to COVID-19 have been confirmed this evening along with 1,910 new cases of the virus. 76 of these deaths occurred in January, 1 in December. 710 of the new cases were in Dublin, 150 in Cork, 103 in Meath, 102 in Limerick, 86 in…

Jan 23, 2021

Mayo councilor calls for online MD meetings to be available to the public

Monthly meetings of Municipal Districts in Mayo may soon be available online for the general public to access. Castlebar councillor Ger Deere called for the development, at the monthly meeting of Castlebar Municipal District. He says that in the pandemic,…

Jan 23, 2021

Taoiseach says cutback in AstraZeneca vaccine deliveries is a 'worrying development'

The Taoiseach says AstraZeneca's announcement it's cutting back on its vaccine deliveries is a "worrying setback". The company says problems at a manufacturing site mean deliveries to the EU are being scaled back by 60 percent. It's reported the bloc will now…

Jan 23, 2021

INMO says Covid-19 infection rates are 'out of control' in hospitals

The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation' says Covid-19 infection rates are "out of control" in hospitals. The union says almost 2,000 frontline healthcare staff have caught the virus in their workplace over a two week period. It's calling for stricter…

Jan 23, 2021

Snow/ice warning issued nationwide

A Status Yellow snow and ice warning is currently in effect across Galway, Mayo, Clare, Cork, Kerry and Limerick. The warning remains in effect until 6pm this evening, before a new warning is expanded to the entire country until midday tomorrow. Met Eireann…

Jan 23, 2021

Drop in Covid patients at hospitals across the region

1,846 people are now in hospital with Covid-19 - a slight reduction on the previous 24 hours. However the numbers in ICUs continues to rise, with 215 patients currently receiving critical care. The latest figures show 116 patients with the virus at Galway…

Jan 23, 2021

€22,000 allocated for a feasibility study to deliver a CREATE centre in Headford

Galway Rural Development has allocated over €22,000 towards a feasibility study to CREATE under the 2014 - 2020 Leader Programme. Cllr Mary Hoade Chairperson of the CREATE (Centre for Education, Arts, Technology and Enterprise) group and welcomes the…

Jan 23, 2021

Belmullet GP says reserve healthcare staff should be set up to deal with areas affected by Covid-19

Reserve teams of healthcare workers should be set up and put on standby to quickly deal with areas experiencing a major surge in Covid-19. That’s according to Belmullet GP Dr Fergal Ruane, who says more numbers in the area would be useful to reinforce the…

Jan 23, 2021

Gardai warning of a text scam targeting AIB customers

Gardai are warning of a text scam that is targeting AIB customers, after an increase in 'smishing' attacks this month. The scam sees customers receiving a text message claiming to be from AIB, saying they have been locked out of their account or need to block…

Jan 23, 2021

Nearly 5,000 Mayo homes set for NBP connection before Christmas

Progress on the roll-out of the National Broadband Plan is being made across County Mayo. That’s according to Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon, who says surveying works in the surrounding townlands of Ballina and Castlebar have now been completed. Over 4,800 premises…

Jan 23, 2021

Motorists urged to take caution on roads as cold snap continues

Motorists are being urged to take care on the roads throughout the day due to snow and ice. The conditions, currently affecting much of the north and north-west, will impact the entire country later. A nationwide Status Yellow alert takes effect from 6pm and…

Jan 23, 2021

Government priority is returning special needs children to school

The Taoiseach has said the government's priority is getting children with special educational needs back to school. Micheál Martin has refused to be drawn on whether he thinks a full re-opening of schools can happen as planned on February 1st. Level five…

Jan 23, 2021

Mandatory quarantine considered for arrivals without a Covid negative test

People travelling into Ireland could be held in quarantine for at least five days if they don't present a negative Covid-19 test upon arrival. The Taoiseach has told the Irish Independent that hotels, including Citywest in Dublin, could be used as quarantine…

Jan 23, 2021

CMO says lower prevalence of Covid is beginning to show in Ireland

The Chief Medical Officer says we're starting to see the first signs of a lower prevalence of Covid-19 here. One in 98 people have tested positive in the past two weeks - down from one in 67 earlier this month. 2,371 new cases have been confirmed yesterday,…

Jan 22, 2021

52 more Covid-19 related deaths with 2,371 new cases

52 more Covid related deaths have been confirmed this evening, alongside 2,371 new cases. 757 of those infections are in County Dublin, 237 in Cork and 154 in Waterford, with the rest spread across all other counties. There are 103 new cases in Galway, 68 in…

Jan 22, 2021

Almost one thousand fines for breaches of Covid-19 regulations inside the last ten days

Almost 1,000 people have been fined for non-essential travel in the past ten days. The 100 euro penalties were introduced on Monday of last week, and apply to people who are over 5km from their homes. As of yesterday, 771 fines had been issued and another 200…

Jan 22, 2021

Snow-ice warning in effect across the region

A status yellow snow-ice has been issued for seven counties along the border and northwest. Met Eireann is warning of hail, sleet and snow across counties Mayo, Roscommon, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Donegal. The alert is in place until midday…

Jan 22, 2021

Mayo County Council bring 70 'void' homes back into use

Mayo County Council brought 70 vacant social homes back into use in 2020. Over 500,000 euro in funding had been secured for the restoration of 45 so called ‘void’ homes by the authority back in September. The fund was increased to over 773,000 euro at the end…

Jan 22, 2021

Fishermen say Brexit deal was bad for the Irish sector

The Agriculture Minister will establish a taskforce to address issues in the fisheries industry. The Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation say Ireland got a bad deal following Brexit, claiming there is no fairness from Europe. Ireland has seen its catching…

Jan 22, 2021

Mayo recipients account for the largest share of low-income agri-payments

Low-income farmers and fishermen received nearly 114 million euro in social welfare payments last year. The highest amount of people to receive payments were in Mayo. Over 5,500 farmers were paid more than 63 million euro under Farm Assist, which is capped at…

Jan 22, 2021

Belmullet GP says Covid situation remains very serious in the area and is urging people to double down on their efforts

The number of people sick and dying due to Covid-19 in the Belmullet local electoral area is "immense", according to one GP. Latest data shows the area in county Mayo has the highest 14-day incidence rate in the country for the second week in a row, with one…

Jan 22, 2021

Drop in patients with Covid-19 at Galway and Mayo University Hospitals

1,969 people with Covid-19 are receiving treatment in Irish hospitals today - an increase for the second day in a row. It's up from 1,949 from yesterday, with 132 admissions and 98 discharges across the health service in the past 24 hours. Last night there…

Jan 22, 2021

Belmullet remains the area worst affected by Covid-19

One in every 18 people in Belmullet had Covid-19 over the past fortnight according to new figures from the HSE. The North Mayo local electoral area is the worst affected by coronavirus nationally, with an infection rate of 5,556 cases per 100,000 from January…

Jan 22, 2021

Kiltullagh-Athenry road reopens following two vehicle crash

Gardaí attended the scene of a road traffic collision in Galway yesterday evening. The two vehicle collision happened at around 4.30pm in Kiltullagh. The R348 Kiltullagh to Athenry road was closed for a period of time and reopened to traffic at approximately…

Jan 22, 2021

Gardaí warn of icy conditions on roads across the region this morning

Gardaí are urging motorists to be cautious of icy conditions on untreated road surfaces across the region this morning, with black ice reported. The frost and ice will linger in many areas throughout the day. The advice is to slow down and take extra caution…

Jan 22, 2021

Health official says reduction of Covid in hospitals will be 'very slow'

Health officials say any reduction in the number of people in hospital with Covid will be "very slow". There were 1.923 patients being treated in public hospitals last night, while 211 of those people were in ICU. Professor Philip Nolan from NPHET's modelling…

Jan 22, 2021

CMO warns Covid levels too high to allow the reopening of schools

The Chief Medical Officer says it's hoped schools can reopen as soon as possible - but has warned the levels of Covid-19 are nowhere near where they need to be. A further 51 deaths linked to the virus were confirmed last night with 2,608 new cases. 132 of the…

Jan 22, 2021

EU considering tougher travel restrictions to prevent spread of Covid variants

The European Union is considering tougher travel restrictions to prevent the spread of Covid-19 variants across the bloc. The Commission has said restrictions around travel across the EU should be co-ordinated, and allow for essential workers to cross borders…

Jan 22, 2021

248 jobs created to expand walking and cycling facilities nationwide

The government has today announced the creation of up to 248 new jobs in local authorities to expand walking and cycling facilities nationwide. The Programme for Government has already committed that €1.8bn will be spent on walking and cycling over the…

Jan 21, 2021

51 deaths reported this evening of people with Covid 19 nationally

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 51 additional deaths related to Covid-19. 49 of these deaths occurred in January. As of midnight last night (Wed) of 2,608 new confirmed cases of the virus were reported in the Republic. Of…

Jan 21, 2021

Carers employed by the HSE or private companies will be in second priority group for vaccines

Family carers won't get access to the COVID vaccine at the same time as professional carers. Those employed by the HSE or private care companies will be in the second priority group of people to get vaccinated. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly says family…

Jan 21, 2021

257 reports nationally of side-effects from Covid vaccines

There have been 257 reports made to the Health Products Regulatory regarding suspected side effects of covid-19 vaccines. Approximately 94 thousand people had received the vaccine at that point. Of the reports notified to the HPRA, the most commonly reported…

Jan 21, 2021

Sligo deputy warns of indefinite lockdown unless Ireland secures more vaccines

A government TD has warned an indefinite lockdown is on the cards unless Ireland can secure more doses of vaccine. Sligo/Leitrin TD Marc MacSharry has urged his government colleagues to break with the EU purchase system and try to get more doses directly from…

Jan 21, 2021

Mayo TD calls on Education Minister to make decision on Leaving Cert soon

The vast majority of students want to be given the option to choose between a Leaving Cert exam and Calculated Grades. That's according to the Irish-Second Level Students’ Union (ISSU) who have published a report on the State Examinations 2021 and the…

Jan 21, 2021

HSE confirms that Western Care Managers prioritised for Covid 19 vaccinations

In response to recent questions by listeners to Midwest News over the rollout of Covid-19 vaccinations in the service provider Western Care Association, Midwest News contacted the HSE Community Healthcare West. Listeners expressed concerns over Management at…

Jan 21, 2021

Drugs worth over €122,000 seized in Turloughmore, Galway

Two men have been arrested and more than €122,000 worth of suspected cocaine and cannabis herb seized following a search of a house at Turloughmore, Galway. Gardai attached to the Galway Divisional Drugs Unit carried out the search at about 5.30 yesterday…

Jan 21, 2021

Velvet Cloud is a finalist in 2021 National Enterprise Awards

Mayo business, Velvet Cloud has been announced as a finalist for this year’s National Enterprise Awards. The awards, an initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices, will take place virtually on the 11th February. Velvet Cloud, located in Claremorris, was…

Jan 21, 2021

Hidden Hearing offering free hearing aid batteries and face masks

Hidden Hearing has reintroduced its free hearing aid batteries offer to help those with hearing loss through lockdown. The national hearing healthcare specialists, with offices in Castlebar, will be posting out free batteries for hearing aids to all…

Jan 21, 2021

UHG at level 3 surge capacity, with 17 Covid patients currently in intensive care

There are 133 people with Covid-19 being treated today at University Hospital Galway and 93 at Mayo University Hospital. This includes 17 patients in intensive care at the Galway hospital, and 3 at Mayo University Hospital. As reported on Midwest News…

Jan 21, 2021

Anyone called for jury service to Castlebar Courthouse on Tuesday next told not to attend

Anyone called for jury duty in Castlebar Court for Tuesday next, the 26th January, 2021 is advised not to attend. In a statement to Midwest News today, Castlebar Court Office states that " the Jury trial is not proceeding."

Jan 21, 2021

Government plan is for everyone to be offered a Covid-19 vaccine by September

The Health Minister has said his plan is for everyone to be offered a COVID vaccine by September. Minister Stephen Donnelly told the Dáil this morning that Ireland is due to get 600,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine in the first quarter of the year. EU…

Jan 21, 2021

Inland Fisheries investigates pollution incident on Westport river

A pollution incident on the Carrowbeg River in Westport last weekend was linked to an accidental discharge of detergent into the river. Inland Fisheries Ireland investigated the incident after receiving a number of calls to their hotline number on Saturday .…

Jan 21, 2021

File sent to DPP following investigation into Golfgate dinner in Clifden

Gardaí have sent a file to the DPP in relation to the investigation surrounding the Oireachtas Golf Society dinner in Clifden. 81 people, including politicians, members of the judiciary and lobbyists attended the event in County Galway in August, which broke…

Jan 21, 2021

Woman due in court following serious assault on shop worker in Sligo

A woman's due in court today in connection to a serious assault in Sligo town. Last Saturday, a shop worker was hit with a hammer after advising a woman of her failure to wear a face covering in a store. The victim was taken to hospital for non-life…

Jan 21, 2021

Galway East TD calls for mediator to be appointed to solve impasse on Special Needs Education

Talks between teacher unions and the Department on the return of special education will resume later. It's after the Department abandoned today's planned reopening, following objections from the INTO and Forsa on safety grounds. Meanwhile disability advocacy…

Jan 21, 2021

Son of Ballyhaunis woman has died following avalanche at ski resort in Swiss Alps

The son of a Ballyhaunis woman has died following an avalanche at a ski resort in the Swiss Alps. 29-year old Matt Barnaville died after the avalanche at a resort near Nendaz in the Valais region of Switzerland on Monday. Matt, who was born and raised in…

Jan 21, 2021

148 new Covid cases in Galway, 87 in Mayo as Taoiseach says level 5 restrictions will continue into next month

The Taoiseach says Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions will continue into February. Michéal Martin told his parliamentary party last night that the case numbers remain too high. It comes as a further 61 deaths and 2,488 new cases have been reported -148 new cases…

Jan 20, 2021

LISTEN: Enda Kenny says Joe Biden is "one of us" in an exclusive interview with Tommy Marren.

"Joe Biden is facing unprecedented challenges but he is also facing unprecedented opportunities. This is a President who knows the scale of his challenge and he has no time to waste." - Enda Kenny speaking to Tommy Marren live this morning. Listen to the full…

Jan 20, 2021

61 additional deaths related to Covid-19 with 2,488 new cases

There has been a further 61 Covid-19 deaths and 2,488 new cases. The number of people in hospital now stands at 1,923, while 210 people are in intensive care. Ireland's 14 day incidence rate is 1,223 cases per 100,000 people. The Chief Medical Officer says…

Jan 20, 2021

Music of a Claremorris man is featured at today's inauguration ceremony

The music of a Claremorris-born composer featured as part of the inauguration ceremony for US President-elect Joe Biden today. The Proclamation was performed by leading Irish concert violinist Patricia Treacy during the inaugural Mass, a piece of music that…

Jan 20, 2021

Joe Biden's relatives in North Mayo say it's a terrific day for the area

There’s excitement and pride across Co Mayo today as Joe Biden is set to become the 46th US President at a scaled-back ceremony in Washington this evening. Around 1 thousand people are expected to be at the inauguration in Washington DC - significantly lower…

Jan 20, 2021

Motorists urged to slow down, to prevent putting further pressure on hospital staff

While roads may be quieter during the level 5 Covid restrictions, speed limits remain the same. That's the message from Mayo County Council's road safety office and local Gardai. Gardai say that, with reduced traffic on roads, some motorists have increased…

Jan 20, 2021

Deputy Ring confident Joe Biden as President will be back in Mayo

Mayo deputy Michael Ring is confident that Joe Biden as US President will be back in Ballina, Castlebar and Westport over the term of his office. In 2016, the people of Mayo came out on to the streets in these towns, in their thousands, to meet and shake…

Jan 20, 2021

Mayor of Scranton beamed into today's monthly meeting of Ballina Municipal District

Ballina is twinned with the US city of Scranton, Pennsylvania for thirty years now, and Scranton is where incoming US President Joe Biden was raised. The Mayor of Scranton Paige Cognetti joined online, today’s monthly meeting of Ballina Municipal District to…

Jan 20, 2021

16 trainee Gardai and 12 Garda reserves appointed to northwest region

16 trainee Gardai are on their way to the northwest region of the country. Yesterday, An Garda Siochana attested 140 Gardai trainees and Garda reserves to support the policing of level 5 Covid restrictions. This includes 71 Garda members and 69 Garda…

Jan 20, 2021

Black ice reported in places in the Castlebar area this morning

Gardai in the Castlebar area are this morning advising road users of patches of black ice in places. As temperatures dropped to freezing overnight, caution on the roads in the area this morning is advised. Drivers are advised to give themselves time to clear…

Jan 20, 2021

2 metre social distancing indoors without a mask is not enough to stop the spread of Covid, according to new study

A study on Covid-19 transmission suggests keeping a 2-metre distance indoors without a mask is not enough to prevent it from spreading. Experts at the University of Cambridge and Imperial College London found it's more likely to be caught inside by two people…

Jan 20, 2021

Minister indicates that Level 5 Restrictions will not be lifted at the end of the month

The Public Expenditure Minister has indicated Level 5 restrictions will not be lifted at the end of this month. 1,897 patients were in public hospitals last night with the virus, while nationally 209 people were in intensive care. 93 deaths from Covid 19 were…

Jan 20, 2021

Proud day for Joe Biden's Mayo relatives, who will watch inauguration ceremony on TV

Today is a proud day for Joe Biden's Mayo relatives, although they will have to watch from home as he will be inaugurated as the 46th President of the USA later. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the Blewitt family from Knockmore cannot take up their invitiations…

Jan 20, 2021

Government abandons plan to reopen school for children with special needs

Children with special needs will not be returning to the classroom this week after the Government was forced to abandon the plan. The Department of Education says the decision was down to "a lack of co-operation" from teacher unions. The Irish National…

Jan 20, 2021

Met Eireann warns of wintry conditions in coming days

Temperatures as low as minus 4 degrees can be expected over the coming days, as a cold snap hits the country. A weather advisory is in place until Sunday night. Met Eireann says conditions will become increasingly wintry, with a risk of ice and falls of sleet…

Jan 20, 2021

President pays tribute to filmmaker David Shaw-Smith who passed away in Ballinrobe

President Michael D Higgins has paid tribute to David Shaw-Smith, acclaimed filmmaker and photographer, who's passed away at a nursing home in Ballinrobe following a long illness. Mr Shaw-Smith and his wife Sally produced the award-winning TV series "Hands"…

Jan 19, 2021

93 deaths from Covid-19 - highest daily figure since start of pandemic

There has been a further 93 Covid-19 deaths confirmed this evening- the highest daily figure since the start of the pandemic. It beats the previous record of 77 deaths recorded on April 20th last year. Of the 93 deaths reported today, 89 occurred this month…

Jan 19, 2021

Met Eireann issues weather advisory for the rest of the week, with conditions to get increasingly wintry

A status yellow heavy rainfall warning remains in place across Connacht until 9pm tonight, with a risk of some localised and river flooding. Up to 50 mm of rain are expected - possibly higher in mountainous areas. Gardai are advising motorists to slow down,…

Jan 19, 2021

Deal done with government for Pharmacists and GPs to rollout Covid vaccine

The new AstraZeneca vaccine that is proposed for use by GPs and pharmacists in the national rollout of the COVID vaccine is very similar to the flu vaccine and easier to administer through the usual distribution systems. That’s according to Loughrea based…

Jan 19, 2021

Castlerea & Ballyhaunis have lowest house prices in the country

House prices in Castlerea were the lowest in Ireland in the year to November. That's according to new figures from the Central Statistics Office, which show that residential property prices nationally rose slightly in the year, increasing by an average of 0.2…

Jan 19, 2021

Over €31,000 worth of cannabis seized in Co Roscommon search

A man was arrested and more than €31,000 worth of cannabis plants and herb seized, following a search of a house in Co Roscommon on Saturday. Gardai from the Roscommon / Longford Divisional Drugs Unit carried out a search of a house in Knockroghery shortly…

Jan 19, 2021

Tuam pharmacist welcomes agreement on pharmacists administering Covid vaccines

Cabinet has approved a plan that will allow GPs and pharmacists administer COVID vaccines. The 91 million euro plan will allow them to give the AstraZeneca vaccine once it's approved by the European Medicines Agency at the end of the month. Tuam based…

Jan 19, 2021

No relatives of staff at MUH received Covid 19 vaccines, according to Saolta records

In response to a question from Midwest News yesterday on whether any relatives of staff at Mayo University Hospital received Covid19 vaccinations, Saolta, the group responsible for hospitals in this region, states it is not aware of and has no record of any…

Jan 19, 2021

Drop in patients with Covid-19 at hospitals across the region

202 people are being treated in ICU this afternoon with Covid 19, the highest figure to date. However the number of people in hospital with the virus has decreased for the first time since Christmas day. 1,954 are being treated in wards. Across the region…

Jan 19, 2021

Local INTO rep says its 'inconceivable' for teachers to return to schools due to covid concerns

The INTO believes it is ‘inconceivable’ to ask teachers to return to school, given the high prevalence of Covid-19 in the community. That’s according to the INTO representative for the Mayo/Sligo region Vincent Duffy, as doubts are cast over the proposed…

Jan 19, 2021

Special Meeting of MCC next month on Report of Commission into Mother and Baby Homes

Mayo county council is to hold a special meeting to discuss the Commission Report into Mother and Baby Homes. Mayo County Council is referred to a number of times in the 3,000 page document. Independent councillor Christy Hyland proposed the special meeting,…

Jan 19, 2021

Westport's Harvest Moon Foods hit the shelves at Lidl

Lidl announced today the return of 36 products from 25 small Irish suppliers, including a local Mayo business, which were part of the retailer’s annual Kick Start Supplier Development Programme last summer. The limited edition range will be available in…

Jan 19, 2021

Pride in Mayo, 24 hours ahead of the inauguration of US President Joe Biden

There’s great pride in Knockmore, Ballina ahead of tomorrow’s inauguration of the 46th President of the USA, Joe Biden. Members of the Knockmore based, Blewitt family, in different circumstances, would certainly be in Washington tomorrow to be with their…

Jan 19, 2021

Status yellow rainfall warning remains in place across the region until 9pm tonight

Gardai across the region are advising road users to take due caution this morning as there is a lot of surface water on the roads, with some spot flooding. However, as yet, there are no reports of any roads impassable due to flooding. There is a Met…

Jan 19, 2021

Castlebar councillor calls for 'bird proof' bins at Lough Lannagh

The bins are for the birds, at Lough Lannagh in Castlebar at present and need to be made “bird proof”, according to local councillor Ger Deere. The Fine Gael councillor who is also an active member of Castlebar Tidy Towns says he is often contacted by people…

Jan 19, 2021

Cabinet approval sought for €91m Covid-19 vaccination deal

Cabinet will today consider a multi-million euro deal that would see doctors and pharmacists administer Covid-19 vaccines. It would see roughly 1.5 million people inoculated against the disease. The Health Minister will present the 91 million euro deal to his…

Jan 19, 2021

Rainfall warning remains in effect across Connacht

The Minister with responsibility for flooding says communities along the Shannon particularly need to be on alert over the next 48 hours. A Status Yellow Warning for heavy rain's in place until 9pm tonight across Connacht, the midlands and north-west. Met…

Jan 19, 2021

HPRA reports 81 cases of suspected side effects from the Pfizer vaccine

Abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue and dizziness are among the reported side effects of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. The Health Products Regulatory Authority says up to last Monday, it has been notified of 81 mild to moderate suspected cases. More than 77,000…

Jan 19, 2021

CMO calls on hospitals to ensure highest priority groups vaccinated

The Chief Medical Officer has called on hospital managers to uphold the "highest standards" in administering Covid-19 vaccines. There's been criticism of two Dublin hospitals after it emerged a small number of staff family members were given leftover doses.…

Jan 19, 2021

Slight fall in hospital patients with Covid-19

The HSE says hospitals are coping with the current levels of Covid-19, but remain under significant pressure. There are now 1,911 patients with Covid in hospital - a drop of more than 100 since yesterday - and 200 in intensive care. The HSE's Dr Vida Hamilton…

Jan 19, 2021

Sinn Féin says 'basic right' to birth certificates still denied to adoptees

Sinn Fein says a 'basic right' to birth certificates is still denied to adopted people in Ireland, and has proposed a solution. It's published leglisation that, if enacted, would give those people, including survivors of Mother and Baby Homes access to the…

Jan 18, 2021

2,121 new Covid cases and 8 additional deaths reported this evening

There has been a further 2,121 new Covid-19 cases and 8 additional deaths reported this evening. This includes 55 new cases in Mayo, 84 in Galway, 15 in Roscommon, 14 in Sligo and less than 5 in Leitrim. There are now 1,975 people in hospital with the virus…

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…

Taoiseach annoyed by crowds gathering in Cork and Dublin over the weekend

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