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Students of Archbishop McHale College asked what they thought of the game

Students from Archbishop McHale College in Tuam have today entered the final stages of testing a video game designed to help children spot signs of online grooming.
The Galway students have already provided vital feedback during the first round of testing in May, leading to the current version of the game.
Part of the GroSafe programme, the project is spearheaded by Dr Christina Thorpe of TUD in collaboration with Trinity College and the ISPCC.
Our reporter Chris Benn went to Archbishop McHale College to ask the students what they thought of the game.

Dr Christina Thorpe says the aim was to create a safe environment to discuss the difficult topic

Students from Archbishop McHale College in Tuam have today entered the final stages of testing a video game designed to help children spot signs of online grooming. 
The Galway students have already provided vital feedback during the first round of testing in May, leading to the current version of the game. 
Part of the GroSafe programme, the project is spearheaded by Dr Christina Thorpe of TUD in collaboration with Trinity College and the ISPCC. 
Speaking about the game, Dr Thorpe says the aim was to create a safe environment to discuss the difficult topic. 

City Council urged to reform water quality testing during 'archaic' bathing season

The current system of water quality testing in Galway city must not be limited to the ‘archaic’ bathing season. 
That’s according to Fianna Fáil Councilor John Connolly, who is making the call in the interest of public health. 
Currently, water quality testing only occurs around the bathing season, which starts in June and runs until mid-September. 
However, City West Councillor Connolly says testing needs to occur regularly throughout the year, to assure swimmers that the water is safe. 

Call for action on spreading of porridge along city streets encouraging seagulls and pigeons

Galway City Council is being urged to take action on the spreading of porridge on various streets of the city - that's feeding and encouraging seagulls, pigeons and rodents. 
At a recent meeting, Councillor Níall McNelis was backed by his fellow councillors when he proposed firm action is taken to put an end to the long-running practice.   
The Labour Councillor suggested that should involve working alongside business groups, Gardaí and other relevant agencies. 
Councillor McNelis says he accepts it might not be the biggest issue facing the city - but it is creating problems.

Concerns long-awaited Southpark masterplan could be facing further five year delay

City East councillor Declan McDonnell is concerned the long-awaited Southpark masterplan could be delayed for another five years.  
The independent councillor claims the plan has taken a backseat to the Kingston and Renmore masterplans, but officials say all three projects are moving at the same pace.  
The masterplan, which has been stuck in limbo for over 20 years, is a blueprint for the future development for the area - such as community and sports facilities. 
Councilor McDonnell says he doesn’t understand the long running delays when the area is crying out for a plan. 

New affordable mental health service opens in Galway City this week

A new affordable mental health service opened in the Tuam Retail Centre in Galway city this week. 
 
The service, operated by MyMind, is a not-for-profit social enterprise that offers face-to-face counselling without waiting lists or referrals. 
 
Reduced rates of €30 are available to students, pensioners and anyone earning less than €25,000 annually. 
 
Free support is also offered to displaced Ukrainians, International Protection Applicants and homeowners affected by Defective Concrete Blocks. 
 
Operations Manager David Hickey says they have already seen great engagement in the Galway Clinic. 

University of Galway kicks off Annual Sustainable Development Week tomorrow

The University of Galway is kicking off its annual student-led sustainable development week tomorrow.
Both online and in-person events will be taking place, including walking tours, presentations, workshops, a climate conference, and a second-hand clothes sale
The week kicks off tomorrow and runs until Saturday August 21st.
Dr Richard Manton, Director of Sustainability gives some of the highlights over the coming week:

New Munster Avenue development reinvigorates call for city architect

A new development on Munster Avenue has reinvigorated calls for a senior city architect.
At a meeting of Galway City Council, it's been noted that the derelict building on Munster Avenue is to be converted into three residential units.
While this is being welcomed by councillors, some issues are being raised in relation to its design, with concerns it doesn't suit Galway's character.
City West Councillor Alan Curran says we need to ensure we have a consistent vision for the city

1,000 square metre pond to be added to Terryland Forest Park

Terryland Forest Park is getting ready for a brand new addition - a one thousand square metre pond.
The 'pond' project is about restoring a significant wetland element to the park, which will boost biodiversity at the amenity.
Sarah Slevin has been at the site, and took a forest wallk with Brendan Smith of Tuatha to learn more about the project

60km memorial walk for children who died at Tuam Mother and Baby Home as excavation to begin

A 60km memorial walk will take place on Sunday for the children and babies who died at the Tuam Mother and Baby Home site but have no burial record.
It comes as long awaited and extremely complex excavation works to identify remains buried there are set to begin in the coming weeks.
Relay walkers will travel 62km, carrying lanterns to highlight the 796 missing children and babies.
They'll start at Jack's Old Cottage in Islandeady near Castlebar at 7am - and are expected to arrive in Tuam around 7.30pm.
A guard of honour will be formed by the public for local campaigner and historian Catherine Corless, who'll walk a leg of the relay.
Speaking to Galway Talks, organiser Valerie Jennings said people remember the babies for the right reasons: