Galway Bay fm - News

Local TD demands Finance Minister reduce VAT rate for hospitality sector

The return of the full VAT rate for the hospitality sector is threatening the lifeblood of communities across the country, right down to the smallest village. 
That's according to Deputy Noel Grealish, who has told the Dáil the return of the 13.5 percent rate is causing hundreds of closures. 
He outlined the pressures facing the hospitality sector to the Finance Minister - including high energy and food costs, and the recent 12 percent increase to minimum wage. 
Minister Michael McGrath said they regret any closures and do not wish to see businesses struggle, but the context of the VAT reduction is important. 
He argued the 9 percent VAT rate was a temporary measure during difficult periods, such as COVID and the impact from the war in Ukraine, and was extended several times. 

Galway Volunteer Centre to host major recruitment fair

Galway city based sock business wins Google national business award

Galway farm selected to take part in national profitability and environmental programme

Dáil hears medical card dental scheme "falling apart" in Galway

The Dáil has heard that the medical card dental scheme is "falling apart" in Galway. 
The issue has been raised repeatedly in recent years, as card holders struggle to find a dentist with availability. 
The core problem is a lack of dentists participating in the scheme - which means those that are, are often completely full. 
Government has taken some measures, including increased fees, to tackle the situation, with limited results. 
Deputy Eamon O' Cuiv says at a time of unprecedented wealth, it's unacceptable that people are left to suffer. 

Junior Transport Minister to be quizzed on South Galway bus routes

The Junior Transport Minister is to be quizzed on what's being described as the unacceptable level of public transport in South Galway.
Local councillors have been advocating for improved services in areas including Loughrea, Gort, Kinvara, Maree, Kilcolgan and Ballinderreen.
They have been raising the issue of a lack of evening services, and over-capacity issues on many services.
Minister Jack Chambers is due to visit Scoil Mhuire in Clarinbridge and Colga FC in Kilcolgan this afternoon.
During his visit, Councillor Martina Kinnane will ask the Minister to engage directly with the NTA to seek funding for additional services.

Junior Transport Minister to be quizzed on South Galway bus routes

The Junior Transport Minister is to be quizzed on what's being described as the unacceptable level of public transport in South Galway
Local councillors have been advocating for improved services in areas including Loughrea, Gort, Kinvara, Maree, Kilcolgan and Ballinderreen
They have been raising the issue of a lack of evening services, and over-capacity issues on many services.
Minister Jack Chambers is due to visit Scoil Mhuire in Clarinbridge and Colga FC in Kilcolgan this afternoon
During his visit, Councillor Martina Kinnane will ask the Minister to engage directly with the NTA to seek funding for additional services:

Michael Burke predicts "bright" future for Chanelle as Loughrea firm sold to equity firm

The founder of Chanelle Pharma in Loughrea says the future is "bright" for the company, following its sale to a UK private equity firm. 
The sale was announced this morning, and although terms were not disclosed, its understood to be worth several hundred million. 
Chanelle was founded in 1985 and has since grown to Ireland's largest native manufacturer of generic pharmaceuticals, employing over 700 people. 
Michael Burke spoke to David Nevin after the announcement - about deciding to sell, stepping back, and the future of the company. 

Education Minister refuses to be drawn on prospect of secondary school on Inishbofin

Shortened time period tomorrow for Galway's Status Yellow snow and ice warning