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Financial support being made available to Galway households after storm damage

Financial support is being made available for householders affected by flooding in County Galway.
Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys has confirmed the income-tested Humanitarian Assistance Scheme will be offered to those who suffered damage in the wake of Storm Debi.
Minister Humphreys says the scheme will be extended to other affected areas as required.
Mayor of Galway, Eddie Hoare, says Galway appears to be one of the worst hit areas following Storm Debi.
Roads are closed and flooded right across the city, with trees and other debris blocking roads across the county.
The entire country is now under a status yellow wind and rain warning until 3PM, as the worst of the storm has passed.
Speaking to Galway Talks, Councillor Hoare outlines the impact the weather had overnight and this morning:

UG Student’s Union to embrace Irish language for GaelSeachtain

The University of Galway will be embracing the Irish language all next week for its GaelSeachtain.
The five-day celebration of Gaeilge aims to encourage students to speak Irish, whatever their level.
Events such as a Pop-Up Gaeltacht and Tóg Amach Mé - a dating show as Gaeilge - will take place throughout the week.
Students' Union Vice President for the Irish Language, Faye Ní Dhomhnaill, says the events will challenge what people know about Irish:

Catherine Connolly takes issue with Danny Healy Rae comments on asylum seekers

Galway West Deputy Catherine Connolly, in her role as Leas-Cheann Comhairle in the Dáil, has taken issue with comments from Danny Healy Rae. 
The Kerry TD was offering his opinion on what should happen asylum seekers accused of serious crimes. 
But Deputy Connolly wasn't happy with some of his phrasing. 
 

Galway Deputy says homecare crisis leaving people in ”God’s hands”

The crisis in the homecare sector is leaving people in "God's hands" at times.
That's according to Galway East Deputy Sean Canney, who says the system isn't working and many people are only getting a fraction of the hours awarded.
He told the Dáil he'd been contacted by an 85 year old, who was told there was no replacement available when his home care worker wasn't available.
Deputy Canney argued something is fundementally wrong when an elderly man who needs help with his medicine is being left in "God's hands".
He said Sláintecare is supposed to be about keeping people in their own communities and out of long-term care - but claimed that's just not happening.
Deputy Canney also said when it comes to carers allowance, there must be an increase in the number of hours someone can work, without impacting on their benefit.

Annaghdown man honoured with National Certficicate of Bravery

An Annaghdown man has been honoured with a National Certificate of Bravery by the Ceann Comhairle at a special ceremony in Dublin.
It's part of the National Bravery Awards that are held annually to allow for State recognition of exceptional acts of Bravery.
Joseph Cahill, who lives in Ballybane in the city, was nominated for helping his neighbours escape a house fire in the early hours of January 12th this year.
Joseph says he didn't think twice about helping out when he realised what was happening that morning:

Blind Traveller student Stacey Cleary, who provided braille translation for Traveller exhibits

Annie shares her story at event on Traveller heritage and culture

Event at city museum highlights richness of Traveller heritage and culture

A special event was held at Galway City Museum today to highlight the richness of Traveller heritage and culture. 
It featured a range of informative banners, highlighting traditions including tinsmithing, traditional beady pocket dresses, and paper crafts. 
David first spoke to Kathleen Sweeney of Galway Traveller Movement about the importance of showcasing Traveller culture. 

Annaghdown man honoured with National Certificate of Bravery

An Annaghdown man has been honoured with a National Certificate of Bravery by the Ceann Comhairle at a special ceremony in Dublin.
It's part of the National Bravery Awards that are held annually to allow for State recognition of exceptional acts of Bravery.
Joseph Cahill, who lives in Ballybane in the city, was nominated for helping his neighbours escape a house fire in the early hours of January 12th this year.
Joseph says he didn't think twice about helping out when he realised what was happening that morning:

UG researcher and sexologist concerned pornography has become too accessible for children

A University of Galway clinical researcher and sexologist, Dr. Siobhan O'Higgins, is concerned that pornography has become too accessible for children. 
Her view is based on a RedC survey that shows over 70 per cent of participants believe the Government and tech companies should be doing more to protect children and young people. 
Dr. O'Higgins from the UG School of Psychology says children as young as eight are accessing porn through their smart phones: