Galway Bay fm - News

Mayor of Galway slams extra €10m exclusively for Dublin Gardaí

Plans progressing for public park and swim area in Ballinasloe

Plans are progressing for a new accessible public park and swim area along the River Suck in Ballinasloe. 
The idea is the brainchild of Councillor Evelyn Parsons, who envisions it being located along the river behind Main Street. 
She's now been informed that Galway County Council will seek funding for the measure through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme. 
Councillor Parsons say while the project is still in the very early stages, it's a hugely positive development. 

Funding secured for climate change music event in Galway next year

Almost €40,000 has been secured for a music initiative in Galway which aims to explore the local impacts of climate change.
Science and music will join forces for the 'Galway Bay is Calling' project which will feature during the International Cello Festival next May.
Music for Galway, Galway Atlantaquaria and ATU are teaming up on the initiative, with funding provided by the Creative Ireland Climate Action Spark Fund.
Anna Lardi, CEO of Music for Galway, says musicians will work with scientists to spark community interest in climate change:

Galway public react to the death of Sinead O’Connor

Galway woman among a handful of Irish people to receive rare Benemeranti medal from Pope

Just 1% of short term lets in Galway City have planning permission

Only 6 short term lets have been granted permission for Galway city, even though there are over 600 advertised online.
Labour City Councillor, Niall Mc Nelis, says the issue of short term letting affects the whole balance of housing in Galway City in the middle of a housing crisis.
While they recognise the importance of short term lets during the tourist season, he says those running without permission are 'a real smack in the face' to those businesses that are paying their commercial rates.
He says the City Council have been failed by government as they don't have the proper resources or legislation to tackle the problem.

Fine Gael Ard Fheis to be held in Galway for first time ever

County councillors see red over snubbing by Irish Water

County Councillors are less than impressed at being snubbed and ignored by Uisce Eireann, formerly known as Irish Water.
Despite the recent name change, at a meeting this week councillors were in agreement that their means of doing business have not changed.
There's a dedicated resource to handle queries from elected representatives - but it's claimed calls continue to go unanswered and emails go unreturned.
Several councillors claimed that when important queries are eventually answered, the responses are often 'incoherent' or lacklustre.
Councillor Mary Hoade says it's not good enough and public reps deserve a reliable service to provide answers to their constituents.

Site in Ballinasloe being assessed for modular homes for Ukrainian refugees

A site in Ballinasloe is being assessed to host the first modular homes in Galway for Ukrainian refugees. 
A meeting of local councillors last evening heard that the OPW is currently examining a site at Poolboy. 
Details were thin on the ground, but ultimately Galway County Council will play no role in the plans led by central Government.
It was acknowledged that in the longer term, the site could be used for social and affordable housing. 
Councillor Tim Broderick says if these modular homes are built, it's vital that increased local services are provided. 

Still no plan for Galway Airport site decade after purchase

There's still no sign of a masterplan for the future use of the Galway Airport site, almost ten years after it was purchased by Galway City and County Councils.
The matter has been raised repeatedly by councillors from both local authorities, who are immensely frustrated that such a valuable resource is sitting idle.
At County Hall this week, Councillor Jim Cuddy was advised that work is ongoing and it's hoped the Masterplan for the Carnmore site will be advanced by September.
Councillor Cuddy says it's an excellent site that was bought for a knockdown price - but argues it's crazy that it's just been largely sitting there since.
He believes it's important that whatever happens, the airstrip at the former airport is maintained for future use.