Galway Bay fm - News

The Government's Active Transport Scheme is not providing for rural communities across Galway. 
That’s according to Cathaoirleach of the County Albert Dolan following a presentation at a meeting of the Athenry/Oranmore area. 
The Fianna Fáil councillor is concerned a €2.5 million fund allocated to Galway won’t be spent - because too many projects are in the planning stage. 
Councilor Dolan says the scheme has become less effective in recent years and it's not serving rural communities. 

The European Commission wants authentic food and drinks producers here to seek protected EU quality marks known as Geographical Indications.
Ireland has only 13 traditional food and drink products covered by various EU quality mark programmes. 
These include Connemara Hill Lamb, the Waterford Blaa, Sneem Black Pudding and Irish Grass Fed Beef.
Helen Kearns, head of Communications at the EC's Representation in Ireland, says getting a GI can be hugely beneficial.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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. 

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. 

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:

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