Galway Bay fm - News

Council criticised over lack of progress on "promised" footpath and cycle lane between Ardrahan and Labane

The County Council is taking criticism over a lack of progress on a promised footpath and cycle lane between Ardrahan and Labane. 
At a meeting of Gort/Kinvara councillors, Councillor PJ Murphy raised ongoing construction works on a social housing development in Ardrahan. 
He said he'd supported this on the basis of a promise that pedestrian and cycle lanes would be developed to Labane, alongside the ten homes at Caisláin Raithlín. 
But Fine Gael Councillor Murphy says this hasn't happened - and explains why it's so essential. 

Increased bus shelters and bus stops in Ballinasloe area despite lack of buses

Plans are being advanced for new bus shelters in Mountbellew, Moylough and at the Marina in Ballinasloe.
Tender processes have begun, and there are also plans to create new bus stops in Glenamaddy, Ahascragh and Ballygar.  
Ballinasloe Councillors are welcoming the news, however they are calling on the NTA to address the issue of diminishing bus routes in the area. 
Councilor Alan Harney says while infrastructure is important, connectivity in rural areas needs to be improved: 

Calls for establishment of multidisciplinary board for future of St Brigids Hospital

There are calls for a multidisciplinary board to be established so that the future of St Brigid's Hospital can be discussed.
The board would be made up of representatives from the HSE, Government and local councillors.
Councillor Alan Harney says the derelict site is an eye soar that’s getting worse by the day.
He says the team could look at other hospitals across the country to plan for the site in Ballinasloe

CHI Chair Pearse O' Shiel on new social development in Tuam

CHI Chairperson, Pearse O'Shiel explains how the collaboration between the organisations came about and what their future plans are:

New social-rental scheme officially launched in Tuam

Co-operative Housing Ireland have unveiled eight new homes at Plás an Chruicéid in Tuam.
The houses, funded by the Credit Union Approved Housing Body Fund, were previously mixed-use retail properties before being repurposed for social housing. 
The scheme encourages co-ops working together to provide social rented housing for those who need it most. 
Minister of State Neale Richmond spoke to Chris Benn about the future of the scheme and how it aids the Council. 

Councillor "regrets" voting for city council move to Crown Square and doubles down on claim of €30m overun

A city councillor says he "regrets" voting for the controversial planned city council move to Crown Square in Mervue. 
Councillor Alan Cheevers also says he firmly stands by his prediction of a cost over-run of up to €30,. 
When a deal was struck two years ago to relocate City Hall, it was costed at €45m. 
But significant works still have to be completed - including a full fitout - leading many to question what the final bill will be. 
Councillor Cheevers has been telling David Nevin he's convinced the fitout cost will be absolutely enormous. 

Ballinasloe preparing for arrival of 64 Ukrainian families

Preparations are underway as 64 Ukrainian families are expected to move into modular homes in Ballinasloe by Mid-August.  
A pedestrian crossing has been introduced beside the modular homes under emergency legislation, to allow safe access for the population to the local amenities. 
Local community groups will be encouraged to help the new arrivals integrate into the community.
Councillor Evelyn Parsons explains how increased stress on the local education and health services will be dealt with: 

NTA branded 'disingenuous' over ongoing silence on Knockdoe and Carnmore Park and Ride

A local councillor has labelled the NTA disingenuous for their alleged silence on proposals for Park and Ride in Knockdoe and Carnmore.
The NTA made a presentation to Athenry/Oranmore councillors around two years ago about buying land for the  project.
A follow up letter was sent by Galway County Council to check on this proposal to the NTA, but a meeting heard this week they've still not responded.
Fine Gael Councillor David Collins says they must be updated as public representatives:

Claire Kerrane describes Tori Towey as incredibly strong as she reunites with family in Roscommon

Galway/Roscommon TD Claire Kerrane has described Tori Towey as an incredibly strong woman, as the 28-year old is reunited with her family.
She was arrested in the UAE for attempted suicide and drinking alcohol, following alleged gender-based violence.
Tori arrived into Dublin Airport yesterday with her mum, Caroline after the Government intervened.
Claire Kerrane is one of the people Tori thanked after arriving back in Ireland, and Deputy Kerrane says she is relieved Tori is home:

Planning go ahead for 40-bed Community Nursing Unit in Clifden

Galway County Council has granted planning permission for the long awaited 40-bed Community Nursing Unit in Clifden. 
Since its initial announcement about a decade ago, the project has been downgraded from a 50-bed unit to a 40-bed unit. 
The €34 million budget will also allow the existing St Anne’s to be repurposed for admin areas, resident support areas, and a day hospital. 
Local Fine Gael Councillor Eileen Mannion has welcomed the development, saying she believes it will finally give stability and security to healthcare in the region.