All at Scoil an Chroí Naofa believe strongly in promoting student well-being to enable each child to reach their full potential in all aspects of their educational life.
They have a highly committed and dedicated staff who are constantly looking at new ways to enhance education for all children. As part of this, they are very grateful to have had the opportunity to take part in the Erasmus+ Programme. This is a European Union initiative which funds schools across the EU to learn and share best practices when it comes to education.
Over the previous few months, nine staff members have travelled to Spain, Italy, Croatia, Denmark, and Finland to learn about new approaches for improving the way in which children learn. The school decided to focus on the areas of inclusion, well-being, and trauma-informed teaching as the core focus, and chose courses that supported this theme. During their time in these countries, the staff learned about educational strategies and approaches that have been adopted by host countries to improve well-being for children.
The staff members also educated fellow participants from a host of European countries in effective methodologies that are directly implemented and used in the classroom to promote a positive school climate.
As a direct result of funding from the EU, through the Erasmus+ Programme, they are proud to have set up one of Co. Galway’s first school-based nurture rooms. It is a welcoming, nurturing environment that focuses on mindfulness and well-being for the pupils, promoting a sense of self-worth and improving self-esteem for the school children. This has been led and developed by Ms A Gilligan, who has overseen the development and resourcing of this project within the school.
The Erasmus+ participants have returned from their travels full of enthusiasm, increased knowledge, and with effective practices to further enhance educational practices within the school. They have made it their mission to share the ideas learned with the whole staff – ideas which are implemented in the day-to-day life of Scoil an Chroí Naofa.
The Board of Management and staff are very grateful to the enthusiastic participants who gave of their time and shared their experiences to benefit the school community. They all look forward to further opportunities as a result of the Erasmus+ Programme.

Since opening in March 2024, the Family & Community Resource Centre (FCRC), Ballinasloe Social Services, has had a busy few months. Coming up to their first year in operation, the centre is grateful to the community of Ballinasloe and the wider area for their “amazing” support.

“The uptake and support for the service from families, individuals, services, and agencies have been pivotal,” says Una Daly, Family Support Coordinator at the FCRC.

Funded by Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, the centre is located within the community-based model of family support, providing universal and targeted support to children, families, individuals, and the community.

They operate on a drop-in, accessible, open-door model that is open to everyone in the community. They provide one-to-one appointments for parents, guardians, and individuals, providing information, advice, advocacy, and signposting, and are also developing a range of personal development groups and opportunities.

Working with a needs-led approach, groups and supports are developed from the needs and wishes identified by the community. “For example, each Monday morning from 10.30am to 12pm during term time, there is a coffee morning/support group for parents of children with additional needs,” Una notes.

In February, the centre is hosting a three-day Managing Challenging Behaviours Programme for parents and guardians. This will be facilitated by Joe Coughlan, Social Care Manager, Tusla. It will take place from 10am to 2pm on 12th, 13th, and 19th February. The programme aims to support parents and guardians to keep themselves and their children safe and help their children to develop new ways of coping. “This is a fantastic parenting support that identifies that child-parent relationships should be built on trust and respect,” Una said. “And the acknowledgement that respect is only possible when the child feels safe, there is mutual trust, and the possibility of hope, which in turn leads to change.”

The centre will also be rolling out the Rainbows Programme in March. Rainbows provides group support for children and young people (7 to 17 years) experiencing significant change following bereavement, parental separation, and divorce.
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A peer support group, it can provide a safe space for meaningful listening support for children and young people at these difficult times in their lives.

For more information about Rainbows Ireland, go to www.rainbowsireland.ie or email [email protected].
Tuam Citizens Information Service also provides a monthly outreach clinic in the resource centre on the following dates:

• 19th February
  
• 19th March
  
• 23rd April
  

This free service provides information on:

• Social welfare
  
• Housing
  
• Health
  
• Employment rights
  
• Immigration
  
• Education
  
• Many other issues
  

It is by appointment only. To make an appointment, call Tuam CIC on (0818) 077 740 on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.
For information on all services and supports and to book a space, contact the centre on 085 170 2530, email [email protected], or drop into the Social Services building through the red door (not the main entrance).

​Martin Daly, our newest Fianna Fáil TD, is the eldest of seven children. His mother was from India, and his father from County Galway. His mother came to Ireland to study medicine at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), where she met her future husband.

Both were dedicated doctors who set up a medical practice in Ballygar, which continues to serve the community to this day. His wife, Dr Myriam Mangan, and Dr Clodagh Murray are partners in the practice.

Sports of all kinds have been a big part of his life, growing up in a community where it plays a central role, leading to a keen interest in sports medicine.

He was fortunate to work with the Roscommon GAA senior inter-county panel, practising at an elite level. “Working with these athletes has been a rewarding experience, allowing me to combine my professional expertise with my passion for the sport,” states Martin.

Dr Martin took on a national high-profile role, serving as the President of the Irish Medical Organisation in 2008/2009. It allowed him to advocate for the medical profession, engaging with key healthcare issues and policy development that continue to shape our healthcare system today.

He is clear on his motivation: “I was increasingly frustrated by the lack of government representation for our constituency and the feeling that our region was being left behind. Sitting on the sidelines was no longer an option for me; I felt a strong sense of duty to stand up and advocate for the people of Roscommon-Galway. My motivation comes from a desire to be a strong, effective voice at the national level, ensuring that our communities receive the attention and resources they deserve to thrive,” he explains.

While canvassing, it became abundantly clear to him that Ballinasloe is in urgent need of investment and job creation. Many residents expressed a strong desire to see industries such as life sciences set up, bringing sustainable employment opportunities.

There is a clear appetite for initiatives that will attract businesses and provide secure, high-quality jobs for the local population.

“A significant concern raised was the future of St Brigid’s Psychiatric Hospital, with many questioning what will become of the facility and calling for it to be repurposed in a way that benefits the community. Residents are keen to see a practical and meaningful use for this historic site that aligns with the town’s evolving needs,” states Dr Martin.

Traffic safety was another key issue, particularly at Creagh Junction, where improvements are urgently needed to protect both pedestrians and motorists. Additionally, concerns were voiced regarding the general speed of traffic through the town and surrounding estates, with calls for enhanced traffic-calming measures and infrastructure upgrades to improve road safety.

He believes local people are also focused on the successful amalgamation of Garbally College and Ard Scoil Mhuire into Clonfert College, with a strong emphasis on ensuring that the new school maintains its DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) status, which provides essential supports and resources for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Another critical issue raised on Martin’s canvass is the delivery of the promised new school building for Scoil an Chroí Naofa. The community has been eagerly awaiting progress on this project, and ensuring its timely completion will provide much-needed modern facilities for students and staff. It is essential to accommodate the town’s growing population and provide a high-quality learning environment, he believes.

Residents highlighted the need for further investment and the approved development of projects within Portiuncula Hospital. Ensuring that the hospital receives adequate funding and resources to enhance its capacity and services is a top priority for the community. The hospital is a vital healthcare facility for the region, and improvements will play a significant role in meeting the growing healthcare demands of the local population.

In terms of priorities for the early part of his term, he is fully committed to working hard on constituency matters. To ensure accessibility and direct engagement with the community, he is establishing constituency offices in both Ballinasloe and Roscommon to provide a dedicated resource for people to voice their concerns and seek assistance.

In summary, Martin’s immediate priorities for Ballinasloe will focus on: healthcare improvements, job creation, infrastructure upgrades, and support for agriculture.

He is also strongly of the view that the town itself continues to advocate for its needs and actively pursue available funding opportunities. “I will work with community groups, local organisations, and public bodies where necessary to help access funding, secure investment, and drive initiatives forward. Ballinasloe has great potential, and by working together, combining local efforts with national representation, we can ensure the town thrives and secures the resources it needs for long-term success,” states Martin.

Ballinasloe, Martin believes, has tremendous potential for growth, particularly in sectors such as life sciences, technology, and local enterprise. With the right investment, the town can position itself as a hub for innovation and economic development.

“With strong collaboration between local authorities, businesses, and community groups, Ballinasloe can become a thriving town that offers opportunities for all,” he encourages.

Housing challenges, with demand outpacing supply, are making it difficult for families and individuals to secure affordable accommodation. Along with the other priorities mentioned, this highlights the need for immediate action and long-term strategic planning to ensure the town’s future prosperity.

Success for Ballinasloe in five years will mean a town that has seen significant progress in key areas such as economic growth, healthcare, infrastructure, and community development.

“My focus will be on ensuring that Ballinasloe becomes a place where people can live, work, and thrive – including:
➤ A strong local economy with increased job opportunities
➤ Improved healthcare services
➤ Enhanced infrastructure and road safety measures
➤ Expanded housing options to meet demand
➤ Strengthened community facilities and public amenities,” he pledges.

Throughout the campaign, he enjoyed many cups of tea and some wonderful meals in the fantastic cafés and restaurants across the constituency. But it’s difficult to pick just one favourite.

He has a diverse taste in music, spanning from the classics of the 60s and 70s right through to more modern rock. Bands like Arctic Monkeys, The Strokes, and Kings of Leon are often on his playlist, which will sustain him on the trips to and from Leinster House.

He has extended his deepest gratitude to his incredible team of canvassers who worked tirelessly throughout the campaign.
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“A special thanks to my wife, my family, my brother, sisters, and extended family who provided unwavering support and encouragement every step of the way. I would also like to thank my election agent Barry Devereux, director of elections P Burke, and Media & PR manager Kayala Costello. Finally, I want to express my sincere appreciation to the people of Roscommon-Galway for their incredible support and trust. I am honoured to have this opportunity."

The Clontuskert Charity Concert Committee hosted a successful fundraising concert titled “A Winter’s Evening Concert of Music and Song” at the Kiltormer GAA Complex before Christmas.

This packed-out event held on the 1st of December was made possible with the support of Kiltormer GAA Complex and its Committee. Colm Croffy, the MC for the evening, welcomed the talented artists to the stage. Pre-concert entertainment by Iain Lynch and the Frank Downey traditional group set the tone for the night. The Conquerors, the house band, performed their own set and generously backed other artists.

The stellar lineup included Marc Roberts, P.J. Murrihy, Colin Kenny, Mick Mulhern, Emma Donohue, Katie Costello, Ciara McKeigue, and the Tully Brothers Traditional Group. Each performance was met with enthusiastic applause, and the atmosphere was electric. John Finnerty captured memorable moments with his photography, preserving the joyous spirit of the concert.

Santa Claus made a special appearance, adding a magical touch. Surprises throughout the night kept the audience engaged. After the concert, attendees enjoyed tea and refreshments, bringing the evening to a pleasant close.
Proceeds of €3,635 will be divided between the East Galway and Midlands Cancer Support Centre in Ballinasloe and St. Therese’s Children’s Ward at Portiuncula Hospital.

Plans are underway for the next “Winter’s Evening Concert of Music and Song,” scheduled for Sunday, 30th November 2025.
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“All our Committee thank all who gave of their time, gave us spot prizes and who turned up, and we look forward to another successful event and hope to see everyone there,” stated Katie Costelloe, Chair.

Plans are progressing for upgrades to a much-used Creagh walking loop, Cllr Alan Harney has reported.

“We have a very popular walk from Creagh Church down through Glentaun Bog, Atticorra, and back up the Creagh Road to the Church, which is used by walkers at all times of the year.”

“However, the section from the junction at Atticorra back up to Parkmore on the Creagh Road is incredibly dangerous for walkers, as there is no footpath and people have to walk on the road.”

There are issues at the junction at Atticorra for road users exiting onto the Creagh Road. Since his election to Galway County Council, he has been working on plans to upgrade the walking loop and make it safer for all road users.
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“I am very pleased that we have been able to submit an application for funding under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Fund to upgrade the loop and ensure it is safe for people to get out and enjoy this great amenity in our community,” states Alan.
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A successful funding application will upgrade the facilities on the walking loop, including increased signage, and will t safer for pedestrians and would upgrade the junction."

 

A property evaluation report on the St. Brigid’s Hospital Campus, commissioned last year by the HSE, is due to be completed shortly. As a member of the HSE Regional Health Forum, Cllr Harney has been raising the need for action on St. Brigid’s Hospital at every possible opportunity with the HSE.“The time for talking is over, and we now need to see urgent action on the Campus. The property evaluation report for the campus is now complete in draft form, and I have asked the HSE to make it available to me at the earliest possible opportunity,” explains Alan.

He’s adamant that the report does not lead to a fire sale. “I have been very clear since the start of my campaign that we need an independent development board. I have written to the Taoiseach and have been engaging with him and his team, as well as the HSE, on how we can progress my idea based on the successful interagency redevelopment of Grangegorman in Dublin.”
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He also is pushing for a clean-up of the buildings next to the road so that the entry to the site reflects its importance and potential.

Parsons Warns on Ambulance DemandLocal residents are in danger of having calls for an ambulance go unanswered unless immediate action is taken to increase capacity amid surging demand, according to Cllr Evelyn Parsons, who told a meeting of the Regional Health Forum West recently that County Galway had been identified as facing the largest growth in calls for ambulance services in the coming years.
With an ageing and growing population, significant investment was needed to expand the county’s ambulance service to enhance the number of vehicles that can be deployed, argued the Councillor.
“We need to deliver critical infrastructure now, to prepare for the future. The stark reality is that, if we don’t, a time may come when you won’t be able to answer all the calls,” warned Councillor Parsons.
Chief Ambulance Officer for the West, JJ McGowan, confirmed that demand for emergency services is expected to “grow substantially” in the coming years. They have plans to fill gaps with an expansion of services on the ground and additional ambulances and resources in some of their bases.
Community paramedics visit patients at their home and administer treatment there, while pathfinder paramedics are dispatched with occupational therapists and physiotherapists who go out and assess the patient with a view to keeping them at home.
In addition, there is a clinical hub in their call centres that can give patients alternative pathways to follow for help instead of sending out an ambulance for them.
Councillor Parsons said she believed a response beyond ‘filling the gaps’ was required and it needed to be planned immediately so that funding could be secured.
“Community safety and health cannot be put on hold, and I see no definite timeline or commitment to increasing”

This information evening run by Ballinasloe Lions Club takes place at 7:30pm on 27th February, Gullanes Hotel. 

Details below

Customers visiting Daybreak in Ahascragh may have noticed some changes over recent years. The Concannons have been serving the village since 1955, when Colin’s grandparents, Joe and Rita, set up the shop from their house. Their son, Padraic, and his wife, Catherina, took over the running of the shop in 1987 and continued to grow the business. Then, in 2015, the opportunity arose to take over the filling station next door. “We have invested in a redesigned store with a more modern and up-to-date feel to it,” says Colin Concannon, owner of the store. “Our aim was to give our loyal customers an improved service and a store they can be proud of.” In addition to improvements to the forecourt, the store added a new Munch and Co deli, an off-licence, two coffee machines with iced coffee, and a new ice cream concept called Lickety.

Covid saw changes to their operation. “We offered free home delivery for anyone who wasn’t able to make it out,” Colin says. During this time, illness to Padraic also meant that Colin and his wife, Marcileide, took over the day-to-day running of the business. Marcileide took over the role of deli manager and, “with her team, has transformed the business, with many people coming from all over to try her secret recipe battered fish on Fridays.” Colin credits his “very loyal and hard-working staff” for the success of the store. “Some have been working with us for many years, from the old shop. All of them live locally. This has been very important to us down through the years. We couldn’t do it without them.”

​The village of Ahascragh has gone through a lot of positive changes over the last few years, with a new distillery, a new café, a new restaurant, and local homes being built. Colin notes, “We are very lucky, and it’s very important to keep this going.” Colin adds that, “A sense of community is very important to us; without that, we wouldn’t be in business. We like to try [to] give back to the local community groups by sponsoring events and local clubs.” They also continue to do home deliveries for those who need it. More developments are planned. “We are a bit tight for parking, so we would like to look into developing our forecourt even more,” and Colin is also considering requests for a seating area. They are also planning a big seventieth birthday celebration this summer. Daybreak’s opening hours are: Monday to Saturday, 7am to 9pm, and Sunday and bank holidays, 8am to 8pm.

Ballinasloe witnessed a significant gathering as stakeholders from across the community came together in Gullane’s Hotel for the inaugural Peer-to-Peer Forum under the Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) initiative last December. Representatives from a wide range of organisations attended, including An Garda Síochána, Ballinasloe Area Community Development, Ballinasloe Credit Union, Ballinasloe Lions Club, Ballinasloe Social Services, Ballinasloe Tidy Towns, Ballinasloe Training for Employment, Ballinasloe Sports Hub (Galway Sports Partnership), Brothers of Charity, Canal House, Family Support Services, Galway Rural Development, Galway Traveller Movement, GRETB, HSE (Older Persons Network), Involve Youth Service, Galway County Council Integration Team, Parent Child+, St. Vincent de Paul, The Junction (Youth Work Ireland), Tuath Housing, Fáilte Isteach, and TÚS.

Each stakeholder brought a unique perspective, reinforcing the principle at the heart of the ABCD approach: “Start with what’s strong, not what’s wrong.” “Attending the Peer-to-Peer Forum was an eye-opener,” said Orla McCaffrey from Canal House. “I had the chance to connect with organisations I wasn’t even aware of before the meeting. These new connections have already sparked ideas for collaboration that could greatly benefit our service users. Working together like this has the potential to create real, positive change in Ballinasloe.”

“The Peer-to-Peer Forum was a fantastic platform to meet other groups and organisations dedicated to making a difference in Ballinasloe,” said Karyn Gavin of Galway Rural Development. “By coming together and sharing our resources and knowledge, we can create stronger partnerships that not only enhance our individual efforts but also have a lasting impact on the entire community.” Brian King, Vice Chair of BACD CLG, reflected on the significance of the day: “The ABCD approach is about tapping into our collective strengths and working together for a brighter future. Whether you’re a local group, business, or individual passionate about Ballinasloe, there’s a place for you in this exciting initiative.” For many, the day’s most valuable takeaway was the focus on better communication and collaboration. Attendees agreed on the need to establish stronger connections between groups through enhanced communication platforms and a comprehensive community directory. This directory will serve as a valuable resource for both the groups involved and the wider community.

The forum also marked the start of ongoing efforts to support active citizenship. Four local community animators—Shane McNeill, Niall Clarke, Stephen Kerr, and Lyn Donnelly—are currently undergoing training in the ABCD methodology. Once completed, they will lead community conversations and initiatives, ensuring the momentum from the forum continues. A follow-up Peer-to-Peer Forum is scheduled for Thursday, 6th February, in Gullane’s Hotel. The success of the December meeting is a testament to the commitment and enthusiasm of all those who attended. There is a growing sense of optimism about what can be achieved by working together. For those interested in joining this transformative initiative, BACD can be reached at 090 9646516 or via email at [email protected]