By Colm Croffy

As the festive season approaches, we all start looking for the perfect gift for our loved ones. This Christmas, why not make it special by supporting local businesses with Ballinasloe Town Vouchers? Whether you’re shopping for family, friends, or colleagues, these vouchers are a thoughtful way to give the gift of choice while helping our community thrive. The best part? They’re free to buy and free to use!

Accepted by a wide range of local shops, cafes, and services, Ballinasloe Town Vouchers make it easy to support the businesses that make our town so unique. And for a bit of online convenience, check out www.ShopBallinasloe.ie - our very own "mini Amazon" for Ballinasloe! With just a few clicks, you can browse and purchase from local stores, all from the comfort of home. From festive gifts to everyday essentials, ShopBallinasloe.ie has you covered.

For businesses: Did you know you can give your employees up to two small benefits each year, tax-free, up to €1,000? This Christmas, consider gifting Ballinasloe Town Vouchers as a bonus for your team. It’s a great way to show appreciation while supporting the local economy.

Whether you’re buying for a loved one or rewarding your employees, choose Ballinasloe Town Vouchers and ShopBallinasloe.ie. You’ll not only find great gifts but also help our town sparkle this Christmas.
Vouchers can be bought directly in Salmons, Dolans, Ballinasloe Enterprise Hub, Utah and online at www.shopballinasloe.ie
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Merry Christmas and happy local shopping!

Often, the words “marketing agency” typically conjure up images of a glossy office in the heart of a large city.
Eva O’Grady, of Kilgarve, Creagh, is changing all that. Having worked and travelled abroad, Eva has returned to her hometown to set up Milseog Media in her native west of Ireland.

“My business is a marketing agency which specialises in social media management, content creation, and website design,” she explains.

Despite her local roots, Eva has travelled far and wide, having spent time in America.
“Because I was so lucky to travel around America for a year and have just returned home, I have a lot of global experience both personally and professionally. I can offer engaging, cutting-edge strategies which I’ve seen used in places like LA and New York,” she says.

Offering a multitude of services along with a hands-on approach, the small firm is committed to paying close attention to the businesses it represents.

“When going with a larger corporation, you may be offered a one-size-fits-all plan. With Milseog Media, each business receives a tailored plan which fits its needs, with weekly check-ins to analyse progress,” notes Eva.

Although Eva has had entrepreneurial ambitions for some time, she only set up her business in September.
“I have always dreamed of owning my own business since I was very young. I come from a family of business owners who have always inspired and motivated me. My dad is Sean Finn, and my mum is Joyce O’Grady Finn; they own Ecocars, an electric car company, as well as a commercial vehicle company called Finn Commercials.”

Despite her international experience, Eva feels most at home locally, praising the people and community spirit.
“Ballinasloe is full of business owners of all backgrounds and ages. Having lived away, I missed Irish people so much, but especially the familiar faces around town. There is a very prominent community spirit here,” she says.
There are, Eva explains, surprising benefits to starting a business in the rural west.

“Locals are known for their loyalty to homegrown businesses. You also have lower running costs for your business, and there’s less competition. On the other hand, it can be challenging if you have a limited customer base or find it hard to network in your area,” explains Eva.

For those interested in setting up local businesses, Eva has a wealth of knowledge that she’s eager to share.
“The Enterprise Hub in Ballinasloe has really helped me so far. Lyn, especially, definitely gave me the advice and push I needed to take the plunge and encouraged me to join the Pulse Club, which is great for networking.”
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To get in touch contact Eva on 087 0935655 or log onto www.milseogmedia.com. Instagram: @milseogmedia

It has been an exciting year at Ballinasloe Cancer Support Centre, with Ballinasloe Credit Union’s community funding support for two years and the return of Reiki. There was an increase in new people attending therapies and an overall rise in therapies provided, marking a positive year for the centre, located in Cullen’s Yard off Main Street.
“This year was always going to be a challenge, but we built on last year’s success, and for a voluntarily run centre, this was a great achievement,” said Liam Connaire, Chairperson.

A couple of new members have joined the backroom team at the centre in the past few months. Alice Kennelly joined in August; she is a holistic therapist based in Tullamore, Co. Offaly.

“I have been practising a variety of complementary therapies for almost 25 years. Reiki has proved to be the most popular. It was an honour to be asked to bring Reiki to Ballinasloe Cancer Support Centre. I feel the gentle energy of a Reiki treatment fits so well with the ethos of the centre in that it can also help to support people emotionally as they navigate their way through their illness,” states Alice.

As a support centre, family members are not forgotten, and they too can benefit from a treatment. “Such care and support are almost tangible as you walk through the centre’s doors, and I’m privileged now to have a little part to play in this special centre,” continues Alice.

“It’s a privilege to have Alice. She has proved to be very popular and has fitted in well with the centre,” commented Chairperson Liam.

Inna Kukuruza has joined the team as the new coordinator, and the centre is looking forward to her contribution. She recently moved to the area from Galway City.

The centre will be sending out their Christmas appeal letters in early December to businesses in Ballinasloe, Athlone, Loughrea, and the surrounding areas. “I know it has been a difficult year for businesses, but all the money contributed goes to keeping the therapies going and the office open,” affirms Liam.

The centre is open every week from Tuesday to Friday, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. It will close for Christmas from December 20 to January 7. For more information, contact 090 9649767 or 085 2311180.
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Website: www.ballinasloecancersupport.com
Instagram: @ballinasloecancersupport
Facebook: BCSC Centre
Email: [email protected]

The filling station “XL Ballinasloe” has officially opened in Brackernagh, thanks to the introduction of new proprietors Parish and Michelle Busawah.

Previously trading as Circle K, the Busawahs took over the business in July of this year, after planning and regulatory issues delayed the reopening a little.

“Following a full revamp of the site and installation of a deli, we opened in October”, explained Michelle.

The couple currently have seven staff, all members of the locality, holding both full-time and part-time positions. With the deli open from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm, the new forecourt shop offers all the usual services, with some modern installations such as sustainable fuel.

“We offer petrol, diesel sustainability HVO at the fuel pumps, and our shop has an alcohol license for beer, spirits and wine. Groceries, lotto tickets, coffee, pastries and tobacco products are also available”, she states.

Opening hours are from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm Monday to Friday and 7:00 am to 11:00 pm Saturday and Sunday, catering for most early morning commuters who need a quick fuel fill for vehicles and maybe some caffeine before heading to their place of work.

Being family owned and run, it is important to the Busawah family to maintain the old-fashioned hospitality that is so associated with local convenience stores.

“Our aim is to very much bring back the local feel in our store, community based and focused, to support local people and organisations, greeting customers with a smile and preferably by their name. The old days were better, when customers were appreciated and valued and that's what we aim to achieve, we appreciate every single person that comes through our doors and customer satisfaction is paramount to our sustainable business approach”, notes Michelle.

With a passion for supporting local, Michelle and Parish are already considering sponsoring sport teams in the community, along with other projects.
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“We will soon be involved with Local GAA clubs and other organisations to give back into the community.”
Christmas deals are due to be announced very soon, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the shop’s Facebook page, XL- Emo Fuel Station Ballinasloe, where a fuel offer is even set to be announced alongside the shop’s fuel partner, EMO.

The Zaiqa Indian Restaurant on 36 Society Street, was recently awarded Connaught’s Best Asian Restaurant at the Asian Restaurant Awards.

The restaurant opens from 4pm-11pm every day, specialising in Indian and Thai cuisine. Proprietor Sohail entered the competition, as he was confident in his team’s ability to succeed.

“We entered the National Competition because we're incredibly proud of our team's dedication to providing high-quality, authentic cuisine. Winning the award was a huge honour and a testament to our hard work and commitment to culinary excellence. It was an incredible feeling to be recognized by industry experts.”

Having worked in various roles in the hospitality industry over a number of years, undertaking the management of his own restaurant was something that Sohail was well-equipped for, and along with his team of six staff, they have adapted to the market remarkably well, already winning awards despite only being in business since May 2022.

“While Zaiqa is a special project, I've been fortunate to work in various roles within the hospitality industry. This experience has given me a deep understanding of the business, from front-of-house service to kitchen management. Running a restaurant has been a rewarding journey. One of the most valuable lessons I've learned is the importance of teamwork. Our team's dedication and passion are the driving force behind Zaiqa's success”, he notes.

Unusually, the restaurant operates under a BYO (Bring your Own) model, whereby they do not sell alcohol on the premises and allow customers to bring their own with no corkage fee.

As the only restaurant like it in town, Sohail believes this business model is the way forward.

“We believe that BYOB restaurants offer a fantastic dining experience. They allow customers to personalise their meals with their favourite beverages, making it a more affordable and enjoyable experience.”

With the high demand for Indian food in Ballinasloe, Sohail is considering developments such as new menu items and increased facilities. He’s also offering some great deals over the Christmas holiday, such as Sunday lunch specials and Christmas gift vouchers.

“This Christmas, we’re excited to offer a special Sunday lunch menu from 1pm-3pm, €20 per head. It will be a festive menu that celebrates the flavours of the season with a unique Zaiqa twist. We’ll have exclusive deals for families and groups, including discounts on larger orders and special tasting menus.”

Sohail also noted that while the town may be an unlikely location for setting up a business for some, small towns and rural Ireland in general do offer their own set of benefits in regard to entrepreneurship.
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“While running a business in the west of Ireland presents challenges like seasonal fluctuations, it also offers unique benefits. We have access to fresh, local ingredients and a strong sense of community. The stunning natural beauty of the region also attracts visitors from all over the world”, explains Sohail.

Ballinasloe Area Community Development (BACD) recently hosted its AGM in the newly inaugurated Enterprise Hub on Society Street, reflecting on a year of significant achievements and outlining plans for the future.

BACD Chairman Seamus Duffy highlighted the charity organisation’s continued collaboration with state bodies, third-level institutions, and community groups. He emphasised the ongoing promotion of the town through initiatives like the Life magazine, social media campaigns, video content, and participation in media, state, and investment events, as well as seminars and tradeshows.

A key highlight of the year was BACD’s 25th-anniversary celebrations, culminating in the opening of our second enterprise centre, the new Ballinasloe Enterprise Hub on Society Street, and the quick uptake of office spaces by eager clients shows its immediate value as a state-of-the-art town centre location. This milestone also provided an opportunity to reflect on 25 years of progress and express gratitude to the 61+ current and former board members, stakeholders, public representatives, project volunteers, and community members who have supported the organisation’s success.

“Finally, I want to thank the current Voluntary Board of Directors, Lyn and Martina in the office, our funders and business subscribers, and all the volunteers who have helped across all our projects,” Chairman Seamus Duffy concluded.

BACD has also been making strides on its long-term 10-year plan for the town, with notable progress in tourism development, including a taster weekend and securing funding through the Just Transition Fund for a new tourism website. Other successful projects over the past year include the ongoing Pulse Club networking meetings, involvement in the Community Hubs initiative, the adoption of the Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) model, the launch of Glow Radio, a pop-up Christmas community station, and the People of the Year Awards, which honoured 19 international athletes and over 40 community groups and individuals.

Manager Lyn Donnelly presented a comprehensive report on the operational aspects of the organisation, detailing various initiatives, funding applications, and programmes. Assistant Manager Martina Flanagan provided updates on marketing and website development, as well as the integration of platforms for community and company client use, including Connected Hubs and the Pulse Club.

The growth of Ballinasloe Life magazine was also celebrated, with its increased page count (from 40 to 76), expanded distribution, new digital availability, growing social media presence, and the efforts of its dedicated volunteer team.

Auditor James Coyle delivered an in-depth review of BACD’s finances, highlighting a significant increase in assets due to the new Enterprise Hub. The organisation recorded an income of €398,169 and expenditure of €397,654, resulting in a modest but welcome profit, particularly considering the ongoing loan repayments for the Hub.

In governance updates, no new director nominations were received. Kevin Broderick stepped down after seven years of service, with Chairman Duffy expressing gratitude for his commitment.

​Eoghan Kenny and Brian King resigned on rotation and were re-elected. The confirmed board for the next year comprises:

• Chairperson: Seamus Duffy
• Vice Chairperson: Brian King
• Directors: Anita Killeen, Dan Dowling, Eoghan Kenny, Joe Lyons, John McKenna, Marina Downey, Michael Connolly, Claire Gibbons, Pearse Keller, and Sean Kelly.

Cllr. Alan Harney has called for the establishment of a taskforce to address antisocial behaviour in Ballinasloe.
Cllr. Harney stated: "Since my election to Galway County Council, I have been very aware of issues with antisocial behaviour in a number of areas across town."

"In my view, we need to take a harder stance against the perpetrators to make it clear that such actions will not be tolerated in our town. Everyone deserves the right to live peacefully and safely in their community."

"However, I have been contacted by many people in recent months for whom this is, sadly, just not the case at present. We need to take action and deliver real solutions for our community."

"A new taskforce would assist in putting together a coordinated response to such antisocial behaviour in our community, which, in my view, has been lacking to date. This should involve An Garda Síochána, officials from Galway County Council, representatives of the community, and public representatives."

"We also need to look at other options to make our communities safer. The rollout of community CCTV in our town centre is something I have been advocating for, and I believe it will assist the Gardaí in their work."

Cllr. Harney concluded: "By working together, we can deliver real change and an improved quality of life for people across our community. I look forward to engaging with my colleagues in Galway County Council and the Gardaí on this proposal."

Cllr. Alan Harney has recently been elected to serve on the Community, Irish Language, Gaeltacht, Tourism and Integration Strategic Policy Committee.

“I hope that I can add something to our policy over the next couple of years through my membership”, he states. With his focus on community development and hardworking involvement with a number of local not for profit groups prior to election, Cllr. Harney is very interested in the re-purposing of the old library.
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“At our first meeting we had a presentation from Liz Keane, the new county librarian. I raised some issues that we have here in Ballinasloe, particularly around opening of the new library to have it used by more groups. I also raised the issue of the old library, which has been closed for a number of years being used for book storage. However, this building is really quite unsuitable due to the condition of the structure itself. This space can be renovated and opened up because I think it has a huge potential to provide meeting space, and space for activities for groups in our community, so I’ll be working on that over the next couple of months.”, explained the Councillor.

​By Colm Croffy

There were the usual swings and roundabouts at the MDC annual Budgetary meeting.

What was of course not up for any discussion was the rationale behind the Ballinasloe MDC's areas increase of €263,559 compared to Tuam’s nearly €500,000 and Loughrea’s €1 million?

This estimate is not just for town; it is for the MDC area of some 26,000 citizens, towns of Mountbellew, Ballygar and all the villages from Lawrencetown to Ballyforan, which is a lot of roads, paving and lighting.

The €200,000 notice of motion money that some five out of the six councillors can use each year, thanks in part to the increase in the property tax, is not included in the €10.1 million allocation to the MDC.

Biggest percentage gains at the October meeting were a whopping from €6,000 to €187,531 for Economic Development and Promotion at 2155%, but not as much as Loughrea who will be spending €223,000 on this area!
At 90%, the contribution to other bodies is up from €9,600 to €18,260.

Gladly there might be some relief from the Pampas Grassland effects of No Mow May extending right through till September for residents of estates, as a 20% increase in the Estates Maintenance from €36,928 to €44,352.

Heritage Services has grown by 82% from €16,000 to €29,100, but seemingly this does not include any expense on the Aughrim Centre as that is being covered by Just Transition Funding.

Bring Centres are up 34% and Parks, Pitches and Open Spaces are also up 35% from €76,950 to €103,620.
Strangely the budget sections that had zero change is the cost of the parking meters in all pay zones, even though the officials refuse to give a breakdown on which streets or machines are showing revenue at €25,000.

Maddeningly, when all, including the Tidy Towns Judges, have pointed out the deficiencies in street cleaning, not another new cent could be found at €297,790 for the year ahead.

Maintenance of Burial Grounds is also maintained at last year’s rate of €103,620.

The overall roads programme, which in all its entirety gobbles up some 60% of the €10.1 million, saw a 3% increase which had most of the area Councillors up in arms.

With near unanimity, all were aghast that with building and input prices rising faster than regular inflation, this will allow much more reduced repair and essential maintenance to roads, paths and hedges for the coming year.

Cllr. Declan Geraghty stated he was “taken aback that we only have an increase of €131,000, a deplorable situation given the cost of materials has gone through the roof and will make it very difficult for the Area Engineers and outdoor staff to achieve their program.”
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The other significant decrease in expenditure coming in at about 14% was Recycling down from €15,000 to €12,857, possibly reflecting the Government’s new cash for trash recycling scheme for cans and bottles.

Cllr. Evelyn Parsons welcomed the completion of the Preliminary Design for the long-awaited transformation of the closed Poolboy Landfill site, into a vibrant new amenity and recreational park. The design, which was presented to the M.D.C. lately marks a significant milestone in the community’s journey toward reclaiming this space for public use after years of hard work, collaboration, and activism.

“I am delighted to welcome the preliminary design for the transformation of the old Poolboy landfill site into a vibrant new recreational ecopark for the people of town and wider area. This is an early and a monumental step forward for the Ballinasloe area in a long journey towards transforming a major environmental blight on our landscape into a leisure orientated, eco-friendly destination for all of us to enjoy.” stated Cllr. Evelyn Parsons Independent.

The park’s preliminary design envisions a range of features, including accessible playgrounds for children, walking trails, picnic areas, sensory spaces, biodiversity initiatives, cycling tracks, and outdoor classrooms and an amphitheatre. The project was developed with substantial community input to ensure it reflects the needs and desires of local families, children, and seniors, with a focus on accessibility and inclusion.

Cllr. Parsons acknowledged the work of the council and collaboration with environmental experts and consultants who confirmed that sustainability and safety will remain paramount in the project with continued monitoring and management.

“This park will not only provide a space for relaxation and recreation and attract tourism and economic development, but it will also serve as a symbol of our community’s ability to turn challenges into opportunities. What was once a landfill is now reimagined as a green space that will enrich our lives for generations to come. This speaks to the ongoing efforts to unlock the potential of other disused and derelict facilities in Ballinasloe, which are ripe for transformation,” stated Cllr. Evelyn Parsons.

The journey to this point has been a long one, starting with the closure of the landfill in 2005 following a legal campaign led by community leaders, activists and council members in the 1990s and beyond.

“A special note of gratitude goes to the brave committed individuals, some no longer with us, who fought for the community and to bring an end to the landfill and to ensure the delivery of an amenity for the people of Ballinasloe,” Cllr. Parsons said. “Their efforts have made this project possible, and we remember and honour the efforts of those who stood for this and deeply value ongoing engagement as we take this important first step along a new journey of an ecopark development.”
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Cllr. Parsons further stated “There is still much work to do and many phases ahead. I am confident that, with the community’s ongoing input, we will see this vision for the eco park fully realized. Everyone who has participated in the process so far, from providing feedback during public consultations to attending meetings are shaping the future of our town, and it’s looking brighter, greener, and more vibrant than ever before.”