Explore every episode of the podcast Galway News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Bill and Hillary Clinton agree to testify in person before a congressional committee investigating Jeffrey Epstein, potentially avoiding contempt charges. Republicans push for in-person testimony due to Bills past flights on Epsteins jet, while Democrats argue the investigation shields President Trump from scrutiny. Meanwhile, new Epstein files reveal Peter Mandelsons alleged sharing of sensitive government info with Epstein, leading to misconduct claims and calls for accountability.

President Trump and Prime Minister Modi announce a new trade deal, reducing tariffs on Indian goods and lowering trade barriers. India agrees to purchase more American energy and goods, with shares of Indian firms surging on the news. The deal eases tensions between the worlds biggest democracies, potentially boosting trade and stabilizing markets.

Irish hospitals face unprecedented trolley crisis: UHG and Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe report record-breaking patient wait times, with UHG seeing a 250% increase in trolley patients compared to a decade ago, and Portiuncula Hospital experiencing a staggering 500% surge. Locals report severe strain, with nearly 100 patients waiting on trolleys recently. The urgent need for more beds and staff is highlighted to alleviate patient and frontline worker suffering.

Is parenthood really for me? - This week on Just Between Us, Jennifer Zamparelli explores the complexities of the child-free choice. Joining her are Margaret OConnor and Niamh Madden, who discuss the societal pressure to have kids and the importance of exploring ambivalence without judgment.

As winter wanes and spring approaches, we delve into the ancient Celtic festival of Imbolc, marking the first stirrings of new life. This quarter day, falling around February first, celebrated Brigid, a figure rich in customs, beliefs, and symbols. Brigid embodied themes of fertility and protection, blending old pagan traditions with later Christian ones. The deep connection between Brigid the goddess and Brigid the saint highlights the evolution of customs and the preservation of goddess traits like healing and poetry. Today, as we approach Imbolc, these ancient layers remind us of Irelands enduring cultural roots, weaving the old world seamlessly into the new.

Eunice's Irish Kitchen Secrets

In Tralee District Court, several drivers faced severe penalties for dangerous road behavior. Rao Atiq Ur Rehman was fined €500 and banned from driving for two years for a hit-and-run incident. Trevor Lawlor received three €300 fines for careless driving and hit-and-run. Eduard Berky was disqualified from driving for four years, fined €800, and received a drink-driving ban after dangerously overtaking multiple cars while intoxicated. Jan Pastuszka was sentenced to a four-month suspended sentence, multiple driving bans, and fines for no insurance, driving while disqualified, and dangerous driving. These cases underscore the serious consequences of reckless driving and the importance of road safety.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of traditional Irish music at the Joe Mooney Summer School in County Leitrim, as captured in this four-part documentary series, Scoil Samhraidh Joe Mooney. Witness the magic unfold from morning sessions to evening conversations, featuring musicians, singers, and dancers from around the globe. Celebrating its 35th year, the summer school showcases a rich mix of talent and tradition, all set against the stunning lakelands. Produced by Edel Fox for Tyrone Productions, tune in to TG4 starting February 8th at 9:30 pm for a week of authentic trad music.

28% of social homes in County Galway were refused at least once, with one house turned down six times. The council received 290 successful allocations, but refusals pose a significant challenge. Councillor Thomas Welby questioned the matching process and the time between refusals. Last year, 11 people hit the refusal limit, causing an extra workload. Council leaders are now urged to revise the system for quicker home allocations.

The Corrib Oil Galway International Rally, kicking off this weekend, marks the first major event of the year, featuring a top-notch field of drivers from various countries. The rally, which pumps around three million euros into the local economy, includes nine stages on Saturday and six on Sunday, with service at Galway Airport both days. Top contenders include tarmac champ Callum Devine and Declan Boyle, among others. Safety remains a priority, with the Road Safety Authority urging fans to follow guidelines. The ceremonial finish concludes the electrifying weekend of pure rally action.

The latest Business Post opinion poll reveals a shifting political landscape in Ireland. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael struggle with low approval ratings, while Sinn Féin leads but fails to reach previous highs. The Social Democrats, with their left-of-centre stance, are gaining traction, particularly among younger voters. This poll suggests a move away from traditional parties and towards new, establishment-free options. Sinn Féins potential to dominate is hindered by voter hesitation, despite their clear united Ireland goal. Mid-term polls only offer a snapshot, but they hint at a new era where no single party dominates.

Kia introduces the EV2, its smallest electric SUV, targeting city drivers with affordable electric car options. This compact B-segment model, measuring 4600mm long, features bold design elements and a spacious interior with a triple-screen setup. It offers two battery options, providing up to 448km of range, and will be produced in Slovakia, hitting Irish markets this spring.

Atlantic Technological University in Ireland seeks a new app to aid international students, with a budget of up to €150,000. The app, managed by senior student ambassadors, will foster a peer network for sharing tips on enrollment, daily life, and more. Key features include real-time messaging and forums for discussions on academics, student life, and personal growth. The app aims to boost enrollment conversions and retention by building a sense of belonging early on.

Councillors in Cork brace for intense debate as greenway consultation report nears completion, with over 2,000 public submissions and landowners expressing concerns over potential compulsory purchase orders.

Galway Families Lose Housing Spots Due to Social Welfare Increases Fine Gael Councillor Laurie Harney highlighted the issue at a Galway County Council meeting, revealing that families waiting up to eight years for housing were suddenly removed from the list due to increased social welfare payments. These families, who had been waiting for years, felt traumatized when they were informed that the additional income pushed them over the eligibility threshold. The problem stems from boosts to payments like the Working Family Payment, which are aimed at supporting working families but are fully counted towards housing assessments. Local leaders are now discussing ways to address this unintended fallout.

From the 1970s to the 1990s, homeownership was more accessible, with prices affordable for young people. However, todays skyrocketing house prices have made it challenging for many to buy their first home. In Ireland, a recent report shows a surge in older adult homelessness, highlighting the need for affordable housing. The loss of homeownership security could lead to tough retirement times for many.

A forty-seven-year-old man, Lee McBride, was caught driving a van filled with cocaine worth €210,000 in County Louth, Ireland. He was under pressure due to financial struggles and a broken marriage, leading him to accept a job offer promising €3,000. Despite his involvement, he was given a reduced sentence of four years, with two years suspended, after pleading guilty to possessing drugs for sale and using the van for trafficking. The van was forfeited, and the drugs were destroyed.

Anxieties about Kells Garda Station closing overnight alleviated as An Garda Síochána confirms no plans to reduce hours, ensuring continuous service for north Meath community. Local leaders swiftly address concerns, maintaining trust in rural safety.

Galways city and county councils unveil five-year Climate Action Plans, prioritizing climate-ready food systems and sustainable farming amid rising seas and wild weather. The plans emphasize lower emissions, education, and community-driven green projects, while debates rage over traffic solutions and decarbonisation zones. Galways diverse landscape and rural communities drive the urgency for adaptation and innovation, blending UN sustainability goals with local initiatives.

Fergal Anderson, co-founder of Leaf and Root Farm in Loughrea, is part of Talamh Beo, a group advocating for food security in county Galway. He discovered that only 35 out of 13,000 farms supply directly to their own villages, less than one percent. This gap concerns Fergal, especially with Galways climate action plan promoting sustainable farming. Talamh Beos Local Food Policy Framework aims to address this issue by cutting unnecessary shipping, building circular loops, and empowering small-scale links between farmers and eaters.

Ernies, a Galway city grocer, champions local produce, supporting nearby farmers. Owner Ernie Deacy Junior showcases seasonal fruits, vegetables, and specialty foods. He ponders why Ireland isnt adopting advanced greenhouse techniques for year-round local produce. This aligns with Galway City Councils Climate Action Plan, promoting sustainability through local sourcing and waste reduction.

County Clare in Ireland is grappling with the harsh realities of climate change, including intensified storms, erosion, and rising temperatures. The county councils Climate Action Plan focuses on protecting vulnerable coastlines, rebuilding dunes, and implementing flood relief projects. Agriculture is the primary source of emissions, accounting for 45%. The council has reduced its own carbon footprint by 1.19 million kilograms of CO2 and is transitioning to green energy sources. They aim to create a network of greenways and promote sustainable farming, but require more government support and streamlined planning rules.

Last month, the Canal House Youth Facility opened in Belmullet, Ireland, transforming an old building into a safe indoor space for young people. Funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development, the project addresses key needs identified in a 2018 study, including better mental health support and non-sport activities. Councilor Gerry Coyle praised the facility, highlighting its role in combating bullying and providing a space for kids to socialize safely. The effort involved Mayo County Council, the Erris Chamber of Commerce, and other local organizations, with Cathaoirleach Sean Carey calling it a true game-changer for the community.

Councillor Tom MacSharry urges Sligo Borough Municipal District to address faulty public lighting in several estates, with Director of Services Jim Molloy promising to liaise with Electric Skyline for repairs. Councillors emphasize the importance of public lighting for safety and express frustration over delays, with MacSharry noting a worsening trend in these issues.

Former Nenagh Pub Transforms into Pilates Studio: Claire Halpins new studio, located in the town center, will offer Pilates classes by appointment, respecting the areas traditional streetscape and environment.

Operation Tara yields significant drug and weapon seizures in East Donegal, as Gardaí disrupt local drug trafficking networks.

Judge in Listowel District Court rebukes father for child maintenance evasion, threatens prison if he doesnt comply. Father owes €13,400 in back payments, with last payment in summer 2024. Mother has missed work due to court sessions, adding to her stress. Judge warns father that one more no-show could result in loss of custody time.

Storm Chandra Damages Sacred Heart Church in Ireland

Councillor Ciaran Fisher urges Louth County Council to update park bylaws, banning mechanically propelled vehicles like e-bikes and scooters, to restore peace and safety at Aisling Park.

Mullingars Proposed Food Production Facility: A Boost for Local Startups and the Food Industry Mullingar, a rapidly growing town in the Midlands, is set to potentially attract a significant number of jobs with a proposed new food production facility. The Mullingar Enterprise Technology and Innovation Centre (METIC) has submitted plans for a two-storey building, which would house four food-grade units ideal for startups and incubation businesses. The project also includes a coffee dock, additional parking, and electric vehicle charging points. Currently, METICs existing building is at full capacity, housing several food-related businesses. After conducting research and feasibility studies, METIC identified a demand for ready-to-go food-grade spaces. The proposed units are designed for medium-scale production, offering flexibility for businesses like twenty-two ten Patisserie, Bell Lane Coffee, and Nanas Bakery. A final decision on the plans is expected by March eighteenth. If approved, the facility could establish Mullingar as a hub for food innovation.

Louth County Council faces criticism for not utilizing €500,000 allocated for new bus stops and shelters in 2025. Councillor Declan Power raised the issue, highlighting the need for shelters near Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital and safe bus stops in Dundalk. The delay was due to missing design guidance, but with a new supplier appointed, the funds will be used in 2026. Councillor Power welcomes the plan, emphasizing the importance of delivering promised shelters for Louth communities.

Irelands Housing Minister, James Browne, criticizes Met Éireann for relying too much on mathematical formulas and not making enough judgement calls in issuing weather warnings. He accuses them of guarding information instead of sharing it freely. Browne plans to bring in Met Éireann to improve communication and warning systems, following severe flooding from Storm Chandra. Opposition parties disagree with Brownes comments, pointing to underfunding of flood defenses and lack of a national warning system. Met Éireann is working on a second phase of flood warnings, but its not yet fully implemented. Climatologist Professor John Sweeney suggests a shift to smaller-scale alerts based on local catchments, using coordinated data from various sources to reduce damage in future storms.

Explosive claims surface in Belfast court: Michael Flatley accused of faking millionaire lifestyle, using others money; entertainment company seeks full control of Lord of the Dance tour amid legal battle.

Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, a former broadcaster and barrister turned MEP, warns about home safety during holidays, urging against posting empty-home photos on social media. New court figures reveal a surge in burglary cases, with Galway seeing twenty-nine in the first nine months of 2025. Nationwide, one thousand seven hundred seventy-one district court cases involved just one thousand one hundred eighty-seven people, and seven hundred twenty-nine circuit court cases from five hundred twenty-nine offenders. Cynthia emphasizes the need for tougher action, such as ending temporary prison releases for burglars and encouraging community watch. As holidays approach, she advises staying smart online and keeping an eye on neighbors properties to prevent burglaries.

Aoife Raftery, Irelands motorsport star, partners with Corrib Oil for a global rally push. Shell compete in US and European events, backed by the companys ten-year Galway International Rally sponsorship. Aoife, known for her drive and professionalism, recently secured third place in Tennessee, ready to make waves in the big leagues.

Three activists from Galway, including a food policy expert, a racism fighter, and an Irish language culture champion, attended a bootcamp in Dublin. They learned from top experts and are now pushing for changes in their communities, from healthy school meals to preventing hate and reviving Gaeltacht voices.

In Callan, County Kilkenny, a baby boy was seriously injured in a dog attack, prompting a full investigation and the seizure of the dogs. This incident is part of a rising trend of dog attacks across Ireland, including a mauling in Carlow, swan killings in Bray Harbour, and a severe attack in Wexford. As communities demand stricter controls, gardaí are stepping up their efforts to address the growing concern over dangerous dogs.

The euro hits a significant milestone, surpassing $1.20 for the first time since 2021, marking a 13% surge last year. This strength is attributed to U.S. trade disputes and Fed criticism, as well as joint U.S.-Japanese efforts to curb yen weakness. European companies face challenges due to increased export costs, but equity investors remain optimistic. The ECB monitors the euros rapid ascent, which may alleviate import price pressures but is unlikely to meet inflation targets. Despite the dollars dominance in global reserves, the euros growth is driven by security and growth initiatives, positioning it to reshape trade flows in the coming months.

A convicted hit-and-run driver, Ruadhan Tracey, seeks to lift his 20-year driving ban after serving half his sentence for killing a 14-year-old boy, Conor Hickey, in 2011. Tracey, with a history of drug addiction and 54 prior convictions, argues hes turned his life around since 2018. However, Conors family and prosecutors oppose his license restoration, viewing the ban as the only remaining punishment. The judge postponed the decision to review the law, leaving the outcome uncertain.

Mayo County Council announces significant road closures for the North Connacht one ten kilovolt project, starting in Q1 2023. A fifty-nine kilometer underground electricity cable will be laid from Ballina to Ballaghaderreen, generating half a gigawatt of power. Public consultations will precede closures, with a North Connacht Community Benefit Fund offering €1.53 million for local groups. Applications open now, with info sessions on February 24th and 25th.

Residents near Lough Funshinagh in Roscommon are demanding urgent action on a three-kilometer underground pipe to prevent endless flooding. The lake, once a natural turlough, has overflowed repeatedly in the past decade, causing damage to homes and farmland. Despite a preferred pipe route identified in April 2025, the planning application wont be filed until mid-2026 due to environmental rules and delays. The Flood Crisis Committee urges politicians to take leadership and resolve the issue, ending the decade-long flood threat.

Councillor Michael Clarke from Sligo criticizes local TDs for not advocating for the reopening of the Collooney to Claremorris rail line. Despite being ministers of state, Frank Feighan and Marian Harkin have been silent on the issue. Clarke accuses them of following orders from Taoiseach Micheal Martins dictatorship and being influenced by a Greenway lobby. However, Clarke reveals progress is being made, with talks underway between Iarnrod Eireann, the Department of Transport, and the Northern and Western Regional Assembly. He expects construction to start in 15-18 months, with trains running in 3-4 years. Clarke also supports Greenways but wants this one rerouted to boost local businesses and is working on routes from Collooney to Enniskillen and Belfast Airport to Knock Airport.

38-year-old Dundalk woman pleads guilty to hit-and-run, leaving cyclist with serious injuries. She admitted to careless driving, failing to stop, and attempting to cover up the incident. The cyclist faces a long recovery, and the woman is awaiting sentencing after psychological and medical reports.

Gerry Daly, a revered former Louth State Solicitor, passed away on January 22nd. Known for his formidable advocacy and kind heart, he served as State Solicitor for over two decades, leaving a significant mark on the legal world in Louth. Colleagues and friends remember him as insightful, fearless, tough, and humorous, with a blend of decency and kindness. He is survived by his family and a wide circle of loved ones.

In a shocking turn of events, Democratic Congresswoman Ilhan Omar was attacked with an unidentified liquid during a town hall in Minneapolis. Despite the incident, Omar remained resolute, calling for resilience against adversity. The attack occurred after she advocated for abolishing ICE and criticized the Trump administrations policies towards Somalia, where tensions have been rising due to recent strikes and aid cuts.

Sage Advocacy Offers Support for Institutional Abuse Survivors

Discover Galways Biodiversity: A New Bilingual Book Launches - A charming new bilingual book, Siúlóidí Dúlra Ghaillimh S’Againne or Our Galway Nature Walks, highlights five gentle strolls showcasing the areas rich biodiversity. Written by Joe and Patrick McGinley, this is the eighth installment in their series, featuring stunning photos and supporting the Galway Hospice and other charities. The book launch event, led by CEO Mary Nash and Máire Mairéad Ní Loideáin, was attended by Galways Mayor, Cllr Mike Cubbard. The book promises to entertain and draw readers closer to nature, with all proceeds benefiting the Galway Hospice and other charities.

Galway Council Acts on Bridge Street Safety

New Housing Estate Approved for Mountbellew

Galways Low-Income Families Face Housing Crisis: Councillors Urge Government to Adjust Thresholds Councillor Laurie Harney and Eileen Mannion highlight the plight of low-income families in Galway, who risk losing their spots on the housing list due to increased social welfare payments. Despite their pleas, the council has no power to change the qualifying numbers, and the government shows no signs of adjusting the thresholds to match reality.