Galway Bay FM News Archives
LOUGHREA MAN TO BE SENTENCED ON THURSDAY FOR VIOLENT SEXUAL ASSAULT
Date Published: 25-Jun-2012
A nurse who was violently sexually assaulted by Loughrea man Brian Maher has told that a court she has become a “ghost” of her former self.
The woman was giving evidence in the Central Criminal Court at the sentence hearing of 25 year old Brian Maher of Clostoken, Loughrea.
Brian Maher had pleaded guilty to aggravated sexual assault and assault causing harm to the woman, in Bohermore, Galway City, on October 16, 2010.
In her victim impact statement, the woman – who is now aged 38 – said it was “impossible to completely articulate” the impact Maher’s actions have had on her and that she has suffered “physically and emotionally”.
She said that he had disregarded her “liberty, well-being, life and human rights” and she was now a “ghost” of her former self as a result of what she described as a “savage” assault.
She said that any sentence handed down “will never return me to the happy independent” woman she once was.
Defence counsel Brendan Grehan said his client is deeply apologetic for the hurt and distress he caused to his victim and read out an apology on his behalf to the court.
Brian Maher is the son of Fine Gael cllr Michael Mogie Maher and Mr Grehan referenced this in court saying the accused, who has no previous convictions, comes from a family “which has some legacy of public service and community activism”.
He said the accused is willing to stay away from the victim and said he has undertaken a range of courses during his time in custody including a computer and addiction course.
Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy remanded him in custody until sentencing this Thursday.
Date Published: 07-May-2013
Galway has a population of young people which is more than twice the national average.
According to information gathered by the Central Statistics Office, Galway’s population of 20 to 24 year olds is more than twice the national average.
The number of 25-34 year olds in Galway is also more than the norm nationally, with the two main colleges thought to be the main reason.
However immigration in Galway is much higher than in other areas at 19.4 percent, compared to the national average of 12 percent.
Date Published: 07-May-2013
A city councillor is encouraging people to donate goods directly to charity shops.
It follows allegations of thefts from clothes banks in Galway and across the country in recent months.
However, cameras are in place at some clothes banks and surveillance is carried out by local authorities.
Speaking on Galway Talks, Councillor Neil McNeilis said the problem of theft from clothes banks is widespread.
Date Published: 07-May-2013
A park ‘n’ ride scheme from Carnmore into Galway city could become a permanent service if there is public demand.
That’s according to the Chief Executive of Galway Chamber of Commerce, Michael Coyle.
The pilot scheme will begin at 7.20 next Monday morning, May 13th.
Motorists will be able to park cars at the airport carpark in Carnmore and avail of a bus transfer to Forster Street in the city.
Buses will depart every 20 minutes at peak times and every 30 minutes at offpeak times throughout the day, at a cost of 2 euro per journey.
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