Galway Bay FM News Archives
Tower bridge future hangs on Fáilte Ireland decision
Date Published: 27-Jun-2011
The future of the dilapidated footbridge leading to the Fishery Tower next to Wolfe Tone Bridge is hanging on a decision of the Board of Directors of Fáilte Ireland, who are meeting in Dublin this week.
They will decide whether or not to provide funding towards the repair of the bridge, which has visibly deteriorated and is in serious risk of collapsing, according to Councillor Catherine Connolly, Chairwoman of the Natural Environment and Waterways Committee and also a member of the Civic Trust.
Because of the state of the footbridge, the iconic building has remained closed for almost three years. Cllr Connolly said she has placed this item on the agenda of every meeting of the Natural Environment and Waterways Committee since her election as chair over three years ago.
“From the Committee’s point of view and from that of the Fisheries Board who own the building, progress has been made, in that plans for the new bridge are ready and substantial funding is available from the Fisheries Board. “However, the difficulty is that matching funding is still awaited from Fáilte Ireland,” she said.
But Cllr Connolly confirmed yesterday that she and the committee had been informed that the Board of Fáilte Ireland is to meet in Dublin this week and is expected to make a decision on the matter.
“Any further delay is not only unacceptable but a matter of health and safety and I am calling for Fáilte Ireland to make a positive decision and provide the matching funding.
“In the current climate it is of vital importance that a new bridge be erected to allow the Tower to open again as it is one of the main tourist attractions in the City," she added.
Read more in today’s Connacht Sentinel
Galway Bay FM News Archives
Galway has country’s largest population of young people
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.
Galway Bay FM News Archives
Call for direct donations to city charity shops
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.
Galway Bay FM News Archives
Galway ‘Park and Ride’ could become permanent
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.