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Featured In the Media Love

World’s Largest Galway Hooker donated back to Galway City and County

July 22, 2024

Vessel to be used as floating arts space and for sail training

Bádóirí an Chladaigh, the classic boat-building and training group, has announced the official donation and transfer of the Naomh Bairbre, the world’s largest Galway hooker, back to Galway County. The handover ceremony took place in the Claddagh Basin on Saturday, July 20, 2024, attended by the new city mayor, Fianna Fáil councillor Peter Keane, alongside notable community figures (pictured).

The Naomh Bairbre’s new role as a sail training vessel and a floating arts space promises to enrich Galway’s maritime and cultural heritage, offering a unique platform for both seasoned sailors and budding artists.

When Connemara carpenter Steve Mulkerrins declared his intention to build and sail a Galway hooker from Chicago to his homeland, it seemed an ambitious dream. Remarkably, not only did he accomplish this feat, constructing the largest Galway hooker ever in his shed with the help of many supporters, but he also sailed it through the Great Lakes and across the Atlantic in 2006. Today, he donated this magnificent vessel to serve as a sail training platform and a floating arts space in Galway City.

“At 47 feet (14 meters) long and with a 47-foot-high mast, the Naomh Bairbre is a striking presence in the Claddagh Basin,” said Peter Connolly of Bádóirí an Chladaigh. “We are delighted with Steve’s gesture, and we plan to ensure it becomes a municipal floating arts space for artists and musicians who can use it when it is not out sailing. Given Galway’s relative lack of artistic venues, this opportunity may prove invaluable for young artists.”

Mulkerrins, originally from Maumeen, Co Galway, expressed his desire for the Naomh Bairbre to remain in Galway, emphasising its heritage as a Galway hooker. “I want it to stay now in Galway, as it is called a Galway hooker for a reason, and it will be a great boat for sailing training and day trips in the bay, and for artists in the winter.”

He embarked on this project while living and working in Chicago for 12 years, and in Boston before that. With the support of his wife Agnes and their three children, he imported wood from Wicklow in two 12-meter containers and invested a significant amount of his own money into the construction. The project saw contributions from various individuals, including balladeer John Flaherty.

The inspiration behind the ambitious journey was to honour the memory of his late father, Colm. The 3,200 km navigation from Chicago to the Hudson River marked the beginning of a meticulously planned voyage home. Naomh Bairbre traversed the Great Lakes, ventured to Newfoundland, returned south to New York, and finally made the Atlantic crossing in 2006. The journey culminated after 28 days at sea, with a triumphant arrival past the Aran Islands and into the quay at Maumeen, accompanied by his shipmates Pat and Tom Joyce, Coley Newell, and Barney Flaherty.

Reflecting on the journey with Lorna Siggins in the Irish Independent, Mr Mulkerrins remarked, “Hard to believe it was 18 years ago that we sailed into Connemara. It is a great sea boat, and I know Peter Connolly and his crew will look after it well.”

Stay connected at www.facebook.com/galwayhookers.

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Summer arrives in the west- Dela Restaurant welcomes New Head Chef

June 7, 2024

Embracing sustainability and culinary innovation, Dela launches their take on Summer

Dela, the award-winning restaurant located in the heart of Galway’s Westend on Dominick Street, has announced the appointment of Shannon Di Cola Schiano as their new Head Chef.

Shannon brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Dela, with a culinary style that masterfully blends Modern Irish, Nordic, and Asian influences. Describing herself as a “Classically Trained Modernist,” Shannon has honed her skills in both Ireland and Australia, with notable tenures at Turtle and Hare Dining, Currevagh House, and Craobh. Her innovative approach and passion for sustainable practices align perfectly with Dela’s commitment to zero-waste and farm-to-table dining.

“We have been admirers of Shannon’s work for quite some time, and we are excited to finally collaborate with her,” said the team at Dela. “Her ‘root to fruit’ philosophy and dedication to sustainability resonate deeply with our own values, and we are eager to see the impact she will make on our evening menu.”

Dela regulars will have already noticed that there are new specials that have become firm favourites already at brunch. Now, her attention turns to Dela’s evening menu, promising an elevated dining experience that champions locally sourced produce from their own farm.

The evening Dela starter highlights include a Mushroom & Nori Doughnut, Radish Kkakduga Pickles Roast Garlic, Barr Rua, or there is seared Asparagus, Smoked White Bean Puree, Pistachio & Leek Oil, Flatbread and for those who love to embrace the sea, the House Cured Sea Trout Tartare Confit Yolk, Local Seaweed and Crackling. Then it’s onto Pork Belly Wellington, Spring Onion Mash, Greens, Cider & Mustard Cream or an Aubergine Schnitzel, House Kraut, Chard, Greens, Rosti, Mushroom Jus and or course there is the classic fish of the day, flank steaks or this Clam & Prawn Linguine Sea Vegetables with Local Seaweed.

To finish you will be torn between a Farm Matcha Pannacotta & Sponge, Clooniffe Blackcurrants, Puffed Grains or the Strawberry & Rhubarb Whipped Mascarpone, Strawberry & Rhubarb Cheong, Elderflower and then there is the Celeriac & White Chocolate Cremeaux, Blackberry Chocolate. All of this is caveated with the fact that all sides and veg supporting these dishes are season and energy levels permitting the vast majority of veg and salads used on this menu are grown on their Farm and Coffee Roastery just out the road in Clooniffe, Moycullen (Just 8km from Galway city)

Shannon’s ethos is to “champion all that nature supplies and to ensure that it has been used sustainably and to its full capacity.” Her focus on fermentation and preserving, along with our investment in commercial composting equipment, will help us take significant strides towards our goal of eliminating kitchen food waste and completing the farm-restaurant-farm cycle.

“Her expertise in sustainable cooking and zero-waste practices will undoubtedly enhance our offerings and solidify Dela’s position as a pioneer in Galway’s dining scene.”

Get to Dela to experience their new summer menu and taste firsthand the dishes they have been sharing through their social channels.

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A Gentle Life: Celebrating 10 Years of The Tweed Project

May 27, 2024

As The Tweed Project celebrates its 10th anniversary, the 2024 collection stands as a testament to a decade of commitment to simplicity and the artistry of natural fabrics. From the west of Ireland, the brand unveils a collection resonating with the ethos of gentleness and mindful consumption.

The Tweed Project presents ‘A Gentle Life,’ a collection that pays homage to the brand’s origins of simplicity and the thoughtful use of indigenous materials such as tweed, linen, and Aran knits. Showcasing a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary design, the collection features blush pink linen from Emblem Weavers in Wexford and cream Tweed from Molly & Sons.

Each piece in the collection tells a story of craftsmanship and intentionality, reflecting the brand’s unwavering commitment to a slow and gentle approach to fashion. Drawing inspiration from the past while embracing the present, ‘A Gentle Life’ invites wearers to indulge in pieces that seamlessly blend individuality while echoing the spirit of times past.

Set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean in Co. Clare, the collection not only captivates with its aesthetic but also seeks to forge a connection between today’s wearer and the bohemian souls who once inhabited the rugged landscapes of Clare a century ago. Through a tapestry of Donegal woven Prairie blankets, the collection channels the essence of a simpler time, where the pursuit of aestheticism and freedom reigned supreme.

This milestone collection is a testament to the enduring partnership between The Tweed Project’s founders, Triona Lillis and Aoibheann MacNamara. Reflecting on the journey, “Our principles remain unchanged; our love for what we do continues to drive us forward. We are grateful for every piece we have had the privilege to create—and every client we have.”

Celebrating a decade of creativity and collaboration, ‘A Gentle Life’ also marks a poignant collaboration with Rachel Poirer from Teac Damsa and Filmmaker Tadhg O’Sullivan, underscoring the brand’s commitment to simplicity in all its forms—emotionally, environmentally, and spiritually.

Prices for pieces start at €120. For more information and to explore the collection, visit www.thetweedproject.com.

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Blas na Bealtaine – May festival of food kicks off in Galway

April 29, 2024

A celebration of food and experience in Galway

Blas Na Gaillimhe – (A Taste of Galway) food network & festival that celebrates Galway’s unique year-round hospitality is kickstarting a month of deliciousness in May. Blas na Bealtaine will celebrate people and food from across the globe but right here in the west. Through festivals, events, and collaborations, A Taste of Galway celebrates the diversity, creativity, and passion that define Galway’s food culture.

The festival has a diverse lineup of workshops, talks, and events designed to introduce and ignite people’s passion for what is here on our doorstep. From traditional feasts to innovative wine explorations, there is something for every palate and every curiosity.

Enjoy the flavours of Brazil but in Salthill, one of the highlights of the festival is the Feijoada weekend at Chef Laura Rosso. Prepare to indulge in the rich flavours of Brazil with a slow-cooked pork and black beans stew, served with all the traditional accompaniments. Meanwhile, in Galway’s westend on Dominick Street, Aniar celebrates Blas na Bealtaine & Oysters from the west coast of Ireland with a pop-up oyster bar. Expect an array of Irish oysters, delicately accompanied by wild, foraged, and preserved garnishes. As a result of the abundant plankton the west coast provides ideal oyster growing conditions. Daróg Wine Bar are focusing on Fíon (wine in Irish), where you will go on an exploration into the world of wines.

A celebration of food and experience in Galway Blas Na Gaillimhe – (A Taste of Galway) food network & festival that celebrates Galway’s unique year-round hospitality is kickstarting a month of deliciousness in May. Blas na Bealtaine will celebrate people and food from across the globe but right here in the west. The festival has a diverse lineup of workshops, talks, and events designed to introduce and ignite people’s passion for what is here on our doorstep. For all information visit https://atasteofgalway.com/events/ . Pictured at the official launch in The Kings Head were Mirko Testa and Gabi Juillet, both from IL Vicolo restaurant. Blas na Bealtaine – May festival of food kicks off in Galway. Photo:Andrew Downes, xposure

For those eager to roll up their sleeves and get hands-on, Jess Murphy and Pasta Tony are joining forces to teach the art of pasta making, accompanied by Italian salads and fine wines in Massimo Bar. And for the curious souls craving a deeper understanding of Irish cuisine, Galway Food Tours and Fable Tours offer immersive experiences that delve into the heart of Ireland’s culinary heritage.  There will be a taste of Galway cheese & wine at Sheridans Cheesemongers, where you will be tasting through some of Galway’s finest cheeses including Galway Sinan, Killeen goat cheese and Kylmora alpine style cheese. Each of the Galway cheeses will be carefully paired with a selection of European wines, Irish cider and accompaniments.

Join POTA Café, in Baile na hAbhann to go on a culinary and cultural journey from Connemara through Loch Lurgan (the ancient name for Galway Bay) to the Aran Islands and back. Loch Lurgan, an evening of Food and Folklore will have you feasting on a 7-course tasting menu interspersed with the history and mythology of Loch Lurgan. Then it is onto Trieste Café & Wine Bar for a celebration of Bubbles, Rosé & Light Reds. Tasting all the ideal Wines for the perfect summer evening. Think Cava, French Rosé, Vinho Verde & Pinot Noir (and lots more!) Paired with Charcuterie and cheese from Colm Jordan from the iconic Galway Saturday Market.

Cava Bodega welcomes Javier Murúa of Bodegas Muriel for an evening of talks, tapas, and wine, while Garavans hosts an award-winning Micil Tasting that explores the rich distilling traditions of Galway. At neighbourhood favourite Tom Sheridans will host Bia Bites: A celebration of local produce, with a wine pairing. And for those seeking a truly unique dining experience, Aniar presents the Chef Swap series, where guest chefs collaborate to create once-in-a-lifetime menus.

A celebration of food and experience in Galway Blas Na Gaillimhe – (A Taste of Galway) food network & festival that celebrates Galway’s unique year-round hospitality is kickstarting a month of deliciousness in May. Blas na Bealtaine will celebrate people and food from across the globe but right here in the west. The festival has a diverse lineup of workshops, talks, and events designed to introduce and ignite people’s passion for what is here on our doorstep. For all information visit https://atasteofgalway.com/events/ . Pictured at the official launch in The Kings Head were Lisa Regan Lisa Regan PR, David Fitzpatrick, BoTown Burgers and Diarmuid Ó Mathúna Potá Cafe. Blas na Bealtaine – May festival of food kicks off in Galway. Photo:Andrew Downes, xposure

Founder, Jp McMahon is passionate about the network, he believes Blas na Gaillimhe is a wonderful opportunity for the Galway restaurants and producers to showcase the best of what they do. “The network is focused on developing strong relationships and a vibrant food community in Galway thus benefiting people working in the industry and the diners. “

Get into Galway throughout May to celebrate the vibrant spirit of this internationally acclaimed food scene at Blas na Bealtaine. For more information and bookings, visit https://atasteofgalway.com/events/ or get social across Facebook and Instagram.

Featured Lifestyle

Workshop:Personal Branding

April 23, 2024

This morning I had the opportunity to give a workshop with female founders in the health space from Spain, Germany, Bulgaria, The Netherlands, Poland and Ireland on Personal Branding as part of an EIT Health programme: for a Women Entrepreneurial Bootcamp (WEB).

Thank you to Jenny Mullery who facilitates this from University of Galway IdeasLab for bringing me on board.

Building your brand and your communication style is an area I am very passionate about. Life is all about people and relationships, so why not make it easier, more engaging and fun.

We achieve so much when we listen to understand and appreciate peoples point of view. I also worked in the Value of critical thinking. To me it means being curious and leads to better decision making, self reflection,the ability to identify misinformation and build creative problem solving skills.

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Contemporary rural Irish story, GAMMY celebrates a final attempt in salvaging control of a discarded life

March 27, 2024

An Irish rural portrait of lost potential, inexpression, and female rage

GAMMY is the love child of Andrea Arnold’s ‘Fish Tank’, Mark O’Halloran’s ‘Garage’, with a dash of Stephen King’s ‘Misery’. The story is set with all puppy fat, pimples, missing teeth at 31 and working in the same old shop. GAMMY is stuck. GAMMY never grew up. GAMMY got left behind. But today is different, today something is finally going to happen.

Developed at FRINGE LAB with the support of Dublin Fringe Festival. In the words of singer/songwriter David Keenan, ‘It’s the ones who seem destined to get left behind interest me the most.’

Gammy is a portrait of an Irish contemporary rural female, fuelled by unbearable pain and vicious rage. Gammy is a tragicomedy, yet in its essence, it is a sensitive depiction of the impact of abuse and inexpression. Gammy is volatile, hostile when we meet her, she has reached a crisis point.

Written by Kate Finegan, directed by Laura Sheeran, performed by Eimear Keating, produced by Dani Gill House of Pluto, Lighting and Set Design: Zia Bergin Holly. Made with the support of the Arts Council of Ireland Theatre Project Award.

“I am inspired by the vulnerability and real presence of lost potential. I am interested in how inexpression and suppressed trauma can fester in the subconscious and lead to heinous actions.

“Rural Ireland has now become a melting pot of opposing generations, mixed cultures, and sexes. Gammy got left behind. She didn’t get her Leaving, she works in her Mum’s shop. She and her Mum are outcasts, living on the outskirts of town. Gammy is at war with herself, her self-disgust bleeds into her every day, into her relationships and how she sees the world,” explains writer Kate Finegan.

The location illustrates the conflict within Gammy’s inner and outer world. A small town that is growing vs Gammy’s inner turmoil narrowing in the decaying house/shop she lives in.

Gammy has watched everyone grow up, move out, and moved on and she is left here. She is confronted by the abusive and formative triggers of her past each day, which compound her trauma further. But not today, today Gammy is taking action.

GAMMY will open at The Project Arts Centre in Temple Bar on April 11th (3 shows) Tickets €18/€16 are available from www.projectartscentre.ie.

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Galway’s Westend kicks off 2024 sustainable tourism campaign

March 27, 2024

Walking Tours: Unveiling a journey through Galway’s vibrant cultural hub

Galway’s Westend, the beating heart of Galway City known for its captivating culture, is kicking off their sustainable tourism campaign on foot with their neighbourhood walking tours.

After their inaugural walking tour program which launched in June 2023, the immersive tours are back allowing visitors and locals to delve into the rich tapestry of Galway’s Westend, revealing the hidden gems, unique stories, and vibrant atmosphere that make it a must-visit destination.

Galway’s westend is celebrated for its bohemian charm, artistic flair, and diverse community, making it a focal point of Galway’s cultural scene. Galway’s westend Walking Tours aim to showcase this captivating district, guiding participants through its picturesque streets, unveiling its historical landmarks, and providing an intimate glimpse into the thriving arts, food, and music scene that defines the area.

 Led by expert local guides, each Galway’s westend Walking Tour will take participants on a journey of discovery, exploring the district’s rich history, captivating tales, and fascinating anecdotes. From traditional Irish music venues to independent boutiques, award-winning restaurants, and artisanal food markets, visitors will immerse themselves in the unique ambiance that defines Galway’s westend.

 The tours will tell the tales of Irish-town (West End) versus the Norman/English town of Galway to being introduced to the home of Lady Gregory’s son, Major Robert Gregory, whose death in January 1918 inspired WB Yeats poem, ‘An Irish Airman foresees his death’. Where now lies The Galway Arts Centre, Galway’s only dedicated art gallery and Aras Na Gael – the Irish language experience with Dance, music, song, conversation, and a bar!

The tours will begin each day on Raven’s Terrace where the great Claddagh connection begins. Tour guides will touch on Pawnbroker, Fish on Friday, Claddagh ring, Claddagh fishing tradition and the Galway Hookers.

Then the connection to maritime history will be the focus of walks along The Eglinton Canal that lead to the University. Tour guides will draw on the Lock gates, bridges, tow-paths and how the Canals connect to Corrib with Water activities from past to present day.

As people step through the neighbourhood, they will be introduced to the socio-cultural fabric through food, people and place and of course nuggets of information like, did you know that the area is home to Galway’s only LGBTQIA+ Bar, Nova on Henry Street?

Back into The Small Crane where the History of the Galway markets, potato, hay, turf, vegetable, pigs, calves were held and now will be told. Right alongside here the stories of prolific Galway author Walter Macken and of Titanic survivor Eugene Daly from Raleigh Row will be highlighted to walkers.

The tours will be available three times daily, at 11am,  3pm and 6pm from Ravens Terrace. Participants will be treated to a captivating journey through the district, lasting approximately 75 minutes. Tickets, €20 + Booking fee can be purchased online through the official Galway’s Westend website or directly at the meeting point.

For more information about Galway’s westend Walking Tours, including ticketing details and the tour schedule, please visit www.galwayswestend.ie.

Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #GalwaysWestendTours and stay up-to-date with the latest news and updates.

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UK Film Festival Nomination for Galway’s Blue Teapot 

March 11, 2024

Galway’s Blue Teapot Theatre Company will represent Ireland at the BAFTA qualifying Oska Bright Film Festival(UK), screening three self-produced films on St. Patrick’s Day, Sunday 17 March, as part of Reel Ireland documentary strand.

Oska Bright is the world’s leading festival for films made by or featuring people with intellectual disabilities or autism. Held in Brighton, the annual event screens over one hundred films with Blue Teapot’s  documentary ‘Enquire Within‘ chosen to close the week-long festival and is nominated for an award in the Best Story of a Life category.  Screening with Enquire Within are two other Blue Teapot produced documentaries – Prophecy (2021) and My Light will Blind You (2022).

Award winning independent filmmaker Fionn Rogers directed all three films. Speaking about the projects, Rogers explained, “The three documentaries are all very different and very special in their own way. Enquire Within was the most rewarding to work on, because of how organic it was and how the concept grew so naturally from the ground up”.

The documentary stemmed from Blue Teapot’s Outreach projects in collaboration with Galway County Council arts office, with a strategic aim of creating more impactful, experiential, inclusive arts practise across the County. Filmed in Clifden and shot over 8 days, Enquire Within involved people from the area, in front and behind the camera.

“To give people the opportunity to explore their ideas and get them hands on with film equipment they had never used before was amazing to experience first-hand”.  The resulting documentary explores the subject of employment from the perspective of young people, seniors and those with disabilities living in Connemara.

Talking about his experience as a first time Assistant Director, Blue Teapot artist Paul Connolly expressed, “It’s such a great honour to represent Blue Teapot, Criost Linn and the Clifden people involved at Oska Bright this year”. Along with his colleagues, Connolly is looking forward to attending the festival having received support from Culture Ireland.

In other developments, recently appointed Executive Director Jane Parsons is delighted to announce the launch of a new Friends Scheme, inviting individuals and businesses to partner with Blue Teapot to help make a positive difference to the creative lives of the company’s artists. This investment will empower the company to continue making game-changing theatre and provide opportunities for artists with intellectual disabilities.  

Further information or to discuss joining Blue Teapot Friends Scheme, email exec.director@blueteapot.ie or call 091 520 977.

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Celebrating Belonging with University of Galway’s IdeasLab

March 11, 2024

University of Galway’s IdeasLab celebrated International Women’s Day with an event, themed ‘Belonging,’ which brought together a diverse lineup of speakers and panellists to highlight the unique experiences and journeys of women in Ireland, as well as to promote inclusivity and equality.

08/03/2024 repro free: Celebrating Belonging on International Women’s Day: University of Galway’s IdeasLab Hosts Empowering Event The University of Galway’s IdeasLab celebrated International Women’s Day with a special event in the heart of Galway City in the Druid Theatre. The event, themed “Belonging,” brought together a diverse lineup of speakers and panelists to highlight the unique experiences and journeys of women in Ireland, as well as to promote inclusivity and equality. Keynote speaker Emer O’Neill, a well-known presenter and advocate, led an engaging discussion with a panel of female students from IdeasLab’s CreateHER programme. The panel delved into the multifaceted experiences of women in Ireland, inspiring thought-provoking conversations and reflections. The event also featured the comedic stylings of Áine Gallagher, bringing laughter and light-heartedness to the occasion. Dr. Helen Maher, Vice President for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at the University of Galway shared her insights and perspectives on fostering inclusivity and equality in higher education and the important role we have in society for society. The event marked the final celebration of the CreateHERprogramme, a pioneering initiative that empowers and supports female undergraduate students to explore and consider innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership in their personal and professional lives. The programme achieves this through round table workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities, which has since its launch early in 2022,created a vibrant community of empowered and skilled future female leaders and innovators. The participants involved in the CreateHER programme also have the unique opportunity to shadow and learn from influential female leaders in various industries, underscoring the programme’s commitment to providing practical guidance and real-world experience from all sectors across our city and region. The message is that by empowering and su

Keynote speaker Emer O’Neill, a well-known presenter and advocate, led an engaging discussion with a panel of female students from IdeasLab’s CreateHER programme. The panel delved into the multifaceted experiences of women in Ireland, inspiring thought-provoking conversations, and reflections.

The event also featured the comedic stylings of Áine Gallagher, bringing laughter and light-heartedness to the occasion. Dr. Helen Maher, Vice President for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at the University of Galway shared her insights and perspectives on fostering inclusivity and equality in higher education and the important role we have in society for society.

The event marked the final celebration of the CreateHER programme, a pioneering initiative that empowers and supports female undergraduate students to explore and consider innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership in their personal and professional lives. The programme achieves this through round table workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities, which has since its launch early in 2022, created a vibrant community of empowered and skilled future female leaders and innovators.

The participants involved in the CreateHER programme also have the unique opportunity to shadow and learn from influential female leaders in various industries, underscoring the programme’s commitment to providing practical guidance and real-world experience from all sectors across our city and region.

08/03/2024 repro free: Áine Gallagher, Comedian Celebrating Belonging on International Women’s Day: University of Galway’s IdeasLab Hosts Empowering Event The University of Galway’s IdeasLab celebrated International Women’s Day with a special event in the heart of Galway City in the Druid Theatre. The event, themed “Belonging,” brought together a diverse lineup of speakers and panelists to highlight the unique experiences and journeys of women in Ireland, as well as to promote inclusivity and equality. Keynote speaker Emer O’Neill, a well-known presenter and advocate, led an engaging discussion with a panel of female students from IdeasLab’s CreateHER programme. The panel delved into the multifaceted experiences of women in Ireland, inspiring thought-provoking conversations and reflections. The event also featured the comedic stylings of Áine Gallagher, bringing laughter and light-heartedness to the occasion. Dr. Helen Maher, Vice President for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at the University of Galway shared her insights and perspectives on fostering inclusivity and equality in higher education and the important role we have in society for society. The event marked the final celebration of the CreateHERprogramme, a pioneering initiative that empowers and supports female undergraduate students to explore and consider innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership in their personal and professional lives. The programme achieves this through round table workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities, which has since its launch early in 2022,created a vibrant community of empowered and skilled future female leaders and innovators. The participants involved in the CreateHER programme also have the unique opportunity to shadow and learn from influential female leaders in various industries, underscoring the programme’s commitment to providing practical guidance and real-world experience from all sectors across our city and region. The message i

The message is that by empowering and supporting each other as women from diverse backgrounds and experiences, these young women will build a network of support that will grow with them as they progress in life.  A belief that reaffirms the University of Galway’s commitment to nurturing a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment for all.

Jenny Mullery, Head of Engagement for IdeasLab said, “This is our 3rd iteration of CreateHer. Taking the feedback from the participants and contributors, the programme is growing and going from strength to strength. Providing undergraduates with the opportunity to connect with themselves, industry and the community is vital to give them the confidence to be the innovators and leaders in their chosen fields. 

Speaking of the event theme and the CreateHER programme, Emer O’Neill said, “Ní neart go cur le chéile, with unity comes strength and more than ever before we need to remind each other to be kind and share love and positivity”.

08/03/2024 repro free: Celebrating Belonging on International Women’s Day: University of Galway’s IdeasLab Hosts Empowering Event The University of Galway’s IdeasLab celebrated International Women’s Day with a special event in the heart of Galway City in the Druid Theatre. The event, themed “Belonging,” brought together a diverse lineup of speakers and panelists to highlight the unique experiences and journeys of women in Ireland, as well as to promote inclusivity and equality. Keynote speaker Emer O’Neill, (pictured) a well-known presenter and advocate, led an engaging discussion with a panel of female students from IdeasLab’s CreateHER programme. The panel delved into the multifaceted experiences of women in Ireland, inspiring thought-provoking conversations and reflections. The event also featured the comedic stylings of Áine Gallagher, bringing laughter and light-heartedness to the occasion. Dr. Helen Maher, Vice President for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at the University of Galway shared her insights and perspectives on fostering inclusivity and equality in higher education and the important role we have in society for society. The event marked the final celebration of the CreateHERprogramme, a pioneering initiative that empowers and supports female undergraduate students to explore and consider innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership in their personal and professional lives. The programme achieves this through round table workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities, which has since its launch early in 2022,created a vibrant community of empowered and skilled future female leaders and innovators. The participants involved in the CreateHER programme also have the unique opportunity to shadow and learn from influential female leaders in various industries, underscoring the programme’s commitment to providing practical guidance and real-world experience from all sectors across our city and region. The message is that by empo
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Goodwill from Galway to Africa

March 11, 2024

Pictures from the International Women’s Day sell out luncheon at The Kings Head for Self Help Africa, where guests were treated to a 3 course meal sponsored in full by The Kings Head so that all proceeds went to Self Help Africa projects associated with Women’s projects in Africa.


Self Help Africa works to provide women and families with the ability to produce more food, earn more from their farming activities and help mothers and fathers to provide a better life for their children.

08/03/2024 repro free: Aoife Kenny, BASH HQ , Mary Grealish, KingÕs head and Lisa Regan, Lisa Regan pr celebrating International WomenÕs day sponsored by the KingÕs Head Bar/Restaurant in aid of Self Help Africa . Photo:Andrew Downes, XPOSURE

The charity supports and works with women and families in 16 countries in Africa and the Developing World. The luncheon will support the East Africa appeal where some 36 million are affected by drought and conflict and are facing starvation and loss of livelihoods.

08/03/2024 repro free: Mary Grealish, King’s head with Mayor of Galway Clr. Eddie Hoare and Ronan Scully Self Help Africa celebrating International Women’s day sponsored by the King’s Head Bar/Restaurant in aid of Self Help Africa . Photo:Andrew Downes, XPOSURE
08/03/2024 repro free: Mia Scully, Oonagh Scully Siobhan Kelly and Vanessa Shortall celebrating International WomenÕs day sponsored by the KingÕs Head Bar/Restaurant in aid of Self Help Africa . Photo:Andrew Downes, XPOSURE
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The Role of Legacy Media- How to position your message into a story.

February 14, 2024

Working with University of Limerick and talking on the importance and the role of Legacy media in getting your message out.

Trusted sources working together from a PR perspective and from the media outlets- what are you trying to say and how can you get that to land?

Not everything will land and you need to know what is a story and what is of interest.

We talked on:

Know Your Audience, Clarity is Key, Emotional Appeal and what is your Call to Action.

Featured Wait till I tell ya

The LRPR Guide to Radio Interviews

February 9, 2024

The Radio Interview how to really get your key points across effectively

Preparation, clarity, and concise communication

My number one is to Listen to the question asked and respond to the points raised.

Pay attention to the interviewer’s questions and feedback, and respond thoughtfully. Engage in a dialogue rather than delivering a monologue, and be prepared to adapt your key points based on the flow of the conversation.

Tone, pitch and energy…..Be Engaging: Radio is an auditory medium, so use your voice to convey enthusiasm and passion for your subject. Speak clearly and with energy to captivate listeners and hold their attention.

Know Your Key Points: Before the interview, identify the main messages you want to convey. These could be the key ideas, statistics, or stories you want the audience to remember. Personal experiences or case studies can help illustrate your message and make it more engaging

Prepare Talking Points: Develop talking points around your key messages. These should be brief, memorable phrases or sentences that encapsulate your main ideas.

Practice Concise Responses: Radio interviews often have limited time, so practice delivering your key points concisely. Aim to express each point clearly and succinctly, using simple language that listeners can easily understand.

Stay Focused + be Engaging: Be human the interview will not go 100% the way you have planned so you need to adapt. This comes through listening and sensing the tone of the conversation. If you feel it is going in a way you want to switch up, then do not ignore what you are asked but segway into where you want to go then to bring yourself back to your key talking points. If the interviewer asks unrelated questions, politely steer the conversation back to your main messages.

Stop using unnecessary words and watch your use and then repetition of words like:

Never ever say this- Basically (Nothing about what we do is basic so please eliminate this from your vocab)

I suppose

Am, am, am

Please at the top of the interview when you are greeted by the presenter for being on, just say Good morning, Claire, no need for thanks for having me on etc.

Provide Clear Takeaways.