Sally-Ann Barrett

a young girl smiles as she sits at a desk in a classroom

Uncertain future for some small schools in rural Ireland

Recent data published by the Department of Education and Youth found that 6,470 fewer children are attending primary school this year compared to last year.

Connacht • 06 Feb

The two Scoil an Chroí Naofa buildings in Ballinasloe

School community appeals to Minister to prioritise build

Campaigners in Ballinasloe have appealed to Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton to urgently prioritise the long‑awaited construction of a new primary school for the town, a project they say is now the longest‑running school building project in the country.

Connacht • 23 Jan

oughrea Hurler Joe Mooney with his 3rd and 4th class students at St Brendan Boys NS

Confidence high as Loughrea eyes historic win

The countdown is on for this weekend's All-Ireland Senior Club Finals at Croke Park, and excitement is building in Co Galway as St Brendan's of Loughrea prepare to face Ballygunner of Waterford in Sunday's hurling decider.

Connacht • 14 Jan

Athenry Captain Dervla Higgins with pupils of Newcastle National School.

'Full circle' - All-Ireland camogie team visit old school

After a long road to victory, the Athenry camogie team claimed the All-Ireland club title last weekend and this week, the players embarked on a tour of local schools with the Bill and Agnes Carroll Cup.

Connacht • 08 Jan

Fuels for Ireland warns of petrol and diesel price hikes

The CEO of Fuels for Ireland has called on the Government to review Ireland's fuel-taxation framework as motorists face another price hike at the pumps.

Business • 02 Jan

The Athenry side are seeking to land a first All-Ireland Senior Camogie Club Championship since 1977

Final showdown: Athenry ready for All-Ireland replay

While most of us were indulging over Christmas and New Year, for some GAA players it has been a period of hard training and abstinence ahead of major club finals in camogie and hurling.

Sport • 02 Jan

'Not giving up' - Tuam families fight to keep crèche open

Seventy-two families in Tuam, Co Galway are in a race against time to secure alternative childcare following the announcement that the town's Happily Ever After Childcare facility has been issued with a closure notice and will cease operations at the end of this month.

Connacht • 14 Oct 25

Liam Maher and Santina Coyle stand outside their shop and face the camera

Reopened businesses bring new life to Tipperary villages

Despite years of closures, rural Ireland is showing signs of renewal, as local entrepreneurs reopen long-shuttered shops and pubs, restoring vital social and economic hubs.

Munster • 08 Sep 25

Image of a woman and her baby at public meeting in Ballinasloe

Rally to be held in Ballinasloe over maternity services

A public rally will take place in Ballinasloe later this month in response to concerns regarding the future of maternity services at Portiuncula University Hospital in Galway.

Connacht • 06 Aug 25

GAA for All camps serving children with additional needs

This week at Pearse Stadium, coaches and volunteers of Galway GAA hosted the county's first GAA for All Inclusive Cúl Camp of the summer.

Connacht • 25 Jul 25