Local Notes: Gaeltacht status conferred at SN Dhumha Thuama, Erris.
SN Dhumha Thuama students Dónal MacAndriú and Lily Barréad meeting Laura Pakenham from CULA4 on the occasion of their school receiving its Gaeltacht status in a ceremony in Westport recently.
Congratulations to the staff and pupils at SN Dhumha Thuama who recently had their Gaeltacht status conferred on them by the Department of Education and Skills. This is a great moment for all and keeping in mind that it’s becoming difficult for schools to retain Gaeltacht status with only seven schools in Erris now.
Ocean Integrity is delighted to announce that West Coast Crab Ltd from Belmullet has joined the fight against marine pollution by enrolling in their marine waste management program.
Under the West Coast Crab brand, three fishing companies will utilise the unique application to upload data on all fishing equipment and supplies brought to sea. This information will be tracked using cutting-edge blockchain technology. Regular reports and updates will be provided to the skippers and owners of the vessels, allowing them to monitor the progress of their conservation efforts.
West Coast Crab Sales Limited is a premier Irish shellfish supplier, specialising in the catch and supply of top-quality brown crab and European lobster to both domestic and international markets.
Captain Kieran Kelly’s statement emphasises the collective effort of vessels involved in Ocean Integrity’s Maritime West Management program to combat ocean plastic pollution, particularly in developing countries. He underscores the unity among fishermen worldwide, regardless of race, religion, or gender; ‘we are all fishermen and are joined in this critical fight against environmental degradation. This collaborative approach highlights the global commitment to preserving our oceans and addressing the pressing issue of plastic waste’.
West Coast Crab Ltd statement…’We are delighted to be joining Ocean Integrity's programme to help prove how responsible fishermen actually are with waste management. For over 40 years, we have proudly supplied markets in Ireland, the UK, and mainland Europe, including countries like France, Spain, and Portugal. In recent years, we also expanded our reach to the Asian market, exporting live Brown Crab to China and Hong Kong. With a global customer base, the success in the shellfish business stems from our commitment to high-quality fishing methods and strong relationships with our customers. As a family-run business, we are recognised as a leader in the field, synonymous with excellence and quality."
Established in 2016 by brothers Jonathan and Patrick O’Donnell, West Coast Crab Sales Limited emerged from their years of experience fishing with smaller vessels. They recognised the need for larger boats capable of year-round fishing, and these new vessels, alongside their existing fleet, now serve as the primary suppliers of crab to West Coast Crab Sales Ltd.
Each crew member is trained to the highest standards, ensuring that their catch is fished responsibly and handled with care. This dedication guarantees an optimal quality shellfish product with high meat content.
Minister of State Dara Calleary TD has welcomed confirmation of approval for a one classroom extension at Colaiste Chomain, Rossport.
“I am pleased to confirm that Minister Foley has sanctioned the removal of a prefab from the site at Colaiste Chomain and the addition of a one classroom extension. I want to congratulate principal Mr Irwin and his Board, teachers and pupils. This is great news for the school and I am glad to have been able to assist them in securing this investment. I look forward to working with the school in relation to other proposed projects including ‘A year in the Gaeltacht’ in the weeks and months ahead’, he said.
Minister of State Dara Calleary is delighted to have secured a two-classroom extension for Scoil Bhreandáin Éachleim this week.
‘I am delighted to confirm that Scoil Bhreandàin, Èachlèim, has been sanctioned two classroom extension. Minister for Education Norma Foley TD confirmed the news to me this week’. ‘I am delighted for Mr. O'Mongàin, the staff, Board of Management, community and most importantly the pupils of this wonderful school. My thanks to Cllr Sean Carey for his support in securing this investment in the future of the school. The two new classroom extension will future-proof the school for further growth and is great news for the local community and economy’.
Well done to Erris St Pats U13 team who represented Erris in the annual Gearóid Murphy Blitz hosted by Achill GAA at Davitts Park recently, losing out in the last kick of the game after extra time.
They narrowly lost to home favourites Achill in a thrilling final after extra time, after already overcoming 2 other very strong teams, Kilmeena and Burrishoole in the round robin stages who are both competing in higher divisions in Mayo GAA at this age group. The young St Pats team fresh from winning the U13 Division 5 final in Bekan, gave it their all before a long range kick on the final whistle proved the one point margin to seal the win for Achill. Confidence was high in the Erris St Pats team, facing into the round robin stages, but a strong Achill U13s side, who retained most of their U14 county finalists were too strong from the off, winning the first round robin match.
However Erris St. Pats overcame this setback to convincingly beat Burrishoole and Kilmeena next and set up a classic final with Achill who was undefeated throughout. It was an epic final with the side’s level at half time and yet again level at full time. Half time of extra-time saw Erris St Pats ahead by a point and in the closing minute the sides were again level before Achill got the winning point as the full time whistle sounded. Disappointing to lose out after such a gallant display of football but given the heart each player showed, they can hold their heads high, at the end on a very successful season.
Commenting on the amalgamation of the 2 Barony clubs, Kiltane and Ballycroy to form St Pats, the host club’s Tommy Joyce of Achill in the presentation ceremony paid tribute to the way the 2 clubs have gelled together and played so well as a team.
There is an office assistant required for the Belmullet area, Rural Social Scheme. The duties are office and administration/clerical duties. The applicant must be in receipt of one of the following payments from the Department of Employment and Social Protection (JA, DA, OPF, FA) and have a herd number or fisheries licence or have access to the use of a spouses, sibling or parents herd number. Closing date for applications is October 31. For further information contact Sean Carey at 087 9623799.
A group of 6th year students travelled to the Career Path Options event recently as part of their career guidance programme. The group attended guest speakers on study options in Ireland, the UK and in Europe, and also spoke to representatives from all major higher education institutes in Ireland. A valuable experience for all!
The U15 boys’ soccer team were involved in a thrilling game recently, narrowly losing out 6-4 to a seasoned Grange Community School side. To say the lads battled hard was an understatement. The heart and determination on display was a joy for all that witnessed it. Three of the goals were scored by 3 first year students; Johnny Carey, Finn Gallagher and a sublime slalom run by the tenacious Anthony Padden, and finally a fourth from captain and the only 3rd year student in the squad, Matthew Keegan.
The Broadhaven Bay Hotel in Belmullet has become the first hotel in Ireland to install a Flinebox Mobile Breathalyser Device in partnership with the Road Safety Authority Ireland. This self-service device is now available in the hotel’s reception area, allowing guests to check their alcohol levels before driving. It is perfect for weddings, events, or just after a stay – making it easier to stay safe on the road. Well done to the team at the hotel for leading the way in promoting guest safety.
Applications are invited for the position of childcare assistant in Naíonra Gleann na Muaidhe Pre-school. The person appointed will be fluent in the Irish language, enjoy working with children and will be required to attend childcare courses. This is a part-time position (15 hours per week) working from Monday to Friday. The applicant must have a Level 5 childcare qualification (QQI/FETAC or its equivalent). Application forms are available from Treasa Ní Ghearraigh, An tSeanscoil, Ceathrú Thaidhg, Béal an Átha, Co. Mhaigh Eo (097 88082 / 087 1251642). The completed form should be forwarded to Treasa before Wednesday, October 30.
Locked out of your laptop? Fed up with your smart phone? Ticked off with your tablet? If your device is getting you down you know you could be doing more with it but you don’t know how, come a-long to the drop in sessions and get some useful tips and advice in a one-to -one consultation with IT experts in Belmullet Library on Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s from 5-6.30pm.
In conjunction with Intreo (Department of Social Protection), Erris Workability is hosting a coffee morning for employers in the Tourist Office on Main Street in Belmullet on Tuesday, November 5, from 11am to 1pm. Pop in and find out about the supports, incentives and grants available for employers. This is suitable for private sector employers, social enterprises, charities and self-employed people.
"Spooky Halloween Fancy dress party takes place in Teach Greannai in Cornboy, on this Wednesday, October 30, at 3pm until 5 pm. We look forward to eating and greeting you little warlocks and witches."
Mayo North East is delivering free Digital training workshops in Teach Greannai, to help you get online. If you wish to take part, ring Celia on 097 88935.
