"I plan on catching up with family and friends; we don't realise how much we rely on social interaction with them until it is gone. I look forward to enjoying the simple things in life such as playing football with the children in the park, walking the prom, etc, stuff we possibly took for granted prior to Covid-19.
"Although my public events have been wiped from the diary, I am still Mayor of the city and have been engaged in quite a few conference and video calls with regular updates on major changes that affect the city. At the outset I attended a number of meetings with bank officials, Revenue, and the local business group representatives to seek information and support for them. In the past few days I have been added to the Community Support Response Forum so that has been busy ensuring the relevant support networks are there for those within our communities who need them. I also give two daily updates on my social media (1.30pm and 6.30pm ) to give factual and clear information on the developments due to Covid-19. In a time of so much nonsense circulating, it is crucial those of us in leadership roles take the initiative and keep people informed on the facts.
"On a more relaxed front I have had time to catch up on programmes such as Power, Homeland, and Sunderland 'Til I Die on Netflix and jobs such as painting the garden shed are finally being done.
"As Mayor of the city I want to thank our medical and frontline workers. I know from speaking to many of you in recent weeks the sacrifices you are making. You are putting yourselves in harm's way on the frontline. Modern day heros don't wear capes and that's what you are. In a small gesture last week I requested that people fly a flag from their home or business to show our appreciation to you. I am delighted to see so many flags flying not just in Galway but nationwide. Keep safe and thank you again for your hard work and dedication during this uncertain and unprecedented time.
"And to family, friends, and the people of Galway, keep listening to the medical experts, we are not in a trial period. We have one chance to beat this so let's continue to adhere to the guidelines as set out."
