Calls for hospital parking charges ban after figure reveal
A total of €630,000 was collected in parking charges by University Hospital Galway last year, according to figures released by the HSE.
The figure for UHG was the second highest in the State, with car parking charges in public hospitals around the Republic of Ireland bringing in a total of €5.2 million. People Before Profit Galway has renewed its call for such charges to be abolished.
“Hospital parking charges are effectively a tax on being sick or having a sick relative,” said PBP Galway representative Adrian Curran. “Going into hospital, or visiting a sick relative, is a stressful enough time without the added stress of these fees. Someone getting sick should not be seen as an opportunity to exploit them for profit.”
Cheevers wants council to issue credit for use of pitches
Cllr Alan Cheevers is calling on the Galway City Council to issue a full credit on pitch licence fees for clubs in the city.
Renewals of licences on local authority lands will be up for renewal in the coming months.
Cllr Cheevers intends to speak to both Minister for Sport Jack Chambers and Minister for Housing and Local Authority Darragh O’Brien about the problem.
“I believe that with most of season suspended for many soccer clubs and also for GAA clubs or losing parts of their season Galway City Council need to show support,” Cllr Cheevers says.
“It has been a very difficult time for sports clubs and loss of revenue due to Covid 19 many clubs depend on club lottos or other fundraising methods to keep overheads paid.
“This licence fee credit in some way will help getting clubs back on there feet but also support club members in a year were our health and wellbeing is so important.
He concluded: “I am asking asking Galway City Council to support this proposal and engage with the ministers.” — Cian O’Connell
Study to chose route for the Silverstrand to city centre walkway/cycleway
A feasibility study, identifying a suitable route for the Silverstrand to city centre walkway/cycleway, has been commissioned by the Galway City Council.
Consultants have been appointed to undertake a high-level assessment and prepare a feasibility study. There will be public consultation throughout the various stages of the process.
The news has been welcomed by Fine Gael Galway City West councillor, Clodagh Higgins, who has been an advocate of the project.
“Creating this walkway and cycleway will be a gamechanger for the community particularly for those who cycle, walk, rely on wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or parents with pushchairs and prams,” she said.
“A dedicated route will make for a more pleasant journey for all and it will provide a safe amenity for the people of Galway and beyond to enjoy. This is the first step in delivering such an important piece of infrastructure for the city.” — Kernan Andrews
