So, after a week where we saw the worst storm in Irish history, I guess we could all do with a little cheering up. Let’s take a look at some feel good news from around the country and hopefully bring some smiles back to faces shall we? Let’s get into it!
The Big Irish Head on You!
This month saw the ever-popular BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition held in the RDS. With over 2,000 projects on display over the long weekend, one project in particular stole the show! Farrah Corbett from Coláiste Chiaráin in Co Limerick had an unusual study exploring if Irish people have bigger heads than those from other countries. Although the results were inconclusive, Farrah was hoping to explore the phrase ‘The Big Irish Head on You’ and prove once and for all, if Irish folk have bigger noggins than most!
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The video clip went viral on X and even though Farrah couldn’t definitively prove it, one look at Colm Meaney’s big melon is all the proof we need. Hopefully next year, somebody will prove that flat 7-up cures all that ails you! Fingers crossed.
Galway Smart Benches
The lucky locals of Galway City seem to be five steps ahead of the rest of the world. While we’re all playing checker, they are playing chess (online, on their phones). Dotted around Galway City, these three new benches are getting rave reviews from many locals. The benches are bright red, with solar panels to power their internal batteries. They provide free Wi-Fi hot spots and even have USB ports so you can plug in your devices to charge while you sit and watch the world go by.
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However, not all locals are enamoured with the bright red benches. According to RTÉ News, some tax payers are concerned about the cost of these hi tech seats and wonder if it’s a waste of money. Still, whatever side of the fence/bench you sit on, having a place to charge your phone when you’re caught outdoors on 2% battery is always welcome. Now there’s no reason why you can’t catch up with all the best stories here at LADBible while you’re out and about in Galway!
Ardmore ‘Best in Class’ Water Sports Facility
Work will begin next month on a new €1.3 million water sports facility in Ardmore, Co Waterford, as part of a regeneration project to boost tourism year-round. With funding from Fáilte Ireland's Platforms for Growth Scheme, the facility will offer first-rate facilities for sea swimming, surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding to both residents and tourists.
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Property vacancy, dereliction, and population decline made Ardmore a priority town for investment according to Waterford City and County Council. The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, which is part of the Department of Rural and Community Development, has allotted €3.27 million.
RTÉ News received a quote from Waterford City County Council, "The aim of the proposal is to create an extension of the village core along the proposed relief road, in which people will live, connect, and engage with their physical environment."
The relief road and public realm works' detailed designs are also about to commence, which is a huge and welcomed step forward for Ardmore's revitalisation.
Dublin to Become the World’s First Autism-Friendly Capital
Dublin aims to become the world’s first autism-friendly capital city through the AsIAm Autism-Friendly Communities Awards Programme. Announced during Inclusion and Integration Week, the initiative includes a three-year plan launching in January 2024. The plan will address infrastructure, education, healthcare, recreation, and community support, shaped by input from autistic individuals and their families.
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A steering group, including the Lord Mayor, officials, advocacy groups, and experts, will host four public events to discuss goals, metrics, and implementation strategies. These events will focus on public awareness, individual sectors, and city-wide inclusivity.
Champion organizations from business, public, and voluntary sectors will be recruited to commit to training and small changes, such as introducing quiet times. This initiative aims to remove barriers, foster belonging, and ensure Dublin is a place where autistic individuals and families feel welcome, supported, and engaged in all aspects of life. More details are available at www.dublincityinclusion.ie.
Topics: Ireland
Paul Farrelly