Athenry News & Views Spring 2026

Spring 2026 Athenry Spring 2026 Free Online Publication NEWS & VIEWS News - Sport - Farming - Health - Music - Fashion Culture -Travel - Folklore - History

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Athenry News & Views

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Spring 2026

NEWS & VIEWS Athenry

Published by: The Athenry Experience Group Next Edition June 2026 Articles & Advertisments to: athenryexperience@gmail.com

Editorial Welcome to the Spring 2026 edition of Athenry News & Views.

There is a great deal happening around Athenry and East Galway. Our aim is to bring you the stories, developments and achievements that make our town and surrounding areas such a vibrant place to live. Through this publication we hope to keep everyone informed and connected with the many activities and positive changes taking place across our communities. This publication is about communication. We want to keep people up to date with local developments, share the stories and provide a platform where communities can stay connected. Supporting local businesses is also an important part of the publication. Advertising helps businesses reach their customers while also supporting the continued production of this magazine. Another important aspect is maintaining a link with the diaspora. Many of our friends and family now live across the world and staying connected with home is more important now than ever. We hope this publication helps keep that connection alive. This magazine is also a place to celebrate the achievements of our communities. We encourage you to share your stories, milestones and successes. Just as importantly, we want to hear your views on the issues and events that affect the town and surrounding areas. Producing this publication takes a great deal of effort from a dedicated group of volunteers. To ensure it continues to grow, we are always looking for people who would like to contribute articles, source stories, help coordinate content or support the project in other ways. If you have some time to spare and would like to get involved, we would be delighted to hear from you. We would like to thank everyone who has contributed articles, provided content, supported the publication through advertising and helped bring this edition together. Finally, anyone who would like a printed copy of this edition a limited number will be available within one month of publication. The cost is €10 plus postage for the semi-gloss printed book, email us and we will notify you when copies are available. We sincerely hope you enjoy this Spring edition. 1

Editorial Group: Steve Dolan, Joe Monaghan,

Athenry Experience Free Online Library

Philip Magnier, James Lundon, Patricia O’Grady, Sylvia Ryan, Ann Poniard, Sean Cleary, Jarlath Cloonan.

Cover Photograph by Joe Burke

Website: athenryexperience.ie

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Athenry News & Views

More to St. Patrick’s Day than parades and green hats ............................................... Galway County Council News - Cllr Peter Feeney .......................................................... Major upgrade coming to Athenry Playground ............................................................... Future Proofing Education in Athenry - Albert Dolan .................................................... Athenry Agricultural Show 2026 ........................................................................................... Local Transport Updates – Louis O’Hara T.D. ................................................................... Athenry Credit Union at Sixty ................................................................................................. Local pride on the big screen ................................................................................................. East Galway leading the way for Slow Tourism............................................................... Titanic sinking in 1912 shocks the world ............................................................................ Cycle Right and Sustainable Travel at Esker N.S. ........................................................... Athenry Men’s Shed - Year of Activity, Community and Craft ................................. End of Gardner Family Legacy .............................................................................................. Athenry’s Modern Fire Station ............................................................................................... St. Oliver Plunkett N.S (Newcastle N.S.) ............................................................................. Farming Safety During Spring ............................................................................................... Transcendental Meditation: Simple-Easy-Effective ...................................................... The difference between Us ..................................................................................................... Coláiste an Eachréidh agus Gaelscoil Riada ..................................................................... Family History Research - Useful Free Websites continued ...................................... Coldwood National School ...................................................................................................... Extracts from the diary of Peter Broderick ...................................................................... Athenry Simanjiro Partnership -Twenty years on ......................................................... Inside the Athenry Bía Innovator Campus ........................................................................ Young Scientists & Technology Exhibition- From Waste to Wealth ...................... Traval: Baluchistan 2024 ......................................................................................................... Minimalist Gardening ................................................................................................................ Frank & Mary Coyne ................................................................................................................. Ballrooms of Romance ............................................................................................................. Clooncah House .......................................................................................................................... Lisheenkyle National School .................................................................................................. Unearthing the Attymon Hoard ............................................................................................ Wakes, Grief and Community ............................................................................................... Teampall Geal .............................................................................................................................. Presentation College Photo Gallery ................................................................................... Monivea Rugby Club – The Early Days ............................................................................. Athenry Rounders - A Season to Remember ................................................................ Colemanstown United - Plaque of gratitude unveiled at Grounds ....................... GAA man Tim hangs up his Kenny Park Keys............................................................... Record Numbers for Fields of Athenry 10K .................................................................... Athenry Football - News and Updates ............................................................................. Athenry GAA - Table Quiz- Lotto Winner - New President ...................................... Golf- Captains Drive Out......................................................................................................... National Senior 400m Indoor Title for Sean Doggett ................................................ Athenry’s first All-Ireland Camogie Triumph ................................................................. All-Ireland Club Camogie Final Replay ............................................................................. All-Ireland glory brings joy to Athenry ............................................................................. Contents

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from all at ATHENRY & EAST GALWAY NEWS & VIEWS

More to St. Patrick’s Day than Parades and Green Hats

We celebrate St. Patrick’s Day to mark the life and legacy of Saint Patrick, the 5th-century missionary traditionally credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. If you want the real story of St. Patrick’s Day it’s more layered than parades and green hats. Originally, the day marked the anniversary of Patrick’s death and was observed as a religious feast day. For centuries in Ireland, it was a solemn occasion centred on church services, prayer and reflection. It recognised the spread of Christianity across the island and the profound cultural shift that followed. Over time, the meaning of the day expanded. As Irish people emigrated in large numbers, particularly to North America, St. Patrick’s Day became a powerful expression of Irish identity and pride. Public parades and celebrations allowed Irish communities abroad to honour their heritage at a time when they often faced hardship and discrimination. Today, the celebration blends faith, history, and culture. It acknowledges Ireland’s Christian heritage, celebrates Irish traditions and connects millions of people worldwide who share Irish roots. Symbols such as the shamrock, long associated with Patrick’s teaching and the colour green, linked to Ireland’s landscape and national identity, have become central to the festivities.

While modern celebrations are often lively and global in scale, the heart of the day remains a remembrance of a figure whose story shaped Ireland’s spiritual and cultural development. St Patrick’s Confession is a short autobiographical work written in Latin in the 5th century. It is not a confession of sins in the modern sense, but a personal defence and spiritual testimony. In it, Patrick explains his life story, his calling and the criticism he faced as a missionary in Ireland. Patrick begins by describing his early life in Roman Britain. As a teenager, he was captured by Irish raiders and enslaved in Ireland for six years. During this time, he worked as a shepherd and turned deeply to prayer. He writes that suffering transformed his faith, bringing him closer to God. He recounts a dream in which he was told to escape. Patrick fled Ireland and eventually returned home. However, after some time, he experienced another vision - the “Voice of the Irish” - calling him back to Ireland to preach the Gospel. Despite feeling uneducated and unworthy, he believed it was his divine mission to return. A large part of the Confession defends Patrick against accusations from critics, possibly church authorities in Britain. He insists that he did not seek wealth or status in Ireland and refused gifts from kings and converts.

He portrays himself as humble, imperfect and entirely dependent on God’s guidance. Patrick also reflects on the dangers he faced - imprisonment, threats, hostility yet sees these hardships as proof of God’s protection and purpose. His writing is emotional and deeply sincere. It reveals a man who believed absolutely in his calling. The Confession is one of the earliest written sources connected to Ireland. More than a missionary report, it is a personal spiritual autobiography. Through it, we see Patrick not as legend, but as a determined and deeply faithful individual who believed his captivity became the path to his life’s mission.

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Athenry News & Views

Galway County Council News

By: Cllr. Peter Feeney

ATHENRY CAMOGIE UPDATE It has been an amazing couple of months for Athenry Camogie Club. We’ll never forget the All-Ireland Club Final in Croke Park, the replay in Thurles, and the homecoming at The Square. These were incredible performances, showing a “never say die” attitude from a team we are all so proud of. In recent weeks, the green light has also been given for a new home for the club at Gortnahown. Galway County Council has granted permission for three grass pitches, an all-weather pitch, and associated sports development works. This is a huge achievement in an excellent location and the result of years of dedication by the club. Great credit is due to everyone involved, especially the development committee, whose work will benefit generations of The Ring Road section currently under construction at Ballygurrane has received €2 million in funding from the Department of Transport through Galway County Council. The section is expected to open mid-year. An application to the Housing Activation Fund is also being prepared to support the next phase of the road, extending from the Tuam Road junction towards the Monivea Road. This development aims to open lands for housing in the Ballydavid South and Caheroyan areas. CANTON HALL REFURBISHMENT Athenry Community Council has been awarded €42,000 in grant funding to refurbish Canton Hall on Church Street. The funding comes from the Department of Community and Rural Development through Galway County Council under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. This funding will support detailed surveying, design work, and preliminary refurbishment works. A further funding application will follow to fully renovate the building, which is over 100 years old. young people in Athenry. NORTHERN RING ROAD

When completed, it will provide a valuable community space. Credit is due to the Community Council, Parish, and Diocese for advancing this important initiative. PLAYGROUND UPGRADE The Athenry Playground Group has done tremendous work developing plans to refurbish the playground. This project involved close cooperation with Athenry Community Council and securing funding from Galway Rural Development, bridging finance from the Western Development Commission, and Local Property Tax funding from Galway County Council. Great credit is due to the hardworking committee who led fundraising, design, and tendering work. The completed project will stand as a fitting tribute to their efforts. CROSSING AT CAHEROYAN Late last year, €15,000 in discretionary funding was allocated towards the construction of a pedestrian crossing at Caheroyan near Quinn’s Funeral Home. Consultation has recently been launched, and the crossing is expected to be installed shortly. This crossing will slow traffic approaching the town and railway bridge and allow pedestrians to cross safely — particularly

important with two new schools scheduled for construction nearby. Further crossings are planned as the town grows.The Ard Aoibhinn area and Raheen Road crossings are expected to be addressed as part of an Active Travel scheme. The recently completed lighting of the New Line junction crossing was long delayed; this issue was raised with ESB representatives at a recent Council meeting. ROADS FUNDING Recent transport funding announcements have included several welcome safety projects: €75,000 for safety works on the Monivea Road at Caheroyan €50,000 for works at Casey’s Cross €30,000 for improvements at the Cemetery Cross approach These works will slow traffic approaching the town and improve safety for residents and road users.

Roadworks at the Dexcom Roundabout

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Major upgrade coming to Athenry Playground

had to be removed for safety reasons after it began rotting. Children will soon be able to enjoy the playground in its full capacity,” said Dr Michelle McMahon, treasurer of ACPG. “The new equipment will have something for everyone, with special sensory and mobility elements for children with differing abilities.” The new play elements pull from Athenry’s heritage town. “The playground is in the centre of town, between the Athenry Castle and the priory. It was important to us that the playground didn’t detract from the surrounding scenery,” said Erin Maglione, chairperson.

Volunteers from Athenry Community Playground Group spent 2025 fundraising for the upgrades by hosting community events like Athenry’s Big Day Out, and raised over €25,000 toward the renovations. Galway County Council also promised €40,000 of local property tax, which is used as match funding for the grant. Athenry Community Council and Galway Rural Development worked with the group to get €122,992 through the LEADER

The new equipment, provided by Kompan, will include long lasting weather resistant timber in a medieval theme, with a large castle climbing frame for older children and a medieval town styled junior play area. Swing sets will also be upgraded to include multi-use swings, which will encourage parents to participate in play with their children. This upgrade is just the beginning for Athenry according to the group, who are actively working with Athenry Community Council to provide additional space for a teen-oriented amenity, and have approached Galway County Council for help. Unlike council owned playgrounds in Tuam and Loughrea which have designated teen spaces, Athenry playground does not currently offer any such amenity because the county council who insure the playground, will not insure a designated teen space. “It’s an issue of ownership,” explained Shauna Coll, ACPG secretary. “There is no county council owned property in Athenry that can be used and insured as a teen space. As excited as we are to be able to upgrade the playground, we acknowledge that there is a large group of our community still lacking a social space, and we want to work to remedy that.” The group hopes the Town Centre First Programme and Galway County Council will be able to provide something for teens in Athenry. The LEADER funded renovation is the first step for Athenry Playground and a major boost to the community, according to ACPG, but they are not stopping there. For more information on their plans visit athenryplayground.ie.

programme 2023-2027. The community-owned

playground is over 20 years old and missing key equipment which

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Athenry News & Views

Future Proofing Education in Athenry

By: Albert Dolan T.D.

Athenry is a community that continues to grow, diversify and look confidently to the future. As more families make their homes in the area, the needs of our young people must remain at the centre of local planning. Education is one of the most important foundations for any town, and ensuring that Athenry has strong, modern and well-resourced schools is essential to supporting the next generation. That is why the recent announcements regarding Gaelscoil Riada and Coláiste an Eachréidh mark such an important milestone for the wider Athenry area. These projects reflect years of work by local parents, school communities and officials who have consistently highlighted the need for expanded and improved educational facilities as the town continues to grow. The confirmation that Gaelscoil Riada will move forward provides reassurance for families who want their children educated through Irish in a permanent, fit-for-purpose setting. The school has long demonstrated the strength of Irish-medium education in this region, and securing its future is a positive development for both the community and the language. Similarly, the progress on Coláiste an Eachréidh represents a significant step in meeting the demands of a large and expanding student population. The school has built a strong reputation over many years, and a modern building with the space and facilities required will allow students and teachers to thrive well into the future.

matter. They shape the daily experience of students and teachers, influence the subjects that can be offered, and create an environment where learning, sport, creativity and wellbeing can flourish. Investment in modern school infrastructure is ultimately an investment in opportunity. As Athenry develops, it is important that educational planning keeps pace with population growth, new housing and the increasing demand for school places. Continued investment in

education across the region supports families, strengthens communities and ensures that young people have access to the opportunities they deserve close to home. The announcements for Gaelscoil Riada and Coláiste an Eachréidh are welcome steps forward. They reflect a wider commitment to supporting education in the Athenry area and ensuring that the town’s future is one where every child has the space, resources and environment they need to reach their full potential.

At the Monivea playground signing for Leader funding - from the left: Steve Dolan G.R.D, Conor Carty, Treasa Farraher, Elena Conboy, Laura Callanan, Albert Dolan T.D. and Cllr. Sean Broderick.

Education is not just about buildings, but buildings do

Fifth and sixth class students of Gurteen National School on a visit to Dail Eireann with Albert Dolan T.D., principal Seamus Walsh and teacher Lisa Dempsey.

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Athenry Agricultural Show 2026

The Athenry Agricultural Show Society will hold its annual show on Sunday, 24th May 2026, at the Teagasc Mellows Campus, just outside Athenry. This year marks the show’s 137th year, making it one of the longest-running events in the locality. Preparations are currently well underway for this years show. The committee is very much looking forward to show day and are working diligently to ensure that it will be another successful and enjoyable day. As always, there will be a wide and varied programme of classes in categories such as Showjumping, Equine Showing, Sheep & Poultry. This year, the committee have placed particular emphasis on the Home Industries, Arts and Crafts sections with new classes being introduced to encourage even greater participation and creativity. Championships will be contested in many categories and a range of qualifiers for other shows throughout the country will also be available. A full schedule of classes is currently being finalised and will be published shortly. Beyond the competition rings and exhibition tents, there will also be a variety of craft displays and trade stands. A strong focus will also be placed on family entertainment. A wide selection of children’s amusements, games and family entertainment will

be available making it a fun day for all the family. The Show Committee meet regularly in the months leading up to the show and a large number of volunteers play a major role on the day to make it a wonderful community event. New members and volunteers are always most welcome. Further information is available from 087-7838915 or athenryagriculturalshow@gmail.com Former Agricultural Show Committee stalwart, the late Festy Conroy on board a Massey Ferguson before the start of the 2012 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Athenry.

Photo Gallery of past Shows (Photographs by Tuam Herald)

Above - Festy Conroy presents the Sheep Cup Fiona Cannon in 1988. Above left - The 1909 Athenry Show Committee and left sheep judging at Athenry in 1972

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Athenry News & Views

Local Transport Updates – Louis O’Hara T.D.

Athenry is a growing town with in excess of 5000 residents. Many more come here to work, stay and visit our town. Key to the future growth of our town is modern and reliable transport infrastructure. Here are some updates on local transport issues I have been working on: Bus Shortly after the previous bus service ended In September 2024, the National Transport Authority (NTA) announced that a replacement bus service would be established between Athenry and Galway. However, months of delays followed as the NTA pivoted between operators before proposing a re-routing of the Mountbellew (425A) service through Athenry. The NTA recently held a public consultation on these proposals, which closed in January. The plan was widely rejected in submissions due to concerns about reduced capacity, increased journey times, and the risk that some residents would lose their only bus service. Submissions were overwhelmingly in favour of protecting the existing 425A route and establishing a standalone bus service between Athenry and Galway. This has always been the obvious and practical solution. Such a service could also incorporate stops in areas surrounding Athenry town, including Derrydonnell. Athenry has now been without a bus service for 18 months — a situation that reflects staggering incompetence on the part of both the NTA and Government. A consultation report is due this month to outline future plans. I will continue to apply pressure to ensure services are restored as soon as possible. Rail There have been dangerous levels of overcrowding on rail services, particularly at peak times in and out of Galway. There is a clear lack of urgency from Government and Iarnród Éireann in addressing this issue.

because of overcrowding. Ring Road Funding is now in place to

I have been informed that it will be 2027 at the earliest before additional carriages can be provided and before the passing loop at Oranmore is constructed — a development that would allow for more regular services. While these improvements will make a difference, and the restoration of bus services will help, immediate action is required. Some services are operating at breaking point, creating unsafe conditions for passengers. I will continue raising this issue, along with the urgent need to double-track the full Athenry– Galway line to future-proof our network — particularly once the new section of the Western Rail Corridor from Athenry to Claremorris is operational. We must be ambitious when it comes to public transport. No one should feel unsafe on a train

complete the elbow section of the Ring Road at Ballygurraune, with completion targeted for April. Design work is ongoing for the eastern section (Tuam Road to Monivea Road), which will include construction of a new rail bridge to facilitate the road. This section is crucial for removing traffic from the town centre and reducing congestion. Now that there is clarity regarding the future of the rail line, there is no reason this much-needed road project cannot progress in tandem with the new rail line from Athenry to Claremorris. I look forward to seeing meaningful progress on these projects in the months ahead.

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Spring 2026

Athenry Credit Union at sixty

Athenry Credit Union will celebrate 60 years in 2026 — six decades of helping local people look after their money, plan for the future, and feel supported along the way. What started with a small group of neighbours who believed in a simple idea — that a community should have its own fair and trustworthy place to save and borrow — has grown into the strong, member-focused credit union we are today. We’re proud to now serve members across seven branches in Athenry, Ballygar, Birr, Kinvara, Kilkerrin, Menlough and Portumna. Even as we’ve grown, we’ve kept the same values at our core: community, fairness, and looking out for one another. Our goal has always been to give members a genuinely personal experience — whether it’s helping with an affordable loan, setting up a current account and debit card, supporting online banking, or offering a safe place to save and learn more about finances. In recent years, we’ve put a big focus on improving our digital services so members can bank easily online or through our mobile app. But we also believe in being there in person when you need a real conversation — “digital when you want it, human when you need it.” As the financial world changes, our promise stays the same: we’ll continue to offer reliable, modern, community-based financial services, and keep improving them as we head into our 60th year and beyond. Experience the benefits for yourself and become a member today. Visit www.athenrycu.ie.

An Teach Spraoi Naionra

An Teach Spraoi Naionra is an Irish language preschool where young children learn and play through Gaeilge. It provides a warm nurturing environment that encourages early language development through play, songs, stories, games and social interaction. The children attending build confidence and a natural connection to the irish language. All are welcome. Failte do gach duine. Call in and meet our wonderful Muinteoirs on Friday March 20th for our open hour at 1.30pm. (H65WD54) For further information please contact: Geraldine Turley, Manager. 087-1190447

Ár seo Nollaig - Willie Wonka

Cárta speiaialta ag dul abhaile

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Athenry News & Views

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Available now at O’Flaherty’s Pharmacy, Athenry. Proudly caring for our community’s health and beauty. Visit us at O’Flaherty’s Pharmacy, Athenry for a personalised shade matching and friendly expert advice.

Spring 2026

There is always a special sense of pride when local talent finds its way onto the national and international stage. This year, that pride belongs to Athenry’s own writer and director, Adam Flannelly, whose film Transit is making waves on the Irish film circuit. Transit recently premiered at the Dublin International Film Festival 2026, an important platform for emerging filmmakers and new Irish cinema. The film’s journey is only just beginning, having also been selected for screening at both the First Cut Film Festival 2026 and the Fastnet Film Festival 2026—two highly regarded festivals that celebrate independent filmmaking and rising creative voices. For those who haven’t yet had the chance to see it on the festival circuit, Transit is now available to watch on the RTÉ Player as part of the “Fresh Scenes 2026” series, giving audiences across the country an opportunity to experience this compelling piece of storytelling. What makes the film particularly special for us locally is that a scene was filmed right here in O’Flaherty’s Pharmacy. In a wonderful show of community spirit, our pharmacist even opened the pharmacy on a bank holiday to facilitate the filming. It was a small gesture that reflects the supportive nature of our town—people coming together to help bring a creative vision to life. Moments like these remind us how local businesses and communities often play quiet but meaningful roles in the arts. Seeing a familiar setting on screen is a thrill in itself, but it also highlights how places we know so well can become part of a wider story. We congratulate Adam Flannelly on the success of Transit so far and look forward to seeing where the film’s journey leads next. It is inspiring to see local creativity gaining recognition, and it serves as a reminder that great stories—and great filmmakers— can come from anywhere. If you get the chance, be sure to watch Transit on the RTÉ Player. You might just recognise a familiar spot. Local Pride on the Big Screen

By: Grainne O’Flahery

Adam came back to the pharmacy to tell us of the films success - in the photo left to right Sandra, Gráinne, Adam, Joan and Kudzai

Simple Tips for Healthy Skin

Local Beauty Expert Joan from Clarins O’Flaherty’s Pharmacy, Athenry shares Simple Tips for Healthy Skin. With the change in season many people find their skin feeling is dry, dull or sensitive after the long winter months. Indoor heating, colder weather and environmental stress can all affect the skin, leaving it in need of a refresh. Joan says that a few simple adjustments to a daily routine can help restore healthy, glowing skin for spring. “People often think they need lots of products, but in reality a simple routine done consistently can make the biggest difference,” she explained. Start with a gentle cleanse such as the Clarins Velvet Cleansing Milk from €32 which helps remove makeup and daily impurities while leaving the skin feeling soft and comfortable. To revive dull winter skin, exfoliating once or twice a week is recommended. The Clarins Comfort Scrub €33.50 gently removes dead skin cells, helping to smooth and brighten the complexion. Hydration is also essential for healthy skin. The Clarins Hydra‑Essentiel Hydrating Bi‑Phase Serum €58 followed by a moisturiser from the Clarins Hydra‑Essentiel Range €48 helps restore moisture and keep skin feeling fresh and balanced throughout the day. Even in Ireland’s climate, sun protection is important. Applying Clarins UV Plus Anti‑Pollution SPF 50 €45 daily helps protect the skin from UV rays and environmental pollution. For a personalised skincare consultation please feel free to call into Joan at the Clarins counter, O’Flahertys Pharmacy Athenry.

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Athenry News & Views

East Galway Leading the Way for European Slow Tourism

A growing movement across Europe is redefining travel by prioritising meaning over speed, and East Galway is at the heart of this transformation. Through the Interreg Europe Project Slowdown, Galway County Council and the BIA Innovator Campus are collaborating with eight other European regions to improve regional policies that support Slow Tourism. This approach focuses on fostering deeper connections with our local culture, people, and landscape while ensuring sustainable economic growth for The foundation for our region’s policy improvement idea was strengthened by interregional knowledge exchanges visits, most notably a five-day visit to Sibiu, Romania, in June 2025. The Galway delegation was inspired by Sibiu’s ‘Local Gastronomy Points’, a model of small-scale catering where rural families serve traditional dishes directly from their private kitchens under simplified regulations. A key takeaway from this exchange was that people are the heart of slow tourism. Whether it is a storyteller, a guide, or a local baker, the authentic passion and pride of residents create the most lasting impressions on visitors. The Galway region is now exploring how to adapt this model to East Galway to empower local food producers and share our unique culinary heritage. Galway in the International Spotlight In September 2025, our region took the world stage as the Galway region hosted the 4th Interregional Thematic Workshop (ITW4). Our European guests were deeply impressed by the region’s seamless integration our rural communities. Learning from Europe: The Sibiu Inspiration

of sustainability, high-quality craftsmanship, and community pride. They praised the region for showcasing innovative businesses, ranging from zero emissions production to artisan confectionery and biodiversity focused farming, that prove sustainable tourism can be both authentic and economically viable. The local hospitality was consistently described as “5 stars,” cementing Galway’s reputation as a premier destination for high quality, reflective travel.

Interregional Thematic Workshop in Athenry

Staff Knowledge Exchange Visit to Sibiu, Romania

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ITW4 visit to Ahascragh Distillery

ITW2 in Murcia, Spain

are embedded into the county’s long-term development strategy. Clodagh Qualter and Emilia Furey are the Project Managers for the BIA Innovator Campus, leading the effort to connect our food producers with these new, sustainable tourism opportunities. By embracing Slow Tourism, we are not just protecting our beautiful landscape; we are building a sustainable future where the unique heritage and people of East Galway can thrive for generations to come. To learn more about the project, visit the official website at https://www.interregeurope.eu/ slowdown

The Galway Hiking Place: A one-year experimental prototype focused on digitising and promoting 10 existing trails in East Galway. This project will test innovative tools like QR codes and a “Hiker’s Passport” to increase trail visibility and encourage visitors to explore our rural landscapes during the off-season, if successfully approved. Leading the Way This project is driven by dedicated local leadership. John Neary serves as the Project Manager for Galway County Council, ensuring that these European lessons

Current Work: Shaping Our Policy

The work is now moving into a critical implementation phase. During a Regional Stakeholder Group meeting on February 19, 2026, several major initiatives for our region were detailed: New Tools for Local Operators: The Galway region is developing a “Signposts Module” and a “Slow Food Tourism Operators Manual”. These resources are designed to help residents and businesses navigate regulations and establish their own slow tourism offerings, such as foraging experiences and niche food trails.

Daffodil Road - Athenry!

Caheroyan Road - March 2026

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Athenry News & Views

SINKING IN 1912 SHOCKS THE WORLD

Athenry passengers Nora Healy and Andy Keane

Among the many Irish emigrants who boarded the Titanic with dreams of a new life was 23-year old Andy Keane from Tobberoe, Athenry—an accomplished hurler, a devoted Gael and a young man whose story still resonates more than a century later. Preparing for a New Start Andy, a farm labourer by trade, had decided to follow his siblings Mary Anne, Ellie and John to Auburndale, Massachusetts. His sister in America sent him the fare—£8 1s 0d and he purchased his third-class ticket (No. 12460) through Mahon Travel Agents at Cross Street, Athenry. The staff at Mahon’s advised him to take a different ship, one offering better conditions for emigrants, but he was determined to sail on the Titanic, the grandest vessel ever built. In the weeks before his departure, Andy is believed to have been working in Ballydehob, Co. Cork. On Thursday, April 11, 1912, he boarded the Titanic at Queenstown carrying items that reflected the life he was leaving behind: a dozen hurleys, his melodion and the treasured county hurling medals he had won with Derrydonnell. Before emigrating, Andy had already made his mark

Andy Keane: The Derrydonnell Hurler who never returned from the Titanic.

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on Galway hurling. He won championship medals Junior in 1909 and Senior in 1911, lining out alongside his brothers Pat and Mike. The Keanes were the backbone of a team remembered for its spirit, strength, and skill. Andy was more than a player, he also served as treasurer of the Club, a testament to his commitment both on and off the field. On November 26, 1911, he took part in Derrydonnell’s victory over Claregalway in Tuam. That day, special trains were laid on to carry supporters from Athenry to the match—a reminder of a time when hurling pride could mobilise whole communities. A Life Lost at Sea Like so many others in steerage, Andy did not survive the sinking of the Titanic. His body was never recovered, or if it was, it was never identified. News of his death cast a deep sadness over Athenry and the GAA community. A memorial Mass drew a large congregation, including county officials, teammates and representatives from clubs across Galway. As one tribute put it, “The departed comrade was dearly loved by his associates in the movement.” Later that year, the Galway County GAA Board presented a portrait of Andy (photographed on opposite page) to his brother Patrick, honouring his dedication to the sport and his place in Andy’s story has continued to inspire. The Tuam Marian Musical Society featured him prominently in their 2010 production Titanic, where his twelve hurleys took centre stage. In 2011, as plans emerged to commemorate Derrydonnell’s championship victories of 1909 and 1911, In her book ‘Derrydonnell” Brid Higgins ensured that Andy, his brothers Pat and Mike would be remembered as central figures in that golden era. His grand-nephew Sean Keane was a member of the next Athenry team to win the County Senior Hurling Championship in 1987. Today, Andy Keane is recalled not only as one of Athenry’s Titanic victims, but as a symbol of youthful ambition, sporting excellence and a life cut short— carrying hurleys, hope and memories of home across the Atlantic. Honora “Nora” Healy: Athenry’s Tragic Survivor of the Titanic The second recorded passenger from Athenry aboard the RMS Titanic was 29-year-old Honora “Nora” Healy, born on February 6, 1883. A native of Greethill, she was one of eight children of Thomas and Mary Healy, growing up alongside her four sisters—Margaret, Mary, Catherine and Ellen—and her two brothers, John and Patrick. Like many young Irish emigrants of the time, Nora set out for a new life in America. She boarded the Titanic at Queenstown as a third-class passenger, travelling on ticket number 370375, purchased for £7 15s. Her Derrydonnell’s proud history. A Legacy That Endures

intended destination was New York City, where she planned to stay with her aunt, Mrs. W. Robinson. But there is no evidence she ever reached her relative’s home. On Lifeboat picked up by Carpathia Nora survived the sinking. She escaped aboard Lifeboat 16 and arrived in New York on April 18, 1912, aboard the rescue ship Carpathia. Fellow passengers recalled her as shy and somewhat fragile even before departure, so much so that locals joked with Athenry man Andy Keane—also on board—that he should “look after Nora,” prompting him, by his own admission, to keep a cautious distance. The trauma of the disaster left deep psychological scars. Upon landing in New York, Nora was admitted to hospital in what was described as a severely nervous and distressed condition—similar to many survivors pulled from the freezing Atlantic during the catastrophe. After several weeks of treatment, she returned to Ireland. Never Recovered from Trauma Back home in Athenry, Nora’s condition failed to improve. She lived for a time with her family in Greethill, but by July 9, 1914, she was admitted to St. Brigid’s Psychiatric Hospital in Ballinasloe. In an era when institutionalisation was often permanent, Nora remained there for the rest of her life. Honora “Nora” Healy died on March 11, 1919, at the age of 36. She was laid to rest in Willmount Cemetery, her remarkable survival overshadowed by a life forever altered by the Titanic tragedy.

Emigrants leaving Scott’s Quay in Cobh..

Lifeboat No 6 similar to the one that rescued Nora Healy and saved her life.

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Athenry News & Views

Aboard The ‘Unsinkable’ By: Nicole Healy - 5th Class 2012

Introduction I chose to do my project on the Titanic because I am deeply interested in the story of this famous ship and I hope to discover new facts about the so-called “unsinkable” liner. My family has always had a strong connection to the Titanic, as my great-grand-aunt, Hanora (“Nora”) Healy, survived in Lifeboat 16. The Titanic was built at the Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast, Ireland, and was designed to compete with Cunard’s great liners Lusitania and Mauretania. Titanic, along with her Olympic-class sisters Olympic and Britannic (originally intended to be named Gigantic), was planned to be among the largest and most luxurious ships ever to sail. Building the Titanic RMS Titanic was built by Harland and Wolff, a shipyard whose reputation for producing major passenger liners was growing rapidly. The ship was commissioned by J. P. Morgan, the powerful figure behind the White Star Line, during an intense commercial rivalry with Britain’s Cunard Line for dominance of the Atlantic crossing. The idea of building a “super-ship” was born during a dinner in 1907 at the Belgravia mansion of Lord Pirrie, the head of Harland and Wolff. He and White Star’s managing director Bruce Ismay discussed Cunard’s modern Lusitania, which was about to compete for speed records and the prestigious Blue Riband. White Star’s response would not be to chase speed alone, but to create something bigger and more luxurious than anything afloat. It took two years to design and build the Titanic, and another year to complete the fit-out, at a cost of $7.5 million (often estimated as hundreds of millions in today’s money). Around 3,000 skilled workers were

involved in her construction. The Titanic was launched in Belfast on 31 May 1911. Huge crowds gathered to watch the event, with thousands paying for the best vantage points and hundreds of invited guests and dignitaries present. The following year was spent finishing the ship and Replica of the White Star Line ticket used by passengers boarding the Titanic at Queenstown (Cobh) Titanic completed her sea trials on 2 April 1912, passed the one-day tests, and sailed to Southampton, where she was handed over to the White Star Line. On 10 April 1912, she began her maiden voyage. Titanic left Southampton, stopped at Cherbourg in France to collect additional passengers, and then sailed to Queenstown (now Cobh), Co. Cork, arriving on the morning of 11 April. By early afternoon she had taken on her final passengers and headed out into the Atlantic with 1,317 passengers aboard (with crew bringing the overall total higher). preparing her for sea trials. Sea Trials and Departure

Passengers waiting at the Pier in Queenstown (Cobh) before boarding the Titanic. First Class passengers only were allowed upstairs - Andy Keane and Nora Healy would be in the crowd.

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TITANIC MENUS

Third Class Dining Room

First Class Dining Room

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Athenry News & Views

Luxury and Technology on Board Titanic’s design was intended to represent comfort and opulence: A telephone system, a lending library, and large barber facilities First-class amenities including a swimming pool, gymnasium, squash court, Turkish bath, electric bath, and the Veranda Café Rich interiors with ornate wood panelling, expensive furnishings, and decorative details in first class More practical—but still impressive—third-class spaces, with pine panelling and teak furniture Technological features such as electric lifts (three in first class and one in second), ship-wide electric lighting, and Marconi wireless sets operated by two radio staff working shifts First-class passengers paid heavily for these comforts. The most expensive one-way transatlantic passage was £870. One of the most celebrated features was the Grand Staircase, crowned by wrought ironwork and a glass dome, with polished oak panelling and gilt balustrades. Even the clock on the landing required careful fitting and expert attention. Passengers: First Class First class included aristocracy, social figures, and wealthy families—names such as the Countess of Rothes, Sir Cosmo Duff-Gordon, the Astors, Guggenheim, and others. Fares varied depending on accommodation, from roughly £60 to £260 for many suites, with the most luxurious options costing far more. Second Class Second class was often made up of people who had achieved comfort through work: teachers, clerks, tradespeople, and skilled workers. Fares generally ranged from about £13 to £79. Third Class Third class was largely made up of families emigrating to the United States from Ireland, Sweden, Belgium, England, and elsewhere. Many had sold possessions to afford passage, hoping to join relatives already settled in cities such as Philadelphia or Chicago. A typical ticket cost around £7, while family tickets could range from £25 to £40. Nora Healy, from Greethill, Athenry, was 29 years old at the time and paid £7.15 for her third-class ticket to New York. After surviving and being treated in hospital in New York, she returned to Ireland. Her experience left her deeply traumatised, and she later died in the mental institution in Ballinasloe on 11 March 1919. Maiden Voyage: Early Incidents and Famous As Titanic pulled away from Southampton, her wake caused the nearby liner SS New York to break from its moorings and drift dangerously close—an incident

that delayed departure by about half an hour. Among the prominent passengers in first class were John Jacob Astor IV and his wife, Benjamin Guggenheim, Isidor and Ida Straus, Margaret “Molly” Brown, and many other well-known figures of the era. White Star’s managing director J. Bruce Ismay was also aboard, as was the ship’s designer Thomas Andrews, travelling to observe the ship’s performance. The Ice Warnings and Collision On the night of Sunday, 14 April 1912, conditions were calm, clear, and cold. The sea was exceptionally flat, and the moon was not visible. Ice warnings had been received in the days before, and a slightly more southerly course had been plotted. At 11:40 pm, lookouts spotted an iceberg directly ahead. The alarm was raised and a rapid turn was ordered, but the ship struck the iceberg about 37 seconds later. The iceberg scraped along the starboard side, damaging the hull over a long section and opening multiple compartments to the sea. Titanic was designed to remain afloat with up to four compartments flooded; this collision breached more than that. Watertight doors were closed immediately, but flooding progressed quickly. Thomas Andrews’ inspection made the reality clear: Titanic would sink. Lifeboats and Distress Calls Lifeboats were ordered to be readied, and distress signals were transmitted. Titanic carried 20 lifeboats with capacity for 1,178 people—not enough for everyone on board. At the time, regulations based lifeboat requirements on tonnage rather than passenger numbers. Many passengers were reluctant to leave what appeared to be a stable ship. Numerous third-class passengers also struggled to reach the boat deck due to unfamiliar layouts and barriers. As a result, several lifeboats were launched partially empty in the early stages. Wireless operators transmitted distress calls including CQD and the newer SOS signal. Ships received the messages, but most were too far away to arrive in time. The nearest ship to respond effectively was Carpathia, about 58 miles away. Final Minutes and Rescue By 2:10 am, the stern rose visibly out of the water. The ship’s lights finally failed, and Titanic broke apart before the stern section sank shortly after 2:20 am. Only a small number of lifeboats returned to pick up people from the water, partly due to fear of being swamped. Many more perished in the freezing Atlantic. Carpathia arrived around 4:10 am and began rescuing survivors. By 8:30 am, the last lifeboat was recovered, and Carpathia left the area bound for New York.

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