Inside this week's Westmeath Independent

Here's a look at some of the stories you'll find in this week's Westmeath Independent, which is out now:

* Tributes hail ex-Minister’s 'true courage and integrity’

* Monksland Service Station sells winning EuroDreams lotto ticket

* ‘If I stay in this tent, I will die’: Man's plight highlights gaps in Westmeath homeless services

* Slavek ‘not just an immigrant’ but part of Irish story

* Irish troops 'accounted for' after coming under attack in Lebanon

* Athlone mother says her child is being failed by health service

* Dun na Sí Christmas event photos

* St Joseph's FC stress need for new westside sport facilities

* The Strand seating now to be restored ‘early in 2026’

* Local sports star speaks about living with epilepsy

* Connaught Street group hits out at lack of local authority support

* Ukrainian artists collaborate for Moate exhibition

* 'A whirlwind year of recognition' for local artist Carmel Rooney

* Athlone taxi drivers stage protest over Uber’s new fixed-fare policy

AND IN SPORT:

* Tubberclair chase Leinster glory: four-page preview on Leinster final with Sallins

* Athlone athlete prepares for Ironman challenge on the world stage

* Marist College advance to Leinster quarter-finals

* Castledaly’s Ally wins gold, silver and bronze medals

* Moate CS senior ladies book place in decider

* Revenue settlement setback for Westmeath GAA

* Garrycastle minor ladies denied by St Loman's in county final