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Journal The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
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Contents The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
04-05 A Warm Welcome
52-55 50 Years in the making - Taghmon ICA
06-09 Taghmon Action Group
56-57 A Real Son of Taghmon
10-11
Teach Spraoí
58-59 Come Fly With Me
12-13
Friends of the Earth
60-64 Dramatic Times in Camross
14-15
Cúchulainn’s Sons
65-65 The Sprockets
16-18
Pride of the Parish
66-67 Community Gains
19-21
Tír na nÓg
68-69 Keep on Running
22-23 The Stick of Ash
70-71 Marathon Man
24-25 A Woman’s Heart - Camross ICA
72-73 St Patrick’s Day
26-27 The Village
74-75 Rose of the Summer
28-31 A Boy’s Christmas in Taghmon
76-77 Passion Players
32-33 Oh Holy Night!
78-80 Why We Love Caroreigh
34-37 Don’t Stop Believing
81-83 Staying the Course
38-41 St Fintan’s National School
84-85 Ceol agus Craic
42-46 A Resourceful Community - FRC
86-87 Youth Focus
47-47 The Art of Understanding
88-89 A Vintage Year
48-49 Age of Opportunity
90-91 A Matter of Pride
50-51 Contrasting Times
92-115 Sponsors & Adverts
Publishers Taghmon Action Group with O Madóig Publishing Editorial Team Mairead Maddock, Rita Samuel, Anne Lynch, David Hayes Accounts Deirdre Howlin Interns: Elliott Samuel and Rachel Howlin TAG Board John Waters, Pat Codd, May Buttimer, Betty Fox, Brendan Doyle, Hazel Southam, Wendy O’Brien
Taghmon Action Group (TAG) Coolateggart Taghmon, Wexford 00 353 (0) 53 9134997 Editorial Contributions taghmonaction@gmail.com Advertising accounts@taghmonaction.ie
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
03
• Sunset on a Winter’s over Taghmon © Bev Church StauntonClydach • Intro quote by Tom Williams • St. Vincent de PaulDay window in St. Benedicts 04
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
A warm welcome ‘You can travel west to Galway or north to Donegal, But near the old Forth Mountain there’s a place to beat them all
Welcome to the first issue of the Taghmon
in turn urge everyone to continue to support
Parish Journal. It is our hope that with your
these local businesses when possible.
help and support we will produce an
We hope you can appreciate that the first
annual publication to record and celebrate
issue of any publication begins from a
the achievements of the local community and
standing start. We have tried to include content
all it’s people. To reinforce that shared identity
that speaks to all generations and members of
and sense of place passed down through
the community.
the generations.
There may be stories that you feel should
They say a community can be judged by the
have been included and we welcome all your
strength of its institutions and in this respect
submissions for next year’s publication. Thank
Taghmon has been blessed. Throughout the
you for buying this Journal and we hope you
pages of this Journal are accounts of these
will get behind it in the years to come - it’s
groups their endeavours and creativity.
history in the making. All money raised goes
We remember people now sadly passed and
back into the Parish of Taghmon.
their legacies ready to be taken on by future generations. It is a collection of individul stories with a common theme of a community tightly bound together. With “The Gathering” taking place next year a warm welcome will be given to you should you choose to pay a visit to Taghmon at any time. Our Parish has a wealth of amenities worthy of exploration. A big thank you to all the local companies who took an advert in or sponsored this Journal. Without your support this publication would not have happened and we
• Landmarks of Taghmon by Annmarie Nolan
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
05
Taghmon action group “If the spirit of Taghmon could be bottled it would solve all of Ireland’s problems”
• Taghmon Action Group & Teach Sproai offices • Tag Team and courses run for local community capturing the spirit of Taghmon “The ultimate objective is to work together,
services it facilitates. FÁS CE workers, are re-
in a spirit of co-operation to achieve
sponsible for running the TAG office, staffing
outcomes which will better people’s lives
the Thrift Shop and Teach Spraoí and keeping
in the parish of Taghmon
the village of Taghmon clean, weed free and
2012 sees Taghmon Action Group celebrate
looking good. They are responsible for car-
10 years in Taghmon. During this time TAG
rying out projects such as painting of the
has had many achievements and has grown
ball alley. This community awareness will be
from strength to strength. What better way to
expanded through the formation of Taghmon
mark this milestone than by producing a
Amenity Group.
Parish Journal celebrating the activity,
2008 saw the opening of Teach Spraoi
creativity and achievements of the groups
Childcare, a wonderful place for the children
and people of Taghmon and in doing so
of Taghmon to learn and grow. Teach Spraoi
demonstrating the community spirit alive
were awarded the Green Flag in 2012 and in
and well in Taghmon.
doing so became the first pre school in Ireland
The introduction of the FAS Community Employment Scheme to Taghmon in
to achieve this. 2008 was also the year Taghmon welcomed
2002 was an important step and has enabled
arrival of Family Resource Centre. This group
TAG to smooth the progress of groups and
is an integral part of the Taghmon Commu-
06
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
nity and continues to flourish and grow as can be seen later in this journal. The completion of the TAG offices in 2010 marked the transition from Joseph St to Meitheal Munna. These offices house the TAG office and FÁS Office along with Training rooms. Meitheal Munna was officially opened in 2011 by President McAleese. It was a wonderful and proud moment for TAG and the people of Taghmon to have the President of Ireland visit TAG office and witness a community in action. As Mary McAleese said “if the spirit of Taghmon could be bottled it would solve all of Ireland’s problems”. The aim of this Journal is to embody this Taghmon Spirit. 2013 will be another eventful and exciting year for TAG with the completion of the Education and Training Centre, it is planned to run more training courses and a wider range of activities. The annual 10k run which has been a very successful event over the last number of year will be held on the May Bank Holiday and will link in with the Gathering event. The Gathering The Gathering Ireland 2013 springs into life
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
07
in dazzling style at the New Year’s Eve Festival
The Gathering website (www.TheGathering-
in Dublin and will be rejoiced throughout
Ireland.com).
2013 by gatherings of people at all premier
If you wish to vist our Parish you will sure
festivals. Anyone who loves Ireland or has a
of a warm welcome with plenty to see and do.
link to Ireland is invited to attend events. It is
Optimize your visit with a stay at one of our
hoped to be the biggest tourism initiative ever
local hostelries where you can relax after tak-
organised in Ireland. It was launched by the
ing in a game at the GAA pitch or touring the
Taoiseach, Tánaiste and Minister for Tourism
historical sites and landmarks in the area, of
in May 2012 and is supported by Fáilte Ireland
which there is an abundance. Enjoy a choice
and Tourism Ireland. It will be an opportunity
of top quality food offered and for the craic
for us all to play a part in helping to stimulate
and rehydration a long, cool drink or two at
local business and a welcome reason to host
any one of a choice of bars. Wherever you go
parties and have fun.
a good experience will be savoured by all.
As a contribution to The Gathering 2013,
Taghmon Action Group is not possible
Taghmon Action Group will be holding their
without the support of the local community,
Annual 10k Run on the May Bank Holiday
the many volunteers who have contributed their
weekend. The race has been growing in popu-
time and energy and of course the members
larity each year, with last year being a resound-
of the Taghmon Action Board over the years.
ing success. The event will be promoted on
Special thanks to you all and to our sponsors, Fas, Wexford Local Development etc. May TAG continue to grow and evolve over the next 10 years. Enjoy this journal and take a trip to through the village and parish of Taghmon through the events and happenings to the people of Taghmon and parish. The Gathering 2013 will be a yearlong series of events. It will be a time when Irish ancestors are invited home to gatherings in villages, towns and cities, from all over the world. There are over 70 million people worldwide with a claim to Irish Ancestry. Hundreds and thousands of friends and family members will be able to take part in concerts, a variety of musical events, special sports events and festivals right across the entire country.
08
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
• The Day The President came to town. • “If the spirit of Taghmon could be bottled it would solve all of Ireland’s problems” Mary McAleese • Opposite, Taghmon Castle one of the many historice sights to visit The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
09
Mol an Óige With the support of the community Teach Spraoí continues to grow and develop
• The young children of Taghmon learning and growing together We are three years in operation and
recycling in fun and creative ways. They even
currently have children who attended our
made up their own song about it! They take
first Pre School room attending our
great pride in using the compost and recycling
Afterschool. Children who came to the
bin. This is probably due to the fact that our
Mother and Toddler Group that meets every
Caretaker John Martin ensures the children see
Wednesday in the centre now attend the Pre
what can be grown from our own compost.
School. Children who attended our first
He has planted fruit and vegetables and flowers
Afterschool are now in Secondary School.
with the children.
Teach Spraoi has become an important part
We hope they will carry this respect and
of the lives of the families in Taghmon. We
knowledge of the environment with them
have had a wonderful year this year one of the
forever. They have reduced our waste to landfill
major highlights was being awarded our first
by two thirds. The children raised the Green
Green Flag in May 2012. This was achieved
Flag at their Pre School Graduation in June 2012
by the hard work and dedication of the staff,
which was a culmination of their year’s efforts.
children and parents of the centre.
Teach Spraoi is not just about ensuring the
The children really enjoyed learning about 10
education and happiness and safety of the
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
children in their care, it is about building a better future for the community of Taghmon by ensuring children develop a love of learning which will stay with them their whole lives through. It is about supporting parents who need childcare so they can follow their own personal development and build a better future for their children. Since its opening in September 2009 many parents have developed an interest in Childcare and some are now participating in a Fetac Level 5 Course in Childcare. With the help of the wider community and the continued support of parents it is hoped the Teach Spraoà will continue to grow and develop alongside the children in it’s care. The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
11
• Portraits of Taghmon © Bev Staunton 12
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
Friends of the Earth The flora and fauna that thrive and grow in our local environment
As Taghmon has a unique site structure (very
good crop of apples which makes very
high potash content) this makes it a top area for
good jelly and chutney. This jelly is lovely with
malting barley and Wexford field strawberries.
cold meats. This shrub is best grown against
The strawberries grown in grow bags and bas-
a wall.
kets may be easier to manage and pick and also
Cornus: Dogwood, these are grown for
don’t get as much mould, but the flavour is not
the colour of their stems especially when the
as strong as those grown in the Wexford earth.
leaves are gone in the winter, not suitable for
Shrubs and Trees: Eucalyptus is a
small gardens.
wonderful grower in Wexford. This can be used
Fuchsia: a wonderful shrub to grow in
for it’s lovely oil and also for flower arranging,
Wexford as it loves the mild weather (not the
particularly the younger leaf with its round
best to withstand heavy frost or snow), but cut
shape (older leaves are larger and not so suited
it back in early spring as it will thrive all the
to flower arranging)
better. It has a lovely bell like flower which
Anglea: These are very happy in Taghmon soil as they love potash and not too much lime Camellia: These are wonderful with lovely
bees love. If you have a glasshouse, cold frame or tunnels, geraniums can be put in around Sept/
rose like flowers in a variety of colours and
Oct in time for next year. In Feb or March,
dark green leaves (to keep the leaves dark put
slip these plants and you will have extra for
scrap copper pieces near the roots and water a
summer. These extra plants can be used for
few times a year with copper powder
Taghmon’s Tidy Town efforts by planting in
(available at good garden centres), and must be
pots, tubs and baskets. When planting
in a sheltered area as frost will kill the
bedding plants, plant a little extra with the
flowers or cover the early varieties.
Tidy Towns competition in mind and make
Chaenomeles: Japonica, various colours but the dark seems to be the best; it also has a
Taghmon a place to be proud of. Henry Bateman
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
13
CÚchulainn’s Sons The legacies of legends passed on to future generations
2012 saw the passing of three great Gaels
When Des retired from play he became very
from Taghmon Camross Club, namely Des
involved with under age teams in the parish
Walsh, Andy Doyle and Tomas Williams.
and passed on his skills and knowledge.
In 1953 and 1954, Des and Andy played
Des’ son Derek, following in his father’s
together on back-to-back successful Junior
footsteps played in an U16 District Final and
and Senior Football Teams with St Munn’s.
scored four goals against Adamstown.
Des’ father, Jim “The Baker” was also on
Andy Doyle is a name synonymous with
these teams, a unique achievement for a father
Taghmon Camross GAA Club, though not
and son to win senior titles on the same team.
a native Taghmon man, his heart was always
14
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
with any team he played with. Andy excelled
achieved, much of which has been recorded
in both hurling and football and won many
in picture and print. Their energy, enthusiasm,
medals representing his club, county and
commitment and spirit brought our club to
province. One of Andy’s greatest
the forefront of the GAA in County Wexford.
achievements on the pitch was scoring four
It is because of men like these, that we have
goals in hurling against Kilkenny in a Leinster
such wonderful facilities in Taghmon/Camross
Semi Final in 1961.
which are the envy of many GAA Clubs in
When Andy retired from playing he con-
the county. The pride that these three men
tinue to be involved with the club in both
showed in their club and jersey and parish will
coaching and administration roles. He was
continue to be a great example to all of us.
also involved as a selector on a county football
Little did they think, as young men togging
team in the mid 1970s. He was a founder
off in ditches and behind bushes that one day
member of Taghmon Community Centre and
through their effort and commitment that
played a prominent role in its development.
they would hand on to future generations
Tom Williams played underage with
a club and facilities of which we can all be
Taghmon Camross and as a steadfast
proud. They have proved that nothing is
supporter; he travelled all over the county
impossible and with hard work and effort
following his beloved team. He went onto
every dream can come true. To quote Andy,
become a manger of Taghmon Camross
“I hardly had an arse in my breeches, and
Junior Hurling Team. In 1982 under his
ended up playing in Croke Park”.
guidance they won the Ross District Title,
Our community will always be indebted to
something not achieved for the previous nine-
them for the contribution they made to our
teen years. The Wexford Hurling Team of the
parish and we thank them most sincerely.
1950s captured his imagination, and he wrote
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a nanamacha dilse.
the great Wexford GAA song, “Cúchulainn’s Son”, in honour of one of the all-time greats of Wexford hurling. He was also a founder member of Taghmon Community Centre which is now part of the Taghmon/Camross GAA Facilities. These men will be sadly missed. However, their legacy will live on through what they The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
15
pride of the parish Great success for the Taghmon/Camross Ladies Gaelic Football teams
• Taghmon/Camross Minor County Champions 2012
• Taghmon/Camross U12 County Champions 2012 16
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
Ladies Football continues to go from strength
Clonard in the County Final on a score of 2-4
to strength in the Taghmon/Camross Club
to Clonard 1-3 This very talented team had a
with over 120 registered members in 2012.
great year and are now County Champions
Great credit must go to all managers, selectors and the teachers in both schools to encourage
U.14 Division 1
the girls of the parish to get involved and play
This panel of players playing in the top
Gaelic Football. Taghmon/Camross Ladies
division playing against some great teams like
Football entered teams in all age groups,
St. Martins, Shelmaliers, Crossabeg/Ballymurn
reaching four County Finals and winning two.
this is the level where all teams should aspire
Kasey Maher and Ailish Sinnott have made
to be playing at, they played 7 games and
history in our club as they have qualified
narrowly missed out on qualifying for the
as new referees.
semi-final.
U.8
U.16 Division 1. Runners up.
These young girls derived great fun and
Our U.16 girls football team had a great year
enjoyment from the skills learned during
playing football at the highest level in Div 1
the year and played a few friendly games.
and competing brilliantly against all the top teams in the county finishing second in their
U.10
group which saw them meeting a brilliant St.
Our girls started out the year struggling for
Martins team in the Co. Final and losing in the
numbers but finished up having a great year
end by 8 points in a game that with a small bit
playing 10 games between league and
of luck could have been much closer.
challenge games winning 5 out of the 10 with 5 under 8s on the panel and these girls
Minor Division 2 : County Champions.
got great experience. The high-
These young ladies had one great year
light for the girls was playing at
winning the first Minor Title for
half time in the County Senior
Taghmon/Camross Club. They
Football Final.
played all their matches with great dedication, skill and
U.12 : Division 2. County
determination, one of the
Champions.
matches of the year was
This panel of players
between Taghmon/
certainly showed great dedication
Camross v Hore-
and determination during 2012, they
swood The girls
played 12 games and won all 12 beating The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
never gave up and 17
• Taghmon/Camross Gaelic Football Mothers team fought till the last whistle ending the game with
level. The girls were beaten in the
a very impressive draw. Taghmon never gave
Semi-final of the Junior A Championship by
up and fought back just as strong ending the
Crossabeg/Ballymurn who went on to win the
game with a score of Taghmon/Camross 6-4
County Final. They then reached the Junior
Horeswood 5-7 and qualified for the County
A Shield Final and just lost out by 2 goals to
Final against Crossabeg/Ballymurn. Taghmon/
HalfwayHouse/Bunclody. The girls played
Camross started this game with great intensity
Division 3 League and had some very com-
and maintained the momentum until the final
petitive games and just missed out on a place
whistle to seek victory on a wet and windy day
in the final.
in Kilmore, winning on a score of 4-04
The Club congratulates all players on their
to 1-04
dedication during 2012. Thanks to all mentors, parents, teachers and
Ladies Team:
all supporters of ladies football
The Ladies team in 2012 had
for attending
of panel of 27 girls which
our games and assisting in our
included some very talented
fundraising ventures.
girls coming up from Minor
Mary Nolan
18
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
TÍr Na nÓg A club with a great history nurturing talent for the future
2012 was a very positive year for Taghmon/
in March, they played 2 teams in the Caulfield
Camross Coiste na nÓg with teams participat-
Hurling League and the County Board Play and
ing, in hurling and football, from Under 8 to
Stay hurling and football games, Volunteer’s All
minor level. The club hopes to get as many
Ireland Football and Hurling blitzes and the
boys and girls in the community playing and
Sarsfield football tournament. Under 9’s also
enjoying the sport, while improving their skills.
entered a team in the Roanmore charity hurling
We are also striving to be successful at all age
blitz where they got to play against teams from
groups with a big emphasis on participation
Kilkenny and Waterford. The lads competed
and fun with the younger age groups.
well in all competitions and enjoyed playing
We had between 25 and 30 boys and girls playing hurling and football, from ages 6 to 8,
against a variety of teams. Under 12’s had upwards of 20 players taking
and commenced training in late February. An
part. Still playing under the GAA Go Games
Under 8 and Under 7 team were entered in
rules, which allows for all players to get equal
the Cushinstown hurling league, and
playing time, regardless of ability, they
the County Board organised Play
competed in the County Board organised
and Stay hurling and football games,
football and hurling leagues. All teams get
which were played on alternative Satur-
to play each other in the league
days over the course of the summer. The
format. The year was completed
Under 8 team also entered the annual
with football and hurling festival
charity hurling blitz in Roanmore in
days where all teams take part.
Waterford, a great day out. The year
Our Under 14’s had a very
was completed with the Hore-
successful year winning the
swood football league. Both teams
Wexford Féile na Gael Division 2
showed a huge improvement over
Hurling Final against Oulart the
the course of the year.
Ballagh, in an absorbing final, in
Our Under 10 team had a
Enniscorthy, which required extra
very busy year with upwards
time to get a winner.
of 27 players playing in this
They competed in Division 2
age group. Starting back
of both hurling and football. The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
19
• Taghmon/Camross U 7’s League Final Winners The football final was won against St John’s
The minors competed in Division 4 of the
Volunteers, in a very exciting game in
hurling and football which is made up of 13
St. Patrick’s Park. They lost out in the semi-final
and 15 a-side teams. A lot of clubs are
of the hurling to a very strong St Anne’s side.
struggling to put 15 players on the field and
Our Under 16’s also had a very success-
this is where the 13 a-side has allowed clubs
ful year. They competed in Division 1 of the
to field teams on their own and play in a very
hurling and Division 2 of the football. They
competitive division. Taghmon competed well
were unlucky not to reach the quarter final
in both the hurling and the football. They got
stages of the hurling, after a slow start in the
to the quarter finals of the football where they
league phase, they got into their stride and just
were beaten after extra time by Kilmore on an
missed out on qualifying. The football went
extended night in Horeswood. In hurling, they
really well. Topping their group, Taghmon
reached the semi-final, going down narrowly
made it all the way to the final against Cross-
to Clongeen. But for the number of wides
abeg-Ballymurn . They won in extra time, in
on the day they would count themselves very
an enthralling game. The quality of football
unlucky not to have won the game.
played, and the scores were a joy to behold. 20
We ran our fundraiser during the month of
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
September for two tickets to the All-Ireland football and an overnight stay in Dublin. It was very well supported and the money raised will be put to good use supporting teams over the coming year. It takes a lot of volunteers to get all these teams on the field. The commitment from
• Taghmon/Camross U14 Roinn 2 Féile Winners
managers and selectors is huge and isn’t taken for granted. A big thank you to parents and grandparents for bringing kids to training and matches, and for the support they gave to the players and managers over the year. We would also like to express our gratitude to the teachers in Taghmon and Caroreigh National Schools for their commitment. For the coming year we hope to continue
• Taghmon/Camross U10 Footballers
to give all boys and girls a chance to play in a safe and rewarding environment. We believe the club has a lot to offer the community with facilitates that are second to none, and a structure that allows players to grow and improve. But, above all, it is about enjoyment and making friends, whether you are a player, manager or supporter. We have plans to update our website over the coming year, to keep our members
• Taghmon/Camross U8 Hurling Team
informed of training, matches and any upcoming social events. We will always welcome any help from any new or existing members, an hour or two here or there makes a huge difference. You will get huge rewards from being part of progressive and welcoming club.
• Taghmon/Camross U16 Division 2 Winners The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
21
the stick of Ash Our girls show real style and dash in a golden era for Wexford camogie
U8 and U10: This year both age groups
turnout through the year; they participated in
trained together due to numbers, all the girls
the camogie league, winning all games up until
enjoying ‘the craic’. There were organised
the final where they came up against a strong
blitzes for the U10’s and a mini league. All
Buffers Alley team. Well done to all the team
girls improved greatly on their skills. We hope
and keep practising over the winter months!
to have more organised matches for the coming year for our blossoming U8 team! Many
U14: A massive well done to the girls on this
thanks to Deirdre, Sarah, Gemma and Carol
camogie team as numbers were always
for their time and dedication over the year.
going to be a challenge, but the girls displayed great heart, determination and turned out and
U12: Manager Kathleen Banville had a very
played to their best of ability regardless of
busy year, fair play to ya Kathleen!. The girls
full squad or not. Some of the U12 girls made
started training back in April, with good
up the team but it is a big jump from that age
22
The Taghmon and Camross Journal 2012
group. Again well done to the U14 panel.
the league final but were outclassed in the final
U16: Again, numbers were a problem for
in October. The girls have good skill and have
this age group and some of our U14’s were
the potential to win the final next year, putting
included to make up the panel, we are lucky to
in the training. Many thanks to Tony, Owen
have a great bunch of girls who get on great
and Shane who were the only ones to bring
and as usual with these girls the ‘craic’ was
home a cup at the end of the season.
always good but the training hard!
The highlight of the camogie year at county
County stars to look out for are Sarah Banville,
level was the ladies winning the senior title for
Emma Shannon and Annie Stafford all making
third year in a row. Of course Taghmon/Cam-
county panels in the relevant age groups.
ross Camogie Club sent a bus full of noisy
We would like to thank all the parents for
supporters (young and old, thanks to Helen
the support over the year and emphasis to the
and the crew for supervising) to Croke Park
girls to keep practising at home with that hurl!!
to cheer the girls on to victory. All enjoying a
Also to congratulate the Wexford ladies on 3
great day out thanks Wexford ladies!
in a row, who knows we might have a county medal in Taghmon in the future.
The committee and coaches put in a lot of hard work and time and effort to keep the club going, and a big note of appreciation to
U18: Unfortunately the minor is a knockout
all. All coaches are sent on certified
and as it was early in the season the girls were
training courses to give the best to the players.
only warming up in terms of training, so we
If anyone feels they have anything to offer to
didn’t have many games to attend but the girls
the running of the club all help is much
continued training and making out ladies panel.
appreciated and very welcome.
From this age group we had Carol Kavanagh, Gemma Doran and Sarah Banville go on to train as referees and officiated at some of the underage blitzes during the year, well done girls. Ladies team: We had great commitment at the start of the year and all girls put in the time and effort which got us off to a great start, but between work and college it’s hard to make everything, however, the girls did reach
• Taghmon/Camross GAA facilities
The Taghmon and Camross Journal 2012
23
A woman’s heart Camross ICA reflects on a busy year Camross ICA Guild, which was founded in
The Camross ladies entered in a large
1961, celebrated its 50th Anniversary in
number of competitions during 2012, knit
September 2011 with an Ecumenical Service
and model, table quizzes, short stories, flower
and a big Hooley in Camross Hall. So, with
arranging and ‘Special Occasions Day’ where
the plum pudding just about finished the la-
the theme was recycling, plus they had a shot
dies went straight into action and on the 15th
at almost all of our national competitions.
of January visited the residents of St. Johns
Fundraising was high on our agenda,
Hospital, Enniscorthy and entertained them
members were involved in ‘Fun Run’ for
with songs, dances and recitations. During
Breast Cancer Research, did a 10km walk for
February and March members participated
Hope Centre, and The Women’s Refuge
in patch work classes, sean nós dancing, aqua
benefitted from the Guild’s Annual Ann
aerobics, computer classes and bowling whilst
Power Memorial Walk and a crafts display at
at the same time most members were involved
the Vintage Rally in Rourkes’ Cross.
in the production of The Passion Play.
Members knitted hats, scarves and mittens for the Irish Heart Foundation and just recently walked on Curracloe Beach for Wexford Hospice Homecare. Coffee days were held for Console and Wexford Hospice Homecare, and members are presently involved in the Shoe Box Appeal. The annual tour brought members to Cobh, Fota House and Gardens and the English Market and of course some members engaged in retail therapy in Cork City. Ten members travelled to the ICA
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The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
• Camross ICA and friends Educational College in An Grianán in October and learned the art of Christmas
and community to all present at the event. Guild Members played major roles at
Crafts and some members also participated
events in the ICA marquee at the plough-
in our Federation Craft Day last Easter whilst
ing in Heathpark in September, partaking in
not forgetting our involvement in demon-
workshops, demonstrations and hospitality
strating crafts at Enniscorthy Castle in April.
where the kettle was always on the boil.
Guild meetings are held in Camross Hall
At an Ecumenical Service in November,
on the first Monday of each month, and
which is now an annual event, we remem-
after-meeting activities have ranged from
bered our deceased members and friends,
sean nós dancing, crafts, gardening, bladder
also our family members who have passed
habits, healthy eating and pottery to name
on. We are indebted to Camross Hall
but a few.
Committee who never said ‘no’ to us
The Guild hosts the Senior Citizens Party
regardless of what our requests were during
on last Sunday of November and almost one
2012. We thank all who helped us in any way
hundred guests will enjoy a full Christmas
during the year and we look forward to 2013
dinner cooked by the members and will be
with verve and vigour.
entertained by local artists after the meal.
New members are always welcome to join
The local Gardaí will give valuable
the ranks.
information on crime prevention in the home
Breda Banville. PRO
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25
The Village As you hear the fountain bubbling, when the evening’s work is done, You can drink your pint, in peace of mind in the village of Taghmon.’
My father never hid how proud he was to be a
After he left the bakery in 1990, Dad
Taghmon man. The village where he was born
embarked upon a new, but no less productive
and raised, and to where he returned aged 29 to
chapter of his life. He helped found Taghmon
take over the family bakery business, was never
Historical Society; wrote several books of
far from his thoughts: right up until his passing
sporting, genealogical and historical interest,
on August 18th this year, aged 71.
and continued to compose poems and songs.
He would speak often of his childhood in the village. How he delivered ‘thick crusty loaves’ to the shops; spent long summer days
His 14-year chairmanship of Innovation Wexford created over 800 jobs for Wexford. The memories of my father, and Taghmon,
fishing and playing in ‘The Monichaun’; and
come freely to us all. For my sister Joanne, it
of waking to Christmas presents of cowboy
could be of her singing with him in the old
suits and humming tops.
Scout Hall; for my other sister, Annette, it
He first left Taghmon in 1953, to attend
might be the chats they’d have as he drove her
secondary school at Good Counsel College.
to school each morning; for me, it is of fishing
He worked as a bank official in Waterford and
with him at Modubeg or The Crooked Bridge.
later Dublin, where he became an assistant
My mother will remember many things; her
manager. It was in Dublin that he met my
and my father dressing up as John Lennon
mother, Marie. They married there in the
and Yoko Ono to perform ‘Imagine’ on stage
late ’60s.
in the Community Centre, or of them baking
A six-month bank strike in the summer of 1970 saw my father return to the village, and ultimately take over the running of the bakery.
an emergency supply of bread for The Talbot Hotel, one Christmas Eve in the ’70s. My father was proud of Taghmon, and
Over the next 20 years, under his leadership, it
Taghmon was proud of him. He left the
became one of the largest and most successful
village for a second time upon his retirement
bakeries in the country. This, and the profile
from the bakery. But truth be told, he never
and employment it brought to the village,
left it behind, and in many ways he never will.
made him immensely proud.
David Williams
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The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
27
A Young Boy’s Christmas in Taghmon The gift of Christmas past from Tom Willians
In the days leading up to Christmas we
or two they were ready for wrapping and
wrapped thousands of bracks and even more
the torture began all over again. The Baker
of Patsy Doyle’s slab cakes. My sister was in
seemed to take great delight at our
charge of the scribbled list. ‘Five hundred for
discomfort. Day after day it continued until
Tommy Murphy’s van, eight hundred for
finally, it was the eve of Christmas.
Jimmy Brady and another six hundred for
The pubs were full as we trudged up the
Phil Kelly’. Some of us stood on orange
Main Street to midnight Mass. Fay Keating,
boxes as our sticky fingers folded the
clad in a dark brown apron, bid us ‘good-
holly-pigmented cellophane paper around the
night’ as he stood in the doorway of his
warm, oven-fresh, barm bracks. The homely
pub. Carefully, we negotiated the cobble-
smell of fresh crusty bread pervaded our
stones outside of O’Donnell’s. The sounds
nostrils. We stood in line, my brothers, my
of laughter and singing echoed across the
sister and I, leaning against the bakehouse
square, competing with the gurgle of icy
table, watching the batches of unwrapped
water that cascaded into the old stone
bracks and slab cakes grow smaller.
fountain. A fleet of bicycles leaned against
Just when we thought that we were nearing
the wall of Joe Kavanagh’s public house. The
the end of our labours, the Baker Walsh, with
voice of the village pessimist, Rob Brerton,
a smiling glance in our direction, beckoned to
could be heard above the raucous din. ‘Go
Paddy Carton. Together, they rolled out the
way our dat bhoy!’ Through the Green
big drawplate oven and unloaded
Gardens we walked, the frozen puddles
another four hundred steaming barm bracks,
cracking beneath our feet. As we passed
knocking them expertly from the steel tins
beneath the dim streetlights our breath was
and unto the trolleys to cool. After an hour
visible on the chilly winter air. Outside the
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The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
chapel, the men stood about with coat
The presbytery door opened and four altar
collars to their ears. Only when the bell tolled
boys, clad in freshly ironed surplices and
the beginning of Mass would these hardy
soutanes, led little Fr. Anglim to the big altar.
types enter the chapel. Inside, a cacophony
The coughing and sneezing died down as the
of coughing and grunting assailed the ears.
little priest began the mass. Only for a
High on the gallery the choir broke into their
minute or two, following the consecration,
first hymn. The sweet tenor voice of Terry
would the throat clearing and wheezing be
Wilson led the singing, accompanied by the
heard again in such volume. In a soft voice
stout hands of Jane Rossiter on the organ.
the little priest intoned, ‘Introibo ad altare
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
29
Dei’. The four young voices answered in
nightrider. After what seemed like ten
unison, ‘Ad deum qui laetificat juventutem
minutes, it was morning.
meam’. Fr. Anglim was not known for his
The Christmas stocking was excitedly
speedy services and it was a good sixty-five
retrieved from the end of the bed and having
minutes before the chapel disgorged its
discarded the usual oranges and chocolate,
congregation into the cold December air
I delved deep into the stocking for the real
of Chapel Street. Handshakes and ‘Happy
prize. To my disappointment, there was no
Christmas’ were freely exchanged on the
cowboy suit – only a gaily painted hum-
steps leading down from the chapel. Jack
ming top. I jumped out of bed and laid the
Fitzgerald shook more hands than anyone
red and yellow top on the bedroom floor. I
else. Guard Foley, resplendent in his
pushed the handle and as it spun faster and
freshly-ironed silver-buckled uniform,
faster, a high pitched hum assailed my ears.
controlled the small number of cars and the
It was a worthy gift from Santa – but it was
pony and traps along the street. Down Cha-
not a cowboy outfit. I really had wanted the
pel Street, through the Green Gardens and
cowboy gear as Terry Gosby and Mossie,
back down along Main Street we skipped, all
down the street, both had resplendent outfits.
the time keeping a careful eye on the night
As soon as it was daylight, I charged next
sky to see if we could catch a glimpse of
door to Cullen’s to show them my booty.
the fabled reindeer. My father always man-
Lettie was sitting by the open fire, blowing
aged to see a couple of them but by the time
the fan. P.J was supping on a mug of tea in
he picked me up and pointed to the starry
between singing a little song and Christy was
expanse, the four legged flyers had invariably
outside polishing his gleaming Dodge hack-
moved on. P.J.Cullen, his brother, Christy and
ney car. ‘Well, what did you get?’ I showed
sister, Lettie, joined us as we strolled down
them the humming top. ‘I thought that you
by Wards and we told them, once again,
were getting a cowboy suit’, said Lettie.
what requests our letters to Santa Claus had
I was near to tears as I remembered what I
contained. I had written for a cowboy suit
had really wanted, but I was determined to
complete with two six-guns. I had seen the
make the best of it and not show too much
outfit in Bridges’ window in Wexford.
disappointment. ‘Santa left a parcel here
Soon we were beneath the bed covers,
for you. He must have forgotten to leave it
having checked the night sky a further nine
in your house’, said P.J with a twinkle in his
or ten times for any sign of the gift-bearing
eye. Then a large brown-papered parcel was
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The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
produced and laid on the kitchen table.
seemed to be as happy as I was. ‘Santa was
Lettie removed the wrapping and opened the
probably so busy that he mixed up the
box. It was a cowboy suit, the same one that
houses’, said Christy. It all seemed very
I had seen in Bridges’ window.
logical and I had no difficulty believing
My heart skipped a beat. I pulled on the
the Cullen’s story.
trousers and the waistcoat, plonked the
It was many years later before I realised the
black hat on my head and finally strapped
truth. Santa really did exist. But he did not
on the big black leather belt that held the
live in Lapland. The real Santa Claus lived in
two holsters and six-guns. A feeling of true
the house next door to ours.
bliss engulfed me. Christy, P.J. and Lettie
Tom Williams
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
31
Oh Holy Night! The birth of the Live Crib in Taghmon Square now a growing Christmas pageant In 2009 a group of men and two women staged
Fortunately members of the Square Committee
a live crib in Taghmon Square on the Saturday
to a man were supportive and only too willing
before Christmas Day.
to help set up the crib but also to take part in
They were accompanied by the Tops Choir.
the enactment. Meadhbh Stafford agreed to
It was received by the people of Taghmon and
play Mary as she would ride the ass side-saddle.
surrounds with great praise and so another
Murt Sidney played the role of Joseph. Lesley
annual happening was born.
Ormonde was the Angel.
Like many a good idea in Ireland, the live crib
What has been unique is that at 2pm a team
was born in a pub (Jacksies), when a number
of workers start erecting the crib for a show
of men were enjoying a drink. I was given the
taking place at 8pm and by some miracle the
unenviable task of creating a way to stage what
Square is back to normal by 10pm. No praise
turned out to be difficult show to perform.
is great enough to this group who, when the
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The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
• No praise is great enough for the cast and crew of The Taghmon Village Live Crib. Pictures by Ger Hore crib and lighting tower were erected got ready
clothing. One can recall Martin Dunne and
to play the many parts in the pageant.
John Murphy as Roman Soldiers. We had snow
Sheep have been provided by Michael Barron and the cow courtesy of Karl Winters.
in 2010 instead of sand and all had frostbite! There were shepherds, three wise men,
Val Whitty brought goats last year. Maybe we
townsmen and even a civil servant taking the
will have more animals this year.
census. These many roles were played by P.J.
The late Andy Doyle was one of the most
Williams, Michael Keane, Noel Wall, Paul
ardent supporters and he always manned the
Kehoe, Pat Monaghan, Tom McGrath, Cormac
door Alice Brady’s Inn to turn away Joseph and
Dunleavy, Pat Callaghan, Paul Hannon, James
Mary. He will be greatly missed this year.
Whitty, Kevin Sommers and Paddy McCroy.
Rest in peace Andy.
Amplification provided by Tony Ward with
Costumes were in the main creations of the
soup supplied by Pauline Stafford.
characters themselves with some help from
Plans are afoot for this year’s pageant and it
Peggy Doyle, who arrived with her bags of
is hoped to present it on December 22nd. The
costumes. The end result was very effective
cast and crew would like a massive turn out for
and one was able to imagine what it was like in
what is becoming one of the highlights in the
Bethlehem all those years ago. The big prob-
Taghmon Calendar of Events.
lem was the cold as we were wearing very light
Michael Stafford
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
33
Don’t Stop believing Some will win, some will lose, some were born to sing the blues
• A memorable scene from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
The foundation for the Taghmon Tops Group
members however, some have sadly departed
began with the ‘Tops of the Parish’ ranging
but their memories and spirits remain within
over three decades involving 4-5 groups from
the group.
the parish, today these parishes combine to form one group ‘Taghmon Tops Group’. Members from the ‘Tops of the Parish’ days still contribute to the Taghmon Tops Group
The group have performed over the past eleven years in the South East Competition, where we have been finalists eight times and have won the Competition three times.
today whether it’s performing on stage, helping out as part of the crew or supporting us
Pride of Place
night after night in the audience.
As a variety group funded by the generosity
The revival of Tops came with the introduc-
of our local community, we proudly enrol a
tion of the South East Tops in 2001 and it
cast and crew of 130 members of all ages.
was from there the Taghmon Tops Group was
Our group exhibits a variety of fantastic talent
formed. Founding members of the Group
ranging from singing, dancing, playing music,
have endured the Tops rollercoasters year after
dress-making, sewing and carpentry,
year and are still with us today as active cast
including tea making to mention but a few. All
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The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
• Ruth Donegan putting in a star performance The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
35
of these talents combine each year to repre-
Best Female Singer – Rosemary Furlong
sent Pride in Our Place on stage in Taghmon
Best Comedy Item – Littlewoods Part 1
at the South East Tops Competition.
– Mike Banville & Pat Callaghan Adjudicators Award – Jeanette Kelly
Past Producers and Directors
Well done to you all on your individual awards
In 2001 when tops first began, the production
and congratulations to all the production,
consisted of three scenes, first scene performed
cast and crew on a fantastic show and being
by 6th class from Taghmon National School,
crowned winners of South East Tops 2011.
second scene produced by Bernie Mc Dermot was ‘Les Mis’ and third scene produced by
South East Tops Awards 2012
Eamon Byrne and Barbara Walsh was ‘The
Runners up
Tinker’s Daughter’.
Best Heritage – The Lock Out
Over the years others producers include;
Best Original Scene – Evita
Jackie Whelan, Vicky Barron
Kids Scene
Paul Doyle, Catherine (Biddy) Walsh
Best Female Singer – Rosemary Furlong
All Ireland Tops Competition 2011
Sponsors
The biggest achievement for the Taghmon
The Taghmon Tops Group would sincerely
Tops Group to date was in 2011, when the
like to thank the community and our sponsors
Group became one of the finalists in the All
for their generosity and support over the years
Ireland Tops Competition and brought our
without whose help and support our group
show to the Olympia Theatre in Dublin.
would not exist. We would also like to say a
During this competition the group also fulfilled its dream by performing in our very own state of the art Opera House in Wexford
special thanks to Taghmon GAA and Camross Hall Committee for the use of their facilities. If anyone would like to join or become part
and not only that but also by performing in
of our cast, crew or helpers no matter what
the Olympia Theatre where so many of our
your talent please contact the Tops phone on
heroes and inspirations have stood before us.
086 6619258 or become a fan on our facebook
What an experience this was and it will be in
page ‘Taghmon Tops Group’ for news and
the memories or our cast, crew and kids for a
updates throughout the year.
long time. To all our cast, crew, helpers and to our cast South East Tops Awards 2011
children who are our superstars of tomorrow.
Best Show
“Don’t stop believing because dreams really do
Best Male Singer – Daniel Furlong
come true”
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The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
37
Taghmon National school St. Fintan’s NS inspiring the next generation of artists, poets and storytellers
Autumn
In the Scary House
The Leaves blowing in the air
It was a dark and a spooky night when I heard
All red, orange and brown.
noises like the screams of banshees, ghosts
Crunching under peoples feet
and scary black monsters. There were witches
Swaying along the ground.
everywhere and I was in a haunted house and the rooms were pitch dark until a vampire rose
The plums are purple and plump
from its coffin. Outside I could hear zombies,
The apples are oozing with juice.
people and the rustling trees. I asked mammy
The pears are drooping heavily
what was going on. Maybe a monsters funeral
As the blackberries are ready to eat
she said. I looked out the window, there was a scary face. It disappeared.
The squirrel starts to gather
Cillian Condard
All their precious nuts As winter is going to come
Autumn’s End
This is autumn’s end
The crunchy leaves sway as they fall
by Michael Foley 4th Class
And no more will the small drowsy squirrel crawl
The Olympics
The plump plums are on their trees
The Olympics are exciting
They will fall off with the next breeze.
We always have some fun
The red, russet, rusty leaves all there in a pile
For all the sports that are outside We all pray for sun
And no more will the insects smile. Autumn is at its end, time for winter take over
We do well in boxing
by Aisling Kelly 4th Class
Katie won our gold We all remember where we were That moment couldn’t be sold
Opposite: A montage of photos and pictures
by Anna Eustace
by the children of Taghmon National School
38
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
39
• Junior Infants with their teacher Ms Hore
• Sixth Class of 2012 with Fr Sean Gorman and teacher Mrs Doyle 40
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
Our account of Mr Dan O’Flaherty’s visit
Mairéad Bennett by David Kelly
to our Classroom by David Kelly
Where did you go to school? Taghmon National School
Today a visitor came into our school. It was our
How did you get to school?
ex Principal Mr Dan O’Flaherty. He told us
Walked
about the history of our school. The original
Can you tell me about your teachers?
school was built in around 1942. There were
Miss Bennett they called “the hen” because she
about 100 people in it. There were 3 teachers in
hopped on and off her bicycle like a hen.
the school. He told us where he went to school
What equipment did you have?
in Fahamore Co. Kerry. He went to a 2 teacher
Ink well, Ink pen and nib
school. One of the teachers was his uncle, the
How many children in each class?
other the wife of a local garda. She was tough.
About 30
The punishments were a slap of a strap, ruler
What heating was there?
or stick. For heat they had an open fire and
Open fire and bring your own sticks
they had to bring in turf for it. The equipment
What type of subjects was there?
they had was a chalk and slate and when they
Irish, English, Maths, Religion, Sewing, Knit-
were older they had an ink pen and ink well.
ting, History and Geography
He also used blotting paper. What my Granny did at school Elsie Donnelly by Shania Where did you go to School? I went to school in Taghmon National School How did you get to school? I walked to school Can you tell me something about your teachers? Nice and helpful her favourite was Ms Fayer What subjects did you do? Sums, English, Spelling, Religion What equipment did you have? Chalk and slates Did you have a uniform? No we did not The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
41
a Resourceful Community Taghmon Family Resource Centre helping people to help themselves
• Official opening of Taghmon FRC’s Men’s Shed by Olymic Boxing Coach Mr. Billy Walsh A great crowd from the community of
thanked St Vincent de Paul and the Family
Taghmon and from many other Men’s Sheds
Support Agency who provided funding for the
in Wexford were also there to give their sup-
project. Wexford VEC and Dept. of Social
port and to see the projects that the men have
Protection in Wexford were also thanked for
been working on over the last few months.
providing training programmes for the men.
Peter Shermer speaking on behalf of the men
The support of the community in terms of
thanked everyone for coming out to show
donations of equipment and material was also
their support especially Billy and Minister
acknowledged.
Kehoe for taking the time to come and see such a valuable community resource. He also 42
From its humble beginnings in Taghmon Family Resource Centre, the Shed now has its
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
own premises in the industrial park. The men
understanding and equality.
use their considerable skills to complete wood
The Centre is managed by local people from
and metal work projects for the local commu-
the community and they are: Dan O’Flaherty,
nity. They have just started a 12 week wood
Chairman, Rufina Walsh, Secretary Karen
carving course with tutor Paddy Darrigan pro-
O’Brien, PJ Byrne, Kay Winters, Dolly Waters,
vided by Wexford VEC. The Shed is affiliated
Michael Doyle and Peter Shermer
to the Irish Men’s Shed association which is a
The staff is: Mary O’Loughlin, Project
national organisation for all Sheds.
Co-ordinator, Ray O’Brien, Development worker and Bríd Kenny, Administrator.
What is the Men’s Shed? The Community Men’s Shed is an updated ver-
Some of our activities this year included:
sion of the shed in the backyard. If you looked
Counselling Service
inside one you could see anything from wood
This confidential service is now available in
turning and wood carving to welding. You
the Family Resource Centre on Mondays and
might also see both young and older men learn-
Wednesdays for adults and older children.
ing new skills from each other and maybe also
For information or appointment contact Trish
learning something about life from the men
on 087-7719984 or the Family Resource Centre
they are working with.
on 053-9134465 in strictest confidence.
If you are interested in joining the shed or
The service operates on a voluntary basis but
would like to know more contact Ray or Mary
we do ask for a €5 donation per session.
at Taghmon Family resource centre. 053-9134465 “Men don’t talk face to face; they talk shoulder to shoulder” Taghmon Men’s Shed is located in Taghmon Business Park. Opening Times: Tuesday 2pm -5pm Wed 2pm -5pm, Thursday 2pm-5pm About Taghmon FRC Our aim is to bring about positive change in the community through education, inclusion and empowerment by bringing people together. We encourage and promote equal access and opportunities for all through mutual respect, The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
43
• Christmas festivities at the FRC
Wednesday’s Women
Monday Morning Women’s Group
For Women of all ages who are interested in
The group meets between 10am and 12pm in
positive well-being. Activities include:
the centre on Monday mornings, (hence the
Life-skills workshops with Life Coach, Stepha-
name!). Crafts are the main area of interest and
nie Hanley Baird., Yoga, Dancing, Reiki, Beauty,
the group is very informal. New members are
Cookery, Reflexology, etc.
always welcome.
Any woman is welcome to attend on Wednes-
Men’s Breakfast Morning (Friday)
day mornings from 10.30am-12.30pm.
Since its humble beginnings in 2009, there is
Computer Training
now a great group of men coming regularly for
A group completed Word Processing FETAC
a hot breakfast and a chat over a cup of tea.
level 5 and four classes completed Beginners
Any man is welcome to join us so just call in on
Internet and Email training.
a Friday Morning between 9.30 am– 12 noon,
DIY for Women
to see Ray
This course is running successfully at the mo-
Book Club.
ment and is covering all aspects of DIY:
The book club meets once a month and is a
Taps, plugs, fuses, tiling, hinges, shelves, flat
social and informal group.
pack assembly, water pipes, etc.
Contact Ray for further info.
Cookery for Men
GROW Support Group
The learned the basics of eggs, breads, soups,
This group meets on Thursday mornings from
fish, meat dishes, desserts, cakes etc.
10.30am and is facilitated by Maureen from
Woodcarving
GROW. The focus of this group is all about
Classes are under way at the moment every
positive mental health. Contact Mary for
Wednesday down in the shed.
further information or www.grow.ie
44
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
45
• Rocket Programme participants delight with their well deserved certificates ROCKET Programme
The programme also informed participants
It was a day of celebration in Taghmon
of opportunities for further education and
FRC in June as ten participants received
training, re-skilling and employment. Some
certificates for their successful completion of
participants have already moved onto further
the Programme.
studies and/or employment opportunities.
The ROCKET Programme (Re-Skill,
Rufina Walsh from the Project Board of
Opportunities, Confidence, Knowledge,
Management congratulated all those who
Education and Training) was a ten week
completed the programme successfully. She
programme that focused on areas such as:
thanked Anne O’Reilly in the Department
confidence building group work, information
of Social Protection for her support without
giving, one to one support, CV/cover letter
which the programme would not have
writing and interview skills.
been possible.
It was aimed at people who were medium
Please contact us at the Centre for any
to long term unemployed from the commu-
information 053-9134465 or text 089-4449925
nity of Taghmon and surrounding areas.
Check out our website www.taghmonfrc.
The programme was delivered by Janet
ie or ‘Friend’ us on Facebook for the latest
Tumulty from New Links Training Solutions
activities and events.
and was funded by the Department of
We also put weekly notes in the local
Social Protection.
papers and newsletter.
46
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
the art of understanding Taghmon Traveller Women’s Group enhancing the community The group was established in the late 1990’s for women from the Travelling Community living
Museum of Modern Art in Carlow. Recently the group have linked in with the
in Taghmon and surrounding areas. Since its
Traveller Health Programme run by Wexford
foundation the women have undertaken many
Local Development and are supported in
training and educational opportunities, to both
their activities by Nan and Polly the Traveller
enhance their own skills and to enhance their
Community Health Workers. The aim of this
community and have completed FETAC ac-
programme was to promote access and uptake
credited programmes.
of health services within the travelling commu-
An example of one of the modules that
nity. At present the women are learning about
they undertook was visual art, with all the
their health and well-being and cooking some
women producing wonderful pieces of art
healthy options.
work including paintings, painted furniture,
If you are a Traveller woman and interested
decorative milk urns and wooden figurines.
in joining the group, you can contact Nan, Polly
The group are pictured below on an
or Valerie through Wexford Local Develop-
educational trip as part of this course to the
ment in Enniscorthy.
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
47
the age of opportunity St Fintans Day Centre a warm and friendly place to meet
Situated in the Health Centre in Taghmon,
of older people in the community, while
the Day Centre offers senior members of
encouraging independent living within our
our community a social outlet and place to
community.
meet in friendly and warm surroundings. Established in 1994 by a foreward thinking
Opening each Tuesday and Wednesday the services provided by the centre are many and
committee of local volunteers, The Day Care
varied minibus pick up and drop off service
Centre has gone from strength to strength
and the provision of a hot meal are central
and almost twenty years later has success-
to each day.
fully achieved its aim of enhancing the lives 48
Members enjoy Bingo, cards, music, chair
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
exercises, sewing, art and crafts and during
and also by the high esteem in which it is
the summer months many outings and excur-
held within the community of Taghmon,
sions. From watching the seals in Kilmore, to
but its best measure of success can be heard
the waves crashing against the rocks in The
each Tuesday and Wednesday in the laughter
Hook, to tasting handmade chocolate in The
and obvious enjoyment had by each member
Chocolate Factory, a very busy summer was
in attendance. This, in no small way, is thanks
had by our members this year.
to the wonderful volunteers and staff in the
Bealtaine is when the members of the Cen-
centre. Down through the years the Centre
tre proudly display their art and crafts. This
has been run by a combination of a volun-
year at a Bealtaine Festival Day held in the
teer management committee, committed
Oak Tree in Foulksmills we proudly exhib-
and dedicated volunteers who worked in the
ited our years work. Knitting, Landscape and
centre, FÁS employees, and in recent years
Still life paintings, rosary beads and necklaces
Family Resource Centre.
and our Mandella Painting took pride of
The combination of all of these people
place. A framed collage of smaller paintings
from the community of Taghmon are
by all of our members was assembled and
directly responsible for the success of St Fin-
framed by students from The Family Re-
tans Day Centre. Next Year we will celebrate
source Centre.
our 20th Birthday, and there is no doubt the
The success of the Day Centre can certain-
success of The Day Centre is a fine example
ly be measured by the numbers of members
of great community spirit and volunteerism
who attend each Tuesday and Wednesday,
being alive and well in Taghmon.
• St Fintans Day Centre and it’s members go from strength to strength. The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
49
Contrasting Times Times and fashions may change but somethings stay the same
• All Ireland one act, ‘91 Enniskillin, Birthright. Camross Drama Club
• Spring 2010 . 50
Camross Drama Club
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
• 1973 Taghmon/Camross Gaelic Football Team
• 2012 Taghmon/Camross
Celebrity Bainisteoir Gaelic Football Team
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
51
50 years in the making Celebrating the life and times of the Taghmon ICA Guild
• Members of the Taghmon ICA Guild
Dr Lorna Johnston Vice President Wexford
offer friendship, hope, support and leader-
Federation and Kathleen Sinnott ICA
ship for women of all ages. The association
National Organiser presided over the
highlights the needs of women and lobby
inaugural meeting of Taghmon ICA on
various government departments. It was
17th December 1963. Forty two members
agreed from the beginning of the formation
were enrolled. Joan Dier RIP was the first
of the United Irishwomen now known as the
president and meetings were held in the
ICA (Irish Countrywomen’s Association) the
Muíntir na Tíre Hall formerly the Boys
association would be non denominational
National School. Subscription for the year
and non party political.
was six shillings.
During the early years the following cours-
The main object of the association is to 52
es were held: -Jam making; rope making;
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
stools; lamp making; care of the skin; curing
the member who wins the most guild competi-
sheepskin; lumra rug making; glove making;
tions during the year. In November 1993 we
Singer sewing use and slipper making.
won The AIB Guild of the year competition.
The first Christmas party for senior citizens
We have won the Special Occasion
and widows was held in December 1964. The
competition several times. Three of our
guild organised a children’s party in addition
members won National awards for their
to the senior citizens party. A few years’ later
brown bread- the late Bridget Hayes, Mary
summer outings to the sea were started.
Kehoe and Mella Winters. Mella has also
The guilds very first fundraising event was a
won the Raytex competition for her cake icing.
jumble sale held in the cinema hall raising £28.
Two guild members represented Wexford at
The guild became active in drama and the
the national finals of The Make and Model
National Movement to Music competitions
competition. Taghmon Guild felt a great
and won may one act drama festivals. They
sense of pride when Billie O’Donnell, one of
also appeared at the National Concert Hall
our founder members, won the Rehab Hall
and Cork Opera House and in 1989 were
of Fame award.
televised by RTE 1 on Kathleen Watkins Faces and Places.
In 2010 our village took part in The Pride of Place completion and won their category.
The first foreign exchange event was in
As part of this competition our guild held a
the late sixties when the Associated Country
craft exhibition in the Scout Hall and assisted
Women of the World held their Triennial
in the Floral Exhibition in the church. This
Conference in Dublin. After the conference the delegates went on a countrywide tour. Three guild members hosted an African lady each overnight. Those African ladies in their colourful national dresses were very impressed with the local hospitality and entertainment. We have had many exchange visits since and we had very memorable trips including one to Holland (1982) and Northern Ireland (1991 and 2004). The Tom O’Donnell trophy is presented to The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
53
formed part of our celebration of 100 years
which benefit our local community.
of ICA.
Taghmon ICA Guild
The ICA Guild is involved in many charitable projects both locally and nationally. The members collect items for the Shoe Box Appeal. Joan Dier was the ICA representative for many years at the Women’s Refuge in Wexford and was also the co-ordinator of Multi-grain Nutritious Brown Bread
the Daffodil collection in the village. Guild members come together regularly for
social occasions and have visited An Grianán, 1lb (475g) wholemeal flour musicals, drama and concerts, gardens, his-
1tsp. salt
toric houses, museums and places of interest. 1 heaped tsp. bread soda Members take part in the annual craft school. 1 tbsp. Bran We received funding under the Go for Life
1 tbsp. Wheatgerm
programme and we have had classes in
1 tsp. Honey
Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi, Aqua Aerobics, bowls
1 tbsp. Pinhead oatmeal or rolled oats
and many others.
1 tbsp. Olive Oil
In 2012 Taghmon guild were deeply saddened by the loss of their founder member
1 pt. Buttermilk Sesame seeds
Joan Dier. Bringing us up to date Taghmon ICA has
Method
had the following recent demonstrations:-
• Place all dry ingredients in a bowl. Make a
The benefits of Aloe Vera, Heart speakers
well in centre and add honey and oil. Pour in
from Irish Heart Foundation, Positive Living
half the buttermilk and mix well.
and Birkenstock shoes. They also took part
• Pour in the remainder of the buttermilk and
in “Making IT Better”.
mix to soft wet dough.
We would like to extend a céad míle fáilte
• Grease and flour a 2lb. loaf tin and pour in
to anyone who would like to join our guild.
mixture. Press down well and then draw a line
Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of
down the centre with a floured knife. Sprinkle
the month in the Scout hall at 8.00 p.m. Be-
top with sesame seeds.
coming a member is a great way to make new • Bake in a hot oven for one hour. You may friends, learn a new craft, become informed
need to reduce the heat after half hour.
about local and national issues, enjoy social
• Oven temp. 200C 400F No 7 gas. Reduce if
outings and become involved in projects
necessary to 180C.
54
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
• The changing colours of the Taghmon countryside, Rapeseed with a few swallows too. © The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
Bev Staunton
55
A Great Son Of Taghmon Andy Doyle’s presence filled a room and his laughter will never be forgotten
Taghmon lost another one of its characters this year. Andy Doyle, Chapel St, Taghmon, loved everything that made Taghmon what it is. Having moved here at the age of six from Bunclody, he quickly adapted and made it his home. On leaving school Andy worked in various jobs before establishing his own well-boring business in the early 1960’s which he ran successfully for many years. Around this time he also ran a number of Bingos throughout the South East, but would be mostly remembered for running them in Camross and Taghmon. As you may know, Andy married Eileen (nee Nolan) and had four children, Honor, David, Shelly and Andrew. Together they opened a drapery shop in the Square in Taghmon and successfully ran it for over 20 years. When he retired he sold the premises to his good friend Jim McGee and so ‘Alice Brady’s Pub’ was born!! Over the years Andy represented his club, county and province with distinction in both hurling and football. As a minor footballer, Andy was part of the Wexford Team which reached the All Ireland Final in 1950, losing out to a great Kerry team. He was also a member of the Wexford Senior team in 1957 56
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
that were unlucky to be beaten by eventual
remembered appearing with Kevin O’Leary
All Ireland winners, Louth. A call to represent
as the hilarious duo ‘Jim and Lizzy’!
Leinster came in 1959 and Leinster duly won
He had a great interest in community life
the Railway Cup that year, with Andy playing
and in the youth within it. With this in mind
a big part at full back marking the great John
he and a bunch of his good friends put the
Dowling of Kerry. At club level three Senior
wheels in motion to have a multi functional
County titles were won in 1955, 1957 and
hall built. He was always extremely proud of
1958 with ‘St Munns’ as the Taghmon side
the Community Centre and every committee
were then known.
associated with it. He was delighted to see the
As a dual player, Andy also enjoyed success
Tops of the Parish being held there as this put
as a hurler with the Wexford Senior County
Bingo, sport and drama all under one roof.
Team. His most memorable display was in
This is still happening today with Parish Tops
the Leinster semi final of 1961 where Andy
being replaced by South East Tops.
scored an impressive four goals and two
Andy spent a lot of time on the Main Street
points from play against Kilkenny. He won an
in Taghmon, firstly dressed up as God knows
Intermediate medal in 1964, a Leinster Senior
what in the Mardi Gras Parade in the 1980’s
hurling medal, a Railway Cup Football medal
but more recently as one of the Inn Keep-
along with a host of tournament medals mak-
ers in the Live Nativity Play which is staged
ing for a very impressive collection. When
behind his beloved fountain in the Square
Andy hung up his boots as
in Taghmon.
a player he went on to man-
Andy enjoyed a great
age both local and county
social life, playing cards
footballers and maintained
and having long chats over
a keen interest in the for-
a few little jemmies with
tunes of Wexford teams.
his many friends. Andy
As much as he loved
celebrated his 80th birthday
GAA, he also loved the
earlier this year and was
stage, gracing it with his
surrounded by his count-
huge presence for many
less friends and family. His
years. He acted in plays,
presence always filled a
pantomimes and Tops and
room and his laughter will
excelled at them all. He will
never be forgotten.
be fondly
Eileen Doyle The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
57
Come fly with us The history of ILAS and their flying machines
• View fom the air of
the landing strip at White’s field, Ardinagh . Images courtesy of ILAS
The Society of Amateur Constructors (SAAC)
(SAAC) and the Classic Aircraft & Aerobatic
was founded in 1978 to cater for the needs of
Club of Ireland (CAACI). This amalgamation
a growing number of aviation enthusiasts in
of SAAC and CAACI was first proposed in
Ireland who wanted to build and fly their own
2007 to bring together two organisations whose
aircraft for recreational and educational pur-
purposes were very alike and also shared several
poses. One of the co-founders is a Wexford man
members, both operated similar but separate
Mr. John Duggan.
Permit to Fly schemes.
Initially, classic and vintage activity was mainly
ILAS operates an airfield located at Ardinagh,
focused on arranging fly-in’s, publishing newslet-
Taghmon, Co Wexford, which was established in
ters and building membership. Following an ap-
2001 by SAAC through the support and gener-
proach to the then Department of Tourism and
osity of a local landowner and SAAC member,
Transport in 1988, the club received approval
the late John White. The ILAS Field has a grass
to introduce a Permit to Fly scheme, which re-
runway orientated 18/36 and is 600 metres in
placed the previous Certificate of Airworthiness
length, an annual FLY-In is held every Sum-
requirements.
mer and our contact there is Aidan Power 087
The Irish Light Aviation Society (ILAS) was
6765207. More information about our organisa-
formed in 2009 following a merger between
tion can be found on our website: www.ilas.ie
the Society of Amateur Aircraft Constructors
Aidan Power
58
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
59
• Great memories of dramatic times in Camross 60
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
Dramatic Times Memories of the Camross Drama Group If one was compiling a chronology of Irish
class!” The stranger would probably have
history and one had, after much laborious
laughed out loud and long – and, perhaps,
research, arrived at the year 1955, one would
his guffaws would have been justified, for, I
almost certainly jump for joy, as one became
suppose, we did look remarkably like the cast
acutely aware that the most significant hap-
of Tarry Flynn going to evening devotions in
pening of that eventful year was the birth of
Inniskeen chapel. But we had been summoned
the Camross Drama Group. Ireland joining
– in fact ordered from the altar – to turn up
the United Nations, the conflagration that de-
for a meeting by Fr. James Murphy, C.C., the
stroyed the Cork Opera House, even Wexford
local curate - and when he said jump, in those
winning the All-Ireland hurling title for the
days, you asked how high.
first time in forty-five years, would be mere
The dictatorial little Reverend, with the
trivia in comparison to that momentous event.
turned in toes, had picked up a smidgen of
Or that’s what we’d like to think.
drama lore during his sojourn in Enniscor-
Caroreigh, where it all began, is exactly half
thy and, I suppose, felt that he was ready to
way between Wexford town and New Ross,
launch his first dramatic miracle and trans-
and, located behind its one hundred and
mute base metal into pure gold. A daunting
sixty-five year old church - and smugly proud
task, as a glance at a photograph of those of
of its own youthful looking one hundred and
us who took part in his first production will
fifty-eight years - is the Old School, the home,
quickly verify, but he was determined and
since 1955, of the above mentioned group.
forged ahead.
Yes, on Monday night, September 26th,
In 1949 a new school had been built in
1955, the same night that Hughie Green’s new
an adjoining field, and about the same time
show, “Double Your Money,” started on ITV,
a Muíntir na Tíre branch had sprung into
fourteen of us shuffled sheepishly into the
existence. The enthusiastic new members of
recently rejuvenated old building. If a visiting
that organisation soon got moving, and in a
stranger had enquired of a local as to what
short time had the dilapidated, rat infested,
was going on, he would have been informed
old building fit for a king’s visit. Social gather-
that “Dem lads ar’ goin’ t’ start a dramatic
ing – dances, parish meetings, card-drives, etc
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
61
• All Ireland one-act, confined winners, 2008; ‘A Family Affair’ by Derek O’Gorman
- were all held there, and I suppose - seeing
Our first effort was “Professor Tim,” an old
that drama groups were as plentiful then, as
Abbey pot-boiler by George Shields, which,
potholes are now - it was inevitable that even-
in its heyday was mercilessly mangled by every
tually someone would propose the formation
parish drama group from the Mizen to Fair
of a “Dramatic Class.” Someone did. I think
Head. Not to be outdone, we knuckled down
it was Dan Nolan - a 41-year old farmer and
and mangled mercilessly with the best of
ex-footballer, who had the dubious experience
them. Still, five months later, we walked away
of taking part in a few cobbled-together plays
with the rural section at the South Leinster
during the forties, and may have been acciden-
Drama Festival in Gorey. (Some said – and
tally infected by the acting bug.
they were right- we were the best of a bad lot).
However, the diffident fourteen who
We also won the same section in ’57, ’58, ’59
shuffled in to meet the cranky little curate
and ’60, and, by then, we were collecting act-
that night, were:- Dan Nolan (RIP), Phil
ing and directing awards as well – some of us
O’Callaghan (RIP), John Fitzpatrick (RIP),
were even beginning to think we had talent!
Lar Banville (RIP), Jim Cooper (RIP), Sean
In 1958 we paid our first visit to the All-Ire-
O’Gorman (RIP), John Reilly (RIP), Aiden
land in Athlone (The Sportex Hall) with M.J.J.
Foley (RIP), Des Waters, Bridget Waters
MacKeown’s comedy, “The Rale McCoy.”
(RIP), Anne Foley, Eileen Morrissey, Gertie
We were so bad that when Gerard Healy, the
Fox (RIP) and Polly Grannell (RIP). Fifty-five
adjudicator, was in the process of demolish-
years later, with seven one-act All-Irelands
ing us from the stage, he almost ran out of
accumulated – as well as a myriad of related
derogatory phrases. He implied - as far as
trophies - the group that was dragged into
I could comprehend at the time - that we
being that night, by a pipe smoking, unsmiling
should never have been allowed out, and
little curate, is still in existence, winning its last
that any member of the audience who had
major trophy in 2008.
the horrific experience of sitting through
62
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
our entire show would never be the same
attempt to interfere with the author’s inten-
again. When his tirade was finally finished
tion. He had removed a few pertinent lines
and he had stepped back behind the curtain
from the script, concerning the erosion of
Mr. Hyde became Dr. Jekyll and – to me at
moral values in times of famine and degrada-
least – he seemed to be desperately searching
tion, claiming that from a catholic viewpoint
for someplace to become anonymous. There
he considered them highly inappropriate. Yes,
was no escape route, however, as our deflated
that’s how incredibly naïve and unfit for the
little cleric, together with his entire cast, were
big stage he was.
waiting, frozen in anticipation. I’ll never forget
Following a reasonably competent pro-
Healy’s opening remark to us “Is MacKeown
duction of T.C. Murray’s Maurice Harte, in
still alive?” he enquired awkwardly. No one
1960, The ‘Reverend Man’ retired, but after
appeared to know, and in the embarrassing si-
a few initial hiccups, the group embraced the
lence that followed, he sidled away out of our
phoenix syndrome and soldiered on, and in
proximity and desperately sought conversation
every decade since has won an All-Ireland
with a few innocent bystanders. And that was
one-act title.
it. No long drawn out and painful repetition
The little pipe-puffing dictator retired from
of his recent unflattering analysis, no, not
his priestly duties in 1972 and died on the 2nd
even a perfunctory thank you. So, after a few
of January 1979 at the age of 68. He may not
unchoreographed shuffles we slunk away,
be remembered for his overwhelmingly char-
muttering, to our dressing room, gathered our
ismatic personality or his scintillating wit, his
gear together, and headed for Camross with
philanthropic gestures or his scholastic attain-
our tail between our legs.
ments, but he did generate, in Camross and its
The next year, 1959, we again had the
environs, a spark of dramatic creativity, which
temerity to accept a nomination, this time
kindled slowly, then burst into flame, and is
to the newly opened Dean Crowe Memorial
now blazing fiercely. Not a bad legacy.
Hall. Our play, “The Black Stranger”, was
Des Waters
written, believe it or not, by our old friend, Gerard, and one can only speculate about his reaction had he witnessed our limp attempt to do justice to his wonderful play about the Irish famine. The adjudicator, John Fernald, from London, tore lumps off us. Most of his scarifying comments were generated by the little clergyman’s
• All Ireland winners ‘81, The Dumb Waiter
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
63
Camross Drama Today
‘Last Tango in Little Grimley’ by David Tristram, a comedy, directed by Michael
Camross Drama Group has made an indelible
Stafford is the One Act Fundraiser with a cast
mark both locally and nationally with a huge
of Breda Breen, Gillian Dunlop Doyle, Val
number of successes. Early 2012, incidentally,
Whitty and Philip Howlin and the final part
has been a reasonably quiet period for the
of our fundraising package is Mary Brown’s
group as a large number of
‘The Last Straw’ performed by
members were involved in
Paddy O’Gorman. The group
the Camross Passion Play
have had fundraising events in
which was staged dur-
Wexford Arts Centre, Stanville
ing Eastertime. After a
Lodge Hotel, Carrig on Bannow
well-earned rest, members
Community Centre and Presen-
decided on One Act Plays
tation Centre, Enniscorthy.
for the One Act Drama
The group have decided to
circuit and fundraisers and
enter in the Three Act Festival
so it’s been all action since
in 2013 and ‘The Loves of Cass
August. The play selected
Maguire’ has been decided as
to be performed in the One
our entry with Michael Stafford
Act festivals is ‘Billy the
in the Director’s Chair. Au-
Member’ written by Des
ditions are being held pres-
Waters about ten years ago, which went on the
ently. Therefore a busy Christmas period lies
circuit then, and finished 4th in the All Ireland
ahead with lots of lines to be memorised.
Confined Section. So ‘Billy the Member’
The group’s annual Table Quiz took place in
written and directed by Des will be travers-
Taghmon/Camross GAA Complex and was
ing the roads to festivals in Kilmallock, Cork
the usual resounding success. Michael Stafford
City, Haulbowline, Goresbridge and Gorey
and Breda Breen attended the Drama Sum-
during November and with a bit of luck will
mer School in Limerick in early August and in
reach the All Ireland Stages of the competi-
2012 the group decided to have a membership
tion and who knows after that……… The
fee, for the first time, of just €5 and has been
cast is, as was ten years ago, Mike Banville, Pat
responsible for increased interest in Camross
O’Callaghan and Martin Dunne with all three
Drama group. Finally, we hope to end 2012 on
improving with age. Michael Stafford has the
a ‘high’ and start 2013 with ‘The Loves of Cass
onerous task of sound and lighting techni-
Maguire’. Rehearsals are going to plan in The
cian and the set was constructed by Michael
Old School in Caroreigh, our second home.
O’Gorman and Mike Banville.
Breda Banville, Chairperson.
64
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
The Sprockets A Motorcycle Club looking for adventure and collecting for charity along the way
• Paddy Murphy gets them on their marks • They’re
rapid and they’re nifty on the Honda 50 run.
The Sprockets Vintage Motorcycle Club was
ing. One of the main things that the Club
originally formed about thirteen years ago
recently helped with was the purchase and
but changed its name from Back Sprockets
installation of the Village Defibrillator. We
to Sprockets Vintage Motorcycle Club. Its
also run the Paddy Murphy Memorial Honda
members are mainly locally based motorcycle
50 Run each year, and provide marshals to
owners who are interested in everything con-
help with the local tractor runs, and any other
nected to motorcycles.
organisations that need help.
The Club has been organising bike runs for
All types and ages of motorcycles are
various local charities for many years and has
owned by the Club members and new mem-
raised substantial amounts which have helped
bers are always welcome. The contacts for the
out many other local organisations with fund-
Club are Mick Nash and Pat Hogan.
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
65
Community Gains Medal success in the All Ireland Community Games Finals in Athlone
• Our Badminton Team win top prize in U15 Badminton finals
Taghmon Area Community Games has been
activity for everyone, no matter what their
operating since the 1980s and is affiliated to the
interests and abilities, the focus is on participa-
National Community Games Association. It is
tion, not winning. Activities include badminton,
a voluntary organisation that operates in the
soccer, athletics, art, drama, model-making,
local community and provides the opportunity
chess, singing, dancing, swimming, handwriting,
for children aged 6 to 16 to develop in a healthy
cycling, recitation, music, skittles, the list goes on.
and safe environment by allowing them to
In recent years we have had success at
participate in numerous sporting and cultural
County, Provincial, and National levels in activi-
activities. The emphasis is on fun and
ties such as indoor soccer, table-tennis, skittles,
building community spirit. There is some
athletics, art, badminton, cross county and
66
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
music. In 2012, our U15 Badminton Team, U14
and effort from our respective members and
Skittles team and U16 Skittles team won gold,
volunteers, and new volunteers and helpers are
silver, and bronze respectively in the All Ireland
always very welcome, we really need people
Community Games Finals in Athlone. We also
to get involved if Community Games is to
had an individual who won bronze in the U10
continue in our area. The majority of people
200m National Community Games Final.
who get involved do so through the participa-
We do not charge an entry fee to these
tion of their children. It is a great social conduit
competitions here in our area and subsidise
in which to meet people and make new friends
our competitors who progress to county and
while giving something back to your local
national level. Our main source of income is
community by helping young people experience
an annual Church-Gate collection and a Predict
sporting and cultural activities. Regardless of
the Score competition. Like most voluntary
your age, experience, interests or time avail-
organisations, we require financial resources,
ability, you can become involved in a way that is
especially now in these tough economic times
tailored to suit you.
and would like to thank local businesses and
The forthcoming year (2013), is full of
everyone in the community for their continued
challenges for Taghmon Community Games,
financial support, it is much appreciated.
following a major revamp of the activities
As you can see from this summary, we
and events facilitated by National Community
provide young people with activities and
Games, along with a change in the structure
opportunities to widen their experiences,
and scheduling of the National Finals.
develop social skills, represent their local
However, we are confident that with the help
community, possibly even their county and
and support of our local community we will
most importantly, to have fun! The provision
face these new challenges and continue to
of these activities and accompanying resources
provide this important sporting, cultural and
require large amounts of time, commitment
social outlet for children in our area.
• Our U14 Team (above) take silver and The U16’s (right) win bronze in the All Ireland Community Games Finals in Athlone The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
67
Keep on running Taghmon Athletic Club winning medals, having fun and keeping fit Founded in 1985, Taghmon Athletic Club is a
outdoor Cross Country training. In the sum-
small enthusiastic athletics club with an empha-
mer, training is outside and includes activities
sis on juvenile athletes. We promote health, fit-
such as Sprints, Long Jump, Hurdles, Ball
ness, sportsmanship, fair play, social interaction
Throw and Relays. Training times are
and work on areas such as balance, stamina,
dependent of the season of the year. Ath-
agility and coordination. We are affiliated
letes from the club have experienced success
to Athletics Wexford, Athletics Leinster and
at County, Leinster and National level in
Athletics Association of Ireland. This enables
Track and Field (indoor and outdoor) and in
us to participate in county, provincial and na-
Cross Country events, both in Athletics Ire-
tional competitions and provides support such
land competitions and in Community Games.
as insurance, coaching and development and
In 2012, athletes from our club won 6 gold,
technical support.
8 silver and 14 bronze individual medals and
The club has over 90 members compris-
3 sets of County relay medals, (2 gold and 1
ing of athletes, coaches and administrators.
bronze) at the Athletics Wexford County “A�
All of our coaches possess Athletic Ireland
Championships.
qualifications, have completed the Code of
As a club, we are aware of the importance
Ethics for Children in Sport course and have
of participation of children in sports and the
been Garda vetted. Currently, our member-
benefits sports activities can bring. This is
ship range is from 6 to 14 years, the average
especially relevant in light of recent research
age of the athletes being nine and a half.
which reports low levels of participation in
The club runs general agility and core fitness
sport and increasing obesity amongst
training sessions indoors on Wednesdays
children in Ireland. We are also aware of the
evenings during the winter as well as some
need for new members for our club both at
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The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
• The boys and girls holding the banner of Tagmon AC and doing the community proud.
adult (coach) and child (Athlete) level, so as to
We are very optimistic about the future
ensure the continuation of our club. To this
viability of our club and are determined
end, this year, with the assistance of grants
to maintain the friendly and non competi-
from Sports Active Wexford, we trained some
tive environment of our training sessions.
new coaches and organized a series of training
Participation in activities and having fun
sessions that are specifically aimed at older
while keeping fit and healthy is the ethos of
children. The coaching sessions concentrated
our club. Membership is open throughout
on field events such as throws and jumps
the year, new members always welcome. You
so as to introduce the children to athletic
must be a member to train or compete in
events other than running. Using the grant we
events with the club and membership must
invested in new equipment and also invited
be renewed on an annual basis.
some senior athletes and coaches from other
Contact any committee member for infor-
clubs to demonstrate the disciplines of shot
mation and membership queries.
putt, high jump, long jump and race walking.
Helena Hore
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
69
Marathon Man 26 marathons and still going strong a local man’s story that will keep on running
• Maurice Whitty running the Connemara Ultra in memorey
of his late nephew Air Corp’s Cadet David Jevens
After being a member of the Wexford
introduction to running began. I had always
Wheelers Cycling club from the age of
wanted to try a marathon after watching
12 to when I was 19 years old, I had put on
the London Marathon on television down
weight which would stand against me
through the years. I was amazed by how
in the future.
people could run so far. I remember on
Back in 1998, running at the age of 29 my 70
training runs of two and half miles having
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
to stop half way through to rest but steadily
roar of the crowds on First Avenue.
I built up the miles.
The people were twenty deep behind the
My first Marathon was Dublin 1999, I can
barriers as I ran up First Avenue, the hairs
remember running the first twenty miles very
stood on the back of my neck and I finished
slowly and walking most of the last six but I
in a time of 3 hours and 12 minutes.
got there and finished in a time of 4 hours 18
Two New Yorks, three Londons, two
minutes. I think I said never again at the time
Dublins and one Barcelona later I ran my
but I was back for more in 2000 in the Belfast
fastest time Marathon in Berlin 2010 in 3 hours
Marathon. I was inexperienced so I went off
and 6 minutes, a time I haven’t bettered since.
fast and suffered very badly and finished again
In 2011 I stepped up to an Ultra Marathon
in 4 hours and 18 minutes. From this I learned
in memory of my late nephew Air Corp’s
a very valuable lesson and ran the Dublin
Cadet David Jevens who died in a plane crash
Marathon 2001 in 3 hours and 25 minutes.
in Connemara in 2009. I ran the Connemara
Marathons in Dublin 2002 and Paris 2003
Ultra 39.3 miles with 170 brave souls.
followed but before Dublin 2004 I started get-
The only spectators on the course were the
ting chest pain. Eight years previously I lost
sheep roaming the hills. Later on that year I
my brother through heart attack, so I stood up
ran the Chicago Marathon followed by the
and took notice. One ECG test later, having
Dublin Marathon four weeks later.
got the all clear I was back running on the
This year I ran Marathons in Rotterdam
streets of Dublin. But things were to change
and a week later in London. October just
and on further investigation a blockage
gone, I ran the Amsterdam Marathon and
was found.
Dublin Marathon a week later.
My hunger for running would win out and
One person who has been a huge support
one angioplasty and a stent heavier I was back
to me along the way is my wife Alice Whitty
running in the Dublin Marathon of 2005.
(Roche) from Ballyhennigan and where we
2006 was the year I would venture to Boston in April and New York in November.
live to this day. Now 26 Marathons on and I’m planning
Standing on the start line in New York sent
for next year; a return to Connemara Ultra in
shivers down my spine; with TV helicopters
April and the Dingle Ultra (50 miles) in Sep-
hovering over head.......this is where I wanted
tember. My hunger to run longer distances is
to be. At seventeen miles we hit Queensboro
increasing, some people think I’m mad but
Bridge linking Queens and Manhattan; the
it’s in my blood now and hopefully there are
only sound on this double decker bridge was
many more Marathons and Ultras
the echo of pounding feet. On reaching the
in the future.
other side of the bridge you could hear the
Maurice Whitty
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
71
St Patrick’s day Special Economic climate is tough but Taghmon residents don’t let it rain on their Parade
72
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
• St Patrick’s Day parade and rally © Photographs courtesy of Homer The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
73
The Rose of the Summer Escorting a Rose in the beautiful vale of Tralee We arrived quietly in Tralee on Wednesday
The highlight of the week for all was the
15th August not knowing what to expect
opening parade on Saturday night where thou-
from the week ahead. That was the last quiet
sands of people lined the streets to support
moment for the week. Our apartments for the
the Roses, get their autograph and welcome
week were situated in the town centre not far
everyone to the town officially.
from the buzz of the music.
The following days consisted of a smaller
Thursday morning we had a quick briefing
parade for children, visiting different parts of
of what was ahead of us before heading up to
Tralee, from the town council to the old folks
meet the roses in Limerick. This was our first
home, along with preparing for the T.V nights
meeting with the Roses who were just finish-
with RTE. At times the week was tough as
ing their tour around Ireland.
you are under pressure, to keep to a schedule,
After a late night of meeting with the Roses
always be well presented and meeting with the
and party guests we made our way back down
public but you have so much support through-
to Tralee to get ready for the beginning of the
out from the team and the people who sup-
festival. It was exciting to walk through the
ported you that you carry on and enjoy all of it.
town and feel the atmosphere getting livelier
I walk away from the festival with a positive
and watch all the places get ready for arrival
outlook on our country and culture. In the cur-
of the Roses
rent crisis we are in, it is one of the few good
I was paired with the New Orleans Rose
things we have left. It receives alot of criticism
Lisa Brady whose mother is from Granagh in
but for no apparent reason. Altogether it brings
Limerick. From Friday onwards I was amazed
about â‚Ź12 million to our economy, it brings
at the reception we all received from the
families back home to Ireland to their routes.
people of Tralee who turned out everyday to
plan for the next year to campaign for our next
wish you the best. They were always interested
Wexford Rose, she could be from Taghmon.
in where you from and I was proud to tell all
down there and gladly informed them that I
I would like to thank all who supported me in Taghmon and helped me make it to Tralee and to my sponsors The Stanville Lodge Hotel, Beauty Within Salon and Jacksies Bar in Taghmon.
had come all the way from Taghmon.
James Doyle
about Wexford and promote the good things about the county as that is the main theme of the festival. I also met people from Wexford
74
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
The Taghmon and Camross Journal 2012
19
Passion Players A portrait of The Passion Play, photographs by Lisa Mc Loughlin The Camross Easter Festival Committee gave
problems as the stage in the Opera House was
me the onerous task of producing and direct-
much larger than Camross Hall. Denis Banville
ing Camross Passion Play 2012. The meeting
my stage manager and I spent many hours de-
with said committee took place in March 2011
signing a set that could be used in both venues.
a full twelve months before the big event. I was
Denis, Robert Nolan and Brendan Doyle built
honoured and delighted that they had faith in me
the set as a labour of love. It was painted by a
to do the needful. Needless to say I was terri-
number of the cast with any art work done by
fied as The Passion Play had already been staged
Meadbh Stafford.
twice before, in 2000 and 2006. There were
To stage this play using as few props as pos-
many sleepless nights as I prepared for the most
sible called for a spectacular lighting plan. On
difficult production I had ever undertaken.
being given the task to direct I immediately made
The Dioceses of Ferns had commissioned the
contact with Kevin McEvoy a young lighting
Passion Play to be performed in Wexford Opera
genius from Carnew and he had no hesitation in
House as their contribution to the Eucharistic
coming on board. And boy what a lighting plot
Congress. It was also to be staged in Camross
he presented, it left the audiences speechless!
Hall during Holy Week. This created logistical 76
To achieve perfection a choir second to none
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
was required. Under the baton of none other than Fr. Willie Howell and the musical genius that is Enna McKenna, a choir that would not be out of place in The National Concert Hall was created. Soloist was Tomas Whelan. Many of the cast of the two previous performances were prepared again to take part. Some were agreeable to take on different roles, others wished to remain in the roles they had played before. I tried to facilitate this where possible. Pat Sinnott was cast in the role of Christ. His performance each night left the audience in tears so powerful was his portrayal of the tortured Christ. The High Priests were superb with Fionn Stafford, Pat Callaghan and Jim Roberts in
What more can one ask for? During the performances I have never seen
full control. Breda Banville was the tormented
as much eating. Each night as the show was
Mother of Christ with Breda Nolan her support
being performed those who were not on
as Mary Magdalene. Val Whitty as Judas Iscariot
stage spent time grazing. I am sure many of
was an evil betrayer of his master and friend.
the cast had to go on diets after Easter,
In a cast of over seventy we had the apostles led by Seamus Murphy as Peter, Roman soldiers
having eaten so much. I must say I was sad when it ended as I
under the command of Paddy O’Reilly as Cap-
enjoyed every minute of the experience. They
tain. We must not forget those who took part in
were a talented and committed cast and crew
all the crowd scenes.
and I hope to work with many of them in vari-
Rehearsals started in October 2011 in Camross
ous productions over the coming years.
Hall and I could not have asked for more from
I cannot thank the committee enough for
the most helpful cast I have ever worked with.
their hard work and support. Michael Doyle as
The cup of tea when rehearsals ended was very
Chairman and Maria Colfer as Co-Ordinator
convivial and welcome. The performance in the
were very supportive and were available at all
Opera House was memorable and enjoyed by
times to help when asked and that was often.
all, something that may never happen again so
May I take this opportunity to once again
it should be cherished. Holy week in Camross
thank all who had any part in the success of
was a week of theatre that will be in my memory
The Passion Play and wish you all a Happy and
bank for ever. Cast, choir and crew gave of their
Holy Christmas.
all and at the end there was nothing left to give.
Michael Stafford.
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
77
Why we love Caroreigh The children of St Garvan’s National School and why their community is special
• Catherine O’Neill’s vist inpiring the next generation In my area there’s loads to do. You can play football, hurling and soccer. You can also do
Not forgetting everyone who lives in Taghmon. Loads of people have come to Taghmon,
athletics and much more. There are summer
including the former President of Ireland.
camps, two schools, two churches, a community
Recently Catherine O’Neill visited our school
centre and we have our very own newsletter. In
and I got to hold her medal. I love living in this
Taghmon there’s the chipper, four pubs, two
parish and I hope I never have to move out of it.
shops, a petrol station, a bank, a garda station, a
Conor McGee, aged 12, 6th Class,
bookies, a chemist and a hardware shop. John Conway is the manager in Spar and he’s
Caroreigh is a great place to live in because
always nice to people. In McGee’s shop you
there is a few houses, the pitch, the school
feel the spirit of a small shop. In the four pubs,
St Garvan’s National School, the church, the
a sense of community hits you. In the petrol
graveyard and the court beside the school. The
station, Tom and Betty Fox are always helpful
people here are all nice, kind and friendly. Most
to people looking for petrol. In the bookies the
of my family live here. I live in Caroreigh, right
people working there are always helpful. The
beside the school so I walk every morning and
people who are over the football, hurling and
afternoon. Father David lives right beside the
soccer teams make the club a nice place to be.
church which is right beside the school.
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The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
• Portrait of St Garvan’s National School, Caroreigh by Val Whitty We have Mass once a year to bless the well and another for the graveyard.
We went down to the PE Hall and we welcomed her. We had a poster of her and
Catherine O’Neill came to our school with
green flags hanging up when she walked in.
her silver Paralympic Medal. The Passion Play
Then 5th and 6th class played the National
was on in 2012 because it’s on every year for
Anthem for her. She then talked and said a
years. People from Caroreigh and Taghmon
few words about her time in London and how
acted out the story of Jesus.
long she trained for to get to the Paralympics.
That’s what’s good about Caroreigh.
When she was leaving the music class played
Katelyn Maher aged 12, 6th Class,
‘Waving Flag’ with different instruments. We left the PE Hall and she came around to
The date was 5-10-12. It was a Friday and it
all the classes, 5th and 6th were last. She finally
was the day when Catherine O’Neill came to
came and we asked her lots of questions like,
visit our school. She came to the school to
what was it like to be standing on the podium
show us the silver medal that she won in the
and her time in London. What is it like to be
Paralympics. She arrived in the morning at
an athlete? At the end we all got to hold the
10.30. She was born with small arms. She has
medal. It was very heavy.
a son called Callum.
Emma Clarke 11 years, 5th Class, The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
79
Caroreigh
• The Junior Infants class with Ms Fitzgearld
• Sixth class withMr Cousins
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The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
Staying the course Taghmon Golf Society finding fairways and making friends along the way
•
Tony Kelly, Jim O’Keeffe, Pauric McMenamin and Kevin Houlihan at Druids Glen 2010
Taghmon Golf Society was started in 1994 with
A list of rules for the Society were drawn up,
a casual conversation over a pint or two between
the main one being that a Parish rule would
Pat Murphy, Sean Sinnott, and Eddie Cousins.
prevail over admission to the Society. This meant
These three gentlemen were all members of
that in order to be a member one had to live
Wexford Golf Club at the time and formed
or work in the Parish, be involved in some way
an ‘unofficial committee’ with no titles as such
with some of the other sporting organisations
but they evolved into Chairman, Secretary and
in the Parish or be related to someone in the
Treasurer type roles respectively and no annual
Parish. Maximum handicaps back then were 36
general meetings took place for the members for
but if somebody’s credentials were not known
a number of years. So even though there was no
then they started on 18 until “we the commit-
committee elected, the oft said “we the commit-
tee” decided on an individual’s handicap unless
tee shall decide” ruled in all matters with a strong
of course they had a G.U.I. handicap. Nowadays
fist holding a rod of iron (a seven iron that is).
the maximum is 28. All rules and meetings were
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
81
Joe Kelly 2012 Captain) and Dessie Nash (winner of the 2012 Captains Prize
of a verbal nature with very little being recorded
club secretary for the last few years) was the
to paper. This ‘meeting’, and many subsequent
winner with 45 points playing off a handicap
ones, took place in The Old Mill, a former public
of 34 (try getting one like that these days off
house in Taghmon village which Sean Sinnott
of Joe!). After this it was then decided to elect
owned at the time. There, it was decided to hold
a captain for 1995, an honorary position then,
two outings in Rathaspeck Manor, a par three
unlike in recent years, where the captain now
course on the outskirts of Wexford town and
takes an active role in the running of the Society.
then an outing in Wexford Golf Club which
This honour was bestowed upon Fr. Thomas
took place on 14th December 1994.
McCormack. Nobody can be appointed captain
Thirty six members played in this inaugural
a second time, so this simple rule keeps things
championship course outing at Wexford Golf
evolving . The first membership list from 1995
Club and the Society as we know it today was
recorded has 42 names on it. It is interesting to
up and running. The sponsors for the prizes on
note that there are still quite a few of the original
this day were Irish Pride Bakery, Frank Codd,
members still on the current (2012) member-
Sean Sinnott, Phil Roche and Tom Furlong who
ship list namely; Eddie Cousins, Pat Murphy,
donated cash and gifts. Joe Cashin (our current
Ted Mangan, Joe Cashin, Steve Southam, Derek
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The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
Southam, Thomas Roche, Tom O’Gorman,
pated one on the calendar by all members. It has
Joe Cashe, Donie O’Brien, Jim McGee, Tom
run for three years now and we are glad to report
McGrath, Johnny Doyle and Eddie Colfer. Of
that Taghmon Golf Society have won all three
these Eddie Cousins, Pat Murphy, Joe Cashin,
so far. Twice now this fixture has been played at
Steve Southam, Derek Southam and Jim McGee
the simply superb course known as Druids Glen
are the ever present members. What stories they
near Greystones in Co. Wicklow one of the top
must all have to tell from tees to greens all over
five courses in the country
the south east, oft regaled in the 19th more so than anywhere else!
This year the first outing of the year at New Ross Golf Club was against another society,
Over the years there have been many changes
namely The Templars Society from the Fethard
to the society and it would be fair to say that it
area in the first of another annual fixture in our
is now, from humble yet firm beginnings of the
calender. In a hard fought duel a drawn match
three father figures, without doubt one of the
prevailed so roll on next year .
best run, highly regarded and largest golf societ-
The Captains Prize. This is a very sought after
ies in the region. With 10 outings a year. and
honour. The captain of the year chooses the
all games are now played on full championship
course and the prize and after that may the best
courses.
man win. The prizegiving ceremony takes place
The annual match against another society the first of which happened in 2006 against The
after a sumptuous meal in a local hotel where the winner to buys all present a pint.
Horse & Hound Golf Society from Ballinaboola, Cushenstown. In 2010 with the help of Tony Kelly we found a new challenge in the form of the Kilmacud Crokes Golf Society from Dublin The competition became fittingly known as ‘The Purple and Gold Cup’ as these are the club colours of the Kilmacud Crokes GAA teams whose members make up a large portion of their Golf Society. It is safe to say that this fixture is without doubt the most anticiThe Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
83
Ceol agus Craic Developing our appreciation of culture and a sense of musical achievement
• Musical Youth, the boys and girls of Ceoiltorà Munna
84
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
“Ceoltóirí Munna” is a Community initia-
Session in the G.A.A. Bar at the Commu-
tive. It was the brain child of a group of local
nity Centre, Taghmon, during a “Family Fun
musicians in 2009, which recognized a need
Day”, in aid of St. James’s Hospital. We also
for music lessons. They were willing to give
performed a Junior and Senior Session in the
their time and share their talents every Friday
G.A.A Centre in Glynn-Barntown in aid of
at Taghmon National School as an alternative
Childline and Tops.
for parents having to travel to Wexford town
Ceoltóirí Munna entertained the Senior
for music lessons.
Citizens at the Family Resource Centre
Our aim is to educate children and adults
Taghmon during the summer. Many Sessions
through music, rhythm and song. Both chil-
were hosted in Jacksie’s Bar Taghmon, Breen’s
dren and adults are benefiting from this com-
of the Dirr and Horetown House were our
munity initiative in a stimulating, enjoyable
adult members had a chance to enjoy and put
and safe environment. We have one hundred
into practice their newly learned skills.
and twenty members aged between four and eighty plus years.
Ethos of Ceoltóirí Munna
We teach: Tin Whistle, Bodhrán, Piano
1.To develop an appreciation of culture and a sense of
Accordion, Button Accordion, Flute, Fiddle,
musical achievement.
Banjo, Keyboard, Mandolin, Concertina,
2.To enable the student to enjoy, understand and
Singing, Folk/Modern Guitar, Drumming etc.
appreciate music.
Classes take place every Friday 6pm – 10pm in
3.To enhance the quality of a child’s life through musi-
Taghmon National School, Wexford.
cal experience.
The Junior Classes are between 6pm-8pm
4.To develop the student’s openness to, awareness of and
and Senior Classes 8pm- 10pm, two forty five
response to a wide range of musical genres, including
minute group classes and thirty minute group
Irish, Modern, African, Samba.
“Band Practices”.
5.To enable them able to take part in social
We emphasise the importance of the social
musical events.
aspect of music, learning from each other and of course “The Craic” .We have “Band Prac-
All of our teachers and assistants have had
tice” at the end of all Junior and Senior classes
years of training or equivalent in an accredited
which prepares students for annual Christmas,
music degree course or life- long practical
Summer and St. Patrick’s Day concerts, Com-
experience of playing their instruments.
munity Tops and Charity Events and Parties. This year we performed a Junior and Senior
Mise le Cheol By Deirdre Moran
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
85
Youth Focus Taghmon, where youth is definitely not wasted on the young
• Snapshots of the activities organised by Taghmon Youth Groups
Taghmon Youth Groups offer quality services
Youth Project Worker. To ensure the continued
to both settled and Traveller youth, working
success of our Youth Projects FĂ S has recently
from a model of equality and inclusiveness,
granted a place on their CE scheme for a Youth
aiming to empower the young people involved
Worker. This is a brand new and exciting posi-
through non-formal educational experiences.
tion for the village, with this person working
Funding is sought through Wexford Local
alongside the existing worker, having taken up
Development to employ a designated Traveller
their post last month. Funding has been
86
The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
successfully secured from the agencies for
cinema, bowling, horse riding, internet brows-
various activities and programmes for the
ing, eating out and every Christmas we look
groups over the past number of years.
forward to our annual trip to Dublin or Cork
Without their support the groups would not be
for shopping.
able to continue, this funding is sought through
Boyzone
Taghmon Action Group. Each group meet one
This group is a relatively new group, established
evening per week from September to June.
in September of this year. We also meet in
The summer programmes take place during
the FRC, every Wednesday evening from
July, while we break for the month of August.
5pm-7pm. Boyzone is made up of eight Traveller boys from the village age twelve to
The Youth club
eighteen years. Although we have not been
The Youth-club meets every Tuesday evening
together very long we have enjoyed going
from 7pm-9pm in the local Scout Hall. It is
bowling, eating out, playing soccer, playing
open to members from first year to eighteen
cards, pool, darts and various board games.
years of age. We do various arts and crafts, play pool, darts, team building games, board games,
Massive thanks to our funders:
X Box, Play-Station and we save hard during
The Department of Social and Family Affairs,
the year to be able to go on day/evening trips
HSE, NATC, Involve, The Irish Youth Foun-
during the school year. These trips vary from
dation, Grassroots, and Community Founda-
going bowling, to the cinema, ice skating and
tion of Ireland, AIB Better Ireland Fund,
attending discos.
Wexford County Council, Taghmon Action Group, Wexford Local Development, County
Girlzone
Wexford Community Arts Network, Wexford
Girlzone meet every Monday evening (5-7pm)
VEC, The Castle Vintage Club and Taghmon
in Taghmon Family Resource Centre (FRC).
Family Resource Centre.
This group is host to nineteen Traveller girls
By Dubhรกin Kavanagh
ranging from fourteen-twenty years. The girls hail from Taghmon and surrounding areas. In 2010, we launched a DVD which they compiled over a five month period. The finished product included a collection of short films, stop animation and cookery demonstrations. The girls love to cook/bake, carry out hair/nail care; they also enjoy going swimming, to the The Taghmon Parish Journal 2012
87
A Vintage year The Castle Vintage Club giving the recession a run for it’s money
Castle Vintage Club was founded in 2006 and
sure all the lads are well fed. The support of
have raised over €200,000 for both local and
local public houses is also appreciated for this
national charities to date. The founding com-
event. All collections from this run each year
mittee included Pat Monaghan (Chairman),
are donated to local charities including the
Martin Dunne (Vice Chairman), Paul Kehoe
local youth groups and sports clubs.
(Treasurer), PJ Williams (PRO) and Maria
In 2008 we took to the roads again and in
Fanning RIP (Secretary) whom sadly
May we headed off to Wicklow, Naas and
passed away.
Carlow taking in the beautiful Wicklow Gap
The Committee now includes;
en route. Although a scenic trip and great fun
Pat Monaghan – Chairman
was had by all, the hard work was not lack-
Martin Dunne – Vice Chairman
ing and a sum of €30,000 was raised for the
Mary White – Secretary
Community Workshop, Enniscorthy. Our
Karl Winters – Treasurer
first ladies run also took place in 2008 and
PJ Williams – PRO
although the weather was unfavourable over
Paddy McCrea – Safety Officer
one hundred ladies turned out to raise funds
Ciaran Monaghan – Collections Officer
for the local church restoration fund.
Noel Wall – Route Organiser
Donegal town was our destination for May 2009 and twenty five tractors completed the
Our first three day run brought us to
two hundred and twenty mile journey on
Killarney in June 2007 and €33,000 was raised
Sunday evening, having spent Friday night
for the Cancer Care Unit. In the same year we
in Carrick on Shannon and Saturday night in
held our first local run in October and raised
Ennis. Many of our members also completed
much needed funds for local charities. This
the twenty four hour drive from Malin Head
run has been a great success every year since.
to Hook Head and both these runs raised an
It is now known as the Dick Williams Me-
amount of just over €22,000 for Cystic
morial Run. This run would not be possible
Fibrosis and Cancer.
without the help of the GAA complex and the local ladies who do a brilliant job making 88
The recession had hit but it did not dampen the spirits of the club and in 2010 we
The Taghmon and Camross Journal 2012
travelled through thunder storms and heavy rain in Limerick to arrive in Galway on the May Bank Holiday Sunday evening, where the
A great achievement with vintage tractors raising over €6,000 for Elmbrook Special School. 2012 has been yet another good year for
real “Jacksie” welcomed twenty five tractors
the club which now has just over seventy
and a steam engine into Eyre Square. From
members and over one hundred and twenty
this run €15,155 was donated to Alzheimer
tractors. Cystic Fibrosis was the chosen charity
and Cancer charities. All Ireland Sunday in
for the three day run and we donated €6100 to
September 2010 became our first working day
the Tracy Lawlor Fund after driving a round
in Rourke’s Cross where a Steam Threshing
trip from Taghmon to Kilkenny to Portlaoise
took place amongst many other events and
to Carlow and back to Taghmon. Our other
€4,000 was raised for the Jack and Jill Foun-
events of the year also raised much needed
dation and Down Syndrome Wexford. This
funds for local charities and Our Lady’s
event has evolved into a weekend which we
Hospital received the funds from a Mizen
hope will continue to grow.
Head run which was completed by a number
Every year we strive to reach new goals
of our members earlier this year.
and 2011 no exception and our three day run
We hope 2013 will be equally as good for
took us to the Ring of Kerry, Killarney where
the club and its chosen charities. We would
we raised €6250 for the Irish Cancer Society.
also like to thank everyone who has helped
In the same year some of our members also
to make all this possible. We wish all a Happy
managed to drive through the thirty two
Christmas and a Peaceful and Prosperous
counties of Ireland in three days.
New Year
• The Castle Vintage Club on the road again. The Taghmon and Camross Journal 2012
89
A matter of pride Irish Pride Bakery proud to be part of the community
One of the biggest bakeries in the country, Irish Pride is based in Taghmon where its origins go
their popular Bunsters range. Of course the Taghmon bakery continues
back to the late 1800’s, when the Williams
to produce all the other Irish Pride favourites
family established a bakery in the village.
from Sandwich and Big Toast to Healthy Grain
Irish Pride did not come into being until over
to name a few. The many breads that originate
100 years later when a number of small regional
in Taghmon end up on shelves in shops from
family bakers got together to form the First
Donegal to Kerry every morning. It is rare
National Bakery Company, which later became
these days to see such a large manufacturing
Irish Pride Bakeries.
facility based in a small rural village but Irish
The Irish Pride brand has gone from
Pride are very happy to be based in Taghmon
strength to strength ever since and Operations
village as it works very well as a base for the
Director Ken Cahill pointed out that it is now
bakery and Irish Pride has every intention of
the 14th largest brand in the Irish grocery
sticking around for a long time!
market and 6th if you exclude the major
Unsurprisingly the bakery is by far the most
international brands on the supermarket
important factor in the local economy.
shelves like Coca Cola and Danone.
Irish Pride employs 125 people in Taghmon,
There are now two bakeries producing
but they are also indirectly responsible for at
Irish Pride’s popular breads, Taghmon and
least another 50 jobs, particularly as they use
Ballinrobe in Co. Mayo. Irish Pride have been
local services wherever possible. Our staff are
at their current site in Taghmon since 1981
from all around Co. Wexford.
and there have been several extensions since
‘It’s a matter of pride’ is the well known
then, the biggest coming in 2003 when work
tagline for the brand. This pride is not just in
began on a major €10million investment at
relation to their products, people and service, it
the bakery. That important project allowed
also relates to Taghmon and Wexford.
Irish Pride to expand fully into the soft rolls
Taghmon is a great place and there is a great
and burger bun market, in which they
sense of community in the village and Irish Pride
subsequently became the market leader with
Bakery is proud to be part of that community.
90
The Taghmon and Camross Journal 2012
The Taghmon and Camross Journal 2012
91
Sponsors Page Many thanks to all our sponsors for supporting this publication
Berry Sports Medicine & Physiotherapy Centre – 053 9240497 Gerald and Mary Kelly – 053 9240617 Eurospar, Taghmon – 053 9134122 Wallace’s, Wellington Bridge – 051 561113 Glanbia, Taghmon – 053 9134154 O’Brien’s Londis, Larkins Cross – 053 9120021 Micho’s Bar – 087 4199695 Park Alarms – 053 9144777 Beauty Within – 053 9183894 The Purple Patch Business Consultants – 087 9218616 Alice Brady’s Pub – 053 9134409 Martin Dunne – 087 2508171 WexfordDJ.com.
086 3561608
Fergie Kehoe Cllr. Michael Sheene Cllr. George Lawlor
A&M Hardware is a family-run business operating in Taghmon since January 1998. With an in-depth knowledge of the needs of the local community and expert invaluable advice, A&M Hardware is the place to go for all your Hardware, Household & Giftware needs. Our local friendly staff are helpful and qualified in all areas of Hardware & Plumbing.
We offer the following services to our customers: l l l
Free Parking
Open 6 days a week
Indoor Fuel Centre supplying:
Staffords Coal, Peat Briquettes, Wood blocks & kindling l
Specialist Agri-supply store
l
Dulux & Fleetwood paints l l
l l
Christmas club
Key-cutting service
Chain-saw sharpening service
Outstanding After-Sales service
053 9134110
facebook.com/amhardware
10% OF F
New Ross Branch Unit 12 Woodbine Business Park New Ross
Kitchen Sale Ongoing 10% off all fitted kitchens, bedrooms and sliding wardrobes. Plus get a FREE furniture voucher worth a further 10 % Also a large selection of clearance furniture must go.
Co. Wexford 051 425850
Enniscorthy Branch 71-73 Ross Road Enniscorthy Co. Wexford
www.cedarwood.ie
053 92 30311
Computer Repair No Fix No Fee Virus Removal IT Support SME Support School ICT Website Design Full CMS SEO& Analytics Call 087 2145988
• info@techsupportireland.com • www.techsupportireland.com
Molly Kent Counsellor
‘The mind is like a parachute, it doesn’t work unless it’s open’(anon) Sometimes we can find ourselves drifting through life not knowing why we feel the
way we do. Life can throw lots of negative, stressful and sad experiences in out path. Counselling gives you the chance to explore your feelings and emotions with me in a safe, non- judgemental, confidential and supportive way.
I will help you on your journey to find the strength to take control and make better decisions to enjoy a fuller, happier life.
Please ring 087 1448511 for: • One to one appointments • Individuals • Couples • Children/adolescents • Concerned persons
Accredited with Irish Association of Alcohol and Addiction Counsellors. Specialising in Drug/Alcohol Misuse and Addictions
WWTS Limited
Waste Water Treatment Solutions
Waste Water Treatment Solutions Ltd is an environmental company that has the environment at its core. Our principle role is to safeguard and enhance the environment through the upgrading of old and unconventional tanks in all areas relevant to environmental protection and improvements. What we do: Septic Tank & WWTP Desludge. Drain / Grease trap / Gully cleaning. CCTV Drain surveys.
Septic Tank Upgrades. New Waste Water Treatment Plants. Enviro services. Composting.
Our staff are on a 24 hrs call out system
Castlehayestown, Taghmon, co. Wexford Telephone: 9131866 / /087 6857464 Castlehayestown, Taghmon, Wexford. 053053 9131866 087 6857464
James Lacey Engineering Ltd Specialists in Stainless Steel and Mild Steel
Industrial Spray Painting Railings Catering Equipment General Fabrication Tel: 053 9139746 Mobile: 087 2722402 Email jimlaceyengineering@gmail.com
Shelmalier Commons, Murrintown, Co Wexford
Ladies & Gents Hair Studio
• Thursday 10am-6pm • Friday 10am-5.30pm• Saturday 9.30am-5pm • Late opening Thursday & Friday by appointment only •Tuesday & Wednesday on call • Thursdays’ Special 10% off Colours, Hi-lights and Body Waves
Mary Duggan
• 053 9134488 •
Main St, Taghmon
L.G. CODY & COMPANY
C H A RT E R E D C E RT I F I E D AC C O U N TA N T S
ARE YOU PAYING TOO MUCH TAX ? THEN GET THE BEST ADVICE We provide a personal & professional service in a timely & cost efficient manner
l Preparation of Accounts for
l Bookkeeping services i.e. VAT, Payroll & RCT.
Sole Traders & Limited Companies
l Capital Gains Tax, Gift/Inheritance Tax Returns.
l Tax Returns & Tax Planning
l Rental Property Returns.
l Cashflow Projections & Business Plans.
l Grant Applications : eg. Education & CEB funding.
Priory Street, New Ross, County Wexford. • Tel 051-420060 • Fax 051-420066 • Email info@lgcody.ie Clonard Business Park, Whitemill Industrial Estate, Wexford. Tel 053-9121280 Fax 053-9124965
Dermott S. Dunleavy & Son Solicitors l Personal injury claims l Accident claims l Conveyancing l House & land purchase/sales l Probate l Wills l Taxation l All court appearances Contact Cormac Dunleavy for a professional and friendly service to cater for all your legal requirements.
Ross Road, Taghmon, Co Wexford. 053 91 3418
Falcon Financial is located in Wexford town and provides helpful advice and assistance on a range of financial products and services including:
Protection Planning • Pension Guidance • Income Protection • Investment Advice You could have peace of mind knowing that you and your family could be secure financially should something happen to you… Take Life Cover for example, it gives your family a lump sum payment should you die. What’s more, our Income Protector plan provides you with replacement income if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury. This gives you financial support for as long as it takes to get back on your feet. Alternatively, Specified Illness Cover pays you a lump sum should you suffer from one of a list of illnesses covered. For more information on our range of financial options why not call Clodagh Today on 053 91 70262 to arrange a review of your finances at a time that suits you. Falcon Financial Ltd 4 Richmond Terrace, Spawell Road, Wexford • Tel: 053 91 42912 • Fax: 053 91 21009 • Email: clodaghmcnulty@falconfinancial.ie Falcon Financial is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland
modelcounty H ygiene S upplies
Suppliers of disposable paper products & cleaning chemicals etc. to Schools, Industry & Healthcare. Prop: Ger Sweeney
087 953 4770 • grsweeney@gmail.com • Ballinclay, Killurin, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford.
Home heating Oil (kero) Tractor Diesel (MGO) Motor Diesel (DERV)
Six day a week service We offer Great value to customers. Oil tank check service. Supply and fitting of oil tank locks. We can also recommend a quality professional to service your tank or boiler. Major credit cards accepted.
Caroreigh, Taghmon Est. 2010
Chapel Lane, Taghmon Est. 1999
n Monday – Friday n 9 am – 1 pm n Age: 2yrs 10mths – School age n ECCE Scheme Registered n HSE Registered n Playbase/Montessori Curriculum
Proprietor Laurena Kent • 087-1350823
Call Alan 086 3760512 • Office 053 9134369 • ahayes582@gmail.com
PF POWER&CO AITI Registered Tax Consultants • AIPA Registered Auditors
Paddy Power (Former Inspector of Taxes)
We provide a full range of Audit, Accounting, Tax Planning and Business advisory services. You can call to our offices or contact us by phone 8 Upper George’s St, Wexford • 053 9123688 High St, Graignamanagh, Co Kilkenny • 059 9724265 Email paddy.power@hotmail.com
Manor Cabs
clydach ltd
087 2383726
Taxi Cabs & Minibus Service
Trust Nash’s Cab & Mini Bus company to get you there on big timeor small No job too email: manorcabsclydach@gmail.com 053 9134447 • Main St, TAGHMON, WEXFORD
Property and Financial Services For advice on Mortgages, Life Assurance, Illness Cover, Pensions, Investments
Contact Tom O’Gorman 086 2451421 Old Boley, Taghmon, Wexford & Bridge St, New Ross tom@ogp.ie • www.ogp.ie O’ Gorman Prendergast is regulated by the Central Bank
Petrol / Diesel / Agri-Diesel Kerosene Repairs, services and tyres. Open Monday - Friday 7.45am to 8pm Saturday 9am to 8pm Sunday 9am to 7pm We would like to thank all our customers for their support over the year
O Donnell’s Pharmacy Serving our community for the last 60 years
We offer the following service to our customers l Prescriptions dispensed under all recognised Government Schemes. l L.T.I. High Tech, Hospital Emergency, Drug Payment Scheme, Drug Refund Scheme. l Medical Card Scheme, Dental Prescriptions, Ostomy Services and products. l For house bound patients and those requiring large volumes of medicine we operate a Free Delivery service and Prescription collection service in Adamstown, Clonroche and Bannow areas (please ring for details). l For the elderly to those who find it difficult to remember to take their tablets we can arrange the medication in weekly or monthly blister packs FREE of charge. l Consultation Room in store. l First Aid Kits made to order for any organisation with 10% off a complete kit or refill. l Passport and I.D. photos printed instantly. l Plus In-store Digital Photo Printing. l Also you can re order your prescription in advance for collection at a time that suits you.
Opening hours Mon – Fri 9am -6pm (Lunch 1.30pm-2pm) Saturday 9am -5pm (Open all day)
Main St, Taghmon. l 053 9134194 l Fax 053 9134905 l odm@localpharmacy.ie
JOHN KENT Engineering
For all your engineering needs and supplies
• Hydraulic Hose Repairs • Engine Oil • Hydraulic Oil • Gear Oil • Coolant /Anti Freeze • Grease-tubes/cans • Sheer Grab Parts/Loader Tines
• PTO Repairs & PTO Ends • Trailer repairs • lights and springs • Seals and Bearings • General Engineering Gates, Railings & custom Requirements
kentcamross@hotmail.com
087 8524408
MJ’s Auto Services For all your service Requirements
• Diagnostic and air conditioning services and repair. • DOE adn NCT Preparation and testing service. • Mobile AirCon Service unit for all Agri and Plant Service and Repairs. Poulpeasty, Taghmon, Wexford • 086 8730271 • mjsautoservices@yahoo.ie
COLMAN DOYLE HOMESTORE SOUTH MAIN STREET, WEXFORD
COMPLETE HOME FURNISHERS & BEST VALUE IN TOWN FOR FURNITURE, FABRICS, LIGHTING AND ACCESSORIES
NEW RANGE OF WALLPAPER NOW IN STOCK l
053 9142084
MORE QUALITY MORE SAVINGS • 053 9134545 Ladies Fashion – Knitwear, tops, trousers, skirts, jackets, handbags, scarves, “Playtex” underwear & “Marie Claire” tights & accessories. Babywear – gifts for new baby & children up to 2 yrs in stock. Irish made blankets and Cardigans Household – Sheets, towels, and duvets Menswear – A range of knitwear, socks, pyjamas, ideal for gifts. Schoolwear – Full range of Taghmon and Caroreigh National School uniforms available all year round As we celebrate 25 yrs in business we would like to say a huge thank you to all our customers for their loyal support over the years and for shopping local.
Ann’s Clothes Shop Main St, Taghmon Co Wexford 053 9134545
Est 1987
Offering practical accounts advice to Sole Traders, Partnerships & Limited Companies
Call (053) 913 4097
for a free, no obligation and strictly confidential consultation Services provided
l Income Tax Returns l Corporation Tax Returns l Full Book-keeping Service l Full Payroll Service l VAT Returns & Payroll Returns
l ROS Returns Service l Rental Computations l Management Accounts l End Of Year Final Accounts l Sound Business Advice & Direction
“Because our business is here to help yours� The Old School House, Taghmon, Co. Wexford Tel: (053) 913 4097
Stanville Lodge Hotel u Bar Food served from 12.30 pm Daily u Sunday Carvery Lunch from 12.30 pm u Excellent Wedding packages Available u All Major Sporting Events shown in O’Nuaills Bar u Ideal Venue for Christenings/Wedding Anniversaries/Birthday Parties Communion/Confirmation Lunches & much more Stanville Lodge Hotel Barntown, Co Wexford Tel 053-9134300 Fax 053-9134989 email info@stanville.ie www.stanville.ie
Stanville Lodge Hotel ‘Where Memories Are Made’
CLLR. PAT CODD Taghmon is a parish steeped in history and has made a significant contribution to the life of Co Wexford. But while the parish is proud of its great history, it is also gearing for the challenges of the future. Taghmon is in many respects a self-contained unity with all the resources available that would be associated with bigger towns. Our achievement over the last few years have been amazing, such as the building of the new childcare facility, Taghmon Action Group offices and the new training centre. Organisations such as TAG, FRC, Teach Spraoi, Day Care Centre, Tidy Towns Organisation, Community Centre, Passion Play, The Tops and the ICA (Taghmon and Camross Guilds) are the driving force of our parish. Not forgetting the different sporting organisations that have made a great contribution to the quality of life in our community. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Wexford County Council, Wexford Local Development and other agencies who have helped us over the years. “By working together we have achieved great things and will continue to do so�
working together we can achieve a lot
‘You can travel west to Galway or north to Donegal, But near the old Forth Mountain there’s a place to beat them all, As you hear the fountain bubbling, when the evening’s work is done, You can drink your pint, in peace of mind in the village of Taghmon.’ Tom Williams