Slaney News
ServiNg Co. wexford for the laSt 11 yearS
Issue 137 October 2021
Rosslare’s strategic importance emphasised by Taoiseach’s visit Rosslare port is a vital asset for Ireland in response to Brexit and can expect huge future investment which will support the local economy and job creation. Taoiseach Micheál Martin took the opportunity on today’s visit (1st October) to check out the port and other local facilities.
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October – December 2021
OCTOBER
• Linkedln for Business Clinic 09/11/21
• Introduction to Google Analytics 05/10/21
• How to Get Paid on Time Clinic 11/11/21
• Customer Service & Complaints Handling 05/10/21
• Tax & VAT for Start-Up Businesses 12/11/21
• Trading Online Voucher Seminar 06/10/21
• Branding for Success 15/11/21
• Business Advice Clinic 07/10/21
• Website Advice Clinic 16/11/21
• Social Media for SME's 07/10/21
• Social Media for Tourism Businesses 17/11/21
• Management of Stress 11/10/21
• Canva for Social Media 17/11/21
• Brexit Clinic 12/10/21
• Business Advice Clinic 18/11/21
• Advanced Presentation Skills Workshop 12/10/21
• Win-Win Negotiations 23/11/21
• Sales & Marketing Clinic 13/10/21
• Working with WordPress Advanced 24/11/21
• Business Advice Clinic 14/10/21
• Sales Skills - Selling in a Virtual World 30/11/21
• Create Christmas Themed Marketing Videos 15/10/21 • Business/Finance Clinic 18/10/21 • Introduction to E-Mail Marketing 19/10/21 • Facebook for Business Clinic 21/10/21 • QQI Training Delivery & Evaluation 22/10/21 • Mastering Time Management 26/10/21 • Successful Cash Collection by Telephone 27/10/21 • lnstagram for Business 28/10/21
NOVEMBER • Introduction to Search Engine Optimisation 02/11/21 • Costing & Pricing Your Product or Service 02/11/21 • Facebook for Business - Advanced 03/11/21 • Trading Online Voucher Seminar 03/11/21 • Podcasting for Business 03/11/21 • Food Starter Programme 09/11/21
Page 2 - 1st October 2021
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We are delighted to announce our office can once again welcome constituents for face to face advice & support. By appointment only and Covid-19 public health advice compliance.
Tel: 087 1142100. Email: Johnny.Mythen@oireachtas.ie Constituency Office Slaney Place Enniscorthy Co. Wexford Y21 T8K7
Contents of this issue of Slaney News... News Food & Drink Business & Finance Pets Motoring Leisure Sport Arts History & Heritage Environment
page 4 page 46 page 56 page 60 page 62 page 67 page 84 page 90 page 99 page 104
We would be delighted to receive stories and photos from our readers around the county. If you have anything you’d like us to share, please email slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as many photos and stories as possible.
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TEL: 053-9255219 - RATHNURE - ENNISCORTHY 1st October 2021 - Page 3
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comment Welcome to the October issue of the online-only Slaney News. It may only be the beginning of October but already it looks like the countdown to Christmas has begun! We’ve tried to keep Christmas content to a minimum in this issue but there’s no escaping the recent launch of the wonderful Santa’s Enchanted Castle at Enniscorthy Castle. Booking is now open, see pages 14-15 to find out more. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– A big change we’ve noticed in recent weeks is the huge increase in social, cultural and entertainment events now happening around the county. We have approx 25 pages in this issue covering lots of these events. After being deprived of organised entertainment for so long due to Covid, it’s great to get back out again and enjoy all that Co. Wexford has to offer. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– A working group has been established by Enniscorthy Municipal District to prepare the town apply for capital funding including URDF – Urban Regeneration and Development Funding. The focus of the group is on developing an urban design and regeneration plan for Enniscorthy town centre that will support future applications for State funding and assist with and inform the preparation of the next Enniscorthy Local Area Plan. A design team was appointed in August and has commenced work. The development of the regeneration plan will include 5 stages: Stage 1 – Data gathering, surveys and review of existing studies and reports; Stage 2 – Develop the vision and principles for regeneration; Stage 3 – Develop the urban regeneration strategy; Stage 4 – Develop urban regeneration projects and actions; Stage 5 – Implementation plan and final report. The plan is expected to take 25 weeks to complete fully with initial consultation planned for late October. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our new format. Tel: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page: “Slaney News”. And, of course, if you like the new format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you. – Frank Corcoran
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To advertise in the Slaney News please contact: 087-2403310 SLANEY NEWS, CLONHASTON, ENNISCORTHY Tel: 087-2403310 Email: slaneynews@gmail.com www.slaneynews.com Facebook: Slaney News Online: www.issuu.com/slaneynews/docs PUBLISHED in Enniscorthy by Corcoran Print & Design Disclaimer: Slaney News reserves the right to accept or reject any advertisement submitted for publication. Slaney News does not attempt to investigate or verify claims made in advertisements appearing in our publication. The appearance of an advertisement in this publication in no way implies endorsement or approval by us of any advertising claims or of the advertiser, its product, or services. Slaney News disclaims any liability whatsoever in connection with advertising appearing in this publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that all articles published in Slaney News are true and accurate but if any errors do occur please let us know and we will gladly rectify them in our next issue. Where details of future events are given in this publication, we recommend that you check these details directly with the organisers as event details may be subject to change. Slaney News strongly recommends seeking independent professional advice before acting on any financial, medical or other information contained in this publication.
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Gaelscoil Communion
Enniscorthy Gaelscoil First Communion in St. Senan’s church on Saturday 18th September: L-R: Deirdre, Ciara, Brian and Laura Kehoe.
Staff of Doyle Fielding Chartered Accountants, Abbey Sq, Enniscorthy, doing their Hope & Dream walk, L-R: Lorraine Dempsey, Samantha Byrne, Eugene Doyle, Avril Carr and Margaret Roche, and of course ‘Brooklyn’ – the four-legged participant.
Page 6 - 1st October 2021
Paul Kehoe TD striding out for Hope and Dream 10 in his native Bree on 20th September.
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1st October 2021 - Page 7
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New Bishop of Ferns installed Fr Ger Nash was installed in St Aidan’s Cathedral, Enniscorthy, on 5th September, as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Ferns. The principal ordaining bishop was Most Rev Dermot Farrell, Archbishop of Dublin, assisted by Most Rev Denis Brennan, Bishop Emeritus of Ferns, and Most Rev Fintan Monahan, Bishop of Killaloe. Bishop Ger, the 81st Catholic Bishop of Ferns, succeeds Bishop Denis Brennan who had been in the role since 2006 and whose resignation was accepted by Pope Francis last year when he turned 75. In his homily, Fr Billy Swan, Administrator of Wexford Parish, noted how St Senan arrived in Enniscorthy fifteen centuries before his fellow Clare man, Bishop Nash. “In the sixth century, about 100 years after Christianity first came to Ireland, a young man arrived here in Enniscorthy from Scattery Island at the mouth of the River Shannon in Co Clare. There he founded a monastery, and when he arrived in Wexford, he founded another settlement that became known as Teampeall Senáin or ‘the Church of Senan’ from which comes the name ‘Templeshannon’ that we have today. Saint Senan was a contemporary of Saint Aidan and they knew each other well. “Almost fifteen centuries later, another Clare man has arrived here, not on his own initiative, but in response to a call to come and serve as our bishop, to follow in the
Episcopal ordination of Fr Ger Nash as the new Bishop of Ferns in St Aidan’s Cathedral on 5th September, 2021. Pic John Mc Elroy. footsteps of Saint Senan and become the successor of Saint Aidan.”
first came here. Yet, he trusted in God and because he did, his ministry was fruitful.”
Fr Swan added, “Monsignor Ger, we do not know how the journey that you begin today will all work out, for we walk by faith and not by sight. The challenges are many, the ongoing impact of Covid-19 being one of them. But I am sure Saint Senan did not know how it would all go either when he
62-year-old Bishop Nash is originally from the parish of Tulla in Co. Clare and was ordained in 1991. Since then he has held numerous positions within the Church including Secretary of Killaloe Diocese and Director of Pastoral Development for that diocese. The outgoing Bishop of Ferns, Denis Brennan, has warmly welcomed Bishop Nash's appointment as his successor as Bishop of Ferns. “I know that the people of Ferns, priests, religious, and lay faithful will welcome him too, and make him feel at home in their midst. I heartily congratulate him on his appointment and trust that he will be happy in his new surroundings in the southeast. I wish to assure him that I will be available to assist him in any way I can as he gets to know the diocese and its people as Bishop in the weeks and months ahead.” Bishop Brennan said that his successor begins his ministry in Ferns at a time which poses "many choices and challenges for the Church but at a time which is also blessed by possibility". Bishop Nash said, “I am privileged to be chosen by Pope Francis to lead this historic diocese and I feel very humbled.”
Bishop Ger Nash with his two sisters Teresa and Margaret. Pic John Mc Elroy.
Page 8 - 1st October 2021
I sith agus muintearas Iosa (in the peace and companionship of Jesus) was chosen as the East Clare man’s episcopal motto. n
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You can now bank on Enniscorthy Credit Union! The management and staff at Enniscorthy Credit Union are thrilled that their MYCU Debit Mastercard and current account are now operating. This means that members have full banking services available to them from Enniscorthy Credit Union which is now effectively a one-stop-shop for all banking services. The MYCU Debit Mastercard is accepted globally wherever one sees the Mastercard acceptance mark. It can be used to withdraw cash, pay bills, pay at point of sale or online, nationally and internationally. An overdraft facility is also available to members who would like to apply for one. Fees are applicable but Marketing Manager Áine Doyle tells us that “they are kept as low as possible, easy to understand, and students and members over 66 qualify for concession banking”. So would you rather bank with Enniscorthy Credit Union? Well, now you can! Apply through Enniscorthy Credit Union online banking, Enniscorthy CU App, or in any of its branches. For more information on fees and terms and conditions: https://www.enniscorthycu.ie/mycu/ n
Enniscorthy Credit Union Scholarship Draw One can still apply for the Enniscorthy Credit Union Scholarship draw with thousands of euro to be won! To enter you need to be a member of Enniscorthy Credit Union and be in any year in college or doing a PLC. Application forms are available to download or you can collect one in any Enniscorthy Credit Union office: Enniscorthy, Ballymurn, Murrintown or Taghmon. All applications must be returned fully completed by 4.00pm on the closing date of October 30th 2021. See: https://www.enniscorthycu.ie/scholarship-draw/ n Hope & Dream 10 celebrated its 10th birthday last month and Enniscorthy Credit Union was honoured, on behalf of its members, to sponsor the race t-shirts again this year and play its part in raising much needed funds for this fantastic cause. For anyone who would like to donate, there are collection boxes in Enniscorthy Credit Union Offices or donate online: https://www.hopeanddream10.com/payment_form/onlinepayment-form/ And a reminder that managing your money is at your fingertips with the Enniscorthy CU Mobile app. Just search 'Enniscorthy CU' on the App Store or Google Play Store. And if you’re not a member, no problem, you can join using the App too! n
Page 12 - 1st October 2021
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‘What about us?’ Gorey District Councillors Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin and Andrew Bolger giving the thumbs-up to Wexford Town’s proposed Trinity Wharf development, and hoping Courtown will be the next coastal area in Co. Wexford to benefit from substantial public investment.
1st October 2021 - Page 13
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Santa’s Enchanted Castle is returning to Enniscorthy Enniscorthy Municipal District in partnership with Enniscorthy Castle, Enniscorthy & District Chamber and Rathnure Pantomime Society are delighted to confirm Santa’s Enchanted Castle is returning to Enniscorthy for Christmas 2021. In the planning since August, the town’s festive season is sure to be a winner with locals and winter tourists. The event will return to its base in the Castle from Saturday 27th November until Thursday December 23rd. The popular children’s event will operate Thursdays to Sundays before a festive finale Christmas Eve afternoon in Market Square. General sale tickets went live on Saturday 25th September online through www.santasenchantedcastle.ie and ‘sleep over’ packages including entry tickets on sale direct from the event’s hotel partner – the Riverside Park Hotel. “Come to Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, this Christmas for a magical festive time. You will be guaranteed Christmas cheer and a great offering in the Castle and indeed about the town streets,” says Bernie Quigley, Enniscorthy Municipal District Acting Manager. “We expect hotel ‘sleep over’ packages to prove extremely popular this season, it is important we attract visitors to the banks of the Slaney to bolster the local economy while also lifting the spirits of our townspeople. Event and patron safety will be our main priority along with ensuring we present an entertaining event reflective of the magic of Christmas.” Patrons can check-in for Christmas at Santa HQ in the Castle to be entertained by enchanted characters and the
Page 14 - 1st October 2021
SlaNey NewS Enniscorthy Elves over three magical thematic floors. Children will then be gifted by Santa and Mrs Claus from their winter grotto wonderland. The forty-five minute tour is priced at twenty euro with babies less than twelve months going free with a paying adult. New for 2021, will be a static switching on of the town Christmas lights and trees at seven o’clock on Friday 26th November with a special seasonal guest to lead an entertaining countdown from the stage on Castle Hill. Cllr Cathal Byrne, Chair of Enniscorthy Municipal District, commented, "Christmas will be more important this year than ever before as we have a chance to gather and celebrate it in public. I am heartened to see so many groups working together with the Council, Chamber and organisers to have Enniscorthy light up and ready for Christmas.” The festival committee urge all to keep an eye on local press for further announcements and, during the countdown, to click onto the Santa’s Enchanted Castle website or Facebook page for event competitions and updates. Enniscorthy certainly has the Christmas experience festively wrapped up for 2021! n
Cllr Cathal Byrne (right) Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District, with local elves and children at the launch of Santa’s Enchanted Castle in Enniscorthy.
Opening ecial: Weekend Sp €15 Tickets only 7th 2 er b Novem th 8 2 d an
1st October 2021 - Page 15
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Left: Jayden, Jimmy, Lacey Mai, Aoife and Keslan Redmond. Above: Peg, Emma, Ethan, Eamonn and Seán Doyle. Right: Kacia, Tara, Lucy Giltrap-Murphy and Jason Giltrap.
St Senan’s First Hol ENNISCORTHY 25TH SEPTEMBER 2021 Left: Sean, Sean óg, Andrea and Lochlainn Davitt. Right: Suzanne, Lexie and PJ Bourke. Below left: Kevin Walsh, Kayleigh Laffan and Bridget Walsh. Below centre: Nickey, Caroline and Sadie Carroll. Below right: Laura, Kelly and Philip O’Brien.
Page 16 - 1st October 2021
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Four top pics L-R: 1. Tony and Joe Kenny, Ellie and Linda Cowman. 2. Alex Rostro, Fernando, Gabriel and Maria Guedes. 3. John, Hughie and Kathleen Connors. 4. Mary and Lexi O’Brien, and Martin Cash.
Left: Kaitlin, Sharron, Mark and M J Dobbs. Above: Calum, Alex, Orla and David O’Sullivan. Right: Charlie, Conor and Linda McKeown. Far right: Andy, Harry and Kerry Monaghan. Four pics below L-R: 1. Roiseen Doyle, Patrick O’Brien, Kian Walsh, Kayleigh and Mary Furlong. 2. Dominic and Isabel Furlong and Bernie Earle. 3. James, Muireana, Seamus, Martina, Conor Kavanagh, and Mary and Seamus Dobbs. 4. Brian, Sarah and Janice Whelan.
1st October 2021 - Page 17
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Minister visits community initiatives Joe O’Brien TD, Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development & Department of Social Protection, visited projects and community initiatives supported by his Departments in Co. Wexford on Tuesday 7th and Wednesday 8th of September. The Minister’s visit started in Rosslare Community & Sports Centre where he met local community workers, he then went on to Rosslare Accommodation Centre where he met with staff and residents. Speaking after his visit to the accommodation centre the Minister said: “The Wexford Local Development social inclusion team have fostered good relations between the local community in Rosslare and the residents of the centre... It is clear from what I have seen during my visit that there are huge positives for international protection accommodation residents and locals when integration is handled as well as it has been here in Rosslare.” The Minister then went on to visit: Rosslare Harbour / Kilrane Environment Group. Kilrane / Rosslare Harbour Men’s Shed.
Riverchapel Community Complex: Joe O’Brien TD, Minister of State (centre), and Minister James Browne TD get a lesson on the BMX track from a local expert.
Wexford Local Development’s Cornmarket Project. Wexford Volunteer Centre. Southend Family Resource Centre & Sail Training Centre. The Rocks Walking Trail in Maudlintown. On the second day of his visit, the Minister visited the Fab Lab and Community Meals on Wheels in Enniscorthy. He then went on to visit a local tillage farm to see how farmers are working with Teagasc on the Signpost Programme. The primary objective of the programme is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 15% by 2025 on the Signpost Farms and by 2030 for all farms.
Speaking about his visit to Wexford, Minister O’Brien said: “It has been great to visit Wexford and see first-hand the great work that communities are carrying out with the support of the Departments of Rural and Community Development and Social Protection and with broader Government support.... The projects I visited are indicative of the resourcefulness of local communities in identifying an issue and developing a plan to address it and enhance all aspects of the community.” n
Later in the day the Minister visited:
Minister of State Joe O’Brien TD (centre) with Ben Bernie (Kilcannon Industries) and Helena Dempsey (Wexford Local Development). Kilcannon is a fantastic model of how a Social Enterprise is successfully developed with assistance from Wexford Local Development through the LEADER Programme.
Page 18 - 1st October 2021
Community projects in Ferns Village. Kilcannon Garden Centre, a social enterprise that provides employment opportunities for people with disabilities; and Fresh Today, Enniscorthy, a catering company supplying over 10,000 school lunches daily to over 80 DEIS schools in the south east region. The Minister’s two-day visit concluded with a visit to Riverchapel Community Complex – a multi-faceted community resource in the Courtown area.
Minister of State Joe O’Brien TD gives the new Medieval Ferns Experience the ‘thumbs-up’.
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Scoil Naomh Maodhóg Ferns First Communion, Saturday 11th September, at Ferns Church. Zac Breen arrived in his father’s 1970 Opel Manta.
Santa returning soon to Enniscorthy
Opening ecial: Weekend Sp €15 Tickets only 7th November 2 and 28th
Santa’s Enchanted Castle is returning to Enniscorthy for Christmas 2021. See full story on page 14. 1st October 2021 - Page 19
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L-R: Having a great time in Min Ryan Park Wexford was Ruby Kinsella. Maya Scovron and Maeve White. Pumping away was Levi Binnons. Adam Bennett and Saoirse Lynch.
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WHO IS THE REAL KEEPER OF THE LONG KNIVES? FIANNA FÁIL is in the most stickiest of times right now. Struggling to lift itself off a 20% low poll, it has languished badly in the polls for a long time. In the heady days, it rarely dipped under 40%. It has tried to rebrand and be more modern since the global crash. The crash that still scars the party and its mojo. There was a purge of the old guard, mostly by the public at election times, to make the product more relevant to modern times. In recent times it has championed many liberal causes. They have thrown the kitchen sink at it to look connected to the public, so why does 80% of the public still feel not connected enough to support them and what happens next?
TOWN TALK
I am aware of disquiet in the grass roots for a long time. Going into government with FINE GAEL still has its dissenters as it cut off the choice of being in opposition, rebuilding and maintaining its clear identity. Only in the last few weeks I have learned of an email circulating between FIANNA FÁIL councillors in WEXFORD outlining their disquiet and calling for changes. I am sure these discussions are taking place in huddles far wider than this county. It would, in the most part, be a stand for self preservation but there are bigger agendas at play.
WITH KEITH DOYLE party. That is a code for back to the old guard. Power is the goal here and a change of leader is the prize. The problem for them is timing. MICHEÁL MARTIN has no intention of going anywhere while he is TAOISEACH in this coalition and he commands a high rating in the polls and the support of the majority of the parliamentary party. He has a high individual satisfaction polling of 49%. This does keep the wolf from his door. For now!
There is a minority movement, within the party, to get back to the core values of the
FIANNA FÁIL are masters of the coup. Only surpassed by the KREMLIN and per-
haps GAME OF THRONES. What we are seeing unfold is like a classic game of poker – the early hands to set the tone were played by ÉAMON Ó CUÍV and JOHN McGUINNESS. We have seen some of the new novice players dabbling in some of the small pots like JIM O’CALLAGHAN and MARC MacSHARRY who went all in with very little return. We have some players getting blisters sitting on the fence, not betting on any hand, but will have to show their hand eventually. Like any good game, the significant hands will be dealt late in the night by the big names. They feel hard done by and would like to see the game played the old style in the smoke-filled rooms again. It’s the way their mamma and pappa and brothers and sisters played it. When BARRY COWEN and DARA CALLEARY play their hands the real game is on, but not for a year or two. As we head to the twilight of this coalition, when the next election creeps over the horizon, they will sway some of the juniors with the splinters in their backsides off the fence. WHY? At the right time numbers will focus minds and the big number that will be thrown on the table is 17. 17 is the number of FIANNA FÁIL TDs who were returned to the DÁIL on the last seat. A third of the party in the corridors of power walking with a nervous twitch. There are many hands to play in this game yet. n
Some players are getting blisters sitting on the fence... but will have to show their hand eventually.
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Draft County Development Plan 2021-2027 A Special Meeting of Wexford County Council was held on Monday 6th September 2021 in The Street, County Hall, Wexford County Council, in relation to the Draft County Development Plan 2021–2027. A couple of motions in relation to Enniscorthy were debated. Cllr Cathal Byrne succeeded in having an amendment inserted in the plan containing a commitment on the development and implementation of an urban regeneration and renewal plan for the town centre of Enniscorthy in 2022. Senior executive planner Diarmuid Houston referred to such a plan as a ‘work in progress’ and was glad of Cllr Byrne’s support. Cllr Aidan Browne proposed that Enniscorthy’s proposed 30% population growth over the next 20 years be frontloaded during the period of the 20212027 plan ‘in order to secure a critical mass of population to support its strategic growth and development as a large town’. Cllr Jackser Owens spoke in support of Cllr Browne’s motion. But senior executive planner Diarmuid Houston did not
Enniscorthy Municipal District Fine Gael Councillors at recent Wexford County Council meeting: Kathleen Codd-Nolan (left), Cathal Byrne (right).
support the motion as it would mean a faster rise in the population of Enniscorthy, compared to other towns, which would not be desirable, and also it would mean taking population growth from another area and allocating it to Enniscorthy. He said that Wexford Co. Council was working to ensure that the economic development of the town proceeds faster than its population growth. Zoning and other methods are being used to ensure a pace of economic development that allows the town to develop properly. Director of Services Tony Larkin suggested a compromise – that the popu-
lation of Enniscorthy be reviewed in a few years time as part of an overall review of the county development plan. Cllr Browne agreed with this compromise and the motion was not put to a vote. The Council decided by a 17-8 majority to continue with the draft County Development Plan process. The draft document is due for a second round of public consultation late this month, before returning to councillors for formal adoption next January. The Plan will cover a seven-year period and will form the basis for the area plans for Enniscorthy, Wexford, New Ross and Gorey. n
Above left: Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, in the chair. Above right: Cllrs Jackser Owens (left) and Lisa McDonald (right).
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World Suicide Prevention Day Memorial Tree planting in Drumgoold, Enniscorthy on World Suicide Prevention Day (10th September, 2021).
A number of events took place recently to mark World Suicide Prevention Day (10th of September) with a particular emphasis on Traveller Mental Health.
bons and tied them to the tree. Later in the evening, the tree was blessed as part of a small, socially distant outdoor Mass and the tree was surrounded by lights.
The various activities in counties Carlow, Kilkenny, South Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford were supported by HSE/South East Community Healthcare (SECH).
Speaking at the Memorial Tree event in Drumgoold, Mary Byrne (Traveller Mental Health Co-ordinator, HSE/South East Community Healthcare) said: “Latest figures show that suicide accounts for 11% of all Traveller deaths and that the suicide rate is seven times the national average for Traveller men and six times the national average for Traveller women. Every death by suicide is a tragic and devastating event that impacts on the lives of so many people. We are all part of communities
One of the highlights in Co. Wexford was the planting of a memorial tree at Drumgoold, Enniscorthy. In an initiative sponsored by the Ferns Diocesan Youth Service (FDYS) and supported by HSE/South East Community Healthcare, Travellers in the local community wrote names of lost loved ones on yellow rib-
which link us to friends, family, colleagues and/or neighbours. A sense of community is very important for maintaining our mental health and helps foster a supportive network for everyone, especially for those going through tough times." If you, a member of your family, or someone you know is in distress or needs someone to talk to, help, support and advice are available. In the first instance contact your GP, if it is late in the evening or at the weekend call CAREDOC on (0818) 300 365. If you or someone is in immediate danger go to the Emergency Department of your nearest hospital or call the Emergency Services on 999 or 112. n
WEXFORD LOCAL DEVELOPMENT – SMART VILLAGES TRAINING Ready your community for the next LEADER Programme with Smart Villages Training. Remaining Training Dates: New Ross - 2nd Nov to 14th Dec, 7-9pm every Tuesday.
Enniscorthy - 3rd Nov to 15th Dec, 79pm every Wednesday. The programme will support groups to consider innovative opportunities to enhance their village and form these ideas into a structured development plan. This
development plan will ready groups to apply for funding under the next LEADER Programme in 2023. For more information, check out: https://www.wld.ie/2021/07/21/ smart-villages-training/ n
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Community Park for Caim Caim Community Development Group has just been granted planning permission to construct a community park consisting of a children's playground, green space with seating area, roadside parking and pedestrian entrance, all with associated site works. n
Enniscorthy Trails A funding application was submitted to the Department of Rural and Community Development on the 7th July, 2021. The project is to resurface the entire 3km Enniscorthy riverside trail by the Slaney, and resurface a track around the Urrin River up to St John’s Bridge – a 600m loop. This will allow wheelchairs and disabled users access around the Urrin footbridge. It is expected that funding will be announced in November and that the Enniscorthy Trails project will be included. n
Enniscorthy Water Dispensers Enniscorthy Municipal District will be installing drinking-water dispensers in a number of locations: Bunclody - Bree - Promenade, Enniscorthy 21 Steps, Templeshannon - Doyle’s corner, Enniscorthy It is expected that they will be installed later this month. n
Active Travel Funding
The Bygone Days Storytelling House in Oulart is starting a new weekly market commencing on Sunday, 3rd of October, 10am to 2pm. There may still be some places available so any local entrepreneurs who are looking for a place to sell their homemade and handcrafted products or homegrown produce should make contact. Email: bygonedayshouseofstories@gmail.com or contact Eileen Dempsey on 087 9116695. See also the Facebook page ‘Bygone Days Storytelling House’. n
The Right to Be a Reader Every child in every school in Co. Wexford has the Right to Be a Reader and the upcoming budget must make this happen, according to Deputy Paul Kehoe TD. Deputy Kehoe says, “Every piece of research into childhood development shows that reading really matters. Reading is linked to improved wellbeing, cognitive development, increased literacy and academic self-confidence. Reading has the power to change childrens’ lives for the better and I am calling on the Minister to restore the full budget for grant funding for primary schools to keep their libraries fully stocked. This budget was cut in 2008 and has never been restored. As a result, fewer children have ready access to excellent, modern books. Many schools rely on donations to provide this essential resource. Allocating €10 for every primary school child in the country to help schools buy books (including audio and picturebooks) would require a Budget allocation of €5.68m, which, as with every investment in our children, would pay the state back exponentially into the future. n
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Local Minister James Browne TD says the funding announced last month of €2.31m for Active Travel transport improvements in Co. Wexford shows the Government commitment to upgrading existing amenities and making cycling or walking a viable alternative option for people. The announcement raises the total allocation to County Wexford for 2021 to €5.91m. He commented, “€2,310,008 will be invested in seven projects across County Wexford. This funding will deliver a number of safe cycling and walking options. This will enhance the amenities on offer in the county to both residents and tourists.“ Enniscorthy and Gorey will receive footpath improvement scheme funding totalling €355,000 and €275,000 respectively. Meanwhile, €71,500 will be focused on the development of a cycle scheme along the old N11 (R772). €280,758 will go towards a new footpaths package while €315,750 will be directed towards the improvement of pedestrian schemes across the county. A Wexford town-based scheme for school walking and cycling infrastructure will receive a grant of €142,000 while the Roxborough cycle scheme has received €870,000 in funding. “I look forward to seeing all these projects progress over the coming year,” concluded Minister Browne. n
Enniscorthy Sports Hub It is expected that a tender notice for major works including changing-room facilities will be advertised over the next couple of weeks with the contract being awarded before Christmas 2021. It is hoped that works will then commence on site in early 2022. Fine Gael Councillor Kathleen Codd-Nolan was among those who expressed disappointment that the Enniscorthy Sports Hub project is now running behind the original schedule. n
SlaNey NewS HOLIDAY SEASON As the Summer season comes to a close, it is time for a little reflection. According to all reports, the south east and Co. Wexford in particular did particularly well with home tourism this year. The covid crisis of course contributed to this but one of the few, if not the only, benefits of covid is that it encouraged more people to see our own country. Ireland has a huge amount to offer. Our hotels, restaurants, cafes and pubs are second to none. Anyone who has travelled can verify that. Of course there is a cost element and debate. This is because the cost of doing business in Ireland is so high in comparison to most European countries. For instance, our commercial rates are far higher, our insurance costs are massively higher (it is possible to insure a restaurant in Berlin for public and employer liability 75% cheaper than in a village in Co. Wexford), dare I say it but our wages are higher than most other European countries for doing specific jobs, and I could go on and on. However, having said all that, and now that we have seen more of our own country, let us hope that even after travel restrictions are lifted that we see more Irish people stay at home for at least each alternate year. I know I will.
WALKING TRAILS On a similar theme of recreation, Wexford Co. Council and many voluntary groups around the county must be credited with the wonderful attraction of the relatively recently installed walking trails. There are about a dozen of these in different parts of the county and they are easily accessible and easily walked for those of us who have passed the first flush of youth. I’m not going to mention them individually as the information can be got from Wexford Co. Council website. I know that not all older people have access to the internet
View from the Centre
A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond but some younger person might look it up for you, and when you find the nearest or handiest one for your needs, get out there and enjoy it.
HISTORY I did a little historical piece on Ferrycarrig Bridge last month which went down well. So I had a look again at the Wexford Co. Council Archives which has all this information. I came across the following piece from 1930 which
will interest Enniscorthy readers. It concerned the Courthouse and goes as follows: Mr. Whealan, the caretaker, wrote to the Council on the 2nd of October 1930 asking the councillors, who then had major powers unlike our councillors of today who have no powers, asking that the electricity supply be extended to his living quarters within the Courthouse. His argument was that during sittings of the court, prisoners were held in the rooms of his residence as holding cells (that would be lovely in your house) so therefore he felt that he was entitled to the connection. He would of course pay for the supply himself once it was installed. This we would imagine to be a humanitarian issue which would get unanimous approval. But no. There were seven councillors at the meeting. It was proposed by Councillor O’Byrne and seconded by Councillor Shannon that Mr. Whealan’s request be granted and this proposal received three votes. It was then proposed by Councillor Culleton and seconded by Councillor Hall that Mr. Whealan’s request be refused. This received four votes. So, Mr. Whealan was denied this very basic service. Nice lads weren’t they. Maybe there was a reason after all to take away some of the powers held by councillors!
CRUELTY OF SPORT
Sport can be as cruel as politics. We’ve all seen British football managers go from hero to absolute target of hatred over the result of a few football games. A similar situation, “Bottom line is this, without the venom, now the American applies in some quarters to golfers were better Padraig Harrington as a reover the few days sult of Europe’s defeat in the and our lads just didn’t match up...” Ryder Cup. Before he left for the US he was the golden boy of the media. Come the bad result and every expert writing about golf is pointing out how badly he got it wrong. Bottom line is this, the American golfers were better over the few days and our lads just didn’t match up to the skills shown by them. It wasn’t their fault, or Harrington’s. They did their best and couldn’t do any more. Simple as that. n
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Scoil Naomh Maodhóg Ferns First Holy Communion, Saturday 11th September 2021, at Ferns Church. Above left: Paula Walsh and Ryan Kuniard. Above centre: Jayden Ryan with Fr. Paddy Cushin PP. Above right: Millie, Trish, Anthony and Tony Dwyer.
Ferns First Communion Scoil Naomh Maodhóg Ferns First Holy Communion, Saturday 11th September 2021, at Ferns Church Below left: Trevor Power, Tegan McCarthy Power and Emma McCarthy Power. Below centre: Dylan Quigley, Braxton and Sinetta Fortune. Below right: Richard, Emily and Anna McGuire.
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Scoil Naomh Maodhóg Ferns First Holy Communion, Saturday 11th September 2021, at Ferns Church. Above: Catriona, Ciara, Leah, Bert and Bob Denby. Above right: Claire O’Gorman, Emily and Adrian Dwyer. Below: Brian, Lena, Rowan and Christina Owens. Below right: Adelle, Liam, Aoife, Fergus and Daniel Fortune.
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Up the hill with Jack and Jill hugely on the support of the public for the continued provision of this critical service for so many families. The Up the Hill fundraising challenge is one of Jack & Jill’s key flagship fundraising endeavours, and the people of Wexford are being asked to continue their long-standing generosity and to lend their support to its work in whatever way they can this year. The campaign is part of Jack & Jill’s ‘Support Local, Donate Local’ drive, with all money raised supporNurse Joanne Doyle, Specialist Children's Liaison ting local Jack & Jill family Nurse, Jack & Jill Children's Foundation, who homes. supports Jack & Jill families in Co. Wexford. For Joanne Doyle, Jack & Jill People in Co. Wexford are being urged Specialist Children’s Liaison Nurse for to climb a hill this October and give WEXFORD, Up the Hill means so much to Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation a hill local families, who depend on the funds start by signing up for its ‘Up the Hill’ raised for their support: Fundraising Challenge. Funds raised will “To say that it has been a very tough 18 go to support 25 families in Co. Wexmonths for our Jack & Jill families is an ford. understatement. As one of the vulnerable We are all being asked to climb a hill in groups during the pandemic, our families solidarity with the 25 families it supports in have had to take refuge in order to keep Wexford who have an uphill challenge in themselves and, most importantly, their caring for their very sick child every day. children safe. It has been really tough. This is the seventh year of the nationwide Throughout this time, we have continued fundraising challenge which aims to raise to provide in-home support, across the funds for Jack & Jill’s specialist home nursgarden wall support, and over the phone ing care, respite support and end-of-life support. Last year, we provided over 6,200 care for very sick children up to the age of hours of support to families in Wexford. six. This support affords families the ‘Gift of Time’ to do things for themselves and Notwithstanding the pandemic, in 2020 other family members – whether it’s spendJack & Jill funded and delivered over ing some quality time with a sibling, grab94,000 hours of home nursing care to 376 bing a quick coffee with a friend, getting families, through a team of hundreds of some fresh air in the great outdoors, or nurses and carers in communities across simply taking a nap to recharge – it’s that the country. This was in addition to the time out which means that they can con25,000 hours of hands-on, case managetinue to spend time caring for their sick ment provided by the Jack & Jill core nurschild and doing what mums and dads do ing team, which is made up of 15 specialist best.” children’s liaison nurses. In 2020, Jack & Jill also extended the age range of children it For Carmel Doyle, CEO of the Jack & Jill supports by a year and that age extension Children’s Foundation, Up the Hill for Jack continues today, with children up to six & Jill couldn’t come at a better time: years of age receiving the vital care that “The past 18 months have been an uphill they need at home. Because, for a Jack & struggle for everyone and our Up the Hill Jill child, there is no care like home care. fundraising challenge is still a steep one. That’s why we’re depending on our circles With less than 20 per cent of Jack & Jill’s of family, friends and work colleagues to funding coming from Government, it relies
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take this challenge, which is all about community helping community, and to get together to take on their local hill for a good local cause. Jack & Jill had to keep going through COVID, just like the families we support, but we couldn’t do what we do without the support of the public and we are so proud to have extended our age range to six, a move so welcomed by family carers. Best of luck and thank you to everyone who is climbing a hill for Jack & Jill this October, and we look forward to seeing all the photos on social media!” Five Easy Steps to Climbing that Hill The Up the Hill for Jack & Jill fundraising challenge couldn’t be simpler, and these five easy steps will get you on the road! Step 1. Register your challenge at www.jackandjill.ie for just €18 – the cost of one hour of specialist home nursing care – and to receive an optional eco-friendly banner. You can also purchase a Jack & Jill beanie for €10 to make sure you stand out on the day! Step 2. Identify a location for your Up the Hill challenge – it can be in a local park, or it can be a peak on a nearby mountain – whatever hill works for your fitness level and ability. You can climb it, run it, walk it, cycle it – whatever works for you. Step 3. Recruit your family members, friends and work colleagues to join you, but remember to stay within public health guidance. Step 4. Decide on a date during the month of October that best suits your group and begin the countdown to let the excitement build. Step 5. The final frontier – grab your hill and go! Once the day arrives and you’ve conquered your personal Everest, stake your claim for Jack & Jill with your Up the Hill eco-friendly banner and take a picture to proclaim your achievement to the world on social media! For more information on the work of the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation, or to find out more about the Up the Hill for Jack & Jill fundraiser, visit www.jackandjill.ie or call Jack & Jill on 045 894538. n
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Enniscorthy Gaelscoil First Communion in St. Senan’s church, Saturday, 18th September. Above left: Ava Donegan. Above centre: The three amigos – Niall Fitzpatrick, MJ Russell and Tom Bates. Above right: Adrian, Lee and Caroline Kirwan.
Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh First Communion
Above left: Jacqueline de Roiste, Muintir de Roiste agus Mamo Anne O’Flynn. Above right: Jacqueline Roche, Leah Murphy and Ruth Hayes. Below left: John, Keela, Saoirse, Blanthnaid and Mary Fortune. Below right: Oisin, Gretta, Odhran and Stephen Tyrrell.
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First days in St Aidan’ FIRST DAYS AT SCHOOL AT ST AIDAN’S, ENNISCORTHY, SEPTEMBER 2021. Above left: Cormac and Jillian O’Neill. Above centre: Twins Alfie and Bobby O’Dwyer. Above right: Harvey Thorpe and Danielle Kelly. Left: John Paul, Marcedas and Dominic Maggar. Right: Kayle, Jayden and dad Aaron Maher. Below left: Arin, Shauna and Mason Murphy. Below centre: Zoltan and Danka Hortobagyi and Kinra Berta. Below right: Little Robyn Murphy had her sister Keeva to go to school with.
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’s Primary School, Enniscorthy FIRST DAYS AT SCHOOL AT ST AIDAN’S, ENNISCORTHY, SEPTEMBER 2021. Above left: Jack Dunne and Marita Roche. Above centre: Macey Lee. Above right: Noeleen Codd and Kaia Cosgrave. Left: Cousins Maisie Farman and Finn Kenny. Right: Thomas and Amber O’Brien. Below left: Louise O’Connor and Sadie Brogan. Below centre: Pa Carty, Erin and Soirse Furlong. Below right: Cian, Mark and Freya Brady.
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Family Night at the dog Enniscorthy Greyhound Stadium Sunday 29th August
Cora Day at the Family Night at Enniscorthy Dog Track on Sunday 29th August.
Family night at Enniscorthy Dog Track, Sunday, 29th August: Mary Quirke and Anne Marie Murphy. Johanne, Darragh and Sarah O’Connor.
Tina Doran and Katie Giltrap.
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Getting in a bit of colouring were Parker and Theo Fields. Right: Enjoying a ringside seat Daisey Frayne and Susan Nolan.
Above: Michael Dobbs, Lily Rose Dobbs and Delphine Richie. Below: Two men and their dog – Jimmy O’Reilly and John Brett with "Na Fianna Dubh". Above: Becky and Oscar Byrne. Below: Noel and Danny O’Brien.
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Psychiatric Nursing graduates honoured in Enniscorthy
Pictured at the HSE’s ceremony in the Wexford Mental Health Services offices in Enniscorthy, honouring graduates of WIT’s B.Sc. (Honours) in Psychiatric Nursing were Ursula O’Neill (Asst. Director of Nursing/Nurse Practice Development, Waterford/Wexford Mental Health Services), Marilyn Vereker (Clinical Placement Co-ordinator, Wexford Mental Health Services) and the course participants presented with certification at the ceremony: Caoimhe Denton, Megan Dobbs, Emma Flood, Sinead Griffith, Serena McCarthy, Shannon Moran, Emma O’Connor, Laura O’Neill, Jamie Roche and PJ Whelan.
Four years of study in Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT), featuring 80 weeks of clinical placements in HSE/South East Community Healthcare mental health services, was marked in five small ceremonies across the region last month for 50 graduates of WIT’s B.Sc. (Honours) in Psychiatric Nursing. Concluding their fourth year of the course and a 36 week continuous internship with HSE/South East Community Healthcare (SECH), 12 of the students were presented with their qualifications at the old church on the grounds of St. Otteran’s Hospital, Waterford. Similar occasions were hosted for 11 students at the Wexford Mental Health Services offices in Enniscorthy, 10 at St. Canice’s
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Hospital in Kilkenny, nine at St. Luke’s Hospital in Clonmel and eight at St. Dympna’s Hospital in Carlow. Having begun in September 2017, the 50 participants will now register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland as Psychiatric Nurses. David Heffernan (Head of Service/Mental Health, HSE/SECH), in offering his congratulations to all concerned, said: “This group of graduates have continued their training during the unprecedented times of pandemic and that they have contributed enormously to delivering the highest possible standards of care in mental health services throughout counties Carlow, Kilkenny, South Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford in that time. They have both our sincere appreciation
and admiration for their commitment. “Psychiatric/Mental Health nursing is a specialist field within the health care profession. It involves an interpersonal, caring process which acknowledges the uniqueness of each person. The Psychiatric Nurse is concerned with the promotion of mental health, the prevention of mental illness and the provision of care to those with mental health problems.” The ceremony in Enniscorthy was attended by SECH’s Waterford/Wexford mental health services area Director of Nursing Kasia Nolan and Nurse Practice Development Co-ordinator Ursula O’Neill (both of whom also attended in Waterford) and Wexford’s Clinical Placement Co-ordinator Marilyn Vereker. n
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Not Around Us! The purpose of the new ‘Not Around Us’ campaign in Wexford is fourfold: Helping to protect children and young people from second-hand smoke exposure.
Contributing to the de-normalisation of smoking for children and young people.
Raising awareness and support amongst all stakeholders in the county on tobacco/vape-free Ireland and everyone playing a part in supporting it.
Signposting to HSE Quit services.
Wexford’s countywide ‘Not Around Us’ campaign commenced last month with a call for young people and their supporting organisations to get involved in Healthy Wexford’s latest initiative to create outdoor smoke-andvape-free spaces for young people. The Wexford ‘Not Around Us’ initiative is an ask from young people to consider one’s behaviour when in places where they are. New ‘Not Around Us’ branding, signage and video material has been created by members of Wexford’s Comhairle na nÓg, supported by the campaign working group, chaired by Cllr John Hegarty, and including a range of high profile collaborating organisations. Not Around Us in Wexford is a partnership and collaboration led by Healthy Wexford and supported by Wexford County Council, the HSE, Wexford Children and Young Person Services, WWETB, Wexford LCDC, FDYS, Sports Active Wexford, Wexford GAA, Leinster Rugby, Wexford FAI and Wexford’s Comhairle na nÓg. The initiative is funded by the Healthy Ireland Fund, with additional support from Wexford Co. Council.
Wexford Co. Council Chairperson Barbara-Anne Murphy with Not Around Us Chairman Cllr John Hegarty, and Comhairle na nÓg members Rían and Cillian Doyle, and Cassie and Abigail Hegarty.
Annette Dupuy, Wexford County Council’s Healthy County Co-ordinator said: “We are really excited about this campaign. It has its own unique Wexford slant in that the materials have been designed here and we are asking groups and organisations to really discuss and consult with young people before pledging to the campaign. This means that there will actively be conversations happening all over the county and ultimately as a county we will have a network of healthy areas, chosen in consultation with young people, where they can be free from smoking and vaping.” She continued, “Initially we are asking all notfor-profit and public organisations that have children and young people engaged with their facility/space to get involved. As we progress we will ask the wider businesses community to join us on the campaign. The steps to take are all clearly set out online, along with the link to pledge your organisation’s support. When a group pledges support, Healthy Wexford will provide them with a Supporter’s Pack including a charter to dis-
play, window stickers and outdoor signage for their premises. Organisations interested in more information should search the #NotAroundUs hashtag through the @HealthyWexford social media handles and click into the webpage: www.bit.ly/NotAroundUs Cllr Hegarty said: “Not Around Us is an ask, not a direction by young people to their peers and community. I will be urging local clubs and premises in my area to be among the first pledged to implement the campaign across County Wexford. It is paramount that the environments in which we live, grow, learn, work, and play in are protective of their health and wellbeing. It is fantastic to lead and see the collaborative effort involved, all in the name of a healthier Wexford. I encourage all organisations which children and young people are likely to frequent to begin the conversation, sign up online and support this initiative. By doing so, you become tobacco-and-vape-free ambassadors to the benefit of generations to come. As a group we look forward to promoting and publicising those who take the pledge over the coming year.” n
Wexford’s ‘Not Around Us’ campaign was launched last month at Ferrybank, Wexford. Check out: www.bit.ly/NotAroundUs
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SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy welcomed Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, to County Wexford, on 3rd September.
Visit of Minister Darragh O’Brien to the Trinity Wharf site in Wexford town o Cllr Garry Laffan (Mayor of Wexford), Darragh O’Brien TD (Minister for (Cathaoirleach of Wexford Cou
The Cathaoirleach accompanied the Minister as he viewed a number of significant housing and job creation projects in Gorey and Wexford before going on to attend the annual Kennedy Summer School at St Michael’s Theatre, New Ross, that afternoon. Later that evening the Minister also visited Forgelands, a recently-completed 59 home development in Enniscorthy, delivered by Tuath Housing Association in partnership with Wexford County Council. On the Minister’s itinerary was St Waleran’s, a 70-acre site close to Gorey – Wexford’s fastest growing town. Recently acquired by Wexford County Council, the high profile lands offer significant potential in terms of social, affordable and private housing, public amenities and education facilities. During his visit the Minister had opportunity to view first-hand the recently completed site master plan which sets out the Council’s ambitions for the phased development of the strategic site. From Gorey, the Minister travelled to Wexford where Mayor of Wexford Cllr. Garry Laffan accompanied the Minister on a brief tour of the Council’s flagship urban regeneration project at Trinity Wharf. Recently awarded more than €18.4 million in funding by the Minister under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), this transformational project is aimed at enhancing the attractiveness and economic capacity of Wexford Town and environs as a place in which to work, visit and invest. The 10-acre development is central to Wexford County Council’s ambitious plans to attract foreign direct investment and high-quality employment opportunities to County Wexford, with overall project investment estimated at €120 million, including €24 million of public investment. Speaking from Trinity Wharf, Minister O’Brien congratulated the Members and Executive of Wexford County Council in bringing their ambitions for the county through to reality. “Standing here today on this magnificent site, I can clearly see the immense ambition and significance of this transformational project and its potential to drive forward the economic development of the entire county of Wexford over the next number of years,” said Minister O’Brien. “I am delighted that I and my colleagues in Government have had the opportunity to support you, the Elected Members and Executive of Wexford County Council as you embark on the road to developing Trinity Wharf as a multiuse regeneration project of regional scale,” he concluded.
Minister applauds W In a further vote of confidence in the Trinity Wharf development, Minister O’Brien took the opportunity to publicly announce that the headquarters of MARA, the new national maritime area regulatory authority, are to be located at Trinity Wharf, bringing with it dozens of high quality public sector jobs. Also attending the event at Trinity Wharf was Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, Mr. Tom Enright. He described Trinity Wharf as one of the most exciting and ambitious economic developments projects ever proposed in the county. “Regeneration projects such as Trinity Wharf are about taking a diverse set of needs, including economic, social and recreational, and integrating these into a progressive, modern, fit-for-purpose, multi-use development project that we believe will transform the economic and social landscape of the entire county,” said Mr. Enright. Mr Enright also praised the elected members of the Council who he said had been “unflinching” in their support of the Trinity Wharf project since its inception in 2016, adding that the development of Trinity Wharf would prove a welcome stimulus for investment as the economy emerges from the current Covid-19 crisis. Mr. Enright also welcomed the Minister’s announcement that the new Maritime Area Regulatory Authority is to be headquartered at Trinity Wharf, describing the announcement as a timely and visible example of the Government’s strong support of the Trinity Wharf development.
L-R: Tom Enright (CEO, Wexford County Council), with Minister O’Brien. Pic: Mary Browne.
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From Wexford, Minister O’Brien made the short trip to New Ross to speak at the Shared Island panel discussion at the annual Kennedy Summer School. Chaired by Bryan Dobson, the panel also included Dr Robert Mauro, the Executive Director of the Irish Institute and Global Leadership Institute at Boston College, Al-
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on 3rd September, 2021. L-R: Tom Enright (CEO, Wexford County Council), r Housing, Local Government and Heritage), Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy unty Council). Pic: Mary Browne.
tenants and wished them health and happiness as they settled into their new homes. The visit was not without some controversy however with local Sinn Féin Councillor Tom Forde criticising the recent visit and labelling it as a 'snub to County Wexford' and those struggling to secure housing. Cllr Forde said, “After repeated requests from myself, Wexford County Council wrote to the Minister asking him to attend a meeting of our council to discuss the many housing issues impacting the people of our county and to hear his plan. Instead, the Minister opted to tour our county for photo ops and to promote his “Housing For All” plan, a plan which I believe will fail to deliver on what was promised. “This type of publicity-driven visit can only be viewed as a party political broadcast and as a snub to some members of Wexford County Council and those experiencing great difficulty to secure affordable and suitable accommodation throughout our county."
Wexford Co. Council liance Party Councillor Sorcha Eastwood, and Sarah Creighton, writer, lawyer and commentator from Belfast. Later that evening, on his return trip to Dublin, Minister O’Brien stopped in Enniscorthy town where Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District, Councillor Cathal Byrne, accompanied the Minister on a tour of Forgelands, a newly-completed 59-home development, delivered by Tuath Housing Association in partnership with Wexford County Council. Here, Minister O’Brien took time to meet the families who recently received the keys to their new home, many of whom were only too delighted to proudly show off their beautiful new home to the Minister and his accompanying entourage. The Minister congratulated all the proud
Councillor Forde also criticised the role of Wexford County Council in the Minister’s visit: “I would question the participation of council officials and members of the council partaking in what was essentially a party political advertisement for the Minister and his plan. It should not be the place of elected representatives or officials to promote such a plan without the approval or discussion of the elected members of Wexford County Council. If this was an official event, all elected representatives should have been invited or notified, rather than a carefully selected few who toe the Minister’s line. I believe the visit happened in the manner it did to avoid any discussion or criticism of the plan." Councillor Forde believes that the Minister’s plan has many flaws and falls far short of what is needed to provide adequate housing for the people of Wexford. “Housing For All is all about maintaining the status quo and is clearly geared more towards the interests of developers and investors than those in need of affordable homes. Unfortunately, this plan will not reduce rents, will not reduce evictions, but it will ensure that yet another generation will continue to be locked out from affordable housing.” “I will continue to raise these issues at a local level and will once again request that the Minister attends a full meeting of our council as promised to discuss the many obstacles and challenges facing the people of our county in securing housing. I believe we deserve that opportunity.” n
Minister O’Brien and Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council), display the plans for the St Waleran’s site in Gorey. Pic: Mary Browne.
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Above L-R: Luke Wenman looks after his brother Eamonn during his first days in school. Alfie Kennedy (right) had his brother Jaxon to walk to school with. Senan Quirke had his sister Julie to accompany him. Megan Bourke.
First days at Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh
Above L-R: Lilly Ann, Patrick and Alannah Murphy. All set and raring to go – young Noah Stevenson. Erin Breen had time for a sitdown before going in and saying goodbye to dad Trevor. Conor and mam Anna O’Shea posed for a photo before school.
Above L-R: Fionn and Tomas Doyle. Eric and Derry O’Sullivan. Con and Arlo Caesar. The senior looking after the junior – Hannah looks after her sister Lucy Dunne on her first Day.
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Bus Éireann anounces additional Expressway sevices in Co. Wexford 05.50hrs Wexford/Dublin Airport
Bus Éireann has reintroduced a number of Expressway services in County Wexford effective from 26 September. The services were temporarily suspended from Saturday 15 May and have now been reintroduced to service growing demand.
10.00hrs Dublin Airport/Wexford 13.00hrs Wexford/Dublin Airport 17.00hrs Dublin Airport/Wexford Route X4 Monday to Sunday 05.30hrs New Ross / Waterford /
‘’We are delighted to announce the reintroduction of a number of Expressway services for County Wexford,’’ said Eleanor Farrell, Chief Commercial Officer, Bus Éireann. ‘’As a result of Covid-19, we temporarily suspended some services on our routes in May, we are now in a position to reintroduce these services and to continue to provide important transport connectivity to the people of Wexford and surrounding counties.’’
Dublin Airport 10.00hrs Dublin Airport / Waterford / The services which have been reintroduced are: Route 2 Monday to Sunday 02.00hrs Wexford / Dublin Airport 06.00hrs Dublin Airport / Wexford 20.30hrs Wexford / Dublin Airport 00.00hrs Dublin Airport / Wexford
New Ross The above services are operating at 100% capacity and customers are advised to check the revised timetables on the Expressway website. Customers should continue to wear face coverings within bus stations and on board throughout their entire journey. n
HSE marks Jeanne’s retirement A long career in the management of community healthcare services in the South East concluded last month with the retirement of long-time Wexford resident Jeanne Hendrick.
The HSE marks Jeanne Hendrick’s retirement.
As Head of Service/Primary Care of South East Community Healthcare over the last year and a half of pandemic, Jeanne Hendrick had been centrally involved in the HSE response – including in the establishment of standing and “pop up” Covid-19 testing facilities throughout the counties of the South East. Having qualified in general nursing and midwifery at Epsom and St. Helier University Hospital in Surrey, England, Jeanne Henrick subsequently trained in mental health nursing at St. Canice’s Hospital, Kilkenny. Having later served as Asst. Director of Nursing for the then South Eastern Health Board’s mental health services in the Wexford area, Jeanne then took on a regional managerial role in health and safety. Jeanne Hendrick went on to lead projects in the Freedom of Information Office and the development of the HSE’s mental health policy across the South East before taking up the role of Manager of St. Senan’s Hospital in Enniscorthy with remit
for the wider mental health services in Co. Wexford. This role also included management of the HSE residential, elderly and disability services. Jeanne then served as General Manager for the Wexford Community Care area. Upon the establishment of the South East Community Healthcare organisation in 2015, Jeanne Hendrick took up a position as Regional General Manager for Mental Health Services and later as Regional Gen-
eral Manager in Primary Care with responsibility for Social Inclusion. Jeanne has worked closely with local authorities in several of her roles. On behalf of HSE/South East Community Healthcare, its Chief Officer Kate Killeen White thanked Jeanne Hendrick for her commitment and leadership and wished her and her family well as she retires from decades of distinguished service to the public in the South East. n
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St Senan’s primary school, first days for the infants’ class, September 2021. Above left: Penny and Claire Murphy. Above: Gerry had his older brother John Connors to bring him to school. Above right: Sophie Wall had her friend Keira O’Rourke to bring her to school. Below left: Buddy and sister Bonnie Murphy. Below: Martha and and Alice Ruth. Right: Charlie O’Toole. Below right: Twins Amy and Shane Whelan.
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t Senan’s, nniscorthy, First Days at School
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Above left: Conor and Kayden Dwyer. Above: Nathan Doyle. Above right: Carley O’Reilly-Dobbs and Aidan Hayland. Right: Killian O’Connor and Nicola Stokes. Far right: April Doyle. Below left: Jack and Amilia Dagg. Below right: Kate and Kathleen Kelly. Below far right: Young Conor O’Sullivan had his friend Susan Delaney and brother Cian O’Sullivan to accompany him.
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Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh First Holy Communion Right: Enniscorthy Gaelscoil First Holy Communion in St. Senan’s church, Saturday 18th September, Mairead, Nicole, Niall, Niall Snr and Lily Fitzpatrick. Below: Rachel, Jack, Nathan, Sinead and Hannah Redmond. Below right: Anthony, MJ and Tina Russell.
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SlaNey NewS Deputy Johnny Mythen lends his support to the newly established Wexford Volunteer Centre https://volunteerwexford.ie
Best wishes to Enniscorthy’s new superintendent
FUEL SEASON RETURNS FOR 2021/2022 If you receive fuel allowance in the form of two lump sums, your first lump sum of €392 should have been paid by now. The second lump sum will be paid in mid-January 2022.
Best wishes to Superintendent Denis Whelan who took up the position of Garda Superintendent in the Enniscorthy District effective from the 27th September 2021.
Fuel allowance is a means-tested payment designed to assist people who depend on long-term social welfare payments with the cost of heating their home during the winter months.
Originally from Co. Wicklow, he has 25 years experience in An Garda Síochána, and previously served in Wexford and in Tipperary but has resided in Co. Wexford since 2004 and very much considers the Model County to be his home. n
If you wish to apply for fuel allowance, or have any queries, you can message Cllr Aidan Browne on 0877753097 or email: aidan.browne@wexfordmcc.ie for assistance. n
Pulse Point App saves lives – download it now!
PulsePoint is an App available to the general public to assist them access an AED (defibrillator) in Enniscorthy and around Co. Wexford. The App allows the user to instantly see where the closest defibrillator is in an emergency. Sports clubs, parish halls, schools, businesses etc countywide should get in touch now and register their AED. The ‘Add AED’ feature on the App can be used to to submit AEDs to the App. The App is on Apple: https://tinyurl.com/DefibApp-Apple and Android: https://tinyurl.com/AndroidDefibApp See ‘Enniscorthy Defibrillator Initiative’ on Facebook. n
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Leading the way to weight loss
Back in full group: Tuesday 6.30pm Saturday 9am and 10.30am Enniscorthy Slimming World Consultant Tony McCann certainly knows from experience how Slimming World can help you succeed on on a weight-loss journey. Tony himself has lost five stone (32 kilos) and now he can help you achieve your own weight-loss goals while still enjoying lots of tasty food like in the recipe below. Call Tony now on 087-1785384. Click here to check out Tony’s Facebook page n
Heart-shape chicken and mushroom pies Serves 4, ready in 1 hour 5 minutes, 4½ Syns per serving WHAT YOU NEED: 500ml hot chicken stock 4 skinless and boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size chunks 2 onions, roughly chopped 1 garlic clove, finely chopped 2 carrots, diced 200g green beans, trimmed and roughly chopped 200g button mushrooms, halved or quartered if large 1 level tsp chicken gravy granules 2 tbsp tomato purée 2 x 200g cans cooked lean ham, diced 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh tarragon 1 egg, lightly beaten 100g ready-rolled light puff pastry WHAT YOU DO: 1. Put the stock, chicken, onions, garlic, carrots, beans and mushrooms in a non-stick saucepan over a high heat, bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring often, until the onions have softened and the chicken is cooked. 2. Add the gravy granules and tomato purée and stir well. Add the ham and tarragon, season to taste and stir again. 3. Preheat your oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/gas 4. Pour the chicken mixture into 4 individual pie dishes and brush the rims with some of the beaten egg. 4. Divide the pastry into 4 portions and shape each portion using a heart-shape cutter. Place the hearts on top of the pies, brush with the remaining egg and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden. Serve hot with your favourite summer veggies. n
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Wexford Food Starter Programme Wexford Food Starter Programme Venue: Online Dates: 09/11/2021, 11/11/2021, 23/11/2021, 25/11/2021 Time: 14:00 - 17:30 Cost: €25 This programme is aimed at anyone with a food idea or those at a very early stage of starting up a food business (typically in the first 24 months). Objectives: To provide participants with base knowledge of what is involved in setting up a food business. The content of this course is designed to provide the participants with information which will allow them to avoid the pitfalls normally associated with this journey. Day 1 & 2: Day 1 and 2 will focus on providing participants with an overview of the dynamics of the food sector in Ireland and getting objectives for your project clear in your mind. The content will include: Individual participant introductions Feedback and discussions based on your product idea Understanding the Irish food sector Understanding what is artisan food production Identifying what are the pitfalls associated with starting your own food business Minimum requirements, e.g. food safety, labelling, requirements, insurance etc. How much money might a food start-up business cost
Understanding the critical role of packaging and branding Researching your idea Day 3 & 4: These workshops will focus on the more practical aspects of setting up a food business. The content will include: How to build your pricing model Distribution options Understanding the role of the various agencies, i.e. Bord Bia, LEO etc. How to manage the brand design process Deciding on your route to market - Direct selling, e.g. online, farmers’ markets etc. - Retail channels - Succeeding with store managers and trade buyers Attending consumer shows and trade fairs Packaging review Identifying new steps Trainer: James Burke, James Burke & Associates For more information or to book: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Training-Events/Online-Bookings/Food-Starter-Programme-09-11-2021.html
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Local food businesses emerging strongly from pandemic
Fresh Today – an Enniscorthy-based company which supplies school lunches to DEIS schools recently had a visit from Joe O'Brien TD, Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development & Department of Social Protection, to hear about their work first-hand. Fresh Today is a Wexford Local Development client and has received funding under its LEADER programme. Pictured above L-R: Brian McGee (Fresh Today), Helena Dempsey (Wexford Local Development), Minister Joe O’Brien, Brian Kehoe (Wexford Local Development).
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Left: Mervyn and Cathy Cooney whose two food businesses in Enniscorthy – the bakery and My Cafe restaurant have emerged successfully from the worst of the pandemic. Above: Paul and Edwina Hynes successfully operated, during the summer, the Cheeky Cod – a temporary takeaway business on Wexford’s Quay to tide them over until they were able to successfully reopen in August their Michelin Plate recommended La Côte restaurant on the Quay.
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Best of luck to Wexford’s national food awards finalists An impressive 15 food producers from the Wexford Food Family, which is three more than in 2020, are finalists in the Blas na hÉireann Irish food awards. This is a huge acknowledgement of the quality of the food and drink produced in our county.
Zaeire Artisan Chocolates Zanna Cookhouse. Also representing Co. Wexford are Bramble Cottage Kitchen, Lekker Food Collection, Nutorious Nutrition, Pettitt’s SuperValu and Ryan’s Bakery.
Members through to the final are: Atlantis of Kilmore Quay Fancy Fungi Gourmet Mushrooms Irish Country Meats Isle of Crackers Killowen Farm Naturally Cordial
O’Neills Dry Cure Bacon Co. Scúp Gelato Sofrimar Staffords Bakery Tasty Parlour Wexford Home Preserves Wild About
Blas na hÉireann is a virtual event again this year with the winners being announced tomorrow – October 2nd on the Blas website and across social media channels. Best of luck to all Co. Wexford’s representatives. n
New Food Tourism Programme With the support of Wexford Local Development through the LEADER Programme 2014-2020, Taste Wexford is hosting an exciting, immersive food tourism programme designed to help existing and new food tourism businesses develop yearround visitor experiences. This programme will commence in October 2021 and run until February/March 2022. The three ways this programme will take place are through: 1. Group workshops, either online or in-person. 2. One-to-one mentorship and training sessions with one or more industry experts in food tourism. Here mentors will work with businesses on developing their own food tourism experiences. 3. Sharing of information and learning from each other either through group facilitation forums, online via the Taste Wexford Portal or at best-practice showcase events.
If you are accepted onto the programme, you will be invited to an introductory ‘meet and greet’ group session for an informal breakdown on what lies ahead, and an opportunity to bond. This session is planned to take place the week starting 11th October 2021. If you are not accepted onto the programme, a wait list will be in place in case a spot opens up. The organisers will also explain other ways they can assist you with developing and promoting your food-tourism visitor experience. For businesses who get accepted on this programme, you must commit to selling a food tourism experience in 2022. More info: https://www.tastewexford.ie/foodtourismprogramme
The mentors listed are leaders in their fields and constantly travel and research new ways to build world-class culinary experiences, tours, trails and events. N.B. Applications close today at 5pm (1st October) so best of luck to all who register at https://www.tastewexford.ie/foodtourismprogramme/#trainingform A selection process is in place as only 25 places are available on this immersive food tourism programme. The organisers will be in touch with the selected members on the week starting 4th October 2021. Taste Wexford is a sub-brand of Visit Wexford, an agri-food tourism brand set up to promote the Model County in connecting tourists and locals with our heritage and unique stories of our food producers.
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Table Forty One – Gorey’s Michelin recommended restaurant Andrew Duncan’s Table Forty One in Gorey is the cream of the crop when it comes to fine dining in Co. Wexford. Andrew started his career at the age of 16 working his way through Ireland, New Zealand, Canada and The UAE in some of the finest Relais and Châteaux hotels and Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurants before returning to his home town of Gorey and establishing Table Forty One – his highly anticipated first venture into owning his own restaurant. Andrew strives to find the best local, seasonal ingredients (and is a proud supporter of Taste Wexford) and prepares them to the highest standards in a relaxed, approachable atmosphere – giving his guests a fine-dining experience without the “fine dining” pretentiousness. Andrew prides himself on personalising the dining experience – he is the only chef on duty in his small kitchen and he changes his menu on a weekly basis. The menu typically consists of four starters, four main courses, three desserts and cheese board. Andrew’s signature fillet steak is a speciality served with mushroom and smoked bacon jam. All of the above food is, of course, accompanied by an exceptional wine list. Earlier this year, the Michelin Guide 2021 Bib Gourmands were announced, with only 16 being awarded throughout Great Britain and Ireland – and one of those was Table Forty One in Gorey – a spectacular achievement for Andrew. Bib Gourmand distinction highlights restaurants offering great food at competitive prices. The Michelin Guide says, “Having worked in various hotels and restaurants around the world, Gorey native Andrew Duncan has returned home to open this cosy, welcoming restaurant: a new entry in the
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A perfectionist at work – Andrew Duncan at Table Forty One in Gorey
2021 guide. The wine list is short yet wellpriced and the concise seasonal menu offers classic, technically adept dishes with a great balance of texture and flavour; perhaps a French onion tart with goat’s cheese, candied walnuts and crispy
kale; or confit duck leg with apple, spiced red cabbage and a blackberry jus.” Andrew looks forward to your company soon in his award-winning restaurant. For reservations please call 053 9421366. http://www.tablefortyone.ie n Andrew Duncan – a proud supporter of Wexford produce
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Opportunities at Enniscorthy Farmers Market Enniscorthy Farmers Market is a friendly, long established market, trading on Saturday mornings in Abbey Square, 9am to 2pm. The Market has openings for: 1. Hot food vendor – hot dogs, burgers, tacos, pizza (note: the market already has a crepe and tea and coffee vendor). 2. Specialist baker – gluten free, sour dough, spelt (note: traditional breads are all ready covered). 3. Craft business. If you are interested please message via Facebook or through the website: www.wexfordfarmersmarkets.com Or drop by to visit and have a chat.
Calling time for the very last time
Taste Wexford extends its congratulations to local producers who were winners in the 2021 Great Taste Awards! Well done to Wexford Home Preserves, Killowen Farm, O'Neills Bacon and Naturally Cordial for being awarded Great Taste stars for their exceptional Wexford-made food and drink.
Stephen and Jimmy have called ‘time’ on their tenure at the helm of Enniscorthy’s famous Antique Tavern. The popular duo say, “We both would like to thank every single customer who came through the door, every one of you helped us make a good pub into a great pub, and we hope it will continue to be a great pub in the future. The two of us, by our own choice, have decided to take on other opportunities and challenges and look forward to seeing how they pan out. So from Stephen and Jimmy once last time... Time folks please.”
Meal planning and tips to reduce food waste With 1 million tonnes of food wasted in Ireland annually, meal planning, savvy shopping and using your freezer could help the average household save up to €700 a year! The good news is that 85% of us are preparing and cooking more meals at home since the pandemic with 66% of people buying more frozen fruit and vegetables now versus pre-pandemic, with nearly three quarters of us now aware that frozen fruit and vegetables offer the same nutritional value as fresh – and your produce will last longer too! Green Isle has five simple steps on how to meal plan and reduce food waste: Think Before You Shop – Make a list before you shop to save time, money and food waste. Always check what’s in your fridge/freezer and shop with meals for the week ahead in mind which will help prevent over-buying. Think how you can use up what you have left over, before planning on buying any new items. Use or Lose Your Food – 60% of people end up throwing away fresh food because it’s passed its ‘use-by’ date. Substitute fresh products and stock up with
frozen alternatives like frozen fruits, vegetables and fish, use what you need plus you don’t have to worry about use-by dates and it will save you money. Stock Up – Having a well-stocked cupboard or pantry makes meals easier and quicker to prepare. Having a kitchen stocked full of items that have a long shelf life such as grains, beans, spices and favourite sauces can save time and dress up any meal. Make sure to use air-
tight containers to keep open food fresh in the fridge and ensure packets, jars etc. are closed to stop food going stale. Love Your Freezer – The freezer is your friend for meal planning and family meal solutions. Plan ahead and pack your freezer with home-made meals, fresh and frozen ingredients for quick and tasty meals when needed. A freezer clear-out every three months will ensure you use up everything and nothing goes to waste. Don’t forget the First In/First Out rule, always put newer items to the back of the freezer and bring older ones to the front. Love Your Leftovers – More than half of households say they throw away food because they’ve cooked too much. Use leftovers to prepare and store meals for the week ahead, a smart way to make sure you eat everything you buy. For inspiration for your next family meal plan recipe visit www.greenisle.ie www.GreenIsle.ie Insta: Green Isle Facebook: Green Isle For recipes: check out www.greenisle.ie/recipes/ n
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SlaNey SlaNey food ad & driNk The Restaurants Association of Ireland has just released its PreBudget 2022 Submission. Speaking about the asks of the restaurant and wider hospitality industry, Adrian Cummins, CEO Restaurants Association of Ireland, said: “Our members, including restaurants, gastropubs, cafés and caterers have been economically flattened by the necessary public health restrictions over the last 18 months and now that the sector is slowly reopening, albeit still restricted, our shift must now focus to sustaining and reviving the sector. Continued wage supports are vital for the sector as the good weather and staycations end. Financial supports to enable the sector to reemploy staff and adapt and grow until international tourism returns are paramount to ensuring the continued survival of the hospitality sector, a vital element of our domestic and international tourism offering.” Sustaining & Reviving Ireland’s Restaurant & Hospitality Sector – Restaurants Association of Ireland’s Asks for Budget 2022: Wage Supports – Continuation at current rates in 2022 Increased Tourism Budget – increase from the current €186 million budget to €300 million Local Authority Charges – extension of waivers of commercial rates / street furniture licences Tourism & Hospitality VAT Rate – Retain 9% VAT rate until 2025 Stay & Spend - Implement a real-time voucher scheme similar to the Eat Out to Help Out Scheme Excise Duty – Reduce alcohol excise by 7.5% Work Permits & Visas – Extension of existing work permits and visas currently in place in light of pandemic closure months. Inclusion of frontof-house roles in work permits Apprenticeships – Implement Action Plan for Apprenticeship 2021–2025 recommendations immediately to bring equality to employer payments of Traditional / Craft and New (post 2016) apprenticeships and permit bursaries Establishment of a National Tourism and Hospitality Training Authority Review of Tourism State Agencies Establish a Restaurant & Hospitality Forum Industry Developed Tourism Policy Tourism Satellite Account Insurance – Action Alliance for Insurance Reform asks Labour Costs – No further increase to minimum wage in the short term Commercial Rates – Review of the rates calculations to reflect a more fair and propositional valuation for all business types Other associated business costs – Review of regulatory licencing and utility costs on businesses National Food Education Policy – Comprehensive culinary and nutritional education as a mandatory element of primary and secondary syllabus n
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Wexford businesses big winners at world’s leading food awards Congratulations to the members of the Wexford Food Family who were big winners at this year’s Great Taste Awards. Six members were recognised with a total of 16 products and 22 stars, so there was great celebration among the Wexford producers. Great Taste is the world’s largest and most trusted food and drink awards, putting food and drink to the test with a panel of over 500 experts.
Greek Style Raspberry Yoghurt – 1 Star www.killowen.ie Isle of Crackers: Sea Salt Cracker – 2 Stars Cranberry Cracker – 1 Star https://www.facebook.com/Isleofcrackers/ O’Neills Bacon: Dry Cured Back Rashers – 1 Star Dry Cured Streaky Rashers – 1 Star www.oneillsbacon.ie
Naturally Cordial: Lemon & Lime Leaf Cordial – 1 Star www.naturallycordial.ie Irish Country Meats: Butchers Selection Irish Lamb Rack with Garlic & Thyme for Aldi – 1 Star Deluxe Stuffed Irish Carvery Lamb Leg for Lidl – 1 Star www.irishcountrymeats.com n
Every jar, packet or bottle displaying the Great Taste logo is a guarantee every product has been through the rigorous and independent judging process. Whether a product receives a 1-, 2- or 3star accolade, Great Taste stars are highly respected seals of approval. Less than 2% of entries manage to bag a 3-star rating so we are particularly pleased to learn that Wexford Home Preserves was awarded 3 stars for its Handmade Seville Marmalade. Congratulations to all Wexford Food Family members on all their awards. Wexford Home Preserves: Handmade Seville Marmalade – 3 Stars Orange Marmalade – 2 Stars Wexford Blackcurrant Jam – 1 Star Irish Raspberry Jam – 1 Star Irish Gooseberry Jam – 1 Star www.wexfordpreserves.ie Killowen Farm: Wexford Blackcurrant Yoghurt – 2 Stars Natural Cream Cheese – 2 Stars Greek Style Wild Blueberry & Heritage Raspberry Yoghurt – 1 Star
New pub opening soon in Enniscorthy
The Sinnott family of Wexford Home Preserves, based in New Ross, major winners in this year’s Great Taste Awards.
Opening mid October at Market Square, Enniscorthy, the town’s newest pub will feature live music, exclusive cocktail menu and showing all live sporting events. Keep your eye out for further updates on our Slaney News Facebook page and follow The Hole in the Wall on its Instagram page for regular updates, offers, and competitions! n
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Comhairle Contae
053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
Remember a working smoke alarm will alert you to the danger of a fire occurring in your home, which allows you and your family time to get out and be safe. There are a few simple things you can do to protect yourself and those you love safe from fire. Let's STOP fire together:-
S is for Smoke alarms, Make sure you have at least one smoke alarm installed on every floor level of your home. Additional smoke alarms should also be installed in habitable rooms, such as living room/kitchen and bedrooms. Also garages and attic spaces should be considered.
T is for Testing smoke alarms weekly, Test your smoke alarms weekly, or ask someone to check them for you.
! O is for Obvious dangers, Look out for fire risks - like overloaded sockets, candles and unattended appliances such as cookers. Laptops and electronic devices (especially when charging) should always be
Fire Safety Week 2021 – Monday 4th October to Monday 11th October
stored on hard surfaces and not positioned on beds or couches. Make sure cigarette ash trays are emptied last thing at night into a safe area where fire will not catch hold. Fire Guards are a must for open fires. Faulty or old appliances may need repair or replacement.
“Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives – Test Yours Weekly”
P is for Plan your escape, Keep access routes clear and have your keys if necessary at the ready.
In the event of fire dial 112 or 999, ask for the Fire Brigade, give exact details of the location of the fire and if there is anyone in the house, remain calm and listen to the operator and answer any questions they ask. Further Information in relation to Fire Safety is available at: www.firesafetyweek.ie From Wexford County Fire Service.
Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com
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Outside office hours call: 1890 666 777 Register on www.mapalerter.com for free text and email alerts about service disruptions in your locality
Planning app. lists available at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning
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Comhairle Contae
053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
Course
Date
Time
Venue
Safeguarding 1 Basic Awareness Course
Weds 6th Oct Places Limited
7.00pm – 10.00pm
ZOOM €20
Safeguarding 2 Children’s Officer Course
Weds 20th Oct Places Limited
7.00pm – 10.00pm
ZOOM
€20
Safeguarding 1 Basic Awareness Course
Weds 27th Oct Places Limited
7.00pm – 10.00pm
ZOOM
€20
Cost
Pre- payment is essential for courses to proceed
! Contact office on 053 919 6557or e-mail sports.active@wexfordcoco.ie Note: - Bookings can be made online – https://pay.easypaymentsplus.com/feepay1.aspx?id=179
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
School Meals Scheme 2021/2022 Tenders are invited for the supply of approximately 230 school lunches to the Gaelscoil, Drumgoold, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford. A single lunch will comprise each of the following items; (a) One 250ml bottle of water and/or the provision of a water cooler(s). (b) One sandwich/main filler. (c) One piece of fruit/healthy snack. To be delivered, individually packaged and labelled, to the school each school day during the 2021/22 school term, commencing on Monday 1st November, 2021. Sealed Tenders marked “School Meals” will be received by the undersigned up to but not later than 5.00pm on Monday, 18th October, 2021. The lowest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted. David Minogue, County Secretary, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. 5th October, 2021.
1st October 2021 - Page 55
SlaNey BUSiNeSS SlaNey ad & fiNaNCe
NATIONAL WOMEN’S ENTERPRISE DAY – CALLING ALL COUNTY WEXFORD’S ENTREPRENEURS Female entrepreneurs and budding businesswomen from across County Wexford are being encouraged to look to the future and register for this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day (NWED) after the line up for the event was announced. The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) initiative, now in its
15th year, will be hosted by entrepreneur and broadcaster Aine Kerr. Traditionally National Women’s Enterprise Day has taken place locally with LEO Wexford hosting events across the county for female businesswomen or those who may have a business idea
BUILD THE FUTURE
ONLINE THURSDAY OCTOBER 07TH 2021
Register for your FREE place today! LocalEnterprise.ie/NWED In partnership with
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they want to get off the ground. Following a successful online programme in 2020, this year’s event will again take place online. The free event, titled “Build The Future”, takes place online on the 7th October and will feature some of Ireland’s best known female entrepreneurs including the likes of Aimee Connolly of Sculpted by Aimee, Rachel Doyle of The Arboretum and Sharon Keegan of Peachy Lean, who was recently supported on Dragon’s Den UK. Wexford Leading Light for 2021 is entrepreneur Niamh Hogan, Holos Skincare. Niamh launched her business in 2014 producing an award-winning range of luxurious plant-based skincare that nourishes skin health and helps prevent the signs of premature ageing. In addition to selling their products throughout Ireland, Holos has partners in Austria, Hong Kong and the USA. Holos has always had its eye on the e-commerce space and exploited this position when Covid hit in March 2020 to channel all its resources into driving the online market. In 2020, 67% of all revenue was online, up from only 30% the previous year. Revenue increased by 103%. The focus for Holos going forward is to continue to grow the domestic e-commerce market, partner with like-minded retailers in the B2B space and to grow the US market. The Holos team is made up of six women and their product range is manufactured in-house at their premises in Enniscorthy. Niamh has ambitious plans to grow her business and increase employment over the coming years. The NWED programme will feature topics such as how to build the future of a business, how to get started, internationalisation, finding new markets, trading effectively online, sustainability and innovation. This will be coupled with breakout rooms for networking and a
SlaNey BUSiNeSS & fiNaNCe L-R: Breege Cosgrave, Assistant Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office, Wexford County Council; Niamh Hogan, Holos Skincare; Liz Hore, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office, Wexford County Council; Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (Chairperson, Wexford County Council).
host of one-to-one advice clinics for any business issues. New figures released by the Local Enterprise Offices, who are funded by the Government of Ireland and supported by Enterprise Ireland and the Local Authorities, have shown that the number of women engaging in entrepreneurship and business supports continues to rise. In 2020, over 47,000 women engaged in training and upskilling with their Local Enterprise Office. This was a huge jump on 2019 as 23,466 female entrepreneurs took part in training that year. In 2020, 50% more females engaged in training and upskilling with their Local Enterprise Office than their male counterparts (30,000). Liz Hore, Head of Enterprise, said: “National Women’s Enterprise Day has always been a day of celebration of the very best in female entrepreneurship and highlighting the strength of that community. The last 18 months has presented significant challenges. However, the responsiveness and ability of female entrepreneurs to
adapt, exploit new opportunities and forge new paths is commendable. We look forward to promoting female entrepreneurship in County Wexford through supporting existing entrepreneurs and helping women to develop new business ideas leading to sustainable businesses. “NWED will explore areas where you can build your business for the future, what areas you need to look at and what supports are there to help you do that. Everyone who registers and attends on the day will not only spend it with a fantastic community of female entrepreneurs and experts from around the country, but they will learn how to build their business or business idea for the future creating jobs at local level here in Wexford.” Cllr. Barbara-Anne Murphy, only the third female to serve as Caoitherleach of Wexford County Council in more than 120 years of local government, commented on the event: “The National Women’s Enterprise Day in the past has proven to be hugely beneficial to female entrepre-
neurs as an occasion where they met like-minded women and developed support networks that benefited them as they developed their businesses. The need for positive role models in leadership across business, sport and politics provides the inspiration for women to know they can and do succeed in whatever path they choose.” Other participants on the day include Gerry Duffy who will be conducting an energising session, Jenny Melia and Sheelagh Daly from Enterprise Ireland on Internationalisation and New Markets, Entrepreneurs Academy’s Noel Davidson on creating connections, Designer Aoife McNamara on starting a business, and a host of others covering all sorts of topics from finance to trading online. Those looking to attend National Women’s Enterprise Day can find more information and register for free on www.LocalEnterprise.ie/NWED and join the conversation online using the hashtag #NWED. n
1st October 2021 - Page 57
SlaNey BUSiNeSS SlaNey ad & fiNaNCe
Masterplan for Old Dublin Road The Masterplan for the Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy, is due for completion around this time, following which the tender for Phase 1 of the works, including pedestrian crossings, welcome signage, new sections of footpath and some landscaping will be prepared. It is hoped that a contractor will be appointed in December 2021 with the intention of undertaking these works in quarter 1 of 2022. n
Register now on VisitWexford.ie VisitWexford.ie has a number of useful directories for tourists such as accommodation, activities, places to eat, events and more. Businesses can register on Visit Wexford to create, edit and manage business listings on the website. Businesses can manage their own listings there allowing them to keep their business information up to date on a website with a high volume of visitors who use the site as a resource to plan their visit to Wexford. Therefore, it is vital that all information presented on the website is correct. https://www.visitwexford.ie/visit-wexford-business-listing-form/
Shaping Wexford’s economic future Wexford business owners can help shape the economic landscape for the county AND be in with a chance to win a fabulous hamper to the value of €200! Wexford’s Local Enterprise Office is asking Wexford business owners to complete a short survey to help map out the business skills and working requirements of employers across the county. This will take no longer than 4 minutes and can be accessed here: https://bit.ly/3DiXPQ4. Completed surveys will be entered into a draw for the chance to win a hamper to the value of €200 so make sure to enter soon – if you’re not in you can’t win! n
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Attendees at the 2019 Enniscorthy & District Chamber Black Tie Ball.
Chamber Black Tie Ball The Enniscorthy & District Chamber Black Tie Ball is scheduled to take place in the Riverside Park Hotel on Saturday, 4th December. It promises to be a glittering occasion with a champagne reception, followed by a sumptuous five-course dinner with a choice of wines, dancing to the sounds of ‘Fiesta’, and spot prizes galore. Bookings for tables of 10 at €750 will open on Monday, October 4th, and individual ticket sales will go on sale later in October. Demand is expected to be exceptionally high this year so patrons are advised to book early to avoid disappointment. The guest speaker on the night will be local man Ivan Yates – well-known TV personality, businessman and former politician. For tickets, contact the Chamber at 053 92 32006 or email: admin@enniscorthychamber.ie n
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Enjoying the last of the fine summer in Courtown COURTOWN ON 22nd AUGUST 2021: Top left: Eírinn and Kyle Burke. Top centre: Alex Perlik. Top right: Abbie Fennell, Summy Doody and Brody Grimes. Opposite: Happy with his fish and chips, Adam Stokes. Far right: Harry and mum Corina Davidson. Below left: Ryan Holbrook and Lucy Dempsey. Below right: Telya and Nevach Hunter.
1st October 2021 - Page 59
SlaNey SlaNeypetS ad
MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. T: (053) 9233187, 9236674. F: (053) 9236674. E: moynevet@gmail.com
VET DIARY FOR OCTOBER with the Moyne Veterinary Hospital
Joe Kavanagh recalls his father who started the practice 80 years ago today! The 1st October 1941, Simon Kavanagh, fresh out of college, took the brave move and set up his veterinary practice that has now evolved into the Moyne Veterinary Hospital. Eighty years to the day he began his fledgling career that would span six decades into a new century and through a multitude of changes both socially and economically. He started, as he used to say, 'in the war years when no one had anything'! Everything was rationed, from tea to sugar, flour to goods, services and petrol. He went on calls on a bike! I remember him saying that he treated three animals in his first six months of practice and two of those died!!.... Not deterred by the lack of custom or success, he persevered and gradually built up a name for himself as a young, energetic and competent vet, full of vim and vigour. His interests were broad and he did a huge amount of horse work, cows, pigs, sheep and dogs. It was unusual for a farm vet in those times to do work with dogs too as small-animal practice as we know it today was non existent. Simon had reared and raced greyhounds and often said that it was racing these greyhounds that kept him going in those early years. People had very little and he got paid with a few cabbages, turnips, spuds, whatever was in season. Little by little, he built it up, managed to do a stint in Argentina, bringing a shipment of Aberdeen Angus bulls to farms out on the pampas of Argentina. He was very well received over there and they offered him an open cheque to
stay but the call of Wexford was too strong and he landed back to his hometown to his own people. He was very innovative in his own way and was one of the first in Ireland to have his own ultrasound machines for therapeutic use. He had read an article about the American athletes being treated with this new technology at the Munich Olympics in 1972 and eventually through his big network of friends acquired one of these machines from the US. He successfully treated greyhounds and people alike long before the term physiotherapist was ever heard of here. Today, 80 years on, his legacy lives on. New techniques are employed, new ways of treating animals are performed from sophisticated surgeries to advanced diagnostic imaging techniques employed week in and week out at the practice. Complementary therapies, natural remedies close to his heart are used, dovetailing the conventional and alternative medicines to the best effect for the animals. The pioneering attributes of Simon 80 years ago still live on today and his efforts to bring a new level of service to his beloved county still hold true and the practice continues to grow in both the agri, equine and small animal sectors. For all the continued loyalty over the years, we say a huge thank you and look forward to the next chapter with optimism and enthusiasm. A legacy that Simon began that is still fostered to this day. n
If you have a topic you’d like Joe Kavanagh to address please email Slaney News at: slaneynews@gmail.com OPENING HOURS (6 DAYS A WEEK): 9.00am–1.00pm and 2.00pm–6.00pm Small animal clinic (please tel. for appointment): Daily 9.30–10.30am, 2.30–3.30pm, 5.00–6.00pm. 24-hour, on-call, Emergency Service: (053) 9233187.
OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: Full blood analysis (haematology, biochemistry) Gas anaesthetic – Digital X-rays – Ultrasound – Bioenergy Dermatological testing – Kinesiology – Prescription diets Herbal remedies – Homeopathy – Allergy testing
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CANINE NEWS The Green Dog Walker scheme is an initiative from Wexford County Council which is a positive and pro-active way to encourage and support responsible dog ownership in Wexford. It aims to increase awareness of the problem of dog fouling which is among the most common forms of littering. When you sign up to the scheme you will be sent a complimentary Green Dog-Walkers high-vis vest and a ‘doggie bone’ poop-bag dispenser with a roll of bags.
It was a sad time last month in Enniscorthy Golf Club as the club’s unofficial mascot Rocky passed away. Rocky was a constant presence around the club for the past decade, and entertained the members with his boundless enthusiasm and cheeky spirit. All his many friends at the club will miss him dearly around the place.
By signing up you have ‘Taken the Pledge’ to always clean up after your dog, to carry extra doggie bags and to gladly give others a bag for their dog if they ask for one. By wearing the Green Dog-Walkers high-vis vest you are indicating that you are a responsible dog-owner participating in and supporting the scheme. hhttps://www.wexfordcoco.ie/environment/biodiversitycommunity-and-schools/community-and-schools/green-dogwalker-scheme
Major donation will help neuter feral cats in the Enniscorthy area Money raised through a GoFundMe campaign, organised in memory of the late Jonathan Doyle, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow, who passed away on 7th August last year, resulted in the South East Animal Rescue (SEAR) charity shop in Enniscorthy receiving a cheque for €5,500 last month – the biggest single donation ever received by the charity. The fundraising was organised by Jonathan’s sister, Kim Lawless, to mark the anniversary of her brother’s passing. Jonathan loved animals of all kinds so SEAR was an obvious choice of beneficiary, and the charity is delighted with this most generous support from Kim and Jonathan’s family. It is planned to use the funds to help neuter feral cats in the Enniscorthy area. The charity explained that cats can have three litters every year, and can start breeding as early as six months old, so the funding will help in addressing this serious problem. n
September 2021: Andrea Hevey (volunteer), Kim Lawless (donor), Leah Hevey (volunteer), Jackie Polson (manager) and Breda Hevey at the presentation of the cheque for €5,500 to South East Animal Rescue Charity Shop.
1st October 2021- Page 61
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CAROLINE GETS MOTORING Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings us reviews of the latest new cars to arrive in Ireland. Caroline is the founder and editor of the online automotive magazine Changing Lanes and a jury member for Irish Car of the Year. Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at
www.changinglanes.ie
NISSAN QASHQAI The Nissan Qashqai is back. The Qashqai started the trend for crossovers and rose to fame in Ireland, for a time Ireland's bestselling car and a former Irish Car of the Year. Now in its third generation, the Nissan Qashqai has grown up. More visually imposing than the previous generation of the car, it has the kerb appeal of a top SUV. Following on from the 2020 launch of the all-new Nissan Juke, the new Qashqai translates Nissan's new design language and technology to the family SUV segment with great success. Pricing kicks off from €30,500 for the range, with all models powered from launch by a 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine
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with mild hybrid technology. Inside the Qashqai benefits from a new interior that feels a lot more modern than the previous generation of the car. The quality of the materials and the fit and finish is high for a rock solid feel required of a family car. Qashqai gets a suitable digital upgrade too with a digital instrument panel for the driver and a slick looking infotainment screen that's smartphone ready. Standard equipment includes LED headlights, auto headlights with high beam assist, rear parking sensors, 8" infotainment screen and wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Safety features include blind spot intervention, traffic sign recog-
nition, Intelligent Cruise Control, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, and Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking. The SV Premium model on test (from €37,395) includes a wireless phone charger, 9” touchscreen, 18" alloys, panoramic glass roof, rear view camera and rear privacy glass. The Qashqai has grown in stature, which benefits passenger space too. The new car is a bit wider and has a longer wheelbase than the car it replaces, with good sized footwells in the rear as a result. It feels more spacious inside than the previous Qashqai. There's also 50 more litres of boot space and the boot has a number of clever features to boost practicality like a
SlaNey motoriNg have been imported here in the car’s 14 year history. Nissan has sold over 3 million units of the car in Europe since its launch 13 years ago.
false floor that can be used to separate items or give a flat loading sill. A powered handsfree tailgate is also available. The most impressive feature is refinements to the ergonomic design of the door openings the rear doors now open to 90 degrees and it's easier to step in and out of the new model. Small things but it helps Qashqai function better as a family car than ever before. Interior Sitting on a new platform and powered by the 1.3-litre mild hybrid petrol engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox, my test car felt agile and supple on the road. The steering is faster, more defined and responsive. For a large SUV it's surprisingly agile and easy to drive with the manual gearbox, though a CVT automatic is also available (from €36,700). It's very comfortable, even on large wheels. The engine is refined and there is plenty of power from the 156 hp unit. It is very pleasant to drive. Nissan says the manual gearbox has been enhanced for a quicker, more direct and sportier shift feeling, and I can say it certainly felt good from behind the wheel. This is the only engine option for now.
It's an incredibly important car for Nissan. The new generation model has seriously grown up with the presence of a larger SUV. At launch the engine range does look very narrow but the 1.3-litre petrol is fun to drive and refined, though the upcoming hybrid is one to watch.
Some buyers might lament the demise of the diesel Qashqai. My average fuel consumption over a week of driving was 6.8 litres per 100 km so it's not the cheapest car in the park at the moment to run, over long distances at least. But the arrival of a new Qashqai 'e-POWER' hybrid in early 2022 will be one to watch, using a petrol engine to generate electricity, while the wheels are completely driven by an electric motor. The Qashqai has been an amazing success in Ireland since it launched here, with over 50,000 already on the road and a further 20,000-30,000 estimated to
Space matters and the Qashqai has grown in all the right directions. This car is still a solid buy, even more stylish than before with a well-finished cabin to see it into the next few years. Nissan has definitely upped the quality of this car. The legend returns! Model tested: Nissan Qashqai SV Premium Price: €37,395 Engine: 1.3-litre turbo petrol Power: 156 hp Torque: 260 Nm Top speed: 206 km/h Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 9.5 seconds CO2 emissions: 145 g/km Motor Tax: €270 per year n
AUTO TINTING TEL: 053 9430013 Arklow Road, Gorey
Lifetime Warranty Professional Accredited Installers Complete Range of Tints incl. NCT www.coatek.ie info@coatek.ie www.coatek.ie info@coatek.ie
AUTO REPAIR ENNISCORTHY
NCT Preparation – Repairs – Timing Belts Clutches – General Servicing – Etc No job too big or too small NCRS, Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy (opposite Cooney Furlong / Gala) Tel: 086-8299431 – 053 9233033 – Email: ncrallying@yahoo.ie
L&M STARTER & ALTERNATOR REPAIR SERVICE CARS, VANS, 4X4, TRUCKS, TRACTORS, MARINE, QUADS, LAWNMOWERS AND GENERATORS. WE REPAIR ALL UNITS. ALL APPLICATIONS CATERED FOR.
Island Road, Enniscorthy. T: (053) 9235933. 1st October 2021 - Page 63
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Gorey Mot Wells House Thumbs up from Evan Harris and Senna Sheane in their uncle’s 1954 Volkswagen car at the Gorey Motor Club day at Wells House & Gardens, 12th September 2021.
Hi from young Callum Whelan from his uncle’s Ford Cortina Mark 5.
Four right models: Angela Mulligan, Karen Tripp and Marie Gredley and of course the TRS at the Gorey Motor Club event.
Kevin and son Fionn O’Toole were at the Gorey Motor Club’s event at Wells House & Gardens.
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tor Club at e & Gardens Dylan and Sinead Kearns with their 1981 BMW 728i car at the Gorey Motor Club day at Wells House & Gardens, 12th September 2021.
Gorey Motor Club visited Wells House & Gardens on 12th September 2021 for a ‘Coffee and Cars’ event. With a BBQ and music on the terrace it was a great day out for all the family.
Above: At the Mark 4 Toyota Supra were Charlie and Trish Minpress. Below: Owen Murphy with his 1970 Mini car and daughter Penny with her own car on top.
Oh what a car! Young George Eckersley admiring the Mark 4 Toyota Supra at Gorey Motor Club’s event at Wells House & Gardens.
1st October 2021 - Page 65
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Age of vehicle fleet rises Vehicle history and data expert CARTELL.IE and vehicle sales platform CARSIRELAND.IE reported last month that the age of the fleet is increasing as owners hold onto their vehicles longer during the pandemic. The overall picture shows the age of the private fleet, both native and imported, has returned to a level last seen in July 2017. Cartell.ie tracked the age of the fleet (both native fleet and imported fleet) on the first day of each month between January 1999 and July 2021. Between July 2020 and July 2021 the fleet as a whole has advanced in age by 30 days from an average of 3150 days to 3180 days (+30 days). For the equivalent period the imported fleet has also increased from 3254 days to 3289 days (+35 days). The average age of a private car in Ireland, both native and imported, is now 8.7 years. The average age of an imported car in Ireland stands at 9 years. An indigenous Irish vehicle’s average age is currently 8.58 years. The age of the fleet oscillates throughout the year as vehicles leave the fleet and others enter. However the increase in age of the fleet since March 2020 (+81 days) has been particularly notable. This coincides with the worldwide pandemic. In March 2020 the difference in age between the imported fleet and the native fleet was +137 days while today the difference in age
has widened to +153 days meaning imported vehicles are, on average, older than they had been. Jeff Aherne, Innovation Lead, Cartell.ie, says: “Obviously there is a lot going on both with the pandemic, which has altered buying habits, and the drop in numbers of imported vehicles, coupled with a chip shortage in the industry for new vehicles. The fleet is certainly getting older at the moment. Whether this is part of a wider trend we can expect to see continue or whether the fleet age will begin to fall again when we leave the pandemic is an open question at this point. We would expect to see the age starting to decline again when things open up.” References: https://www.cartell.ie/2015/01/age-of-fleet-levels-off-as-carindustry-in-recovery/ https://www.cartell.ie/2017/11/age-fleet-falls-imports-timehigh/ https://www.cartell.ie/2018/10/age-private-fleet-dropsyounger-imports/ https://www.cartell.ie/2019/02/age-private-fleet-dropsyounger-import/ n
105,000 waiting for driving test At the beginning of September, there were 105,000 people nationally waiting on a driving test. Sinn Féin Deputy Johnny Mythen has called for more driving testers to be hired to help clear the massive backlog, with 2,091 people in Co. Wexford alone waiting on their test. The Wexford TD said: “At the Oireachtas Transport Committee in December, the Chairperson of the RSA, Liz O’Donnell, said; ‘In October the RSA made a submission to the Department for the recruitment of 80 extra driver testers, and I am hopeful that that will be approved soon’. “Almost one year on, figures released to Sinn Féin show just 37 extra driving testers are now in place. This comes at a time
when 105,480 people are waiting to sit a driving test across the state. It’s absolutely scandalous. “The problem is particularly bad in Co. Wexford where 2,091 people are waiting on a driving test. There are also a further 1,035 individuals who have applied, who are not currently eligible to take the test, but nonetheless will be needing a test in the coming months. “Minister Ryan has not addressed this problem through his Department. Obviously, he is failing to recognise the scale of the problem. Meanwhile college students and employees trying to get to work are facing huge problems without their driving licence. “It’s predominantly young people affected by these delays, which is having a massive impact on their lives. Young people deserve better. Minister Ryan needs to take action immediately and put in place the number of driving testers requested by the RSA almost one year ago, that are still not fully in place. The Minister needs to increase driving testing and theory testing capacity immediately to clear these waiting lists. “This should include the fast-track recruitment of staff, longer opening hours, and the establishment of pop-up centres in the areas with the longest waiting lists.” n
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SlaNey leiSUre
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Love dinosaurs? Love Luke! LOCAL MAN LUKE O'CONNELL COMBINES HIS LOVE OF DINOSAURS WITH HIS LOVE OF PERFORMING TO BRING DINOSAURS TO LIFE FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES... CATCH HIS ENNISCORTHY SHOW ON 23RD OCT.
Luke at his recent show at New Ross Library
Luke O’Connell recently brought his Dinosaur Day to New Ross Library and entertained two age groups there: 6-9 year olds and 912 year olds. Luke brought along a selection of both 3d printed fossil replicas of dinosaur teeth and bones, along with a small number of actual fossils to provide an authentic look into the lives of the most spectacular and interesting creatures of prehistory. He highlighted favourites such as Tyrannosaurus and Triceratops, but also brought to light some lesser known and equally fascinating animals in his wonderful storytelling manner. Luke is bringing his fun, interactive and educational workshop to Enniscorthy’s Presentation Centre on 23rd October. With fun, music and a visit from a very special baby Tyrannosaurus named Reggie, this is a great experience for children fascinated with the coolest animals the world has ever seen! Suitable for kids aged 5 to 12. This is a drop-off work workshop from 3pm until 4pm. Tickets will sell fast so early booking is strongly advised. So if your child is wild about dinosaurs, prehistoric beasts and nature, then they will love Luke’s one-of-a-kind workshops! Book now online at www.presentationcentre.ie https://www.facebook.com/LukesDeadlyDinosaurs
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Luke at his recent show at New Ross Library
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Kids Art Class 2021 The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, Wednesdays from October 6th to November 17th, 3.30pm - 5pm (no class during midterm). For Ages 8-11. Brought to you by artist Nadia Corridan. Tickets €80 (€10 discount for past participants – contact The Presentation Centre for more information). Runs for 6 weeks, each class is 90 mins. This series of art classes is a place where kids can explore their creative side – by having fun, learning new skills, building confidence and making new friends! Kids will explore different ways of creating art through Drawing, Fabric-Mix-Media Collage, Print-making and much more. As places are limited, book early through The Presentation Centre to avoid disappointment! Nadia Corridan is an artist based in Enniscorthy since 2016. She is a fine art painter with a BA Honours Degree from Limerick School of Art & Design. She has developed her career as a figurative oil painter. Her artwork can be viewed through social media and her website (nadiacorridan.ie) Please feel free to contact Nadia on 087-6762104 should you have any questions about your child attending this workshop. n
PURE MENTAL by Keith Walsh Pure Mental by Keith Walsh, December 1st at The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, at 8pm. Keith Walsh is Pure Mental. Having finished up a 5-year stint presenting on National Radio, in the pressure cooker that is a breakfast show, Keith has finally found a bit of time for himself. More importantly, he’s found time to check in with his mental health. Midlife crisis? Midlife awakening? Breakdown? We’ll find out. This show is part of his therapy and you’re his therapist! Join him on a journey of introspection and exploration, as he locates his demons and traumas in order to try and find the real person underneath the fuzzy mess of stress. Pure Mental is a live theatre show put together with the help of acclaimed performer, writer and director Janet Moran (A Holy Show, Swing and My Romantic History) in the strangest of Covid times - sometimes working in different rooms, often in different counties. But like many others, they got there in the end. We have a show! "You will laugh, you might cry, the voices in my head are telling me that you might want to throw rotten fruit at me? Is that still a thing? In the end we'll all feel a lot better. I hope." – Keith Walsh. Book online at www.presentationcentre.ie n
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Fun at Gorey Town & District Park At Gorey Town & District Park. Left: L-R: Ian and Lyla Harte, Zeppie Lee Clarke and Kim Austin. Right: Arianna Holmes. Below L-R: Matis Mazeika, Philip Halubiec, Karol Halubiec.
Above L-R: Scott Kavanagh. Tom Byrne. Lucy and Marie Byrne.
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Ivy Sisters – in a league of their own
The Ivy Sisters are a vintage vocal harmony trio – Aileen Donohoe, Jilly Cox and Sharon Clancy, all based in County Wexford. These glamorous gals, with killer vocals, are all dressed up with somewhere to go. They have performed in St. Michael's Theatre, New Ross, Wexford Arts Centre, the inaugural Johnstown Castle Lake Arts Festival in August and the recent Johnstown Jazz day on 11th September. The Ivy Sisters also featured in the Wexford Festival Opera Fringe Programme 2020. With live performances returning apace, expect to see, and hear, a lot more of The Ivy Sisters in the weeks and months ahead starting with their fabulous Spooktacular Show in Wexford Arts Centre on 30th September. Prepare to be seduced by their close harmonies and vocal dynamics as they ‘Put a Spell on You’ and take you to ‘Wuthering Heights’ in a night of spooky fun, song, music and giggles. Fancy-dress prizes on the night for best audience costumes. For more information or to book tickets: https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.com/ shows/873620862
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Drama is
back at WAC
WEXFORD ARTS CENTRE – DRAMA IN OCTOBER 2021: A Wilde Fan 8 & 9 Oct n The Beauty Queen of Leenane 15 & 16 Oct n I am Baba 16 Oct n Eden 21 & 22 Oct
For full details and booking see https://www.wexfordartscentre.ie/events/
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Wexford Arts Centre | Sat 2nd & 9th Oct | Little Artists Camp | 10am – 11:15am Little Artists ages 4-7 learn in a fun environment, with activities to encourage children’s creativity whilst developing their fine motor skills. Wexford Arts Centre | Sat 2nd & 9th Oct | Saturday Art Camp | 11:30am – 12:45pm Saturday Art Club ages 8-12 gives older children the opportunity to learn about the technical aspects of artmaking while working with a team of professional artists. Wexford Arts Centre | Wednesday 6th Oct | Na Cailleacha Film Screening & Panel Talk | 7pm Join on Wednesday 6th October at 7pm for a screening of the documentary Dawn to Dusk by Therry Rudin followed by a panel talk with members of Na Cailleacha facilitated by Journalist Olivia O’Leary. Wexford Arts Centre | Thursday 7th Oct | Frederick Douglass Festival Film Screening ‘Harriet’ | 7:30pm Based on the story of iconic freedom fighter and abolitionist Harriet Tubman, Harriet follows Tubman from her escape from slavery through the dangerous missions she led to liberate hundreds of slaves through the Underground Railroad. Wexford Arts Centre | Fri 8th & Sat 9th Oct | A Wilde Fan | 8:00pm From a young age, acclaimed actor and playwright Myles Breen has been Oscar Wilde’s biggest fan. This new solo performance celebrates the poet, playwright, and novelist – recounting the affect Wilde has had on his own work, and indeed his life. Wexford Arts Centre | Tuesday 12th Oct | Picture House presents ‘Pain & Glory – Dolor Y Gloria’ | 8:00pm Starring Antonio Banderas and Penelope Cruz. Veteran director Salvador Mallo (Banderas) currently suffers many health issues, which he blames for the creative rut he finds himself in. Wexford Arts Centre | Friday 15th Oct | Kevin Lawlor Quintet ‘Stramash’ at Greenacres | 8pm
'Stramash' is the second instalment of music written for quintet that focuses on long form composition and is the sequel to 'Last Days of Summer' released in 2018. Wexford Arts Centre | Fri 15th & Sat 16th Oct | The Beauty Queen of Leenane | 8pm The Beauty Queen of Leenane is a blackly comic modern Irish classic from playwright Martin McDonagh. It portrays the manipulative Mag and her virginal daughter Maureen as they play out a battle of mutual loathing against the beautiful backdrop of the Connemara Hills. Wexford Arts Centre | Saturday 16th Oct | I am Baba | 10am, 11am, 1pm I am Baba is a theatre adventure for babies created by internationally renowned theatre director Anna Newell and award-winning composer David Goodall. Wexford Arts Centre | Tuesday 19th Oct | Picture House presents Le Brio | 8:00pm Neïla is a first-year law student of Algerian descent, who hails from one of the sprawling suburbs of Paris. On her first day at the renowned Assas University she clashes with Pierre Mazard, a controversial law professor. Wexford Arts Centre | Thur 21st Fri 22nd Sat 23rd Oct | Decadent Theatre presents Eden | 8pm Eden is the powerful story of an ordinary relationship on an extraordinary weekend. Billy and Breda are approaching their 10th wedding anniversary. Wexford Arts Centre | Thur 28th Oct | Jazz on an Autumn’s Evening – A Tribute to Anita O’Day | 8pm Back by popular demand, Melanie O’Reilly returns with a celebration of the legendary Irish American jazz singer Anita O’Day, capturing the essence of an unconventional musical genius. Wexford Arts Centre | Friday 30th Oct | The Ivy Sisters | 8pm Join The IVY Sisters this Halloween for their fabulous Spooktacular Show. Prepare to be seduced by their close harmonies and vocal dynamics as they ‘Put A Spell on You’ and take you to ‘Wuthering Heights’ in a night of ‘Spooky’ fun, song, music and giggles. n
Byrne continues to advocate for the arts Senator Malcolm Byrne along with his Fianna Fáil colleagues on the Oireachtas Committee on Tourism, Culture, Arts, Sport, and Media, are calling for the State to develop a voucher scheme for 2022 that will allow every child and young person between the ages of 4 and 18 to access an approved series of classes in art, music, dance, drama or a creative activity. They are also asking that the budget increase in funding to the Arts Council last year by €50m be at least maintained for 2022. Senator Malcolm Byrne commented, “We believe that every single young person should have access to creative activity. We want to support and simulate imagination. An understanding of creativity, the arts and design will encourage students to think differently and strategically. Young
people have made enormous sacrifices over the past eighteen months. We want to recognise that by investing in their creative potential.” The group are proposing that vouchers would be provided through schools (and youth training facilities for those who have left school early) for use at approved arts/music education providers. It would be a matter for each child or young person to choose how they would use the voucher. A scheme with a €200 voucher provided for and used by each of the 560,000 primary school children and 365,000 second level students would cost about €185 million. This resource will support the local creative sector in all communities, and classes and businesses that have been under pressure over the past eighteen Senator Malcolm Byrne months. n
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Doing Wexford proud in Miss Ireland Mindulee Seneviratne (19), from Wexford Town, did her county proud at the recent national final of Miss Ireland, and scooped the sash for the ‘Most Talented’ in the competition thanks to a stunning solo performance at the final of the famous Whitney Heuston song One Moment in Time. The Biological and Biomedical Sciences student took her place proudly beside Pamela Uba (25) from Galway City who was crowned Miss Ireland at the spectacular outdoor show and sparkling ceremony at Lakeside Manor, Co. Cavan. In recent years the Miss Ireland Franchise has raised over €250,000 for various charities including Laura Lynn, Temple Street, Alzheimer’s Ireland, Pieta House, The Cari Foundation and this year partnered with Variety Ireland, an Irish charity helping sick, disadvantaged and children with special needs since 1951. Diversity was very apparent at Miss Ireland this year with an eclectic mix of finalists from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds – perhaps a reflection of a new generation and a new Ireland. The competition winner, Pamela, grew up in direct provision after moving to Ireland with her family from South Africa when she was just eight years old. Today, she is a very proud Irish Citizen and a graduate of Trinity College with a master’s degree in clinical chemistry. Pamela hopes to use her Miss Ireland title to represent a more diverse Island on the world stage and believes education is a superpower. The 30 finalists this year were put through their paces in a challenging competitive process spread over three months testing their skills in debating, public speaking, sports, modelling, social media etc and each finalist was tasked with raising much-needed awareness and funds for their chosen charities. Proud sponsors of this year's Miss Ireland included VanityX Makeup Academy, Mane 'n Tail, Simply Divine, ONEFIT, Hairitage, Choicely, The Headford Arms Hotel, Lash Dolls Beauty and Training Academy and Lakeside Manor Hotel. Full details on Miss Ireland 2021 are available on the new Miss Ireland App now available from Apple App Store or Google Play or from www.miss-ireland.ie or follow @missirelandorg on social media. n
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Left and above: Wexford town’s Mindulee Seneviratne
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The famous rock ‘n’ roll scene in Enniscorthy is back!
The famous rock ‘n’ roll scene in Enniscorthy is back with a bang this month with a major live gig presented by SE RnR Club featuring the fabulous Moonrockers on Sunday 24th October at 9pm in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy. Kindly sponsored by TK Cabs. For updates, check out: https://www.facebook.com/RocknRollTownEnniscorthy
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A Glorious
A fashion series b
This month as we enter the season of
Puffer jackets are most definitely the staple
mists and mellow fruitfulness, fashion
in the wardrobe for autumn/winter 2021
echoes the warm, deep autumnal tones
with or without sleeves, along with
of russet, amber, forest green, burnt or-
the one size fits all, beautifully embel-
ange, mulberry, blackberry and plum.
lished shirts that look classy over either
As temperatures begin to dip a little, it’s not quite time for the heavy chunky knits,
Be sure to hold on to those midi
hats, gloves and scarves but rather for the
dresses that can be worn with boots
layering up effect of the classic white shirt
for that boho casual elegance and
topped with this season’s favourite, the
with cabled sweaters and knitted
vest knit or the long, over-sized cosy cardi-
vests or comfy long-line cardigans
gan.
in all the colours of the rainbow.
The vest knit, for those of us of a certain
Knitted dresses are back with a
vintage, resembles the tank top and is the
bang in easy to wear designs
perfect transition item for this in-between
that suit almost every shape and
time of the year along with the longer
size and can be embellished
length gilet enjoying a surge in popularity
with matching scarves or con-
at the moment.
trasting wraps for that snug
The pleated skirt continues to retain its
but smart appearance.
trendy status and can be seen on the high
To sum up, I would say
street in an eclectic mixture of the muted
that as we reluctantly relin-
blends of autumn or in delicate shades of
quish our sensational In-
rose pink, clotted cream and of course
dian summer for the mists
ageless black.
and magic of autumn/
These pleated skirts can be teamed with short, cabled knits creating a soft, fashionable, feminine, yet cosy and comfortable look.
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leggings or jeans.
winter, fashion is still all about comfort and easy wear elegance but with a sharper
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Obsession
by Maria Nolan
Maria Nolan
and more classic cut to it, as we stride hopefully into more Covid free times and regain our lives and our glorious glamour in time for the festive season just round the corner. But more about that in next month’s issue. – Maria Nolan
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Halloween at Enniscorthy Castle Horrifying Halloween Tales at the Castle with renowned Storyteller and Folklorist Lorraine O’Dwyer (Gallivanting.ie) Saturday 23rd October 2021, from 7 pm - 8.30 pm. Seated indoor event. Suitable for Adults only. Ticket price €10. Pre-booking required. Tickets will be available to purchase from the Castle Reception from Wednesday 6 October onward. This event will take place in-line with the public health guidelines on the date of the event, 23 October 2021.
WEXFORD... GET READY! Wexford on Ice is back from the 27th of November to the 5th of January. Tickets on sale now from https://wexfordonice.com
Paddy Berry’s Ballad Books Wexford Ballads First published in 1982 now updated and reprinted 2021. Comprising 145 ballads, songs and recitations collected in the 1970s.
More Wexford Ballads First published 1987, now reissued, 162 ballads, songs, recitations. Both books available in all bookshops and tourist outlets, or from: Paddy Berry, Rowesmount, Drinagh, Wexford, or email paddy@bawndevelopments.ie Page 78 - 1st October 2021
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Cinematic celebrations at the Chapel What an abundance of literary talent we have right here in Enniscorthy and its hinterland, evidenced recently by Dubhtire Productions who staged no less than three short films at the atmospheric Chapel Theatre in our beautiful Presentation Centre. Each of the three films Memento, Juliet & Romeo and Besties 2 carried its own distinct message but none more so than Besties, directed and produced by Jer Ennis and Dick Donaghue and with a star-studded cast of local talent – Maeve Ennis, Summer Venn Keane, Cameron Cloke, Joe Harris, Karen Franklin, Jer Ennis, Jennafer Boyd, Jennifer Kelly, Catherine Ennis, this is a film with a very clear and strong message for our youth and to my mind should be shown in schools all over the county and indeed the country. It highlights the ease with which our young people can become embroiled in today’s ever-present, ever-threatening drugs culture and the peer pressure they are constantly subjected to. This film is a must for all young people regardless of how cool they consider themselves to be and all parents regardless of how much they think they know. Excellently produced and directed and
mighty congratulations to the young cast particularly Maeve Ennis and Summer Venn Keane, these two are going places, mark my words, strongly supported by Joe Harris and Cameron Cloke, another pair who could easily have a future on bigger screens, as well as the very youthful Jennifer Kelly, who is simply a natural on stage or in front of a camera and the versatile Karen Franklin who just the week before was performing on stage with Enniscorthy Drama in Wild in the Country.
A most entertaining evening with all proceeds going to Hospice Homecare, a very deserving and worthy charity. Well done to all for a most enjoyable and uplifting event, all three films shot locally and featuring local casts, how uplifting is that. To Jer Ennis and Dick Donaghue I say keep up the good work guys, you’re giving us Hollywood at home right here in Enniscorthy. – Maria Nolan
Top photo Back row L-R: Jer Ennis, Dick Donaghue, Joe Harris. Front row L-R: Catherine Ennis, Summer Venn Keane, Karen Franklin, Jennafer Boyd. Left: Marja van Kampen, Dick Donaghue. Right: Karen Franklin with her dad Jimmy Franklin. Pics: Maria Nolan.
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For lovers of musical theatre... Two great shows coming up: Magic of the Musicals and Movies - see page 71 Hits from the Musicals – see page 82
Reuben’s Dublin show Best of luck to Enniscorthy singer-songwriter Reuben Hester with his upcoming, headlining show in Dublin on Saturday 16th October at 8pm upstairs in Whelan’s famous venue on Wexford Street.
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Doubly celebrating the big 3-0
Twins Lisa and Mark O’Connor celebrate their 30th Birthday in T Morris Bar, Monck Street, Wexford, 25th September. Above left: Lisa O’Connor with boyfriend Blayne Dalton. Above right: Mark O’Connor, his mother Theresa O’Connor, Lisa O’Connor and sister Aoife Fitzgibbon. As we go to press, we’ve learned that Mark has just a won a car in the Model County Draw. Congrats Mark!
Libraries now offering more services Libraries in County Wexford are now offering a fuller range of services including browsing, borrowing, computer use, study, printing and photocopying. Until recently, library services were limited to borrowing only under public health guidelines. Now, there is no need to book to visit the library, but study and computer spaces should be reserved in advance on the website or by phone. The numbers of visitors in each library browsing and using study and computer spaces will be limited to facilitate social distancing. The wearing of masks is mandatory. Outdoor events continue to be held in some libraries weather permitting. Full details of the events on offer are available on the library website. Indoor events and activities are expected to resume from 22nd October pending the lifting of government restrictions. Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy said, “I warmly welcome the fuller opening of the five public libraries in County Wexford. Our library buildings are real hubs of our community and I am delighted to welcome the many users, young and old, back to the library. I encourage people to use the full range of free library services available.”
Children are very welcome to visit to their local library when accompanied by an adult to pick their own selection of reading. County Librarian Eileen Morrissey said “We are delighted to again be able to offer study and computer spaces to the public. These are important resources for jobseekers, students and researchers. There are so many free services on offer in your local library and we invite people to come in, browse, sit and read and avail of the services in a safe manner.” Information on New Library App: The library App gives you a quick and easy way to manage your account and search the library catalogue on your
smart phone or tablet. Once you're a member you can use the App to:
Access and manage your library account Issue and return items Reserve and renew items Locate your nearest branch library and see its opening hours View a list of upcoming library events Download eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines, eComics and eGraphic novels
If your device has a self-focusing camera, you can also scan the barcode of any book in a bookshop to see if the libraries have a copy and place a request. Download Wexford Libraries app from the App Store or Google Play. n
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Courthouse Arts Centre welcomes captivating duo Like coffee and cake, fish and chips or Fred and Ginger, some pairings just can’t be topped. The exquisite combination of violin and harp is most definitely a match made in heaven, and no more so than in this new collaboration between Irish violinist Mairead Hickey and French harpist Anais Gaudemard. Celebrated for her expression, soaring tone and fearless virtuosity, Mairead Hickey’s natural ability to communicate sincerely and with beauty and integrity has entranced audiences worldwide. Anais Gaudemard is recognised as a musician of exceptional talent whose mastery of her instrument alongside an ability to deliver extraordinarily expressive performances has won her widespread acclaim. Featuring a beautiful selection of music by Bach, Saint-Saens, Massenet, Viardot, Spohr and a brand new Music Network commission, their programme will delight and enthral music lovers. Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely, Saturday 9th October 8.30pm, €16/€14 www.courthousearts.ie
Enniscorthy’s favourite musical duo – Kermie (Kerry and Jamie) are back on the road! Jamie Murphy tells us, “Lads... we'd love to play anywhere at this stage... We are back at it. Give us a bell and let us bring some much needed joy to you!!! We do dos and functions, weddings and wakes....” Contact the duo through Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamieandkerry Kerry and Jamie – back on the road.
Mairead Hickey (violin) & Anais Gaudemard (harp). As we go to press it has been announced that Agnès Clément will replace Anais Gaudemard on this Irish tour.
Young Enniscorthy man Eoin Devereux is a talented musician and songwriter who has just released a new song titled Jigsaw, which follows up on his recent releases: Going My Own Way, Fall and Save and Falling Apart. You can listen to Jigsaw on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/1p6i1KrDjIficLeMVaWSAq?si=Sm6eVOOPTWKtEbjq9Pf _7A&utm_source=copy-link&dl_branch=1
Congratulations to Brendan and the team at
The Orchard Recording Studio Now celebrating ten years in business in Enniscorthy. Get in touch for a chat about your upcoming project. The Studio offers recording/production editing/mixing, mobile recording, session drumming, music/sound/production workshops… also drum lessons! Contact Brendan at: info@orchardrecording.ie or phone 087-9523253
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Proudly supporting the Shamrocks
O'Callaghan’s Centra proudly presenting the Shamrocks Hurling & Football Club’s U-9 team with their new jersies.
All-Ireland Champions
Looking pretty in
The Enniscorthy Golf Club Charity Weekend on 26th and 27th Sept was a great success with everyone entering into the spirit of the event. Over €10,000 was raised which will be divided between Breast Cancer Research and It's Good to Talk.
Fortune favours the brave Enniscorthy native Joe Fortune has been appointed as Westmeath’s new hurling manager, succeeding Shane O’Brien, and marking his first foray into senior intercounty management. The Dublin-based Fortune is taking charge for an initial twoyear term with the option of a third year, as the Joe McDonagh Cup champions prepare for life back among the Liam MacCarthy Cup heavyweights in 2022. Westmeath were relegated to Division 2A following a winless top-flight league campaign this spring, but victory in the Joe McDonagh Cup final secured their return to the Leinster championship for the 2022 season. Fortune is a native of Enniscorthy but is more closely associated with hurling in the capital where he has left an indelible imprint, steering Dublin to Leinster titles at minor level (2007) and U-21 (2016). More recently he managed Ballyboden St Enda’s to the 2018 Dublin senior hurling crown, but he stepped down from the Boden hotseat in the wake of last year’s county final defeat to Cuala.
Congrats to Sarah Figgis and Aoife McCrea of the Rapparees/ Starlights on their recent All-Ireland camogie success with the county.
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This year he was part of James Sheil’s Wexford U-20 management team. His backroom team will be announced in the coming weeks. n
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n pink!
Declan Lyons and Deirdre Kavanagh won Best Dressed Pink Gent and Lady.
President's (Jim Byrne) Prize to the Ladies which was held on 28th Sept. Top pic: Lady Captain Meta Cummins, President Jim Byrne and Teresa Bailey (2nd). Above: Lady Captain Meta Cummins, Ciara Sharkey (Gross) and President Jim Byrne. Below: Lady Captain Meta Cummins, Aine O'Connell (1st) and President Jim Byrne.
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If Carlsberg did C If Carlsberg did County Finals, then the recent Senior Hurling Final at Chadwicks Wexford Park on Sunday 19th September would be it. Basking in glorious September sunshine, the Covid-restricted attendance enjoyed what could only be described as Champagne hurling as Rapparees defeated St. Annes on a scoreline of 6.18 to 1.17, to end the famine lingering long in Enniscorthy since 1978. A victory, some would say, ordained in the Heavens, as captain Kevin Foley lifted the Cup and ended the years of anguish and despair suffered by followers of the Red and Green. Following their first Senior title in 1978, Rapparees teams have floundered at the final hurdle on several occasions, beaten by Cloughbawn in a replay in 1993, by Rathnure in 1996 and 1998 and by the Faythe Harriers in 2001, before experiencing the barren wasteland of the past twenty years as they struggled to get back to former glory. It would be only fair to point out that during that period of hurling drought our footballers, the Starlights, won four Senior County Football titles in 2002, 2004, 2017 and last year 2020 and indeed our hurlers were contesting semi-finals along the way falling narrowly short of the finishing line. But on County Final Sunday, after the first ten minutes of the game, where St. Annes appeared to be marginally on top, Rapparees simply moved up a gear and completely stole the show from
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County Finals... then until the final whistle sounded to the delight of the Enniscorthy town fans. And a show indeed it was, despite the fact that it was a one-sided affair from almost half-time. It was compelling viewing for spectators, as Rapparees put on a display of classic hurling seldom seen on County Final days, ending with the highest score ever in a final and, to their credit, the Annes never gave up and never stopped trying. The years of pain and hurt were erased from the hearts and minds of the Bellefield faithful, as their heroes, one to fifteen and those introduced as substitutes, lifted the twenty-year siege with as fine a display as ever witnessed on Wexford’s green fields. The men of 2021, led by captain Kevin Foley and managed by Declan Skippy Ruth, Gareth Kavanagh and Brian Kehoe, who themselves had lost several county finals as players, secured their place forever in club history. Never in the future, will hurling be talked about at Bellefield, home of the Rapparees/Starlights and now home of the Senior hurling and football champions, without mention of the team of 2021. Their outstanding victory has lifted, not just the Rapparees, but the entire town of Enniscorthy, emerging as it is from the depths of pandemic. G`wan the Rapps! – Words by Maria Nolan and pics by Maria Nolan and PJ Howlin
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Congratulations to Slaney Olympic’s Anne Gilshinan on setting yet another national record last month. Anne competed in the 5k at Le Cheile athletics track and set a new National Record (F55) in a time of 18:12.42.
Rapparees captain Kevin Foley celebrates the club’s recent county final success with family and friends.
Grants Pharmacy – supporting the stars of the future Grants Pharmacy has very kindly sponsored beautiful new jerseys for the Rapparees camogie girls. The club would also like to mention Brian
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Walsh Hurleys for the excellent design.
Seamus Doyle and Colm Sunderland who
All the girls put in brilliant performances this year in all their games helped by their wonderful coaches and mentors especially
are doing trojan work with the ladies section. The club certainly has a lot to look forward to for the future. n
SlaNey Sport
MY SPORT SUMMER LEAGUE RECAP The My Sport Summer League came to an official end last month with the Annual Summer League BBQ. Slaney Olympic is celebrating 30 years as a club in 2021, and the 2021 Summer League was definitely one for the record books. For starters, hosting the Summer League in compliance with Covid-19 proved challenging, but Jessie O’Connor (League Organiser) and his team got creative and pulled it off. All the races were moved to Enniscorthy, masks were worn, pods were created and for those who could not make the races, they had the option of running the course over the weekend. In the end, there were nine teams comprising five to six members: The Moyne, Abbey Square, Milehouse, Carley’s Bridge, Market Square, Templeshannon, Bohreen Hill, Vinegar Hill and The Still. Over 50 Slaney Olympic members participated in the My Sport Summer League and many of those who ran each race improved their times with each successive race. The league races were: 1 Mile, Old Dublin Road (21 May); 5K, Dublin Road (4 June); 2 Miles, Clonhaston (2 July); 1 Mile, Enniscorthy Sports Hub (9 July); 2 Miles, Clonhaston (30 July); 5K, Enniscorthy Bypass (20 August) and Team Relays, Enniscorthy Sports Hub (2 September). From the start of the My Sport Summer League, Vinegar Hill operated on all cylinders having led the league table from start to finish. Vinegar Hill dominated most of the races having won five of the seven races and finished the league with 18 points, well ahead of the nearest competition. However, the real battle throughout the league was for second place, which ultimately came down to three teams: Carley’s Bridge, Bohreen Hill and Templeshannon. This battle could not have gotten much closer as Carley’s Bridge finished second with 25 points, Bohreen Hill finished third with 26 points and Templeshannon finished fourth with 28 points. Throughout the league, it looked like the battle was only between Carley’s Bridge and Bohreen Hill, but Templeshannon kept within striking distance but ultimately kept it too late to make its move. Unfortunately, the second-place finish in the Team Relays was not enough to get back in the mix. Market Square was able to blow past The Still for a fifth-place finish (37 points). After the second race, it looked like Market Square was destined to be the basement dweller of the league as it found itself dead last. However, after a few respectable races, it was able to battle back to mid-table. The Still on the other hand, looked like it was going to be a strong team, having finished in the top four three times. After Race 5, The Still was only two points off Templeshannon but faded from there adding a staggering 17 points over the last two races ultimately finishing in sixth place with 41 points. The three teams that could not pull off a Market Square were Milehouse (42 points), Abbey Square (47 points) and The Moyne (51 points). These three teams were at the bottom of the table after Race 3 and virtually remained unchanged throughout the League, although Abbey Square was able to get Denis Whelan back for the last race after injury and was able to move out of ninth place.
Special Thanks: Covid-19 has had an impact on all elements of society and athletics is no different. This year more than any other year, the Slaney Olympic Winter League and Summer League were key to athletes getting out and competing again. The ability to hold leagues are only possible because of the strong support from club members and others in the community. One such organisation that has been a steadfast supporter of Slaney Olympic AC and athletics in Enniscorthy is My Sport. John O’Leary at My Sport generously donated prizes for the Winter League and stepped up again for the Summer League and donated €400 in gift vouchers, these vouchers were given to members of the top three teams. In addition to My Sport, the Summer League would not be possible without the dedication of the My Sport Summer League Organiser (Jessie O’Connor). Jessie not only serves as the Men’s Captain / Coach for Slaney Olympic, but he also tirelessly gives his time to Wexford Athletics and is currently running a marathon a week for charity. A lot of time and effort goes into managing and planning the Summer League and every member is truly thankful for all the hard work Jessie puts into this league and the weekly training programmes. Other special thanks should be extended to Paul Browne, Paul Murphy and Esther O’Leary, who assisted Jessie with putting on the My Sport Summer League races. Additionally, these races are not possible without marshals who ensure that runners are safe out on the course. Finally, a special shout-out should be given to Enda Waters who wrote brilliant race recaps this summer. Membership: With winter closing in, perhaps now is the time to challenge yourself by running. Training is held every Tuesday and Thursday from 7-8pm at the Enniscorthy Sports Hub. If you are interested in joining the Club, why not go along for a training session. For further information, please contact Enda Waters (Registrar) or Paul Browne (Chairperson) via the Club’s Facebook Messenger. n
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the third annual Eugene O'Neill International Festival of Theatre returns to St. Michael's Theatre New Ross, October 15th - 17th 2021
New Ross Drama Workshop presents
More Stately Mansions
Four Rivers presents
Eugene O'Neill One Act Plays
by Eugene O’Neill
The Beauty Queen of Leenane
in Rehearsed Readings:
in a Staged Reading
By Martin MacDonagh
Recklessness
Directed by Ben Barnes
Where the Cross is Made
Ireland’s first staging of this epic play in two parts
A Wife for Life
St Michael's Theatre, New Ross
St Michael's Theatre, New Ross
Saturday October 16th
Sunday 17th October 8.00pm
Friday 15th October 8.00pm
3.30pm and 8.00pm
Admission €23
Admission €12
Admission €30
The New Ross Drama Workshop will present a staged reading of three of Eugene O’ Neill’s plays at the opening night of the festival.
The play, as one commentator has put it, offers “a vision of American history which borrows from the past in order to create images of the present and future.”
A blackly comic modern Irish classic from renowned playwright and Golden Globewinning filmmaker Martin McDonagh (In Bruges, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri). It portrays the manipulative Mag and her virginal daughter Maureen as they play out a battle of mutual loathing against the beautiful but unforgiving backdrop of the Connemara hills.
Under the capable artistic direction of two of the group’s directorial protagonists Margaret Rossiter and Peggy Hussey, the members of the group will present rehearsed readings of ‘Recklessness’, ‘Where the Cross is Made’ & ‘A Wife for Life’. The plays, part of the author’s early work, allow the words of O’Neill to hold centre stage as themes of maritime adventures, prospecting in the wild west and the intricacies of love emerge.
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The play features the familial tensions, the jealousies and resentments that typify O’Neill’s work and surface so memorably in his play Long Day’s Journey into Night, composed as O’Neill’s interest in the eleven play cycle waned. The play also examines the great figure in O’Neill, “the possessor selfdispossessed” (as the subtitle of the eleven play cycle puts it) or the man who gains the world only to lose his soul, a tragic phenomenon O’Neill explored repeatedly through his work.
Directed by Ben Barnes St Michael's Theatre, New Ross
Ben Barnes directs a cast led by Irish stage legend Marion O’Dwyer (as Mag), with Sarah Madigan, Mark Fitzgerald and Tiernan Messitt-Greene. n
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'Where Three Waters Meet' 'Where Three Waters Meet' Podcast Series with Sylvia Cullen A new collection of short stories set in County Wexford, and recorded as a podcast series, has been launched at Gorey Library. Where Three Waters Meet by writer Sylvia Cullen has been funded and supported by Wexford County Council in partnership with Creative Ireland. Based around the theme of survival, each of the four pieces explores a different aspect of what it can mean to survive in dire circumstances, with characters facing traumatic choices and having to dig deep to find ways to endure. The phrase ‘where three waters meet’ signifies the best place to draw water from, when seeking a cure for any disease that weakens or wastes the body. Cullen commented, ‘I am really delighted to have had the opportunity to create this new body of work. Stories may not provide a cure, but they can offer badly-needed sustenance for the imagination.’ The series was conceived in response to the Covid pandemic, drawing on Wexford’s past history, in order to illuminate our present. Each of the stories takes place in a different location across the county and they are all read by the author. You can access the series of podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you usually get your podcasts.
County Librarian and Wexford Creative Ireland Co-ordinator Eileen Morrissey commented, “Creative Ireland is delighted to see the launch of Where Three Waters Meet. Sylvia was one of nine creatives who were the recipients of bursaries that spoke to the themes of place, heritage and wellbeing. The stories that Sylvia has written are beautifully crafted and allow us to reflect on adversity, endurance and resilience. Reading has been a haven for many people during this pandemic and I encourage everyone to listen to and enjoy Where Three Waters Meet through podcast.” The four stories are as follows: Red Soldier - A fifteen-year-old girl is herding her father’s flock of sheep on Annagh Hill near Gorey, when she notices one ewe sick with swine plague. The Fever Wall - Clohamon 1741, the Year of Slaughter: Spotting symptoms of famine fever, a mother is forced to confine her teenage son alone in the family home, while she waits for the doctoring man to come, the boy’s fever burns. Little Miss Quill and Mister Sinnott - A macabre love story featuring an elderly pauper couple, set during the 1848 cholera epidemic in Wexford town. The Lanternist - May 1913: At the Enniscorthy Asylum, Dr. Travers is on the verge of despair after losing his seventeenth patient in a month, to influenza. n
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Wexford Festival Opera opens 19th October The 2021 WFO 13-day programme, celebrating Wexford’s 70th anniversary, looks forward to welcoming live audiences back into the National Opera House from 19th to 31st October 2021 to experience the magic that is Wexford Festival Opera. Full details of the operas, concerts, etc can be found on the website: https://www.wexfordopera.com
BOOK TICKETS NOW: Online at https://bit.ly/3DY1cMu By email: boxoffice@wexfordopera.com By telephone: +353 53 912 2144 / 1850 4 OPERA In person at National Opera House Box Office 9:30am to 5:00pm, Monday - Saturday n
The Wexford Festival – The Early Years An exhibition of rarely seen photographs of the early years of the Wexford Festival is on show at Wexford Town Library from September 20 to October 17, 2021. The eighteen black and white photographs capture background scenes of the inaugural ‘The Wexford Festival’ in 1951, when Dr. Tom Walsh and his committee staged The Rose of Castile in the Georgian Theatre Royal. Among the photographs are stage designs and preparations for the William Balfe opera, and portraits of the very first Wexford volunteers. The exhibition, supported by Creative Ireland and curated by Tom Mooney, pays homage to the men and women who put their shoulder to the wheel in the early years of the 1950s, and helped the festival take root. It is largely because of their vision and endeavour that Wexford is in a position to mark the seventieth anniversary of a festival which, many decades later, won the highly coveted Best Festival category at the International Opera Awards in 2016. After The Rose of Castile, the young Festival believed that its future lay in its ability to present little known operas, specifically Italian. In its first decade, Wexford would stage eleven works by five Italian composers: Donizetti, Bellini, Puccini, Rossini and Verdi.
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Touching hands outside White’s Hotel are Halinka de Tarczynska and Nicola Monti, members of the cast of ‘La Sonnambula’ in 1954.
The exhibition reflects the burgeoning relationship between the small Irish town and Italy in the 1950s and which continues to this day. n
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Na Cailleacha Film Screening & Panel Talk
Na Cailleacha Film Screening & Panel Talk 6 Oct 2021, 7pm. Free admission. Wexford Arts Centre is “delighted to welcome you all back... Things will look and feel a bit different, including our opening hours and access. Please read our Covid Protocol before visiting us. Please note that this event will take place under current social distancing measurements as per current Government guidelines. “Join us on Wednesday 6th October at 7pm for a screening of the documentary Dawn to Dusk by Therry Rudin followed by a panel talk with members of Na Cailleacha facilitated by Journalist Olivia O’Leary. This event coincides with The Age of Reason/Unreason (Part 3), a group show currently on view in Wexford Arts Centre with artists Helen Comerford, Barbara Freeman, Patricia Hurl, Maria Levinge, Therry Rudin, and Gerda Teljeur, art historian/curator Catherine Marshall, and composer Carole Nelson. Through painting, drawing, film and performance, the group collectively known as Na Cailleacha – the Irish word for witches – explore the nuanced process of growing older.
health and collective practice from an older feminist perspective. They are committed to raising awareness and promoting public discussion about these issues, in keeping with Gloria Steinem’s assertion that ‘Women may be the one group that grows more radical with age’. Olivia O’Leary has presented current affairs programmes for the last three decades for both RTE and the British Channels, BBC and ITV. As a print journalist, she has written about politics for both the Sunday Tribune and the Irish Times. She is the presenter of RTE Radio 1’s The Poetry Programme. n Olivia O’Leary
The Collective, all, bar one, over 70 years of age, came together to explore issues around creativity, visibility, isolation,
ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY
SUPPORT OUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES
Lymington Road - Phone: 053 9236055
Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764. The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000.
enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthylibrary
1st October 2021 - Page 93
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WEXFORD STUDENTS WIN TOP PRIZES IN TEXACO CHILDREN’S ART COMPETITION Three Wexford students have won top prizes in this year’s 67th Texaco Children’s Art Competition, the results of which were delayed until now due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They were Ella Carley (15) from Loreto Secondary School, Wexford, for her work entitled ‘Thom Yorke (Fade out)’ and John (8) and Nina Redmond (6), both pupils at St. Kevin's National School, Gorey, for their works entitled ‘The Hairy Lion’ and ‘The Underwater Sea Adventure’. All were winners of Special Merit Awards for artworks that Final Adjudicator, Professor Declan McGonagle, said “demonstrated high levels of skill and imagination”. The Texaco Children’s Art Competition is popularly regarded as the longest-running sponsorship in the history of arts sponsoring in Ireland, with an unbroken history that dates back to the very first competition held in 1955. This year, as has been the case throughout its life, it has been a platform on which young artists from Wexford and counties throughout Ireland have had their talents recognised and their creativity commended.
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From September 14 to October 2, Drogheda’s Highlanes Municipal Art Gallery is hosting an exhibition of the top 126 winning paintings in this year’s Texaco Competition. Admission is free and further information is available at www.highlanes.ie n
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Alan Dobbs (left) with Red Books owner and publisher, Wally O’Neill.
Enniscorthy musician and songwriter launches new book A book of collected lyrics, poems and other bits of writing by ALAN DOBBS has been published by Red Books of Wexford. It was launched at Red Books in Peter's Square, Wexford, on September 11th with Alan doing some readings from the book and signing copies. The hotly anticipated debut collection called Top Garden Afterlife is available now from the Red Books shop and from their online store: https://theirishbookshop.com/products/top-garden-afterlife-
collected-lyrics-and-writing-alan-dobbs and Alan has some copies himself so you can order directly from him. Alan says, “It excites and pleases me no end to announce that my first volume of collected lyrics, poems and other bits of writing has been published by the venerable Red Books and released on Saturday September 11th... Massive gratitude to my fellow Batenik and consigliere Zeff Ryder Wexford Batenik, Wally O’Neill and anyone else associated with Red Books.” n
Check out Alan’s music on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5WF3JNRo TZ0WZCkkRk1ORJ
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with Mar ia Nolan
Book Review: The Lake House at Lenashee by Sheila Forsey This month I am delighted to review the latest work of yet another Wexford author – it must be something in the water here that keeps throwing them up.
The story is about a group of people brought together at an old lake house in the West of Ireland in 1967 who witness something that would change each of their
For me, Sheila Forsey simply gets better and better, over
lives forever and silently haunt them to the end of their
a very short period of time she has honed her craft and is
days.
not just writing wonderful historical fiction, but has found a niche and a genre, almost within a genre, as she explores the hidden secrets of forgotten houses and those who lived in them. And she doesn’t just leave it there either, in her latest work The Lake House at Lenashee, she manages to seamlessly blend historical fiction, with suspense thriller, with scary ghost story, creating a page-turning masterpiece that keeps the reader both intrigued and enthralled from beginning to end.
Moira Fitzpatrick, a successful chef has lived in Paris for over fifty years, without returning to her native Ireland, but in her dreams at night, she is transported back to a most beautiful house on the west coast of Clare, with a glittering lake and a terrible secret. In 2019, when Julia Griffith’s father Desmond is dying, his rapidly deteriorating mind becomes obsessed with knowing what happened to a woman he once knew. A woman called Rosemary. Julia feels that finding this woman might bring some much-needed peace to her father’s tormented state. But as she tries to unravel who Rosemary is or was,
Sheila Forsey
her search leads her to an abandoned lake house in the West of Ireland which has been locked up for over fifty years. As each layer of the past is uncovered, Julia is drawn deeper and deeper into the dark recesses of her own mind tormented by the memory of something that happened at this house over fifty years before. This is a novel that you won’t be able to put down, and Sheila Forsey’s best piece of work to date, her beautiful use of language along with her theatrical bent and descriptive flair make The Lake House at Lenashee a great story and a most compelling read, as Sheila breathes life not just into her characters but into the house they inhabit. I love where Sheila’s writing has taken her, she has a real feel for these old buildings, magically weaving an intriguing tale into their bricks and mortar, and I simply can’t wait to read about the next one. – Maria Nolan
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National tour of Skin Deep by visual artist Mary-Ruth Walsh. Commissioned by Wexford Arts Centre. Runs 18 October – 4 December 2021 in Wexford Arts Centre, Cornmarket, Wexford Town. Gallery Hours: Mon – Fri 10am-5pm, Saturday 12pm – 4pm. Wexford Arts Centre is excited to present Skin Deep, a national touring exhibition by artist Mary Ruth Walsh. Through collage, film and sculpture/installation, Walsh extends her interest in architecture and explores skin as substance and metaphor. n
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SlaNey SlaNey NewS ad SlaNey SlaNey SNapS SNapS AIB Bank’s Bike-A-Thon in aid of The FORD Counselling and Psychotherapy Centre, Wexford, held outside the AIB Bank on North Main Street on 17th September. Left: From Hore’s, Colm Freeney and Declan Hore. Right: Aine Boland. Below left: Michael Dillon, Manager, FORD Centre. Below centre: Mary Rose Kelly had a go on the bike. Below right: Well known Wexford man Larry Browne (Browne Fire Protection) – a good supporter of the FORD centre.
On Your bike!
Above left: Cllr Maura Bell collecting for the FORD Centre on Wexford’s Main Street. Above centre: Soccer star Kevin Doyle and his wife Jenny have a go at the Bike-A-Thon. Above right: Collecter John Quigley on Wexford’s Main Street.
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Vinegar Hill – the last stand of the Wexford Rebels of 1798 – new book is launched Dr Ronan O’Flaherty is an archaeologist and independent researcher, and Chair of The Longest Day Research Project. Jacqui Hynes is a folklorist and teacher, a former manager of the National 1798 Rebellion Centre and a member of The Longest Day Research Project.
VINEGAR HILL The Last Stand of the Wexford Rebels of 1798
At the book launch L-R: Liz Hore (Head of Enterprise, Wexford County Council), Tony Larkiin (Deputy CEO Wexford County Council), Jacqui Hynes (co-editor), Cllr Cathal Byrne (Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District), Ronan O’Flaherty (co-editor), Cllr Aidan Browne, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council) and Cllr Jackser Owens. Pic: Patrick Browne.
21 June 1798 saw 20,000 men, women and children trapped on a hill outside Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, facing a Crown force of some 15,000 troops. It was the dying days of a rebellion that had shaken British rule in Ireland to its core. The army that now surrounded the hill was determined that none should escape. Vinegar Hill – The Last Stand of the Wexford Rebels of 1798 is a 352-page book, edited by Dr Ronan O’Flaherty and Jacqui Hynes, and is the culmination of “The Longest Day Research Project”, supported by Wexford County Council and a steering committee of national and international experts.
The book includes research by a multidisciplinary team of archaeologists, historians, folklorists, architectural historians, and military specialists, and provides fascinating new insights into what happened at Vinegar Hill on that fateful day in June 1798. Using cutting-edge technology and traditional research, the sequence of the battle jumps sharply into focus. Beginning with Vinegar Hill in the international context, the book considers the command and structure of the armies and course of the battle that day, reveals archaeological artefacts and surviving historic buildings from the battle and period, oral histories of that fateful day and the last march of the Wexford rebels into County Meath. It also
evaluates the stories of why General Needham was late to the battle and identifies possible mass graves on Vinegar Hill. Although there can be no public launch at this time, the research team are delighted to see the work undertaken by so many brought to fruition through this publication and are very grateful to Wexford County Council for their support. The full-colour, 352-page book is for sale (price €25) at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre, Millpark Road, Enniscorthy and through local bookshops and online from https://www.fourcourtspress.ie/books/ne w-year-folder/vinegar-hill/ and other book retailers. n
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Medieval Ferns Experience – Wex
The Medieval Ferns Experience is located in Ferns Community Centre. Above: Catherine McPartlin (Medieval Ferns Experience), Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (Chairperson Wexford Co. Council) and Helen Davitt (Medieval Ferns Experience).
The Medieval Ferns Experience in Ferns is Wexford's newest visitor attraction. Although new, it tells an old story – of Ferns and its significance in the medieval period in an informative and entertaining way.
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In Wexford we rightly feature the Viking and Norman story, their arrival and what they left behind. However, in Ferns we can now enjoy the story before their arrival – a time when St. Aidan's monastery dominated the landscape in Ferns – in
the 6th/7th century through to Gaelic kings, their rivalries and alliances in the 12th. The Medieval Ferns Experience focuses on one in particular, Diarmait MacMurrough, King of Leinster, an ambitious king who ruled from Ferns and had his
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xford’s newest visitor attraction sights on the High Kingship. His reputation as a tyrant is widespread but the new Ferns attraction sets the context through a mix of media including audio visual, virtual reality and sensory. The Medieval Ferns Experience is open just a couple of months but already the positive reaction has been most welcome. The visitors so far reflect the modern Ferns – people who have lived in Ferns all their lives, and people who have chosen to make Ferns their home. Great feedback has been received from foreign nationals living in Ferns who were delighted to know about Ferns’ history – one resident from Poland said it was a “fantastic experience, very interactive – we highly recommend it”, another of Russian origin said, “Really happy to see this wonderful idea being realised in Ferns village. It’s an amazing experience for children, very educational and entertaining.”
interesting ‘stuff’ presented in the Medieval Ferns Experience – more than once it was compared to Game of Thrones.” The Experience is located in Ferns Community Centre and is run as a social enterprise, staffed by a mix of community employment scheme people and volunteers. It is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm. As it’s a social enterprise, it depends on an entry fee to meet running costs – adults €6 and
children under 12 free. Because of the need for social distancing, visitors are asked to pre-book by emailing: medievalfernsexperience@fernsvillage.ie Hourly slots are bookable from 10am and on the hour from then – with the last slot at 4pm. People can also follow Ferns Village on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and on the website: www.fernsvillage.ie for updates. n
Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (Chairperson Wexford Co. Council) and Catherine McPartlin (Medieval Ferns Experience), enoying the audio-visuals at the new exhibition.
Catherine MacPartlin, Manager at Medieval Ferns Experience, tells us that, ”For years, we’ve heard from locals, that we should have something in Ferns and this is the realisation of an ambition – it’s the start. The main reaction by our visitors so far, and that includes people from Ferns now working abroad and home on holiday, is that they were not aware of all the
Catherine McPartlin (Medieval Ferns Experience) with Minister Joe O’Brien, Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development, on his recent visit to the exhibition.
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L-R: The Deputy French Ambassador Marianne Barkan-Cow Cllr Pat Barden in a spot of bother at the Norman Festival.
Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society were delighted to be invited to be part of the first ever Norman Festival at Baginbun recently. The Festival scheduled for last year, to commemorate the 850th anniversary of the landing of the Normans at Baginbun, had to be postponed due to Covid, but organisers, Hook Tourism, were determined that it would happen this year, albeit under restrictions. To mark the special occasion of the
Storming Norma landing of the second wave of Normans at Baginbun in 1170, the first invasion occurring at Bannow in 1169, the Deputy French Ambassador Marianne Barkan-Cowdy, explored the shared connections between Ireland and France through the centuries before unveiling the plaque at the monument which commemorates the historic landing.
times, pointing out that the name Baginbun is derived from the two ships that brought the Normans to our shores – Le Bague and Le Bon – the ring and the good – the ring, a symbol of the marriage of our two countries, France now being our nearest European neighbour, and the good, depicting the excellent food products being produced and shared in both.
Ms. Barkan-Cowdy was elaborate in her appraisal of French/Irish connections going forward in post Brexit
The crowd of about two hundred, were treated to historical insights by archaeologist Niall Colfer, son of the well-known
Words and pic
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wdy with Maria Nolan at the Norman Festival at Baginbun.
ans at Baginbun historian Billy Colfer, and historian and author, Prof. Kevin Whelan, explaining that this was an invasion by invitation, they came, they fought, they stayed, and they shaped the future of Wexford and Ireland and their names, Colfer, Sutton, Rossiter, Browne, Roche, Devereux and many more are still with us today as are their wonderful, enduring fortifications dotted all across our Wexford landscape. New Ross Municipal District Chairman Pat Barden reminded us of the signifi-
cance of the Wexford site symbolising the power of the Normans, with the well-known phrase, ‘At the creek of Baginbun Ireland was lost and won.’ A special song composed for the occasion was performed called Alice’s Antics, recalling a Norman woman named Alice reeking revenge on the Irish who had killed her partner, by slashing the heads off over seventy prisoners whose bodies were then thrown off the cliff at Baginbun.
Cllr Michael Whelan is also in a spot of bother at the Norman Festival.
A lovely woman by all accounts! The Festival continued with displays by the superbly accurate Dunbrody Archers and re-enactments by the suitably attired and ably equipped Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society. Well done to Hook Tourism. It is about time that Wexford Tourism began to show ownership of the Normans like Waterford’s claim to the Vikings. – Maria Nolan
cs by Maria Nolan
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National Reuse Month
Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Barbara-Anne Murphy (left) at FCJ, Bunclody, for the launch of National Reuse Month. October is Ireland's National Reuse Month, with the aim to inspire and provide the skills and tools to reuse more in every aspect of our lives. To cut down on waste and greenhouse gas emissions, one can begin to prioritise repair and reuse this October. Why not try to buy second-hand, upcycle something, borrow, swap and refill. This avoids the need to extract raw materials, manufacture and distribute new stuff, and avoids waste – all of which cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions. Why not make a commitment to reuse as many things as possible to save the environment this October? Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, officially launched National Reuse Month. Joining her at the launch was Mr. Brendan Daly, Principal of FCJ Secondary, Bunclody, Ms. Samantha Hughes, Green School Co-ordinator, and their student water ambassadors. Speaking at the launch, Cllr Barbara-Anne said, “Reuse Month is about inspiring people to make use of the items that may otherwise go to waste. Reuse is about valuing our stuff, by using and reusing it for as long and as often as possible. At times we forget to consider where things came from or went to after we use them – never mind the environmental consequences of using up primary resources
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and dumping waste. Reuse is good for the environment and good for your pocket. I encourage all residents of County Wexford to get involved in National Reuse Month.” Also present at the launch, Cliona Connolly, Environmental Awareness Officer, Wexford County Council, added, “Throughout October we invite everyone, whether a school, sports club, community group or business, to join us for Reuse Month. Maybe you want to attend a workshop or take part in a competition. We have initiatives to suit everyone this year, from how to encourage reuse and cut out disposable plastics at your sports club or school to upcycling everything from fashion to furniture. All of our events are now listed on www.wexfordcoco.ie.“ UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS: 7th October 2021: Refill workshop for Secondary Schools (see details of the competition tied in with this: https://waterford.submit.com/) 19th October 2021: Conscious Cup workshop for businesses, Tidy Towns groups and others. 21st October 2021: Furniture Upcycling workshop with Marianne Heaphy of The Revamp Tramp. October: Fast Fashion Presentation and
Teachers Resource available free to all Secondary Schools in County Wexford. 2nd November 2021: Sustainable Living. This is a two-hour workshop that helps people find easy and enjoyable ways to move towards more sustainable living. With Aoife Munn, Environmentalist and Horticulturist, with a focus on sustainability through practical learning. Register now for this event at https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/sustainable-living-2hr-workshop-sponsoredby-wexford-county-council-tickets-177372 715567 Also this Reuse Month: Sports Club Competition – for more information on how to reduce plastics at your sport club, see www.wexfordcoco.ie To find out more about Reuse Month and events happening in your area, visit www.mywaste.ie/reuse-month/ MyWaste is challenging you to unearth the imagination within and create something new out of something old… to breathe new life into an old or unwanted item or material. So if you can find something old and renovate it or turn it into something completely different but still usable then you can enter the Upcycle Challenge at https://www.mywaste.ie/upcycle-challenge21/ For further information please contact Cliona Connolly 053 9196475 or cliona.connolly@wexfordcoco.ie n
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Senator Malcolm Byrne
Senator Byrne welcomes smoky coal ban
Senator Malcolm Byrne has welcomed the announcement in early September by Environment Minister Eamon Ryan that from next year there will be a ban on the sale of smoky coals. Malcolm pointed out that this could save up to 1,500 lives in Ireland annually as a result of better air quality. The Senator has campaigned for a long time on this issue having been shocked by the extent to which the air in Co. Wexford’s four main towns is being polluted and the impact that this is having on people with respiratory illnesses and heart difficulties.
He pointed out, “The levels of air pollution measured in our four main towns is frightening. In many cases, levels of pollution were recorded at over ten times what is regarded as safe by the World Health Organisation. Enniscorthy and New Ross were particularly bad at times, but even Wexford town, which did have a ban on the sale of smoky coals in the town, still saw higher levels than were safe.” “I knew from talking to people with asthma, with COPD, the impact that
He has regularly raised the issue in Leinster House.
“I am happy this is finally happening and that our air quality will improve. There are more sustainable fuel sources available that are better value for money, including smokeless coal, and we need to promote their use,” he added. From 2022, coal, coal-based products, any manufactured solid fuel or peat briquettes sold in the State will be required to have a smoke emission rate of less than 10grams/hour, reducing to 5g/hr by 2025. Sulphur content permitted for all fuels will be reduced from 2 per cent to 1 per cent over time. the poor air quality was having on them. Some told me of their reluctance to go out at night when a dense smoky fog descended on their towns.” In 2015, then Councillor Byrne brought a motion to Wexford County Council to make Wexford a smoky-coal-free zone. Moves for this to happen were resisted by the Department as it wanted to develop a nationwide ban.
Wood sold in single units under two cubic metres in size will be required to have a moisture content of 25 per cent or less moving to 20 per cent within four years. Wet wood sold over these volumes will be required to come with instructions for the purchaser on how to dry this wood. To accommodate those with rights to harvest sod peat, no ban on its burning will be introduced. n
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School Bikes Africa Project Wexford County Council together with Rotary Wexford Branch, Rotary Ireland, The Defence Forces and the Irish Prison Service are appealing for the donation of unwanted bikes for the School Bikes Africa Initiative. The Project has been running for over 6 years nationally led by Rotary Ireland and with the co-operation and assistance of Local Authorities, the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC), the Defence Forces and the Prison Service. Over 5,000 bikes have been collected, repaired (within the prison service) and shipped to Africa to countries such as the Gambia where school students use the bikes to enable them to access education often over distances greater than ten kilometres to their schools. In seeking unwanted bikes Wexford County Council require: Strong, sturdy bikes capable of withstanding rough terrain. Bicycles that would suit primary or secondary school students. Bicycles with mountain-bike-type tyres. Bicycles with a minimum tyre size of 24 inches. The bicycles can be left into any of the Council’s 4 Household Recycling Centres in Gorey, Enniscorthy, New Ross and Holmestown, Barntown, Wexford, during opening hours of 08.1512.00 and 13.00-16.00 Tuesday to Friday, and 08.15-12.00 and 13.00-15.00 on Saturday. The scheme runs from Thursday 16th September through to Friday 17th December, 2021. Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy in launching the Project at the Holmestown Household Recycling Centre said, “This is a marvellous initiative and one that clearly demonstrates how the Council is trying to encourage the people of Wexford to prevent, reduce and reuse waste and it is apt that it will run during National Reuse month in October. Donating, revamping and repairing items are all forms of reuse and it affords people the chance to save money and to become part of an initiative that helps people in prison acquire new skills and young people in other countries a better chance to benefit from education. Wexford County Council is delighted to help facilitate this worthwhile project”. Calodagh McCumiskey, President of the Rotary Club of Wexford, welcomed the project, “It is great to see such a successful and beneficial project coming to Wexford. The project is good for the environment, good for personal development and it gives school students in Africa a better chance to maintain their access to education. I appeal to Wexford householders to check their garages, sheds and attics for repairable bikes that would be suitable to be fixed up and despatched to students in Africa.” Jason Dempsey of Rotary Ireland summed it up in saying, “The School Bikes Africa Initiative is a Win, Win, Win; a Win for climate change given the benefits of repair and reuse as well as
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promoting sustainable transport. A Win for prison inmates providing opportunities for training and rehabilitation, and a Win for school students in Africa in providing a better chance for availing of education”. This initiative is funded by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communication Anti-Dumping Initiative 2021 and is co-ordinated through the Waste Enforcement Regional Lead Authorities (WERLAs). n
Enniscorthy’s ongoing water issues Questions have been raised recently about the town’s capacity to grow further given the frequent water outages experienced by the existing residents of the town. It’s difficult to see how the town can regenerate and grow further, both as regards population and in terms of new industry (e.g. the new Technology Park currently under construction), given that the existing water capacity is already under strain. This issue has been raised by Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Barbara-Anne Murphy among others, and Wexford Co. Council has conceded that it is indeed an issue. We understand that local Oireachtas members are regularly advocating with Irish water to address the situation.
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Big Beach Clean WELL DONE TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS NATIONWIDE WHO HELPED IN THE RECENT CLEAN-UP OF OUR COUNTRY'S BEACHES... This year, a record number of over 400 cleanups were organised by volunteers who removed 42 tonnes of litter across the country. In County Wexford, volunteers organised clean-ups in 19 different locations, removing 1.2 tonnes of marine litter. Moreover, the Wexford Subaqua Club Clean Coasts group at Kilmore Quay removed additional bags of marine litter, as well as larger items such as ropes and lobster pots (see photo). Big Beach Clean: https://cleancoasts.org/our-initiatives/bigbeach-clean/ n
Supporting ‘Make Way Day’
Boost for Wellingtonbridge and Tagoat Twenty-one additional wastewater treatment plants have been selected for upgrade as part of the Small Towns and Villages Growth Programme and forms part of Irish Water’s commitment to supporting growth and development in local towns and villages throughout the country, while protecting the environment and safeguarding water supplies. Two Wexford plants are included: Wellingtonbridge (upgrade of capacity for Wellingtonbridge to provide for growth) and Grahormac, Tagoat (upgrade of the Tagoat wastewater treatment plant to provide additional capacity for growth).
Launch of Make Way Day 2021 L-R: Caroline Horan, Access Officer, Wexford Co. Council; Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Barbara-Anne Murphy and Cathal Kearney, Access Department, Wexford County Council. Make Way Day took place on Friday 24th September, with Wexford County Council once again supporting the event. Campaign organiser, the Disability Feder-
ation of Ireland (DFI), has developed a short online survey that anyone can use to rate the accessibility of their local area. The link to the survey is available at www.makewayday.com n
Senator Malcolm Byrne has welcomed the announcement. He said, “If we are to ensure that our villages and small towns can continue to grow, then we need investment in water and wastewater treatment. This is good news for Wellingtonbridge and Tagoat but there are a lot of other areas in Wexford that also need improvement and I’m continuing to lobby Irish Water and Minister Darragh O’Brien on this question.” n
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Connecting along the Prom The autumnal ambience of Enniscorthy’s Promenade was the perfect setting for the Enniscorthy ‘Connecting Community Event’ on Saturday morning 25th September, as the town’s Sustainable Energy Community group came together with other local groups and organisations to create awareness of ways for individuals and the town to become more energy efficient. Strolling along the Promenade, I came across Thomas McGuire from IEVOA (the Irish Electric Vehicle Owners Association) expounding the virtues of electric cars, and Grainne Kennedy of 3CEA (3 Counties Energy Agency) who had wonderful information on the variety of grants available to those who are interested in conserving energy. Eddie Wilson and Dearbhla Ní Laighin from Toastmasters were actively canvassing for new members, reminding all that the group meet every second Monday evening at 8pm at the IFA Centre. Anyone can go along for free to try it out – a great way to become more proficient in public speaking and handle all those Zoom calls!
along with having a social outlet to visit and converse, gather and compare. Slaney Cycling was there with advice and tips on the very healthy and environmentally friendly mode of transport – cycling, along with St. John’s Ambulance volunteers with AED demonstrations. Chair of Wexford Co. Council BarbaraAnne Murphy, who attended the event, was delighted with the level of interest saying how extremely vital it is for us as a community to come out and reconnect following the terrible isolation and solitude of Covid lockdown, and how beneficial and cost-effective energy saving can be for both individuals and the town. Already in Co. Wexford there are around 20 Sustainable Energy Community
groups working towards great energy efficiency and decarbonisation. Patrick Rochford is setting up such a group in Wexford town and is looking for likeminded people. Contact him at 0863414223 for more information. This is the way forward, this is the future, and according to Enniscorthy Sustainable Energy Community group members Irene Cadogan and Dervla Tierney – we will be hearing lots more about it in the weeks and months ahead, so do watch out for further information here in the Slaney News as we keep you up to date with all that is happening in Enniscorthy. For more see: https://3cea.ie and https://www.facebook.com/ennsdg – Words and pics by Maria Nolan
L-R: Billy Murphy from Enniscorthy Tidy Towns with Michael Devereux of the Enniscorthy Community Allotments project.
Billy Murphy from Enniscorthy Tidy Towns was on hand with Michael Devereux of the Enniscorthy Community Allotments project which, he hopes, will be up and running in the very near future here in town. Michael is excited about the prospect as a vital component of healthy living, giving people the pleasure of growing their own organic produce, Chair of Wexford Co. Council Barbara-Anne Murphy (left) with Irene Cadogan (second from right) and Dervla Tierney (far right) both of Enniscorthy Sustainable Energy Community group, and representatives of the 3 Counties Energy Agency.
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menade
Above left: Maria Nolan with Eddie Wilson of the Enniscorthy Toastmasters group. Above right: Thomas McGuire from IEVOA (the Irish Electric Vehicle Owners Association) with Graham Cadogan (Enniscorthy Sustainable Energy Community group), at a Tesla electric car which costs just €1.50 per 100km to run.
Eddie Wilson of Enniscorthy Toastmasters group with Chair of Wexford Co. Council Barbara-Anne Murphy.
Dervla Tierney of Enniscorthy Sustainable Energy Community group with Michael Bennett, pioneer in the area of energy efficient buildings.
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Bree Vintage Club annual Tractor Run in aid of Enniscorthy HOPE Centre and the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, Sunday, 19th September. Above left: Cathal loves watching the tractors with his mam Dawn and Peter Whelan. Above: Young farmers taking over!
V St
Tr Above left: Jack and Dave O’Connor. Above centre: Alelia Nolan. Above right: Hannah Finn and Laura Phayres.
Above left: Willie Sharkey and Leo Tector at his 1936 Baby Ford. Jim Mooney and Paddy Murphy. Jack Murphy at his granfather’s Leyland 1969 Lorry.
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Above: Donie Power and Willie Whelan take a break on a Morris truck. Above right: Cliona Holohan and James Freeman.
Bree intage Club Tractor Run
Above: Tractor men Paddy Buckley, Paddy Kenny, Michael Brooks and Mickey Murphy. Above right: Danny, Emily and Allie O’Brien.
Above left: Andy Tobin and Michael Foley. Above right: Aaron Walsh, Tom Walsh and John Cullen.
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