Slaney News, Issue 133, June 2021

Slaney News

ServiNg Co. wexford for the laSt 10 yearS

Issue 133 - June 2021

Eco-Kind opens its doors in Enniscorthy Katherine Kavanagh cuts the eco ribbon at the new Eco-Kind shop, Duffry Hill, Enniscorthy, on 25th May 2021. Also in photo are Katherine’s daughter, Aideen Vonno, proprietor of the new shop, and Aideen’s son Niall.

See story page 32

Organic shelled HEMP SEEDS 500g €15, 1kg €25 (while stocks last) contains full spectrum amino acids, proteins, omega -3, -6 and -9, zinc, iron, magnesium, and calcium.

Haven Kavanagh’s Pharmacy

DUFFRY HILL, ENNISCORTHY. T: (053) 9234660.

COURT STREET DENTAL CENTRE ●

● Open for routine treatment Free consults for braces and implants ● Offering treatment for fine lines and wrinkles

Court Street, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 9237404. www.courtstreetdentalcentre.com Open: Mon-Thurs 8.30am–5pm, Fri 7.30am–1.30pm

ISLAND ROAD, ENNISCORTHY 053-9233601, 086-2457664

KAVANAGH’S GARAGE

Auto Maintenance & Repairs – Diagnostics – Pre-NCT and DOE Tests – Clutches, Brakes, etc – Breakdown Assistance

SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad

A Tree – ‘From Us To You’

Carraig Briste & Killegney Early Years (pre-school and after-school) "From Us To You".

A Horse Chestnut Tree was presented to Davidstown national school on 31st May from the students of the Beech and Oak classes in Carraig Briste. Our picture shows them, with staff members, before they headed off to plant the tree in Davidstown.

Contents of this issue of Slaney News...

Having fun in Min Ryan Park, Wexford, on 1st June were: Niamh, Caoimhe and Sinead Lynch.

News Food & Drink Business & Finance Pets Motoring Leisure Sport Arts & Heritage News Environment

page 4 page 40 page 54 page 64 page 66 page 69 page 82 page 84 page 92 page 97

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.

We ask that any people who appear in submitted photos are compliant with the Covid-19 restrictions applicable at the time.

Page 2 - 2nd June 2021

SlaNey adS

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.

This size spot can be yours for just €50+vat.

Tel: 087 1142100. Email: Johnny.Mythen@oireachtas.ie Constituency Office Slaney Place Enniscorthy Co. Wexford Y21 T8K7

Telephone Frank at 087-2403310 for more details.

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TEL: 053-9255219 - RATHNURE - ENNISCORTHY 4th May 2021 - Page 3

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comment Welcome to the June issue of the new-look, online-only Slaney News.

It’s great to see many of those businesses and facilties that have been closed in recent months due to Covid-19 restrictions, now reopening, with more doing so over the coming weeks.

The government has just launched its Economic Recovery Plan for the sustainable rebuilding and renewal of the economy now that the vaccine roll-out is comprehensively underway and the economy is reopening in clear phases. In the words of local TD Paul Kehoe, this will be “a jobs-led recovery” and “will see Wexford’s economy bounce back”. Let’s all hope that proves to be the case.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Cllr Jackser Owens had the privilege of officially opening a new shop in Enniscorthy on 28th May. Scot’s Corner is a new and used furniture shop on the Island Road opposite the filling station / tyre depot. We wish Maggie and her staff the very best of luck in their new venture.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– As always, we listen to feedback from our readers and try to take their advice on board. As a result, we’ve introduced two new ideas this month. The first is a ‘Contents’ summary on page 2 which will make it a little bit easier to navigate our 104 pages! The second is an ‘Environment’ section which, in this issue, runs from pages 97-104.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– We would be delighted as always to receive stories and photos from our readers from all around Co. Wexford. If you have anything you’d like us to share 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

Located just behind the new Enniscorthy Lidl

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.

SLANEY NEWS

Here to Help You. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, My constituency of昀ce is open by appointment only to the public.

GYM REOPENING 8th JUNE Gym Reopening Special Offer: 6 weeks gym membership for only €40: Includes FREE: Individual fitness assessment – Gym induction Personalised fitness programme Full gym details here: http://www.kilcannon.ie/astroactive/astro-active-gym-membership/

Website: www.astroactive.ie Email: astroactivetl@cwcwe.ie Also check our Facebook page

Page 4 - 2nd June 2021

My of昀ce team and I continue to be available to work for you by email, phone and messenger. Unfortunately, my clinics remain closed.

During these dif昀cult times please take care of yourself and elderly/vulnerable family, neighbours and friends.

James Browne TD Minister of State. TD for Wexford.

Lower Church Street, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford.

Tel: 053 923 5046 Email: jamesbrownetd@oir.ie

SlaNey adS

SignaCare SignaCare’s family-owned luxury 62-bed Nursing Home in the heart of Bunclody.

John Dargan (left) and wife Margaret-Anne Walsh (right) – the founders of SignaCare, with Director of Nursing Denise Steed-O’Doherty.

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2nd June 2021 - Page 5

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ENNISCORTHY SNIPPETS ST PATRICK’S SCHOOL: The spectacular new St Patrick’s School at Drumgoold is now open.

Readers can enjoy a virtual walk-around by viewing the video here.

BRINGING LIFE BACK TO SLANEY STREET: €233,000 is to be spent this summer and autumn painting and upgrading Slaney Street’s shopfronts, and on street lighting, planting, etc. €174,000 will come from central government under the Historic Towns Initiative and €59,000 from Wexford Co. Council.

Work will be completed by November this year. It is hoped by many that the street will become a centre for craft and design outlets, and for artistic endeavour. In the meantime a number of moves have taken place on the street. The Copper Chimney Indian/Thai takeaway opened last month and Sami’s barber shop has moved to bigger premises at the bottom of the street.

SEEKING IDA INTERVENTION: The IDA (Industrial Development Authority) 2021-2024 strategy notes that the IDA will work with Wexford County Council to advance planning permission for an advanced technology building in the county. Enniscorthy’s Cllr Aidan Browne is pushing for Enniscorthy as the ideal location for this development.

SHOPFRONT PAINTING SCHEME:

Sami’s Hair Parlour – a colourful addition to the bottom of Slaney Street.

Slaney Street itself will benefit from €233,000 investment this summer.

The scheme confirmation documents can be viewed on the scheme website at www.enniscorthyfds.ie

Enniscorthy Municipal District has introduced a Shopfront Painting Scheme for commercial properties in Enniscorthy, Bunclody and Ferns similar to the successful 2020 Scheme in Enniscorthy which had a significant uptake. The max grant is €200 per premises. In addition, a Shopfront Flowers Grant Scheme is also running with a max grant of €50.

Main construction work can commence when the scheme has been confirmed by the Minister. It is expected that the entire Flood Defence Scheme for Enniscorthy, which will include building a new bridge across the River Slaney, will cost in excess of €45 million.

An application form/s can now be submitted online by logging onto https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/business/business-supports-andgrants/enniscorthy-municipal-district-shopfront-improvement-grants

The formal turning of the sod on the first building took place on 7th May (see page 14). Work on the foundations is ongoing and on 21st June the steelwork is due to commence so that on the longest day of the year the first physical sign of a building above ground will be apparent.

Application forms also available on request from the offices of Enniscorthy Municipal District. Completed Application Forms must be submitted to: Enniscorthy Municipal District, Market Square, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford. Closing date for receipt of completed Application Forms is Wednesday, 30th June, 2021.

TECHNOLOGY PARK:

AIR QUALITY:

Any queries please telephone 053 92 33540.

Email: enniscorthy@wexfordcoco.ie

The April meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District was told that there is tentative evidence of air quality improvement since the banning of smoky fuel sales in the town last year. See readings from Enniscorthy and all over the rest of Ireland on https://airquality.ie

CASUAL TRADING:

ST. SENAN’S SCHOOL EXTENSION GOES FOR TENDER

Expect to see some mobile catering units being licensed soon in the following locations: Urrin Bridge on the Promenade Country Walk; at Vinegar Hill; at the Enniscorthy Sports Hub; and in Bunclody’s Market Square.

FLOOD DEFENCE SCHEME:

It was confirmed in mid-May that the extension to St. Senan’s Primary School is moving to the tender stage. Twelve temporary classrooms will be provided at the school while construction is underway. When complete, this new extension will provide a new two-storey building to include a four-classroom special needs unit, and refurbishment of the existing buildings.

The Supplementary Information requested by the Dept of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) in relation to Enniscorthy Flood Defence Scheme was submitted to the Office of Public Works on April 27th and the OPW sent it on to DPER on Friday April 30th, 2021.

ENNISCORTHY – TOUR DE FRANCE CYCLE CITY

Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy has said, “As was agreed by the Councillors of Enniscorthy Municipal District, we are now seeking meetings with Minister Michael McGrath TD, Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, and Minister Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, and to stress upon them the urgency of getting the building of the Enniscorthy Flood Defence Scheme started.

It is imperative that this project gets underway this year. The completed project will provide vital protection to the homes and businesses adversely affected in Enniscorthy by flooding over many years.”

MAJOR PLANS FOR THE OLD DUBLIN ROAD

Page 6 - 2nd June 2021

Enniscorthy is now an official ‘Tour de France Cycle City’. See full story on page 74.

See full story on page 12.

PLANNING FOR NEW ENNISCORTHY HOSTEL Planning permission is being sought for a 13-bedroom, 3-storey, hostel at Mill Yard Lane, just off The Prom in Enniscorthy.

Keep an eye on the ‘Slaney News’ Facebook page for ongoing updates on these and other Enniscorthy stories. n

SlaNey adS

Cllr.

Cathal Byrne Working for Enniscorthy Town and District

My monthly advice clinics are currently cancelled.

Stoc. 9 Rafter St, Enniscorthy. 053 923 4538 / 086-8167539. www.stoc.ie stocfashion@gmail.com

If I can help you or your family please get in touch.

(085) 146 1164 We are now fully open again.

Looking forward to seeing you all Monday to Saturday 9:30-5:30pm.

cathal.byrne@wexfordmcc.ie @CathalEByrne

Senator Malcolm Byrne These are difficult times for everybody but let’s keep looking out for each other and try staying positive.

We will come through this.

If I can help in any way, please let me know.

malcolm.byrne@oireachtas.ie

Tel: 053 9233593 www.vtnenniscorthy.ie Email: windmillautos@gmail.com

TESTING OF ALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLES Vans & Jeeps

Trucks & Trailers

Buses & Ambulances

Motor caravans

Mixed fleets & other vehicle types

Tractors

TACHOGRAPH & PLATING STATION

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ENNISCORTHY WINDSCREEN CENTRE DIRECT BILLING TO MOST INSURANCE COMPANIES Donanore, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Y21 X6V6 Open Monday – Friday 8.30am – 5.45pm

Call today 053 9233593 2nd June 2021 - Page 7

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New mass vaccination centres for Co. Wexford In addition to the existing mass vaccination centre at the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, three additional mass vaccination centres have been announced for Co. Wexford following Minister James Browne’s call for “more capacity in the system”.

Two of the new centres are based in the McCauley pharmacy premises in Redmond Square, Wexford town and Court Street, Enniscorthy.

Gorey based Senator, Malcolm Byrne, is delighted that the third vaccine centre has been confirmed for Kilanerin Community Centre due to start in mid June and which will have the capacity to offer 1,200 vaccines a day when fully operational. He says, “I’ve been working hard on this over last few weeks so glad this is now happening.” n

Credit Unions are the most trusted Credit unions nationally have been voted as the most highly regarded financial organisations in Ireland, according to the Ireland RepTrak® study 2021.

The Ireland RepTrak® 2021 study is based on a survey of over 6,500 members of the public of the levels of trust, respect, admiration and esteem they have for organisations in Ireland.

Credit unions, as the cornerstone of local communities, were recognised as being friendly, genuine, down to earth, sincere and straightforward, while also having excellent governance and citizenship. This reflects the welcoming nature and the importance of credit unions in their local communities everywhere but particularly our local ones here in Co. Wexford. Now, more

Page 8 - 2nd June 2021

than ever, they continue to be the cornerstone of local communities,

making a huge difference to their members’ lives. n

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EUGENE BRESLIN CAR SALES & REPAIRS

Full diagnostic services, timing belts, clutches, brakes, NCT preparation, all maintenance and repairs, general servicing.

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Ballydawmore, Monagear, Enniscorthy, Y21 V8D3.

Email: info@breslintuning.ie

Tel: 087-968 2756

2nd June 2021 - Page 9

SlaNey NewS

A-D Caller Scheme launched Pic: Wexford County Council Photographers

Wexford County Council Chairman Ger Carthy (left) and Wexford Mayor, Leonard Kelly (second from right), with some of the A-D Caller group, and staff at Wexford County Council.

Wexford County Council Chairman Ger Carthy launched the A-D (Able-Disabled) Caller scheme at County Hall last month.

So what is the A-D Caller initiative?

When making a call to Wexford County Council or any other participating organisation, the caller identifies him/herself

as an “A-D Caller”. By doing this, they are asking the person taking the call to recognise that the caller may have a particular need or vulnerability that requires some extra kindness, patience, empathy, understanding or guidance in dealing with the call. The A-D Caller

group has been doing great work over the last few weeks promoting this new initiative.

For more information on this simple idea to assist people with a disability when making phone calls see: https://www.facebook.com/ADcaller/

Crew Sports on board with A-D Caller initiative Stephen Leacy of Crew Sports on Duffry Hill was one of the first businesses in Enniscorthy to get on board with the A-D Caller initiative. His shop displays the A-D window sticker. All businesses are encouraged to participate. Just check out the ‘Able-Disabled Caller’ page on Facebook and message it requesting an A-D window sticker.

And inform your staff how to recognise and deal with an A-D caller.

Crew Sports is delighted to be back fully open after the easing of retail restrictions. The shop is now an official supplier for Marc hurling helmets and O’Meara footballs with great club deals available.

And new leisure lines are coming into stock also. Pop in any time for a chat with Stephen. n

Page 10 - 2nd June 2021

Stephen Leacy outside his Crew Sports shop, Duffry Hill, Enniscorthy.

SlaNey adS

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Tues to Fri 9am–6pm. Sat 9am–5pm. Sun 11am–3pm.

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Bring your jars and other containers and fill up!

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Telephone: 086 2541196 Find us on Facebook: ‘Slaneyside Carpet & Furniture’. Email: carpetmaster123@gmail.com 2nd June 2021 - Page 11

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Major plans for Enniscorthy’s Old Dublin Road Dub lin R oad Old

R7 22

Scarawalsh Roundabout

L6066

PHASE 1: Phase 1 of the Plan will involve two new pedestrian crossings with landscaping at the Gala shop/Campus service station and at the Teagasc centre. Also, a new footpath in front of the Enniscorthy Municipal Office and Machinery Yard to run up to the Kilcannon corner, and a new ‘welcome’ sign totem at Blackstoops with accompanying landscaping. Wexford County Council is committing a budget of €150,000 for Phase 1.

PHASE 2:

Black stoops Roun dabout

The Old Dublin Road industrial/ commercial area of Enniscorthy is set to benefit from a major new project which will rejuvenate the entire area and create the environment necessary to attract even more jobs to an area that already has around 2,000 people employed there.

The planned project was outlined to, and welcomed by, members of Enniscorthy Municipal District at their monthly meeting on 17th May. The plan covers the area of zoned land extending along the Old Dublin Road from Blackstoops to Scarawalsh Roundabout. In general terms it will involve infrastructural improvements to footpaths, public lighting, road surfaces, etc. And new infrastructure in the form of pedestrian crossings, bus-stops and cycleways. Consistency in boundary treatment and signage will also be part of the plan.

The plan breaks down the area into three zones – Zone A is Blackstoops to Kilcannon Garden Centre which has well established commercial and industrial use at present; Zone B which is Kilcannon to Kavanagh Meats and is considered ‘underdeveloped’ at present; and Zone C which runs from Kavanagh Meats to Scarawalsh and is primarily residential and agricultural.

Page 12 - 2nd June 2021

Phase 2 consists of: Upgrading the existing footpath between Blackstoops and Kilcannon. The formation of an Active Travel Route around Zone A (from Blackstoops to Kilcannon on the Old Dublin Road, turning left onto L6066 and returning to Blackstoops on the R722). A welcome sign will be installed at the L6066 junction. Soft boundary treatment (trees and low hedging) will be implemented along the Old Dublin Road. And a ‘rest area’ with benches will be developed opposite Kilcannon Garden Centre.

PHASE 3: This phase will consist of a new footpath between Kilcannon and Scarawalsh. The Active Travel Zone to be extended to cover the entire area (Zone A, B and C).

Road resurfacing from Blackstoops to Scarawalsh. Welcome sign at Scarawalsh.

Soft boundary treatment along the Old Dublin Road. This Phase will help in

promoting new busnesses to set up in Zone C. THE NEXT STEPS: The next steps involve more consultation with business owners in the area, and with the general public (June 2021). This will be followed by the detailed design and tender phase for Phase 1 (July 2021).

Then Part 8 planning process (Part 8 refers to development carried out by a Local Authority) for Phase 2 (August 2021). Then an application to the National Transport Authority for Active Travel funding.

It is hoped to commence Phase 1 works in October 2021.

The Plan will undoubedly improve the appearance and feel of the area giving it a distinctive ‘branding’ and uniform look, and will help attract inward investment there. In addition, it will also help the area become attractive for walkers and cyclists with proper footpaths and cycling infrastructure, particularly with the planned installation of extensive public lighting.

The provision of several bus-stops along the Old Dublin Road (suggested by Cllrs Aidan Browne and Barbara-Anne Murphy) would allow a Local Link bus service to operate, and help workers get to their employment there. A bus-stop on the R722 outside what will be the new Primary Care Centre (currently being constructed) was recommended by Cllr Cathal Byrne and will be considered by the project team. n

Toffee and Thyme Cafe – the newest business to open on the Old Dublin Road.

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A ‘hair-raising’ fundraiser Young Issy Grannell recently had her hair cut for LauraLynn (Ireland’s Children’s Hospice) and raised over €1,700 by doing so. Our picture shows Issy just after coming out of the hair salon in Enniscorthy clutching her strands of hair while brother Tom is at the ready to catch any bits that might fall!

Issy, and children like her, are doing a double good deed – helping create a wig for a child who has lost their own hair through cancer treatment or other conditions, while also raising funds for children with life-limiting conditions in LauraLynn.

LauraLynn's mission is to provide a community of care that delivers evidence-based, personalised services to children with palliative care needs, complex care needs and complex disabilities, while also providing family support services and a home to its residents where quality-of-life is paramount. https://www.lauralynn.ie n

The 3 Amigos raise over €12,000 for Wexford Women’s Refuge The Three Amigos: Alan Corcoran (South East Radio), Padraig Murphy (Haven Pharmacy) and Fr. Sean Devereux (Parish Priest of Cushinstown) who finished their 31 days of running for Wexford Women’s Refuge on Wexford’s Quays on 31st May. A big crowd turned up for the occasion. The trio ran 5k to 10k each day for the month of May raising over €12,000.

2nd June 2021 - Page 13

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Work commences on first building at Enniscorthy Technology Park

At the sod-turning event on 7th May 2021 for the first building in the new Enniscorthy Technology Park were L-R: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District), Tom Enright (CEO of Wexford Co. Council), Minister James Browne TD, Michael Bennett (contractor and developer), Maree Lyng (President of Enniscorthy and District Chamber).

At a low key, due to Covid restrictions, event on 7th May 2021, the sod was turned by Minister James Browne for the first building at the new Enniscorthy Technology Park beside the old St. Senan's Hospital. At the sod-turning event, Minister Browne was joined by Tom Enright (CEO of Wexford Co. Council), Cllr BarbaraAnne Murphy (Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District), Maree

Page 14 - 2nd June 2021

Lyng (then President of Enniscorthy & District Chamber) and Michael Bennett (contractor and developer).

After some delays, not helped by Covid, it is now ‘all systems go’ with the 30-acre site. Work is progressing on the foundation for the first 4-storey building and on 21st June the steelwork will commence so the first physical sign of a building above ground will be apparent. The 50,000 sq ft office building will accom-

modate over 400 people. One occupant could be a European UN Centre of Excellence for Near Zero Energy Buildings. Wexford County Council, local politicians and business interests are working hard to achieve that outcome.

The new building currently under construction is the first of a number of office buildings which will be built there potentially creating several thousand jobs in the short to medium term. n

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WEXFORD’S ROAD NETWORK – TIME TO GET ON IT!

Recently I wrote an article here on the roads in the county and I have been asked to put a bit more meat on the bones of the subject. I gave a general account previously, so now I will try to explain why I painted such a dark picture on the future of the nonnational roads in County Wexford.

TOWN TALK

First, one must refer to the national road works carried out in the last few years in both Enniscorthy and New Ross – the bypass projects, and it would be nice to see a connection of both projects coming forward for discussion. The Oylegate to Rosslare Harbour and indeed the Rosslare Europort Access Road are both in various stages of design. All projects most welcome and important but also well overdue in the scheme of national roads projects.

What I will try to lay out in more detail is the history and the future of non-national roads in the county. This is made up of 4 road categories: regional, primary, secondary and tertiary, which makes for much poorer reading.

Historically, Ireland and indeed Wexford have a different style and make-up of road network than our European neighbours. This is due to a mixture of small land-holdings, dispersed populations, attachments to local parishes and displacements dating back to the Famine and our Colonial History. All this contributes to our inherited dependence on our extensive rural network. This network connects our over 100 towns, villages, clustered settlements, not to

WITH KEITH DOYLE mention our one-off housing along the way. Ireland has 21km of road per 1,000 inhabitants which is twice the EU average, five times that of Italy and seven times that of Germany. The importance of the network for agriculture, tourism and industry can not be overstated so where does the problem lie?

The Irish government has detailed documents outlining and comparing data on roads for each county. In 1995 the first

study comparing all counties showed Wexford in the poorest condition grouping. The next studies in 2005 and in 2011, although showing some improvements, still showed Co. Wexford in the poorest grouping in all four road categories. In fact Wexford shows 35% of roads in need of reconstruction compared to the national average of 15%. The average time nationally just to even surface dress a road is once in seven years, but in Wexford it’s just once every 29 years. The government knows this, this is their own data, but still does not set down actual needs or condition as criteria when allocating funding. This needs to change or Wexford will continue to fall behind and the gap will widen. Wexford County Council realises the position they are in and spends 30% of its total expenditure on non-national roads, from their own budget, to make some inroads. This is not repeated in any other county.

I was asked to follow my last article with some facts so I did, but I left the most startling fact for last. Wexford has 3,522km of non-national roads to look after. 1,215km needs reconstructing or strengthening and 500km needs extensive repair. This will need government funding of €194 million. The government cut €66 million from Wexford roads from 2008 to 2021. For years, many Wexford TDs deflected any road complaints to Councillors and hid behind the myth that the roads issue is not their job. Funding the Council for roads and not cutting funding is totally a TD’s job.

So get on it! n

Co. Wexford’s non-national roads: 1,215km needs reconstructing or strengthening and 500km needs extensive repair.

2nd June 2021 - Page 15

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FCJ Bunclody’s new gym FCJ Bunclody is delighted to have

gym so the school is asking for local help

commenced construction of its new

by appealing to students, parents, past

school gym. The existing gym was

pupils, friends of FCJ and the wider

built in 1987 when there was an enrol-

community to support the project by

ment of approximately 500 students.

donating whatever you can. The target is

With the current number of almost

€20,000 so every euro counts!

1,000, the school is unable to accommodate them all for PE and extra curricular activities. So the new gym is vital for the school but will also be a valuable amenity for the wider community.

The building of this Gym has been made possible by the generosity of the FCJ Order who are funding all construction costs. Unfortunately, there will not be any government funding towards the construction of, or equipment for, the

Due to Covid regulations and keeping in mind that the students need to be kept safe, the school is restricted in the activities it can run. So a Go Fund Me page: https://gofund.me/f3b2ecab has been set up.

The FCJ would be most grateful for all donations received and ask everyone to

completed early in the coming

spread the word and share the Go Fund

academic year.

Me page as widely as possible.

It is hoped to have the new gym

Go Fund Me page: https://gofund.me/f3b2ecab n

Pic: Tourism Bunclody (Visit Bunclody).

Check out ‘Tourism Bunclody’ on Facebook for lots more daily photos.

And don’t forget, the Bunclody Tourism Office is open again.

Page 16 - 2nd June 2021

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Bunclody Vocational College In a very positive development for Bunclody Vocational College, the Department of Education has approved a multi-million, fourstorey, new build on the grounds of the Bunclody school. When completed the school will be four times the size of the present school and will cater for twice the student population.

Pic: Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan, Chairperson of the Board of Management of Bunclody Vocational College, with local TD Paul Kehoe. n

Keeping our children safe online As work progresses on the Online Safety Bill, Wexford TD Johnny Mythen has warned of the importance of protecting children online.

“But equally, we want to do all we can to protect our children from harmful content too.

“Work is ongoing on the legislation side of things to hold online platforms to account for protecting children. It’s important we raise these issues with the wider public, and make them aware, so that families know the dangers and can address them privately also.

Deputy Mythen said, “As a part of the Oireachtas Committee on Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht, we have been hearing from key stakeholders about online safety, and key issues of child protection for consideration.

“I would encourage every parent to have an open conversation with their child about the online world, even if they think their child does not have social media accounts because there is a possibility that they are online without their parents’ knowing.

“One statistic that is very shocking is that approximately 65% of children aged 8–12 are signed up to social media and instant messaging apps and that about 70% of them are gaming online.

“Very worryingly, almost a third (30%) of the children on social media said that they had friends and followers that they didn’t know.

“This brings with it all sorts of pitfalls.

We know there is an increase in cyberbullying, access to inappropriate material, advertising of junk food and many other sorts of harmful and sinister content which unsupervised children can freely access online.

“Working parents, who may be away from their child during the day, might be

Johnny Mythen TD

unaware of how much time their child is spending online during these times.

“There is also the problem of peer pressure – if 65% of a child’s classmates are online, it is completely understandable that the child will want to join in.

“These statistics are worrying for parents and guardians. In fact, we know that the internet can be a great asset and there are many benefits to it.

“Even if they aren’t online now, no doubt the day will come when they venture into the online space and it is so important that they are safeguarded and protected and ready when that day comes.

“Webwise.ie is a great resource for parents to help them navigate this topic.

It has vast amounts of useful information and I would encourage parents to look it up for help and advice.” n

2nd June 2021 - Page 17

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Tel: (053) 923 7499 Email: info@eetc.ie www.eetc.ie Page 18 - 2nd June 2021

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GOREY

Before the COVID-19 pandemic nearly 6,000 people left Co. Wexford every day to commute to work – more than 50% of those people work in professional services or in the ITC Sector.

Now 90% of these people will need a secure office that they can work from.

The Hatch Lab in Gorey is a modern and spacious building designed specifically to accommodate technology companies and innovative start-ups. It comprises 51 desks in an open plan office and four office units which can accommodate up to 30 employees. The Hatch Lab is specifically established to provide the opportunity for people to work in Gorey for companies in Dublin. John O’Connor, CEO of The Model County Enterprise Group, stated that, “We offer the opportunity for people to work closer to home as an alternative to the daily commute in and out of the county. There are huge economic benefits associated with this, not to mention the time saved on commuting.”

In addition to the affordable and flexible office rental accommodation, the Hatch Lab also provides incubation space for IT startups. Sophia Forte of The Model County Enterprise Group stated, “The Hatch Lab offers invaluable mentoring and advice for start-ups, helping individuals navigate through the complex grant systems and red tape that is associated with starting a new business. Established businesses also benefit from tenancy with us as they act as a source of knowledge and experience for businesses ensuring that they grow and develop into a sustainable business in the future.”

The Hatch Lab has a strong sense of community, whereby the residents work for different companies but they can still have the same camaraderie of a normal office environment. Tenants benefit from peer to peer networking and stand to make invaluable business connections through one another.

Due to the restrictions caused by the COVID pandemic, The Hatch Lab had to make a number of changes to suit remote workers in the future. Permanent Glass panels are installed between desks. The Hatch Lab purchased special equipment to address the spread of viruses. A number of Ultra Violet light rays have been installed and an all-important disinfecting Ozone Generator, capable of emitting 600mg p/h for eliminating pollutants and hazardous particles in the building at night to clear the air when nobody is around.

The boardroom has a voice sensor camera attached to a smart screen which makes video conference over Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Submit and other similar platforms easier for individuals in Gorey to work with their HQ in Dublin or elsewhere.

The Hatch Lab, M11 Business Campus, Gorey. Tel: 053 9480689. www.thehatchlab.ie info@thehatchlab.ie or info@eetc.ie 2nd June 2021 - Page 19

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Young Gorey students take p Students from Gorey Central School took part in the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition Primary Science Fair which was held in classrooms across the country on the 18th and 19th May. For over 20 years, the Primary Science Fair has been a core component of the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE), allowing younger students to develop their interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) in a non-competitive environment and encouraging them to become future participants in the exhibition.

Due to school closures earlier this year, the Primary Science Fair was postponed during the virtual BTYSTE exhibition in January.

Projects from 23 schools across Ireland were showcased during the

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two-day event in May, exploring exciting new ideas and fascinating

topics in the areas of STEM. Images: Fennell Photography. n

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part in national science fair

Above and below: 6th class students Eve (12) and Caelan (12) Funge and their cousin Darragh Funge (10) from Bunscoil Loreto in Gorey pictured as part of the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition Primary Science Fair held in May. Images: Fennell Photography. n

2nd June 2021 - Page 21

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If you go down to the woods today, are you in for a big (unpleasant) surprise?

The people behind the campaign to protect Courtown Woods are keen to make sure there will be no unpleasant surprise in store for those who like to access those woods for leisure purposes.

The likelihood of a private purchaser buying the Courtown Adventure & Leisure Centre and the surrounding woods and potentially trying to limit public access to the woods at some stage in the future has caused great concern locally.

Local Councillor Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin is one of those leading the campaign of opposition to the proposed sale. He says: “These mature, broadleaf, seaside woodlands are truly unique and have been a lifesaver for so many people over recent times. They're known by visitors the length and breadth of Ireland.

“Are we to be the generation that allows these public woods, which were given to the people over a century ago, to fall into the hands of private speculators? Future generations would not forgive us!

“We must ask ourselves – how did it come to this?

“There hasn't been full transparency nor local consultation, and all concerned groups – the community, the council and the liquidator must now sit down around a table as a matter of utmost urgency."

Cllr Ó Súilleabháin has been liaising between Courtown Community Council and Wexford County Council management on this issue.

The following is a recent statement from Courtown Community Council: “Courtown Woods is in the final stages of being sold to a private developer.

Although, like ourselves, the community welcomes new business to the area and are looking forward to the Adventure and Leisure Centre re-opening, many people have communicated concern about the transparency of sale of the Woods and the lack of engagement with the community.

It is prudent that every detail of the agreement is clarified now to Protect Courtown Woods before it is too late.

“We are asking... that Wexford Co. Council confirm full protection of Courtown Woods

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‘Save Courtown Woods’. Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin, Linda Sinnott (Courtown Community Council), Lorraine O’Dwyer (Gallivanting Tours), Cllr Diarmuid Devereux,

from further development and ensure that ownership of the Woods remains within the community.”

Wexford County Council says that the public walks and woodlands are protected

by Section 38 of the planning act, which restricts and protects the use of the property and makes the land available for public use, and these restrictions transfer from one owner to the next. The liquidator, Neil Hughes of Baker Tilly, Enniscorthy, says the proposed purchaser is committed to maintaining public access throughout the woods.

But Courtown Community Council still has concerns including:  “Courtown Woods has been an invaluable amenity for locals and visitors for hundreds of years. It is also a crucial biodiversity hotspot as one of the few remaining forested areas in this locality. We are concerned about the details of the Section 38 agreement in regard to the level of protection it gives to the woods. We are also concerned that under private ownership, the Section 38 measures could be overturned in time, leaving the woods vulnerable to further development.  “That Courtown Woods could potentially be sold on to a third party where the current agreement may no longer be valid and the needs of the community overlooked.  “Courtown has already suffered devastation from the loss of our beach and Blue Flag status. We are concerned

that further development in Courtown Woods could leave the area with no natural amenities for the public to utilise, which would have far-reaching socio-economic impacts on the area.”

A local petition has gathered 8,000 names supporting the idea of Wexford County Council purchasing the Woods so as to ensure public ownership.

Tom Enright, CEO of Wexford County Council, has defended the proposed sale and the role of the Council and of the liquidator. He believes the public’s access to the Woods would be fully protected in the proposed sale. However, Councillors such as Andrew Bolger believe the Woods would be more secure under outright public ownership. Mr Enright says the Council doesn’t have the resources to purchase, upgrade and maintain the Centre. But the local Councillors are not being deterred. At their monthly meeting in May, GoreyKilmuckridge Municipal District Council voted in favour (6 votes to 4) on the following motion “We, the members of Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District wish to call on Wexford County Council to take into public ownership, Forest Park Leisure Complex and the adjoining 40 acres of protected Woodland for the use and enjoyment of our local community and visitors to the area for the future.”

Wexford County Council is not obliged to act on the outcome of the above motion, and as of now does not appear to be for turning, so in all likelihood the sale to the private purchaser will proceed and the leisure centre could open to the public later this summer. n

SlaNey NewS LOSS OF PERSONAL FREEDOMS The further extension by the government of the emergency powers to November 9th should be a worry to all of us. These powers were handed to the Cabinet by a frightened Oireachtas back in March 2020 when the covid threat appeared on the horizon. At the time this situation may have been understandable, but the current situation is totally different. The world is now well aware of covid and more importantly has a handle on it through the vaccination programmes being carried out in most countries. The handing of powers which are literally draconian to a small group of people, the Cabinet, who are advised by another small group of unelected people, NPHET, is totally undemocratic in the extreme.

The argument that the government needs these powers is totally unsustainable. The big danger is that the small group of people who have been, without any scrutiny whatsoever, running this country, restricting our movements and closing businesses on the nod from NPHET have got way too keen to avail of these powers. The fact that a minister can sign a piece of paper restricting what you and I can do without having to consult anyone is repugnant. The further danger is that come November 9th the next excuse to extend these powers will be that the health service has to be protected for the winter period.

Therefore, it will be April 2022 before we have any possibility of getting back to normal democracy, if they don’t extend it again.

If this was happening in any other country, Ireland and the EU would be out condemning the removal of democracy and calling for sanctions against the particular government. The time has come for us to shout STOP.

SHOW EXAMPLE Many of our public bodies have been meeting virtually for the past 15 months (while still drawing travel expenses to attend meetings which they can attend from their kitchen table). I note that some Councillors are now calling for a return to the council

View from the Centre

A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond

auditorium is about 20 but normally never more than 10 or 12. It is a disgraceful waste of money. The time has come to get back to proper work in the Dáil Chamber and give us at least some value for the money we pay you.

WEAK TAOISEACH Many of us have felt for some time that the current Taoiseach is a weak number.

As I write this column the story has emerged of the forcing down of the Ryanair flight over Belarus. The Taoiseach responds by saying that this is unacceptable. UNACCEPTABLE! It is an act of air piracy putting an aircraft full of passengers and crew at terrible risk and breaking every international law in the book. The reaction of the Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan is unknown at the time of writing. Maybe he’s still sleeping.

HOME TOURISM chamber for their meetings. This is to be welcomed. There is no need whatsoever at this point for Councillors to be meeting from home while the staffs of essential retail outlets, post offices, teachers etc. have all worked every day through this entire pandemic. Non-essential retail and other businesses are reopening now which now means that thousands more people are thankfully getting back to work. When I’m on the subject, the time has come for the Oireachtas to abandon the nonsense of wasting our hard-earned money, €25,000 a day, down in the Convention Centre.

This place has a seating capacity of 8,000.

The maximum number of TDs ever in the

National Convention Centre: costing the taxpayer €25,000 per day.

I prefer the term Home Tourism to Staycation but I suppose those who depend on it will not care much what it’s called. Hopefully, over the next few months County Wexford will get its fair share of Irish tourists who will keep the wheels of the economy turning until we get back to normal. One aspect of the present situation for the home tourism providers is the genuine worry that because of some imaginary health scare another lockdown will be suddenly announced by the government using the emergency powers referred to above. It takes a lot to reopen a business. It’s not just a question of reopening the door. Staff have to be taken off emergency payments and of course they will rightly demand some kind of guarantee that they won’t be turfed back on to a reduced government payment if some so-called variant of covid shows its face 2,000 kilometres away. Suppliers and providers of services will be looking for guarantees before they commit themselves etc. All this has to be taken into account because if it goes wrong this time many businesses will never survive. This reopening has to be the final one for the sake of the entire country. The messing about has to end here. n

2nd June 2021 - Page 25

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WEXFORD STUDENTS WIN TOP AWARD

National winners in the Student Enterprise Programme Awards 2021. L-R: Brendan Ennis (Wexford Enterprise Centre), Liz Hore (Head of Enterprise Wexford Co. Council), Cllr Ger Carthy (Chairman of Wexford Co. Council), Lauren Williams (Bridgetown College, award winner), Colum Kavanagh (Co-ordinator), Sinead Fortune (teacher) and Breege Cosgrave (Senior Enterprise Development Officer). Pic: Ger Hore.

Congratulations to all the 850+ students who took part in this year’s Student Enterprise Programme in County Wexford. All these mini-companies started with an idea and managed to bring it to market this year, and along the way learned and practised the skills to make it happen. Here’s to the entrepreneurs and problem-solvers of the future. Well done all! Wexford Local Enterprise Office says a huge and sincere ‘thank you’ to all of the 34 teachers involved across Co. Wexford in the programme this year, many of whom are not mentioned below but who put in a fantastic effort to help students across the county turn their enterprise ideas into a reality.

Students from Wexford have taken four awards at the National Final of this year’s Student Enterprise Programme. The Finals of the Local Enterprise Office initiative were broadcast virtually last month from Croke Park with An Tánaiste Leo Varadkar and Ambassador Derval O’Rourke speaking with host RTE’s Rick O’Shea, as students and teachers watched on from across the country.

National winners in the Student Enterprise Programme Awards 2021. L-R: Brendan Ennis (Wexford Enterprise Centre), Aaron Price (teacher), Cllr Ger Carthy (Chairman of Wexford County Council), Issy and Grace Walsh (St Mary's New Ross), Colum Kavanagh (Co-ordinator) and Breege Cosgrave (Senior Enterprise Development Officer). Pic: Ger Hore.

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DS AT NATIONAL ENTERPRISE FINALS

Left: County award winners in the Student Enterprise Programme 2021. Wexford CBS. L-R: John Hegarty (Principal), Ann Barry (teacher), Rory Goff and Nick Lambert (Winners), Breege Cosgrave (Local Enterprise Office) and John Nolan (Deputy Principal). Pic: Ger Hore.

Right: County award winners in the Student Enterprise Programme 2021. Wexford CBS. L-R: John Hegarty (Principal), Ann Barry (teacher), Caoimhe O'Brien (teacher), William Miller (winner), Breege Cosgrave (Local Enterprise Office), Alex Gregg (winner), Tony Bennett (teacher) and John Nolan (Deputy Principal). Pic: Ger Hore.

Supported by Local Enterprise Office Wexford, the Wexford students who won national awards were Lauren Williams from Bridgetown College and Grace and Issy Walsh from St Mary’s Secondary School in New Ross.

Lauren won a ‘Special Merit Award’ in the intellectual property category and also the ‘Best Commercial Potential’ award in the senior category. Her business ‘Irish Sea Mist’ produces a wonderful range of seawater-based face mists made from natural ingredients. Lauren was supported by teacher Sinéad Fortune on her business journey.

Grace and Issy Walsh are twin sisters whose business ‘2 Peas in a Pod’ produced a fun card-matching game for players of all ages that also promotes tourism. Their teacher was Aaron Price. Peas in a Pod came in 2nd place in the overall junior category of the national competition. They also won an ‘Extra Special Merit Award for Excellence in Marketing’.

Evan Walsh proudly represented his County at the All Ireland finals in the intermediate category from CBS Wexford with his business Evans Handmade Gifts and was supported by his teacher Ann Barry.

There were 72 student enterprises competing in this year’s National Final in what is Ireland’s largest entrepreneurship programme for second level students. The initiative, funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland and delivered by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities Cont’d overleaf

Top pic: County award winners in the Student Enterprise Programme 2021. Wexford CBS. L-R: John Hegarty (Principal), Ger Forde (teacher), Ann Barry (teacher), Evan Dwyer (winner), Breege Cosgrave (Senior Enterprise Development Officer, Local Enterprise Office) and John Nolan (Deputy Principal).

Middle pic: County award winners in the Student Enterprise Programme 2021. Claradh Keane (winner) Presentation Wexford with teacher Aiden Hackett and Breege Cosgrave (Senior Enterprise Development Officer, Local Enterprise Office).

Bottom pic: County award winners in the Student Enterprise Programme 2021. Our Lady of Lourdes, New Ross, Mollie Fitzharris and Freya Murphy.

All pics: Ger Hore.

2nd June 2021 - Page 27

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Above left: Bunclody Vocational College. L-R: Jay Murphy (Principal), Pierce Deane from Kildavin (winner), Aoife Martin (teacher) and Angie Malone (Local Enterprise Office). Above right: Creagh College, Gorey. Winning students Lachina O’Reilly Finlay and Mia Finn.

Pics: Brownes Photography.

throughout the country, saw 29,000 students from almost 500 secondary schools across the country take part.

to the Wexford Student Enterprise Co-ordinator Colum Kavanagh and Breege Cosgrave in the LEO team.”

An Tánaiste, Leo Varadkar, who took part in the ceremony, congratulated the students: “Congratulations to not only the finalists being recognised here today, but to everyone who took part in the competition. To be a finalist in the Student Enterprise Programme is a fantastic achievement in normal times and its incredible given everything that’s happened this past year. Everyone who took part should be very proud of all that they have achieved. Special mention to their teachers, parents and all those who helped them along the way. The ability to create an idea, turn it into a business and to run that business is a skill that will be invaluable later in life. Ireland has a proud history of entrepreneurship and no doubt those here today will all go on to achieve great things. Government will back you every step of the way.”

Tom Enright, Chief Executive Wexford County Council was a speaker at the Wexford finals and was delighted at the success of the Wexford students on the national stage. He stated that: “Year-on-year the Student Enterprise Programme continues to produce the very best of ingenuity and entrepreneurship amongst our secondary school students. It’s no surprise to see the challenges thrown up by the pandemic featuring in many of the businesses and the ongoing willingness for students to create businesses that not only sell services or products, but that help address ongoing issues in society. We see every year that the National Finals are not an end point for our student entrepreneurs, but a stepping stone on the next stage of their entrepreneurial journey. From our class of 20/21 we will see some business leaders and global entrepreneurs of the future emerge.”

Praising the winning students and all those representing Wexford at the National Finals, Liz Hore, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office Wexford said: “This is a proud day for student enterprise in Wexford. It was a tremendous achievement to win 4 awards at the national event and bodes well for the future of entrepreneurship in the county. We would like to congratulate the students, their families and their teachers at Bridgetown College and St Mary’s Secondary School in New Ross on winning these national awards in Croke Park. We would also like to pay tribute to the other finalist from Wexford who was Evan Dwyer from Evan’s Handmade Gifts in Wexford CBS and his family and teacher, Ann Barry. All the national finalists were impressive ambassadors for student enterprise in the county. I would also like to extend my thanks

The National Finalists, who competed across three categories, Junior, Intermediate and Senior, saw judging take place virtually via electronic submissions. Each student enterprise was challenged with creating, setting up and running their own business, which must show sales of their service or product.

The judging panel included business owners and representatives from enterprise agencies and associated bodies.

Since the Student Enterprise Programme began in 2003, over 250,000 students have taken part, learning key skills on how to create a business idea, start a business and grow a business.

Full details of all this year’s 72 national finalists are available on the Student Enterprise Programme website at www.StudentEnterprise.ie n

Student Enterprise Awards. Above left: FCJ, Bunclody. L-R: Caoimhe Jordan from Myshall (winner), Paul Fitzgerald (teacher) and Angie Malone (Local Enterprise Office). Above right: Gorey Community School. L-R: Aaron Leonard from Gorey (winner), Lisa Bangle (teacher), Breege Cosgrave (Senior Enterprise Development Officer, Local Enterprise Office) and Michael Finn (Principal). Pics: Brownes Photography.

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SlaNey NewS Below are the winners in the award categories for this year’s Student Enterprise Programme (SEP) in Co. Wexford, with the teachers’ names in brackets.

Student Enterprise Awards. Meanscoil Gharman, Enniscorthy.

L-R: Adam Caomhanch, Éanna Swords, Dylan Hore, Shannon de Faoite (teacher), Óran Darcy, Angie Malone (Local Enterprise Office) and Finn O'Connor. Pic: Brownes Photography.

Student Enterprise Awards. St Mary’s CBS, Enniscorthy.

L-R: Angie Malone (Local Enterprise Office), Martina Barry (teacher), John Ryan (Principal) and Jack Byrne (winner).

Pic: Brownes Photography.

Left: Student Enterprise Awards. St. Mary’s School, New Ross.

L-R: Grace and Izzy Walsh (winners) with teacher Aaron Price.

Below: St. Mary’s School, New Ross.

L-R: Winners Laura Banville, Chloe Monaghan and Lisa Murphy with teacher Eithne Ford.

Pics: Brownes Photography.

SENIOR CATEGORY WINNER: Irish Sea Mist - Lauren Williams (Bridgetown College: Ms Sinéad Fortune) RUNNER-UP GoEco - Aaron Leonard (Gorey Community School: Ms Lisa Nangle) JOINT THIRD PLACE PlayFrame - Bronagh Kenny, Megan O'Sullivan, Sarah Walsh (Coláiste Bríde, Enniscorthy: Ms Margo Whelan) & CK Masks - Claragh Keane (Presentation Wexford: Mr Aidan Hackett).

INTERMEDIATE CATEGORY WINNER: Evan’s Handmade Gifts - Evan Dwyer (Wexford CBS: Ms Ann Barry).

JUNIOR CATEGORY WINNER: 2 Peas in a Pod – Grace Walsh, Issy Walsh (St Mary’s Secondary School, New Ross: Mr Aaron Price) RUNNER-UP Wexford Keyrings Ltd – Nick Lambert (Wexford CBS: Ms Ann Barry).

SENIOR BEST INTERVIEW: Álainn Cosmetics – Niamh Doyle (Coláiste Abbáin, Adamstown: Ms Nessa Murphy).

SENIOR BEST REPORT: Timber Crafts – Alex Gregg (Wexford CBS: Ms Ann Barry).

JUNIOR/INTERMEDIATE BEST INTERVIEW: CBS Socks & Club Socks (Wexford CBS: Ms Ann Barry).

JUNIOR/INTERMEDIATE BEST POSTER: 2 Peas in a Pod – Grace Walsh, Issy Walsh (St Mary’s Secondary School, New Ross: Mr Aaron Price).

ENVIRONMENT AWARDS WINNERS (x2): BOS Trays – Jack Byrne (St. Mary’s CBS, Enniscorthy: Ms Martina Barry).

Wasteknot – William Miller (Wexford CBS: Mr Tony Bennett).

SOCIAL IMPACT AWARD WINNERS (x2): Crafty Cones - Lachina O'Reilly Finlay, Mia Finn (Creagh College: Mr Daniel Condren).

GoEco – Aaron Leonard (Gorey Community School: Ms Lisa Nangle).

LCVP CATEGORY WINNER: Giddy Up Décor - Laura Banville, Chloe Monaghan, Lisa Murphy (St Mary’s Secondary School, New Ross: Ms Eithne Forde).

MOST CREATIVE BUSINESS WINNER: Funki Frames - Caoimhe Jordan (FCJ Bunclody: Mr Paul Fitzgerald).

RUNNER-UP Spices2Go - Ruby Murphy, Aislinn Gabbett, Orlaith Butler (Ramsgrange Community School: Mr John Stafford).

MERIT AWARD WINNERS (x6): A Glass Act – Pierce Deane (Bunclody Vocational College: Ms Aoife Martin).

Burn Bright - Michaela Milling, Isabelle Kisov, Shona Proctor Laird, Therese Lawless (Coláiste an Átha, Kilmuckridge).

Lumber Designs - Finn O'Connor, Oran D'Arcy, Dylan Hore, Adam Kavanagh, Eanna Swords (Méanscoil Gharman: Ms Shannon De Faoite).

Fit To Be Dyed - Isobel Kavanagh, Nicole Conroy, Danielle Nolan (Coláiste Bríde, Enniscorthy: Ms Margo Whelan).

CBS Christmas Crafts - Joey Salisbury (CBS New Ross: Mr Stephen Banville).

Keyring & Bling - Mollie Fitzharris, Freya Murphy (Our Lady of Lourdes Secondary School, New Ross: Ms Daphne Kennington).

2nd June 2021 - Page 29

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Planning sought for new Wexford Women’s Refuge

WEXFORD Floating restaurant update

An artist’s impression of the proposed new Wexford Women’s Refuge in Maudlintown.

Planning permission is being sought

by Wexford County Council to construct a new Wexford Women's Refuge building at Maudlintown, Wexford Town. The project will cost in the region of €5 million to complete, with €4.5m coming from central government.

and garden boundaries, storage and service areas.

The 12-unit residential building with associated social, communal, amenity and support spaces, will be a single 3storey detached block with defined road

The new centre will be welcomed by all but particularly those women and children who are fleeing from abusive relationships. n

If the planning application is successful, it is envisaged that contractors will be on site before the end of this year, and the construction work is expected to take around 18 months.

Welcome relief on the Quays

Regarding the provision of free toilet facilities in the vicinity of Wexford quayfront, Mayor Leonard Kelly has helped secure a fully accessible mobile toilet unit which is sited within the quayfront private car-park beside Shaws close to the pedestrian crossing at Bank of Ireland.

There is direct access to the unit from the public footpath so patrons do not have to

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At the Wexford Borough meeting of 19th April last, businessman Richard Mulcahy pitched the idea of a floating lightship restaurant on the quayfront beside Wexford bridge, in partnership with Harry Crosbie, well known developer of the Point Depot, Vicar Street, and the Bord Gais Energy Theatre in Dublin.

The councillors have asked for more information and designs on the €2m to €2.5m project before making a decision.

The promoters, who are not looking for any public funding, wish to be operational by summer 2022, attracting, they believe, 1,000 visitors a day to the quay. n

access the car park itself to use the toilet.

The existing CCTV cameras on the site should help dissuade anti-social behaviour.

Signage on the quayfront giving the distances/ location of all public toilets to inform the public is also being installed.

The existing toilet units at Redmond Road (near Dunnes Stores) and at Harpers Lane are all available for use. n

A drinking water source has been installed on Wexford Quay – something Mayor Kelly and Cllr Tom Forde have been campaigning for.

SlaNey NewS

D TOWN SNIPPETS

Bullring/ Cornmarket revamp A major revamp of the historic centre of Wexford town is planned under preliminary proposals from Wexford County Council, taking in the area from Abbey Street to Cornmarket, the Bullring and North Main Street as far as the junction with Rowe Street.

The historic centre of Wexford town

Wexford Volunteer Centre opens

Last month, Mayor Leonard Kelly officially opened the Wexford Volunteer Centre (of which he is a founding board member and deputy Chairperson).

Pictured with Mayor Kelly is the Centre Manager, Jane Byrne.

Included in the multi-million-euro plan is the glass roofing of the historic Bullring market (at a likely cost of between €300,000 and €400,000), the removal of the roundabout at Cornmarket, the installation of automated bollards on North Main Steet to control access, new outdoor spaces, paving, seating, street lighting, street furniture, public art, restored historic water fountain, tree planting, etc all with the aim of adding life to the town centre, helping businesses in the area by e.g. expanding outdoors, adding new usable space to the public realm where people can meet and socialise, and generally putting pedestrians as the focus rather than traffic, and all while maintaining the character and heritage of this historic area.

Funding will be sought from the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF).

The proposals have been welcomed by the Borough Councillors with Mayor Leonard Kelly saying he is “happy to see this highlighted and supported. The recent decision to make permanent the one-way traffic in this area is allowing this planning to take place. I believe that meaningful public consultation (including local businesses) will be key to the success of these exciting plans, which will happen on a phased basis depending on funding allocation.”

Redmond Park Upgrade The €150,000 upgraded playground for Redmond Park is currently at the tender stage. Work will most likely commence late summer with new, modern playground equipment replacing the old play equipment which has fallen into disrepair. In addition, Wexford County Council has applied for Sports Capital funding to install new adult exercise equipment in the park. n

Local consultation and consensus is being sought now and detailed designs will then be drawn up and presented to Council members most likely by this autumn. n

A major extension and upgrade at Wexford Arts Centre is in progress.

See page 90 for full story.

8th 2ndMarch June 2021 - Page 31

SlaNey NewS

Eco-Kind – a new refill shop for Enniscorthy Would you like to avail of zero-waste and plastic-free shopping? Well now you can in Enniscorthy’s newest store – ‘Eco-Kind’ at Duffry Hill, which opened on 25th May carrying over 200 bulk, zero-waste foods, liquids, cleaning and personal hygiene products. So bring your jars and other containers and fill up! The shop is open Tuesday to Friday 9am–6pm, Saturday 9am–5pm, and Sunday 11am–3pm. And, don’t forget, it also serves the finest, ecofriendly takeaway coffee!

The easiest way to reduce waste at home is to eliminate the amount of excess packaging coming in. By bringing your own containers to a refill store, such as Eco-Kind, you can economically stock up on everyday products – everything from porridge oats to washing-up liquid, so avoiding the use of unrecyclable plastics – a gain for your pocket and for the environment – a winwin situation!

Ireland is currently ranked as the worst plastic polluter in Europe. Each year, we produce 61kg per person – which is the equivalent of more than 2,000 water bottles – for each and every person in Ireland. We are undoubtedly producing too much waste for a country of our size.

Plastics and their byproducts are littering our country, our roads, our seas, our rivers, and even our bodies! As a country we need to remedy this, and Refill shops are clearly a major part of the solution.

The new Enniscorthy shop is owned and run by Aideen Vonno, no stranger to being in business in Enniscorthy with her long-established and highly-regarded hair salon on Duffry Hill. Aideen will run the two businesses which are situated next door to each other. She is excited at the prospect and looking forward to the challenge of “making it easier for the people of Enniscorthy and beyond to find plastic-free alternatives when shopping”.

Check out the website www.eco-kind.ie and shop the range of ecofriendly products with new products being added all the time. Browse and pay online and collect your items in store whenever you’re in town. Eco-Kind also offers a local delivery service.

Eco-Kind, 1 Duffry Hill, Enniscorthy, Y21 A2H3, Tel: 053 924 9908, www.eco-kind.ie Follow on Facebook and Instagram

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Above: Cheers! At the opening of Eco-Kind, Duffry Hill, Enniscorthy, on 25th May 2021 were Niall Vonno and proprietor Aideen Vonno.

Below left: At the opening of Eco-Kind, Aideen Vonno proprietor with customer Maria Roche.

Below right: The Eco-Kind coffee machine in the expert hands of Niall Vonno.

Bottom: At the opening of Eco-Kind, Aideen Vonno and customer Yvonne Kavanagh.

SlaNey NewS

Welcome Back!

Smiles and thumbs-up from staff at the Riverbank House Hotel, Ferrybank, Wexford, who are delighted to be back open again today, 2nd June, 2021.

Seeking ‘dining equality’ There are mixed views on the pace of the reopening of the hospitality sector. Many hotels, B&Bs etc are glad to be opening their doors again today, 2nd June, albeit with some restrictions still in place which, all going well, will be phased out over a relatively short period of time.

One group, however, is angry and frustrated that indoor dining is not being permitted until 5th July, and considers the delay to be “unjust, unscientific and discriminatory”, saying there is “no medical or public health reason to keep restaurants, cafes and gastropubs restricted if hotels and guesthouses are open.”

Adrian Cummins, Chief Executive of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, said last week that, “This decision is baffling, and without proper reasoning on medical or scientific grounds from Government, we have no choice but to take this as discrimination of standalone restaurants, cafes and gastropubs. The Government this week confirmed the decision to restrict businesses other than

hotels from indoor dining for the vital first few weeks of summer, is a ‘practical’ and not a scientific one. We have followed all of the health guidelines and regulations since March of last year, however the decision today to permit indoor dining in a range of settings, including hotels, B&Bs and indeed cinemas weeks before standalone restaurants, cafes and gastropubs, can only be seen as an arbitrary, unjust and

discriminative one. This decision restricts a section of the hospitality industry’s ability to trade viably over the summer as only 20% of the sector can engage in outdoor dining. It also prevents employees from returning to work and jeopardises the re-employment of 110,00 workers.

“Restaurants, hotels, cafes and gastropubs have all followed and implemented the exact same safety protocols for diners since June of last year, we signed up to the same Safety Charter. If the medical advisers and government have decided it is now safe for indoor dining in a hotel restaurant then standalone restaurants, cafes and gastropubs should be permitted to reopen at the same time too – what we are asking for is Indoor Dining Equality!”

In the absence of ‘dining equality’, the Restaurants Association of Ireland believes it has “no choice but to progress our legal challenge at the earliest opportunity”. n Left: Adrian Cummins CEO Restaurants Association of Ireland

2nd June 2021 - Page 33

SlaNey NewS Planning permission has just been granted for 68 dwellings on Bellefield Road.

A whole lot of housing on the way The potential brought by the new M11 motorway, bringing greater connectivity between Enniscorthy and Dublin, will see huge housing development happen in Enniscorthy over the coming years with a resulting significant growth in the town’s population.

We look here at some of the schemes currently underway, or in the pipeline.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The Old Forge Road is a brand new development to the rear of the new Centra shop on the Milehouse Road.

These NZEB, technologically advanced, state-of-the-art homes feature highspeed broadband, Google Smart home package options, first-time-buyers grant, voltaic panels, air to water heating, zoned heating, etc. And they come with a 10-year Homebond warranty.

There is planning permission for 272 units in total of mixed residence type, and community facilities comprising retail, commercial and childcare facilities as well as a road network on the 10.3 hectares site.

Interested buyers can contact Bridge Auctioneers, Castlebridge. Tel: 0874668664. https://www.liveinwexford.ie where you can do a virtual tour of the homes. https://www.facebook.com/bridgeauctioneers

Road out from Enniscorthy. It will be a residential development most likely consisting of 410 units of mixed residence type and community facilities comprising a medical centre, pharmacy, childcare facilities and offices as well as an internal road network. So far the developer has secured permission for 210 houses and if the latest application is approved that will rise to 248, with further applications to come in the future.

Contact Sherry FitzGerald O'Leary Kinsella, Auctioneers, on (053) 923 7322.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– A valuable site just off the Milehouse Road is on the market. Described as a “superb development site” it is situated on the side road which runs by the entrance to Enniscorthy Vocational College, and near The Paddock housing development. The lands are being offered for sale for €950,000 by Kehoe & Associates, auctioneers (tel: 053 9144393), with the benefit of full planning permission for 73 residential units.

This incorporates 50 houses, 16 duplex units and 7 apartments. Planning Permission was granted under Planning Reg. No. 20072874 and this planning was subsequently extended for a further 5 years from November 2017.

c01), 31 3-bedroom dwellings (unit type d01), 7 4-bedroom dwellings (unit type e01), 1 apartment block (type f01) consisting of 1 1-bedroom dwelling and 5 2-bedroom dwellings over three storeys, and creche childcare facility building of 255 sq.m. gross floor area (34 child places), and new road access.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Planning permission has just been granted to a local businessman for new housing on the Bellefield Road, consisting of 68 dwellings on a site beside ’The Orchard’ housing estate, and between the Maxol service station and Lidl/Aldi. (i) 38 detached/semi-detached dwelling houses. Total floor area associated with dwelling house development of c. 4,791 sq.m. And 30 apartments. Total area of apartments and ancillary spaces of about 2,300 sq.m.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– At the old St Senan’s Hospital, planning permission was granted in October 2019 for a multi-million-euro upmarket residential development of 71 units as well as a swimming pool, spa, gym, restaurant and offices. This development is still expected to proceed.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

At St. John's, Enniscorthy, planning permission was granted in March 2021 for:

In Clonhaston, work has started on a large new housing development called Greenhill, on a 15.8 hectares site just past Alcast Motor Factors on the Oulart

Construction of 97 dwellings consisting of 38 2-bedroom dwellings (unit type a01), 7 2-bedroom dwellings (unit type b01), 8 3-bedroom dwellings (unit type

That’s about 1,000 houses in total, but in addition to all the above, we expect to see more housing developments coming on stream in the near future in e.g.

Carley’s Bridge, Clonhaston, and The Moyne areas. n

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SlaNey NewS

VTOS Adult Education Opportunity VTOS Enniscorthy:

VTOS Gorey:

2nd June 2021 - Page 35

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Wexford student excels

LEFT: Ashling McCoy, a past pupil of Loreto Secondary School, Wexford, currently studying at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT), has been awarded the prestigious Health Research Board (HRB) undergraduate Student Research Summer Scholarship.

The third-year student is studying Bachelor of Science (Hons) degree in Applied Health Care in the Department of Nursing and Health Care. Ashling is from Duncormick, Wexford, and is the daughter of Seamus and Alice McCoy. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BELOW: At the opening of Eco-Kind, Duffry Hill, Enniscorthy, on 25th May were Edel Monaghan and Margaret Cahill.

Enniscorthy to offer national hairdressing apprenticeship A National Hairdressing Apprenticeship is being offered in Enniscorthy. This is the first nationally recognised hairdressing qualification in Ireland.

It is being offered in six locations in Ireland including Enniscorthy Vocational College of Further Education. It is a nationally recognised hairdressing qualification, with a combination of on-the-job and course training.

The National Hairdressing Apprenticeship is a three-year programme leading to a nationally recognised QQI Level 6 Qualification in Hairdressing. Apprentices will graduate after completion of the course as fully qualified hairdressers.

Course participants will get 80% practical experience in salons and 20% collegebased education.

Anyone interested in becoming an apprentice hairdresser must first secure employment with a salon, which will then start the apprentice registration process with SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority.

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Salons that wish to register should visit https://hairdressingapprenticeship.ie

suitably qualified hairdressers to sustain and grow their business.

There’s a skills shortage in the industry and many salons are struggling to find

The Enniscorthy course director is Mary Ivers, maryivers@wwetb.ie n

SlaNey NewS

Give us a break!

The proposed Sinn Féin Hospitality and Recreation Voucher Scheme would give workers and families a break. The proposal would see each adult receive a voucher worth €200, while every child would get a voucher worth €100.

That would mean €600 for a family of two adults and two kids.

Local Sinn Féin TD Johnny Mythen says: “Stimulating the hospitality and recreation sector would boost the local economy and give workers and families,

particular those who have lost or had reduced incomes over the last year, a well-deserved break this summer. And”, he continued, “Wexford, the Model County of Ireland, would certainly benefit from these vouchers.” n

Endoscopy Unit upgrade sought for Ely Hospital

Catherine Doran supporting the Wexford Homeless Housing Action Group Draw the prizes for which include an original signed boxing glove belonging to Mike Tyson.

For full details see the ‘Wexford Homeless Housing Action Group’ Facebook page.

A planning permission application has been submitted for the upgrade of the Endoscopy Unit at Ely Hospital, Wexford Town.

When works are completed, the Endoscopy Unit will have two procedure rooms, with associated rooms for preparation. The new suite will also have dedicated offices, changing rooms, and canteen facilities. n

2nd June 2021 - Page 37

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Eugene receives Papal Knighthood At a ceremony held at St. Senan’s Parish Church, Enniscorthy, on Friday 28th May 2021, the honour of Knight of the Order of St Gregory was conferred by Bishop Denis Brennan on Mr. Eugene Doyle, Finance Officer for the Diocese of Ferns. Covid restrictions meant that the ceremony could only be attended by members of Mr Doyle’s close family.

Born on 23rd August 1958, Mr. Doyle is married to Louise and they are parents of four children – Brian, Michael, Katie and Aideen. They reside at Ennismore, Clonhaston, Enniscorthy, where he is an active member of St. Senan’s Parish, Enniscorthy.

Speaking at the ceremony – Bishop Brennan spoke of a ‘lifetime of involvement’ in church and community life – a life marked by ‘a generous contribution of time and talent to local, diocesan and national ecclesiastical life.’

A man of marked spirituality – whose life is characterised by charity and public religious practice – Mr. Doyle is also an accountant by profession and he enjoys the respect of both the members of his own profession, and that of the public in general.

A long-serving member of the finance committee at his own parish (St. Senan’s), Mr. Doyle has been a good friend of the Church over the years and offered valuable and sound advice to parishes, over a period of thirty years.

Mr. Doyle was a key member of the Cathedral Restoration Fund from 1991 to 1996 when £1.3million was raised to renovate and restore the Cathedral at Enniscorthy.

Since becoming Diocesan Finance Officer in 2004, he has helped to shape and oversee diocesan financial policy in a time of acute challenge, and as responses were being shaped to a new, evolving human, pastoral, spiritual and economic reality.

The focus of the last twenty years in the diocese has been genuine engagement and honesty with major issues that have confronted the diocese. As Diocesan Finance Officer, Mr. Doyle played an invaluable part in restoring trust and in

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Mr Eugene Doyle, and Bishop Denis Brennan who invested Mr Doyle with his Knighthood.

helping chart a sure course through turbulent waters.

use and enjoy all the privileges which go with this high dignity.”

“In conferring the honour on one of our parishioners,” said Fr. Paddy Banville the administrator of the parish of St. Senan’s, “I am conscious that it will be warmly received at all levels here in Ferns diocese and will – in some part – recognise the selfless and very often unnoticed heroic effort – that marks daily life here in our parishes, and within the Diocese of Ferns.”

Investing Mr. Doyle with the Knighthood, Bishop Brennan read from the script from the Holy See, sent by the Vatican Secretariat of State:

In accepting the award, Mr. Doyle paid warm tribute to his wife and family for the support and source of blessing that they have been to him down the years. He remembered his own mother in particular and her contribution to the life of the local church and community. Mr. Doyle spoke of the team support that assisted him over the years and explained that the honour was one he accepted on behalf of the efforts and good work of so many good people, with whom he had the privilege of serving.

“Francis 1, Supreme Pontiff, gladly acceding to a request made to Us from which we have gathered that you are most deserving for what you have done for the Holy Catholic Church and its affairs, and in order that We might give a clear sign of Our pleasure and appreciation, We choose, make and declare you, Eugene Doyle, of the diocese of Ferns, a Knight of the Order of St. Gregory the Great. We bestow on you the right to

The Pontifical Order of St. Gregory the Great was founded in 1831 by Pope Gregory XVI. It is conferred as a reward for services to the Holy See and the Church on gentlemen and ladies who “by reason of their nobility, the renown of their deeds, or the degree of their munificence are deemed worthy to be honored by a public expression of esteem on the part of the Holy See.” n

SlaNey food & driNk

Toffee and Thyme’s second coming The much loved Toffee and Thyme cafe on Rafter St, Enniscorthy, closed last year much to the disappointment of its legion of customers. Well, the good news is that it has opened again but in a new location – this time on the Old Dublin Road in the former premises occupied by The Baked Potato, next door to the NCT Centre.

Serving hot food, home baking, cakes, treats, salads, etc and of course the finest coffee in town, it is open for takeaway from 7.30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday.

done, for all occasions – birthdays, parties, Communions/ Confirmations etc.

Owner, Pauline Maguire, is delighted to be back doing what she does best – catering to the people of Enniscorthy and, in the new location, catering for the businesses of the town also as there are approx 2,000 people working in the Old Dublin Road industrial area.

Pauline is also delighted to have such great staff working in the new premises.

Many of them have worked with her previously in the food trade over the years.

Pauline tells us she is looking forward to seeing many of her old customers as well as lots of new ones in the new Toffee and Thyme on the Old Dublin Road, with lots of free parking available on site for all.

Pauline and her staff are looking forward to commencing their outdoor service on 7th June and then full indoor dining from 5th July.

To keep up to date with Toffee and Thyme, keep an eye on their Facebook page here. n

Once indoor dining is permitted again, the fabulous upstairs room with its impressive semi-circular, panoramic window, will be open with an extensive menu, comfortably catering for up to 40 people all in a socially distanced manner.

And with a number of larger tables on site, it can accommodate large groups also.

In addition, Toffee and Thyme will be doing home catering, like it has always

At the opening of the new Toffee and Thyme cafe on the Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy, on 17th May were staff members Shane Dixon, Meadhbh Foley and Hollie Whitney.

2nd June 2021 - Page 39

SlaNey food & driNk

What Ireland ate in Lockdown!

A study by digital ordering platform Flipdish shows the takeaway foods of choice for Irish consumers during the period 20 Dec 2020 to 28th April 2021 which largely corresponds with the third lockdown. Perhaps unsurprisingly, given the winter period involved, the comfort cuisine of choice was the chipper, taking 26% of all orders. The single most popular item was chips, with 19% of consumers adding them to their order.

By mining the data from orders received from Irish restaurants and takeaways who use Flipdish technology to host their own digital ordering websites and apps, researchers discovered that the second most popular type of cuisine ordered was a tie between Chinese/Thai and Pizza with each amounting to 11% of orders over the lockdown period. Margherita pizza was the most popular pizza ordered with 61,368 of them added to Irish consumer orders. Egg fried rice was the most ordered dish when people ordered from Chinese/Thai restaurants with 22,369 portions ordered over lockdown.

TOP 12 CUISINES ORDERED ONLINE IN IRELAND - DECEMBER 20TH 2020 APRIL 28TH 2021 1. Chipper - 26% 2. Chinese/ Thai - 11% 3. Pizza - 11% 4. Restaurant/Bar/Grill - 8% 5. Burgers - 4% 6. Indian - 3% 7. Sushi - 2% 8. Lunch/Deli - 2% 9. Butcher - 1%

Irish consumers were most likely to order online from their local chipper during lockdown.

10. Greek - 1% 11. Grocery - 1% 12. Bread - 1% Consumers in Ireland were also big fans of burgers over lockdown with 15% of all single menu items ordered being burgers.

The most popular type of burger was a cheeseburger with 61,357 orders of this type of burger recorded over lockdown.

This is followed by a chicken fillet burger with 37,775 orders of such burgers placed

by Irish consumers. The drink most likely to be ordered in Ireland with a takeaway meal was a can of Coca Cola, added to 49% of all orders.

TOP 12 SINGLE ITEMS ORDERED ONLINE IN IRELAND - DECEMBER 20TH 2020 - APRIL 28TH 2021 1. Chips - 19%

2. Sauce - 15% 3. Burger - 15% 4. Pizza - 6% 5. Sausage - 6% 6. Coca Cola - 5% 7. Kabab - 4% 8. Curry - 4% 9. Fish - 3% 10. Milkshake - 3% 11. Snack Box - 2% 12. Onion rings - 2% Flipdish revealed that when consumers ordered starters with their meal, they were most likely to order sausages (45%), onion rings (13% ), wings (10%), goujons (5%), or nuggets (5%).

Doner kebabs were the most popular type of kabab having been ordered 37,664 times since the start of the third lockdown.

Speaking on the release of the survey results, Conor McCarthy, CEO and CoFounder of Flipdish, stated, ‘This survey demonstrates the great number of people using their favorite restaurant’s own website to order their preferred food and the benefits it has for restaurant owners during this unprecedented time. In total, over the third lockdown period, there have been just shy of 1.4 million orders placed in lockdown 3 using flipdish technology.’ Flipdish helps restaurants, bars, cafes, and hotels get online with their own branded website and mobile app within hours. n

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SlaNey food & driNk Trisha Lewis

Trisha’s Tips and Tricks for a successful BBQ! Trisha Lewis, chef, author, social media sensation, and Aldi Ambassador shares some tips for a successful BBQ. ★ Always have a lid, as this will trap in the smoky flavour from the hot coals. It locks in the flavour and it keeps the temperature constant, which is ideal for cooking. ★ Add some wood chips to your coal pieces; this will give an extra hit of flavour. Hickory works so well with bacon while beech works really well with chicken. ★ Don’t have the flames roaring, you will want the BBQ flavour but you do not want a burnt flavour! Be sure to control your cooking and leave the big flames die down before you add your food on top! The coals should be grey and hot - this will be the most even heat! ★ Split your coals. I would have more to the left so this is like an oven and you can have different temperature settings. So, on the left more coals means that it will be hotter and you can use for the cooking and on the right have fewer coals so it is cooler and you can use it to keep the cooked food hot. ★ Use proper tools - tongs, fish slice, towel to prevent dropping of food or burning of your hands! ★ Marinade your food as this will counterbalance the smoky flavour and give your meat that extra bit of oomph. The marinade will also caramelise and give you a beautiful sweet taste! ★ When cooking vegetables I would use courgettes, peppers and red onion and I would slice them nice and thin and evenly and pop them on the BBQ - afterwards you can mix them in a bowl with some extra virgin olive oil and some garlic and it is so simply beautiful! ★ Pop your breads on top and they will heat up and toast quickly so you can serve these with some hummus or balsamic vinegar while the guests wait for their burgers!

Trisha’s Tips on what to pop onto the BBQ:

★ Keep control of your cooking and make sure you are turning your food often to avoid burning.

Halloumi cheese is wonderful as it holds its shape!

★ Pop some herbs into the coal like rosemary or thyme and when they burn, they will release flavour into your food.

Onions, sweetcorn, courgettes, peppers, aubergines & garlic cloves are so tasty and when they are done, add them into a bowl with some olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic and serve!

★ Cook your vegetables last. ★ Prep is key! Have your sides ready to rock the day before, you could make some coleslaw, potato salad, caprese salad and have all your burger stuff sliced and ready to go! Fail to prepare, prepare to fail!

Chicken, beef, burgers, ribs, lamb and steaks all work so well!

Salmon and prawns!

And Trisha reminds us that Aldi’s selection of BBQ food is amazing and most of the work is already done for you! n

2nd June 2021 - Page 41

SlaNey food & driNk

FOOD ON

Straight from the horse’s trough!

Best of luck to Nicky Murphy with his new coffee hub open 8am to 5pm daily in the Mr Price car-park on the east side of Enniscorthy.

Nicky says, “We’d like to say a special thank you to everyone who has helped us over the past few months. We really do appreciate it.

And we hope to see you all for a coffee, tea or for a treat when you’re on the trot!” n

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Róisín and Weronika are looking forward to serving you at The Horse’s Trough.

SlaNey food & driNk

N THE GO

Above left: A fine day on Wexford Quays – a great place to have family time for Maria, Holly and Conor Reynolds.

Above centre: Enjoying a fine day on Wexford Quays, Aoife Nolan, Aoife Foley and Soirshe O’Connor-Roche.

Above right: Enjoying a takeaway coffee at the opening last month of Toffee and Thyme’s new premises on the Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy, were Dan and Noleen O’Flaherty.

Far left: A fine day on Wexford Quays for lunch, Elemlea Martin and Lilly May Carty enjoying their food on the Quays.

Left: A threesome of ice-cream eaters, Dylan, Kyle and Dylan Snr Foley, on Wexford Quays.

Left: At the Village at Wheelocks, Enniscorthy, on 17th May were Niabh Aspell and Jimmy Naughton.

Below: Enjoying the strawberries at Wheelocks last month was Aileen O’Donohue with Cyril Wheelock.

Below left: Cody Byrne and Jodie Clarke all set to serve takeaway food and drink at The Pantry, which is newly opened on Rafter Street, Enniscorthy.

2nd June 2021 - Page 43

SlaNey food & driNk

The Village at Wheelocks, Finchogue, Enniscorthy.

To keep up to date with opening hours, menus, etc: Check out Wheelock’s Facebook page here Or phone: 053 92 01900.

Btwenty7 opens a second premises

Btwenty7 – the Enniscorthy-based coffee shop, opened a second outlet last month, this one is on Ryland Road, Bunclody.

Best of luck to Conor and Paula, and all the team there.

8th March 2021 Page 44 - 2nd June 2021

Via Veneto, Enniscorthy’s famous Italian restaurant, is delighted to be the first Italian restaurant in Ireland to be awarded the 100% Italian Taste Gold Standard Certification. The restaurant went through rigorous inspection, throughout the current pandemic, in order to obtain this award and is thrilled to have received it.

Proprietor, Paolo Fresilli, says: “We are proud to state that all of our products are of Italian origin and are sourced from Italian suppliers. We look forward to welcoming you back into our restaurant to experience our gold standard cuisine. In the interim why not avail of our weekly takeaway set menu offers utilising the finest of Italian ingredients.”

Via Veneto in Enniscorthy is open for takeaway with an extensive menu and a Special Offer of two starters, two main courses, two desserts and a bottle of house wine for €55. Tel: 053 9236929.

Check out the full menu here. n

Any individual or group interested in the idea of allotments for Enniscorthy can email their interest to: enniscorthyallotments@gmail.com And visit ‘Enniscorthy Community Allotments’ on Facebook and Instagram

SlaNey food & driNk

Outdoor dining to resume on 7th June The return of outdoor dining and drinking in restaurants and pubs is scheduled for 7th June. Hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses can begin to accept guests from 2nd June, with residents permitted to dine indoors.

For restaurants and so-called wet pubs, the guidelines state that from 7th June outdoor service is permitted for a maximum of 6 people aged 13 or over per table. Accompanying children aged 12 or younger are permitted but the total combined capacity at a table cannot exceed 15 in total.

The guidelines say that both food and drink premises must be empty of all patrons by 11.30pm. Also, no live music or performances are permitted.

As regards social distancing and time limits, a one-metre distance is required between tables for outdoor service and there is no time-limit if this is in place.

The guidelines state that residents staying in “paying tourism accommodation” can dine indoors but that this is subject to a number of conditions. The same restrictions about the numbers per table apply, with the guidelines also outlining that “multiple tables cannot be booked indoors” and that “no parties/ social gatherings are permitted indoors”. In terms of time limits and social distancing, a 105-minute time limit will be in place if there is social distancing of one-metre but this time-limit can be removed if there is two metres between tables.

The return of indoor dining in standalone restaurants, pubs, cafes, etc is scheduled for 5th July. n

Greyhound Track – catering opportunity The private bar and restaurant at Enniscorthy Greyhound Stadium are available to rent with ample outdoor catering space and car parking facilities at the venue. For expression of interest or further details please email: secretaryenniscorthy.track@gmail.com or contact the track. n

The staff at O’Brien’s, Court Street, Enniscorthy, have provided a welcome takeaway service during the various lockdowns. Pic: Shop Enniscorthy.

Joe Marsella

The sad passing of Joe Marsella The death occurred last month of a legend in the hospitality sector in Enniscorthy – Giovanni (Joe, Zaza) Marsella of the famed Malocca’s cafe on Slaney Street, who was 86 years old.

Formerly of Brittas Bay, Co. Wicklow, and of Montatticco, Italy, he resided at Tomnalossett, Enniscorthy, up to his peaceful passing.

Joe was the husband of the late Gloria and the adored father of Angelo, Yvonne and Lisa. His Funeral Mass was celebrated in St. Aidan’s Cathedral, Enniscorthy, and burial was immediately afterwards in St. Gabriel’s Cemetery, Arklow, where Joe was reunited with his beloved Gloria.

A tribute to Joe posted on the Malocca’s Facebook page by the Marsella family, read as follows: “To all our valued customers friends and family, we never thought that we would see this day so soon but it is with heartbreak that we are writing this post, our beloved dad aka Joe passed away on Thursday. A character has truly been lost.

Most of you will remember him back in the days of when Malocca’s was previously called Marios. Joe has served chips to many of the people of Enniscorthy and wider community. We have loved seeing all the comments everyone has been posting about him and hearing everyone’s fond memories of him, he was truly one in a million. He was so fondly loved by all. Heaven has truly gained one of the best, we were lucky to have him for 86 years.” n

2nd June 2021 - Page 45

SlaNey food & driNk

The Mediterranean Diet

by Oonagh Trehin BSc MSc ANutr Oonagh Trehin is a registered associate nutritionist (ANutr) from Co. Wexford. She studied nutrition for four years at Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh, and received a BSc Nutrition in 2016. In November 2017, she graduated from an MSc in Public Health at the University of Sunderland. Her passion for nutrition and science led her to set up Little O Nutrition which offers an evidence-based, judgement-free, friendly service. Oonagh contributes a regular column to the Slaney News.

The Mediterranean Diet is one of the most widely recommended diets for health and wellbeing. It is claimed the diet can help reduce weight, prevent type 2 diabetes and improve heart and cognitive health.

The research largely supports these claims, but there are a few things to consider.

The Med Diet used in research includes high consumption of fruit, vegetables, grains, moderate alcohol consumption and limited meat and dairy intakes. This diet advice is very similar to our own health eating guidelines, as well as those in other Western countries. This is because an American, rather than a Mediterranean, started the Med Diet as we know it.

Moreover, the research on the diet is often not carried out in Mediterranean countries.

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It is also worth reminding ourselves that the Mediterranean is a large geographical area, which includes several cultures, and food preferences.

The spice palette of Morocco is quite different to the flavours of Italy, although both are Mediterranean countries. Generalising the diet of such a large area is an inaccurate representation of food intakes.

When the Med Diet started to gain attention in the 1950s, Europe was in the depths of a recession. This no doubt had a significant impact on people’s diets, probably leading to lower dairy and meat intakes, and high grain, fruit and vegetable consumption, as recommended by early researchers. Therefore, it seems the cured meats, cheeses and spiced dishes found across the Mediterranean were left out of the diet!

Overall, the Med Diet is just a repackaged balanced diet. However, there are lifestyle elements from Mediterranean countries we could benefit from, such as leading an active life, enjoying meals with friends and family regularly, plenty of sleep and cooking food at home more.

The message of the Med Diet is great, but general health advice is equally valuable!

Visit: www.littleonutrition.com or contact Oonagh on 083-3260216 or littleonutrition@gmail.com n

SlaNey food & driNk

Looking forward to the reopening of the hospitality sector...

More success for Jackford Gin

Seamus and Mary Canavan of the Monageer Tavern are delighted to be opening on the 7th June for outdoor service, and to welcoming back their loyal customers..

The team at Jackford Gin, Enniscorthy, are delighted to have received a bronze medal award in the London Spirits Competition recently.

This competition scores spirits based on quality, value for money and their overall look. This is another accolade to add to the evergrowing collection of awards won by Jackford Gin. The Stafford family is as rooted in Co. Wexford as the harvest they lovingly produce. They are potato growers, famed for the quality and consistency of their crops. Theirs is the proud heritage of a humble staple. Jackford Irish Potato Gin is born of the rich, dark soil – made with rooster potatoes, Wexford strawberries, basil, lime, and liquorice to name just a few of the carefully selected botanicals, with the creaminess of the potato spirit shining through unlike any other gin spirit. n

Choosing a culinary career?

If you're considering a career in a professional kitchen, VTOS New Ross may have two courses to suit you!

QQI Level 4 - Culinary Skills. QQI Level 5 - Professional Cookery.

2nd June 2021 - Page 47

SlaNey food & driNk

Bean & Goose – a passion for chocolate L-R: Natalie and Karen Keane.

Karen and Natalie Keane are sisters and chocolate makers extraordinaire and are the founders of the award-winning Co. Wexford chocolate company Bean and Goose.

The Journey The Bean and Goose journey began in 2015 when Karen and Natalie started making chocolate together at Karen’s home in ‘Last Tree Farm’ based near Ferns in the heart of the Wexford countryside.

Natalie says, “We began making chocolate using the traditional technique of hand tempering on marble slabs. This process gave us a strong understanding of working with chocolate. You have to slow down, you have to be patient and you have to be persistent.” The sisters loved experimenting with flavours and form, and being part of the street food scene in Dublin at the weekends. This is where they organically grew their business using the Dublin food markets to test their products, meet their early customers and gather their first stockists along the way.

Wexford Inspiration The family roots in Wexford and the location of Last Tree Farm is integral to Bean and Goose chocolate. It informs the flavour combinations, the colours in the packaging, the products that are made and how they are visually presented.

The Chocolate Bean and Goose chocolate is made using the complex and rich flavours of single origin chocolate paired with flavours and ingredients that reflect and celebrate the Irish seasons. Natalie says: “At Bean and Goose we have a passion for using seasonal, natural ingredients and it makes sense to us to use what can grow in our gardens and can be foraged locally. We are surrounded by countryside heavy with elderflower, lovage, gorse, and blackberries. We are inspired by our herb garden full of lavender, mint, bay, fennel, rosemary and thyme. We have summer fruits and orchard trees growing nearby.

Finally, we have the pleasure of using edible flowers such as violas, marigolds, borage and scented roses.”

The sisters still create seasonally through their Tasting club. Each month a new bar is made based on what is in season.

Natalie says, “This is such a fun space for us and our opportunity to really play with flavours. We have created bars like cara-

Page 48 - 2nd June 2021

“We are passionate about the products that we create and are committed to bringing our customers the very best in Irish chocolate.” melised white chocolate with juniper, lavender and cocoa nibs.”

The Business Natalie describes Bean and Goose as “a Wexford chocolate brand that creates luxury craft chocolate blending the best of Irish inspiration and ingredients with the world’s best and most sustainably sourced single-origin chocolate for discerning customers around the world.

Natalie continues, “We are in the very fortunate position of rapidly scaling our business with new opportunities in Ireland and abroad through stores and through our own online platform.” To facilitate the growing demand for its products, Bean and Goose has moved to new, larger premises in Ballyloghan Business Park, Gorey. The space is about three times

larger than their previous unit in Gonzaga House, Enniscorthy, so Karen and Natalie are really enjoying being able to create even more delicious chocolate. Increased production also means that the pair have been able to employ additional staff. There are 14 in the team at present but with plans to increase that over the next 12 months to 25.

Natalie says, “We have grown from the early days of Karen and Natalie making chocolate together. Bean and Goose is now a team of makers who are spreading the story of our chocolate and growing the brand worldwide.”

Check out Bean and Goose: https://beanandgoose.ie/ hello@beanandgoose.ie Facebook beanandgoose Instagram @beanandgoose Twitter beanandgoose n

SlaNey SlaNey foodadS & driNk

Leading the way to weight loss

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

Raspberry and Mint Cheesecake 1 hour 5 minutes plus 9 hours cooling and chilling.

Makes 12.

What you need:  12 digestive biscuits, finely crushed  90g low-fat spread, melted  500g plain quark  3 large eggs  1 tsp ground cinnamon  2 tsp vanilla extract  8 level tbsp sweetener granules  Finely grated zest of 1 orange  Finely grated zest of 1 unwaxed lemon  400g fresh raspberries  200g fat-free natural fromage frais  Small handful of fresh mint leaves, to decorate  1 level tsp icing sugar, to decorate What you do:  Put the biscuits and melted low-fat spread in a bowl and mix well. Spoon into the base of a 22cm-diameter, loose-bottomed cake tin and flatten using the back of a spoon. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes.  Preheat your oven to 160°C/fan 140°C/gas 3. Put the quark, eggs, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, sweetener and orange and lemon zest in a bowl and beat with a wooden spoon until well combined.

Group is now open every Tuesday evening and every Saturday morning

Call Tony to book: 087-1785384 New members always welcome.

See our Facebook page here

 Gently fold in half the raspberries, then pour the mixture over the biscuit base.  Smooth over the top with a palette knife and then bake for 50-55 minutes, or until just set and golden.  Remove from the oven and leave to cool completely. Cover with cling film and chill for 6-8 hours, or overnight if time allows.  To serve, loosen the edges of the cheesecake using a palette knife and transfer to a serving plate. Spread the fromage frais evenly over the top, then decorate with the remaining raspberries and the mint leaves. Sprinkle over the icing sugar, cut into 12 slices and serve. n

2nd June 2021 - Page 49

SlaNey food & driNk

Finest food at Farmers’ Market

A VISIT TO ENNISCORTHY FARMERS’ MARKET, ABBEY SQUARE, ON 15TH MAY, 2021.

Top left: Sam and Ben O’Leary. Top right: Peter and Tom Grannell at the Wilton Mills Farm stall manned

by Sinead Whelan. Above: Angela Griffin has that strawberry feeling, being served by Roiseen Byrne at the Wheelock’s stall. Above right: Happy with her purchase, Helena Murphy with her new season Wheelock’s strawberries. Right: Two young shoppers, Chloe Noctor and Matelda McGuire. Far right: Mary O’Brien enjoying great value at Fortune’s Farm Fresh stall. Below: Sophie Kearney, Jamie O’Brien and Noah Kearney.

Below right: Dillon Sheekey, Sarah Eicher, Aradhana Bannerji, and Jamie Paradis all the way from America, are students doing a course in Rathnure, and loving the Enniscorthy hot-dogs. n

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SlaNey food & driNk Far left: Trudie Power of Trudie’s Kitchen.

Centre: Michael Walsh of Ballyhack Smokehouse.

Right: Fiona Falconer of Wild About.

Wexford four to the fore 57 food, drink and non-food suppliers have won a contract to supply Aldi for two weeks from Sunday 6th June, made up of 44 new suppliers and 13 repeat suppliers with new products.

place on the Grow with Aldi Supplier Development Programme with their products:

The Grow with Aldi Supplier Development Programme is now in its fourth year and this year entrants were encouraged to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.

Wild About, Wexford, Sparkling Fennel Drink (330ml), €2.29.

Three of Wexford’s food, drink and nonfood suppliers have won a new contract to supply Aldi’s 145 stores through the Programme.

Trudie's Kitchen, Wexford, Trudie’s Kitchen Variety Pack – contains coleslaw, potato salad and free-range egg salad in a trio pack (250g), €3.49.

This year, the Grow with Aldi message focused on sustainability, and entrants were encouraged to demonstrate how their product/company is focusing on sustainability within their business.

Kellys Bakery, Wexford, 4 Pack Jam Doughnuts.

In the last four years, almost 800 Irish suppliers have entered the Grow with Aldi programme with the programme receiving the highest number of entrants ever in 2021.

108 exciting Irish-made products from the 57 suppliers will now go on sale nationwide as part of an Aldi Specialbuys event, kicking off on Sunday, 6th June for two weeks only.

The following suppliers have successfully won a

Wild About, Wexford, Sparkling Nettle Drink (330ml), €2.29.

Ballyhack Smokehouse, Wexford, Ballyhack Smokehouse Artisan Beech Smoked Salmon (200g), €7.49.

Trudie Power of Trudie’s Kitchen said: ‘’Due to Aldi’s expansive number of stores, Grow with Aldi has allowed

Trudie’s Kitchen to reach shoppers beyond the South East. We are delighted to have our homemade variety pack in stores nationwide for the June bank holiday weekend.’’

Aldi works with over 330 Irish suppliers and will sell over €1billion worth of Irish goods this year.

Developed in partnership with Bord Bia, Grow with Aldi supports small and medium Irish suppliers in listing with a national retailer. Suppliers receive tailored mentoring, workshops from the Aldi Buying Team and Bord Bia technical experts, teaching them the skills to help grow and develop their product, brand and business.

Five of the Grow with Aldi suppliers will be given a further opportunity, winning a contract for their product to be sold in Aldi’s Irish stores yearround.

Commenting, John Curtin, Aldi Group Buying Director, said: “The first three years of the programme were very successful for everyone involved, and Aldi forged new links with fantastic Irish suppliers from around the country. During Covid-19, we were also in a position to help even more small Irish suppliers listing on our shelves as part of the Grow with Aldi programme, and we know that the quality of food and drink produced in Ireland is outstanding.” n

2nd June 2021 - Page 51

SlaNey ad

Comhairle Contae

053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie

Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

Naming Consultation – Municipal Cemetery at Enniscorthy

These bye-laws will come into force on 1st April, 2021.

A copy of the Bye-Laws are available for inspection (by appointment only) and may be obtained free of charge

Wexford County Council invites the public to make formal submissions for the proposed name of its cemetery at Enniscorthy.

from 9.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday at GoreyKilmuckridge Municipal District, Civic Offices, Civic Square, Gorey, Co Wexford and on-line at www.wexfordcoco.ie

The proposal should reflect the local townslands, landscape, culture or historical persons associated with the area. Place names should be easily pronounced and the use of the Irish Language is encouraged, where possible.

The name proposed, or one very similar, should not be in the electoral area. Proposals should also be cognisant of the multi-denominational/non-denominational nature of this municipal cemetery.

Liz Stanley, A/District Manager, Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District.

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Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Submissions can be made at www.wexfordcoco.ie

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends

(consultation portal).

to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from

Closing date for receipt of submissions is 5pm, 2nd July

Monday 28 June to Friday 2 July 2021, to facilitate an

2021.

inspection of the Deeps Bridge, Deeps, Co. Wexford.

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Road Closure

Section 199(1) the Local Government Act 2001 and the Local Government Act 2001 (Bye-Laws) Regulations 2006

Notice of Making of Bye Laws Bye-laws of Wexford County Council for the Prohibition of Overnight Camping on Roads and in Public Places in Courtown Wexford County Council gives notice that it has adopted the above bye-laws at the Council meeting held on 14th

Road: L3006-2/3 at Deeps/Killurin from its junction with the L2045 at Killurin to its Junction with the L7011 at Newtown Upper.

Alternative Route Route: From Killurin to Ardcandrisk to Ferrycarrig to Kyle Cross to Deeps via the L2045, R730, N11 and the L3006.

Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated.

December, 2020 for the prohibition of overnight camping on

Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road

roads and in public places in Courtown.

should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal

Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

Page 52 - 2nd June 2021

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

SlaNey SlaNeyadS ad

Comhairle Contae

053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie

Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 8 June, 2021 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

WEXFORD COUNTY COUNCIL are looking for members of our community to join as Retained (part-time) Firefighters in NEW ROSS FIRE STATION

Public Notice Swimming in Wexford County Council Piers and Harbours Wexford County Council wishes to advise that swimming in or near piers and harbours can be hazardous.

Potential hazards include but are not limited to: 

Underwater obstructions



Moving boats



Propellers and backwash from vessels



Marine wildlife, seals etc



Deep and shallow water



Slippery and uneven surfaces



Tides and strong currents



Water quality unsuitable for bathing

Parents should ensure that children and minors are aware of these dangers.

Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and not more than 55 years of age on the latest date for receipt of completed application forms. Candidates must reside and work within a reasonable distance of the fire station to enable him/her to respond promptly to all calls. Positions are open to both male and female applicants. Panels may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled.

The employment is part-time. However, a firefighter is paid an Annual Retainer to be available for calls at all times. In addition a firefighter is paid an hourly rate for attendance at calls and weekly training.

Further information and application forms are available from, Customer Services, Block F, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. Phone: (053) 9196000 or at www.wexford.ie

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms is 5:00 pm on Thursday 24th June 2021 Information Night Please come along to our information night on Tuesday 15th June, 2021 as follows: New Ross Fire Station: 19:00 – 20:00 Fire Service staff will be available to answer any queries and explain the position of a retained fire-fighter in more detail.

WEXFORD COUNTY COUNCIL IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER

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

2nd June 2021 - Page 53

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe

The comings and goings at Enniscorthy Chamber

Outgoing Chamber President Maree Lyng (left) with incoming President Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (right), pictured recently at Enniscorthy Technology Park.

The Development Officer’s Report to the 2021 AGM of Enniscorthy Chamber provides an excellent summary of recent and future business developments in the town. We reproduce it here in its entirety.

Never before in the time honoured history of Enniscorthy and District Chamber of Commerce, has the Chamber faced challenges of the magnitude experienced over the past 14 months.

The Coronavirus Pandemic brought us, like so many others, almost to the point of extinction and but for the sterling leadership of our President, Maree Lyng, we might well have been confined to the pages of history by now.

That we have survived to host another AGM is, I believe, due entirely to her refusal to yield under pressure and to her determination not to allow the pandemic to control our lives or to permanently disrupt our normal activities. Maree, we owe you a debt of gratitude which cannot be adequately expressed in mere words.

It must be acknowledged, however, that

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our planned programme of activities for 2020, all designed to improve the quality of commercial business and quality of life in Enniscorthy town and district, had to be seriously curtailed – in many instances cancelled altogether – and some of our 2021 events have also had to be cancelled, albeit with some light at the end of the tunnel as I write this report.

To get Enniscorthy up and running again is the immediate priority and to this end I am working closely with Enniscorthy Town and District Manager, Ger Mackey. We have met with all the relevant stakeholders i.e. the Gardaí, traders, the licensed vintners, environmental health officials, health and safety officers etc., and the consensus of opinion is that we are well placed for a return to normality in the coming weeks and months.

The Chamber is actively negotiating with 18 drink and food outlets in Enniscorthy with a

view to street trading over the summer months and plans are well advanced also for a major clean-up of all town centre streets.

I have sent a detailed report on the possibility of street trading this summer to Acting Director of Services, Wexford County Council, Ms. Carolyne Godkin, which she has already advised has been most useful.

Two areas in particular, Slaney Street and Templeshannon Quay, have been singled out for special attention and the plan is to transform both areas from an aesthetic point of view. The Chamber, together with ‘Re-Imagining Enniscorthy’ Sub Committee members has been instrumental in collaborating with the Municipal District in securing almost €200,000 in Heritage Grants for the revamp of Slaney Street and

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe this project is about to get underway almost immediately.

ests that we can lobby to reach the stated objective of creating 1,000 new jobs in Enniscorthy.

Work on improving the aesthetic appearance of Templeshannon Quay is already underway and hopefully will be completed in time for the summer season. I have given considerable time to both projects and intend to pursue each until they are completed.

The campaign to have Broadband readily available in all areas of the town is gaining momentum with work progressing on installing a fibre-optic cable to provide this service. I recently carried out a survey of business interests in order to ascertain the quality of the existing service and the results of that survey have been passed to Siro who are working with Vodafone and the ESB in a joint venture to provide a fast broadband service. When installed it will be a game changer for Enniscorthy and will bring the town into the modern communications era.

While Covid has hampered us in achieving all our objectives this year, a number of important initiatives were instigated during the period under review and none more so that the establishment of the ‘Re-Imagining Enniscorthy’ Committee which is perhaps the most influential gathering of business people ever assembled under one umbrella.

Established at the behest of Ger Mackey, Town & District Manager, and the Chamber, following a meeting on December 31st, 2019 – this committee is at the core of many projects aimed at bringing jobs and industry to Enniscorthy. It meets regularly, initially in the Chamber and more recently by zoom, and has identified any number of projects which are presently being worked on by various sub-committees of the group.

For example, the Slaney Street project is an initiative of the committee. The Chamber facilitates these committees and contributes strongly on all fronts.

The Chamber has also been heavily involved in the upgrading of the North Business District Hub (Old Dublin Road) another of our projects. We set up the steering committee under Chairman Ben Bernie to improve the aesthetic appearance of the area and make it more attractive to industry.

We are having ongoing discussions with the vested interests and County Council officials over the best use of the Murphy Floods Hotel site.

The promotion of online shopping in Enniscorthy is a major priority and great strides have been made in this regard. The Chamber, along with Ed Murphy, Senior Financial Advisor to the ‘Re-Imagining Enniscorthy’ Committee, are engaging with HubSku, an online tech company, to bring this important project to fruition. So far we have signed up more than a dozen outlets in Enniscorthy who are now working with HubSku on this project.

Working with Ed Murphy, I helped establish an online sales service for retailers in both Ferns and Bunclody which is proving very successful and which will develop further going forward. Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy had a huge input into this venture and interacted with all the Bunclody businesses.

Red C, a Research and Marketing Company,

Jimmy Gahan, Development Officer, Enniscorthy & District Chamber has been commissioned to compile a detailed survey on Enniscorthy’s needs going forward and their research is now nearing completion with a full report expected in the coming weeks. This will give the Chamber, The Municipal Authority, The Councillors, and the Re-imagining Enniscorthy Committee the information needed to make informed decisions on the town’s future.

At the height of the pandemic lockdown in 2020, the Chamber was asked by the HSE and Wexford County Council to organise a rural Enniscorthy Meals-on-Wheels scheme to help vulnerable people self-isolating. This has been a huge help to our elderly population at a time when local hotels and restaurants were closed, and they had no access to facilities. There has now been a committee set up to manage this going forward and I am representing the Chamber on that, which is chaired by our incoming President, Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy.

Another project in which we had considerable input, together with the Municipal Authority, was the floodlighting of iconic buildings in Enniscorthy. Our efforts resulted in the Old Bridge, St. Aidan’s Cathedral, St. Mary’s Church, The Castle, and The Athenaeum being floodlit while both banks, AIB and Bank of Ireland, acceded to our request to floodlight their buildings.

The Chamber is also actively engaged in promoting the new Technology Park at Salville, our offices facilitated quite a number of meetings associated with this development. We are committed to showcasing this building to all commercial inter-

The Chamber and the Municipal Authority was the driving force behind the ‘Shop Enniscorthy Support Local’ Christmas campaign which exceeded all expectations.

A staggering 125 local traders are now listed and engaging on the website www.shopenniscorthy.ie and the number is growing weekly. Initially established for the Christmas period, the initiative was so successful, we have, with the support of the Municipal Authority, continued to engage with this project and will do so for the foreseeable future.

An example of the close working relationship which exists between the Chamber and the Municipal Authority occurred earlier this year when the River Slaney threatened to burst its banks and flood low-lying areas of the town. The Chamber of Commerce was requested by the Municipal Authority to contact all of the local businesses in low lying areas and to take precautionary measures in order to minimise any possible damage. The Chamber immediately implemented its own alert programme and within 90 minutes of the Municipal Authority’s Flood Alert being activated, all business owners in Templeshannon, Templeshannon Quay, Abbey Quay and the Island Road were contacted and asked to return to their premises. Like other members of the emergency services, Chamber personnel remained on standby throughout Tuesday night and into the early hours of Wednesday morning to offer further assistance if required.

Slaney Flood Relief Programme: We recently attended a zoom meeting with Amanda Byrne, Acting Director of Services for Special Projects, to get an update on when this project is to start. We have a subcommittee which has been working with Larry McHale in getting updates on the ongoing progress of the project and we have arranged bimonthly meetings with Amanda Byrne and Larry McHale to monitor progress.

2nd June 2021 - Page 55

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe A major disappointment in 2020 was the cancellation of Santa’s Enchanted Castle.

However, we compensated for the loss of this money-spinning project by introducing ‘Santa’s Enchanted Village’ in the Market Square. This hugely successful venture compensated to some extent for the loss of the Castle project, but it didn’t fill the void for local hoteliers and guesthouse owners who missed out on the lucrative bed night market which the Enchanted Castle generated in previous years. However, it is our full intention to feature ‘Santa’s Enchanted Castle’ in our 2021 Christmas programme if permitted.

Here I would like to compliment Eric Barron, Director, and Ger Mackey, Town & District Manager, for all their work in bringing ‘Santa’s Enchanted Village’ to life in the Market Square. It certainly filled a void in creating a magical atmosphere in the town in the run-up to Christmas and more than 2,000 children visited Santa in his grotto over the three weeks the ‘village’ was operational. The feedback from local business was very positive.

Again, because of the Coronavirus pandemic, many of the Chamber’s social activities had to be cancelled in 2020. Our annual golf classic, a planned concert, the Chamber Ball all fell victim to the Government-imposed restrictions as did our ‘Wake-Up Wednesday’ and Networking Lunches events. Nevertheless, despite the office being forced to close in line with Government directives, we managed to provide a service to all members needing assistance. Hundreds of queries were dealt with throughout 2020 and in the first months of 2021 and the plan now going forward is to re-engage with all members and to assist in every way possible in them and us getting back to normal.

We managed to make this year a busy one for the Chamber in our involvement in community related activities. I worked very closely with the Enniscorthy Defibrillator Project and helped with the negotiations for a Grant of €2,000 from Wexford County Council which was secured by the Group for maintaining the 15 plus Defibrillators now available at strategic locations throughout

the town. This is an important initiative and will have a very positive effect on our wellbeing offering in the town.

Our Enniscorthy Gift Vouchers Scheme continues to be successful with more than €8,000 worth of vouchers purchased over the Christmas period. We would ask for your continued support for this initiative as it supports local business and keeps money and jobs in our town.

In terms of commercial property and activity, I was instrumental also in securing tenants for vacant properties in Abbey Square, Weafer Street, Rafter Street, Castle Hill, Duffry Hill and on Templeshannon Quay.

The Chamber liaised with Re-imagining Enniscorthy Committee to secure a grant to improve the appearance of vacant properties in Cathedral Street, Main Street and Market Square and here I wish to acknowledge the support received from Ger Mackey, Town and District Manager also.

This is a great addition to improving our public realm.

The possibility of bringing Natural Gas to Enniscorthy is being explored and initial talks have taken place. I will update you further as more progress is made.

Talks are continuing about the provision of additional parking spaces on the East side of Enniscorthy. Both Ger Mackey and Town Engineer, Neil Dempsey, have examined a possible site and are suitably impressed.

However, further exploration is necessary before a final decision can be made.

Hopefully, it will come to fruition.

I am receiving enthusiastic support from the Gardaí in Enniscorthy for the establishment of a town-wide Community Alert Scheme.

Progress on the setting up of the scheme is at an advanced stage with Garda Sergeant Colm Matthews taking the lead. The next step in the plan is to call a public meeting and the Chamber will take the lead in organising same. This will help our commercial and business focus in the long term by ensuring we have a strong alert system in place.

A new committee recently formed in

Enniscorthy approached us to explore the possibility of providing allotments for the growing of vegetables etc, and we are assisting in seeking out suitable parcels of land for this project. This links in with our support of the Sustainable Goals and we are continuing to work with this group.

During 2020, the Chamber, despite being closed for long periods, continued to act as the voice of the business community. We were engaged in every facet of economic life and continuously kept members updated on all Government initiatives to help businesses survive the Coronavirus pandemic. We will continue to do so into the future and with the support of our loyal membership we will ensure the voice of Enniscorthy’s business s community is heard in all places of importance.

Throughout 2020 I wish to acknowledge the huge support of the Elected Members of the Municipal Authority.

I would also like to acknowledge the help and cooperation of our Enniscorthy based Oireachtas Members regarding the ongoing development of Enniscorthy Town and District.

I further wish to acknowledge all the staff of Wexford County Council and particularly Ger Mackey, District Manager, and Carolyne Godkin, Acting Director of Services, for all their help and commitment during the year.

My thanks and appreciation also to the Board of Enniscorthy and District Chamber for all their voluntary contributions during the year.

I wish to acknowledge the support of Betty Kelly, Rosie Murphy, Angela Davis, Aisling Cody, and Michael Breen who have all contributed to the successful running of the Chamber.

And finally, I wish to thank you, the Members, for your ongoing support and cooperation in anything that I have approached you on over the past 18 months.

Thank you, James (Jimmy) Gahan, Development Officer.

The Annual General Meeting of Enniscorthy & District Chamber took place remotely on Monday 24th May. Further information available from info@enniscorthychamber.ie

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SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe

Congrats to Scurri

Scurri, the Wexford cloud-based software provider that connects and optimises the eCommerce ordering, shipping, and delivery process, has been named among the top 40 retail tech start-ups operating globally in Retail Week World Retail Congress’ (RWRC) second annual Discovery report, published last month.

Rory O’Connor, CEO and Founder of Scurri, said: “We at Scurri are delighted to have been selected and ranked alongside great companies delivering immense value to the retail sector. eCommerce has grown strongly since the start of the pandemic but is getting more complicated with more service offerings being provided. Retail tech plays a pivotal role in helping companies survive these challenges.”

Wexford company Scurri has been named among the world’s top start-ups helping retailers rebuild from Covid.

Scurri is a delivery management platform that powers ordering, shipping and delivery for online sellers. Scurri adds value across the eCommerce journey, including tailoring delivery options at checkout, integrating seamlessly with the world’s most familiar carriers and platforms, live tracking of deliveries and comprehensive reporting right through the full process, from order to delivery. Clients include eBay, Vision Direct, and Gousto, and delivery partners include carriers UPS, Royal Mail, DHL, DPD. n

Shop Local Vouchers – a great way to support local businesses There are two local voucher schemes running in Co. Wexford.

The ‘Enniscorthy Gift Voucher’ covers around 60 businesses in the Enniscorthy area. The ‘County Wexford Shop Local Voucher’ covers participating outlets in the Gorey, New Ross and Wexford areas.

The Enniscorthy Voucher is a joint initiative between Enniscorthy & District Chamber and Enniscorthy Business Association, and vouchers can be purchased at: Enniscorthy & District Chamber Offices, Enniscorthy Credit Union and Frizelle, O’Leary & Co. Solicitors. A list of participating business can be found here The list of over 240 businesses accepting The County Wexford Shop Local Vouchers can be viewed on the County Wexford Chamber website.

If any businesses wish to sign up to accept the Enniscorthy vouchers please contact Enniscorthy Chamber on 053 9232006 or admin@enniscorthychamber.ie. For County Wexford Shop Local Vouchers, please contact County Wexford Chamber on 053 9122226 or email admin@countywexfordchamber.ie n

2nd June 2021 - Page 57

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe

Barbara-Anne is new Chamber President to keep in touch with more than 75% of members and keep them informed of details on all government grants, supports and information relative to their respective businesses.

The outgoing Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District is the new President of Enniscorthy & District Chamber of Commerce.

Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy from Bunclody was unanimously elected at the Chamber AGM which was held by zoom on 24th May in accordance with strict Government regulations governing the number of people allowed gather in one place.

The new President succeeds Maree Lyng, one of the most influential Chamber members ever to don the Presidential Chains of Office. Ms. Lyng’s term of office was extended by a year following the untimely death of her Vice President, the late Michael O’Leary, and at the AGM tributes to his memory were led by President Lyng, with all members sharing her sentiments of a much revered and much respected member whose untimely death deprived the Chamber of a talent of enormous potential.

Despite such a loss of talent, President Lyng told the meeting that the Chamber was fortunate in having a member of the calibre of Barbara-Anne Murphy to take on the duties of Vice President at such a difficult time following the passing of Michael O’Leary. Now that BarbaraAnne was being elevated to the top post, the outgoing President was confident the future leadership of the Chamber was in excellent hands.

Explaining how the Chamber of Commerce is a facilitative group whose real strength is in collaborative and cooperation in all aspects of commercial and strategic projects, President Lyng said the strength of the Chamber’s brand rests with the members and their approach to all sectors of society and to Wexford County Council. She spoke of the strong links between the Chamber and the County Council's Acting Director of Services, Ms. Carolyne Godkin and the equally strong links which exist between the Chamber and Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager, Ger Mackey.

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The new President of Enniscorthy & District Chamber of Commerce is Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy from Bunclody.

The outgoing President then gave a detailed analysis of the ongoing work of the Chamber and of the many projects it is involved in before detailing an impressive list of the works it is undertaking in 2021 in conjunction with Wexford County Council. Many of the planned projects such as a comprehensive analysis of availability of high-speed broadband in Enniscorthy town and district from a business perspective, is already in train said President Lyng, while the new incoming Board will prioritise other projects in discussions with Ms. Godkin and Mr. Mackey and other vested interests.

Acknowledging a very difficult year for the Chamber due to Covid 19 restrictions, a difficulty shared by almost all Chamber members, Ms. Lyng pointed out that despite the office being closed for long periods, the Chamber was able

Expressing her appreciation at being invited to address the meeting, Acting Director of Services Carolyne Godkin praised the work of the Chamber and its important role in the community. These are exciting times in both Enniscorthy town and District said Ms. Godkin before elaborating further by highlighting just some of the many projects in the pipeline for the future betterment of the entire area. The Tech Park and the Slaney Flood Relief Programme will change the very face of Enniscorthy, while a further €600,000 will be invested in Phase 2 of the Sport Hub. A total of €500,000 will be invested in community projects in the district this year and €400,000 in developing active travel routes, added Ms. Godkin. A new initiative for the re-development of Slaney Street is already ‘up and running’ she said and plans for an outdoor dining experience over the summer months are being worked on.

The regeneration of Enniscorthy town centre is part of the County Council’s long-term strategy, Ms. Godkin pointed out, and and URDF funding is being sought for this work while the redevelopment of Templeshannon is another priority, she added. Plans are in place to have Enniscorthy nominated as a decarbonisation zone and she expected plans to be fully in place by year’s end in respect of this important development.

Ms. Godkin also expected substantial grants to follow once the decarbonisation plans are fully in place.

With regards to the Murphy Floods Hotel site, the Acting Director of Services said she expected positive news soon before announcing Capital Funding for the proposed new Fire Station and a €1 million Development Grant for Phase 2 of the Tech Park at Salville when construction commences. n

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe

Grants for outdoor seating & accessories The aim of the new €17m Outdoor Seating & Accessories for Tourism & Hospitality Grant Scheme (OSAS) is to provide financial support to tourism and hospitality businesses in Ireland’s towns and villages, towards the cost of equipment to provide additional outdoor seating and, therefore, increase their outdoor dining capacity for the summer of 2021.

or other tourism and hospitality business establishments where food is sold for consumption on the premises.

The scheme is open to attractions, hotels, restaurants, cafes, public houses

•

•

•

Funding under the scheme is only available to existing businesses who operate from a premises that is a commercially rateable property.

Applicants can apply for a grant of up to €4,000 (for up to 75% of the ex-VAT cost of equipment purchased) Eligible expenditure includes tables, chairs, umbrellas, electric heaters,

•

screens/windbreaks, plant stands and wooden platforms.

Expenditure must be incurred between the 1st April 2020 and 30th September 2021.

The closing date for applications is 30th September 2021. n

www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/

Liz Hore, Head of Enterprise, Wexford Local Enterprise Office

2nd June 2021 - Page 59

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe

Lots happening in the commercial life of Enniscorthy Templeshannon site is now on the market

On the move...

A commercial development site in Templeshannon, extending to 0.3 of an acre, is for sale

by Quinn Property, Gorey, quoting €475,000.

Rebecca’s Hair & Makeup Unisex Salon which was based on the Old Dublin Road has now reopened in partnership with Mark Fortune at 54 Wafer Street, Enniscorthy, under the new banner of ‘Not Just Hair by R&M Unisex Salon’ Contact: 087-6239090.

This prime site is located adjacent to the Waterfront Leisure Centre and the local railway station.

It comprises of three separate properties with a large carpark area and offers the opportunity for a large scale town centre commercial development.

The distinctive Sami’s Hair Parlour at the top of Slaney Street has now moved to bigger and better premises at the bottom of the same street.

Best of luck to Taoufik and his team with that move.

Another barber on the move is The James Boys Barbers who have also moved to bigger and better premises, but in the same area – Templeshannon. The new premises is beside the old cinema.

For sale by: Quinn Property, 26 Main St, Gorey Co. Wexford sales@quinnproperty.ie Tel: 053 94 80000.

It is zoned town centre under the current Enniscorthy Development Plan.

This will allow a mixture of commercial and residential development, subject to the relevant planning.

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Congrats to well known local hairdresser Aideen Vonno who has started a new venture next door to her existing hair salon at Duffry Hill. Eco-Kind is a zero-waste shop carrying up to 300 bulk foods, liquids and cleaning products as well as zero-waste and personal hygiene products. See page 32 for more details.

Two restaurant premises have reopened under new ownership. What was Toffee and Thyme on Rafter Street is now The Pantry (which has several other outlets atround the county) and the old Baked Potato premises on the Old Dublin Road has been taken over by Toffee and Thyme. More details on page 39. n

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe

Why support local businesses?

Wexford Mayor Leonard Kelly says that ‘Shop Local’ is not an empty slogan and outlines the reasons why it is important. #1: Buy local to support yourself

#6: Get better service

Studies show that when you buy from an independent, locally owned business, rather than a nationally owned business, significantly more of your money is used to make purchases from other local businesses, service providers and farms continuing to strengthen the economic base of the community.

Local businesses often hire people with a better understanding of the products they are selling and take more time to get to know customers. #7: Invest in your community Wexford Mayor, Leonard Kelly

#2: Be friendly to our environment

#3: Support community groups

Buying local produce reduces your carbon footprint. Locally owned businesses can make more local purchases requiring less transportation and generally set up shop in town centres as opposed to on the outer edges. This means contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution.

Non-profit organisations receive an average 250% more support from smaller business owners than they do from large businesses. You will know this yourselves from your fundraising efforts and raffles. Remind your members to support the businesses that support you.

Everything that is not produced in your local area has to be transported from a farm, industry or factory. If it is imported, it will have to be transported by boat or by plane. The fuel consumption quickly builds up your ‘food miles’.

Where we shop, where we eat and have fun – all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of this place. Our tourism businesses also benefit.

The country markets or the farmers’ markets are the best places to find good quality food and it is usually produced locally.

When you are in the supermarket, think about the food you’re buying. Where was it produced? Can you buy Irish instead of imported foods? Buying Irish produce helps to reduce your ‘food miles’, ensures that you eat fresher food and also helps to support Irish industry.

#4: Keep your community unique

“Creating an identity/proposition (or ‘individual flavour’) for each destination will help to achieve standout while at the same time ensuring a coordinated, clear, consistent and economical approach to branding” – Fáilte Ireland. #5: Local businesses create more jobs Small local businesses are the largest employer nationally and provide the most jobs to local residents.

Local businesses are owned by people who live in the community, are less likely to leave, and are more invested in the community’s future. #8: Put your taxes to good use Local businesses require comparatively little infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services as compared to nationally owned stores entering the community. In addition, internationally owned businesses often demand tax incentives. #9: Encourage future investment Economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenised world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character. #10: Competition leads to more choices A marketplace of tens of thousands of small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long-term. A multitude of small businesses, each selecting products based not on a national sales plan but on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, guarantees a much broader range of product choices. n

2nd June 2021 - Page 61

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe The Minister of State for Law Reform, Youth Justice and Immigration, James Browne TD, has welcomed the passing by both the Dáil and Seanad of the Personal Insolvency (Amendment) Bill 2020. The Bill will be sent shortly to the President for his signature.

The Bill makes a number of other practical changes to ensure that personal insolvency processes work better for those affected by the pandemic: n allowing a key advisory meeting

between the insolvent person and their financial adviser to take place via remote communications technology, rather than face to face;

The Bill, initiated in September 2020 by Minister McEntee, makes a number of urgent changes to the Personal Insolvency Act 2012, to help people who are struggling to pay their debts to have more effective access to personal insolvency processes and solutions, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Minister Browne said, “I welcome the passage of this valuable Bill by the Oireachtas, and I look forward to it being signed into law by the President. We are working to ensure that the Act can then come into operation as quickly as possible.

“Perhaps the most important change made by the Bill relates to insolvent homeowners who are struggling to pay their home mortgage arrears. The Personal Insolvency (Amendment) Act 2015 introduced a key protection for these borrowers. It allowed them a right to seek review by a court, if their mortgage lender, or other creditors, refuse a reasonable proposal for a personal insolvency arrangement.

“However, this protection currently only applies to home mortgage arrears dating from before 1 January 2015. So a person at risk of losing their home, whose financial difficulties first arose from the COVID-19 pandemic, would be unable to apply for the court review. The Bill removes the condition that the borrower’s home mortgage arrears must pre-date 1 January 2015, in light of these changed economic circumstances.”

The Bill also adjusts the asset ceiling for an insolvent person applying for a Debt Relief Notice – the statutory debt restructure designed for people with debts not exceeding €35,000, and very little income or assets. The ceiling for assets (including savings) is raised from

n allowing a short extra extension of

some key procedural deadlines; and n allowing the insolvent person to make

Minister James Browne has welcomed the passing by the Oireachtas of the Personal Insolvency (Amendment) Bill 2020 saying that measures will help borrowers at risk of losing their homes.

The Bill makes practical changes to ensure that borrowers have effective access to personal insolvency legislation, despite the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Bill removes a barrier to borrowers applying for court review, if creditors refuse a personal insolvency proposal that includes their home mortgage arrears.

Bill removes obstacle for people on very low incomes, seeking to resolve debts via a Debt Relief Notice. €400 to €1,500. This will remove an obstacle that could otherwise affect recipients of some social welfare payments that are paid as lump sums, such as Fuel Allowance or Carer’s Support Grant.

The Minister continued, “I’m glad to say that the Bill will also help people on very low incomes, who don’t own a property or have any significant assets, and are currently burdened with debts they have no prospect of being able to pay. The Bill removes a potential obstacle to people in this situation availing of a Debt Relief Notice, to help them return to solvency.”

a written Confirmation of Truth, which does not have to be formally sworn or witnessed, as an alternative to a statutory declaration (while retaining strict penalties for making any such statement that the person does not believe to be true.)

The Minister concluded, “Living with unsustainable debt is a very stressful situation for individuals and families, and that is why this Bill is so important. It can happen to anybody, and it can arise for reasons beyond the person’s individual control.

“Entering the insolvency process is not an easy way out, as is sometimes suggested. It requires continued engagement from the insolvent person.

But it provides a vital pathway for people to get back to solvency, and to re-engage with our economy.’

“This Bill will ensure more effective and more practical access to personal insolvency solutions for families who want to stay in their homes and who are willing to work their way through their debt problems. The Government continues to make free, expert financial, legal advice and help available through the Abhaile scheme, for those in home mortgage arrears who are at risk of losing their homes.

“I would strongly encourage anyone who is worried about home mortgage arrears, or other problem debts, to contact MABS or the Insolvency Service for advice and help.’ n

Browne calls for IDA focus on South East Minister James Browne TD is calling on Enterprise Ireland to establish a new region for the South East and appoint a dedicated Director to oversee this region.

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Under the current arrangements, there is a Director for the South which includes County Cork and four other counties. This limits the attention and investment received in Co. Wexford.

Minister Browne says, “I have been engaging with colleagues in government and officials in Enterprise Ireland to advance this matter for the benefit of jobs, investment, and opportunities in our county.” n

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe

LEOs: Supporting 35,000 jobs created by Covid-19 and Brexit. Last year, the Local Enterprise Offices trained over 77,000 entrepreneurs and business representatives, up from 37,000 the year previous. 16,231 completed business mentoring assignments up from 10,756 in 2019.

Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) nationwide are now supporting over 7,500 small businesses and 35,000 jobs according to new figures for the year 2020.

Some key facts from 2020: • 13,000 small firms approved for Trading Online Vouchers.

In 2020, over €22million was approved

by Local Enterprise Offices to clients for projects across the year to help improve their businesses in a range of areas. This figure was up from €20 million in 2019 and is the largest amount of approved funding by the Local Enterprise Offices to small businesses to date.

• 5,585 new jobs created in 2020.

• Net jobs loss of 1,494 in same year.

• 108% increase in training provided.

• 7,500 small businesses employing 35,000 people supported.

• A record €22 million approved for businesses in financial assistance.

The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar TD recently announced the annual results of the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) for 2020 which showed that over 7,500 companies employing over 35,000 people are now supported by the LEOs. The Tánaiste said: “Our Local Enterprise Offices play a really important role in fostering enterprise across the country.

In the face of unprecedented challenges, our LEOs managed to pivot and adapt quickly, to help their network of local businesses endure the crisis of the pandemic. When small businesses needed help more than ever, their virtual door was always open and they were able to train, fund and mentor more businesses last year than ever before."

“LEOs are at the very heart of business in communities across the country. The work they do is invaluable and I want to express my particular appreciation to all LEO staff for their professionalism and commitment. I know 2020 was a really difficult year for them and for the businesses they help. The coming months will be similarly busy as we reopen our economy and help businesses get back on their feet. I know LEOs will be to the forefront as we rebuild after the pandemic.”

Supported by the Government, Local Enterprise Office supported companies created 5,585 new jobs in 2020. Despite the new jobs created, there was a net jobs loss of 1,494 across the LEO portfolio of client companies in what was a

Liz Hore, Head of Enterprise, Wexford County Council

challenging year for small businesses.

The Local Enterprise Offices were to the fore in supporting small businesses across the country in 2020, helping thousands to pivot online or adapt their products and services through new Government supports introduced as part of the July Stimulus Package. The LEOs approved 13,091 Trading Online Vouchers to assist businesses get online to trade or improve their existing online offering. This was up over 950% from 1,218 in 2019 and proved to be a vital resource for many businesses helping to reach their customers.

The Local Enterprise Offices are now supporting 35,236 jobs across 7,529 companies. 2020 also saw the successful transition of 133 companies from the Local Enterprise Offices to Enterprise Ireland as they continue to scale and look to international markets.

The LEOs provided significant training and mentoring to small businesses in 2020 to help them navigate the particularly difficult trading environment

Padraic McElwee, chair of the network of Local Enterprise Offices, said; “2020 was a challenging year for everyone, and small businesses were no different. The Local Enterprise Offices were to the fore in trying to help these companies pivot or adapt their businesses to sustain through the issues caused by Covid and Brexit. The figures show the level of support that was given, both financially and through training, mentoring and significantly, the work done in getting small companies online to ensure they could continue to reach their customers.

While the challenging environment still exists for many, we have also seen the best of Irish business. Whether that is in their innovations to help in the fight against Covid or companies pivoting their businesses quickly to adapt and survive or seeing that strong sense of local pride with companies helping each other in their own communities and the Local Enterprise Offices have tried to help where we can along the way.”

The Local Enterprise Offices located in the local authorities and funded through Enterprise Ireland support over 7,500 small Irish businesses and entrepreneurs nationwide. Since their establishment in 2014 they have been for the first stop shop for entrepreneurs and small businesses and providing a range of supports including financial, mentoring, training and sector specific expertise to help guide businesses at any stage of their development.

For more information on the Local Enterprise Offices go to www.LocalEnterprise.ie n

2nd June 2021 - Page 63

SlaNey petS

MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy.

T: (053) 9233187, 9236674.

F: (053) 9236674.

E: moynevet@gmail.com

VET DIARY FOR JUNE with the Moyne Veterinary Hospital This month Joe Kavanagh looks at diet and digestion...

The old adage that 'We are what we eat' is very true but

this for a while by storing this partially digested foreign

I've read recently a tweak on it: 'You are what you

food, we may not notice any changes, but over time this

digest' and this is often the crux of underlying

builds up and there is more and more evidence showing

conditions in ourselves and our animals.

up in the medical field of the link between chronic

Quite often unknowingly we get dog/cat food thinking

inflammatory conditions and gut health.

yeah that looks a complete diet so should be grand. It'll

This is every bit as applicable to us as it is to our

have the level of protein, fat, fibre and carbohydrates

animals.

but nothing about its digestibility. Again lots of proprietary feeds have bulking agents like wheat, soya and more often than not these are GM – genetically modified. This term is widely used and just to explain a little about it as I understand it. When we hybridise/ genetically modify something we modify its DNA. The number of chromosomes may originally have been 12 or 16. When you hybridise it, it doubles, and each time you do this it doubles again, so you go from having a

Being more discerning about what we put into our bodies makes a difference down the line. The chronic inflammatory conditions that we see each day such as osteoarthritis are linked to the long-standing inflammation in the gut in my view. Tackling this early in play gives our pets and ourselves a better chance of a long, healthy life and has a role in the treatment of already established/diagnosed conditions.

very simple molecule that’s easy for the body to digest

The French have the equivalent saying albeit a little

to a much more complex one that the body finds

more graphic, 'We dig our graves with our teeth!'

extremely hard to digest.

Because we and the animals have a capacity to tolerate

The choice is ours, for ourselves and our very valued pets. Prevention is better than cure. 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

Page 64 - 2nd June 2021

SlaNey petS

CANINE CAPERS

Above: A fine day on Wexford Quays, 22nd May, Adrian, Bill, Joey and Claire Dunne with dog Poppy.

Above right: Eddie Carty of ‘Pawlished Pooches’ does an expert grooming job on the Slaney News ‘mascot’, Chico.

Right: On Wexford Quays was Michael de Fréine and his dog duo.

Below: Some kittens have made it onto our Canine page! Sooty & Sweep are being well cared for by Cllr George Lawlor on a recent visit by him to Cat Rescue Wexford.

2nd June 2021 - Page 65

SlaNey motoriNg

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

BMW 3 Series What happens when you mix plug-in hybrid power with the BMW 3 Series?

It’s a question very much worth exploring as the German brand continues to launch a slew of new electrified models on the Irish market.

The BMW 330e hybrid has proven its mettle in the 3 Series range, winning over its own quotient of buyers with its smooth petrol power and ability to plug in and charge up between drives, plus super low CO2 emissions meaning motor tax is just €140 per year.

In the new generation of the BMW 3 Series of course it’s ‘better’ all round.

They don’t release these cars without some improvements!

Let’s recap on a few of the basics first.

The BMW 3 Series range kicks off from €44,453 in Ireland for a petrol 318i, with a diesel 318d from €46,564 and the 320d range from €49,765. The 330e hybrid starts from €48,894.

handsome. Finished in Portimao Blue and bejewelled with the M Sport trim elements, our 330e test car was sporty, muscular, and sophisticated.

The BMW 330e uses a 2.0-litre four cylinder petrol engine, battery and electric motor. Power output is a formidable 292 hp while there is 420 Nm of torque to play with.

Inside the 3 Series has a wonderful interior that puts the driver competently in the centre of the action. This is a real driver’s car. Vernasca leather upholstery makes us feel comfortably executive, while the digital instrument panel, centre screen and iDrive system give the required touch of modernity. Material quality is excellent and this is a great car to spend time behind the wheel of!

The BMW 330e is handsome. Super

The junior executive saloon will seat five

BMW 3 Series

Mazda MX-30

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SlaNey motoriNg with good sized footwells in the rear, though a large transmission tunnel eats into legroom for a middle passenger. Boot space is compromised somewhat in the 330e plug-in hybrid however, down about 100 litres to 375 litres to accommodate the battery.

per 100 km. It takes between 3 and 6 hours to charge the battery to full, depending on the type of connection.

On the road, the 330e feels snappy and swift. Power delivery gets a professional finish. You wouldn’t expect anything less from a car wearing this badge.

The 330e is as happy to cruise as it is to take on some corners.

Rear wheel drive agility keeps things light and interesting behind the wheel. There’s plenty of grip and steering is direct. The set up is quite firm in this one, so rougher road surfaces do communicate more into the cabin. But on the smooth stuff, all is well.

Interior

Interestingly the car doesn’t feel quite as communicative in your hands as the 320d we tested previously. The electrified powertrain mutes the sensations somewhat. But the instant power delivery of the electric motor is immediately obvious.

Let’s not forget there is mighty wizardry at play here allowing you to slip this car into

electric mode and drive around on electric power alone for a range of up to 60 km.

The plug-in hybrid models in the new BMW 3 Series owe their increased electric range to the latest advances in battery cell technology. Their lithium-ion batteries, designed specifically for each model and manufactured by the BMW Group, have a gross energy content of 12.0 kWh. Using the electric range is best suited to low speed driving in town or short commutes, as the battery power will drain more rapidly at high speeds on the motorway for example. But I was lazy with the charging and still managed to post an impressive return on economy of 6.4 litres

BMW’s compact executive saloon gains even more power and flexibility in the 330e. The 330e gives options as we transition to more electrification. But even if you are not a frequent charger, the car performs like a decent petrol car on fuel. There is an impressive fluidity to this car on the road, aided by the electric motor. Maybe not quite as sharp as a 320d for example.

But it is a sporty car with a firm enough set up on the road. It’s indeed a beautiful car, particularly in M Sport trim.

We love the high quality interior, and that very meaty steering wheel. The 3 Series is a legend and deservedly so!

Model tested: BMW 3 Series 330e M Sport Price: €49,082 Engine: 2.0-litre petrol electric hybrid Power: 292 PS Torque: 420 Nm Top speed: 230 km/h Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 5.8 seconds CO2 emissions: 34 g/km Motor Tax: €140 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.

2nd June 2021 - Page 67

SlaNey motoriNg

Covid drives changes in the motor trade

Newly re-elected SIMI President Gillian Fanning

The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) says its members are optimistic after the first week of trading following the reopening of car showrooms. SIMI Retailers across the country, have reported steady flow in business, with an increase in enquiries for both new and used cars, and this should be reflected when the official new car registration numbers for the month of May are released. Customers should be re-assured when attending showrooms for test drives, with social distancing, car sanitation and other COVID safety protocols, all standard practice in SIMI dealerships.

Gillian Fanning, President of the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) commented, “The Motor Industry like many other industries has faced significant challenges over the past 15 months. To have all parts of our sector fully operational will help secure the continuation of many businesses, and safeguard local employment and the 40,000 employed nationally in our industry.

Recovery against Covid will clearly be driven by the vaccine rollout and while we face considerable uncertainty, pent-up demand and the accumulation of personal savings over the last year are reasons to be optimistic. It is hoped that some of these savings might translate into car sales, both new and used, in the months ahead, while the removal of the inter-county travel restrictions should increase the level of vehicle service business across the national fleet.”

Ms Fanning continued: “What’s become evident throughout this

Gillian Fanning (above) has been a Director of automotive business Serfac Limited since 2009. Serfac is a leading importer and distributor of quality premium brand automotive products to a broad customer base which includes motor factors, vehicle distributors, fleet owners and government departments.

An MBA graduate of DCU, Gillian is an experienced business, marketing and communications professional with over 20 years experience in leading blue-chip companies. Her career to date has also included communications, marketing and change management roles in consultancy and with Guinness, Diageo and Bank of Ireland.

pandemic is just how quickly businesses have adapted to changing circumstances. Companies have innovated in finding new solutions, new channels to bring offerings to market and new ways to build value for themselves and their customers. The use of digital platforms has helped to accelerate our industry into the digital space and online media has provided an important shop window for customers looking to buy a new or used car.”

Ms Fanning was recently re-elected to a second term in office, as President of the SIMI, at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held virtually. Gillian has extensive motor industry experience, serving as Marketing Director of national wholesale automotive distributor Serfac Limited, Chairperson of the SIMI Wholesalers’ Committee and as a member of the Society’s Management Board.

Speaking at the AGM, Ms Fanning thanked the members of the Society for allowing her the honour of being President and reminded members of the resilience of their industry which she looks forward to serving again in the coming year. n

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Join Bunclody’s Caroline Kidd every month for motoring news and reviews in the new-look Slaney News.

SlaNey leiSure

Happy 10th birthday Anthony!

Right: 10th Birthday of Anthony Fortune of Bridgemeadows, Enniscorthy, with sister Patricia and Mam Teresa.

Below: Celebrating Anthony Fortune’s 10th Birthday outdoors.

Anthony is pictured in the centre (orange t-shirt) with his cousin Ellie Whelan and his classmates.

2nd June 2021 - Page 69

SlaNey leiSure

A Glorious O A fashion series

With June just round the corner, as I write, we are all looking forward to the lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer, albeit it more in hope than certainty, after one of the wettest Mays on record.

with the warm, friendly smiles of our

And with Covid 19 vaccinations rolling along nicely and our shops open for business once again, an air of optimism and confidence abounds, creating a sense of excitement and goodwill in the town of Enniscorthy.

store right here in the centre of

How absolutely uplifting and elevating to the spirit it is, to be able to walk into our lovely boutiques and see, and touch, and feel the beautiful clothes on offer for Summer 21 and be met

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shop owners.

One of my favourites, Stoc, on Rafter Street, was a kaleidoscope of colour and a treasure trove of charm when I visited recently and is my ‘go to’ scarf Enniscorthy providing an amazing array of beautiful scarves at the most reasonable price of €12 each.

As I always say, a scarf can alter, uplift, revamp and embellish even the simplest outfit and you will not do better anywhere than Stoc.

It is always a pleasure to visit proprietors Kathy and Andre who are

SlaNey leiSure

Obsession

by Maria Nolan

Maria Nolan

joggers, skirts, tee-shirts and dresses all teamed with sneakers and bags.

This year’s joggers, probably the most comfortable pants to look stylish in, are worn with oversized vivid and/or embellished tops which are extremely eyecatching whilst hiding a multitude allowing you to stand out in the crowd for all the right reasons, how good is that.

This summer’s most on-trend, complete outfit, has to be, the dress. Either the

short shift dress in a block colour worn with scandals and draped with a mixcolour scarf and/or big jewellery, or the long floral print, waisted or busted, with or without belt, worn with white sneakers and your little denim-style jacket either in denim or in whatever colour best accentuates your dress, add a neutral shoulder bag and a straw hat to shield from those harmful ultra-violet rays and you’re good to go, shopping, racing, strolling, b-b-qing, meeting friends for coffee or wherever you want it to take you.

Stoc has a lovely variety of dresses in stock at the moment, so do pop in for a closer look.

Style is not what you buy or how much you pay for it, but rather how you put it together and make it yours and make it gel. n

providing cheerful and comfortable ladies clothing, accessories, and footwear at exceptional prices.

After the long, arduous winter we have come through, we are all in need of a bit of cheering up but, as we know only too well, our summer can be relatively short lived, so we do not want to part with a lot of money for many of our summer items that we may only wear for a couple of weeks, so the trick is to get optimum bang for your buck, go for this season’s trend – comfort and colour and Stoc has it all in abundance.

Choose from the vast array of corals, pinks, oranges, yellows, blues, lilacs, muted greens and neutrals in tops,

2nd June 2021 - Page 71

SlaNey leiSure

Lock It OR

Lose It!

In the Wexford Garda Division there were 48 bikes reported stolen in 2020 and 9 bikes this year to April 23rd.

Fourteen bikes were recovered in 2020 and two this year to 23rd April.

An Garda Síochána is reminding the public to take extra precautions in keeping their bicycles safe by locking them in the most secure way possible.

Since January 2020 up to April 23, 2021 a total of 6,845 bicycles have been stolen across the country, with An Garda Síochána recovering 2,139 bicycles.

Many cannot be returned to their owners as their serial numbers are not recorded.

Of the bicycles stolen since January 2020 only 1 in every 5 bike owners were able to provide their bicycle frame / serial number when reporting the theft to Gardaí. This causes problems reuniting bicycles with their owners.

An Garda Síochána has the following Crime Prevention advice to help owners protect their bikes from theft: •

Spend 10% to 20% of the value of your bike on two locks.

•

Lock your bike tightly to an immovable object.

•

Keep the lock off the ground.

•

When storing your bike at home in a shed or garage ensure it is locked to an immovable object or another heavy item e.g. a lawnmower.

•

Take a photo of your bike, note the serial number (which is usually located on the underside of your bike close to the pedals) and email it back to yourself or store it on the cloud so you have a record of it forever.

•

Lock your bike indoors or in well-lit areas if possible.

More people are cycling since the start of the pandemic and this is to be welcomed. Schemes like cycle to work

Page 72 - 2nd June 2021

offer great opportunities to those taking up cycling but it does mean people are investing in more expensive bikes.

Therefore, it makes sense to invest in quality locks to prevent bike theft. A good quality lock would involve spending 10% to 20% of the value of the bike on two locks. On average this would amount to €140/€150. When locking your bike ensure you secure it tightly to an immovable object and keep the lock off of the ground.

If your bike is stolen, report the theft to Gardaí as soon as you can, and ensure you have your serial number to hand if you have it. If you have had your bicycle stolen, you can now go onto the Garda website www.garda.ie or the Garda divisional Facebook pages to view bicycles that are currently in their property stores.

An Garda Síochána also wishes to remind the public that cyclists are regarded as vulnerable road users and motorists need to exercise care when encountering cyclists, alone or in groups. n

SlaNey leiSure

LOCKDOWN FAILS TO THWART WEXFORD MAN’S NEW ALBUM Ballycogley-based singer-songwriter Ian Barry was all set to release his third folk-rock album, entitled 26 Times Better, when the first Lockdown intervened, but he managed to turn the disappointment to good use. Now the completed album has emerged on his own label on the Bandcamp and Spotify platforms.

As Barry explains, “In a way the Lockdown gave me more time for reflection on the songs I’d written and recorded and I was able to do some fine-tuning here and there before wrapping it up.”

His family are never far away from his thoughts when he’s making music, and his wife Marion and sons Aidan and Pierce are featured humorously on the CD cover in a fine shot by noted Ballyhealy photographer Tom Dunne. While the title of Barry’s last album The Adventures of Angel, Slash and Gunga Din also affectionately referred to his family, there’s an equally cryptic explanation for the title of 26 Times Better. “The eleven new songs were written around the time Marion and I were approaching 26 years together.

Furthermore, when Marion exaggerates she uses the number 26. As in, 'If I've told you once, I've told you 26 times'”, he says. In fact one tune is actually called Marion’s Polka.

Recorded using the cream of Wexford musicians, 26 Times Better proves that songs about family relationships, domestic activities and local places can, in the hands of a skilled songwriter like Barry, fit seamlessly with those dealing with more universal topics. Ferrybank has obvious local connections, as is Dreaming of Skinstown, while Longside captures the atmosphere of a favoured place by the water.

Chocolate For Breakfast and Let’s Make God Laugh also reflect Barry’s finely-tuned sense of humour.

While many modern albums sound like a collection of disconnected

tracks, music industry insiders have applauded 26 Times Better as a complete musical experience. Apart from his songs, Barry himself handles vocal. guitars, bass, piano, bouzouki, and percussion, with sterling contributions from Mick Egan (producer and sound mixer), Trish Gallagher (flute, vocals), Derek Black (drums), Seamus O’Sullivan (piano), Cat Black (cajon), Risteard O'Dwyer on bass, Alice McIntyre on fiddle, Zacc McGloughlin (sax) and others.

The Bandcamp link is https://ianbarry.bandcamp.com/ For further information contact: Ian Barry at 086-390 0863 or ianjbarry@gmail.com n

Enniscorthy based singer-songwriter Hallie is over the mooon to have released her song Remedy which is now available on all major streaming platforms and receiving local and national airplay. https://songwhip.com/hallie/remedy Buy/Follow/Listen: https://ffm.bio/hallieishername Share, add to your playlists, follow Hallie’s pages: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ hallieishername https://ffm.bio/hallieishername https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=1GT8-OY2OzQ

2nd June 2021 - Page 73

SlaNey leiSure

Enniscorthy – Official Tour de France Cycle City

On 6th May last, Enniscorthy earned the distinction of becoming the first municipality outside of mainland Europe to receive Tour de France Cycle City designation.

Enniscorthy was a host town for a 1998 stage of the Tour de France and as such became eligible to apply for this prestigious label.

Other criteria included buy-in from the local municipality and to this end the Cycle City label is intended to double as a road map for towns and cities wishing to implement public policies to promote cycling as a leisure activity, as a competitive sport or as an everyday means of transport.

The submission to have Enniscorthy assigned an official Tour de France Cycle City label was a collaboration between Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Wexford Bicycle User Group (WexBUG), Re-Imagining Enniscorthy and other stakeholders, brought together by Barbara-Anne Murphy – Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District.

There was clear delight among the collaborators that the submission met the assessment criteria and that Enniscorthy was granted an official cycle city label!

Ger Mackey, Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager, played a key role in this

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application and the organising group looks forward to working with him to put the necessary cycling infrastructure in place throughout Enniscorthy where real tangible benefits of attaining this label can be achieved.

Here is what the judging panel said: “Enniscorthy, Ireland – A city suited for pleasant bike rides on recreational cycling routes, Enniscorthy recently unveiled a local policy that would help it become a more bike-friendly city.

District Council, WexBUG and ReImagining Enniscorthy.

This is a wonderful opportunity to put Enniscorthy at the heart of cycling in Ireland, both as a mode of transport and a sport enjoyed by so many enthusiasts.

Enniscorthy’s commitment to all forms of cycling is enhanced by the awarding of the Cycle City designation by the Tour de France.

The timing is great: the rerouting of the highway and the Flood Relief Scheme will create opportunities to increase biking accessibility in the city.

We look forward to working with all stakeholders to get the best out of this unique award and to create and facilitate more corridors of active travel. We especially look forward to welcoming cycling visitors this summer and beyond to Enniscorthy.

Enniscorthy also promotes sports related to cycling through local organisations and racing events.”

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Tour de France is a massive international brand, and to come under this umbrella has much potential in terms of accessing both state and EU funding in the future.’

Here’s how some people involved in the Tour de France cycle city submission reacted:

– Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

‘As Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District I am thrilled that Enniscorthy has been designated a Tour de France Cycle City.

‘I’ve always felt that Enniscorthy has never fully tapped in to the success of the 1998 Tour de France and I was thrilled when I saw the potential opportunity to put that right through the Tour de France Cycle City project.

Phil Skelton WexBUG brought the opportunity to my attention earlier this year and the application that was submitted was the result of collaboration between Enniscorthy Municipal

As well as being Chair of Wexford Bicycle User Group (WexBUG), I am also a longtime member of local club, Slaney Cycling

SlaNey leiSure Club, and this label presents so many possibilities for improving the offering for everyday cyclists along with sports and leisure cyclists.

Improvements for locals will automatically feed into a better offering for tourists.

With the recent growth in the number of ferries using Rosslare now, this also presents great opportunities to entice European sports and leisure cyclists through this convenient gateway.

According to Fáilte Ireland, 450,000 visitors to our shores participate in cycling while on holiday, which represents a threefold increase since 2009.

Cycle tourism is a massive business and having this cycle label can put Enniscorthy front and centre of this, and the rewards to the local hospitality sector can be reaped, not just for Enniscorthy itself but for surrounding towns and villages.

If we get this right, there will be cyclists from all over pouring over a map of cycle cities and we need to not only make Enniscorthy their destination of choice, but to give them the best possible experience when they get here and leave them wanting to return.

Let’s not waste this exciting opportunity!’

– Phil Skelton, Chair, Wexford Bicycle User Group (WexBUG) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ‘The awarding to Enniscorthy of the Tour de France Cycle City accreditation is perfectly timed as Wexford County Council has received funding to develop Transport Plans for Enniscorthy, including development of a Cycling Strategy for the town under the National Transport

Authority’s “Active Travel” programme.

This will encourage our local Enniscorthy community to use bicycles as an alternative to cars for travel to work and school, and to encourage more cycling by locals and visitors for leisure and exercise.

As part of the Tour de France accreditation, we plan to set up a cycling monitoring group, Active Cycling Enniscorthy (ACE) which will include a cross-section of local residents and active cyclists, supported by the Wexford County Council.

The intention of ACE will be to advise on the development and implementation of the Cycling Strategy for Enniscorthy, promote safe cycling, and encourage initiatives to increase cycling in our town.’

– Dervla Tierney, Re-Imagining Enniscorthy –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ‘Visit Wexford, the tourism destination brand established to promote and champion tourism within Wexford County, is very pleased that Enniscorthy has been selected as a Tour de France Cycle City, the only town in Ireland so included.

The growth of cycling clearly aligns with the Enniscorthy Tourism Strategy that has been developed with Fáilte Ireland, and the County Wexford Tourism Strategy.

The Enniscorthy Tourism Strategy is focused on strengthening visitor experiences, particularly in the culturally curious segment, and in developing access to the heritage sites of Enniscorthy, including the castle and Vinegar Hill battlefield site, where additional cycling infrastructure is planned by Wexford County Council. Visit Wexford is promoting cycling and will

include the Tour de France award in our social media campaigns, which are currently underway.’

– Colm Neville, Director of Visit Wexford –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ‘Enniscorthy Chamber of Commerce and its members are excited at the inclusion of Enniscorthy as a Tour de France Cycle City.

We in the Chamber are working with Wexford County Council to encourage the infrastructural developments that will further facilitate cycling in Enniscorthy.

Our members support better cycling access to the centre of the town as part of the traffic management plans that are currently being developed.’

– Jimmy Gahan, Enniscorthy Chamber of Commerce –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ’We in St Mary’s CBS are delighted that Enniscorthy has been accredited as a Tour de France Cycle City.

St Mary’s CBS has recently been awarded the School Ambassador badge recognising the involvement of our Transition Year students in the HEADSTRONG Programme “Cycle Against Suicide”, which promotes mental health through cycling. We are very supportive of all efforts that encourage our students to use bicycles to travel to and from school.

It is understandable that many parents are concerned about their children’s safety around cycling as busy roads surround our school and it would be wonderful if those roads could be upgraded to take account of cyclists.’

– John Ryan, Principal, CBS Enniscorthy

Members of Slaney Cycling Club at the Tour de France bronze sculpture in Enniscorthy. Phil Skelton, Chair, Wexford Bicycle User Group (WexBUG) is in the back row immediately to the right of the statue.

Pic: Ken Hayes.

2nd June 2021 - Page 75

SlaNey leiSure

Candy Tours – Back in ac Monday 12th to Thursday 15th July

Saturday 7th August

TOUR TO BEAUTIFUL CONNEMARA

TOUR TO THE OLD BOG ROAD AND LEDWIDGE MUSEUM

Peacockes Hotel is a beautiful refurbished hotel in the heart of Connemara boasting a viewing tower where one can view the Maamturk Mountains and the Connemara countryside. There is a replicia “White O Morn” cottage on the site as a reminder of The Quiet Man film. Candy Tours have booked the entire rooms in the hotel. Each evening you can relax beside the turf fire with the smell of peat burning and a pint in your hand. We will of course visit Cong and the Quiet Man Museum and also Clifden town – the capital of Connemara. We will also have a full tour of the Dan O’Hara Cottage and all the history that goes with it.

Cost: €390pps. Single Supplement €90.

Your Tour Includes: Coach Transportation, Hotel Accomodation, 3 Full Irish Breakfasts, 3 Evening Meals, Entry Fee to the “Quiet Man Museum”, Entry Fee to Dan O’Hara Cottage and all day tours.

Pickup Points: Enniscorthy: 9.30am.

Bunclody: 10.00am. Ballon: 10.30am.

Askea: 11.00am.

Today we will visit “The Old Bog Road”.

Perhaps the most famous of all Irish Ballads was written about this place in North Kildare by Teresa Brayton (nee Boylan). Teresa was born near Kilcock in 1868, went to school in Enfield and emigrated to Boston in 1895. She married a French Canadian named Richard Brayton. She also penned some other wonderful ballads i.e. Ireland Speaks, The Croppies Grave, The Land Where Fairies Play and of course the song that was recorded by many artists like Johnny McEvoy, Josef Locke, Hank Locklin and many more – The Old Bog Road. After our visit to the old bog road we will visit Teresa Brayton’s grave in Cloncurry Cemetery.

We will also visit the Francis Ledwidge Museum in Slane (housed in the cottage where he was born). Francis was a soldier and a poet from Co. Meath who was killed in World War I in 1917. He penned some wonderful poetry during his short life, before being killed two weeks short of his 30th birthday.

The full story will be told by John Candy of Candy Tours on the day, of his illfated love affair with Ellie Vaughey who is laid to rest on top of the hill of Slane which we will also visit on the day.

We will return to the Seven Oaks Hotel for Dinner.

Peacockes Hotel

Cost: €80pps.

Your Tour Includes: Coach Transportation, Entry Fee to Francis Ledwidge Museum and Dinner.

Saturday 24th July

DAY TOUR TO MOUNT MELLERAY ABBEY AND GROTTO This day tour takes us to Mount Melleray in Cappoquin, Co. Waterford.

Located at the foot of the Knockmealdown Mountains, this beautiful Cistercian Abbey is a place of prayer and meditation.

Mount Melleray boasts some of the finest stained-glass windows of Ireland. We will visit the Grotto during our visit for some prayer and meditation also. A peaceful place to relax and enjoy.

Due to the huge success of this tour in 2019, many people have already booked their place for 2021.

We will begin our day with Breakfast in Arboretum Garden Centre, Leighlinbridge.

Cost: €90.

Your Tour Includes: Coach Transportation, Breakfast in Arboretum, Tea/Coffee/Scone in Mount Melleray and Dinner in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel.

Pickup Points: Enniscorthy: 8.00am. Bunclody: 8.30am.

Ballon: 8.50am. Askea: 9.10am.

Pickup Points: Enniscorthy: 9.00am. Bunclody: 9.30am. Ballon: 9.50am.

Askea: 10.15am.

Sunday 19th and Monday 20th September

PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK SHRINE Knock is known all over the world since 1879 when Mary, Mother of Jesus, St. Joseph and St. John the Evangelist appeared in a vision before 15 people from the village of Knock.

Since then the village has been a centre of pilgrimage, drawing over a million pilgrims annually.

We will be staying in the Breaffy House Hotel in Castlebar on Sunday night where we will have dinner in the restaurant. On Monday after breakfast we will depart the hotel and have a few hours to explore the Marian Shrine and Knock Village.

We will leave Knock on Monday evening at 1.00pm approx.

We will have a comfort stop at the Creggan Court Hotel in Athlone and then return to our original pickup points.

Cost €140pp.

Single Supplement €30.

Your Tour Includes: Coach Transportation, Hotel Accommodation, 1 Full Irish Breakfast, 1 Evening Meal.

Pickup Points: Enniscorthy: 9.00am.

Bunclody: 9.30am.

Ballon: 10.00am.

Askea: 10.20am.

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SlaNey leiSure

ction!

Bennekerry, Co. Carlow. Tel: 087 263 2324.

Email: info@candytours.ie https://candytours.ie

Monday 4th to Thursday 7th October

Friday 19th to Sunday 21st November

STORYTELLERS TOUR TO KILLARNEY

ABBEY COURT HOTEL NENAGH This is a 3-Day Tour to the Abbey Court Hotel and Leisure Centre.

Castleross Hotel Killarney Once again as we hit October our thoughts turn to our annual “Storytellers Tour” and after thinking long and hard as to where we would travel this year and after asking some of our regular customers it came down to our favourite destination “Killarney”. There is never a dull moment in the tourist capital of Ireland. This year we will take on the beautiful Ring of Beara and weather permitting we will cross the famous Tim Healy pass on our way to the lovely harbour village of Kilmackillogue where we will indulge in Salmon Sandwiches that you won’t find elsewhere. We will stop awhile in beautiful Glengarrif in West Cork with its cafés, shops and relaxed way of life. Back in Killarney we will once again visit Muckross House and Gardens, Kate Kearney’s Cottage, St Mary’s Cathedral and this year we will have a boat trip on Lough Leane. We will be staying in the lovely Castleross Hotel on the Killorglin Road. Why not join Candy Tours for a never to be forgotten holiday.

Candy Tours had two tours in 2019 to The Abbey Court Hotel and such was the response to both tours we have no hesitation in once again spending a Abbey Court Hotel few days in Nenagh.

The Abbey Court has a Leisure Centre, Swimming Pool, Steam Room etc. for your pleasure and Candy Tours will as usual have the residents lounge booked each evening for our entertainment, so anyone who can play music, sing, recite, or even tell a few lies!! will be most welcome to join us.

Those who travelled to the Abbey Court for the last two years will vouch for the quality food and excellent service we received.

Cost: €240pps. Single Supplement: €60.

Cost €390pps. Single Supplement €90.

Your Tour Includes: Coach Transportation, Hotel Accommodation, 2 Full Irish Breakfasts, 2 Evening Meals and Entertainment each night.

Your Tour includes: Coach Transportation, 3 Nights Accommodation, 3 Full Irish Breakfasts, 3 Evening Meals, Tea/Coffee and Sandwiches in Killmackillogue, Boat Trip on Lough Leane and all day tours.

Pickup Points: Enniscorthy: 9.30. Bunclody: 10.00am. Ballon: 10.20am.

Askea: 10.45am.

Pickup Points: Enniscorthy: 9.00am. Bunclody: 9.30am. Ballon: 10.00am.

Bennekerry: 10.30am.

Saturday 27th November

CANDY TOURS PARTY NIGHT

Saturday 6th November

NEWRY SHOPPING TRIP This is a Christmas shopping trip to Newry City. A fantastic opportunity to visit the Buttercrane Shopping Centre and The Quay’s Shopping Centre with all the leading stores e.g. Marks & Spencer, Penneys, Dunnes Stores and many more. All you need for this trip is a credit card and lots of cash. Book early as this tour will fill up quickly.

As 2021 is coming to a close, we at Candy Tours wish to thank all our fellow travellers for your support throughout 2021. We will finish our year with a really good Party Night in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel. Dinner will be at 7.00pm followed by Music and Dancing with Theresa and The Stars from 8.30pm to 11.00pm.

Free spot prizes throughout the night:

Cost €30pp.

Free Coach Pickups: Enniscorthy 5.30pm. Bunclody 6.00pm.

Ballon 6.20pm, to arrive at Hotel at 6.45pm.

Your Tour Includes: Coach Transportation.

Cost: €40pp.

Pickup Points: Enniscorthy: 7.00am. Bunclody 7.30am. Ballon 7.50am.

Askea 8.15am.

Tickets: Available at Hotel reception 059 9142002 or John Candy 087 2632324.

Buttercrane Shopping Centre

Woodford Dolmen Hotel

2nd June 2021 - Page 77

SlaNey leiSure

Rowing - a sport for all

Are you interested in trying a new sport? If so, rowing could be the one you have been looking for!

Edermine Ferry Rowing Club, based at Edermine, just outside Enniscorthy, has just started its new season of rowing. Rowing is a fun, healthy sport that is suitable for all ages. New membership is always welcome, so if you or your children would like to try rowing, whether as a leisure activity or with a view to competing, why not go along to one of the friendly training sessions – no experience is necessary as full training is given. At present, training is on Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights from 7pm at Edermine.

Senior crew of Richie O’Neill, Cathryn O’Leary, Declan Geraghty, Terry Doherty and cox Josh Martin.

At Edermine, Enniscorthy, 14th May 2021.

Left: Some of the Edermine Ferry junior ladies ready for the off, Rose Geraghty, Sarah O'Leary, Moira Grimes and Emer Foley.

Right: In the traditional Slaney Cot are rowers, Liz Ivers, Marie Kinsella, Carmel Devereux, Bernie O'Leary and cox Richard O'Neill.

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If you would like to find out more please email edermineferry@yahoo.ie, or contact the club secretary on 087-6301350, or check the ‘Edermine Ferry’ Facebook page.

Please note: Due to current restrictions it is necessary to book in for a rowing session, so please email or contact the secretary in advance.

SlaNey leiSure

Edermine Ferry crews on the scenic Slaney

Top: Emer Foley, Orla Cunnea, Daniel Nolan, Tom O'Sullivan, Sinéad Kinsella (cox).

Above: Joe Carley (cox), Josh Martin, Sinéad Kinsella, Richard O'Neill, Paddy Carley.

Main photo: Coastal Four & Slaney Cot on the water.

Bottom: Joe Carley (cox), Carol Crosbie, Deirdre Bowers-Kavanagh, Áine O'Meara, Carmel Devereux.

2nd June 2021 - Page 79

SlaNey leiSure

Hoolie's Lockdown Lock-In supports Cystic Fibrosis

An opinionated podcast!

Enniscorthy’s Jamie Murphy and Bunclody’s Blayne Hosey are not shy when it comes to offering their opinions on all manner of subjects. So they have developed a podcast series to help voice those opinions on an unsuspecting public! To date the duo have done seven podcasts under the apt series title ‘The Opinion You Didn’t Ask For Podcast’.

Available wherever you get your podcasts.

The duo describe it as, “A Podcast to help you unwind after work but also to have a good laugh with too. More patchy than a teenager’s beard, but as wholesome as your granny's brown bread.“ Expect some explicit material and then sit back, relax and enjoy a half hour or more per episode. The latest podcast in the series entitled ‘Don’t Interfere With Crisps’ sounds tasty! n

Hoolie's Lockdown Lock-In's first birthday is fast approaching.

Hard to believe it! To celebrate, Niall Holohan and the Lock-In team want to give back to those in need. So, on Saturday, June 5th, they're holding a ‘65 Roses’ fundraiser show in aid of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. It promises to be a fantastic night of music.

Please give now what you can to their Facebook fundraiser: https://www.facebook.com/HolohansPub/posts/401866719 4885962 Alternatively, you can donate via Paypal here: https://www.paypal.me/HolohansCFIShow Email: Holohanslockdownlockin@gmail.com The event is available on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/events/988051298668190/ Don’t forget to tune in on June 5th! n

Musicians need timeline Johnny Mythen TD is calling on the government to specify a clear timeline for the live music gigs sector to return to hospitality settings such as hotels, bars, pubs and arts venues.

Deputy Mythen says, ‘It has now been 14 months since most musicians and balladeers have played to a live audience. Live music is not just an enjoyable and traditional outlet, it is a livelihood for many people. In most cases these musicians have received no Restart Grants or CRSS because they have no rateable premises, and some part-time musicians are not eligible to apply for PUP. In many ways they have been left behind by this government for a period far too long.

'The recent announcement by the government to open pubs, albeit on a limited basis, but with additional and mixed guidelines from Fáilte Ireland 'not allowing' live music, has caused many entertainers to despair, between families to care for, and bills to be paid, many are considering selling off their gear. We can't allow this to happen, these musicians need a hand.

'A contingency plan must be specifically prepared for the music industry. On the same basis as the publicans and SMEs, the musicians and performers need clarity regarding when and how they can return to work again, especially in small live music venues, which for many are their bread and butter.’ n

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Ben Turner entertaining the public on Rafter Street, Enniscorthy

SlaNey leiSure Pic: Marie Hayes

Grab your camera!

Clean Coasts’ 12th annual Love Your Coast photography competition is now open for entries. Capture the uniqueness of our coastal communities, environments, or waterways and you have until 9am on 30th August 2021 to submit your best

Grab your camera and get snapping around County Wexford as Clean Coasts’ ‘Love Your Coast’ photography competition is open for entries.

images. Last year’s The Mighty Hook

by Marie Hayes and Clearing Mist by David Valentine were entries taken in Co. Wexford that came third in the Coastal Heritage and second in the Coastal Landscape categories respectively.

With some of the most spectacular coastlines in the world, make sure you bring your camera as you explore the Irish coast this summer and capture its beauty. There is a prize fund of €5,000 up for grabs across five categories: Coastal Heritage, Coastal Landscape, People & the Coast, Wildlife & the Coast and, finally, a new category Creativity and the Coast.

receives pictures that transcend

Love Your Coast competition aims to celebrate Ireland’s diverse waters by capturing its stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, epic cliff faces, and raging rivers.

The competition was launched last month with an online event “Behind the Lens - A Photographer’s Perspective”

categories or labels and are simply stun-

which had some of the top photogra-

ning pieces of art in their own right. So

phers over the years chatting about

the organisers want to take the oppor-

some of their top submissions and the

tunity to facilitate the creatives amongst

stories behind them.

us to showcase their capacity to create

Working with communities on the

beauty and joy with this new category.

ground, Clean Coasts’ mission is to help

Every year this competition draws a large

foster pride in our coastline, supporting

amount of interest from Ireland’s amateur

Clean Coasts communities, groups,

photographers, coastal enthusiasts, and the conservation-minded. There is a diverse range of categories ensuring there is something for everyone. This year across all the categories the Judges are also encouraging photographers to explore new methods and angles in

and volunteers to tackle issues affecting their local area. This competition provides an opportunity to view the coast and our waterways that the Clean Coasts programme works to protect from a completely different perspective and see the beauty captured therein.

capturing the coastal regions and wildlife

Visit Clean Coasts to find out more about

The competition receives thousands of

and would discourage photographing of

the competition and how to enter:

entries that fit happily into the existing

locations and species that have been

https://cleancoasts.org/our-

categories, but the competition also

heavily submitted in previous years. The

initiatives/love-your-coast/ n

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Plus All-Ireland fixtures ???

SlaNey Sport

Rapparees/ Starlights GAA Update Recent Government announcements regarding the relaxation of some of Covid 19 restrictions were met with joyous anticipation at Bellefield GAA as match-starved supporters of Rapparees/Starlights look forward to seeing some of the on-field action up close and personal over the summer months.

With All County Leagues due to commence with Round 1 of the Football over the weekend of 12th/13th June, closely followed by the first Round of the Hurling the weekend of 19th/20th June (see League fixtures in this article), it’s all hands on deck at the Bellefield grounds as everyone prepares for the first encounters of the 2021 season.

Weekend June 12/13th June: ACFL Round 1.

Weekend June 19th /20th: ACHL Round 1.

Midweek June 22nd, 23rd June: ACFL Round 2.

Weekend June 26th, 27th: ACHL Round 2.

Weekend July 3rd, 4th: ACFL Round 3.

Weekend July 10th, 11th: ACHL Round 3.

Weekend July 17th, 18th: ACFL Round 4.

Midweek July 20th, 21st: ACHL Round 4.

Weekend July 24th, 25th: ACFL Round 5.

Enniscorthy Ladies Golf There was a great turn out for the Tuesday competition on 18th May, with everyone happy to be back after a long lockdown. The weather held up well for the morning but by mid afternoon thunder and lightning meant that a number of competitors were unable to finish. Disappointing for them, hopefully better summer weather is on the way!

Results for Tuesday 18th May, 18 Hole Ladies Team of 3: 1st Lori Whitney, Anna Mai O'Connor, Kathleen Walsh, 77pts back 9.

2nd Stellah Sinnott, Margaret Mooney, Marie Dunphy, 77 pts back 3.

3rd Aine O'Connell, Nicola Jacob, Anne

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Harvey, 77pts back 9.

9 Hole Team of 3: 1st Marie Dunphy, Deirdre Bowler, Bernie Butler, 35 pts.

Ladies 4 Ball Betterball 25th May 2021: Competition Sponsor: Creane and Creane 1st Catherine Lawless, Margaret Crotty, 40 pts.

2nd Margaret Mooney, Catriona Hogan, 39 pts.

9 Hole: 1st Catherine Askins 14 pts, Last 6.

2nd Margaret O'Connor, 14 pts.

Well done to all and a big thank you to the event sponsors. n

Weekend July 31st, Aug. 1st: ACHL Round 5.

June Fixtures: 12th June, Division 1B, Starlights V Naomh Eanna @ 7.30pm in Bellefield.

13th June, Division 2B, Starlights V Cloughbawn @7pm in Cloughbawn.

19th June, Division 1A, Rapparees V Oylegate @ 7.30pm in Oylegate.

20th June, Division 2A, Rapparees V Shamrocks @ 7pm in Bellefield.

22nd June, Division 1B, Starlights V St. Martins @ 8pm in Piecestown.

23rd June, Division 2B, Starlights V St. Martins @ 8pm in Bellefield.

26th June, Division 1A , Rapparees V Glynn/Barntown @ 7.30pm in Killurin.

27th June, Division 2A, Rapparees V Tara Rocks @ 8pm in Bellefield.

Meanwhile, training for every grade and every age group is continuing at Bellefield, evenings Monday to Friday, and Saturday morning our Rapps/Stars nursery is in full swing from 10am.

Our weekly lotto takes place every Monday night at the clubhouse under strict Covid guidelines from 9pm, tickets are available online or through Ronie Furlongs, McSorleys, Greenville Stores, Gala and the Bus Stop Shop.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our loyal customers for their continued support of the club and we hope to be in a position to begin our Drive-In Bingo from Wednesday 9th June.

– Maria Nolan PRO

SlaNey Sport

Moore ready to return to action Wexford’s Brian Moore is a 33-year-old professional MMA (mixed martial arts) fighter with an impressive record behind him. Nicknamed ‘The Pikeman’, the Wexford man’s record stands at 13-7-0 (Win-Loss-Draw) with victories in his last two fights, the most recent being in Oct 2020.

On 7th May he was due to take to the cage in Connecticut, USA, against Erik Perez on the Bellator 258 fight night at bantamweight 135 lbs (61.2 kg). But unfortunately Moore tested positive for Covid in April so the fight had to be postponed.

Moore has just signed a new multi-fight deal with Bellator, and having fully recovered from Covid he says, “I'm now back... and ready to make a run for the 135lb belt.” n

You can follow Brian Moore on Facebook here

Enniscorthy Rugby

Wexford race meetings

Tag Rugby for all club members and friends will commence on Friday 11th June continuing on each Friday night for June/July.

All covid restrictions will be complied with. Please arrive togged out as dressing rooms will not be in use. The club extends its thanks to the management of Pettitt's Enniscorthy for their sponsorship of prizes for this event.

Wexford Race Meetings for the rest of 2021 are scheduled for the following dates: Fri 9th April (e), Sat 15th May, Fri 21st May (e), Wed 2nd June, Wed 16th June (e), Fri 2nd July (e), Fri 6th August (e), Sat 4th September, Sun 24th October, Mon 25th October (e) denotes Evening Meet. http://www.wexfordraces.ie n

The Enniscorthy Rugby Club Golf Classic is scheduled for Friday 27th August at Enniscorthy Golf Club.

In relation to senior training – the men are training on Wednesday nights at 7.30pm and the women on Friday nights. n

Enniscorthy Hockey AGM

Located just behind the new Enniscorthy Lidl

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Enniscorthy Hockey Club will be held on Friday 4th June 2021 at 7.00pm.

The Zoom meeting link is being shared with members this week. Please note that nomination forms for the Committee and Section Coordinators have already been circulated, with the deadline for nominations due on the 3rd of June.

If you have any questions ahead of the AGM, please contact enniscorthyhockeysec@gmail.com n

Hillbrook Lawn Tennis Club, Enniscorthy, reopened on 26th April. New members welcome.

The club asks that all members familiarise themselves with the protocols detailed by Tennis Ireland.

Membership Fees: Family: €350. Single: €220 Student: €60 (proof of being in full-time education must be provided). Junior < 18yrs: €25 For further information email hillbrooktennisclub@gmail.com n

GYM REOPENING 8th JUNE Gym Reopening Special Offer: 6 weeks gym membership for only €40: Includes FREE: Individual fitness assessment – Gym induction Personalised fitness programme Full gym details here: http://www.kilcannon.ie/astroactive/astro-active-gym-membership/

Website: www.astroactive.ie Email: astroactivetl@cwcwe.ie Also check our Facebook page

2nd June 2021 - Page 83

SlaNey artS & heritage

Above: Enniscorthy Library opened its doors again on 10th May 2021. Librarian Jarlath Glynn (left) and Library Assistant Caroline Waters (right) welcome you back.

Left: Enniscorthy Library Assistant Elaine Byrne attends to library user Frances Earle.

Enniscorthy Library – delighted to be open again

Library spaces are open for browsing during normal opening hours. You can: • Visit your local library and select items for yourself and your family. Recommended: a visit of 30 minutes or less.

• “Contact and collect”. Library staff will pick a bag of up to 6 books/DVDs/CDs in your chosen genre/subject and will let you know when they are available for you.

• Order your favourite books online. You will be texted when they are ready for collection.

• Printing can be emailed from home and collected during opening hours. Limited scanning and photocopying facilities are available.

• Until further notice, computer and study facilities are not available.

• Return items by dropping them in the returns bin. n

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SlaNey artS & heritage

Enniscorthy Library likes...

Welcome to our new ‘Librarian Likes’ series where the knowledgeable staff at Enniscorthy Library share some of their recent reads and favourite titles.

This month, Tina has picked The House at Riverton by bestselling author Kate Morton.

Summer 1924: On the eve of a glittering society party, by the lake of a grand English country house, a young poet takes his life. The only witnesses, sisters Hannah and Emmeline Hartford, will never speak to each other again.

Winter 1999: Grace Bradley, 98, onetime housemaid of Riverton Manor, is visited by a young director making a film about the poet's suicide. Ghosts awaken and memories, long-consigned to the dark reaches of Grace's mind, begin to sneak back through the cracks. A shocking secret threatens to emerge;

something history has forgotten but Grace never could.

A thrilling mystery and a compelling love story, The House at Riverton will appeal to readers of Ian McEwan's Atonement, L.P. Hartley's The Go-Between, and lovers of the film Gosford Park.

I read this novel as an ebook on my BorrowBox App. Though Kate Morton is a well-known and prolific author (The Forgotten Garden, The Distant Hours, The Secret Keeper, The Lake House), I had not read any of her books, so it seemed fitting to start with her debut novel. Now that I have, my store-cupboard is full, and all I need is time to read…

“I fell deeply in love with books as a child and believe that reading is freedom; that to read is to live a thousand lives in one; that fiction is a magical conversation between two people – you and me – in which our minds meet across time and space.” – Kate Morton.

The ‘magical conversation’ we begin in The House at Riverton is filtered through

Kate Morton

Grace, a servant, and we meet all the other characters through her observations.

I love this aspect of the novel! In all the intimate interactions that occur in a group of people living together in one house, we never forget there is a dividing line between them – upstairs and downstairs.

At times this shocks us, as we (with our modern eyes) think we see friendship in the closeness of Grace and Hannah, but time after time we are sharply reminded of the gulf between them. I think this is more true-to-life (and to history) than some of the recent screen adaptations we have seen.

I loved this story! The mystery is intriguing, pulling us along, teasing us with crumbs along the way. Several times I thought I had guessed the secrets (yes, more than one!) only to uncover another twist, another turn in the plot. How delicious!

It is a rich and engrossing novel of love, passion, secrets and lies. It captures the heart and the imagination. I highly recommend it. n

Enniscorthy Library - Lymington Road - Phone: 053 9236055 enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthylibrary 2nd June 2021 - Page 85

SlaNey artS & heritage

A treasure trove of Wexford history For those interested in our county’s history, there’s lots of great material to be found on the internet. We highlight a couple of interesting pieces on this page.

Podcast: ‘Wexford in the Revolutionary Decade’ Wexford County Council commissioned History Ireland Hedge School to produce a podcast which discusses historical events in Wexford from 1916 to 1923. The podcast is available on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/ 48tcAOVruOSIaBrkEMmlQD and History Ireland: https://www.historyireland.com/ podcast-channel/l.

Listen to History Ireland editor, Tommy Graham, in discussion with Bernard Browne, Ida Milne, William Murphy and Kevin Whelan.

The panelists are eminent historians and have all published books in relation to this period in history. Bernard, Ida and Kevin also originally hail from County Wexford. n

The burning of Wexford’s ‘big houses’ Join Wexford-based historian, Dan Walsh, for his presentation on the burning of Wexford's 'Big Houses' during the War of Independence and the Civil War, 1921-1923.

This talk has been produced for Wexford

County Council Public Library Service and the Commemorations Unit of Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media under the Decade of Centenaries 2012-2023 initiative. https://youtu.be/Xfv0yhBeZHM n

For lots more local history, including Oral History Interviews, check out the ‘Wexford Public Libraries’ YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/ WexfordPublicLibraries

The Centenary edition (No.34) of ‘The Past’ – the Journal of the Uí Cinsealaigh Historical Society – has sold out in some local bookshops.

Some copies may still be available in Easons in Enniscorthy, Wexford and Gorey, and in the Book Centre, Wexford and the Book Café, Gorey. Check it out.

The talk is available now on the ‘Wexford Public Libraries’ YouTube Channel at this link: https://youtu.be/Xfv0yhBeZHM

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The book will be of interest to anyone with even a passing curiosity about our local history and of interest also to the wider Wexford diaspora.

SlaNey artS & heritage

Exploring our Maritime heritage Chief Executive of Wexford County Council Tom Enright is delighted with a new publication on the Maritime Heritage of Waterford Estuary, saying, “It’s very welcome and timely. The Waterford Estuary has a unique and fascinating history and natural heritage, the story of which should to be told to a much wider audience. The compilation of information in this book should help to draw attention and funding opportunities to the potential to develop the estuary and surrounding area while at the same time preserving and protecting its wonderful natural and built assets.”

Written by Marine Resource Economist Dr Naomi Foley, the report gives a full account of how the villages on both the Wexford and Waterford sides of the estuary became such vital cogs in the trading success of Waterford City and the wider Southeast, and laterally how fishing became central to the villages’ economic wellbeing.

New Heritage Officer appointed

In commissioning and championing this report, Port of Waterford wishes to acknowledge the role Cheekpoint, Passage East, Duncannon, Dunmore East, Ballyhack and Arthurstown played in the Port’s development over the generations.

The full report can be viewed at www.portofwaterford.com

Local Authority Heritage Officers play a key role in promoting heritage awareness, developing policy and providing advice and information on local as well as national heritage issues. The recent appointment of Catherine McLoughlin as Heritage Officer at Wexford County Council has been widely welcomed.

County Heritage Officers are employed by Local Authorities in partnership with the Heritage Council under the auspices of the Heritage Officer Programme, which was initiated in 1999.

Heritage Officers aim to promote enhanced levels of understanding, conservation and preservation by improving the status and perception of heritage in their local area. Some of the principal areas addressed by Heritage Officers include: Local Heritage Plans  Advice and Information for Local Authority Staff  Heritage Appraisal  Data Collection Liaison  Public Relations  Public Consultation Strategies, Policies and Projects.

Among those welcoming the appointment are former Councillor Sean Doyle who moved a Notice of Motion at a Wexford County Council meeting many years ago seeking the employment of a Heritage Officer. It was passed unanimiously but only now has an appointment been made. According to Sean Doyle, “A Heritage Officer is essential before any more of our heritage is destroyed.”

Also welcoming the new Heritage Officer, Gorey Councillor Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin said, “It’s been a long battle – 6 years since I first proposed the motion, but today I'm delighted that Co. Wexford has its first ever Heritage Officer!” n

2nd June 2021 - Page 87

SlaNey artS & heritage

Online art exhibitions

with Mari a Nolan

Book Review: The Moon Over Kilmore Quay The Moon Over Kilmore Quay is Carmel Harrington’s 9th novel and I say without hesitation her best to date.

I have enjoyed all of Carmel’s books but The Moon Over Kilmore Quay has a charm all of its own and will speak to the heart of Carmel’s extensive readership as well as to the hearts of all those who have emigrated from these shores and all those left behind.

I am of a vintage to remember the Morrison Visas and those who left Ireland on the strength of them, and perhaps for the very first time in Irish emigration history, it was confident, educated Irish people who were leaving for adventure and to broaden their horizons rather than the age-old reasons of poverty, starvation and unemployment.

I recall the excitement of those who were successful in their applications and the disappointment of those who weren’t and Carmel Harrington captures all of this and more as we follow the story of sisters Maeve and Lucy Mernagh, from the quiet, little village of Kilmore Quay to the bright lights and bustling streets of the Big Apple and the brownstone houses of Brooklyn.

Carmel has a real feel for both places, and their varying qualities and attributes shine equally bright throughout the story, making the reader wish to be in one place one moment and then almost immediately in the other.

Carmel again capturing the exact crux of how it was for many an Irish emigrant of the time, loving the glamour, excitement and anonymity of New York yet longing for the familiarity, warmth, and traditions of home. Often caught between the two and perhaps never totally fulfilled in either and The Moon Over Kilmore Quay gets the very essence of emigration just right.

For online exhibitions at Enniscorthy’s Presentation Centre see: https://www.presentationcentre.ie/curr entexhibitions.html and make sure to check out the Keep Sketch! virtual sketching group’s work there also. n

Arts call The organisers of the 2021 Imagine Arts Festival in Waterford are offering an exciting opportunity for three artists or three groups of artists, to present a ‘work in progress’ at the festival this October.

Carmel Harrington

The reader is instantly drawn to the two main characters, Bea and Lucy, and the ties that bind them together. No one does family and friends better than Carmel Harrington, as she draws us in, we begin to feel part and parcel of both the O’Connor and Mernagh families, and it is almost a personal shock to the reader as their dark secrets are revealed.

Her supporting characters of grandparents, lovers and friends appeal to all of us, everyone would want to live at Innisfree with gran and grandad O’Connor and New York’s finest, Uncle Mike, and half the Irish population of Brooklyn, and we would all love to have friends or amigos like the vivacious and outspoken Katrina of Serbian extraction and the gullible but lovable Stephanie, and who wouldn’t want lovers like Ryan and Dan, but just as we are basking in the warm glow of all that’s good and wholesome, Carmel cleverly inserts Jimmy Del Torio and Ted Spadoni to give us a jolt of reality and perhaps prepare us slightly for the twists and turns that are about to come.

Expertly done, The Moon Over Kilmore Quay, is a joy from beginning to end. I read it in just four sittings as I hungered for more and more of the story of Bea and Lucy and all who knew them.

Carmel Harrington’s writing just gets better and better, she is a natural storyteller and writes just as if she was talking to you.

The Moon Over Kilmore Quay is particularly beautifully written as Carmel draws on many of her own happy childhood memories among her own here in Wexford, coupled with her continuing love affair with New York and will, I have no doubt, resonate with Irish people and emigrants everywhere.

Will you need tissues – most definitely – it’s a Carmel Harrington for godsake!

– Maria Nolan

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The Arts Department of Wexford County Council in association with Wexford Arts Centre are pleased to host online Whatever – the bi-annual Arts Ability initiative. Check out https://artsability.ie/home/

Festival Manager Nora Boland says, “We are currently accepting applications from artists of all performance disciplines (Dance, Theatre, Circus, Multidisciplinary etc.) We are particularly interested in hearing from artists based in the South East of Ireland.

It is planned that the annual unique celebration of the arts will take place in a hybrid format with events online and at venues across Waterford City from October 15th to 24th 2021.

Applications will be accepted until June 30th 2021. To apply please email imaginefestofficial@gmail.com with the title and short description of the proposed work (max 300 words), the name of the choreographer/writer/director/lead artist, with a short biography or CV and jpg images.

Please include the names of performers if different from above and the length of the piece (20 min max). A short video link of the work so far (no longer than 2 minutes) or videos of past work if there is no footage or a script if it is a text-based piece is also required.

For further details contact Nora at imaginefestofficial@gmail.com n

SlaNey artS & heritage

Arts & Literature Update by Maria Nolan It was akin to re-visiting an old friend being able to enter The Presentation Centre in Enniscorthy recently.

The Exhibition opened virtually on Saturday 29th May and will run until 24th July with a maximum of 8 visitors at any one time, allowed in the Centre.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

The Centre was so badly missed during pandemic for all the wonderful events, receptions, plays and exhibitions hosted there on a regular basis, making it an integral part of the arts and culture landscape of Enniscorthy.

So, it gives me tremendous pleasure to share that the Centre is now accessible from Monday to Thursday from 10am – 5pm, Friday from 10am to 4pm and Saturday from 10am to 1pm, all current Covid guidelines strictly adhered to.

And to say that it has returned with a bang, would be an understatement as the Centre proudly hosts Chrysalis by artist Eva O’Donovan – from 29th May to 24th July.

Chrysalis is a fabulous collection of portraits, painted in oil on vintage style fabric, using live models to celebrate the very essence of femininity but artist Eva takes it one step further exploring the broader concept of the term.

In an attempt to redress the lack of visibility of those identifying as transfeminine in the visual arts, and portraiture in particular, the artist collaborated with Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI) to source subjects for this most

remarkable exhibition and the results are stunning.

Eva O’Donovan worked closely with the models and their input has been key to the success of the innovative project. She says, ‘Much time was spent developing relationships before any work commenced, this project has taken almost a year to complete and it has been a year of great growth and fun.’

PLEASE SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRE WHEN IT FULLY REOPENS Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.

The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000.

Enniscorthy Library - Lymington Road - Enniscorthy Phone: 053 9236055 enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthylibrary

On the literary front, as the Wexford Literary Arts Festival Committee are busy preparing an extensive programme for their eight year running, celebrating all that is new and exciting on the literary calendar, particularly the local one, author Carmel Harrington’s ninth novel The Moon Over Kilmore Quay is on book shelves all over the country as I write, and we await with great expectation Sheila Forsey’s third historical fiction publication, The Lakehouse at Lenashee, due for release on 16th June. A friend of the Festival and regular contributor, Felicity Hayes McCoy, has just released her latest in the Finfarran series The Year of Lost and Found and all of them will feature in this year’s eclectic Festival running virtually from 2nd to 4th July, celebrating in particular local lockdown literature and going out digitally on Wexford Literary Arts Festival website (http://www.wexfordliteraryfestival.com), Facebook Page and YouTube Channel.

Lots to look forward to right here in Enniscorthy as we emerge cautiously from the shadows of Covid 19. n

Wexford Festival Opera with live audiences!

The 2021 WFO 13-day programme, celebrating Wexford’s 70th anniversary, looks forward to welcoming live audiences back into the National Opera House, to experience in person the magic that is Wexford Festival Opera.

All events will be delivered safely, within government guidelines. Live audience numbers for festival performances will be at a reduced capacity, but this is not expected to dampen the excitement of this 70th Anniversary festival programme.

There will be three evening operas, performed in the O’Reilly Theatre to a limited audience – a fully-staged production of Edmea (Alfredo Catalani), a semi-staged production of Le Songe d’une nuit d’été (Ambroise Thomas), and a concert performance of Ein Wintermärchen (Karl Goldmark). n

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€2.5m expansion to Wexford Arts Centre commences

Designed by ODKM Architects and supported by Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and Wexford County Council, the Arts Centre extension will provide better access and a lift, additional gallery and workshop space, and upgraded dressing rooms, toilets, etc. Pictured right: Wexford Mayor Leonard Kelly and Arts Centre Executive Director Elizabeth Whyte turn the sod.

Works on the renovation and extension to Wexford Arts Centre commenced on site on the 6th of May. This important expansion was delayed due to Covid 19 and it is with great anticipation that works have now commenced on the rejuvenation of this important cultural venue in the heart of Wexford town.

In addition to some upgrade works to the existing building, a new part two/part three storey extension will be installed at the side of the existing structure. The new building will include a new reception area, new gallery space, a lift, improved and accessible toilet facilities, improved welfare facilities for staff and visiting artists and outdoor seating and landscaping. It was central to the project to retain the original fabric of the iconic structure, while discreetly introducing a state-of-the-art extension to coexist alongside it.

The €2.5 million extension was designed

by ODKM Architects and the works will be carried out by well-known Wexford contractor McKelan Construction Ltd. The project has been financially supported with a €1 million grant from

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the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, with Wexford County Council providing the balance of funding.

The original building, constructed in 1775, forms an integral part of the fabric of Wexford Town. Nestled alongside the original town walls in the heart of the town, it has been home to Wexford Arts Centre since 1974.

Speaking at the commencement of works, Mayor of Wexford Councillor Leonard Kelly said: “The extension and upgrading will come as a welcome addition to the cultural offering of Wexford Town. Arts venues and performers have been some of the hardest hit over the past 14 months and so I am delighted to be here today turning the sod on this state-of-the-art facility. It is welcome news to artists and audiences alike.”

Elizabeth Whyte is artistic director at Wexford Arts Centre. "We are delighted to see construction work start on the long-awaited new extension for Wexford Arts Centre which will provide necessary access for all abilities and complete our Arts for All capital plans.” She continued,

“This will be a great addition to the cultural spine of Wexford and we look forward to welcoming the Wexford community through our new doors in the future to engage with our vibrant arts programme. We greatly appreciate the project management and match funding support of Wexford County Council in addition to support funding from Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media towards this capital project."

It is estimated that the works will take 13 months to complete. n

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Wexford Mayor Leonard Kelly and Arts Centre Executive Director Elizabeth Whyte turn the sod on the new Wexford Arts Centre extension, on 6th May 2021. Also pictured are Wexford County Council staff and building contractors.

EMERGENCE Visual Art Award 2021 Wexford County Council Arts

award cycle and a solo exhibition at

Department and Wexford Arts

Wexford Arts Centre in September

Centre in partnership with Wexford

2023.

Campus School of Art and Design (IT Carlow) are pleased to announce a call for applications for the EMERGENCE Visual Art Award 2021.

Notably, the award is aimed at artists at the earlier stages of their careers or those re-engaging in their practice after a period of time or absence.

The deadline for receipt of email

However, interest is also welcomed

submissions is 4.00pm Thursday 17th

from artists who may have previously

June, 2021.

created and publicly presented a

The term ‘emergence’ connects to the

modest body of independent works

central purpose of this award which is

and are eager to progress in their

to support visual artists with the devel-

professional and creative devel-

opment and promotion of their prac-

opment. In addition, artists who

tice. The award is open to artists of

demonstrate innovative experimenta-

any age with a third level visual arts

tion in their practice are encouraged

education and three years of post-

to apply.

graduate experience or the equivalent

Facilitated by Wexford Arts Centre,

in self-guided practice.

the award winner will have the oppor-

This award is presented biannually to

tunity to link with the Wexford Campus

one visual artist based in Ireland.

School of Art & Design (IT Carlow) and

Produced under the guidance of

will be encouraged to develop

Curator Catherine Bowe, the award

connections over the period of the

has a monetary value of €15,000 and

award. As part of this partnership,

includes additional mentorship

Wexford Campus School of Art &

support to value of €2,000 over the

Design will offer the award winner self-

directed opportunities to engage with the staff and students and also avail of practical resources such as studio space and access to equipment for a period. The artist will have the opportunity to potentially collaborate with students or staff to realise their work in a mutually beneficial research or production capacity and partake in the Visiting Lecture Series.

Applicants are asked to make a clear case of why the award would be of value to their practice and professional development at this time, and how it will enable them to progress to the next stage in their career. Proposals should be for new work and where appropriate, be site-specific.

Applicants should also consider the context of Wexford County and how they might engage with Wexford Campus School of Arts & Design in their proposal.

See: www.emergenceaward.ie The EMERGENCE Visual Art Award is supported by the Arts Council. n

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Waiting on autism assessments Sinn Féin TD for Wexford, Deputy Johnny Mythen, has raised ‘serious concern’ around Autism assessment waiting lists in Co. Wexford following a Parliamentary Question which showed there were 436 children waiting more than 12 months for an Autism Spectrum Disorder assessment in the county.

Speaking on the matter Deputy Mythen said, “Unfortunately, I am not surprised by the figures I have received from the HSE, which show over 500 children are awaiting an assessment in Co. Wexford, with 436 children waiting well over a year.

“Families have contacted my office in a state of total despair looking for help for their children. Without an assessment, they cannot secure the necessary supports for their children.

Johnny Mythen TD

Appointment to the New Ireland Commission – Senator Malcolm Byrne The SDLP recently established the New Ireland Commission which has the aim of exploring in a meaningful way how we can build cooperation and partnerships on this island, in health, in education, in the economy, in other areas.

Gorey Senator Malcolm Byrne is honoured to have been asked by SDLP Leader, Colin Eastwood, to serve as a member of the Commission along with academics, businesspeople, trade unionists, community workers, leaders of different faiths and others. The group includes a former Republican prisoner as well as the former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.

Malcolm says, “It is a progressive initiative that looks to bring people from different backgrounds and opinions on this island together to learn and share ideas... We have a lot of work to do to build a new Ireland and we must be willing to listen and work together.” n

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“When a family receives a diagnosis of autism for their child, there are obvious changes that may need to be made in terms of educational, healthcare and other supports to ensure the health, wellbeing and happiness of the child.

“The appropriate supports cannot be put in place if a family is left waiting for an

assessment. This is highly stressful for the children, parents and siblings involved.

“The worry of this is compounded by the effects of Covid-19, and the impact this pandemic has had on the wellbeing of many of these children.

“The Minister has recently announced her intention to establish a Working Group to develop an Autism Innovation Strategy, but there appears to be no corresponding timeframe or terms of reference, and a date for when the long overdue strategy will be published.

“While we welcome the Minister’s intentions, the delay is denying children vital services.

“The children waiting 12 months and over already are seriously disadvantaged and should not have to wait on a promised strategy, they must be accessed now.

“There is a clear onus on the current Government to provide proper additional resources to meet current demand and I am urging the government to intervene, because Autism services are at a disastrous all-time low.” n

76% increase in level of Disability Grant Funding for Wexford Co. Council The government has announced significantly increased disability grant funding of €762,039, which was the full amount sought by Wexford County Council, and with additional funding from the Council itself that will mean €846,710 will be available for adapting homes of those with a disability this year.

This can be used for adaption such as grab rails, disabled access ramps, wet rooms, widening doors and converting rooms into downstairs bedrooms.

Applications are made through Wexford County Council.

Senator Malcolm Byrne says: “This is a welcome and significant investment in supporting those with a disability living in their own homes. I know the difference it can make.” n

Senator Malcolm Byrne

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FAC ES A ND P LAC ES

Cllr George Lawlor supporting the A-D Caller initiative.

See story page 10.

Cllr Tom Forde, Mayor Leonard Kelly, and Cllr David Hynes stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people on Wexford Bridge, May 2021.

Below: Out and about in Enniscorthy, plant shopping in Abbey Square was Annita Bukobska.

An Eye for Fashion… Pictured in fine style at the Jack & Jill charity boutique in Gorey preparing for reopening on Monday 17th May was Robert McCoy, manager of the shop at 1 Main Street, Gorey.

The boutique, which sells ladies, gents and children’s clothing, as well as handbags, shoes, bric-a-brac and furniture, had been closed since January due to government public health restrictions.

Staff were exceptionally busy in the run-up to reopening taking delivery of brand-new products kindly donated by high street retailers.

Shoppers will not only be able to snap up a bargain there, but they will also be supporting home nursing and end-of-life support to children with highly complex and life-threatening conditions.

Doors open Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm.

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Cameron and CBS – a great combination Great teamwork – Cameron Shannon (third child from right in front row) with the Mayor of Wexford Leonard Kelly, local Councillors, sponsors, local business owners, management and staff of CBS Primary School, Wexford.

Wexford Mayor Leonard Kelly was invited last month to the CBS Primary School Wexford by Raymond Shannon of Wexford People Helping People (WPHP) to acknowledge the wonderful gesture of the Principal Vicky Barron and the board of management at the school for opening their doors on a permanent basis for a Soup Kitchen which is run by WPHP

and Wexford Homeless Housing Action Group. Food for the kitchen is kindly provided by the people and businesses of Wexford.

to make the wonderful gesture that they have made to the WPHP group and Wexford Homeless Housing Action Group.

The Mayor, on his visit, acknowledged in particular young Cameron Shannon (Raymond’s son) whose passion for the work his dad, and all the other volunteers, are engaged in moved the school

Among the others in attendance on 22nd May 2021 to support the work of the wonderful Cameron, his dad and the Soup Kitchen project were Cllrs Lisa McDonald and Jim Codd. n

Young Cameron Shannon with Wexford Mayor, Leonard Kelly, and Cllr Lisa McDonald in the background of the photo on the left.

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Motor Neurone Fundraiser Above: Senator Malcolm Byrne gets the Gorey Motor Neurone Fundraiser off to a running start. L-R: Cllr Pip Breen, fund organiser Vanessa Davey, Senator Malcolm Byrne who is running from Castletown to the Hook in stages, Cllr Joe O’Sullivan (Chairman Gorey District Council), Cllr Andrew Bolger, Cllr Kenny, all at Castletown to support Malcolm’s first 20k run on 30th May.

Senator Malcolm Byrne on his way followed by Motor Neurone Fundraiser organiser Vanessa Davey.

Below: The Mayor of Wexford, Leonard Kelly (left), lends his support to the Co. Wexford Motor Neurone Fundraiser.

Mayor Kelly is pictured with organisers Vanessa Davey and former TD Hugh Byrne.

Bottom: Cllr Maura Bell joined the Motor Neurone fundraising organiser Vanessa Davey outside Wexford RNLI Station, Wexford Bridge.

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FACES AND PLACES... ENNISCORTHY

Above left: At The Village at Wheelocks were L-R: Emer O’Brien, Paul Sheridan, Reiltin and Oisin Sheridan and Peter O’Brien.

Above right: At the re-opening of Kilcannon Garden Centre on 18th May were Tom and Kathleen Fortune.

Below left: At the re-opening of Kilcannon Garden Centre was Carol Flavin.

Below right: Out and about in Enniscorthy were brother and sister Adam and Lily May Tobin shopping on Rafter Street.

Bottom left: Relaxing in Market Square on 22nd May were Willie Green and Ger Doyle.

Bottom right: Family shopping in Abbey Square were Calvin, Kayley, Carolanne and Hannah Burke.

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Local beauty blogger says “Think Before You Flush” Left: Local Wexford Beauty Blogger Irish Beauty Fairy (Sally Foran) has teamed up with the Think Before You Flush campaign.

Right: An eight-foot-long pump station blockage.

Items such as wet wipes and cotton buds flushed down the toilet instead of simply putting them in the bin cause blockages in the network, pumping stations and wastewater treatment plants with resultant overflows and environmental issues Sally Foran, a Wexford based skincare and beauty blogger (Irish Beauty Fairy), has teamed up with the Think Before You Flush campaign to invite the people of Enniscorthy and Co. Wexford to make small changes in their flushing behaviour. Sally has shared why flushing unsuitable items like wet wipes and cotton pads down the toilet is problematic, as well as some tips, on her social media accounts: @irishbeautyfairy on Instagram and @thehealthandbeautyfairy on Facebook.

There’s no denying wet wipes are incredibly useful. Many people love the convenience of disposable makeup remover wipes but are unaware of the problems associated with these single-use items. As well as coming in plastic packaging, many baby wipes, facial wipes, and antibacterial wipes contain some form of plastic. Unfortunately, plastic in wet wipes doesn’t just disappear when you dispose of them – plastic’s biodegradability is low, meaning it can take hundreds, if not thousands of years to break down. A recent study conducted in Galway, Clare and Mayo by scientists from Earth and Ocean Sciences and the Ryan Institute at NUIG, found that 50% of wipes labelled as ‘flushable’ were actually made of plastic and were not biodegradable.

Why #ThinkB4UFlush?

Unlike toilet paper, which is designed to disintegrate quickly in our pipes and sewage systems, the synthetic materials in wipes makes them very strong and unable to break down. When wipes are flushed

down the toilet it causes blockages in the wastewater network, pumping stations and treatment plants. They can also end up on our beaches and in our oceans, damaging our marine environment. Think Before You Flush is a public awareness campaign operated by Clean Coasts in partnership with Irish Water, addressing the issue of flushing these unsuitable items down the toilet. Other problem items include cotton buds, dental floss and sanitary products, many of which also contain plastic and should never be flushed.

Speaking about the issue of sewage related waste, Sally of Irish Beauty Fairy said, “We’re all well aware of how bad make-up wipes are for our skin, but they’re also very damaging to our environment as they can cause blockages and end up on our lovely beaches and rivers.

Of the 2,000 blockages that Irish Water deal with every month, 75% are wipes, so it’s imperative that we make the switch to reusables which are widely available now.

Finally, it’s not just our skin and our environment they negatively affect, wipes contain plastics, which break down into micro plastics, which end up in our food chain so they impact our health too! Think Before You Flush and make that switch!”

Speaking about the campaign, Sinead McCoy, Clean Coasts said: “The Think Before You Flush campaign, through education and awareness, aims to prevent items like cotton bud sticks washing up on Ireland’s spectacular beaches. By making small changes in our flushing behaviour we can prevent the harm caused by

sewage related litter in the marine environment. We are asking people to dispose of wipes and sanitary waste items in the bin instead of the toilet, this small change can make a big difference.”

Also speaking about the campaign, Niall O’Riordan, Regional Operations Lead with Irish Water said that there were 236 occurrences of sewer blockages in the Enniscorthy area in 2019/20 which account for 33% of the overall blockages in Co Wexford... We are delighted to continue our partnership with Clean Coasts to deliver this important campaign together. We would like to thank the people of Enniscorthy for their support.”

What can you do?

 Put a bin in your bathroom (to reduce the likelihood of wipes and other sanitary related litter ending up in the toilet). You can even download some of the Think Before You Flush resources and stick them up as a reminder.

 Switch to reusable options e.g. a facial cloth. For a zero-waste option, you can make your very own DIY make-up remover or toner.

 Switch to plastic-free alternatives where possible and always dispose of these items in the general waste bin when you’ve finished with them and never down the toilet.

 Join the campaign at www.thinkbeforeyouflush.org and follow @CleanCoasts on social media. n

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‘Rewilding Wexford’ launched To coincide with National Biodiversity Week in mid May, the LeasCathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Councillor Garry Laffan, launched Rewilding Wexford. Wexford County Council is developing a programme of activities to combat climate change and the Rewilding Wexford project will contribute to that vital work.

The project will help to fulfil Wexford County Council’s objectives as set out in the Wexford County Biodiversity Plan, the Corporate Plan and the Climate Change Adaption Plan. The project will also help fulfil national policy objectives including the National Biodiversity Action Plan, All Ireland Pollinator Plan and UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Rewilding Wexford has identified sites for their development as biodiversity habitats. In simple terms the objective will be to encourage and actively promote the evolution of these sites as natural habitats, to allow the native life to flourish.

This has been hampered in recent years with modern agricultural practices which can inadvertently create environments which are difficult for pollinators and fauna to survive and thrive in. The Rewilding sites will provide islands of natural flora which will assist in combating this phenomenon.

Councillor Laffan commented, “It gives me great hope today to officially launch Rewilding Wexford. The inclusion of new sites as identified biodiversity habitats will support native species of flora and fauna in their local area which over time will allow them to become firmly reestablished. This is just one of many projects in support of the Wexford County Biodiversity Action Plan and it will mean a great deal to the future of the county.”

Rewilding Wexford is currently working with Manus Crowley of Enfor Ltd to create 20.83 acres of native woodlands on Council owned lands, with Wex Bee Aware creating pollinator friendly sites and promoting a number of wetland sites with 50 acres of unmanaged rewilding area designated to the project.

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Wexford County Biodiversity Action Plan:

Wexford County Council Climate

To protect County Wexford’s Biodiversity through actions and raising awareness. To achieve this overall aim, the County Wexford Biodiversity Action Plan outlines a series of actions which are listed under each of the 5 key objectives of the plan;

Strategy 2019-2024:

Objective 1 - To identify Biodiversity information and fill data gaps for the County, to prioritise habitats and species for protection and to inform conservation action and decision making.

Theme 5: Natural Resources and Cultural Infrastructure.

Objective 1 - To provide for protection and enhancement of natural environment to work positively towards climate action.

Objective 2 - To promote effective biodiversity management and enhance protection of natural habitats and landscapes.

Objective 2 - To make information on biodiversity available.

Theme 6: Community Health and Wellbeing.

Objective 3 - To raise awareness across all sectors, groups and ages, for (a) Wexford’s Biodiversity, (b) its value (c) the issues facing it, and (d) encourage people through using various media, training, and innovative initiatives to support biodiversity conservation.

Objective 1 - To build capacity and resilience within communities.

Objective 4 - To promote and support best practice in biodiversity conservation, taking into account national and local priorities.

Objective 5 - To incorporate and raise the profile of biodiversity conservation issues in the local authority’s actions and policies.

Wexford County Council Corporate Plan 2019-2024: Clean and Green Wexford. Work to provide healthy environment through education and regulation; to conserve and enhance the natural and built environment; and provide high quality recreational infrastructure for the benefit of the community and visitors.

To Respect and Enhance the natural and manmade Environment.

To Tackle Climate Change.

To promote Biodiversity. n

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WCC targets county beauty spots Wexford County Council is asking for the public’s assistance to make Wexford the cleanest county in Ireland this summer through the Green Your Picnic campaign.

More than 2.25 million single-use plastic bottle and cups are used in Ireland each Bank Holiday Weekend; refill cups and bottles can significantly reduce this waste.

Wexford County Council is asking for the public’s help in ensuring the county’s beaches, parks and beauty spots are amongst the cleanest in Ireland this summer, as the local authority launches a new waste and litter prevention campaign: Green Your Picnic.

Key to the campaign is the assistance of the people of the Model County in keeping millions of single-use cups, bottles and cutlery from ending up in the waste system or as litter.

Each day in Ireland more than half a million single-use coffee cups and close to a quarter of a million single-use plastic bottles are used, the equivalent of 2.25 million single-use cups and bottles over a bank holiday weekend.

is not difficult and in fact can be quite fun. Over the coming weeks Wexford County Council will run a campaign on media and social media, as well as a number of workshops outlining some simple ways we can all make a difference this summer, while also having many stress-free, memorable trips throughout the county.”

Environmental Awareness Officer with Wexford County Council Cliona Connolly said, “Simply using reusable cups and bottles is a great way to minimise the amount of waste generated. It is worth noting that reusables were not banned during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Government policy continues to promote contactless coffee and advocates for reusable options. There are also a number of free tap-water points in businesses, public buildings and outdoor locations across the county thanks to Refill Ireland. This saves us all from bringing large bottles of single-use bottled water with us on our day trips,

allowing us to fill up as we go,” she advised.

As part of this Green Your Picnic campaign, Wexford County Council will host a series of online workshops from Tuesday June 15 to Thursday June 17, 2021.

Speakers from Refill Ireland, Conscious Cup and Leave No Trace will advise on some tips and hints that will help people to pack their picnic and plan their day out with minimal fuss and waste.

“By following these simple tips and life hacks, holiday makers and day trippers can help protect Wexford’s beauty spots from litter and reduce unnecessary waste, all the while saving money, supporting small businesses and improving their outdoor experience,” said Ms Connolly.

For further information on Wexford County Council’s Green Your Picnic Campaign please see: www.wexfordcoco.ie n

Removing single-use items from family picnics and bench dining with friends would significantly reduce Ireland’s waste output.

By reducing single use items for picnics and outdoor events this summer, staycationers and day-trippers will also reduce the amount of litter brought home for disposal.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council, Cllr Ger Carthy explained, “The Summer months of June, July and August 2021 will see an increased number of people holidaying at home, taking day trips and visiting all public amenities in the county.

As evidenced from the Summer of 2020, these staycations will result in pressure on waste disposal at these locations.”

“We are asking people therefore to bring their litter home with them after they have enjoyed the many beautiful outdoor sites Wexford has to offer, and to use reusable items wherever and whenever possible. Leaving no trace and reducing the amount of single-use items

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ACT NOW COLLECTIVE

New one-stop climate action resource website launches in Ireland On May 17th, Act Now Collective, a website resource for positive climate action celebrated its official launch in an online event. The project is led by a group of volunteers from across Ireland and in Spain and Germany, and from different professional backgrounds with a common goal in mind: to kick-start climate action in Ireland.

The website was designed by Wexford based designer and collective member, Brian Byrne of Lands Studio, who collaborated with renowned Irish illustrator and children’s books author, Chris Haughton.

Chris provided beautiful illustrations in his trademark style with an emphasis on nature. The result is a vibrant, positive and uplifting online climate action resource that is striking and unique in design.

‘Many people are aware of how to make certain lifestyle changes, but there was no single, comprehensive, well-designed, Irish-specific resource. After waiting around a year, hoping that the government or someone else would create such a website, we gradually assembled a very talented and enthusiastic team and did it ourselves’, said Robert Bourke, the Act Now Collective founder.

The online launch consisted of a short introduction of the Act Now Collective and its goal and included keynote speakers. In addition to Chris Haughton, special guests

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‘I must commend Brian and the team at the Act Now Collective for their work on this wonderful project’ commented Leonard Kelly. ‘The website is a fantastic resource for anyone who is interested in taking climate action.

There’s plenty of advice, information and practical tips presented in a very accessible way.’

Next, the Climate Collective aims to create a supporting and empowering community. The website is seeking expansion in Spain and Germany. Monthly webinars with guest speakers will provide further tips and resources on how to take positive climate action.

The aim of the website is to provide information and practical guidelines for those who wish to start small to make big changes.

The easy-to-use design allows visitors to read tips on how to implement progressive changes from different categories such as nutrition and shopping, and even parenting and voting.

included Ali Kelly from Nuw, an app focused on tackling fast fashion through encouraging clothes swaps, and Áine O’Gorman from Stop Climate Chaos Ireland. The launch was also attended by local Councillors Maura Bell and Mayor Leonard Kelly.

Brian Byrne of Lands Studio (left) and Chris Haughton, renowned Irish illustrator (right).

You can get in touch with Act Now Collective via email (info@actnowcollective.org) or through their social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Visit actnowcollective.org n

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A little piece of heaven at Hook

Head to Hook for a Summer Solstice Yoga Retreat The majestic Hook Peninsula is the setting for a brand new Summer Solstice Yoga Retreat taking place from June 19th to 22nd in County Wexford.

Niamh and Liam Colfer, the duo behind ‘Livin Off the Hook’, have created an invigorating retreat for yoga lovers of all levels. Participants will be invited to join a selection of dynamic and restorative yoga practices, guided breathing practices and meditations, nature connection walks and talks, all of which will take place outdoors.

Guests at the Yoga weekend will enjoy accommodation at the beautiful Old Quay House, a magnificent historic period house situated on the harbour at the delightful village of Fethard-on-Sea. The house has undergone a complete tasteful modern refurbishment and is in pristine condition. Chef Siobhan Waters is passionate about cooking nutritious whole foods, plant-based meals and treats and will be creating a variety of nourishing dishes for guests throughout the weekend.

Guests will also have the option of joining in some excursion adventures including hikes, sea-swims and a kayak trip. The Old Quay House is located on

the beach so it’s ideal for sea lovers who can take a dip at any time.

Tutors Niamh and Liam both work fulltime as health and wellness experts.

Niamh is a personal trainer, strength and conditioning coach and yoga alliance professionals yoga teacher. She has taught yoga at various locations around Europe over the past three years including one of the most beautiful yoga Niamh Colfer

A ‘Livin Off The Hook’ Yoga class on Baginbun Beach, Fethard, Co. Wexford.

retreat centres in the world – Suryalila Retreat Center where she trained. She teaches Vinyasa Flow, Yin & Restorative yoga. Liam has been studying breathwork for the past six years and is a Yoga Alliance certified breath coach and an advanced Oxygen Advantage breathwork instructor.

Realising the power of the breath, Liam has taught breathwork and cold exposure workshops in Spain and he now teaches breathwork here on the Hook and online.

Niamh says, “Our aim is to provide space and learning for individuals and groups to come to connect and to share our knowledge. The intention is to enhance selfawareness and share wellness techniques to help you find greater harmony in daily life.”

All of the retreat participants will also be leaving with an inspiring home practice and techniques e-book with information and the techniques learned throughout the retreat including self-care tools, breath-work practices, yoga postures, meditations, mudras and delicious plantbased recipes. The Summer Solstice Yoga Retreat is available from €650 per person including accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner and all classes included.

See: www.LivinOffTheHook.com n

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Irish TV presenter, Maia Dunphy, launches the Energia and GIY Get Ireland Growing initiative.

1,000 ‘GROWBoxes’ to be won!

As part of the Energia and GIY Get Ireland Growing Initiative

Energia has partnered with not-forprofit social enterprise GIY (Grow It Yourself), to launch the first-ever national Energia Get Ireland Growing Day on June 19th. To help encourage people across the nation to get involved, Energia is giving away 1,000 large GROWBoxes to people across Ireland worth €45,000.

With the pandemic forcing us to stay at home, there has been a surge in interest in growing your own food. Over the past 12 months, online searches for organic food has increased by 80%. Food growing is a lever to a healthier and happier, more sustainable world.

Energia Get Ireland Growing in partnership with GIY for the fifth consecutive year aims to make it easy for you to grow your own vegetables at home, to help power a more sustainable future in your community. The free GROWBox includes everything you need to start growing your own herbs and vegetables at home, as well as a bag of Irish Wildflower Beebombs which help re-create bee habitats and are vital to help the threatened species survive.

Energia GIG Ambassador and Presenter of ‘What Planet are You on’, Maia Dunphy, says, “It’s so important that we all learn

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how to become more sustainable, and our future depends on it. I’ve recently enrolled in a Masters in Climate Change policy to help expand my knowledge on helping to protect our planet. Initiatives like the Energia Get Ireland Growing campaign are so important and help us to see how we can all do our part in creating a more sustainable future for Ireland. Even if you don’t have a garden, you can still start growing on your windowsill or balcony, like I do. You might not grow quite enough to feed everyone, but it's so rewarding when you can eat what you’ve grown from a simple seed, I challenge everyone to give it a go this summer and grow at least a little of your own!”

The GROWBoxes are designed for all living situations whether you are in an apartment or have a garden, everyone can still grow herbs and vegetables. All people need to do is fill out a simple registration form at getirelandgrowing.ie to enter the draw for one of the 1,000 free GROWBoxes. Energia and GIY will help support you on your seed growing journey this summer with an array of tips and tricks and the newly launched GIY app.

Mick Kelly, Founder of GIY, said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Energia again

this year to help Get Ireland Growing.

Lockdown has been a powerful reminder that food growing is in our nature as people.

Critically, it also connects us in a profound way to nature as we see first-hand our dependency on our climate and biodiversity.”

The Energia Get Ireland Growing GROWBox contains all you need to get growing straight away. It's got an array of seeds, pots, compost block and tips to help your seeds grow ready for your plate.

The GROWBox includes: 5 x seed packs: beetroot, carrot, peas, mixed oriental greens and basil 1 x hessian bag of Irish wildflower beebombs (15/bag) Compost Fibre seed trays Rice husk pots Get Ireland Growing tips and recipe cards.

To register and enter the draw for your FREE GROWBox, click www.getirelandgrowing.ie For further information visit www.getirelandgrowing.ie and share your seed growing pictures across social using #GetIrelandGrowing, and follow the campaign through @EnergiaGIG on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. n

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Return of the Tidy Towns competition Co. Wexford Fine Gael TD Paul Kehoe has confirmed that 27 Tidy Town Groups in Wexford have now been awarded grants of up to €1,000 under the Tidy Towns Fund announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD.

Paul Kehoe TD

“I encourage everyone who cares about their community in Wexford to get involved in the competition. This year’s closing date is Friday 2nd July 2021 with results expected to be announced in Q4 of this year.

Deputy Kehoe said, “The SuperValu Tidy Towns Competition will be a huge boost to communities across Wexford, many of whom have kept up the great work throughout the pandemic to keep their neighbourhoods clean, despite the cancellation of the competition due to Covid.

“The 2021 competition will take place in the same format as previous years.

However special arrangements have been put in place to allow the competition to go ahead safely, with a specific emphasis on electronic entry and remote adjudication.

“The organisers acknowledge that volunteers have not been able to deliver on all of the plans that they may have had for their towns, and the competition adjudicators will be mindful of this fact when assessing entries.

“The health and safety of volunteers is a priority and groups should continue to adhere to public health guidelines as they have done so remarkably well since the onset of the Pandemic.

“You can check out www.tidytowns.ie for all the information you need. Entry forms will be emailed to all registered groups and can also be obtained from the TidyTowns Unit in the Department of Rural and Community Development (Phone: 076 100 6912) or by emailing tidytowns@drcd.gov.ie ,” Deputy Kehoe concluded. n

Rewilding Wexford. L-R: Wexford County Council Chief Executive Tom Enright, Project Lead Sonia Hunt, Leas Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Garry Laffan and Director of Services Tony Larkin. See story page 98.

Wexford Co. Council – leading by example Wexford County Council has become the first County Council in Ireland to stop the purchase of chemical cleaning products.

‘Green Clean’ was initiated as part of Wexford Bee Aware – Small Changes, Big Impacts, a programme which seeks to eradicate chemical cleaners from all Wexford County Council offices in favour

of a plant-based, biodegradable cleaning range.

The new product supplied by Irish company ‘Diversey Ireland’ will also reduce plastic waste as many of the products are dose dilutes using reusable bottles. This will also help to achieve some of the targets set for Wexford County Council under the regional waste

management plan.

The commitment to greener cleaning is just one of the many announcements which took place for National Biodiversity Week.

Go green in your home!

For information, tips and advice go to www.mywaste.ie n

2nd June 2021 - Page 103

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Blue and Green for Co. Wexford

Last month, the International Blue Flag and Green Coast Award recipients for 2021 were announced by the Education Unit of An Taisce. The number of Blue Flags awarded this season set a new record for the Republic of Ireland.

The Blue Flag and Green Coast Award sites for 2021 were announced by Ian Diamond, Coastal Awards Manager with An Taisce’s Environmental Education unit, in a virtual awards ceremony attended by Local Authorities, marina operators and Clean Coasts groups who volunteer at the beaches receiving Green Coast Awards this year.

Blue Flag: The Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognised eco-labels. The Blue Flag originated in France in 1985 when French coastal Local Authorities were awarded with the Blue Flag for compliance with sewage treatment and bathing water quality criteria. It was launched as an International programme as part of the "European Year of the Environment” in 1987. In 1988, the first year sites were awarded outside of France, 19 beaches and 2 marinas received the Blue Flag in Ireland. This year Ireland continues to punch above its weight with a record breaking 93 sites awarded, up 2 on last year’s total.

The programme aims to raise environmental awareness and promote sound

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status by An Taisce in 2021. Sixty-one of the beaches awarded in 2020 have retained Green Coast Award status for the coming season. There are 2 first-time recipients of the Green Coast Award in 2021: Rush South Beach in Dublin and Gurteen Bay in County Galway.

environmental management of beaches, marinas and inland bathing waters around the world. The 83 Irish beaches and 10 marinas that have achieved this accolade must adhere to specific criteria related to water quality, information provision, environmental education, safety and site management.

83 beaches and 10 marinas were awarded the Blue Flag for the 2021 season. 79 of the 81 beaches and all 10 marinas awarded last year have retained Blue Flag status for 2021. Four additional beaches have obtained Blue Flag status for the 2021 bathing season.

63 Beaches receive the Green Coast Award for the 2021 Bathing Season: The award recognises beaches for their clean environment, excellent water quality and natural beauty. An important aspect of the Green Coast Awards is the involvement of Clean Coasts groups in the management of awarded sites.

63 beaches received Green Coast Award

Unfortunately, Ballymoney North Beach in County Wexford was one of two beaches nationally which failed to retain Blue Flag status this year. It failed to achieve the Excellent Water Quality Rating necessary to obtain Blue Flag status in 2021.

Marinas: All 10 marinas nationally awarded a Blue Flag in 2020 have been awarded a Blue Flag for the coming season.

Wexford: Ballinesker Beach, Curracloe, Morriscastle, Rosslare Strand, Carne, Kilmore Quay Marina and New Ross Marina all received the prestigious Blue Flag status. This means they adhered to site management including water quality, information provision and safety.

Grange, Cullenstown Strand, St. Helen’s Bay, Ballyhealy, Booley Bay, Cahore Point Beach, Culleton’s Gap, Old Bawn Beach and Baginbun Beach – each received Green Coast Awards. This award recognises beaches for their clean environment, excellent water quality and natural beauty. n