Slaney News, Issue 153, February 2023

New sleep system launched

Sleep problems are estimated to affect almost 80% of people according to research by Laya Healthcare but Ray Murphy, founder of Wexford-based O’Suan Sleep, may have the solution.

O’Suan Sleep uses cutting-edge, pressure-mapping technology to create a blueprint of where your body needs support and how much. It then uses this data to create a sleep system made of layers of specially selected materials combined to suit your particular needs.

A mattress that’s not made for you won’t support your body correctly. This can lead to a build-up of pressure points, which

may mean a lot of tossing and turning at night. The result? Broken and restless sleep for you and your partner.

To find out more about this new custom-designed sleep system that is made by hand in Wexford, contact:

O’Suan Sleep Wexford Studio, Clonard Village, The Green, Clonard Village Centre, Wexford, Y35 R288. Tel: 083 1172909. Email wexford@osuansleep.com

O’Suan Sleep Gorey Studio, Unit 10 Pugin Court, St. Michael’s Road, Gorey, Y26K6E8. gorey@osuansleep.com Tel: 087 6355510. https://osuansleep.com n

Left: Pictured at the O’Suan Sleep studio in Wexford town are Luke Hayes, Manager of O’Suan Sleep, Hazel Murphy, Breda Banville, Mary Nolan and Mary Kelly. Right: George O’Connor and Ray Murphy, founder of O’Suan Sleep.

Pics: Patrick Browne.

Zara Murphy of Physiotherapy New Ross with Betty Hedderman of O’Suan Sleep. Pic: Patrick Browne.

L-R: Luke Hayes, Manager of O’Suan Sleep, Brendan Crowley, Co. Wexford Chamber President and Ray Murphy, founder of O’Suan Sleep. Pic: Patrick Browne.

Left: Mari Carmen Francés, Antonia Sánchez, John O’Connor and Marta Jiménez. Pic: Patrick Browne.

Right: John Collier, Ray Murphy, founder of O’Suan Sleep and Larry O’Gorman. Pic: Patrick Browne.

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.

Welcome to the February issue of Slaney News.

We enter Spring of 2023 with some positive updates on major projects and iconic buildings in the town of Enniscorthy.

The first building in the new Technology Park on the outskirts of town is complete. We expect the first tenant, Pinergy, Ireland’s leading renewable electricity provider, to start moving in within a matter of days, and with the building already 75% let, we expect it to fill up quickly during 2023.

At the January meeting of Wexford Co. Council, CEO Tom Enright, re plying to Enniscorthy’s Cllr Cathal Byrne, stated that there was a hold-up with the Murphy-Floods site due to a legal issue around the title to the property, but that was now being sorted and he was hopeful of getting contracts signed shortly. Whatever reservations the Slaney News may have about the modern design of the new library and apartments proposed for the site, juxtapositioned in our traditional town centre, at this stage it does seem preferable to have something put there rather than let this derelict site fester for any longer.

Both Enniscorthy Castle and the 1798 Centre have reopened for 2023 and are welcoming locals and tourists alike to visit these two major history-laden assets in the town.

As reported last month, the ‘Enniscorthy Town Centre First Plan’ has been approved. It is a comprehensive and ambitious plan for the regeneration of Enniscorthy town centre setting out a series of regeneration strategies and a number of ambitious redevelopment packages which will serve as the catalyst for regeneration of the town centre and Templeshannon area. At the time of going to press, we have just received the final printed version of the plan and we will carry full details on our Facebook page over the coming days and in our March online magazine.

If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our new format. Telephone: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has over 10,000 Followers. And, of course, if you like our new online format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you

– Frank Corcoran

To advertise in the

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.

Home Care Worker –Wexford Home Care

We are recruiting a Home Care Worker to be based in assigned family homes in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford. This is a permanent role working 18 hours per week.

We are also looking for a Home Care Worker for our Gorey Home Care service. This is a permanent contract working 24 hours per week.

The successful candidates will be responsible for providing person-centred care to people with dementia in the client’s own home. You will need good communication and organisational skills and be able to work on your own initiative. Salary will be commensurate with the sector, and dependent on relevant experience.

If you are interested in applying for either of these posts, please submit a full and up-to-date CV to recruit@alzheimer.ie

Further information on these positions and a full job description can be found on our website www.alzheimer.ie

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer

E-parking

Wexford County Council in conjunction with ‘APCOA Connect’ has E-parking available in all Wexford towns. Rather than using pay and display machines, the APCOA Connect App allows you to pay for your parking securely by credit or debit card via your mobile phone.

The App also allows you to search by street name, town name, location code or use the map to select the most suitable parking.

For 24/7 general customer support / technical support / account set-up queries email info@apcoa.ie or phone APCOA Connect on 0818 462899. https://www.apcoaconnect.ie/ n

Enniscorthy roadworks and traffic disruption

The ongoing road resurfacing works on the R744 at Millpark Road, Enniscorthy (Abbey Square to St Mary’s CBS), are due to continue nightly from 7pm to 6am until Wednesday 8th February 2023, with a temporary road closure in effect between those hours. Diversion routes are signposted and local access is being facilitated. n

Ger departs as town manager

Enniscorthy has a new town and district manager – Ms Claire Lawless, who has taken over from Mr Ger Mackey following his move to the housing department of Wexford Co. Council – perhaps a case of ‘out of the frying pan and into the fire’ for Mr Mackey as housing is obviously one of the major issues facing the country nationally and Wexford Co. Council locally.

Ms Lawless has plenty of suitable experience for her new role in Enniscorthy having been the manager of Arklow town and district for the last four years.

Enniscorthy's Senior Executive Engineer, Tadhg O'Corcora, has also now retired and his expertise and experience will be difficult to replace.

The Slaney News always found both Mr Mackey and Mr O'Corcora a pleasure to deal with over the years and we wish them both well for the future.

Our photo, which we took at the January meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District, shows Mr Mackey (second from left) and Mr O'Corcora (second from right) with some of the town's Councillors. n

Matt Murphy & James Dobbs

A delightful cheque presentation

Members of the Enniscorthy Delightful Dollies Women’s Group presentation of cheque for €2,282 to The Ichthyosis Support Group. The money represented the proceeds of the Dollies Christmas Fair in Bellefield GAA complex in December. L-R: Winnie O’Connor (Dollies), Kit Kenny (organiser), Edel Kenny (Ichthyosis Support Group), Jean Hendricks and Jo McMahon (organisers).

Making an Enniscorthy movie

Well known and proven Enniscorthy film director Dick Donaghue recently approached me with an idea for a short film for Enniscorthy, asking if he could work with the Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society members as extras for a fictional short film on the War of Independence.

I suggested to him that he read my second book The Shadow of Freedom, which documents exact details of the War of Independence in Enniscorthy, as and where they happened, woven into a fictional story of the McDonald family of No.8 Court Street.

Dick liked the book and the idea of making a movie around real events, and immediately set to producing a film script based on the novel.

Currently, we are filming scenes around the town, at the Courthouse, the Manse, Court Street, the Cathedral, and other iconic locations, so if you see British soldiers in the Tan Yard Lane, or Rebels being marched up Court Street into the Courthouse, do not be alarmed, we are

not being invaded again, it is all part of The Shadow of Freedom film.

I am hugely excited about the project, not just about seeing extracts from my book being turned into a short movie, but about seeing incidents in the Enniscorthy War of Independence remembered and recorded in the exact locations where they occurred one hundred years ago.

To see my book and my town on the big screen makes me very proud indeed, and I am very grateful to director Dick Donaghue, asst. director Jer Ennis, local historian Barry Lacey, who ensures that all the facts in the film are historically correct, actors and members of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society who are proving themselves to be naturals in front of the camera.

We hope to be ready to show The Shadow of Freedom before the end of the Decade of Commemorations – May 2023, so expect a viewing in April or May at the Presentation Arts Centre.

I am thrilled about this innovative ven-

ture, which places the amazing history of our town in the public arena for all to see, and I hope that the people of Enniscorthy will be pleased with the end result.

Some images from filming ‘The Shadow of Freedom’.

– Maria Nolan

Maria Nolan with her two books.

All set for St Patrick’s Day

ENNISCORTHY ST PATRICK'S DAY PARADE...

At a recent meeting members of the Enniscorthy St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, it was decided that the Annual Parade will go ahead on Friday, 17th March 2023. The parade route will be the same as last year with the marchers going up Hospital Lane which means that Rafter Street and Wafer Street will be bypassed. Led by the Army Reserve Colour Party, the marching groups will set off from St. Senan’s Parish Church at 3.00pm. The floats and vehicles taking part in the parade will assemble on The Promenade.

It is again expected that the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, in association with the Cottage Autism Network, will introduce a Sensory Inclusion Street for the 2023 Parade. If it is agreed, the Sensory Street will be on Templeshannon Quay between William Barker Bridge and Séamus Rafter Bridge. The area is for people with different needs to access the parade in an environment which is safe and sensitive to their needs.

Due to health and safety regulations, insurance implications and advice from An Garda Siochána, horses/animals will NOT be allowed to take part in the parade this year.

Over one hundred clubs, organisations and cultural groups are being circulated with relevant forms for the parade and if any organisation/club hasn’t received one please contact Seán Doyle, 2 Esmonde Road, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 92 35119. Email: seanogodubhghaill@gmail.com n

A safe space in Enniscorthy

The Wexford LGBTQIA+ Community Support group meetings take place twice monthly from 7pm-9pm in the usual location of the IFA Centre, Millpark Road, Enniscorthy. This confidential group provides a safe space for community members of all backgrounds and experiences to come together to extend support and solidarity.

New faces are always welcome – if you're feeling anxious or require assistance to make participation more accessible, don't hesitate to get in touch with the group.

Every segment of the LGBTQIA+ community is welcome, including BIPOC, Traveller and Roma, and immigrant groups.

Funded in partnership with Wexford Pride and @bepiercedbyliam. n

WELCOME FUNDING FOR WEXFORD RAPE CRISIS CENTRE AND WEXFORD WOMEN’S REFUGE

Deputy Paul Kehoe has welcomed funding totalling €5.25m nationwide for more than 65 organisations who work with victims of crime, saying: “I am particularly pleased that two organisations in Wexford; Wexford Rape Crisis (€55,000) and Wexford Women’s Refuge (€22,100) are to receive a total of €77,100, which will prove a very welcome boost to delivery of the services....”

“The work of organisations in Wexford and all across the country that help victims of crime is outstanding. They provide support, information and advice on the rights of victims, outreach work, court accompaniment and crime victim helplines,” Deputy Kehoe said.

“Developing a victim-centred criminal justice system which prioritises the needs and experience of the victim underpins our commitment to building stronger, safer communities and this funding is a significant element of that,” Deputy Kehoe concluded.

Minister James Browne also welcomed the Wexford funding saying: “The work of these invaluable organisations in Wexford and across the country helps victims of crime immeasurably, and I’m delighted my Department can provide this funding to help ensure that everyone who needs these services can access them.

“We understand that inflation and other external factors have increased costs, and are committed to supporting these organisations.

“We will ensure a victim-centred criminal justice system and, in general terms, this funding will assist these organisations in their ability to provide supports and services as victims engage.” n

John Roche, Enniscorthy resident, former Mayor of Wexford and former Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council, may be retired from political life but he is still very much a political anorak – astutely following everything that’s happening around the county, and country, in the political, social and economic fields.

His huge bank of experience and knowledge is being put to good use in his new talk show, Today’s World, broadcast on Wexford Music Radio, live from the Coast Hotel, Rosslare.

The first show went out on Tuesday 24th January at 5pm and featured a lengthy interview with Cllr Michael Sheehan, Cathaoirleach of the New Ross Municipal District.

The show can be accessesd here: http://c2.radioboss.fm:8291/stream

And one can listen live on: http://wmrradioonline.com n

A warm welcome

John’s finger is on the political pulse

John Roche

Enniscorthy TD Johnny Mythen showing a warm welcome for the Ukrainian community at a recent event in Enniscorthy.

Sustainable Enniscorthy hosted our second Energy Saving Expo on 25 January in the Riverside Park Hotel. The free event gave people the chance to talk to local suppliers of energy-saving products and services to learn how to save energy and money in their home, transport, business and farm. The event was well attended, the atmosphere relaxed and the feedback positive.

Yugandhar Patil from KRA Renewables said, “People are concerned about their electricity bills, they know the problem but they don’t know how to fix it.” They had lots of enquiries about SEAI grants, particularly from homeowners considering home upgrades. KRA is the project co-ordinator for the SEAI Communities Energy Grants which provide 30% to 80% funding to homes, businesses or farms depending on the project. KRA, an independent renewable energy and sustainability consultancy, has been appointed by Sustainable Enniscorthy to produce an Energy Master Plan for Enniscorthy with funding from SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland). KRA has already carried out a few energy audits in Enniscorthy and they are offering 10% discount on commercial audits to organisations willing to share the information for the Enniscorthy Energy Master Plan.

Scott Hayes from Love Energy Ltd was delighted with the number of people who were genuinely interested in his wind turbines. Scott has a few site visits planned to discuss the feasibility of a wind turbine installation as a result of the event.

Timmy O’Donovan at K&K Windows said visitors showed good interest in their windows and doors. He advised that the front door is a good starting point for energy saving at home. It is also a good investment, as a good composite door lasts up to 35 years!

Mike Cody from E-volv had “good chats

Sustainable Enniscorthy

The Slaney News is delighted to have the local Sustainable Enniscorthy group on board with their monthly column. In this issue the group reports on their recent Energy Saving Expo held in the Riverside Park Hotel on 25th January, 2023.

and good conversations” with people and “it’s all about the conversations” referring to the advice, business and networking benefits of the night.

Solar Electric solar PV (photovoltaic) panels were popular again at this Expo and this was very noticeable at their stand. People are really interested in the technology and are getting more educated on solar PV and renewables. Anyone who already has solar PVs wants more, so they advise to choose

your PV position carefully and leave space on the roof for more panels. Newer technology is more powerful and produces more energy.

Wexford LEO (Local Enterprise Office) and Wexford Co. Council Environment Section shared a stand, with Caroline answering queries about LEO’s Green for Micro business supports and getting lots of interest in the Home Energy Saving Kit which is available to borrow from all libraries in Co. Wexford.

Pictured L-R: Mike Cody from E-volv. Áine Doyle of Enniscorthy Credit Union. Paul Nolan from Kenny For Bikes. Julie Grant (Wexford Local Development) with well known local photographer John Walsh. All Pics: Enjoy Enniscorthy (www.enjoyenniscorthy.com).

Some of the key people behind the successful Sustainable Enniscorthy Expo, L-R: Feidhim O'Shea, Irene Cadogan, Dervla Tierney, Dearbhla Ní Laighin, Billy Murphy. Pic: Enjoy Enniscorthy.

Liam Doyle from Doyle Boilers was very pleased with the Expo. He said he got business from the October event and expects the same again this time.

Áine Doyle from Enniscorthy Credit Union was delighted to take part in the Energy Saving Expo again. She was encouraged to see so many local businesses, organisations and people working together to make Enniscorthy sustainable. The credit union plays its part offering a Green Loan with a great rate to help finance energy upgrades.

Thomas McGuire, from the Irish EV (Electric Vehicle) Owners Association, is a longstanding supporter of Sustainable Enniscorthy starting at our first event outdoors on the Prom in September 2021. Thomas has a wealth of knowledge on EVs and had a wallbox home charger on display

to show people what’s involved.

Paul Nolan from Kenny For Bikes found the credit union’s Green Loan fits in nicely with his Bike2Work promotion. Kenny For Bikes are an approved provider of the government-backed Cycle to Work scheme, which allows a tax incentive for the purchase of bicycles for those who may use a bike for all or part of their journeys to work, daily or occasionally. Paul describes electric bikes as “the future of our business”, explaining that electric bikes make up 60% of the product range of one of their main suppliers.

Jim and Sarah Byrne from JC Byrne Stoves and Fireplaces weren’t expecting so many people at the Expo and got quite a few enquiries. Previous customers dropped by and thanked them for what they’d done, which was lovely to hear.

Word of mouth is great and people love the warmth of a stove. Sarah described the power of the 28kW stove in their showroom which heats the showroom and 17 radiators in the house!

Fiona O’Loughlin, SEAI mentor, described the Energy Saving Expo as a very valuable professional networking event. She was impressed by the level of expertise available locally for every aspect of sustainability. Sustainable Enniscorthy would like to thank the Riverside Park Hotel for hosting the event and all the exhibitors and visitors for taking part in the Energy Saving Expo. Support Sustainable Enniscorthy by following us on Facebook or Instagram. Website: www.sustainableenniscorthy.com or contact us to get involved! n

Above left: Thomas McGuire of Irish EV (Electric Vehicle) Owners Association. Above centre: Timmy O’Donovan from K&K Windows.

Above right: Liam Doyle of Doyle Boilers offers some professional advice. Pics: Sustainable Enniscorthy.

Above left: The Solar Electric stand (pic: Enjoy Enniscorthy). Above centre: Scott Hayes of Love Energy (pic: Sustainable Enniscorthy). Above right: Sarah and Jim Byrne from JC Byrne Stoves and Fireplaces (pic: Enjoy Enniscorthy). Left: Caroline McCrea (Wexford Local Enterprise Office) answers some queries (pic: Enjoy Enniscorthy). Right: the KRA stand (pic: Enjoy Enniscorthy).

AS THE MEDIA DANCES AROUND THE PASCHAL SAGA, WILL THEY AGAIN OPEN THAT OLD PANDORA’S BOX!

During the last few weeks, the general public have been overwhelmed with content on the alleged wrongdoings by politicians and political parties. I have been asked many questions on the subject so I will give my take on the issues raised and try and explain why S.I.P.O. was formed, what is its function, and where it should go from here.

First of all, I always found it peculiar as to why TDs and Ministers would either seek or accept donations from wealthy business people. The perception of someone earning over €100,000 along with expenses taking money from, let us say, a developer, only to be beholden to return favours – this does not sit well with the public. On the flipside, I have also seen local councillors forced to take out personal loans to pay for election expenses. I can safely say that sitting TDs, Junior and Senior Ministers can easily afford their own election expenses without putting themselves in a position of having to repay favours for donations.

During the dark days of the 80s, Ireland went through politically turbulent times of corruption which involved politicians and public officials up to the highest levels resulting in tribunals that shook the nation. As a result, more stringent laws and ethics guidelines were put in place to curb corruption in the system. The Standards in Public Office was formed. Politicians are now required to fill up many forms which include declarations as to any involvement in businesses. If an owner or a director of any company – that must be declared. Any houses or properties and also any land that may be in their possession. Any financial transactions with any local authority must be declared. Any gifts especially

TOWN TALK

drinks paid for during the campaign. This comprehensive list also asks where the funds come from and from whom. Anyone providing money or services over €1,000 must be named so people can see who is behind the candidate.

WITH KEITH DOYLE

benefit-in-kind gifts such as free space for constituency offices or pop-up offices during elections must be declared.

The topic that is in focus today is election expenses. This is a detailed list ranging from posters and canvassing cards to hiring of cars, newspaper ads, and all the way down to any meals and

This is where Paschal Donohoe came into difficulty with S.I.P.O. A businessman did give funds or services over the declared amount and did not appear on the declaration. As I prepare this piece for print, Sinn Féin also has questions to answer to S.I.P.O. I estimate that this is the tip of the iceberg. I have no doubt that people up and down the country have questions to answer. Because of diligent journalists and whistle-blowers, requests to correct the record will be the order of the day.

My concern with the system is that people keep finding ways around the rules to either ‘wash’ some donations or hide the name of the donor. The most popular way to distance one-self is to lodge a donation into a local party account and during an election it would be released to the candidate as a contribution to the cost of posters! Persons buying tickets to a draw or fundraiser function is another way to muddy the waters. My point is there are many ways to massage the flow of contributions. I feel that the system needs to get serious about this practice. The government must give S.I.P.O. much more powers and resources. In practice, they wait for a written complaint before an earnest investigation. They should work like the Revenue and seek out the leads, follow the money and follow up with appropriate sanctions. I won’t be holding my breath. Quality investigative journalists are what we have to rely on for now. n

Minister Paschal Donohoe

Ireland has lowest number of politicians per capita - Senator Malcolm Byrne

Ireland has fewer politicians per capita than all other EU member states and several other democracies. We also have a system of Local Government that has far fewer powers than most other countries. These are the findings of a piece of research published last month by Fianna Fáil Senator from Gorey, Malcolm Byrne His report, “Undervalued and Underrepresented: Local Government in Ireland Compared with Other Democracies” examined how local democracy operates in Ireland and in 34 other jurisdictions (the other 26 EU member states; the United Kingdom (and its constituent parts), Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States). The study found that Ireland continues to have a very centralised system of government and that local Councils here have continued to lose powers, making local administration in Ireland among the weakest in the democratic world.

Senator Byrne also found that each of the 949 Councillors in Ireland represents on average 5,399 people, meaning Ireland has fewer local elected representatives per capita than any other country. In similar-sized countries, the ratio is far lower. For example, in Denmark, each of their 2,432 Councillors represents on average 2,399 people; in Finland, their 8,859 represent on average 627 people; and in Slovakia, each of their 20,646 Councillors represents an average of 265 inhabitants. In Northern Ireland, the ratio is one Councillor per 4,119 people.

He pointed out, “Exact direct comparisons are not possible, and in some countries the powers of Councils vary depending on their size. But in almost every case, even small Councils in other countries have more powers than in Ireland, including in areas such as education, policing, healthcare and elder care. There has been a steady and continual erosion of local government powers in Ireland. This has had an impact on our national legislature which see TDs and Senators spend significant amounts of time on local issues, while many local Councillors feel they lack power to influence decisions in their communities.”

“If the Department of Local Government is serious about its remit for local democracy, we will see proposals for greater devolution of powers. There is an ideal opportunity to test this with the planned election for a Directly Elected Mayor for Limerick. I suspect the Department officials want this to be a toothless and tokenistic office: we need to challenge this if it happens.”

Senator Byrne, who previously served on Wexford County Council, noted, “Irish politicians have always been very accessible to our constituents but there are fewer of us than in any other democracy. Unlike in Dáil elections, where the number of TDs is determined by the size of the population, that does not happen for local elections. The role of the Councillor is increasingly becoming full-time and, with a growing population, Councillors have to represent more people than ever before.” n

SEE TABLE BELOW FOR RATIO OF COUNCILLORS PER CAPITA IN 35 COUNTRIES

This chart does not allow for exact comparisons, as some countries have local elected officials at different levels. The range of powers and responsibilities varies extensively. However, it does allow for a comparison of the total number of elected local representatives in each country.

Enniscorthy Community College

Great range of courses available at Enniscorthy Community College. Check them out at: https://www.enniscorthyccfe.ie/prospectus/mobile/index.html n

Information sharing

Wexford County Council has developed a free online information sharing portal for not-for-profit community owned facilities to inform the public and promote usage. You can submit facility details at: https://arcg.is/1nnjev n

ENNISCORTHY FÁILTE

WELCOMING UKRAINIAN REFUGEES

CONTACT DETAILS: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthyfailte Email: enniscorthyfailte@gmail.com

Enniscorthy Library events

For upcoming Enniscorthy Library events see: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthylibrary n

Oulart storytelling house

At Bygone Days Storytelling House in Oulart, a great welcome awaits all, with good music, songs, stories and plenty of craic, tea and refreshments served. Eircode: Y25 YP70. For details of upcoming events keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/bygonedayshouseofstories n

Enniscorthy Toastmasters

Keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorthy-Toastmasters-129333810455771 for news of upcoming meetings at The Bailey, Enniscorthy, the second Tuesday of every month. n

HOSPITAL CRISIS

The crisis regarding lack of beds in our hospitals continues. The experts say that we require at least another 5,000 beds immediately. This is obviously not going to happen so for the foreseeable future we will see people on trolleys. Governments over the past 20 years have removed at least 10,000 beds from the system in the name of efficiencies and specialisation. Now we see the result. Chaos. No other word to describe it. When will we see the 5,000 extra beds and the trained staff to look after those who occupy them? Judging by the pace of everything else they do in Ireland, I’d guess 20 years. By then we’ll probably need another 5,000. Aw well, such is life in this country.

REMOVING SUBSIDIES

Our esteemed Transport Minister Eamon Ryan has said that he expects the subsidies of 20c per litre to be removed from petrol and diesel at the end of February. The country can’t afford it he says. The average punter driving to work and so on had better step up to the mark and accept their responsibilities and cut down on the use of these awful products, seems to be Eamon’s thinking. Easy for a guy cycling around Dublin on a salary of €3,536 a week to think that way. On top of that, Eamon has seven special advisors to make his job easier. They are costing us a combined total of €15,500 each week plus, of course, expenses etc. No bother to those boys and girls to fork out a few cent more per litre for diesel or petrol.

Just for the record, please note that none of our TDs or Senators will have to worry about the increase either because they get paid to go to work. For instance, a TD in Dublin who lives two kilometres from Leinster House receives €200 a week to travel to work. Oireachtas members who live outside Dublin get much more, average €500 per week and are even allowed claim for travel during the

View from the Centre

local government was a disgraceful one and left towns totally under represented. The accompanying changes to the county council districts, then and since, have also resulted in confusion. Co. Wexford is a joke with the Gorey-Kilmuckridge district running from Gorey to Oylegate. The vast majority of people in the southern part of that district would regard Enniscorthy, rather than Gorey, as their local town. The old Co. Council districts were much more cohesive and representative of the people in the areas covered. At this stage, some people don’t even know what district they are in with parts of the south county changing like musical chairs between Wexford, New Ross and Rosslare.

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

holidays when the Dáil isn’t sitting. So folks, expect your daily travel to work to increase enormously in the next couple of weeks because us little folk have to pay for the privileges of our masters.

TOWN COUNCILS

Many politicians over the last few years have decried the abolition of City Borough Councils, Town Councils and other smaller tiers of local government. The latest being Senator Malcolm Byrne. The decision in 2014 to wipe out that layer of

Someone with a bit of intelligence, rather than a college degree or a position in the public service, needs to look at this and put it right. But then someone needs to find Shergar as well so that’ll probably happen first.

FINALLY

As we approach Spring, it’s great to be looking forward to the longer evenings, brighter days and better weather generally. It cheers us all up after what has been a winter of rain, not much cold weather, and the usual doom and gloom which is showered on us each year come October. Those of us of a certain age have got to the point where we ignore all this mantra and just get on with our lives as we did for so many winters. (See my last column on this issue). I for one am looking forward to the work of the local council and volunteers who do a tremendous job in Enniscorthy each year beautifying our public and open spaces which not only physically enhances the place but has a huge impact on the wellbeing of all who live here and travel through here. So despite it still being early February, roll on Spring and let’s get out and enjoy it. n

“The experts say that we require at least another 5,000 beds immediately.”

Progress on Wexford’s third level site

Wexford County Council has commenced the Compulsory Purchase process in Wexford Town for the planned new Wexford Campus of the South East Technological University (SETU) and an inner relief road. This is the next step in the process of building a state-of-the-art higher education facility

in Co. Wexford, and is a very positive move. The matter will now be submitted to An Bord Pleanala for confirmation. The compulsory purchase move has been welcomed by local politicians and TDs, and no doubt by potential students and their parents in the catchment area. n

Social prescribing in Co. Wexford

The Wexford Social Prescribing Service is a free support provided by Wexford Local Development (WLD), that aims to reduce social isolation and improve people’s health and wellbeing.

The purpose of Social Prescribing is to work with individuals to help empower them to take control over their own health and wellbeing. The programme is for anyone who feels they need some support e.g. if they are feeling lonely, stressed, anxious or depressed.

Social Prescribing helps people identify local activities and services e.g. exercise, art, reading, gardening etc which they can benefit from and supports them to start engaging. There may also be an opportunity to attend self-help sessions such as stress control.

The service is available in the following catchment areas: Wexford Urban, Taghmon, Enniscorthy Urban, Oylegate.

Social Prescribing can help you:

Learn a new skill/revisit an old hobby

Improve your health and wellbeing

Meet new people

Increase self confidence and self-esteem

Become involved in your community

How it Works

Your GP or other health professional will refer you to the Social Prescribing link worker or you can refer yourself. The link worker will then meet you to discuss your needs and the various Social Prescribing options available. You then begin your chosen activity with support from the link worker who will make contact with you after a number of sessions to discuss how you are getting on.

If you are interested in participating in the Social Prescribing for Health and Wellbeing Programme, talk to your GP or other health professional or contact Deirdre Earle who is the local WLD Social Prescribing Link Worker.

Deirdre Earle: 087 2124244. dearle@wld.ie n

Above: At the Delightful Dollies Women’s Group open morning on Wexford Social Prescribing, 18th January 2023, L-R: Mary Brady, Lis O’Brien, Patricia Wheeler and Anne Collins.

Below: Julie Grant, Deirdre Earle (Wexford Social Prescribing Link Worker), and Winnie Connolly (Chairperson, Delightful Dollies).

Bottom left: Bridget Major.

Bottom right: Eileen Owens, Helen Wildes, Deirdre Earle (Wexford Social Prescribing Link Worker) and Catherine Wall.

Wexford chosen for new consul position

The Embassy of France in Ireland has announced the creation of a new consular agency of France, based in Wexford, with jurisdiction over counties Wexford, Wicklow, Carlow, Kilkenny and Laois – a region historically, culturally and geographically close to France. The new French honorary consul will provide assistance to French people and save applicants from having to travel to the French embassy in Dublin for some administrative processes. This important announcement was made by Mr Vincent Guérend, French Ambassador to Ireland, on a visit to Co. Wexford on 30th January 2023, taking in Ferns, Kilrane, Wexford Arts Centre and the Irish National Heritage Park at Ferrycarrig. This was the ambassador’s fifth visit to Co. Wexford since his appointment by the President of the French Republic, Mr. Emmanuel Macron, on 23 September 2020.

Since 1st January 2021, France has become Ireland’s closest EU neighbour, and a particularly fruitful partnership with Wexford and the surrounding counties has been developing. Not only are there two well-established French companies (Danone and Servier) in this particular region, but also approximately 650 French citizens living here, and thousands of French tourists visiting this region each year thanks to frequent maritime connections (Port of Rosslare –

Dunkirk, Le Havre, Cherbourg) which have grown from a dozen or so scheduled services every week to now almost 50 per week.

The new honorary Consul will be appointed this year and according to the ambassador he/she will have three main functions: To assist French citizens living in this region, to promote cultural and other ties, and to promote economic growth. The work of the new honorary consul agency will also enhance the profile of France in the South East region of Ireland and further the development of bilateral relations.

The appointment of an Honorary Consul in Wexford is particularly timely in 2023, the 225th anniversary of the French landing in Co. Mayo, led by General Hum-

bert on 22nd of August 1798. Many of the important events of 1798 took place in Co. Wexford so we can expect a number of events to take place here during the year to celebrate the historical and cultural links between both countries. n

L-R: Maura Bell (Mayor of Wexford), Elizabeth Whyte (CEO, Wexford Arts Centre) making a presentation to Vincent Guérend (French Ambassador to Ireland), and Cllr George Lawlor (Cathaoirleach Wexford Co. Council).

At the ambassador’s visit, Catherine McPartlin (Treasurer, Wexford-Normandy Cultural Association), Padraig Byrne (journalist), Rosemary Hartigan (Chairperson, Wexford Arts Centre).

Maura Bell (Mayor of Wexford), Julien Bouchez (French Embassy), Vincent Guérend (French Ambassador to Ireland), and Cllr George Lawlor (Cathaoirleach Wexford Co. Council).

Paul helps raise €50k for brain injury charity

Legendary Irish footballer Paul McGrath is a longtime supporter, fundraiser and ambassador for Acquired Brain Injury Ireland which has a strong presence in Co. Wexford with a residential home in Ballymurn and a day service in Drinagh. Paul’s recent annual golf classic together with a Step-up Challenge fundraiser and Bake for Brain Injury raised over €50,000 in total for the charity. On 30th January at Min Ryan Park in Wexford town, Paul presented the proceeds.

Above: Co. Wexford staff of Acquired Brain Injury Ireland with Paul McGrath, L-R: Charlene Rath, Tracey Jennings, Paul McGrath, Marie Louise Hore and Natasha Sinnott.

Above right: Paul is always willing to lend a hand, pictured with Tom O’Connor

Below: Paul with Acquired Brain Injury Ireland staff and service users.

Interested in volunteering ?

An Information Evening will be held in Enniscorthy Library on Thursday 9th February at 6.30pm where one can learn more about volunteering in Co. Wexford.

As part of the 'An Evening With Series', Wexford Volunteer Centre’s Development and Placement Officer Eva is hosting this information evening with En-

Supporting families with rare diagnoses

A NEW WEXFORD GROUP HAS BEEN SET UP TO SUPPORT FAMILIES WHO HAVE MEMBERS WITH RARE DISEASE DIAGNOSES. Their Facebook page is run by three local parents who have children with rare diseases. You can make contact with the group through that page.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087341630173

niscorthy Red Cross and the Let's Get Talking organisation.

Admission is free but booking is essential: wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/3999881

St Senan’s Choir CD

Congratulations to St. Senan’s Parish Choir on the launch of their new CD “Together Again” –a fabulous achievement.

The newly launched CD is a mix of songs and hymns with something for everyone. It’s local, homegrown, and at €10 it would make a great present for someone you know.

New community funding of €1.5m

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has confirmed that County Wexford communities will benefit from an allocation of €1,509,870 through the Community Recognition Fund.

It is available from the Parish Office or choir members and all monies raised go straight into parish funds. n will support “important projects to strengthen our community facilities in County Wexford. Local clubs and facilities can be refurbished, community amenities may be upgraded, equipment may be purchased to benefit local organisations. The fund will support projects that are accessible to all members of the community.

The funding will support communities that have welcomed people from Ukraine and other countries. Eligible organisations include sports clubs, community organisations, transport infrastructure and local groups.

Minister Browne outlined how the fund

“I encourage County Wexford community organisations to contact Wexford County Council’s Community Development section and outline your group’s plan to develop a high quality project”, Minister Browne concluded. n

Pulse Point App saves lives –download it now!

PulsePoint is an App available to the general public to assist them access an AED (defibrillator) in Enniscorthy and around Co. Wexford. The App allows the user to instantly see where the closest defibrillator is in an emergency.

Sports clubs, parish halls, schools, businesses etc countywide should get in touch now and register their AED. The ‘Add AED’ feature on the App can be used to to submit AEDs to the App.

The App is on Apple:

https://tinyurl.com/DefibApp-Apple and Android:

https://tinyurl.com/AndroidDefibApp

See ‘Enniscorthy Defibrillator Initiative’ on Facebook. n

Exciting times at Nolan Transport (see page 92 for full story)

In January, Nolan Transport officially opened a new €12 million Warehousing and Logistics Centre at the €50 Global Nolan Warehousing and Logistics Park in Wexford. Pictured L-R: Lorraine, Lucy, Aoife and Erica Nolan, Hannah Doyle, Bridget Nolan and Julie Doyle. Photo Mary Browne.

185 Wexford graduates conferred at January award ceremonies in SETU

History continues to unfold at South East Technological University with the final series of conferring ceremonies for the class of 2021/22 taking place on the Carlow and Waterford campuses last month. Over 2,000 graduates were conferred in January with awards in a range of disciplines, from technology, business and engineering to the arts, humanities and science bringing the total number of graduates in SETU’s first year to a remarkable figure of 4,733. Among these are 185 Wexford graduates conferred at the ceremonies in January. Graduates at the January ceremonies received awards ranging from level 6 to level 10, showcasing the valuable opportunity SETU offers learners to progress from certificate to doctoral level at any stage of their career. 31 doctorates were awared and the largest annual military graduation in the State from a higher education institution, with over 220 officers and enlisted personnel being awarded SETU qualifications.

Speaking at the ceremonies, Prof Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, acknowledged and celebrated the evolving nature of how and when our learners access education, “At SETU we promote lifelong learning and our students join us from diverse walks of life and through different access pathways. While some of you came to college straight from school, others joined higher education later in life. Regardless of how you entered this institution, you are all leaving with a university level qualification that will allow you to pursue the next stage of your career with the appropriate skills, the ability to continue to learn and, as individuals, prepared and ready for the workplace.”

“We will continue the strong ethos of supporting access to higher education and in having in-place enablers to ensure that our students reach their academic potential. We will expand our research and innovation activities and engage regionally, nationally and internationally to drive regional economic, cultural and social prosperity.”

Prof Campbell concluded by reminding graduates that they hold a very special place in SETU’s history, they are the first graduates of South East Technological University. “Generations of graduates will follow you in ceremonies like this but you are the pioneers.” n

Amy Cleary from Wexford with Pet Master of Science in

Connie Murphy from Clonroche wit Master of Science

Below L-R: Catherine O’Leary from Camolin who graduated with a Master of Business, with Terry Doherty. Irina Karpenko from Fethard On Sea with her son Alexej. Irina graduated with a Master of Arts in Leadership in Early Years Education & Care.

Martin Malone from New Ross, with his wife Brenda, who graduated with a Master of Arts. Richard Spicer, with his wife Reena and daughters Diana and Ophelia, from New Ross who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Energy Management (Buildings).

Photo: Mary Browne

Pho

Photo: Mary Browne

Photo: Mary Browne

Photo: Mary Browne

SETU’s first conferring ceremony for Defence Forces personnel. Over 220 Defence Forces graduates received their academic awards at the Carlow campus in January.

L-R: Corporal Lily Ray from Carlow who graduated with Higher Certificate in Arts in Leadership, Management & Defence Studies; Sgt Sandra Murphy from Kildare who graduated with Bachelor of Arts in Leadership, Management & Defence Studies; SETU President Veronica Campbell; Sgt. Shelley Kehoe from Oulart the Ballagh, Co. Wexford; Sgt Nicole Whelan from The Curragh, Kildare, who graduated with Certificate in Leadership, Management & Defence Studies; Corporal Megan McEneaney from Dundalk who graduated with Higher Certificate in Arts in Leadership, Management & Defence Studies.

Congrats to Sgt. Shelley Kehoe from Oulart the Ballagh who graduated last month with a Certificate in Leadership, Management & Defence Studies from South East Technological University.

More than 220 military officers and enlisted personnel received their qualifications last month at the conferring of academic awards on members of the Defence Forces by South East Technological University.

This marks the first SETU conferring ceremony for Defence Forces personnel and their first time to receive their academic awards in person since 2019, and is the largest annual military graduation in the State from a higher education institution.

President of SETU, Prof. Veronica Campbell, speaking at the ceremony, acknowledged the specific skills of the Defence Forces, “As well as the advanced Masters-level courses in technical areas, I note that leadership is a theme across all programmes and I appreciate how qualities in leadership are so important for you as individual members of the Defence Forces – each of you will bring your own reflections, expertise and ideas to the tactical, operational and strategic facets of leadership that underpin a high performing Defence Force.”

Due to the nature of their military service, a number of the graduates were conferred in absentia as they are currently serving overseas in Lebanon, Mali, the Golan Heights and on other duties overseas. n

Photo: Mary Browne

ter, Sean and Marie Cleary. Amy graduated with a Medical Device Regulatory Affairs.

th parents Vera and Andy. Connie graduated with a e in Supply Chain Management.

Photo: Mary Browne

oto: Mary Browne

YOUNG LOCAL SCIENTISTS EXCEL

The Enniscorthy district produced two major winners at this year’s BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition held at the RDS in Dublin in January – congrats to FCJ Bunclody and Meanscoil Gharman, Enniscorthy.

Top photo: In the Social & Behavioural Sciences Category, The Williams Lea Ireland Award was presented by Senior Designer at Williams Lea Ireland, Ian Tate, to Aimee Farrell and Leanne Mahon, FCJ Secondary School, Bunclody, for their project ‘Vaping Unveiled – Harmless or Habit-Forming?’ Pic: Chris Bellew / Fennell Photography 2023.

Middle photo: Best project in Irish Award was presented by Head of BT Emergency Call Answering Service Michael Kelly to Clarisse Ni Chonchubhair, Patrick Cox and Sadbh Bonnington, Meanscoil Gharman, Enniscorthy, for their project 'Imscrúdú ar an Éifeacht atá ag Binaural Beats ar an gcodladh’ in the Social & Behavioural Sciences Category.

Pic: Chris Bellew / Fennell Photography 2023.

Bottom photo: JJ McGrath, Ryan MacSandair and Will Redmond from Meanscoil Gharman, Enniscorthy, and their project ‘An fheirmeoireacht uirbeach aon ait, am’ at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2023 in the RDS Dublin. Pic: Fennell Photography. n

Congrats to LEO Wexford

See story on page 88.

SEED HUBS

Free seeds to plant, share & swap

Wexford designers to showcase at biggest charity fashion show

Wexford designers Faye Anna Rochford and sisters Bláithín & Niamh Ennis will showcase their latest collections at Ireland’s annual ARC Fashion Show at the RDS Concert Hall on Thursday 2nd March.

The annual style extravaganza showcases the best of Irish fashion and millinery with proceeds from the gala going to the ARC’s Cancer Support Centres which offer a range of free supports to those affected by cancer. Hosted by TV presenter Claire Brock, the show will feature 26 designers who will showcase their designs to an audience of over 800 attendees. Produced by Eddie Shanahan, the show is the biggest of its kind in the country showcasing emerging and established Irish designers.

Wexford’s Faye Anna Rochford will unveil pieces from her FéRí fashion brand which is born out of creativity and nostalgia, designed to bring joy to the wearer. The brand features pieces that capture the energy of old and new, designed for those who want clothes they can love wearing, cherish and eventually pass on.

Gorey-based sisters Blaithin and Niamh Ennis will unveil their creative collaboration on the ARC catwalk. Bláithín is already a well-known jewellery designer,

much loved for her particular skill with her dramatic jewellery which includes feather-light earrings made with shell mesh, metals and Czech crystals. While Niamh will showcase looks from her clothing collection where she uses her signature style of layering tactile fabrics which shows through in every piece.

Sponsored by law firm Arthur Cox, The ARC Fashion Show will be opened by top Irish fashion designer and ARC ambassador Helen Cody. The ARC Angels sequence has become an integral part of the show each year and will see women who have experienced cancer take to the runway modelling one-of-a-kind hats created for the show by seven of Ireland’s leading milliners. Guests on the night also get to see spectacular collections by designers Sara O’Neill, Caroline Duffy, Kindred of Ireland, Laura Chambers, Gabrielle Malone, Helen Hayes, Char lotte Lucas, Caterina Coyne, Lia Cowan, Barbara Bennett, Not Another White Dress, Cobbler’s Lane, Linda Wilson, Caroline Mitchell, Niamh O’Neill, Hazel Greene and Niamh Daniels.

Tickets cost €60 and can be purchased via www.arccancersupport.ie and www.eventbrite.ie

Blaithin and Niamh Ennis

Faye Anna Rochford

PTSB now open in Enniscorthy

Permanent TSB is now open in the old Ulster Bank premises on Rafter Street with experienced staff including former Ulster Bank Enniscorthy employees.

The new Branch Manager Frank O’Grady and his team are looking forward to serving and supporting both personal and business customers.

As part of PTSB’s investment in Enniscorthy, it is planned to close the premises on Rafter St. for a full refurbishment from 24th of March to 17th April.

Frank O’Grady can be contacted by email frank.ogrady@permanenttsb.ie while their field-based consultant Mary Barron, who manages offsite meetings for both personal and business clients, can be contacted by email mary.barron@permanenttsb.ie n

Remote Work Information Session with Grow Remote at Enniscorthy Library on Thursday 16th February 6.30pm–8.00pm.

Are you interested in working remotely or learning more about it? Grow Remote can help you by providing the tools to:

➤ acquire skills to work remotely ➤ progress your career remotely ➤ apply to discounted courses de-

livered by Grow Remote

➤ find remote jobs online

➤ access Grow Remote events and community

➤ understand benefits and challenges of remote working

Admission is free. Booking is essential. wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/3999885 or phone the library on 053 9236055. n

Residents Association Grant Scheme 2023

Projects will be considered within private housing estates only which are designed to improve community facilities or enhance the appearance of the area concerned (maximum grant is €600). Works that will qualify include, but not limited to: Planting of trees, shrubs, landscaping. Community Development Initiatives. Promoting Social Inclusion. Promoting Local Heritage.

Application forms and full particulars are available from your local Municipal/Borough District Office:

Enniscorthy: Phone 053 923 3540 or email enniscorthy@wexfordcoco.ie

Gorey: Phone 053 948 3800 or email gorey@wexfordcoco.ie

New Ross: Phone 051 421 284 or email nrreception@wexfordcoco.ie

Rosslare: Phone 053 919 6913 or email rosslaremunicipaldistrict@wexfordcoco.ie

Wexford: Phone 053 916 6900 or email wexfordborough@wexfordcoco.ie

The latest date for receipt of completed application forms is 5pm on Friday, 17th February, 2023.

More information: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/community/supportsgrants-and-awards/residents-associatio ns-grants-scheme-2023 n

Johnny Mythen TD’s constituency office is open at Slaney Place, Enniscorthy. Tel: 087 114 2100.

Frank O’Grady and PTSB Enniscorthy staff. Pic: Enjoy Enniscorthy (www.enjoyenniscorthy.com)

Open Evening at Scoil Mhuire, Our Lady’s Island

Far left: Jeremy Costello and Mignon Underwood – members of the Parents’ Association. Left: Laura Moran who brought her Little boy Finn Moran to see the school. Right: Teaching staff – Mary Donnellan and Siobhan Gaul. Below left: Madison Step and Claudia Carr in the sensory area. Below right: Luke Underwood, Aoibheann Bates, Claudia Carr and Madison Step.

10th January 2023. Above left: A word from students Patrick Cheevers, Summer Corish and Bethany Nolan. Above right: Members of 6th class , Clodagh Carroll, Patrick Cheevers, Luke Underwood, Summer Corish, Aoibheann Bates, Bethany Carr, Joey Brezina and Madison Step. Below left: Bethany Nolan gives her account of the school. Below centre: Young Alex Moran looking forward to being a student some day soon. Below right: A new parent to the area seems very happy with the school as James Curtin talks with school principal Eimear Druhan.

Shopping made easy at Modern Day Curves

Modern Day Curves is a new ladies clothes shop, set up by local woman Liz Reville, based in the local community centre hub in Bree since September 2022. It stocks great quality, really affordable clothes from casual to dressy styles, in sizes 14 to 26.

The shop is open every Thursday to Saturday, 11am to 4pm. And if those days don’t suit, appointments can be made for Monday or Wednesday if required.

With lots of on-site free parking, wheelchair accessibility, spacious fitting room, and the added bonus of an adjoining playground for the kids, shopping at

Three footballing legends meet up!

Irish footballing legend Paul McGrath met up with two local footballing legends while he was in Min Ryan Park, Wexford, recently doing some charity work for Acquired Brain Injury Ireland.

Tim (Jobber) McGrath and Marty Hore were renowned Wexford soccer players during the 70s, 80s and early 90s and they were delighted to meet Paul who, as always, was more than willing to stand in for a photograph. n

A PERSON'S HOME IS THEIR SANCTUARY

A Bill introduced by Gorey Senator Malcolm Byrne that would prohibit protests outside residential homes could also apply where the principal private residence is a direct provision centre. The Fianna Fáil Seanad Group intend to move it to the next stage in the Seanad this term.

The Protection of Private Residences (Against Targeted Picketing) Bill 2021 is designed to ban protests against individuals outside where they live.

Senator Malcolm Byrne says, “If anyone is unhappy with government policy, they can protest outside Leinster House, outside Government departments or agencies, or out side elected representatives’ offices.”

“We need the legislation to protect homes. That applies to the tempor ary homes of those seeking refuge as much as to elected representatives. A person is entitled to security and safety in the place that they call home.” n

Modern Day Curves is a truly pleasurable experience. Tel: 087 203 2430.

Check out the excellent Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php ?id=100

Email: Ereville655@gmail.com n

Senator Malcolm Byrne

Proprietor Liz Reville

Crown Bar Staff Christmas P

Crown Bar Christmas Party L-R: : Shirley and Saoirse Wilson, Aaron O’Connor and Tanya Walker.

Crown Bar, Wexford, Staff Christmas Party, L-R: Colm Nevill

L-R: Aine McCarthy and Nicky Duignan.

L-R: Aneta Wojcik and Katja Roch. Louise W

L-R: Sophie Roche and Jade Scally.

L-R: Nikola Laze and Marie Therese Kehoe.

L-R: Metod Prijatelj, Aaron McGovern,

Party, 9th January 2023, Talbot Hotel

le, Michael Kehoe, Angela Devitt, Dara Cruise and João Ferreira. L-R: Rebecca Avtina, Patrycja Wesolowska and Georgina Steel.

Wilde and Jack Shiggins.

Frank Gallagher and Mia Cussen.

Matthew Colgan and Nicky Duignan.

Gilberto Santos. L-R: Aine Brauders and Alannah Finnegan. L-R: David Atkins, Dara Cruise and Darryl Hennessey.

Tirlán information meeting

Wexford regional Tirlán Farmer Information Meeting in Enniscorthy 18th January 2023, Riverside Park Hotel.

L-R: Roy Chapman, Vincent Gahan and Glenn Chapman. Pic: Patrick Browne.

L-R: Olivia Tracey, Joris Somers and Lisa Koep from Tirlan. Pic: Patrick Browne.

L-R: Brendan Hayes, Vice-Chairman Tirlán, Frank Tobin, Chief Investment Officer Tirlán, Jim O'Neill, Chief Operating & Consumer Officer Tirlán and Jim Bergin, Tirlán CEO. Pic: Patrick Browne.

L-R: Hugh Martin and Mark Morrissey. Pic: Patrick Browne.

L-R: Robert Barron, Battlestown, Co. Wexford and Bernard Lambert, Coleman, Co. Wexford. Pic: Patrick Browne.

Robert and Avril Jacob from Bunclody with Damien Sutton of Tirlán. Pic: Patrick Browne

Town eyesore up for sale

Fundraising for Bunclody’s Faye

After months of pain and distress and attending doctors and two different hospitals, it was Faye's mammy's gut feeling that brought her to A&E where she refused to go home until she got answers. Tests and MRIs that day, and more the following days, confirmed their worst nightmare for a second time.

Just a short four months after the passing of her twin sister Aimee in July 2022, who after a lifetime battle of illness and pain due to her disabilities and other complications, Faye at the young age of only 14 has now received the davasting news that she has a tumour in her pelvis and has her own long battle with cancer to fight.

Faye has already started her first session of chemotherapy in Crumlin's Children's Hospital. She will undergo several rounds of chemotherapy before travelling to Birmingham in the U.K. for removal of the

tumour. She will return to undergo more sessions of chemotherapy at Crumlin Children's Hospital. After this it is unknown what the next step will be for Faye. Depending on how the treatment goes, she may need more treatment or

removal of her hip bones may be required.

A fundraiser has been set up for Faye. Please donate what you can on: https://www.gofundme.com/f/helpfaye-fight-this-get-well n

Unit 1, Springvalley, Enniscorthy, is a semi-detached commercial unit situated close to Enniscorthy town centre. The unit itself is in need of refurbishment having been disused for a number of years. It has off-street parking to the front with large roller door access. It extends to approx. 262 sq mts. The auctioneer is local firm Sherry Fitzgerald (053 9237322) which is quoting €40,000 for the unit. Can anyone do the town a favour and purchase/renovate this eyesore which consistently loses marks for the town every year in the national Tidy Towns competition?

Grants under the Community Support Fund 2022

Wexford County Council in conjunction with Wexford Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) invites applications for funding submissions under the Community Support Fund 2022.

The Community Support Fund 2022 (CSF) is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development under the Community Enhancement Programme 2022. A total fund of €340,233 has been made available by Wexford LCDC to support small-scale projects for not-for-profit community or voluntary groups.

The maximum grant aid per project is €5,000, with a percentage of grants ringfenced for Women’s sheds projects (dedicated application form) and grants of €1,000 or less. Match funding is not required. All projects must be delivered by 31st August 2023.

The Community Support Fund will support groups, particularly in disadvantaged areas

• With their non-pay running costs such as energy costs (electricity costs, refuse charges, heating charges) or other non-pay operating costs for e.g. rental/lease costs, insurance bills. (Please note the time frame for costs incurred has been revised - now 1st April 2022 – 31st March 2023).

• Groups will also be able to use the funding to carry out necessary repairs and improvements to their facilities, purchase equipment for e.g. such as tables and chairs, tools and signage, laptops and printers, lawnmowers, canopies and training equipment etc.

Online application forms and programme guidelines are available at www.wexfordcoco.ie/csf

For queries please call 053-919 6000 or email community@wexfordcoco.ie

Closing date for receipt of completed applications is 28th February 2023.

Recruitment

Wexford County Council are looking for members of our community to join as Retained (part-time) Firefighters in BUNCLODY,

GOREY & NEW ROSS FIRE STATIONS

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.wexfordcoco.ie

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms is 5:00pm on Thursday 16th February, 2023.

Information Nights

Please come along to our information nights as follows:

Gorey Fire Station:

18:30 – 20:30 Tuesday 7th February, 2023

14:00 – 16:00 Saturday 11th February, 2023

Bunclody Fire Station:

19:00 – 21:00 Tuesday 7th February, 2023

14:00 – 16:00 Saturday 11th February, 2023

New Ross Fire Station:

18:30 – 20:30 Tuesday 7th February, 2023

14:00 – 16:00 Saturday 11th February, 2023

Fire Service staff will be available to answer any queries and explain the position of a retained fire-fighter in more detail. A member of staff will be available to answer any queries in relation to the recruitment process and the application form.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Community Employment Scheme

Wexford County Council has vacancies in the following areas of our Community Employment Scheme:

Job Description Location

Environmental Worker – 6 positions New Ross

Environmental Worker – 2 positions Rosslare

Environmental Worker – 4 positions Duncannon

Environmental Worker - 3 positions Wexford

Environmental Worker - 1 position Castlebridge

Duties to include:

• Environmental Worker - General maintenance, cleaning, planting and weeding etc.

To apply for any of the above positions and for further information please contact – Sean O’Neill, CE Supervisor, Wexford County Council on 086 9478001 during office hours 9am – 5pm or email sean.oneill@wexfordcoco.ie

The closing date for All Applications is 4.00pm Friday February 17th 2023.

Please note that persons applying for these positions must satisfy the Department of Social Protection criteria to participate in the Community Employment Scheme.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Wexford County Council has vacancies in the following areas of our Community Employment Scheme:

Duties to include:

• Environmental Worker - General maintenance, cleaning, planting and weeding etc.

• Library Support Worker - Support Work for Library/Archive Staff – Computer Skills Required.

To apply for any of these positions and for further information please contact – Bernie Lennon, CE Scheme Supervisor, Wexford County Council on 087 6575743 during office hours 9am – 5pm or email: bernie.lennon@wexfordcoco.ie

The closing date for All applications is Friday March 3rd at 4pm.

Please note that persons applying for these positions must satisfy the Department of Social Protection criteria to participate in the Community Employment Scheme. Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Tenders

The following tender competitions are currently active. If you wish to obtain further information, and make a submission for any of the tenders, please visit

Earcaíocht

Comhairle Chontae Loch Garman ag lorg baill dár bpobal le bheith páirteach mar Chomhraiceoirí Dóiteáin (páirtaimseartha) i Stáisiúin Dóiteáin Bun Clóidí, Ghuaire & Ros Mhic Thriúin

Ní mór d’iarratasóirí a bheith 18 mbliana d’aois ar a laghad agus gan a bheith níos sine ná 55 bliain d’aois ar an dáta is déanaí chun foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe a fháil. Ní mór d’iarrthóirí a bheith ina gcónaí agus ag obair laistigh d’achar réasúnta ón stáisiún dóiteáin le go mbeidh sé/sí in ann freagairt go pras do gach glao. Tá poist oscailte d’iarrthóirí fireanna agus baineanna. Is féidir painéil a bhunú ónar féidir folúntais a líonadh amach anseo.

Is fostaíocht pháirtaimseartha í. Mar sin féin, íoctar Coimeádán Bliantúil le comhraiceoir dóiteáin a bheith ar fáil le haghaidh glaonna i gcónaí. Ina theannta sin íoctar ráta in aghaidh na huaire le comhraiceoir dóiteáin as freastal ar ghlaonna agus oiliúint sheachtainiúil.

Tá tuilleadh eolais agus foirmeacha iarratais ar fáil ó, Seirbhísí do Chustaiméirí, Bloc F, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, Carraig Leathan, Loch Garman. Fón: (053) 9196000 nó www.wexfordcoco.ie

Is é an dáta deiridh chun foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe a fháil 5:00pm Déardaoin 16 Feabhra, 2023

Oícheanta Eolais

Bígí linn chuig ár n-oícheanta eolais mar seo a leanas:

Stáisiún Dóiteáin Ghuaire:

18:30 – 20:30 Dé Máirt 7ú Feabhra, 2023

14:00 – 16:00 Dé Sathairn 11ú Feabhra, 2023

Stáisiún Dóiteáin Bhun Clóidí:

19:00 – 21:00 Dé Máirt 7 Feabhra, 2023

14:00 – 16:00 Dé Sathairn 11ú Feabhra, 2023

Stáisiún Dóiteáin Ros Mhic Thriúin:

18:30 – 20:30 Dé Máirt 7ú Feabhra, 2023

14:00 – 16:00 Dé Sathairn 11ú Feabhra, 2023

Beidh foireann na Seirbhíse Dóiteáin ar fáil chun aon cheisteanna a fhreagairt agus chun seasamh an chomhraiceora dóiteáin ar coimeád a mhíniú go mion. Beidh ball foirne ar fáil chun aon cheisteanna a fhreagairt maidir leis an bpróiseas earcaíochta agus leis an bhfoirm iarratais.

Is Fostóir Comhionannas Deiseanna í Comhairle Chontae Loch Garman.

Córas CCTV Bhaile Loch Garman

Tá sé beartaithe ag Comhairle Contae Loch Garman uasghrádú a dhéanamh ar an gcóras teilifíse ciorcaid dúnta 33 ceamara atá ann i lár Bhaile Loch Garman agus 16 ceamara breise a chur leis ag 12 láthair nua ar an mbaile.

Is é cuspóir an chórais seo cosc a chur ar choireacht agus iompar frithshóisialta, sábháilteacht an phobail a fheabhsú, cabhrú leis na seirbhísí éigeandála agus cabhrú leis an Údarás Áitiúil i mbainistíocht limistéar poiblí ar mhaithe le leas an bhaile agus an phobail i gcoitinne.

Tá gach ceamara agus láthair ceamaraí i mBaile Loch Garman aontaithe i gcomhairle leis an nGarda Síochána.

Beidh pleananna agus sonraí na scéime molta ar fáil lena scrúdú le linn gnáthuaireanta oifige (9.30rn - 4.30in Luan go hAoine) ag Oifig Cheantair Bhuirg Loch Garman, 61 Réileán na dTarbh, Loch Garman.

Is féidir aighneachtaí nó tuairimí maidir leis an scéim bheartaithe a dhéanamh i scríbhinn chuig Angela Laffan Uasal, Bainisteoir Ceantair, Oifigí Ceantair Buirge Loch Garman, 61 Réileán na dTarbh, Loch Garman, Y35 EA00 nó tríd an Tairseach Comhairliúcháin ar shuíomh Gréasáin Chomhairle Contae Loch Garman ag www.consult.wexfordcoco.ie roimhe 4.00 in ar Dé Céadaoin, 15 Feabhra, 2023.

Angela Laffan, Bainisteoir Ceantair, Ceantar Buirge Loch Garman.

Wexford Town CCTV System

Wexford County Council proposes to install and upgrade the existing 33 camera closed circuit television system in Wexford Town centre and to also add 16 additional cameras at 12 new locations in the town.

The purpose of this system is to provide a deterrent to crime and anti-social behaviour, improve public safety, assist emergency services and assist the Local Authority in the management of public areas for the wellbeing of the town and the general public.

All cameras and camera locations in Wexford Town have been agreed in consultation with An Garda Siochana.

Plans and particulars of the proposed scheme will be available for inspection during normal office hours (9.30am - 4.30pm Monday to Friday) at Wexford Borough District Office, 61 The Bullring, Wexford.

Submissions or observations with respect to the proposed scheme may be made in writing to Ms. Angela Laffan, District Manager, Wexford Borough District Offices, 61 The Bullring, Wexford, Y35 EA00 or via the Consultation Portal on the Wexford County Council website at www.consult.wexfordcoco.ie not later than 4.00pm on Wednesday, 15th February, 2023.  Angela Laffan, District Manager, Wexford Borough District.

Scéim Fostaíochta Pobail

Tá folúntais ag Comhairle Contae Loch Garman sna réimsí seo a leanas dár Scéim Fostaíochta Pobail:

Post Áit

Roadside Trees, Ditches and Hedges

Wexford County Council wishes to give notice that under the terms of the Roads Act, 1993, landowners and occupiers of land are obliged to take all reasonable care to ensure that the trees, ditches, hedges and all other vegetation growing on their land are not or could not become a danger to people using or working on a public road.

Examples of hazards might be dead or dying trees, ditches or hedges interfering with traffic, blocking or impeding access to footpaths, obscuring road signs or obscuring a view of the road ahead.

You are required to fell, cut, log, trim or remove such trees, ditches and hedges. Adequate signposting should be provided and the Council and Gardaí notified before works commence. Hedge cutting operations should, as far as possible, only be undertaken outside the critical nesting period of 1st March to 31st August.

Tiomána Aicme B – 1 phost Fearna

Oibrí Comhshaoil – Ceadúnas

Oibrí Comhshaoil – 1 phost Inis Córthaidh

Oibrí Comhshaoil – 1 phost Guaire

Oibrí Tacaíochta Leabharlainne –2 phost Ceanncheathrú/ Cartlann na Leabharlainne, Carraig Leathan

Áirítear ar na dualgais:

• Oibrí Comhshaoil - Cothabháil ghinearálta, glanadh, plandáil agus fiailí etc.

• Oibrí Tacaíochta Leabharlainne - Obair Tacaíochta d'Fhoireann na Leabharlainne/Cartlainne – Scileanna Ríomhaireachta de dhíth.

Chun iarratas a dhéanamh ar aon cheann de na poist seo agus le haghaidh tuilleadh eolais déan teagmháil le do thoil le

Bernie Lennon, Maoirseoir Scéime CE, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman ar 087 6575743 le linn uaireanta oifige 9rn – 5in. nó ríomhphost: bernie.lennon@wexfordcoco.ie

Is é an dáta deiridh le haghaidh na n-iarratas ar fad ná Dé hAoine 3 Márta ag 4in.

Tabhair faoi deara le do thoil nach mór do dhaoine a dhéanann iarratas ar na poist seo critéir na Roinne Coimirce Sóisialaí a shásamh chun páirt a ghlacadh sa Scéim Fostaíochta Pobail.

Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.

Liability for damage or injury resulting from such hazards will rest with the landowner/occupier.

Ukraine Response

Ferrycar Staff Christ in the Tal

Above far left: Becca Flood and Nicola Somers. Above

Above right: Rolco Stigar, Sean White, Dylan Hore, Finn O

Left: Eryn Buckley, Eva Brazzill and Alena Listopad. Right:

Below far left: Natasha Lacy and Maria O’Neill. Below left: Wilctona

Below right: Anna Lipdoc and Eilish Usher. Below far rig

rrig Hotel tmas Party bot Hotel

e left: Neill Murray, Zivile Kirnaite, Alex and David Buki. O’Connor and Conor Walsh. Above far right: Eryn Buckley. Toni Clancy, Ella Barry, Katie Audsley and Nicola Somers. a Wiatronska, Orlaith O Hanlon, Cait O’Carroll and Hannah Murphy. ght: Debbie Donegan, Slavko Priscak and Rebecca Flood.

A night to remember for Louise

A special night of celebration took place in the Talbot Hotel, Wexford Town, on January 7th, in memory of the late Louise Young. Louise, from Murrintown, passed away suddenly on January 8th, 2021, from Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy. She was just 24 years old.

Louise was a young woman with epilepsy, and in the months before her untimely passing, had become an active fundraising and media volunteer for Epilepsy Ireland – running the VHI Women’s Mini-Marathon to raise funds for the organisation; and sharing her own journey with epilepsy to help raise awareness of the condition.

Despite their continued grief at the loss of Louise, her family and friends have pledged to continue her awareness and fundraising work, efforts which have led to tens of thousands of euros being raised for Epilepsy Ireland in Louise’s memory.

The celebration on January 7th at the Talbot Hotel was a special event to continue this work, while also thanking the local community who have generously supported all the efforts in Louise’s memory. It also was an opportunity to highlight how the funds raised are being used to improve the lives of people with epilepsy in Ireland.

The celebration was an occasion to enjoy a wine reception, great food, music and craic in Louise’s memory, and to learn more from and about Epilepsy Ireland from guests from that organisation who were present on the night.

To learn more about epilepsy & Epilepsy Ireland, visit www.epilepsy.ie

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER FOR LOUISE... The Louise Young Research & Seizure Alarm Fund Dinner Dance was held in the Talbot Hotel

A Night to Remember, L-R: Jonathon Baile,Claire Roberts, Ian and Becky Gray, Paula Brennan, Helen Hartigan, Jacinta Reynolds, Liam Hartigan, Julie Hogan, Jayne Hogan Martha Roche, Karen Codd and Declan Roche.

Left: Jacinta and Catherine Hartigan, and Bev Webster.

Right: Maura Bell, Mayor of Wexford, and Tracey Hogan.

Left: Pauraic and Madeline Quirke, Maura Bell, Mayor of Wexford and Anthony Browne.

Right: Lisa Foley and Catherine Somers.

Left: Margaret Hartigan, Katie and Jenny Young, and Michelle Gent.

Right: Sean and Catherine Kavanagh.

Left: Ceri Dobson, Niamh Dennis and Catherine Connelly.

Right: Kamila Morawska and Klaudia Kulakowska.

Angela Moran and Anne Dempsey.

Committee: Phyllis White, Laura Mooney, Maria O’Doherty, Patricia Murphy. June Ellard, Billy Hayes, Eileen Parle and Tom Doyle. Ronnie

Some of the organising Committee: Kerry Ann Kearns, Sharon Connick, Kevin Newport, Ronnie Doyle and Rosie Parle.

Breda and Mickey Sinnott.

Anne Carthy, Una Lovery and Eileen Lovery.

Rita Hasessy and Yvonne Burlington. Dianne Corish and Pat

Lillian an

Betty Walsh and Ina White.

Catherine and Pat Glanville. Doyle and Cllr Ger Carthy.

tricia Grindon. Paul and Patricia Kehoe.

nd Richard Davis.

Tony and Rita Murray.

The Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival returns this summer

The Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival Committee, working closely with Enniscorthy & District Chamber, are pleased to announce this year’s Festival – one of the highlights of the summer for families across the southeast – will take place from Friday 4th to Monday 7th August 2023.

It is estimated that the 2022 Festival attracted 20,000 visitors to our town and generated in the region of €2.5 million for the local economy.

This year the organisers of the Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival have partnered with The Rose of Tralee International Festival and are delighted to announce a new selection process for the Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival Queen, which will take place in The Riverside Park Hotel on

Friday 10th March 2023. The Festival Queen will not only be the Queen for the duration of the Festival weekend but will also go forward to represent the Festival and Enniscorthy at the County Wexford Rose of Tralee finals on Friday 31st March at the Ashdown Park Hotel, Gorey.

The Rose of Tralee International Festival Rose Tour will return to Wexford again this August, when the Wexford Rose will host 33 Roses from all around the world on a three-day visit to the county, generating huge international publicity for our county and local businesses.

Speaking about the Enniscorthy and Rose of Tralee festivals linking up, Enniscorthy & District Chamber CEO Jimmy Gahan said: “On behalf of the Ennis-

corthy and District Chamber, I wish the local Festival committee every success with this venture, and urge the business community of Enniscorthy to fully support this marvellous opportunity to be associated with the long-standing, world renowned, prestigious Rose of Tralee Festival.”

The application process is now open for potential Roses to enter the selection process and applicants may enter independently or with the support of a local sponsor.

If any of our readers know anyone who might be interested in entering, or indeed acting as an escort, please encourage them to take part. Applications can be made online by clicking on this link: https://www.roseoftraleecommunities.com The fee for a Rose is €100 and an Escort is €50.

If you are interested in supporting a potential Rose, and/or Escort, please make contact with the organisers through Maria Nolan 087-6644603 or Amanda Whitmore 087-4419140.

If you would like any additional information, please visit the Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival website www.rockinfoodandfruitfestival.ie n

Joy Quigley from Ferns represented Co. Wexford with distinction at last year’s Rose of Tralee competition.

Making the trip from Tipp for one night only for the Bailey Laughs Comedy Club February Show, it's Tom O'Mahony! And tickets are on sale now!

As per his long resume, Tom has starred as Tarquin in Damo & Ivor, Paddy De Pervert in Bridget & Eamonn, Host of the Buckshot Podcast. He has also supported The 2 Johnnies in both the 3 Arena and The Marquee in Cork, as well as some of the biggest names in comedy such as Tommy Tiernan, Neil Delamere, Michael Winslow (Police Academy) and many more. Tom is one of the biggest names on the Irish comedy circuit today, and a very proud culchie!

Organiser Blayne Hosey says, “We can assure you this will be a night not to be missed, as with all of the Bailey Laughs shows so far, there'll be a lot of craic to be had.” Support slots will be announced shortly.

To get in touch: baileylaughscomedy@gmail.com

For updates: https://www.facebook.com/baileylaughscomedy n

Astro Active Enniscorthy Walking Loop

New Cillian Murphy film all set for New Ross

The walking area at the Astro Active, Bellefield Road, Enniscorthy, is open during operational hours for use by the public. Access from Bellefield Road is via the preschool pedestrian gate up until 5.30pm midweek and access through the Astro Active Centre footpath.

Walking is a great form of exercise as it is low impact and enjoyable for all the family. The walking loop is wheelchair and buggy accessible and is ideal for small kids to practise on their scooters or balance bikes!

Exercise equipment was added in March 2021 and these are stationed in two areas along the walkway. Ask any of the staff to show you how to use these if you are unsure. And there are play swings for the younger kids up to age ten years, and don’t forget that after your walk you can enjoy a hot beverage in the cafe upstairs in the centre, which is open Monday-Friday until 8pm and 5pm on Saturdays.

For the winter months the pitch lights will be turned on early to keep the walkway accessible, so no excuse not to get out and about! n

A new Cillian Murphy movie based on the prizewinning book, Small Things Like These, by local, multi-award-winning author Claire Keegan is set to start shooting in New Ross next month.

The book was the winner of the Orwell Prize as well as the Kerry Group Irish Novel of the Year for 2022 and concerns coal and timber merchant Bill Furlong as he does his rounds in New Ross in the lead up to Christmas 1985.

Last November, the movie production team visited New Ross to scout locations, and even called into the local St Mary's school much to the excitement of the pupils there.

The Booker Prize judges, speaking about Claire Keegan’s work, said she is "measured and merciless as she dissects the silent acquiescence of a 1980s Irish town in the Church’s cruel treatment of unmarried mothers – and the cost of one man’s moral courage,” adding that, "The book is not so much about the nature of evil as the circumstances that allow it.” n

Cillian Murphy in his ‘Peaky Blinders’ role as Tommy Shelby.

Oulart the Ballagh Senior Citizens Party in Community Centre

Oulart the Ballagh Senior Citizens Christmas Party in the Community Centre, 8th January 2023.

Top left: Eileen and John McGrath. Top centre: Mary Evers and Richard O’Dwyer. Top right: Theresa Byrne and Breda O’Connor.

Above left: Marion Kennedy, Lucy and Pete Byrne.

Above right: Anne Quigley and Marion Kennedy.

Below left: Aidan O’Connor and Tommy Byrne. Below right: Eoin Hiney, Jim Doyle and Pat Dunne.

Bottom left: Anne Dunne, Margaret Doyle and Theresa Hiney. Bottom right: Terry and Joan O’Keeffe and Angela Farrell.

PLANE Movie Review with Kyle Walsh 

January is known to be a notoriously bad month in the film world. We get a lot of bad movies just thrown into the January slot because the film studios know they have duds on their hands. So for the movie-going audience, January is mostly a waste of time if catching up on the latest flicks in the cinema.

This January has been different than most with some good little films being released. M3GAN was made for 12 million dollars and it’s after taking in well over 100 million dollars. We had TILL – a really good film based on a true story. So it has been an interesting month which makes me excited for the year ahead. I’m expecting a really good year at the movies.

I recently headed to the cinema to see the new Gerard Butler movie, PLANE. I saw the trailer for this a few months ago and I thought it was a terrible trailer. The film looked to be made on a cheap budget. It actually looked like an episode out of the ATeam. So I wasn’t expecting much from this at all. I have to tell ye, I was surprisingly happy with this action flick. This was a throwback to the 80s and 90s action movies that I grew up with. Yes back then we had Stallone, Schwarzenegger, Van Damme, and Co, now we have the likes of Butler and some of his action movies have been disappointing, so it’s good to see him finally getting a really good action movie on his CV for a change.

There’s no doubt he always gives it his all in his roles and all he can

do is his best with whatever the script allows of him as an actor. I thought he was really good as Captain Brodie Torrance who is to bring a few passengers and a convict in handcuffs on a plane journey that doesn’t end up being your typical plane journey. You just know things are about to get messed up.

Brodie asks questions – why are they going to fly when it’s obvious there is a storm coming. He is told that he will make the flight before the worst of the weather. We learn that he has a daughter that he wants to get home to see. So before you can say Plane, they’re hit by the storm and have to do their best to land the plane. This is a sequence that’s well done and very tense, I didn’t take my eyes off the screen.

Landing the plane is one job, surviving where they landed is a completely different job. Worse. The action kicks off and never lets up to the very end. There’s a brilliant fight sequence that was done in one shot and Butler throws himself at it like a seasoned stuntman. Like I said, he really gives it his all here. Will they survive the horrible place they land in? Will the convict be a danger to the other passengers? Will Butler get to see his daughter? Yes, it’s all a bit predictable like all these action films but trust me you will have great fun watching this. A great way to pass an hour and 45 minutes. A good oldfashioned action movie like the way they used to make them. I would jump back on that plane and go on the adventure again no problem.

Check it out folks, it gets a good 7/10 from me for an action movie released in January. n

Julie Fox is a qualified Yoga teacher and Reiki level 2 practitioner. She holds an Advanced Diploma in Psychotherapy & Hypnotherapy, works as a Recovery Education facilitator with Mental Health Ireland and has 20 years experience as a Social Care practitioner. The always-busy Julie also runs retreats under the name ‘Fox&Hen Retreats’ at the beautiful Sweetfarm Studios, Kilcarbry Cottage, just five minutes from Enniscorthy (check it out on Facebook and Instagram). Writing is another one of Julie’s interests, ‘Sharing my writing in a way that brings healing, laughter and inspiration to others, is a huge passion of mine.’ This new monthly column allows Julie to share her love of both yoga and writing.

The word ‘Yoga’ seems to stir up a lot of ideas and expectations of both the person practising and teaching this art form. I myself had all of these notions and high ideals (I still do) of what Yoga is and should be!

The shoulds such as:

 I should be fit and skinny to practise Yoga.

 I should be a vegan to teach Yoga.

 I should be peace, love & happiness 24/7!

 I should not feel angry or be seen eating a sticky toffee pudding down the town.

What a load of nonsense and just another excuse to avoid engaging in this beautiful practice.

Yoga is a way of Life. It is an invitation to deeply reconnect with yourself – your body, your mind, and your spirit. It is an opportunity to be gentle with yourself and really dig under those layers of shame and shoulds so that compassion can re-emerge. When we have compassion for ourselves – our hard edges will soften and life becomes kinder.

I started on the Yoga journey over 25 years ago, plucking up the courage to attend a Yoga class back when I was a student in college. I was suffering with debilitating panic and anxiety attacks, feeling inferior, constantly pushing myself toward some non achievable idea of perfection. I am sure a lot of you can relate. This seems to be the human con-

dition but yet I felt alone and lost. I can’t preach that Yoga saved my life or everything was just resolved once I engaged in this practice. However, the philosophy and wisdom of Yoga gave me the tools and understanding of what Life is about and how to care for and nurture myself on a daily basis.

The tools of breathwork – Pranayama are in my opinion life changing when utilised on a daily basis. Prana meaning Life energy and Yama means control. By focusing on and calming our breath we have the power to calm our minds – we can learn to ground all those thoughts that are not serving us and connect to the present – the NOW.

I could talk forever about Yoga and I am still learning every day about this ancient wisdom. I have so much gratitude to those who attend my yoga class each week. I learn so much from all of my students – I truly believe that we all carry a well of wisdom and gifts inside of us and it is important that we recognise and share them.

I am so looking forward to next month where I will again share all things Yoga. As they say – Namaste

– JULIE FOX

086 0263713

Facebook: ‘Yoga With Julie’

Pay-as-you-go Yoga classes, €10, suitable for Beginner-Intermediate levels at: Galbally Community Centre, Mondays at 7pm, and at Sweetfarm Studios, Kilcarbry Cottage, Enniscorthy, Thursdays at 7pm.

Dancing with Declan

Keep up to date with the local dancing scene on: https://www.facebook.com/DancingwithDec

https://www.facebook.com/socialdancingdateswexford n

Wexford Arts Centre

For details and updates on all happening in Wexford Arts Centre: https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.com/shows n

What’s On Wexford

Opinion You Didn't Ask For Podcast

Check out

https://www.facebook.com/groups/WexfordEvents for the best listing of what’s happening all over Co. Wexford. n

Enniscorthy Library

Wexford Public Libraries' YouTube Channel...

Make sure to check out Wexford Public Libraries' YouTube channel. Catch up with all the events you may have missed or would like to watch again, as well as handy guides and tutorials for accessing Wexford Public Libraries' e-services. n

Baby & Toddler Time at Enniscorthy Library...

Every Tuesday at 10:30am Enniscorthy Library is delighted to welcome parents and guardians with their little ones for fun rhymes, stories and songs. Suitable for ages 0-4. The relaxed and friendly environment of the library is the perfect setting to make friends and introduce books and reading from an early age. Children must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.

Contact Enniscorthy Library to book a place:

Phone: 053 9236055 enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie

Events and activities...

https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/profile/37376 n

Stay in touch

Wexford Public Libraries Social Media: Wexford Public Libraries on Facebook.

Wexford Public Libraries on Instagram @wexfordlibraries.

Wexford Public Libraries on Twitter @wexlibraries.

YouTube: "Wexford Public Libraries" n

ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY

Email: enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie

Phone: 053 9236055

OPENING HOURS:

Monday 10.30am - 5.30pm (closed 1pm to 2pm).

Tuesday 10.30am - 5.30pm.

Wednesday 10.30am - 5.30pm.

Thursday 10.30am - 8.30pm.

Friday 10.30am - 5.30pm.

Saturday 10.30am - 5.30pm (closed 1pm to 2pm).

Closed Saturday & Mondays of bank holiday weekends. n

ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY

Lymington Road - Enniscorthy

Phone: 053 9236055

enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie

https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries

https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthylibrary

WEXFORD P at Nation

Above far left: Joseph, Alister, Amy and Hayden Laurence.

Above left: Lisa and Logan Wickham.

Above: Stephen Byrne as Atanazar. Left: Members of the cast and chorus.

Right: Some of the cast pictured at their last performance of the show. Below left and below centre: Members of the cast and chorus. Below right: Some of the panto’s leading performers and producers.

Ticket seller at Aladdin –Kacey Mooney.

Triya White and Yvette Walsh.

Niamh Bolger as Genie and Neal O’Leary as Omar.

Michael McKenna as Aladdin and Miriam Cullen as Princess Jasmine.

PANTO SOCIETY’S ‘ALADDIN’ al Opera House, January 2023

Aisha O’Neill and Aoibhinn Ryan. Taking it easy before the show starts.

Big fans of Aladdin – Lucy and Calliam Nash.

ARE YOU DANCING

Welcome to the February issue of the Slaney News where I'll be giving you all that's going on in the dancing scene around the southeast and beyond.

I suppose the biggest and saddest news to date is the closing of Harney's of Ballyedmond. A venue that was up to recent times the hub of social dancing. With three very successful nights every week and going back a bit further their Irish nights that were packed to capacity. Hopefully it won't be permanent and someone with new and fresh ideas might give it a new lease of life. We wish Anna and Ned Harney all the best as they have put so much of their time and effort into running the dances at their venue. And to give Anna every credit she tried everything she possibly could to turn things around.

So why the closure when so many new people are taking up dancing as a pastime? Well, there is definitely a shift toward bigger bands and singers associated with them. People new to dancing are not just into traditional quickstep and waltzing. They love jiving and line dancing as well. But it's frowned upon in a lot of social dance venues. That's fair enough if the people there

don't want change. But the writing's on the wall then.

I've written on more than one occasion here in the Slaney News that dance venues that were prepared to accommodate not just young people, but all new people to dancing, were going to capitalise. And the proof of the pudding was when John Molloy played in Oulart Community Hall last Saturday 28th January, over 150 people turned up. John was due to play five minutes up the road where he would have been lucky to get half that amount. The difference being, old and new were welcome. It was a right night according to all reports. Unfortunately, I had to miss it over our staff Christmas party.

And on the subject of the dance in Oulart, Tommy Sinnott who organised it is hoping to have more dances there in the future all going to plan.

Bree has announced a dance in June and I'm super excited about the lineup. Olivia Douglas, Stuart Moyles and The Tumbling Paddies who I wrote about here in a previous issue saying to keep an eye out for them as they were going to be making big waves in the music scene. Tidal waves as it turns out. Expect

Sad news: Harneys of Ballyedmond is closing. Right: Gavin Gribben ticks all the right boxes.

a huge turnout for this and I have tickets available at all classes if you're interested in going.

And on the subject of singers to look out for, Gavin Gribben is the man. He played recently in the Ardattin Inn and he ticked all the boxes as far as the dancers were concerned. Song choices, stage presence and a great personality all make for a new kid on the block which is so badly needed. And he's only 21 with a big smile and a talented musician. He hails from Mayobridge at the foothills of the Mourne mountains in County Down. And also keep a look out for my good friend Alister Fingleton who after a long absence due to illness is very much on the mend and raring to go.

Please support the parish dances as every person in the door is the difference between keeping going or having to throw in the towel. You don't have to dance. Live music is so different than just listening to records, tapes or laptop tracks. Kiltealy, Askamore, Drumphea, Camross, and now hopefully Oulart, run monthly dances. Enniscorthy's Southeast R'n'R Club have great authentic Rock 'n' Roll bands in the Bailey and the IFA centre. Des Willougby runs fortnightly

G? with Declan Flanagan

dances in the Ashdown Park Hotel. Richie Halpin has regular Saturday nights in the Rhu Glenn. There's a Sunday night dance in the Talbot Hotel in Wexford thanks to John and Leslie. If you'd like a weekly list sent free to your phone just give me a txt.

The Ardattin Inn is holding its own very well with both its Friday night and Sunday night dances thanks to a lot of hard work by Ger Mellet.

The Parkview House Shilleagh has put itself squarely on the map as a go-to venue on Saturday nights. Mellissa and Eugene leave no stone unturned when it comes to giving customers what they want, and I hear they have plans in the pipeline to extend their dance floor which would be the icing on the cake for what is an already fabulous venue.

New song releases:

Derek Ryan - "Pure And Simple". From his new album of the same name this is nice and lively. The album has a great mix of songs so well worth the purchase.

Ciaran Rosney - "Green Green Grass".

A recent hit by George Ezra and a great choice by Ciaran as regurgitating the same American country songs can become a bit monotonous. Very popular and I'm getting asked to play it at classes which is always a good sign.

Gavin Gribben - "Pub Crawl”. I'm delighted Gavin decided to release this lively version of Nathan Carter's 2012 song from his Wagon Wheel album as I have it nearly worn out.

Mike Denver - "Clare To Here". This

1976 hit from one of my favourite artists Ralph McTell. "Can you hear the old man, as he walks the streets of London", how many times have we heard that sung in the pub or at house parties. But it was while he was working on a building site in 1963 (the year I was born) and listening to an Irish gang talk about back home that he asked one of them called Michael, "You must find it strange here in London coming from Ireland?" To which Michael replied, "It's a long way from Clare to here." And the rest is history as we say. Now Mike's very lively version of this song is great but is going to take me a bit of time to get used to as I often sang it in many's a pub in London while I lived there. And for all of us emigrants, it really tugged at the auld heart strings.

So that's all for me for this issue of the Slaney News and I hope to see you all here, same time, same place for our March edition.

– Declan Flanagan

The Factory Girls A Review by Maria Nolan

Factory Girls, the play that propelled renowned playwright Frank McGuinness to prominence at the Abbey Theatre in 1982, was brought to The Presentation Centre stage recently, to the delight of Enniscorthy audiences, by Enniscorthy Drama Group under Director Pat Murphy, ably assisted by Joan O’Rourke.

The production, peppered with witty one-liners and humorous banter concealing many dark underlying issues, is about women and the exploitation of them, in the home, in the workplace, and by the Church.

It tells the story of five working women, whose jobs at a Co. Donegal shirt factory in the recessionary 1980s, are under threat.

The gutsy ringleader Ellen, played superbly by Kate Breen, conceals a tragic past; the attractive, carefree woman of the world Rebecca, aka Joan O’Rourke, is excellently cast as the dark horse of the piece; the factory veteran Una aka Anna Stafford gives an insightful performance as the suppressed Catholic spinster with the sad, uneventful life; the sometimes sharp-tongued Vera, very skilfully effected by Karen Franklin does her best to hide the fact that she is the victim of domestic abuse; and the baby of the piece Rosemary played to a tee by Madeline Breen, as the messenger girl, bullied by the rest of

the women and the butt of their many gibes and jokes. The two male characters are equally well cast, Rohan the young factory owner, aka Brendan Carthy, achieving just the right amount of uncertainty in his new position and total frustration with the women and Bonner, the Union representative, older and wiser in the ways of the world and the wiles of the female, so well accomplished by Niall Holohan giving the understated, laid back impression that he’s been there, done that, and seen it all before.

As the play unfolds, the women decide to stage a lock-in as a protest to the planned redundancies and increased productivity, being proposed by management, and then, like peeling an onion, the layers begin to fall away as the women reveal themselves and the many issues and injustices they are being subjected to. Brilliantly cast, this is a thought-provoking and oft times upsetting play as many of the issues alluded to are still with us and to the fore for many of today’s women, over thirty years since the play was first performed.

Full credit to all the actors, whose Donegal accents held throughout the performance, and well done to Karen Franklin, in charge of wardrobe, and Pat Murphy for set.

A production well worth seeing and yet another success for Enniscorthy Drama Group.

Kate and Madeline Breen.

– Words & Pics by Maria Nolan

Cathy Keane and Angela Keogh Waddock attending the play.

Brendan Carthy and Karen Franklin.

L-R: Kate Breen, Madeline Breen and Joan O’Rourke.

‘Farsiders’ returns

Enniscorthy Drama Group presents Farsiders by Fintan Kelly in The Presentation Arts Centre running from 16th to 18th February. This play is returning to the venue which hosted its initial successful sold-out run in 2022.

This coming-of-age tale is set in Enniscorthy in 1981. Friends Chopper, Hawk and Red work in the local unemployment office and plan to go to the rugby club disco at the weekend. Chopper fancies Mary but has never had the courage to ask her out. But so does Pat Corrigan who has been bullying Chopper since they were kids. Will Chopper finally get the girl of his dreams?

Tickets: https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/venues/126558151

After the above performances, Enniscorthy Drama Group will be taking the play on the All Ireland drama circuit to the following venues countrywide:

February 27th Kilmuckridge. March 2nd Gorey.

March 6th Doonbeg. March 8th Kildare.

March 9th Mountmellick. March 20th Carnew. March 22nd New Ross. March 24th Wexford.

The cast is:

Chopper - Tim Connaughton Red - Podge Dwyer

Hawk - Anthony Finn

Pat - Brendan Robinson

Jane - Niamh Crowhurst Mary - Maeve Ennis

Jenny - Roisin Barry

DJ - Liam Doyle

Bringing a production on circuit is a huge commitment, so best wishes to the Enniscorthy group with this ambitious endeavour. n

Rattlesnakes to be found in the Presentation Centre

Paul O'Reilly & Fintan Kelly present Rattlesnakes

Feb 10th - 11th, 8pm nightly in The Presentation Arts Centre

Tickets €10 Each + Booking Fee

Tel: 053 9233000 www.presentationcentre.ie

Rattlesnakes is a new one-act play by Paul O'Reilly, and is the result of the Creative Acting for Theatre Course that was facilitated recently by Fintan Kelly at The Presentation Arts Centre.

Rattlesnakes follows the story of three sisters at different stages of their lives and loves, and focuses on the varying relationships in their lives. Starring Leona Eustace Breen, Christine Quinn, Jennafer Riggs-Miller Boyd, Clodagh Doyle, Naoise O’Connor, John Kirwan and Paul O’Reilly.

The Rattlesnakes characters were created by participants in Fintan Kelly's Creative Acting For Theatre Course.

www.presentationcentre.ie n

Derbhile Graham, author and performer of ‘People Wipe Me’.

Friends help Thomas celeb

71st Birthday of Thomas A Walsh.

Above: Thomas was unable to celebrate his 70th birthday due to Covid restrictions but celebrated a year later with his friends in the Coast Hotel, Rosslare, on 7th January, with dinner, music and the craic.

Left: Billy Walsh, John, Thomas and Chris Walsh.

Right: Peter and Ella Hudson, Marie and Michael Power, Ollie and Isabelle Mahon and Gerry Foley.

Far right: Marion Calken, Thomas Walsh and Marion Flood.

Above: Stephen and Marie Redmond and Thomas Walsh.

Below: Colas and Theresa Lambert.

brate his 71st Birthday

Above left: Philip and Paula Stafford, Seamus Holmes, Thomas Walsh and Daphne Gethings.

Above: Old workmates, Mary Hayes, Margaret Stamp, Thomas Walsh, Carmel Currid and and Richie Rice.

Above right: John Roche, John Stamp, Phil and Catherine O’Connor, Margaret Stamp and Mary Hayes.

Left: Thomas Walsh cuts the birthday cake.

Right: John Walsh, Patricia Monaghan, Thomas Walsh, Chris Walsh, Kenny Devereux, Tommy Cunningham and Kevin Farrell.

Below: Joe Walsh, Richie and Angie Rice and Mary Walsh.

Below right: Friends of Thomas enjoying the dinner, music and craic at the Coast Hotel, Rosslare.

Celtic Roots return

The Bree-based Celtic Roots troupe is back in action with plans including travelling abroad this year to represent Wexford in both Lanzarote for the St Patrick's Day Festival and Laggenbeck in Germany in August to celebrate the local group’s 50th anniversary.

The group is organising a bingo day on bank holiday Monday the 6th of February in Bree Community Centre (Y21 XF95). The event will begin at 3pm and will include entertainment from the troupe in between each round. It promises to be a great afternoon for all ages with a raffle and spot prizes also. Bingo books will be €10 each and prizes will be going for one line, two lines and a full house in each round.

For more information contact Johanna on 086 0781371 or any member of Celtic Roots. n

Concert postponed

Unfortunately due to a bad fall and subsequent hospitalisation, Johnny McEvoy's early 2023 concert tour has to be rescheduled. This means his show in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, has been postponed from Thursday 26th January 2023 to Thursday 9th November 2023.

All tickets purchased will be valid for the rescheduled date in November, alternatively, a refund can be issued. Telephone 053 923 7800 for more information

We wish Johnny a speedy recovery and looking forward to seeing him perform in Enniscorthy later in the year. n

Starting a medicinal herb garden

Thursday 9th February at 7pm at Bunclody Library with Forager Feebee Foran.

Feebee of Forager.ie runs both foraging walks and workshops along with selling her balms, creams and tinctures made from herbs grown in her medicinal garden. Learn what to plant, and how to grow some common herbs that you can use in your everyday life.

Booking Essential. Ring 053 93 75466. n

Imbolc Celtic Winter Parade Festival of Light

The Imbolc Celtic Winter Parade Festival of Light takes place in Bunclody on 6th February. Keep an eye on updates on Facebook ‘Imbolc Celtic Winter Parade Festival of Light 2023’. n

Laura Franklin, Brendan Robinson and Kathy Bergin attending the recent production of ‘The Factory Girls’ in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy. Pic: Maria Nolan.

A ‘bird’ band to look out for!

Young Enniscorthy woman wins big at international ballroom dancing event

Congrats to Enniscorthy teenager and Coláiste Bríde student Jessica Skerritt on her success at the prestigious ‘Champions of Tomorrow’ ballroom dancing event held last month in Black-

pool’s famous Winter Gardens venue. Representing Ireland, Jessica brought home not one, but two trophies. n Right: Jessica Skerritt (centre) with her two trophies.

Fronted by Enniscorthy’s Eddie Keogh, Kingfishr [sic] are a Limerick based indie/folk band starting to make big waves on the Irish music scene including some prestigious support act slots with the likes of The Coronas and playing venues such as Whelan’s in Dublin. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kingfishrofficial

Making St. Bridget's Day Crosses with Michael Fortune

Friday 3rd Feb, 11-12.30pm, Bunclody Library

Join Michael Fortune of folklore.ie on Friday 3rd February in Bunclody Library for a free adult workshop in Making St. Brigid’s Day Crosses. This is a hands-on workshop, where you will make different styles of Irish crosses in just 90 minutes with one of Ireland’s leading folklorists and folk educators.

Alongside the making, Michael will informally chat and introduce the group to St. Brigid's Day customs and traditions found all over Ireland and chat about the different regional styles and designs. Materials will be provided and this is a must for anyone with an interest in St. Brigid and the coming of Spring.

Spaces limited. To book, please ring 053 93 75466. n

Producing ‘The Producers’

The exiles return!

Enniscorthy Musical Society is in its 50th year in musical theatre, and The Producers will be its 47th production – an impressive track record racked up by this local group.

A tremendous trio of Imelda McDonagh, Kevin Kennedy and Anne Marie Cooney are back at the helm for this upcoming springtime production, so a high standard can be expected. And rehearsals are underway in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy. See ‘Enniscorthy Musical Society’ on Facebook for updates. n

The Exiles from Slaney Street return for the annual fundraiser for the Wexford Hospice, on Saturday April 8th. The Old Fogertys have been learning songs from their 60s mix tape and have a great line-up of guest vocalists to join them in performing in Holohan’s on Saturday 8th April. Expect to hear songs like The Last Time, Satisfaction, You Can’t Always Get What You Want, Light My fire, My Girl, Stand By Me, Do You Love Me? You Can’t Hurry Love, Think, Fortunate Son, Where Did Our Love Go? Rescue Me, Son of a Preacher Man, Waterloo Sunset, Daydream Believer, I Say a Little Prayer, Dock of the Bay, Ohio, Hit the Road Jack, etc And if it’s like any other year there will be shenanigans!!! n

Premiere of ‘All in the Family’

Wexford Film Workshop's new film All In The Family will premiere in The Presentation Arts Centre on Friday February 3rd at 8pm. Get ready for a night of suspicion, shenanigans, fallouts, affection, and renewal! All in aid of Wexford Hospice Homecare.

The stellar cast includes Karen Franklin, Jennafer Boyd, Fergal Kelly, Jer Ennis and Pat Murphy (fresh from directing Enniscorthy Drama Group’s production of Factory Girls) and they are joined by Summer Venn Keane, Elaine Jordan, Lauren Jordan and Tony and Florence Jordan. Also joining the cast are Wexford town's very own Fiona McDermott and her daughter Lara.

Written and directed by Dick Donaghue and produced by Jer Ennis, this new family drama will do your heart good on Friday February 3rd.

Reception kicks off at 7.30pm with the premiere beginning at 8pm.

Book tickets (€10 + booking fee) here: https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.c om/ticketbooth/shows/873633172 n

Congrats Fintan

Enniscorthy’s Fintan Kelly has been nominated for a Green Room award for his superb performance in Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf which the Slaney News was privileged to see last year in Garter Lane theatre in Waterford. The production picked up eight nominations in total – fully deserved. Great to see nominations also for Co. Wexford’s Naoise Dunbar, Hannah McNiven and Garret Lombard. n

When it comes to family, anything can happen!

Writer and director Dick Donaghue. See page 10 for news of his new film being shot in Enniscorthy.

Acting nominations for all four cast members (pictured) and a best director nomination for James Power.

Chaplin hits all the right notes

New Ross Musical Society presents the musical ‘Chaplin’ from 7th - 11th March 2023 at St Michael's Theatre, New Ross.

Chaplin is based on the real-life story of Charlie Chaplin, the iconic film actor, writer, producer and director.

The new musical spans the comic’s entire career, from Chaplin’s first performance as a child in 19th-century London to his tearful acceptance of an honorary Academy Award in 1972. The show documents the beloved actor’s rise to fame and the people who shaped his life, including his mother Hannah, his older brother Sydney, his fourth wife Oona O’Neill and gossip columnist Hedda Hopper.

The musical dramatises the making of Chaplin’s legendary films, including The Kid, The Circus, Modern Times and The Great Dictator as well as his turbulent childhood, frenzied love life and political beliefs. It features an original score by Christopher Curtis, including “Look at All the People,” “Just Another Day in Hollywood” and “This Man”.

Chaplin tells the touching story of the man who makes the world laugh as his legendary screen persona, the Tramp, but struggles to find happiness in his own life. n

ONE FOR YOUR DIARY...

Mark it in your diaries and calendars, the Enniscorthy Rockin' Food & Fruit Festival returns once again this year over the August Bank Holiday Weekend.

More details to be announced soon so keep an eye on their Social Media channels for regular updates.

St. Valentine's Live Jazz

Some call it madness, but we call it love…. celebrate St. Valentine’s Day in 2023 with a Jazz at Johnstown live concert special on the evening of Saturday, February 11th.

Following several sold out concerts last year, the fabulous Chris Colloton Trio and chanteuse Sharon Clancy return to the intimate setting of Johnstown Castle for romantic jazz standards under the gentle glow of candlelight, and the influence of a glass or two of beautiful wine.

This concert sold out twice last year, so best to book your tickets early. The performance starts at 8pm. Romantic jazz has melody – the tune of the song – rhythm and lyrics – the heartbeat of the song – and harmony – notes that give the melody a fuller sound.

What sets Sharon and the Chris Colloton Trio apart in this two-set concert is their improvisation of classic romantic songs that get to the heart of that crazy little thing called love, as only excellent jazz performers can. n

Enniscorthy’s hidden gem

Enniscorthy’s Orchard Peace Park is very much a hidden gem running from Irish Street, near the entrance to Dunnes Stores, up to The Presentation Arts Centre.

Since it first opened a number of years ago, additional improvement works have

been done to make the park even more user-friendly e.g. footpath repairs and the provision of soak pits, macadaming the surface of the lower section of the pedestrian footpath at the Irish Street entrance, installation of removable bollards at the main entrance to the Park, fencing works

on the St. Aidan’s school boundary, removal of dead trees and shrubbery, etc. Enniscorthy Municipal District would like to see more use being made of the park. So why not pay it a visit some time soon and you’ll find yourself heading back there time and again. n

Treat yourself to some inner cleansing

Friends Eimear Hendrick and Julie Fox have come together to create "Fox & Hen Retreats". This new business venture is the result of their passion and belief in Wellness for Women & Wellness for All.

Check out their Facebook and Instagram Page "Foxandhen Retreats" for a look at the beautiful venue – Sweetfarm Studios in Kilcarbry.

Julie and Eimear are very aware that the last few years have been lonely, fearful

and traumatic for many people, and their hope is that they can provide a space for women to reconnect with themselves, with nature, and with each other.

Gift vouchers are available to treat the special ladies in your lives. n

Camera, Lights, Fashion!

Around this time each year, I very much look forward to receiving my invitation from Coláiste Bríde teacher Margo Whelan to take photographs at their annual Junk Kouture event. It`s an evening that never fails to inspire, amaze, surprise, and astound as TY students pull out all the stops to present an occasion of glamour, creativity, and vision, using recycled materials in the most imaginative way to generate absolutely fabulous, and sometimes outrageous fashion.

And this year was no exception, with the twenty-six lavish designs produced, using a huge variety of recycled materials, medical visors, trampolines, bin bags, fishing nets, conkers, teabags, butter lids, blinds, ladies tights, strawberry punnets, fruit pads, cotton string, net curtains, pillowcases, silage wraps, pipe shavings, burst soccer balls, tent ropes, flysheets, wool, wire, swimsuit material, turnip bags, egg cartons, medicine capsule packets, tyre tubes, covid mats, fire blankets, window tint scraps, Avoca blanket loom endings, yoga mat, rings from drink cans, coffee cups, video tapes, and onion bags with artistic titles like Glamactive, Electric Love, Conker Couture, Im-Mortal, Cerulean Angel, Carnival Beleza, Meriabella, No Taming the Flame, Banrion na Blathanna, Fast & Glorious, Rising from the Ashes, and Eclipse, to name but a few. This year many of the themes were woven around women, de-

signed to represent their empowerment, strength, and resilience, with world peace and pollution being favourite topics with the students as well.

Peace By Peace, a design inspired by a dress called ‘Vytynanka Soul’, modelled by Leah Connor and created by Leah, Adrianna Golub and Anna Buckley, had Ukrainian overtures, with traditional Ukraine flower designs representing the very difficult times the Ukrainian people have been experiencing and the hope for new beginnings in Adrianna`s home country.

Many of the elaborate headpieces were influenced by world renowned designers Christian Dior, Jean Paul Gaultier, Gareth Pugh, Valentino, and Marc Jacobs.

A stunning amount of local talent on display, and not just on the catwalk with Wexford Academy of Irish Dance delighting the large audience, along with top class entertainment from students Laura Da Silveira, Ciara Whelan, and Michelle Waruinge.

Everyone was a winner on the night and awards went to:

Teamwork Award 4A – Gracie Kehoe, Anna Dolan & Madeline Kirwan for Glamactive.

Teamwork Award 4B – Katie Doyle, Abbie Doyle & Aoibhlinn Ryan for Rising from the Ashes.

Overall winner, Carnaval Beleza, created by Caoimhe O’Leary, Amy Fortune and Leah Reck. Rona F

With Maria Nolan

Teamwork Award 4C – Mia Whelan, Teresa Hetmanska Kelly, Katelyn Larkin for Tropical Blues.

Purposeful Plastic Award – Karen Haydenm, Grace O`Shea & Ruth Doyle for Im-mortal.

Finishing Touches Award – Leah Nolan, Amelia Ogrodowczyk & Maleha Alam for String Sensation.

Glamour Award – Katie Murphy, Suzanne Crepak & Iria Alvarez de Eulate Brizuela for Conker Couture.

Creative Construction Award – Sadhbh Crean, Eva Mizane, Niamh Fenlon for Cerulean Angel.

Performance Award – Eilish Ryan for Eclipse.

And for the first time in the history of Junk Kouture at Colaiste Bride, the Students’ Choice Award and the Judges’ Choice Award went to the same design – Overall Winner – Carnaval Beleza – created by Amy Fortune, Caoimhe O`Leary and Leah Reck and modelled with style by Amy Fortune.

An extravagance of beauty, vison and style and an evening not to be missed. Well done Coláiste Bríde. –

Words and pics by Maria Nolan MORE OVERLEAF

an Furlong with daughter Amelia modelling Fast & Glorious made from tyre tubes.

Lights, Camera, Fashion – Abbie Breen Murphy, Ella O’Rourke and Aoibhean Dunne.

Overall Winner – Carnaval Beleza –Caoimhe O’Leary, Amy Fortune and Leah Reck.

Winner of the Glamour Award –Suzanne Czerpak, Katie Murphy, Iris Alvarez.

Caim Senior Citizens’ Christmas Party

15th Jan 2022

Top right: Helpers at the Caim Senior Citizens’ Christmas Party, Isabelle Kavanagh and Sarah Phylan. Above left: Helen Cloney and Margaret James.

Above centre: Some of the committee, Trish Dagg, Sara Sautdgs, Larry Kavanagh and Carol Phylan. Above right: Molly Fenlon and Breda Howlin.

Above left: Mary and Michael Harman. Above centre: Philip and Bridget Howlin.

Above right: Bertie Gethings, Peter and May Dagg.

Above left: Anne O’Gorman and Mary Kavanagh. Above centre: Gerard Flynn, Tom Earle and Pat Roche. Above right: Marlane and Barry Walters.

Above left: Eileen Ryan and Frances O’Gorman. Above centre: May Casey and Liz Ryan. Above right: Mary Doran and Anne Coleman.

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES

Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764. The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000

The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: (0402) 38529

2023 TEXACO CHILDREN’S ART COMPETITION LAUNCHED

The search to find the young artists who will excel in this year’s Texaco Children’s Art Competition has begun. Now in its 69th year, it is widely acknowledged as the longest running arts sponsorship in Ireland.

The closing date for entries is Tuesday, 28th February. Judging will take place in March with winners to be announced in April.

Details are available at www.texacochildrensart.com or at Texaco service stations throughout the county. n

Enniscorthy Library news...

On the third Thursday of every month the Adult Book Club meets in Enniscorthy Library at 7pm.

New Members are always welcome, if you are interested in going along please contact Enniscorthy library on 053 9236055. n

On the second Thursday of every month the Slaney Writers Group meets in Enniscorthy Library at 6:30pm.

New members are always welcome, if you are interested in going along please contact Enniscorthy library on 053 9236055. n

Enniscorthy Library... Enniscorthy Book Club

Check out the club’s Facebook page for full information and details on when the club meets up. https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthybookclub n

Wexford Co. Council’s art collection

Check out Wexford County Council’s impressive art collection on: http://wexfordcountycouncilartcollection.com n

The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy

On the third Thursday of every month the Adult Book Club meets in Enniscorthy Library at 7pm.

New members welcome. If you are interested in going along please contact Enniscorthy library on 053 9236055. n

Check out www.presentationcentre.ie for all upcoming events n

On the last Thursday of every month the Slaney Writers Group meets in Enniscorthy Library at 7pm.

New members welcome. If you are interested in going along please contact Enniscorthy library on 053 9236055. n

‘The Cliffhangers’ Junior Book Club is back in the Enniscorthy branch for its monthly meetings – usually the last Thursday of the month. It’s a great way to try new authors and genres and there is no pressure to read aloud.

New members are always welcome. If you would like your child to join, please contact 053 9236055 for more information. Suitable for ages 8–12. n

SOME UPCOMING MUSIC, DRAMA & POETRY EVENTS

A reading with renowned author Donal Ryan at Wexford Library

Join award-winning Irish author and professor of creative writing at the University of Limerick Donal Ryan (pictured opposite) at Wexford Library, Thursday 23rd February, at 7pm, as he gives a reading from his most recent novel The Queen of Dirt Island. He will also talk about writing and literature and a question-and-answer session will follow.

Booking is essential.

Visit https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/ to secure your place. n

RTE Concert Orchestra to take to the stage in Wexford

The world-renowned RTÉ Concert Orchestra will perform three diverse concerts in the O’Reilly Theatre of the National Opera House, Wexford, this spring:

Maria Callas – A Centenary Celebration

Tuesday, 21 February 7.30pm.

Thin Lizzy Symphonic

Thursday, 30 March 7.30pm.

Marty in the Evening

Friday, 30 April 7.30pm.

On Tuesday, 21 February, the RTÉ Concert Orchestra pays tribute to Maria Callas, considered to be the ultimate opera singer, in the centenary year of her birth. Stunning Wexford soprano Sinéad Campbell-Wallace will be joined on stage by the charismatic American tenor Noah Stewart to perform some of Maria Callas’ most iconic arias. The evening will be presented by Liz Nolan of RTÉ lyric fm and conducted by the equally vibrant Italo-Turkish conductor Nil Venditti, for a captivating night.

On Thursday, 30 March, the RTÉ Concert Orchestra brings its amazing Thin Lizzy Symphonic to the National Opera House after its huge outdoor success in Collins Barracks, Dublin, last summer. Special musical guests Jess Kav, Wexford’s own Wallis Bird, Jack O’Rourke, Shobsy and Tom Dunne will join the RTÉ

Concert Orchestra and its Principal Guest Conductor Stephen Bell to perform classics from the Thin Lizzy back catalogue.

On Friday, 30 April, fans of Marty Whelan’s much-loved breakfast programme on RTÉ lyric fm are in for a real treat as he brings his show, Marty in the Evening, to Wexford. Featuring a brand-new selection of music, audiences will enjoy an evening packed with some of Marty’s favourite and eclectic mix of music performed by the RTÉ Concert Orchestra with special musical guests and presented by the man himself – in his own unique style. Principal Guest Conductor Stephen Bell will once again conduct.

The RTÉ Concert Orchestra was established in 1948 and this spring marks its 75th anniversary. Voted the World’s Favourite Orchestra in 2015, the RTÉ Concert Orchestra is currently managed by former Wexford Festival Orchestra manager, Joe Csibi. Its eclectic programming such as these spring concerts has been key to its success among new and devoted audiences alike. Commenting on the upcoming spring concert series, Joe said, “It’s a gift to be free to travel and perform in the National Opera House with the opportunity of creating great and interesting musical projects for Wexford and the southeast of the country.”

For more information and to book tickets (from €20), visit www.nationaloperahouse.ie or ring the box-office at the Opera House, 9.30am to 5pm, Mon to Sat, tel: 053 912 2144. n

Sinéad CampbellWallace.

Marty Whelan

‘Not somewhere else but here’ an exhibition of work by Wexford artist Serena Caulfield

Wexford Arts Centre, Cornmarket, Wexford, Y35 X5HF

14 February – 23 March 2023

Gallery open: Tuesday-Friday, 10am-5pm / Sat, 10am-4pm

Opening Reception: Saturday 11 February, 3pm

Opening Speaker: Kevin Rafter, Chairperson of the Arts Council.

Wexford Arts Centre is pleased to present Not somewhere else but here, an exhibition of new paintings by artist Serena Caulfield. The exhibition will run in the lower and upper galleries from Tuesday 14 February to Thursday 23 March, 2023.

Serena Caulfield was selected to take part in the MAKE/Curate programme; a partnership initiative between Wexford Arts Centre and the Arts Department of Wexford County Council. The aim of the programme is to provide artists working regionally with an opportunity to work with national curators to critique their practice and introduce other areas of interest. Over the course of two years, Caulfield worked with Curators Marysia Wieckiewicz-Carroll and Cliodhna Shaffrey toward her solo exhibition at Wexford Arts Centre. Distinct from the curatorial support, mentorship was also facilitated by artist Sinead Ni Mhaonaigh.

Not somewhere else but here is a line taken from Adrienne Rich’s poem What Kind of Times Are These. The poem deals with uncertain and dangerous times but more importantly, its message is the responsibility to speak out against injustice and to listen when we hear others doing the same. Caulfield felt that it was all too appropriate for our current climate, despite being written nearly thirty years ago. This repurposing of the established is one of the most inventive and engaging features of her work.

Caulfield blends the traditionally patriarchal field of classical art with a fresh, current approach and a distinctly feminine vantage point. Her work includes re-imaginings of many classical artists’ works, including Jan Brueghel the elder, Frans Snyders, and Eu-

gene Delacroix. A subject that arises through this referencing, is memory and specifically the gradual distortion of memory. A number of paintings provoke a sense of déjà and viewing the work can feel like straining for a childhood memory that you can only recall in broken, faceless fragments with key elements missing. The fallibility of memory is given a dreamlike quality through Caulfield’s inclusion of local myths and the landscape of her home in County Wexford. The depiction of animals with night-time backdrops in particular, have an ethereal quality often found through dream or warped recollection.

Along with contemplating the reliability of human memory, comes the challenge to our notion of linear time. The reference to classical paintings contradicts the usual straightforward conception we have of development. Blending past and present together with such dexterity, Caulfield’s works show that art can transcend and be adapted beyond both time and gender. As the artist states; “My sources range from classical artworks to children’s drawing books, aural histories to local myths. Disobeying a linear art history while reclaiming it somehow in the present, I repurpose art history to play with its power, both visually and conceptually, imbuing the anachronisms of the past with the attitudes of the present.”

Not somewhere else but here will run at Wexford Arts Centre from Tuesday 14 February to Thursday 23 March 2023. The exhibition is supported by the Arts Department of Wexford County Council in partnership with Wexford Arts Centre through the Make/Curate Programme.

Wexford Arts Centre, Cornmarket, Wexford

Tel: +353 (0)53 912 3674 Email: info@wexfordartscentre.ie Web: www.wexfordartscentre.ie

Wexford Arts Centre is supported by the Arts Council and Wexford County Council.

For further information on the exhibition or artist Serena Caulfield please contact Catherine Bowe - Curator, Wexford Arts Centre, email catherine@wexfordartscentre.ie n

Serena Caulfield, Not Somewhere Else But Here, 2022, Oil on Canvas, 100x80cm Serena Caulfield, The Light That Gets Lost, 2022, Oil on Canvas, 100x80cm

After a hugely successful 6th Annual Open Call in 2022 where The Presentation Arts Centre gallery hosted 139 artists from all backgrounds and levels of expertise, the 7th Annual Open Call Exhibition is returning in 2023 running from March 6th to May 1st.

In what has been described as a staple of the arts and culture calendar in the south east, this show is open to any artist to take part. It doesn't matter what your technique is, or how professional or beginner you are, you are invited to showcase your work in the Enniscorthy gallery space. According to the Centre: “Animations, burnished prints, ceramics? Yes please. Drawings,

encaustic wax, fashion? Absolutely. Glasswork, hatchwork, installations? We love it. Whatever your style is, we'll celebrate it.”

Artwork Drop Off Days:

February 20th & February 21st, 10am - 7pm.

Official Opening & Awards Ceremony:

Saturday March 11th 6pm - 8pm.

Artwork Collection Days

May 8th to May 12th, 10am - 7pm:

Submission forms are now available to download on www.presentationcentre.ie or to collect in-person at the box office. n

Doomscrolling in the Presentation Centre

DOOMSCROLL – 6 blank scrolls where you control the narrative!

Doomscrolling is defined as the act of spending disproportionate amounts of time on social media, absorbing colossal quantities of negative information. Studies have discovered that doomscrolling can be linked to a decline in mental and physical health. It's a trap that's easy to fall into, and difficult to escape from.

A new collaborative exhibition in Enniscorthy’s Presentation Arts Centre addresses the doomscroll phenomenon with a creative tongue-in-cheek approach.

Each large scroll in this exhibition is blank, and accompanied with a selection of art materials. The public is being invited to create their own narrative, and leave their own visual story on these scrolls. Will you collaborate with others who have left their mark, or will you destroy an image and sow some artistic chaos? The choice is yours!

The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, Jan 21st - Feb 25th, Free Entry. n

Tried-Tested-Tasted by Caitriona

Caitriona Barron from Drinagh, Wexford, grew up on her dad’s farm with plentiful homegrown veg and their own meat so “we really knew the value of good food. My mother started a seafood business after meeting my stepfather fisherman, my brother now runs the seafood business so I’m well used to fresh food.”

“I worked with the family business before leaving to be a stay-at-home mother but soon got bored (lol!) and started taking pics of my food, sharing my recipes on social media. When people started showing interest, I realised this could be a job so I bought myself a camera and threw myself in the deep of it. I love it and I get to work with amazing companies. Seeing my pictures in magazines, in shops, and occasionally on TV is pretty amazing.

“I’m a mother of two boys and, yes, juggling it all can be very tough. But I keep it going as it’s my passion now and it’s very rewarding.”

https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted and Caitriona_barron on insta n

SPANISH STYLE POACHED FISH

25 mins, easy quick delicious meal.

Ingredients for 4 persons.

4 tbsps of Don Carlos extra virgin olive

3 cloves fresh garlic sliced

1 tin cherry tomatoes

1/2 cup chicken stock

1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste

1 large chilli sliced

1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper, or to taste

1/2 cup fresh parsley or basil leaves, finely chopped

2 tbsps fresh squeezed lemon juice

1 tsp fresh lemon zest

1/2 jar of Don Carlos black olives

For the fish:

2 tbsps olive oil

4 portions of cod or hake sea salt and pepper

Instructions:

Season your cod fillets with a pinch of sea salt and pepper.

In a large pan with a lid, heat mediumhigh 4 tablespoons of oil.

Add garlic and chilli, sauté until fragrant, about 2 mins.

Add tomatoes and stock, add more stock – increase to a cup if you like a less thicker sauce.

Season with sea salt and pepper to your taste.

Reduce heat to low, cover and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Next add in the basil, fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, cook for 2 minutes more.

Return your fish into the pan, drizzle a little oil over fish and cover cook for 15 mins.

Add olives for 2 mins.

Serve immediately with more fresh basil or parsley lemon and enjoy! n

Caitriona Barron

Delicious Spanish style poached fish. Pic: Caitriona Barron. https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted

Your

local

Slimming World Consultants in Enniscorthy

Providing you with a huge choice of sessions throughout the week:

Tuesdays @ 6.30pm

The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop

Call Tony on 087 1785384

Wednesdays @ 8.00am, 9.30am, 11.00am, 5.30pm and 7.00pm

Enniscorthy Rugby Club

Call Trish on 087 3607615

Saturdays @ 9.00am and 10.30am

The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop

Call Tony on 087 1785384

Growing your own herbs and veg

Join Carla King in Gorey Library on Thursday, 16th February, 7-8pm for a workshop on Growing Your Own Herbs and Vegetables – Planning for 2023. This workshop will help beginner growers plan a timetable for the year ahead and give some advice on things to grow and how to get started.

One of the keys to growing a constant supply of herbs and vegetables through-

out the year is careful planning. You need to consider what you want to grow, which seeds you need to order or buy, when you can sow them and plant them out, and when you can expect your harvest. Careful forward planning will allow you to have follow-up crops ready to plant into vacant plots to maximise your supplies through the year.

Booking essential, reserve a place by calling the library on 053 9483820. n

Enniscorthy Community Allotments

The multi-award-winning Enniscorthy Community Allotments, based at at Gort Na Gréine, beside the Enniscorthy Sports Hub, is all about local people growing their own food in an organic and sustainable way.

Eating well for menopause

To find out more: www.enniscorthycommunityallotments.ie Email: enniscorthyallotments@gmail.com www.facebook.com/Enniscorthycommun ityallotments

Check out the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6MKOngR-Qk https://www.facebook.com/enjoyenniscorthy/videos/3312641882280682 n

Join Liz O'Leary, a registered dietitian for a nutrition talk in Enniscorthy Library – Eating Well for Menopause, Thursday, February 23, 7-8pm.

Many women are left in the dark when it comes to menopause, their bodies are changing, from night sweats to constant fatigue and even unwanted weight gain. Is there anything that can be done to help with these symptoms? This talk will give people an opportunity to learn more about what menopause is, and practical advice on how dietary and lifestyle changes can help support women during this time of their life.

Admission is free. Booking is essential. Tel: 053 9236055. n

Liz O'Leary

Are you struggling to keep your New Year’s resolution to live healthier and eat well? Then join Davina Dowling for a motivational talk on how making a few small and sustainable changes to your diet can have a big impact on your overall health and wellbeing.

Wexford Library, Tuesday 14th February at 11:00am. Booking is essential. n

“Nutrition: Eat with the seasons for your health”

ooted in exford

Mark Cooke invites you to grow along with him every month

The Slaney News is delighted to welcome Enniscorthy man, Mark Cooke, on board with his new monthly column. Mark is a committee member at Enniscorthy Community Allotments, and has a huge passion for growing fruit and veg which he shares on his Instagram platform @rootedinwexford which has over 6,500 followers.

Mark describes himself very much as a ‘hobby gardener’ who is not academically trained in horticulture. He started planting with very little knowledge a few years ago and that knowledge has now mushroomed! Mark says he is “really looking forward to sharing my growing passion with readers of the Slaney News “.

I find the best way to clean the tunnel is using a soft brush with some warm, slightly soapy water. It lifts the algae really easily and maximises the light levels for your seedlings and plants over the growing season. You can do this on the inside too, to ensure you remove all of the unwanted bugs that have come inside over the winter.

FEBRUARY...

At this time of year, I focus mostly on tidying up and planning for the year ahead. If you have a greenhouse or if you start seeds indoors, you can start off with tomatoes, peppers or chillies, to name a few. Read on for some tips. There's plenty of work to do in my greenhouse at the minute. It needs a complete clear out of all the old tomato plants and any stray weeds or seedlings that might have popped up over winter. It needs a thorough clean to remove all of the bugs hidden in all of the corners and the algae on the outside that has grown over winter.

I like to grow organically. This means I don't use any chemicals or pest control that can be harmful to my soil and any vegetables that I grow. Rather, I use natural fertilisers and feed such as granulated and liquid seaweed.

As I mentioned earlier, it is still early to grow seeds, so if you don't have a warm space to grow your seeds you could always wait for another month. I like to grow mine indoors in a warm window that gets plenty of light. It requires a little extra minding but I'm always eager to get started.

If you don't want to grow seeds this month or don't have the space, it's the perfect time to get planning. Think of what you like to eat and stick to growing those things. Although I start chillies, tomatoes, peppers, aubergines and some different salad mixes, mostly this month is about planning for the year ahead.

If you don't have a growing space but you'd still like to grow something, try chillies. Chillies don't take up a lot of space and will grow easily on a warm kitchen window. They don't give too much trouble, seeds are widely available and if you have children they always love

watching them develop from a little seedling right through to picking that first chilli (big children too).

Last year, I grew 22 different varieties of tomatoes. I never even knew that there were that many varieties but the greenhouse was full of colour from black to white tomatoes with lots of colours in between including white, tie dye, green, red and yellow. This year I hope to grow a similar amount so I look forward to sharing all of those with you.

If you'd like to see more of what I am growing, see the methods I use, or ask me any questions, then make sure to pop over to @rootedinwexford on Instagram or check out next month to get some updates on how February went and my plans for March.

Mark Cooke –firmly ‘rooted in Wexford’

Breakfast with a difference

It was a delight to be invited by Jean O Connell of O Connell Marketing to attend the Taste Wexford Breakfast Industry Showcase with special guest, hospitality guide Georgina Campbell at Johnstown Castle recently.

The event is part of Taste Wexford’s Food Tourism Training Programme, inviting local producers to explore the theme, ‘Why serving a good regional breakfast makes economic sense for your hospitality business.’

Supported by Visit Wexford and Wexford Local Development, the well-attended showcase endeavoured to shine a light on the delicious Wexford produce available to create those most talked about breakfasts.

After all, as Georgina Campbell pointed out in her well-constructed, practical keynote speech, ‘Breakfast is often the only meal your guest will enjoy at your establishment, and most usually the last meal they will partake of before leaving you, and yet many in the hospitality trade do not place the same emphasis on breakfast as they might on lunch or dinner.’

Georgina went on to encourage those in hospitality to firstly use local produce and then promote it and its food story ad nauseum on menus, on blackboards, on billboards, on social media, indeed anywhere that people are likely to read.

Tell the local food story was most definitely the message of the morning.

Above left: Maura Bell, Mayor of Wexford, with Georgina Campbell. Above right: Georgina Campbell on left with the Taste Wexford Team L-R: Jean O Connell, Lorraine O'Dwyer, Sharon Noonan and Anthony O’Toole.

L-R: Billy Byrne (Wexford Co. Council Tourism Officer), Trudie Power (Taste Wexford), Paul Finnegan (Visit Wexford), Georgina Campbell, Jean O Connell (O Connell Marketing), Maura Bell (Mayor of Wexford).

Wexford Co. Cou Billy Byrne checking

Buy local, buy in season, and make food, especially breakfast, an experience for your guest, was the theme hammered home to the large audience by all the guests – Georgina; Ali Honour, chef at the Imperial Hotel, Cork; Anthony O`Toole, international food and travel advisor; Sharon Noonan, MC of the event and tourism and hospitality marketing consultant; Trudie Power, Chair of Wexford Food Family; Paul Finnegan, Chair of Visit Wexford; Tom Bermingham, Wexford Local Development; Billy Byrne, Tourism Officer, Wexford Co. Council; Jean O Connell, Taste Wexford & O Connell Marketing; and Lorraine O’Dwyer, food tourism guide.

Advice and ideas aplenty floated liberally around the exquisite, historic Johnstown venue before everyone was invited to partake of the mouth-wateringly, scrumptious display of cold and ambient dishes that would enhance any breakfast menu, whether hotel, B&B, or café.

Make everything an experience for the visitor, we have such an abundance of local produce in Wexford and collaboration is the key to success.

Mindful of the increased footfall to the county with the port at Rosslare looking forward to welcoming over a million extra passengers from Spanish, French, and UK markets, we need to elongate the time spent in Wexford and in the South East region, and it is the small things that are memorable as Georgina Campbell put it, ‘Give them a variety of breads at breakfast, people all over the globe love bread and love sampling homemade varieties and if they like it, you will have made a customer for life.’

A tasty and memorable event and certainly food for thought for our Wexford hospitality businesses.

– Words by Maria Nolan

Pics by Maria Nolan and Taste Wexford

L-R: Maria Nolan, Billy Byrne (Wexford Co. Council Tourism Officer ), Jean O Connell (Taste Wexford),

uncil Tourism Officer g out some of the fare. Looks inviting!

Wexford Local Enterprise Office now supports over 234 small businesses employing 1,773 staff

Last month, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney TD, announced the annual results of the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) for 2022 which showed that Local Enterprise Office Wexford supported companies created 330 jobs in 2022 with a net job increase of 177.

The new figures show that the LEO Wexford financially supported 234 small businesses in their portfolio across the county. These businesses in turn employ 1,773 people. 2022 was a remarkable year considering that LEO Wexford had the joint 5th highest number of net jobs across Ireland; the third highest joint number outside the Dublin region. The net jobs created by Local Enterprise Office Wexford supported clients in 2022 was 177, which reflects businesses that amalgamated, ceased trading and transferred on to Enterprise Ireland.

The total national figures for the Local Enterprise Offices across the country were announced with the LEOs now supporting 37,863 jobs across 7,221 companies. In 2022 there were 7,870 new jobs created by LEO client companies with a net jobs creation figure of 3,447. This was up 10% nationally on 2021 figures.

The LEOs also provide substantial funded supports to thousands of other small businesses across the country with programmes such as the Trading Online Voucher, Lean for Micro and Green for Micro along with training and mentoring. Simon Coveney TD, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, said; “These results show the significant role the Local Enterprise Offices are playing in not only creating new businesses and jobs but also in sustaining them. On the back of some of the most difficult years for small businesses we are still seeing growth across the country. During the pandemic we saw how essential the LEOs were to small businesses and they will be essential as we navigate the ongoing cost of living and energy crises.

“With 84% of new jobs being created outside of Dublin, it reinforces the Government’s strategy to strengthen employment throughout Ireland. As the remit of the Local Enterprise Offices has now broadened to companies up to 50 employees, even more SMEs will be able to avail of their supports, but also their expertise in growing enterprise in towns and villages across the country.”

The Local Enterprise Offices were to the fore in supporting small businesses across the country in 2022, helping thousands to pivot online or adapt their products and services through a large suite of supports. Local Enterprise Offices provide training and mentoring in a range of areas from financial skills and product innovation to starting your own business and maximising your presence online.

Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development, said; “The results announced today are a testament

to Ireland’s small business community. When faced with adversity, they have adapted, pivoted, upskilled and did whatever it took to sustain and grow their businesses. We are seeing firsthand in Wexford where green shoots –new ideas and companies are emerging from very challenging trading conditions. This year we will continue to work closely with Enterprise Ireland and as part of Wexford County Council to ensure our small businesses get the best possible supports to allow them to flourish.”

Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council George Lawlor said: “The Local Enterprise Offices across the country have gone above and beyond in their support of small businesses and there is a palpable sense of renewed optimism. We are delighted that yet again LEO Wexford is in the top 5 in terms of net job creation and are committed to building on excellent figures over the last two years.”

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

They also run key initiatives to foster entrepreneurship across the country including Local Enterprise Week, National Women’s Enterprise Day, the Student Enterprise Programme and the National Enterprise Awards.

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

Local Enterprise Office Wexford: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie

Tel: 053 9196020 n

Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at Wexford LEO.

Michael Dempsey is elected Chamber President

Michael Dempsey, a native of John Street, Enniscorthy, is the new President of Ennis corthy Town & District Chamber of Commerce. He was elected at the AGM in De cember and replaces Colm Neville of the Riverside Park Hotel as leader of the town and district’s business community.

The election of Mr. Dempsey to the Presidency is a major coup for the Chamber in that he is one of Ireland’s leading businessmen having served as Managing Director of Bristol Myers Squib Pharmaceuticals as well as Senior European Markets Director for the company also. In 2010, Mr. Dempsey was appointed by the Government to Chair the Board of FAS, the then State Training Agency which was mired in controversy at the time. With more than 1,000 employees on its books, the appointment was viewed by many as a ‘Poison Chalice’ but with Mr Dempsey’s no-nonsense approach, the agency was turned round in record time and is today known as Solas, the state’s further education and training board.

The new Vice President is Niall Byrne, Castlebridge,

Mr Byrne is the managing partner of well known architectural firm NMB Architects. The company has offices in Temple House, Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, and is engaged in major architectural projects in Ireland, Europe and as far afield as Australia.

The new Treasurer is MJ Furlong from Adamstown, pictured below.

Mr. Furlong is the newly-appointed Manager of AIB Bank, Enniscorthy. He continues the long tradition of AIB Bank’s involvement with the Chamber with two previous Enniscorthy-based managers, Maree Lyng and Emma Fox, having served on the Board, Maree as President and Emma as Treasurer.

Maria Nolan (pictured right), Bellefield, Enniscorthy, was returned unopposed as Chamber Secretary having served in that position for the past two years.

Maria is a well known community activist, feature writer with the Slaney News and is the driving force behind the Wexford Literary Festival which has gained international recognition in recent years.

Also returned unopposed were the two outgoing Directors, Michael Bennett and Eric Barron, while Eugene Doyle, Accountant, was returned as Company Secretary and Sheil Kinnear, Accountants, as Company Auditors. n

Funding for Hoop Medical

During 2022, Research, Development & Innovation funding of €154,226 was secured from Enterprise Ireland for Wexford Local Enterprise Office (LEO) client Hoop Medical Ltd, Ardcavan Business Park, Wexford, which specialises in the development and manufacture of advanced medical balloon components for the global medical device industry.

This funding will assist the company not only to develop new innovative processes but also to become the knowledge centre of bespoke medical balloon manufacturing globally.

Currently employing 25 people, expansion plans will result in staff numbers increasing to 50 within the next 18–24 months. n

The Local Enterprise Office Student Enterprise Programme for its 21st year this year has added three new awards. See link below for details: https://www.studententerprise.ie

Wexford, pictured on left.

WEXFORD BUSINESS SUCCEEDS WITH BUYERS AT LOCAL ENTERPRISE SHOWCASE

Businesses nationwide had the opportunity to meet buyers from all over the world last month as part of the Local Enterprise Showcase at Showcase 2023 in the RDS in Dublin. There were over 100 Local Enterprise Office supported businesses from across the country present at the event with one in attendance from Wexford.

Gorey’s Trustwordie exhibited at the Local Enterprise Showcase Ireland in the RDS from the 22nd - 24th January 2023 that saw over 4,000 buyers from across the globe attend the three-day event in Dublin looking to secure new sales and partners for the year ahead. Upwards of €20 million in business is expected to have been transacted across the threeday event.

Trustwordie offers a unique range of quirky and fun greeting cards created by Joy Redmond, for every relationship –the established couple, first-timers, the crush, the ex, the valentine, friends grieving/separated, and much more.

Joy Redmond, said: “Securing a spot in the Local Enterprise Hall at Showcase 23 has been transformative for my business. I’ve been selling my cards direct to customers for a few years and although I’ve managed to grow my customer base and product line alone over the past few years, real scale will only be achieved via retail. Showcase afforded me the opportunity to present my cards for real relationships to buyers from both small, independent gift and book stores and large chains. One chain of shops in NYC has already placed their first order and I’m following up with several exciting opportunities including a large Irish chain of bookshops which is an ideal fit for my wordy cards. I now have a firmer grasp of the mechanics of the industry and I look forward to returning to Showcase next year with the continued support of LEO Wexford.”

Dara Calleary TD, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, officially opened Showcase 2023. The show, which marked its 47th edition this year, is one of Ireland’s largest and most important international trade fairs. Showcase is presented on behalf of Design & Crafts Council Ireland, with support from Enterprise Ireland in promoting the trade show internationally, and the Local Enterprise Offices nationwide.

Minister Calleary said: “It’s great to be here and see some of the incredible products on display. Ireland is globally renowned for its craft and design, and Showcase is the international launchpad for so many Irish makers to achieve this recognition. Craft plays an integral part in Ireland’s economy, and I wish each maker the best of luck during Showcase.”

Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise at Wexford’s Local Enterprise Office, said: “We were delighted to work closely with Trustwordie over the last number of months. Mentoring and training has allowed the business to be in the best position possible to maximise their appearance at the event including sales technique, marketing materials and stand production. This experience has opened the business up to a global market.”

For more information on Local Enterprise Showcase 2023 and supports available to those operating in the design and crafts sector, log on to www.LocalEnterprise.ie

And for more information on Showcase 2023, log on to www.ShowcaseIreland.com n

Joy Redmond at the Trustwordie stand at Local Enterprise Showcase 2023.

Feasibility Study Grants

Feasibility Study Grants are designed to assist the promoter with researching market demand for a product or service and examining its sustainability. It includes assistance with innovation including specific consultancy requirements, hiring of expertise from third level colleges, private specialists, design and prototype development.

The maximum Feasibility Study Grant payable shall be 50% of the investment or €15,000 whichever is the lesser.

Expenditure may be considered under the following headings: Market Research - Consultancy Costs - Technical Development/Prototype/ Innovation - Salary/Own Labour Research - Miscellaneous Costs

Please contact Wexford LEO for an application form for the Feasibility Study Grant. Phone: 053 919 6020. Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie n

Business supports

The Business Expansion Grant is designed to assist a business in its growth phase after the initial 18 month start-up period. Sole traders, partnerships or limited companies that fulfill the following criteria can apply:

- Located and operating within the LEO geographic area.

- A business, which, on growth, will have the capacity to progress to the Enterprise Ireland portfolio

- A business employing up to 10 employees

- A manufacturing or internationally traded service business

- A domestically traded service business with the potential to trade internationally.

For more information and how to apply click here: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Financial-Supports/Business-Expansion-Grant/

The Agile Innovation Fund is now available for small businesses: Introduced by Enterprise Ireland, the Agile fund will help clients of LEO Wexford respond more quickly to market opportunities and challenges like Brexit. Offering fast-track approval and a streamlined online application process, the new Agile Innovation Fund will allow companies to access up to 45% or 50% in support for product, process or service development projects with a total cost of up to €300,000.

For more information click: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Financial-Supports/Agile%20Innovation%20Fund/ n

Green for Micro

Sign up for The Local Enterprise Office Green For Micro programme – helping your business prepare for the low carbon, more resource efficient economy of the future.

Book Now: https://bit.ly/3zW6RBn

This FREE initiative is available to companies with up to ten employees, and provides the mentorship and technical support your business needs to go green, covering such as resource efficiency, understanding your carbon footprint, reducing costs and implementing an environmental management system. n

Nolan Transport –building for the future

Brexit has seen demand for warehousing facilities and logistics services boom and the transportation company that celebrates 60 years this year, Nolan Transport in Co. Wexford, is ahead of the curve with the official opening of the new global Nolan Warehousing and Logistics Park. Phase one of five at the 35-acre site just off of the Rosslare road at Drinagh opened officially last month – a €12 million, 100,000 square foot warehouse facility

Nolan Transport officially opened its new 35-acre, €12 million Global Logistics Park last month at Rosslare Road, Drinagh, Wexford, creating 30 new jobs in the process.

The world has seen unprecedented demand for warehousing facilities caused by changes in customer needs and disruption in the supply chain stemming from Brexit and Covid. Recognising these disruptions and changes, Nolan Transport is putting itself and Wexford forward as a global leader for transportation and logistics services to its customers both locally and internationally.

Nolan Transport, founded by Jimmy and his wife Joan (christened Johanna) in 1963, celebrates 60 years in business this year. Starting in 1963 with a single truck and only the two of them working the business, today it has grown to provide the

supply chain services of Transportation, Warehousing, Customs and Systems to its customers.

The company prides itself on being one of Co. Wexford’s leading employers with over 1,000 people and operating over 2,000 trailers and 700 trucks of owner asset-based fleet.

With its main hub already operating out of New Ross, on 11th of January 2023 the Nolan family opened the “Johanna 1 Building” named in honour of their dear mother Joan who sadly passed away suddenly on 16 December 2022. It has been specifically designed to facilitate its customers’ needs and is already in high demand with its global customers seeking out high-end warehousing requirements. The new €12 million 150,000 cubic metres high-bay warehouse facility is the first of five planned warehouses in the company's €50 million vision for the park over the next few years.

In addition to its two Co. Wexford locations, the company operates offices internationally in the UK, France and Spain, and last month also opened its new office in Holland with further expansion plans into other European locations planned over the next five years.

The new global logistics park in Wexford houses its warehousing services. The new warehouse facility has been constructed to meet international standards and offers a specialist wing for bioscience, clean room facilities and a containment wing. Additionally incorporating a sustainability plan, the building will be powered via solar roof panels coupled with in-built smart controls for energy. The company is also seeking to add on railway connections and on-site wind turbines in the coming years.

L-R: Brendan Crowley, President Co. Wexford Chamber of Commerce, Paul Kehoe TD, Emma Dunphy, Acting CEO Co. Wexford Chamber of Commerce and Tom Enright, CEO Wexford Co. Council. Photo: Mary Browne.

The ground floor measurement is 80,000 square feet with nine storeys of racking sitting within that space with 22,000 available pallet locations, and with a bespoke, state-of-the-art design, smart warehouse management system. This enables the company to offer a complete end-to-end logistics and warehousing solution to suit a range of occupiers from SMEs to large manufacturing and distribution companies and according to Noel Nolan, Director of the Warehousing Division, “We are delighted to have exchanged contracts with a number of international brands already.” He believes, “We are ideally positioned to unlock opportunities to deliver high-quality and sustainable ware-

housing solutions, deliver more jobs and deliver more economic benefits for Wexford and the wider region, all the while working even more closely with Rosslare Europort with its new direct to Europe and its UK ferry operators.”

Nolan Transport is currently ISO credited and is status pending for Seveso licensing and full AEO customs status which enables the company to work even more closely with international operators managing high-value goods, and offer a bonded warehousing service.

For further details see www.nolantransport.com n

Above: Stella Connolly from Dublin, sister of Johanna and aunt of the Nolan family, cuts the cake at the official opening of the first phase (a €12 million Warehousing and Logistics Centre) at the €50 Global Nolan Warehousing and Logistics Park in Wexford. Below left: Tom Enright, CEO Wexford County Council, and Noel Nolan, Director of the Warehousing Division of Nolan Transport, pictured at the official opening. Below centre: Zara Nolan, the first great grandchild with her aunt Lucy Nolan. Below right: MC for the occasion, Ivan Yates. Photos: Mary Browne.

The 13 Nolan Transport siblings and all directors of Nolan Transport, L-R: Elizabeth, Ann, Patricia, John, Raymond, Seamus, Noel, Brendan, Richard, Kevin, Joan, Oliver and Sally.

Photo: Mary Browne.

Pamper your pet at Chateau K9

A new pet grooming salon has been opened in Enniscorthy by Dee Greenwood at Coolnahorna just 2kms past Medeira Grove (Eircode Y21 T6K0).

Dee is a graduate of the Gorey Adult Education Animal Grooming Course at QQI Level 5. Content of that course includes:

n Canine, feline and other small animal body language so as to handle, house and groom animals appropriately.

n Cycles of hair and nail growth in a variety of dog breeds and other small animals.

n Anatomical skin structure and physical skin appearance in animals so as to be able to suggest skin and coat abnormalities.

n Potential causes of hair loss and how to deal with them if evident in the grooming facility.

n Correct uses of equipment used in the grooming facility and the appropriate maintenance of such equipment.

n Information sources, including dog owner, examination and observations of dog, to plan the grooming process including brushing and de-matting, nail and ear care, bathing, drying and clipping, hand stripping and/or cutting as appropriate.

Dee loves working with dogs and looks forward to pampering your pet at her new salon. n

Welcome to 'Chateau K9' a new and welcoming dog grooming salon at Coolnahorna, Enniscorthy, just 2km past Madeira Grove (Eircode Y21 T6K0) For enquiries or to book an appointment please contact Dee Greenwood on 085 114 7303 or message through Instagram or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chateau.K9.Ireland https://www.instagram.com/chateau.k9/ WE LOOK FORWARD TO PAMPERING YOUR PET

Cllr Lisa McDonald (Rosslare District) started off Christmas Day with a charity swim in Rosslare Strand in aid of St. Mary’s Daycare Centre. Pictured here with her children Cormac and Caragh and dog

While most people pick up after their dog, sadly others do not. Dog poo is not just unsightly and a nuisance, but it can pose a significant public health risk.

When out and about enjoying your local walk, with your dog, please remember:

1) Carry bags to clean up after your dog.

2) No public bin? Bring dog waste home and bin it.

3) All bags are litter, even compostable bags.

4) Don’t let your dog roam and leave poo in public places. n

Cooper.

MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. T: (053) 9233187, 9236674.

F: (053) 9236674.

E: moynevet@gmail.com

VET DIARY FOR FEBRUARY

As I write this piece, it’s the beginning of February, officially the first day of Spring. In Ireland we celebrate it as St Brigid’s day. She is the Celtic goddess who has magical powers of protection and abundance, fecundity and grace. My recollection of her legend has it that she asked the High King for a piece of land and he consented but with a smirk and a caveat... She could own what land the shawl on her back could cover. He thought she'd have a tiny patch in front of her... So she took off the shawl swung it over her shoulder and it magically expanded and covered as far as the eye could see!!!

In nature, many of the wild herds such as wild horses are ruled by the lead mare not by the stallion. It’s a matriarchal system and interestingly enough the old Brehon laws of Ireland were based on a matriarchal system too, in keeping with the natural laws, in tune with mother nature. Our modern society has been built on a patriarchal system from the church and government and many business models.

A lady called Linda Kohanov, who studied the intricate nature of how horses work in the wild, learned that if one of the young colts starts acting up and throwing his weight around it was the lead mare that would pull him up on it and if he continued she would extricate him from the herd so he would have to go it alone completely outside the protection of the main herd. He is now very vulnerable to predators such as mountain lions, bobcats, wolves, coyotes, etc. These outcast young horses soon realised that life was much better in the herd than going it alone and would attempt to

Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital

rejoin the herd. The term 'Join Up' was coined for this where the young colt attempts to rejoin but in a very submissive fashion by dropping his head to the lead mare basically saying, ‘I’m happy to go with your rules’, re-enters the herd and they move on together.

Linda has written several books on the wisdom of these wonderful animals such as The Tao of Equus and The Power of The Herd and interestingly is now working with big corporations in the US teaching them the power of the matriarchal system in business where people work together to a common goal... in contrast to the patriarchal system where we step on someone else's head to move up the ladder to success. In the matriarchal system, the idea that a rising tide raises all boats is the essence of how it can be utilised. People working to a common goal achieve it much easier than solo runs. Geese flying in a 'V’ formation can fly 70% further than they can on their own and when they honk from the back it’s words of encouragement. They interchange the lead role so everyone does their bit... synergy at its best.

The wisdom of our fellow creatures, their simple rules and way of living, can lead us back to living a life of harmony, bringing the spark back into our lives and, like Brigid, creating and enjoying the magic all around us.

Enjoy the beauty that's unfolding this Spring with eyes of wonder, like the quotes: ‘Through the eyes of a child we enter the kingdom of Heaven’ and ‘All that is supposed to be in Heaven is already here on earth.’ 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

with

The MG4 has arrived in Ireland and is one of the most anticipated new cars of 2023. MG has been slowly establishing itself in the Irish market since the end of 2020 with a new dealer network and a range of hybrid and electric vehicles like the MG ZS, MG HS and MG5. But it's the new MG4 that looks set to really accelerate the growth of this new brand in Ireland. The MG4 is a new electric hatchback that comes to market with the choice of two batteries and an electric driving range of up to 450 kilometres (WLTP) depending on the model. And the best bit? It's available from just €27,495 making it one of the most affordable new electric cars on sale.

CAROLINE GETS MOTORING THE MG4

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

The MG4 is a sporty looking hatchback and is available in a range of paint colours including some charismatic hues like Volcano Orange and Ocean Blue, as well as subtler shades like Urban Grey and Black Pearl. The sleek, aerodynamic design is full of interesting design features that help to sharpen the MG4's presence on the road. There are two trim levels – Excite and Exclusive – and 17-inch alloy wheels and automatic LED headlights and rear lights come as standard.

Inside, the MG4 has an open and minimalist cabin design. There is a small digital instrument cluster for the driver and a large touchscreen comes as standard with a wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

connection. The finish of the cabin is good for a car at this price. There are hard plastics but they blend in quite well. Standard features for MG4 Excite (from €27,495) include the MG Pilot advanced driver assistance system, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, automatic climate control and the MG iSmart app connectivity.

The MG4 Exclusive (from €34,495) adds an upgraded MG Pilot system (Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, two-tone roof, rear privacy glass, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats and steering wheel, 360-degree camera, wireless

MG4

phone charging and an upgraded MG iSmart system compatible with live services.

Styled as a fivedoor hatchback, the MG4 is the first MG to be built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform and that ensures a spacious interior for a car of this size. There is generous legroom in the back and a mostly flat floor making the car more comfortable for rear seat passengers.

The boot offers 363 litres of space, which is not far off the Volkswagen ID.3 (385 litres) - but a Nissan Leaf (420 litres) and Renault Megane E-Tech (440 litres) offer considerably more. It's reasonable for a hatchback but there is no clever place under the boot floor to store the storage cables or even a space under the front bonnet.

The MG4 Excite is available with a choice of 51kWh (350km WLTP range) or 64kWh (450km WLTP range) battery. The

MG4 Exclusive is available with the 64kWh battery only and can drive electric for a range of up to 435km (WLTP). DC fast charging is available up to 135kW depending on the model.

On the road the MG4 feels light, swift and fun to drive for a compact electric vehicle. It grips the road well, and feels agile when the roads get twistier. It is a firmly sprung car so you will be aware of any imperfections in the road surface beneath you, even on the motorway. Refinement could be better with a fair bit of wind noise at high speeds. Some compact electric vehicles like the Volkswagen ID.3 and Cupra Born offer more

comfort and refinement.

But the MG4 is still one of the best value new cars on sale today, particularly for buyers looking to switch to electric. It comes well-equipped with a good range that should see plenty of electric driving between charges. It’s not the plushest compact EV on sale but at that price it’s impossible to ignore and makes battery technology more accessible to more people in the shape of a practical fivedoor hatchback.

Model Tested:

MG4 64kWh Exclusive

Price: €34,495 (after SEAI grant deduction)

Battery: 64 kWh

Range: 435 km (WLTP)

Power: 203hp

Torque: 250Nm

Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 7.9 seconds

Motor Tax: €120 per year n

NCRS,

Interior

Hybrids are now the top choice

34% of motorists are considering a new car purchase according to the latest Easytrip survey, with hybrid topping preferred engine type.

Easytrip, Ireland’s smart mobility services specialist, carried out research last month on new car purchases for the 231-registration period. The results reveal that 34% of motorists are considering the purchase of a new vehicle this year with hybrids being the main choice at 39%, followed by electric (EV) at 27%, diesel at 23% and petrol at just 9%.

EV PURCHASE BARRIERS AND BENEFITS:

Of the 5,000 respondents to the survey, 83% stated that they don’t believe that Ireland will reach the target of 945,000 electric vehicles by 2030 and highlighted what they perceived to be the top five barriers to driving an electric vehicle (EV) as:

1. Purchase price

2. Public charging network

3. Driving range of vehicles

4. Length of charging time

5. Increase in cost of electricity

When asked about the main benefits of driving EVs the following were revealed as the top five reasons to purchase one:

1. Low running costs

2. Better for the environment

3. Cost savings over time (fuel, maintenance, motor tax)

4. Government purchase grants for EVs

5. Public charging network

One in six respondents to the Easytrip survey also highlighted that recent climate change reports are influencing their vehicle decisions.

Colin Delaney, CEO of Easytrip, said: “January continues to be a popular month for car sales and while our research shows motorists hesitancy with the move to electric vehicles, we do know that EV sales are up 81.3% in 2022 compared to 2021 from the latest SIMI statistics. The perceived barriers and benefits of EVs and motoring’s impact on the environment is an important discussion as new legislation and local commitments are introduced, so it’s important for anyone buying to do their research. Motorists who drive an EV are eligible for discounts of up to 75% on toll roads as part of the low emissions vehicle toll incentive.”

www.easytrip.ie

Doyles Garage, Courtown wins Co. Wexford ZEVI Electric Vehicle Dealership of the Year Award

Zero Vehicles Emissions Ireland (ZEVI), a dedicated office within the Department of Transport, and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), last month announced the winners of ZEVI’s EV Dealership of the Year Awards which is now in its second year. These awards recognise and reward excellence in the promotion and sales of electric vehicles (EV) in Ireland.

In total, 124 car dealerships from 24 counties participated in the 2023 ZEVI EV Dealership of the Year Awards, representing a 6% increase in entries from 2022. Car dealerships are a vital part of the transition to clean and efficient transport. Funded by ZEVI, these SEAI-administered awards recognise the dealerships who are working to increase consumers’ understanding and experience of EVs and their uptake on Irish roads.

The Co. Wexford winner was Doyles Garage, Courtown.

More details on www.seai.ie

First national electric vehicle charging infrastructure strategy published

Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan last month launched the new Electric Vehicles Charging Infrastructure Strategy 2022 – 2025, which will see €100 million spent on public charging infrastructure over the next three years.

The strategy presents an ambitious pathway and practical steps for delivery of a national EV charging network which will see a pool of high-powered chargers every 60 km on our motorway network as well as home/apartment charging, residential neighbourhood charging (including new mobility hubs), destination charging and en-route charging.

An accompanying implementation plan sets out a road map for the delivery of Ireland’s EV charging infrastructure over the next three years, assuring car users of the feasibility of switching to an EV, and enabling Ireland to meet its national carbon reduction targets.

Minister Ryan also announced the new Shared Island Sports Club Scheme as the first practical roll-out of the strategy. This €15m scheme from the Shared Island Fund will help sports clubs install electric vehicle charge points in local communities across the island of Ireland, so when people drop off kids or go to the club for their own use, they can charge their car at the same time. This will be just one form of destination charger. Others will be installed in locations like retail centres and tourism spots for example – places where people may be driving to.

The new strategy takes a people-first approach, focusing on seven user groups, illustrating different transport needs across different parts of the country both rural

New grant scheme for EV chargers in sports clubs across the island of Ireland announced.

Fast chargers (50kW +) will be available every 60 km on the motorway network. Enhanced supports, advice and guidance for local authorities from ZEVI to ensure they can install chargers in their areas easily.

and urban, or in different housing types, for example. It then follows an individual’s journey from the planning stages to their return home, mirroring the needs of real people and groups. The strategy gives an insight into practical infrastructure adjustments that will make their EV driving experience easier.

Speaking at the launch, Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan said, ”The EV Strategy sets out a roadmap for creating an entirely new infrastructure across the country – one that people can have confidence in and one that will encourage more and more people to choose EVs. It’s happening already – EV sales are skyrocketing – but the new infrastructure we are planning should take away concern or worry that people might have about access to charging points.”

“In all of this, our Local Authorities will play a vital role. The key anchor for this Strategy is the specialist ZEVI unit. Within this unit, we have the expertise, the knowledge, the guidance, the resources that Local Authorities will need to be able to make the best decisions on the procurement, leasing and location of EV chargers.”

“One of the initiatives I really want Local Authorities to embrace are the mobility hubs where people can charge their own cars, charge their e-bikes or e-scooters, or use a shared EV, for example. This is already proving to be a success in Finglas in Dublin (City Council), and I think it should be a standard feature in our towns and cities nationwide.”

Currently, the majority of EV charging (c.80%) is done at home, and access to and installation of home-charging infrastructure is relatively well established. The focus of this Strategy is the provision of publicly funded charging infrastructure for electric cars and light-duty vehicles, the demand for which will grow as EV uptake increases. To support individual needs, the strategy lays out four main categories of charging infrastructure to be developed:

Home/apartment charging

Residential neighbourhood charging

Destination charging

Motorway/en-route charging

Off-peak home charging will continue to be encouraged while neighbourhood residential charging aims to replicate this charging option for people without access to a home charge point. Destination charging, high powered charge points along core motorways, will facilitate top-ups enroute.

For further information on the Electric Vehicles Charging Infrastructure Strategy 2022 – 2025 and the Shared Island Sports Club Scheme, visit www.gov.ie/zevi n

Seeing the light at Wexford Park

Work on installing floodlights at Chadwicks Wexford Park began in November 2022 and was completed in January 2023 in time for Wexford to host their Walsh Cup game versus Kilkenny under lights on 21 January 2023.

It is estimated that the cost of the floodlighting is in the region of €800,000 to €900,000.

On Saturday, 21st January 2023, 12,000 fans gathered in Chadwicks Wexford Park for the official launch evening which included the final of the Wexford First Year Schools Hurling Competition –Wexford CBS v Good Counsel (New Ross), a Fireworks Display & Light Show, music by Wexford’s Corner Boy and the centrepiece – Wexford v. Kilkenny in the Walsh Cup.

Richie Lawlor's late goal sealed a famous victory for Wexford on what was an histiric night for the GAA in Co. Wexford. n

“Sporting Memories”

"Sporting Memories" is a free event organised by Wexford County Council, Wexford GAA and the Alzheimers Society in Chadwicks Wexford Park at 2.30pm on 6th February. Everyone welcome, especially people living with alzheimers and their families. n

Runners and riders lined up for TJ Murphys

Enniscorthy Greyhound Track

Racing will resume after the winter break on Thursday 2nd March 2023. n

Astro Pitch

The eagerly awaited new Astro Pitch project at Ross Road, Enniscorthy, is making progress.

The planning process for the new pitch has been completed. A call is out for tenders for the construction of the pitch with tenders closing on 10th February. Work is likely to commence this Spring 2023 and the project is expected to be completed over the following few months. n

For the golfer in your life...

Enniscorthy Golf Club Membership

Vouchers are available from the club office and you can also pick up a voucher in the proshop for lessons or golf gear. A great present for any golfer, any time of the year. n

Slaney Olympic Athletic Club Enniscorthy 10K

The Slaney Olympic Athletic Club Enniscorthy 10K, kindly sponsored by Campion Insurance, takes place on Sunday 12th February 2023, at 12 noon, starting on the Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. This is the 17th running of the Enniscorthy 10K and Slaney Olympic looks forward to welcoming all participants on the day.

While the name may have changed from Creane and Creane to Campion Insurance, the company, with its 35 years of experience and 11 offices throughout the country, remains committed to Enniscorthy as evidenced by its sponsorship of this major local event.

Online registration is open at https://www.popupraces.ie/race/enniscorthy-10k-2023/

The course for the 10k consists of two laps, with just a 94 metre rise over the 10k, beginning at the Old Dublin Rd, heading out to Scarawalsh and back in the New Dublin Road.

Enniscorthy Sports Hub

O’Leary Sludds Architects were appointed in Feb 2021 for the detailed design, procurement of works contractor and construction management of the proposed new Sports Hub building. A competition to award a works contract was advertised in May 2022. The lowest price tender opened for the project exceeded the available budget and, therefore, it has been decided not to progress with awarding a works contract. A redesign process for the project is now underway, and it is expected to retender in early 2023. The question of a playing pitch at the centre of the running track at the Sports Hub came up at the November meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District. The District Manager informed the meeting that it is under review with a view to it being used for Spring/Summer soccer. n

Campion Insurance: https://www.campion.com

Race number and t-shirt pick up is at Lifestyle Fitness, Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy (Eircode Y21 FY68). There are no registrations on the day.

The race will be signposted from all approaches to the town. The race starts at 12 noon. Prizes will be posted out after the event. There is ample parking facilities in the surrounding area.

Prizes:

• €200 1st Man & 1st Woman.

• €125 2nd Man & Woman.

• €75 3rd Man & Woman.

• 1st Under 20, Over 40, 50, 60, 70.

• €160 1st Men’s & Women’s Teams of 4.

• Event Record €200

Male 29.35 Mark Christie (2011)

Female 32.52 Linda Byrne (2012). n

Ballagh Bo official o

The Ballagh Boxing Club’s new clubhouse was officially opened on 15th January 2023.

The club would like to thank Fr Dermot Gahan for helping secure the site, without his help the new clubhouse would never have happened.

The club would also like to thank Wexford Ex-boxers for sponsoring the Fr Staples memorial plaque and for their support over the years. And the various sponsors, golf teams (and the two people who help every year to run the golf tournament – John Lacey and Jack Murphy), and those who support the dogs’ night.

Great credit is due to Liam O’Neil and the building committee, TOC Construction and

At the opening, Mickey White (President Wexford Boxing), Andy O’Leary, The Ballagh, and former champion Boxer Jim O’Sullivan (President Ex-boxers).

Some of those at the opening of the new Ballagh Boxing Club clubhouse.

In charge of the refreshments were Sam and Margaret Storey.

Right: Michael Redmond, Eddie O’Connor and Brendan O’Connor, in front are Brendan Jr and Annie O’Connor.

Eoin O’Neill, Liam O’Neill and Thomas Cullen.

Bout between Jason Ramage, The Ballagh, and Tommy O’Loughlan, Sacre Coeur, Enniscorthy.

oxing Club opening

architect Seamus O’Hagan, who all worked tirelessly from the very beginning to achieve the fine building the club now has. Among the others acknowledged and thanked for their help were the Community Centre commitee, Bob’s Bar, Tournament Inspector Francis Keeling, medical officer Joanne Murphy, the judges and referees who officiated at the bouts on opening day, and the participating clubs from Westside BC, Tolerton Boxing Club, Curadh Boxing Club, St Mary’s New Ross, Wexford CBS and Sacre Coeur Boxing Club.

A special mention was given to Frankie Kirwan, John Tyrell and Sacre Coeur Boxing Club for all their help in organising the tournament and also all their help over the years. n

Some of those at the opening of the new Ballagh Boxing Club clubhouse.

Mickey White (President Wexford Boxing), Jim O’Sullivan (President Ex-boxers), and Andy O’Leary, Ballagh Boxing Club.

Above left: Max Sinnott, Fionn Cullen and Ciaran Whelan. Above right: Some boxing greats

Mike and Tom Connors, John Nolan, Jimmy Meyler and Richie Hore. Below left: James and Chantel Balfe. Below right: Rian Carty ahead of her fight at the opening.

Future Champion: Kelly and Adam Nolan with their son Jack who made a bit of a splash at the opening.

Fitness, friendsh 2023 Ferry

Fitness, friendship and fun was the order of the day at the Wexford FC clubhouse at Ferrycarrig Park on Sunday, January 22nd, as the Gallagher-sponsored 2023 Ferrycarrig ‘5’ Five Mile Road Race took place in conjunction with St. Killian’s Athletics Club. Approximately 300 runners, joggers and walkers from across the county and further afield limbered up to take on the popular five-mile event which helps to raise funds for the continued development of Crossabeg Ballymurn Community Centre.

Dublin-based Olympian and Raheny Shamrock clubman Mick Clohisey was first home in a stellar time of 24 minutes and 31 seconds.

Mick was followed closely behind by Denis Whelan (Slaney Olympic AC), Sean Doran (Clonliffe Harriers), Alan Duffy (Slí Cualann AC) and local athlete Niall Sheil (St. Killians AC).

First woman home was Clare Barrett of Wexford club DMP, who finished in a time of 29 minutes and 59 seconds.

Katie Wilson (Wexford Marathon Club), Clodagh Kelly (Croghan AC), Julie Kirwan and Jackie Carty (Kilmore AC) claimed the prized places of 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th females home respectively.

As the first Co. Wexford male and female to finish, Denis and Clare were presented with Seamus Kehoe Perpetual Trophies in memory of the visionary community man who was one of the original co-founders of the Ferrycarrig Five race.

In the highly competitive veteran categories: Myles Gibbons and Audrey Gahan were the

Clare Barrett picking up the Seamus Kehoe perpetual memorial trophy.

Denis Whelan receiving the Seamus Kehoe Perpetual Memorial Trophy.

Eugene Doherty picking up his prize in the O-60s mens category.

Left: Aoife and Brendan Ling. Above: Lisa Wickham and Carmel Cash.

Left: Vyonne and Above: A touch of physio for Right: Mary Carton, Maire Clodagh Lynan and

Above left: Fran O’Hagan, Edel Kehoe, Eimer Kelly and Mary Carton. Above right: Having some refreshments after the Ferycarrig 5.

ip and fun at the ycarrig Five

first male and female finishers aged 40 and over, Brendan Lyng and Ann Ryan were successful in the 50s and over category and Eugene Doherty and Catherine Redmond came home first in the 60s and over category.

Luca O’Connor of the United Striders club won in the Junior Males category, while Sass Thompson was the winning Junior Female.

The winning female team was comprised of United Striders athletes Beth O’Connor, Lorraine Harrington and Catherine Redmond, while Slaney Olympic athletes Denis Whelan, Seán Crotty and James Doyle made up the winning male team.

Conditions were mostly good for the race, which got underway at the Wexford complex at 12 and followed an anti-clockwise route from the entrance down to the left, and left again out onto the hard shoulder of the N11 at Kitestown cross, and back into the left at Kyle Cross and left again to finish back at the clubhouse.

Following the race, participants and supporters alike enjoyed a chance to catch up over a warming cup of tea or coffee and some tasty refreshments as they looked forward to more great sporting and community events to come in 2023.

The Committee of Crossabeg Ballymurn Community Centre would like to thank all sponsors and supporters of the 2023 Gallagher Ferrycarrig ‘5’ Five Mile Road Race 2023, as well as all volunteers who helped out on the day, all participants and everyone who helped to make the event another brilliant success. n

Above left: Rob Doyle, Calelle Doyle, Geraldine and Frances Murphy.

Above right: Lorraine Harrington, Beth O’Connor and Bernie Cashin.

d Chris O’Connor. Carmel Cash by Peter Hayden. ad Jones, Mathew Taggard, d Bernadette Carton.

Mairead Jones, Padraig Moriarty and Tommy McElwain.

Chris Bent, Francis Power and Oliver Stack.

Isabelle Mahon, Helen Burrell and Kathleen Birmingham.

Above: Ray Moran and Pat Nolan.

Below: Andy and Michelle Staff.

Enniscorthy rugby round-up for January

After a rough first-half to the AIL season, Enniscorthy’s Senior team needed to bounce back in a big way to try and get off the bottom of the table in 2B.

It is exactly what they did.

Two games, two wins, both in front of droves of Enniscorthy supporters up at Alcast Park.

The first came against Galwegians, the last team Enniscorthy faced before the Christmas break, on the 15th of January, where the hosts ran riot.

A Sebastian Pim hat-trick along with tries from Angelo Todisco, MJ Doyle and Nick Doyle saw Enniscorthy run away with a lobsided win by a scoreline of 44 to nil.

The next game was due to take place up in Magherafelt, Co. Derry, against Rainey Old Boys, but the game was postponed due to the pitch being frozen, so it was back to Alcast Park for the second game, against Sligo.

Tries from Angelo Todisco and Nick Doyle gave Enniscorthy a well-earned 19-5 win after a physical game of rugby.

Whilst still at the bottom of the

table, escape from a possible relegation playoff is still within reach as Enniscorthy look to extend their winning streak.

The previously postponed fixture between Rainey Old Boys and Enniscorthy will take place on the 11th of February at Hatrick Park in Magherafelt.

‘Scorthy will take the road again the following weekend up to Deramore Park in Belfast to face Belfast Harlequins on the 18th before capping off the month with a home-game against Galway Corinthians up at Alcast Park on the 25th.

Meanwhile, the J1s found it tough sledding over the course of the month, a loss on the road in Dublin against Old Belvedere by a scoreline of 47 to 20. The Dublin side held a 28-0 lead at half time. However, Enniscorthy scored 20 uncontested points in an inspiring comeback attempt, but were left hanging for a late onslaught from the hosts.

Next up was another trip, facing Greystones in Dr Hickey Park. Tries from Lee Treacy and Mel Doyle and two penalties from Fiachra Hourihane kept Enniscorthy in

control for 60 minutes, but a late flourish from the hosts gave them a 18-17 lead with five minutes to play.

Fiachra Hourihane kicked a penalty that Enniscorthy thought would win the game, however they were left gut wrenched after conceding a late penalty in scoring range, which was successfully kicked between the uprights, and with no time left Greystones came out the victors 21 to 20, heartbreak for the J1s.

The J1s fixtures over the course of February consist of a home game against Lansdowne on Saturday at 11.45am before a trip to Donnybrook on Sunday the 19th to face Old Wesley.

Making her mark

Congratulations to Eimear Leacy – the Enniscorthy teenager making her mark in the world of ice hockey. Last month, Eimear was named captain of Sweden for the European Youth Olympic Festival 2023 taking place in Austria.

Eimear lives in Sweden but her proud dad Paul is originally from Bellefield, Enniscorthy. Her grandmother Lily is still hail and hearty and living at Bellefield. Her grandfather, the late Pat, played football with the Starlights and Wexford for a long period and was a renowned goalkeeper. He worked at Enniscorthy Post Office for many years.

Our photo shows a 1940s Wexford team managed by Enniscorthy’s Martin Doyle and with Pat Leacy in the middle of front row.

It looks like Eimear didn’t lick her sporting prowess off a stone! n

Eimear Leacy

Eimear Leacy in action.

Bellefield Beat with Maria Nolan

January at Bellefield GAA has been all about walking, casting off those winter blues and shedding those festive pounds, and Rapparees/Starlights, wasting no time, began our healthy, get fit approach to 2023 with our annual Michael Foley Pudding Run on St. Stephen’s Day and then went straight into the Ireland Lights Up Campaign in association with Operation Transformation, Sport Ireland, Healthy Ireland, and the GAA.

We have been delighted with the amazing turn-out every Tuesday and Friday evening from 7pm.

It’s a marvellous opportunity to meet up with family, friends, and teammates, and put some miles on those legs in a perfectly safe environment.

It’s family friendly, for all age groups, well lit and accompanied by some good walking music thanks in the main to Stephen Murphy and Nicola Warren, chief organisers.

As part of the Ireland Lights Up initiative, the club has joined the Leinster GAA Step Challenge, the goal being for our walkers to complete 4,000km as a Club beginning on January 11th for five weeks.

Group from Pettitt’s SuperValu, Enniscorthy, sponsors of the new walking track.

If we pass this target, the club is in with a chance of winning substantial O’Neill’s vouchers.

Steps must be tracked using the Irish Life MyLife App.

The app can be synced to a device such as Fitbit, Garmin, etc.

You don’t have to attend the Ireland Lights Up walks in Bellefield to participate, any walking you do over the next couple of weeks counts, although we would love to see you join us at Bellefield on Tuesdays and Fridays at 7pm.

Come on everyone, let’s start walking up that leader board.

After a late start, the club are now in 27th position on the leader board out of a total of 247 clubs participating.

So keep walking everyone and new steppers are most welcome.

Our U/10s and U/12s are back training every Wednesday evening from 6.30pm at Enniscorthy CBS all weather pitch.

With 45 to 50 chaps in attendance most evenings, we are delighted to have so many members willing to give their time to pass the skills and love of hurling and football on to the next generation, and we would like to say a big thank you to them all and to Enniscorthy CBS for the use of their facilities.

A club can never have too many chaps, so please come along and join us on Wednesday evenings from 6.30pm.

Our Ladies Adult and Minor grades are back training on Sunday mornings from 10.30 at Enniscorthy athletic track getting in shape for the 2023 season.

Our weekly Bingo is at the clubhouse every Wednesday night from 8pm and tickets for our weekly Lotto can be purchased online, in pubs around the town, or from any member of Rapparees/Starlights.

It`s full steam ahead at Bellefield with our new and exciting development ‘Building Bellefield’ and we would like to thank all who bought tickets for our Bonanza Christmas Draw and those who have purchased a slot on our Patron Wall, which will be an attractive and poignant feature of our new initiative.

We are a progressive, innovative, all-inclusive club, our gates are always open, and all are welcome, so grab and friend and come along and join us, you won’t regret it.

– Words and pics by Maria Nolan

Above left: Ed Doran, Leo O’Connor and Padge Walsh. Above right: Stephen Murphy and Nicola Warren, organisers, with club chair man Ger McVeigh.

Michelle O'Neill appointed to FIFA Women's World Cup 2023

Enniscorthy’s Michelle O’Neill will feature as an assistant referee at this summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand from 20 July to 20 August.

Michelle’s CV is hugely impressive: She was one of the assistant referees for the 2019 World Cup final between the USA and the Netherlands and she also officiated at the 2015 edition so this will be her third World Cup.

In addition, Michelle officiated at the 2022 European Championships in England and also at the most recent Olympic Games in Tokyo. In August 2019, she was assistant referee for the UEFA Super Cup final between Liverpool and Chelsea.

When not travelling the world to work at important fixtures, Michelle plys her trade in the League of Ireland, and also works as a swimming coach.

Ferrycarrig 5k

see report on page 104

Backing Wexford FC

The Talbot Collection, Pettitt’s SuperValu, and Campion Insurance have put pen to paper to sponsor Wexford FC for the 2023 season.

The club has beefed up its squad ahead of the new campaign in a determined bid to gain promotion to the Premier division.

The club’s first game will be against their south-east rivals Waterford FC on February 17th at 7:45pm in Ferrycarrig Park. Your support is vital for the club’s success. n

Recent official unveiling of the new Wexford FC home and away jerseys.

1798 Centre opens

At the National 1798 Rebellion Centre, the story of 1798 is brought to life in an exciting interpretation of the tumultuous events of that time.

The Centre provides an interactive experience including motion-sensor audio and video recordings, which bring Irish history to life showing how the battle played out, the weapons used, what life was like back then, and what happened after.

The centre has re-opened for 2023 with Manager Mico Hassett saying, "We look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors this year. And we have free parking and our coffee shop is open, too."

Open Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 5.00pm and weekends from 12.00pm to 5.00 pm with last admission each day at 4.15pm

For more information visit www.1798centre.ie

For updates, visit https://www.facebook.com/1798centre n

New book on Liam Mellows launched

Gorey Sinn Féin Councillor Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin recently launched a new book titled: “LIAM MELLOWS and the Unfinished Revolution”.

Irish revolutionary Liam Mellows has been described as one of the ‘most radical and intellectually questioning of the 1916-22 Republican leaders.’ The author looks at his connection to Co. Wexford, with his formative years spent in Castletown, his life and times, his politics and his untimely death by firing squad at the hands of the new Free State government. Also, the relevance of his politics to the Ireland of today. The author draws on a wide range of sources with extensive use of quotations from speeches in the US and his writings at home – Mellows in his own voice.

Historian Dr. Ruan O’Donnell says: ‘This new commemorative publication is a refreshing and often challenging overview of one of Ireland’s most respected militant Republicans. The legacy of Liam Mellows continues to reverberate 100 years after his illegal execution at the hands of former comrades in Dublin.’

The book costs €12 and can be bought at Eason’s shops in Enniscorthy, Gorey and Wexford; Red Books, Wexford; Market House Visitor Centre shop in Gorey; and at various village outlets in the Gorey District. It can also be purchased at: www.sinnfeinbookshop.com n

Guides at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre: Paul and Mary. Pic: Enjoy Enniscorthy (www.enjoyenniscorthy.com)

Author Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin and Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald with the book at Castletown on 11th December 2022.

Co. Wexford – Parish by parish

On Our Own Ground: County Wexford Parish by Parish is on sale in the various branches of the County Wexford library service. Volume 1, 2 and 3 are all available, €30 per volume. Cash only sales.

This three-volume series, written and compiled by Dr Ned Culleton, with contributing editor Celestine Murphy, is a

stand out publication that details the built and natural heritage of County Wexford through the centuries. It is beautifully illustrated with colour photography, drawings and maps to compliment the detailed text.

On Our Own Ground provides researchers and local people with a record of the landscape, archaeological sites,

industrial, commercial and domestic buildings, and other man-made objects that dot the Wexford countryside. The books showcase the impact man has made on the landscape and his contribution to the heritage of our localities.

Contact your local branch for more information. n

Family History for beginners with Celestine Murphy

Gorey Library, Thursday, 23rd February 7-8pm.

A Family History for Beginners event with local historian Celestine Murphy.

Celestine Murphy is a former Librarian with Wexford County Council Public Library Service. For many years she was involved in the development of the Library's Local Studies Collections and in the delivery of its publishing programme.

Celestine is well known in her native Wexford as a lecturer, researcher, family history specialist, writer and publishing consultant. She has contributed to several local history journals and publications and is the author of Publish and be damned: some pratical advice for the community publisher (2002), and Between place and parish: a guide to the historical administrative divisions of County Wexford (2004), both published by Wexford County Council Library Service.

Booking essential, to reserve a place please call the library on 053 9483820. n

Celestine Murphy

The Murrintown Heroes

Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society was delighted to be part of a family-driven, poignant and dignified commemoration at Murrintown recently on the 100th anniversary of the death of Captain Bernard Radford and Lt. Con McCarthy, who were ambushed and fatally shot at Rossiter’s farm, Spenserstown, on 10th January 1923 by the Free State army.

The Murrintown Anti Treaty Brigade were hiding in a loft over the stable at Rossiter’s farmyard, Spenserstown, when members of the Free State army surrounded the farmyard, having received information as to the whereabouts of the Brigade.

Gunfire was exchanged between the two groups for over half an hour before the IRA Brigade dropped down from the loft into the stable below and took the decision to make a run for it rather than surrender.

Five of the seven escaped, but two were mortally wounded, Captain Bernard Radford and Lt. Con McCarthy.

The Commemoration one hundred years later was narrated by Jack Radford who called on Bernie Radford, Jim Quirke and Eleanor and Gerard Nolan to lay wreaths on behalf of the Radford and McCarthy families.

Toddy Radford delivered a most detailed, informative, and emotive account of the happenings of over one hundred years before, followed by The Murrintown Heroes sung by Paula, Martina, and Nicola Keane, accompanied by Joe, Kate, and Pete Radford-Savage.

The role of women through Cumann na mBan was remembered by Mar Radford followed by a verse of The Soldiers of Cumann na mBan recited by Fionn Radford O`Broin, her son.

The Proclamation was read by Hazel Radford and a decade of the Rosary recited as gaeilge by Mary Radford O`Rourke.

Blackstairs and Mount Leinster –placenames and their history

Thursday 16th February at 7pm in Bunclody Library.

Join Barry Dalby of EastWest Mapping for a talk on placenames and their history in the region of the Blackstairs Mountains and Mount Leinster.

Booking essential. To book a place, please call 053 93 75466. n

Then the large gathering was treated to a Civil War lament sung by the well-known, local singer Phil Berry, a piper’s lament, the National Anthem and a colour party volley from Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society brought the beautiful and fitting tribute to a close.

– Maria Nolan

Enniscorthy Castle reopens

Enniscorthy Castle reopened to the public on the 30th of January 2023.

A lot of work is going on there at present revamping the exhibition space with more interactive features and a focus on Norman and medieval history on the ground floor. A new Norman exhibition will launch there on 16th February. And one week later on 23rd February a second exhibition will launch celebrating the Irish Countrywomen’s Association.

Make sure also to check out the recent, excellent Enjoy Enniscorthy video of Enniscorthy Castle and the interview there with Derek Meyler, tour guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6B PgzvdB-Kc n

Looking back at Wexford in fifty photos with Nicky Rossiter

Join Nicky Rossiter, historian and author, as he takes us back over a number of decades of Wexford history through a collection of images from our past. Some of the images may be familiar but there will also be those getting their first “airing”.

Thursday 9th February at 7:00pm in Wexford Library. Booking is essential, contact the library on (053) 919 6760. n

Phil Berry singing a Civil War lament at Spenserstown. Pic: Maria Nolan.

Uí Cinsealaigh Historical Soc

Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, 14t

Above left: Fr James Hammell, Pat Brennan and Ken Hemingway.

Above right: Jim Hammond. Left: Fr Hamell and Kathleen Doyle. Right: Seán Doyle. Below left: Kathleen Mahon and Breda Kinsella. Below centre: Maureen Kavanagh. Below right: Mary French.

ciety Annual Dinner th December 2022.

Above left: Pat Kinsella. Above centre: Anne Butler.

Above right: Madge Murphy. Left: Bridget and Michael Hayden. Right: Aidan O’Leary.

Far right: Willie French.

Below left: Pat Kinsella and Kitty O’Reilly.

Below: Mary Joyce.

Below right: Fr James Hammell, Aidan O’Leary and Seamus Rafter.

Wexford’s water works

Commenting on importance of this project for the people of Wexford Town, Ian O’Neill, Infrastructure Delivery Programme Manager at Uisce Éireann, said: “This project is an important milestone and represents a significant investment by Uisce Éireann in future-proofing and safeguarding the water supply for the people of Wexford. The completed upgrades will modernise and improve the water treatment processes at the plant, ensuring raw water is treated to the highest water quality standards and will ensure a safe, clean drinking water supply in Wexford for current and future generations.”

Ian added, “Projects such as these are essential to allow Uisce Éireann to continue to support social and economic growth in Ireland through the delivery of essential water and wastewater services. We have made significant progress but there is work still to do as we continue to build and upgrade world-class water infrastructure through our multi-billion programme of investment. This project is just one of a number of critical projects being undertaken to safeguard the drinking water supply in Wexford and to ensure it is capable of meeting current and future demand.”

Uisce Éireann (Irish Water) working in partnership with Wexford County Council, was delighted to announce in early January the signing of a major new construction contract that will result in critical upgrades to the drinking water supply in Wexford town and surrounding areas. The project will ensure the delivery of safe, clean drinking water to homes and businesses and improve water quality and treatment standards for 26,000 customers.

The project will involve a €12 million upgrade to the Newtown Water Treatment Plant and includes significant improvements to the water treatment processes at the plant, ensuring raw water is treated to the highest water quality standards and compliance with current EU drinking water quality regulations. The project will also include a new standby generator to provide a safe and clean drinking water supply during extreme weather events. Irish engineering firm Glan Agua Ltd have been awarded the construction contract and will deliver the project on behalf of Uisce Éireann Construction, which is due to begin in March, and is set to be completed by the end of

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD welcomed the news that Irish Water and Wexford County Council have signed a major new construction contract to improve the water treatment processes at their Wexford town treatment plant. He said, “This significant investment in Newtown Water Treatment Plant will go a long way toward futureproofing and safeguarding the provision of clean and safe drinking water for the people of Wexford town. My Government colleagues and I are keen that projects such as this important investment in Wexford town’s water treatment processes get underway as quickly as possible to benefit the many families and businesses in Wexford town who rely on this vital public service. I’m glad that the construction contract will get underway this quarter and I will continue to work with my Government colleagues to ensure that this project becomes a reality as quickly as possible.”

Uisce Éireann keeps its customers informed about their water and wastewater supplies across multiple platforms 24/7 and it encourages customers to engage with it on Twitter @IWCare and through its customer care helpline which is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and by setting their location on www.water.ie n

Ian O’Neill, Infrastructure Delivery Programme Manager at Uisce Éireann.

Newtown Water Treatment Plant, Wexford.

Gorey water treatment plant upgrade

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD has confirmed that works on upgrading the Creagh Water Treatment Plant in Gorey will get underway this month which will benefit over 7,000 customers by providing improved water quality for the community and safeguarding the water supply for generations to come.

Irish Water (Uisce Éireann) and Wexford County Council have agreed the works with contractor EPS. The works will modernise and improve the plant’s water treatment processes, which will treat raw water to the highest of water quality standards.

Confirming the works, Minister Browne expressed his delight “that these necessary works will take place in the coming weeks. This is a positive development to

ensure that Gorey homeowners and businesses will benefit from a safe, clean drinking water supply.

“The upgrade works will include a range of measures including the installation of a UV device and the provision of additional treatment capacity. The chlorination system, warning systems, central controls and automation systems will also be upgraded. The works are expected to conclude next year. I will continue to work with Irish Water and Wexford County Council to ensure the speedy completion of these important works”, Minister Browne concluded.

Speaking about the project, Infrastructure Delivery Project Manager for Uisce Éireann, Hugh Kennedy, said: “Uisce Éireann is delighted to be investing in this significant and essential project for the people of Gorey. This important up-

grade is needed to ensure continued compliance with drinking water regulations and reduce the risk of water quality issues in the future.”

He added, “The upgrade works carried out as part of this project will also ensure the continued delivery of safe, clean drinking water to residents and businesses in Gorey and the surrounding area. We look forward to working with the local community as we continue to invest in the town’s future.”

As part of the upgrade at the Creagh Water Treatment Plant, Uisce Éireann will install an Ultra Violet (UV) device as the primary disinfection system, provide additional treatment capacity, upgrade the chlorination system and warning systems to futureproof protection at the plant. The central controls and automation systems will also be upgraded.

The works will be carried out by EPS Limited and are expected to be completed by early 2024. n

Register now for Spring Clean 23

Last year, over 5,600 clean-ups were organised and volunteers collected an estimated 2,800 tonnes of litter as part of the National Spring Clean campaign.

The National Spring Clean initiative is a great opportunity for volunteers to get out again and do their bit for their local environment, contribute to creating a more sustainable community, meet new like-minded people and make a difference.

This year participants are encouraged to record their events if they can, e.g. a short video or photos, and send them back to the national Spring Clean organisation via direct message so it can keep a record of all the wonderful work being done

To register, visit the website through the link below and be sure to check out the guidance document released in conjunction with Clean Coasts before undertaking your clean-up: https://nationalspringclean.org/ n

Free electrical recycling day

Do you have old household electrical appliances or batteries at home? WEEE Ireland are holding a FREE Electrical Recycling Day on Saturday 4th February at Wexford Racecourse, 10am to 4pm.

Recycle your e-waste – fridges, phones, laptops, lawnmowers, power tools, anything from your household with a plug or battery will be accepted. n

These six ‘R’s can save our planet!

Refuse single use plastics (bags, cups, etc)

Rethink your choices

Reuse as much as possible

Repair before you replace

Recycle all packaging and plastic bottles

Rot all your organic stuff and put it back into the soil n

Energy supports and resources

There are a number of government supports and resources available to help businesses mitigate the impact of energy price rises and become more energy efficient, whether you are beginning your journey to sustainability or at an advanced stage.

https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/what-we-do/supports-forsmes/energy-supports/

Green loans from Enniscorthy Credit Union

Need to retrofit your cold, 1970s house? Enniscorthy Credit Union’s Green Loan is designed to help you do just that – with one of its lowest rates for a loan 5.25% (5.4% APR) you can save money, save energy and save the environment with Enniscorthy Credit Union!

Talk to them today at 053 9233835 or email: loans@enniscorthycu.ie n

Radon monitoring

Radon Monitors are available to borrow in all Co. Wexford’s public libraries. All you need to borrow one is a library card! Please contact your local branch for details.

NEW BIODIVERSITY FUNDING AVAILABLE

Wexford stands to benefit as funding for locally-led biodiversity projects is doubled to €3m.

Malcolm Noonan TD, Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, last month announced a doubling of funding to the Local Biodiversity Action Fund to €3 million for 2023. Local Authorities can now apply to the National Parks and Wildlife Service to avail of this funding to deliver local biodiversity projects. Over €66,000 was allocated to local projects through the Wexford Local Authority in 2022.

First launched in 2018, the Local Biodiversity Action Fund offers funding to help Local Authorities achieve actions identified in the National Biodiversity Action Plan, recognising the important role they plan in addressing the biodiversity emergency. This funding stream enables the development of projects that address biodiver sity loss in Local Authority areas by helping to create new habi tats, restoring existing ones and by tackling invasive alien species. The scheme, operated by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Housing, Local Govern ment and Heritage, has proven hugely popular, with 109 projects funded in 2022. A wide variety of projects were financed in cluding in the areas of Wetland Restoration, Bird Surveys, Dune Restora tion, Biodiversity Awareness and Invasive Alien Species.

Commenting on the announce ment, Minister Noonan said:

“I’m delighted to be able to double the funding for this vital biodiversity

2023 Local Biodiversity

Action Fund supports Local Authorities to progress local biodiversity projects.

Local Authorities can now apply for funding for 2023 projects.

Funded projects must align to the actions of the National Biodiversity Action Plan.

funding scheme, which has proven immensely popular with Local Authorities, who have carried out really impactful projects with the funding. We have seen in-

creasing participation in biodiversity and invasive species projects year-on-year, and the benefits of this are shared by all of us, not least local communities.

“Reversing biodiversity loss is among the greatest challenges of our times. Locallyled initiatives can be extremely impactful – supporting them is an important part of the response. Local Authorities play an important role in these efforts. Combined with our announcement last year of the appointment of Biodiversity Officers in the Local Authorities, today’s funding increase will allow the Local Authorities to play an ever more active role in our plans to address biodiversity loss. The State has increased its funding to the NPWS in light of the biodiversity crisis and I’m delighted that we’re able to in turn increase funding to important initiatives such as this.”

Examples of projects that received funding in 2022 include:

A survey to increase understanding of the health of Barn Owl populations in County Wexford and to ensure that nest sites are safeguarded, while building capacity at a local level for Barn Owl conservation to secure the future of the species in the county.

The continuation of a dune restoration project for Wexford with four coastal sites selected where the dune system is under pressure from erosion and trampling. The sites are located at Morriscastle beach, Ballinesker beach, Rosslare beach and Booley Bay beach.

A Phase 1 Wetland Survey of County Wexford with plans to commission a GIS compatible wetland database and a report with recommendations for future survey priorities. n

ChangeX is a non-profit, community engagement platform designed to get funding and resources directly into the hands of everyday people to lead impactful projects in their neighbourhoods. It has launched the Accenture Sustainable Community Challenge, supported by Accenture. The initiative, designed to enable community groups to kickstart sustainability projects in their own locality, is now open for applications. Successful applicants will receive the resources, seed funding and support needed to start a project in their local community, empowering them to build thriving and sustainable communities.

Groups can choose from a portfolio of proven ideas that have already had a positive impact in other communities in Ireland and around the world. Ideas include Community Fridge, which supports the sharing of surplus food and the reduction of food waste, and Open Orchard, which connects communities through the planting of fruit trees in public places.

This is the second Accenture Sustainable Community Challenge launched by ChangeX in Ireland. It builds on the success of the 2021 Challenge, which supported 22 local groups to start environmental sustainability projects, benefitting over 2,200 people in communities across Ireland.

Sustainable Skerries community group received funding in 2021 to start an Open Orchard project in North County Dublin. “Over 50 people, adults and children, took part and planted 20 trees in our first Open Orchard, right in the middle of Skerries,” said Sabine McKenna, Chair of Sustainable Skerries. “The day – and the

Kickstarting sustainability projects

✔ ChangeX and Accenture launch €70,000 fund to support environmental sustainability projects in communities across Wexford

✔ Local community groups, organisations and individuals encouraged to apply for funding and resources

✔ Builds on the success of 2021 programme, which supported 22 community projects across Ireland

wider project – was very much about community building, working on the planting together and then sharing some tea and cakes and chatting.”

Deirdre Murphy, Corporate Sustainability Lead at Accenture in Ireland added, “All of us are more aware than ever before of the responsibility we have to take action to address the climate and biodiversity crises. At Accenture, we’re working to embed sustainability into everything we do, and with everyone we work with, including in our communities and when crowdsourcing innovations that will help drive sustainable impact globally. Communities truly hold the power to be catalysts for real change, and we’re excited to be able to play a small part in empowering community action in Ireland through our partnership with ChangeX.”

Groups, individuals, and organisations who are passionate about building a thriving community are encouraged to apply to roll out one of the six initiatives for their community at www.changex.org. Seed funding will be allocated to qualifying applicants on a first-come, first-served basis.

To date, more than 20,000 community projects have started through the ChangeX platform, with local groups across Ireland, Europe, the United States and Latin America accessing the ideas, support and funding needed to have a measurable impact in their local area.

For more information:

https://www.changex.org/ie/funds/accenture-sustainable-community-challenge-ireland n

FREE Period Product Locations across County Wexford

Did you know that free period products, for those that need them, are available in a range of locations across County Wexford.

Free Products are available in public toilets at the following locations:

Products are also available for those from the Traveller or Roma Communities by contacting:

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Mona Fusteac, Roma Health Advocate Support Worker FDYS.086 0570612

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