Trudie Power (right), Chairperson, Wexford Food Producers Network, with Breege Cosgrave, Head of the Economic Unit, Wexford Co. Council, at the Network’s recent AGM in Marlfield House, Gorey.
Pic: Mary Browne.
Frizelle McCarthy Solicitors
Annette McCarthy B.C.L.
Suzanne Carthy B.A. L.L.B.
Jillian O’Shea L.L.B.
Reliable advice on all aspects of the law since 1929
Solicitors & Commissioners for Oaths
Haven Kavanagh’s Pharmacy
All Polarised Sunglasses Half Price during August
Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, Y21 W5T1 Tel: 053 92 33547 Email: info@fmclaw.ie DUFFRY HILL, ENNISCORTHY. T: (053) 9234660.
Welcome to the August issue of the Slaney News.
President Michael D. Higgins will attend the Opening Ceremony of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford Town this Sunday, 4th August, from 4pm at the Gig Rig in the town (Y35 V635). This ceremony will kick off a week-long celebration of Irish music, dance, song, storytelling, and comhrá Gaeilge that will run from the 4th to 11th of August.
The event is organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and is hosted by the local Wexford Town Fleadh Executive Committee in association with Wexford County Council. We have included several pages about the Fleadh in this issue and also check our Facebook post of 31st July which includes the full traffic management plan and detailed maps.
It’s just over a year now since the Enniscorthy East Community Development group was set up to give a stronger voice to Eastside residents and to advocate for the betterment of life on that side of town. Using the motto ‘Focus on what’s Strong, not what’s Wrong’ the group has been hugely successful and on pages 28-29 they take a look back at their first year in existence.
We include as always a huge number of photos taken around Enniscorthy, and beyond. If you would like to purchase any of our photos please get in touch by email at slaneynews@gmail.com
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 online format. Tel: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has around 12,500 Followers. And, of course, if you like our format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you
– Frank Corcoran
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SLANEY NEWS
€2.5m in LEADER grants for niche tourism, food, and circular economy businesses
The new LEADER 2023-2027 Programme has almost €2.5 million in grant aid available for the enterprise and social enterprise sectors in Co. Wexford between now and 2027.
Tom Bermingham, LEADER Programme Coordinator at Wexford Local Development (WLD), confirmed that grant aid of up to 60% of eligible costs is now available for niche new and expanding businesses. In a change from previous LEADER Programmes, grant aid for projects which facilitate job creation and economic development is confined to business involved in tourism, food and/or the circular economy.
Mindful that promotion of the circular and bioeconomy in Wexford can bring significant environmental and economic benefits, the new LEADER Programme will prioritise projects that address climate change, demon strate environmental sustainability, re source efficiency, job sustainability and job creation. With the triple aims of delivering sustainable economic growth, reducing waste, and preserv ing natural resources.
In terms of tourism, WLD will prioritise projects that promote sustainable tourism and adopt eco-friendly practices. This will include alternative accommodation types that will attract more visitors, create new employment opportunities, boost the local economy, protect and enhance our county’s environment and, at the same time, preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the county. Meanwhile, niche, innovative food and beverage businesses will continue to be supported with LEADER grant aid for equipment as well as marketing supports.
Acknowledging that social enterprises combine business principles with positive social and/or environmental purposes, LEADER will support social enterprises that develop new and innovative solutions to challenges not adequately addressed by the state or private enterprise. This includes community tourism focused social enterprises that empower local
communities, preserve cultural heritage, protect the environment, and ensure that the economic benefits of tourism contribute to the overall well-being of the community.
For details on eligibility and how to apply visit www.wld.ie/leader n
Tom Bermingham Paul Sinnott
Hand Produced in Enniscorthy
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Visit our Website www.holos.ie
BARISTA & CAFÉ SKILLS
Course Description
The aim of the course is to provide learners with the skills and related knowledge around coffee preparation, service and health & safety in the hospitality industry. This course will run each Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday for 9 weeks (start time is 10am).
Certification
Upon successful completion of this course, learners will receive the following City and Guilds Award: Level 2 Award in Barista Skills 71023-53
Course Equipment & Materials
All course materials will be provided.
Course Content
BARISTA SKILLS & COFFEE MENU KNOWLEDGE
PREPARE BEVERAGES FOR SERVICE
CUSTOMER SERVICE SKILLS
MANUAL HANDLING & FIRE SAFETY
FOOD SAFETY AND HYGIENE
FIRST AID RESPONDER
CAREER PLANNING &
JOB SEEKING SKILLS
Job Opportunities
This programme is suitable for learners who are seeking certification to enable them to source employment in the hospitality industry including cafés and other food and beverage outlets. Learners also have the opportunity to progress to further education and training.
Learner Entry Requirements
Education: Learners must have reached the statutory school leaving age. While there are no specific entry requirements learners should have the academic ability to successfully complete the program, Junior Certificate or similar.
Previous Experience: No previous experience required.
Aptitude: Good verbal and written command of the English Language is required.
Remembering John ‘Urney’ Byrne
THE RAINY CONDITIONS DIDN'T DAMPEN THE SPIRITS OF THOSE WHO ATTENDED LAST MONTH FOR THE UNVEILING OF A PLAQUE ON A BENCH AT DUFFRY GATE, ENNISCORTHY, IN MEMORY OF A WELLKNOWN RESIDENT OF THAT AREA –THE LATE JOHN 'URNEY' BYRNE, R.I.P.
John was a renowned sportsman particularly in GAA and handball circles. Cllr Jacker Owens reminds us that John scored 1-3 for Wexford in the 1980 AllIreland Minor Hurling Final.
John worked for the local Enniscorthy Council for 20 years and was a well known and respected employee who went above and beyond to keep the town looking its best, its various festivals and events running smoothly, and ably assisting with any emergencies in the town.
Speakers at the unveiling were Cllr Jackser Owens and Claire Lawless, Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager, who said that John was "a valued member of the town crew, and all staff would agree that he is greatly missed. He worked hard and Wexford County Council acknowledges the great contribution John (Urney) Byrne gave to Enniscorthy District." n
Below: Present for the unveiling were Cllr. Aidan Browne (Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District), Cllr Jackser Owens and Cllr John O’Rourke, Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager Claire Lawless, John Byrne’s family members and work colleagues.
Above: John's family members L-R: Marissa Byrne, Jackie Byrne, Alec Cooney, Alison Cooney, Lydia Byrne, Catherine Byrne Coooney, Matty Donnelly, Linda Donnelly, Anne Donnelly.
Below: John Urney Byrne R.I.P.
New arrangements for parking payments in Wexford’s towns
Wexford County Council has announced a new cashless option (eParking), for parking in Co. Wexford’s towns, in partnership with ParkMagic. Cash will continue to be accepted also.
From 17th June 2024 payments in relation to public parking, through the former provider APCOA Connect, will no longer be accepted.
Wexford Co. Council believes the new Wexford eParking solution will transform the way that residents and visitors manage their parking needs, saying that Wexford eParking is userfriendly, offers a more efficient and seamless experience to motorists, and enhances the overall convenience of parking across Wexford.
Users can easily pay for parking through: Mobile app.
Wexford County Council website.
Participating retail outlets in Gorey, Enniscorthy, New Ross and Wexford.
The new Wexford eParking service came into operation in all public parking locations from 17th June, 2024. n
Enniscorthy Community Services JOB VACANCIES
Community Employment Programme
COMMUNITY VISITOR
Scheme Category: Adult Community Care Worker.
Scheme Location: COMMUNITY INFORMATION SERVICES, 6 Main Street, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Y21 YE16.
Contract Type: Temporary.
Job Type: Community Employment.
Start date: To Be Confirmed.
End date: To Be Confirmed.
Hours per fortnight: 39 Hours per Fortnight.
Positions: 6.
Salary Type: Community Employment Programme Rates.
Remote/Blended Working: No.
Sector: Other Service Activities.
Application Details:
Eligibility to participate on CE is generally linked to those who are 21 years or over and in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment for 1 year or more or 18 years and over for certain disadvantaged groups. Your eligibility will have to be verified by the Department.
You can register your interest by contacting a case officer in your local Intreo Centre.
Applicants should supply suitable character references and be prepared to complete a Garda vetting application form.
Duties Will Include:
This is a developmental opportunity, no experience necessary. Accredited training will be provided to support your career.
Visitation of the elderly in their own homes. You will be paired with another employee when visiting the elderly in their own home. Here you will chat with the elderly, providing social interaction. Some weeks you will also be called on to deliver meals on wheels within Enniscorthy, to our clients. The working schedule is week on, week off, 39 hours per week. Training is also available while taking part in CE employment. The aim of training is to help you in obtaining full time employment. The training will have to be a credited QQI course.
COMMUNITY INFORMATION OFFICER
Scheme Category: Information Manager.
Scheme Location: COMMUNITY INFORMATION SERVICES, 6 Main Street, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Y21 YE16.
Contract Type: Temporary.
Job Type: Community Employment.
Start date: To Be Confirmed.
End date: To Be Confirmed.
Hours per week: 19.5 Hours.
Position: 1.
Salary Type: Community Employment Programme Rates.
Remote/Blended Working: No.
Sector: Information and Communication.
Application Details:
Eligibility to participate on CE is generally linked to those who are 21 years or over and in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment for 1 year or more or 18 years and over for certain disadvantaged groups. Your eligibility will have to be verified by the Department.
You can register your interest by contacting a case officer in your local Intreo Centre.
Applicants should supply suitable character references and be prepared to complete a Garda vetting application form.
Duties Will Include:
This is a developmental opportunity, no experience necessary. Accredited training will be provided to support your career.
To deliver information on a wide range of topics, social welfare, health etc. to those that require it. This is a drop in service, where training will be provided. 19.5 hours per week spread out over 2½ days. Training is also available while taking part in CE employment. The aim of training is to help you in obtaining full time employment. The training will have to be a credited QQI course.
KILCANNON GARDEN CENTRE AND RESTAURANT
Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 92 35514. Find us on www.reachability.ie and www.facebook.com/KilcannonGC
Kilcannon Garden Centre - Your Ultimate Garden Destination
It’s time to cultivate your summer dreams with our full range of flower and vegetable seeds in stock. We also have all the accessories you will need to help you have a bountiful supply of fresh veg and a tidal wave of summer colour. And don’t forget our huge range of patio and container plants and our serene range of houseplants. And now is the time to think about your summer and autumn flowering bulbs.
Transform your garden into an outdoor haven with Kilcannon Garden Centre. From vibrant garden plants to charming indoor plants, we have everything you need to make your garden flourish all year round. Our expert staff are here to provide you with expert advice on gardening and planting, ensuring your garden looks stunning. Don't miss out on our delightful home-cooked meals and freshly baked scones at Kilcannon Restaurant, which locals and visitors love. Pop in for a tasty bite and a chat with friends in a welcoming atmosphere. Visit us at Kilcannon Garden Centre on Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, to explore our high-quality plants grown on-site. Our fully trained horticulturists are ready to assist you with all your gardening needs.
Why don’t you call in store now and we’ll be more than happy to share our advice.
Come and visit our garden centre today or simply pop in for a cup of coffee. Follow us on social media for gardening tips and updates.
Kilcannon Garden Centre and Restaurant, Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 92 35514. Find us on www.reachability.ie and www.facebook.com/KilcannonGC
Adult Literacy
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Are you interested in cookery? Upcoming beginners and improvers courses for you Cookery Connects A Variety of Cooking Skills Mondays, 6-9pm •Starting 2nd September Course Code: 438005
Cookery Skills and Food Waste Reduction (QQI Level 3) Thursdays 9.30am – 1.30pm •Starting 19th September Course Code: 440951
Wednesdays 10am – 1pm
•Starting 4th September Course Code: 437988
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For more information, phone Anne on 086 781 5062
COMMUNITY EDUCATION
Bunclody Men’s Woodcarving Course Woodcarving Wednesdays, 9.30am – 1.30pm September 2024 to April 2025
Bunclody Sewing Course Beginners sewing Wednesdays, 9.30am – 12.30pm September 2024 to May 2025
Sow Store Serve Food preservation Tuesdays, 10.00am – 1.00pm September 2024 to November 2024
Bunclody Traveller Women’s Group Fridays, 6.30pm – 9.30pm September 2024 to May 2025
Spaces are available to use in the Bunclody Further Education and Training Centre for local community groups to run community education classes.
For further information please contact: Yvonne O’Connor E: yvonneoconnor@wwetb.ie T: 086 152 5776 PART-TIME PROGRAMMES (BTEI) Level 3
New play facilities for Enniscorthy
St John’s Community Activity Garden
Work is expected to commence later this month at the site which is at the entrance to the St John’s complex on Munster Hill. The new community activity garden with a small outdoor amphitheatre and sensory garden will be open to the general public once complete.
Playful Spaces Project
Funding has been secured from the Department of Health for musical equipment for the Orchard Peace Park. The aim of the project is to improve physical activity and mental wellbeing through playful ideas, and to bring more users to the park. The musical instruments are expected on site later this month.
All-Weather Astro Pitch, Ross Road, Enniscorthy
The official signing of the Maintenance and Operation contract took place on 20th May 2024. Work has continued on site since then. The expected completion date of the project is the week commencing 19th August 2024. n
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Ashmore Mortgage & Financial Services Ltd trading as Ashmore Financial Services is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
Enniscorthy Credit Union’s Scholarship Draw
Enniscorthy Credit Union, with offices in Enniscorthy, Ballymurn, Murrintown and Taghmon, prides itself on the contribution it makes to our local community and the members it serves therein. Part of this contribution is the annual Brenda O’Neill Scholarship Draw for intending college students who are members of Enniscorthy Credit Union. The draw is open to ALL STUDENTS, IN ANY YEAR. To take part the student must be a registered student in college and be a member of Enniscorthy Credit Union. Scholarship Draw forms are available online and in all its offices.
There are two prizes for Third Level students and one prize for PLC/Level 5 students, you could win either €1,500 or €1,000 per year – for max 3 years and the PLC prize is €500 one-off payment. The draw is completely free to enter; the student
must be a member of Enniscorthy Credit Union. You can enter in any of the offices in Enniscorthy, Ballymurn, Taghmon or Murrintown and the closing date for applications is 4.00pm, Saturday October 26th. Full information is available on the website.
Get your application in as soon as possible, you can follow up with proof of registration later. If you are not a member you can easily become a member online and enter – you can Join on the Enniscorthy CU App or website enniscorthycu.ie. The reality of the cost of third level education becomes all too real for parents and students at this time of year. Enniscorthy Credit Union offers an Education Loan at a special rate of 6.2% APR* with flexibility to meet members’ needs. This helps make covering the costs of third level education as affordable as possible for students. n
Standing out from the crowd
taurants opening up all around Ennis corthy in recent years, one name stands out for being 33 years in existence, and continuing to go from strength to strength... the Abbey Restaurant in the Abbey Centre.
A restaurant doesn’t survive and thrive for that long without doing a lot of things right and the Abbey Restaurant certainly ticks all the right boxes, serving delicious, generous-size portions of traditional, homecooked food, matched by a friendly and attentive service.
Many of its customers have been enjoying the food and hospitality there for all of those 33 years. On our recent visit we spoke with two long-standing customers – Ann Kirwan and Michael Brennan (see photo on opposite page) –who have been customers there for more years than they care to remember!
Mary Cummins in 1991, and she was very much the driving force behind the restaurant’s development for over 20 years. In 2014 Mary handed the reins over to her son Dennis but Mary still remains very active in the business creating the daily specials and doing a lot of the homemade desserts. She really is the benevolent matriarch of the restaurant and according to Dennis and his partner Alice, “We would be lost without her.”
Celebrating their ten-year milestone at the helm, Dennis and Alice count themselves very fortunate indeed to have taken over such a long established and vibrant business. And with four children in their own family, there’s a good chance it will get handed down to another generation!
The Abbey Restaurant prides itself on being child-friendly, catering for kids of all ages. It also caters for vegetarians,
home.
Its menu is comprehensive – big breakfasts, lovely lunches, delicious dinners, great grills, beautiful burgers, salads, soup and sandwiches, divine desserts, as well as a special kids menu and wide selection of beverages.
If you’ve missed out on the fabulous fare on offer over the last 33 years, then now’s the right time to give the Abbey Restaurant a try. And while you’re there, make sure to wish Dennis and Alice a happy ten-year anniversary at the helm.
The Abbey Restaurant, Abbey Centre, Enniscorthy. Open Monday to Saturday 9am - 5.30pm. Keep up to date on Facebook: ‘The Abbey Restaurant Enniscorthy’ (https://www.facebook.com/profile.ph p?id=61557243484057) n
Dennis, Alice and Mary along with staff members Sharon and Helena, and baby Robyn.
Top left: Dennis and Mary ready to serve you. Top right: Alice with baby Robyn, and Dennis and Mary, in the colourful outdoor dining area. Above right: Alice with baby Robyn in the spacious interior.
Above: Ann Kirwan and Michael Brennan enjoying the fine fare.
Right: The Abbey Restaurant caters for kids of all ages.
Wexford’s solidarity with Gaza
Taking inspiration from the words of Martin Luther King Jr: "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere", the Wexford branch of Amnesty International is holding weekly vigils in solidarity with the people of Gaza, highlighting the sav-
Interesting!
AFTER CARRICK-ON-SHANNON, ENNISCORTHY HAS THE SECOND HIGHEST BIRTH RATE IN THE COUNTRY!!!
Carrick-On-Shannon had the highest fertility rate in the country in 2021, according to recent figures from the Central Statistics Office.
The findings are part of the CSO's Births and Deaths at Local Electoral Areas report for that year.
The Co Leitrim town had a 61.2 fertility rate per 1,000 women aged between 15 and 49.
Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, was second with a rate of 60.8 and Ballybay-Clones, Co. Monaghan, was third with 60.6.
The lowest rate was recorded in the South-East Inner City in Dublin which had a rate of 29.8. n
age, brutal and terrifying injustices occurring there every day, remembering all those killed in the Israel–Palestine conflict, calling for a permanent and immediate ceasefire and demanding Israel allow unimpeded urgent medical aid into Gaza.
The vigils take place at 6.30pm every Thursday at Redmond Square in Wexford town. All are invited to attend and show support.
Follow ‘Amnesty International Wexford Group’ on Facebook. n
Happy 70th Birthday to Marion Doran as she celebrated with her friends at the Delightful Dollies gathering on 31st July 2024 in Bellefield GAA complex.
A monthly column by GreenTechHQ
Join Us for an Unforgettable Breakfast on August 16th, featuring two Irish sporting legends!
The Titans of Sports Leadership Breakfast will host professional rugby player with Leinster, Ireland and the Lions, Tadhg Furlong, and legend in boxing and current Team USA Olympic Boxing Coach Billy Walsh. The morning promises to inspire you with their stories of leadership, perseverance, dedication, and success. This is a unique opportunity to connect with champions who have made their mark in the world of sports and beyond.
Date: August 16th, 2024, 8.30am to 10.30am.
Chew & Chats: Registration from 8.15am with breakfast bites.
Places are limited so register your interest now by contacting admin@greentechhq.com n
TFI Local Link Enniscorthy services
TFI LOCAL LINK WEXFORD – 3 TYPES OF BUS SERVICE:
❶ REGULAR RURAL SERVICES (RRS):
These operate to a set timetable, multiple times a day. These services do NOT require booking.
Four Bus Routes serve Enniscorthy seven days a week incl public holidays (see timetables with this article):
RRS 359 New Ross to Enniscorthy via Rathnure
RRS 368 New Ross – Enniscorthy
RRS 369 Enniscorthy – Bunclody – Tullow
RRS 384 Wexford to Enniscorthy
Elsewhere in Co. Wexford:
RRS 387 Wexford – Rosslare
RRS 388 Duncormick – Wexford
RRS 389 Riverchapel – Gorey
RRS 399 Hook Head to New Ross
RRS 392 Wellingtonbridge to New Ross
❷ DEMAND RESPONSIVE TRANSPORT (DRT):
These are services that have a start and end time but the route may vary according to passenger bookings. Many of these services pick passengers up from their homes, offering a door-to-door service. These services generally operate one or two days each week and booking is advised by 3pm the day before one wishes to travel. There are no age restrictions on this service – it is open to all.
In the Enniscorthy area there are 8 DRT services as follows:
Glenbrien to Wexford on Wednesdays and Fridays: Glenbrien 10am, Ballymurn 10.05am, pick-ups on route..., North Castlebridge 10.25am, Redmond Square 10.30am. Returning: Redmond Square 1pm, North Castlebridge 1.05pm, drop-offs on route..., Ballymurn 1.25pm, Glenbrien 1.30pm.
Oulart to Wexford on Wednesdays and Fridays: Oulart village 9.40am, Ballytarsna 9.45am, Iskabeg 9.50am, The Ballagh 10am, Ballymurray 10.10am, Ballylucas Cross 10.15am, Wexford 10.30am. Returning: Wexford 1.30pm, Ballylucas Cross 1.45pm, Ballymurray 1.50pm, The Ballagh 2pm, Iskabeg 2.10pm, Ballytarsna 2.15pm, Oulart village 2.20pm.
* These 5 services can accommodate drop-offs and pick-ups at the Enniscorthy Primary Care Centre at Quarrypark.
All above DRT times are approximate and based on bookings. Timetables: https://locallinkwexford.ie/rural-wexford-timetable/ Call 053 901 1828 to find out more.
❸ SUMMER BEACH SERVICE:
Enniscorthy to Curracloe Wexford to Curracloe
Gorey to Ballymoney Kilmuckridge to Morriscastle Beach Services operate Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays from June 1st to September 1st 2024. Beach fares are based on single journeys: Family (2 adults/2 children) €5, adult €2, child/student €1. Kilmuckridge to Morriscastle is a FREE service. These services will run daily August 5th to 18th, 2024, with the exception of Wexford to Curracloe which will not be in operation during the Fleadh Cheoil from 4th to 11th August 2024.
Route 359:
Route 359 (on opposite page) is a key route for those living on the east side of Enniscorthy with stops at Templeshannon, St. Senan’s Church, opposite Fr Cullen Terrace, Vinegar Hill Villas, and Esmonde Road. And with a stop at Marconi Park near Lidl/Aldi it makes shopping at those outlets more convenient for eastside residents.
The Enniscorthy to Curracloe Beach Service operates Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays from June 1st to September 1st 2024 and will run daily from August 5th to 18th 2024. Below is the timetable. For other beach services see: https://locallinkwexford.ie/wpcontent/uploads/2024/05/Beaches-2024-Timetable.pdf
Fares:
All TFI Local Link Wexford Fares are very reasonable, The Free Travel Pass is valid on all services, and children under 5 can travel for free. TFI Local Link fares include single, return, student, and child fares. Cash is accepted on all TFI Local Link services. Fares are subject to change and vary from service to service.
Local Link contact details:
For enquiries contact TFI Local Link Wexford 053 901 1828.
For daily updates, check out the Local Link Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/locallinkwexford/ n
Note: The stop for the beach service in Enniscorthy is on The Prom and NOT at the Bus Stop Shop on Templeshannon.
McSorley’s huge vote of confidence in Enniscorthy
Up to 50 people employed in 3 local stores
Enniscorthy has always been a town with a strong sense of community. This was the attraction that brought McSorley retail to the town with the opening of the Drive Service Station on Milehouse Road.
While trading there and driving by an unopened site in Quarrypark, it became clear that this should be their second site in Enniscorthy. When they approached the landlord and agreed a deal, they proudly opened their second store finally bringing this unused eyesore up to a modern Drive Service Station and Centra Store.
Not being one to sit still, when an opportunity became available last year to add the Daybreak Store in Greenville Lane, they took the chance and brought it into the group and rebranding as a Centra Store. In 2024, the company spent over €350,000 upgrading the store to the wonderful store it is today.
The group owner Martin McSorley opened his first store in 2005 in his hometown of Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo. His dedication to quality service and community engagement set a high standard, which Martin continued to uphold and build upon.
McSorley’s Drive Service Stations and Centra Stores have since spread across multiple locations, ensuring that a wide range of customers can experience the quality and convenience his stores offer. In Enniscorthy, the stores on Milehouse Road, Quarrypark, and Greenville Lane have become integral parts of the community. County Wexford residents also benefit from McSorley Stores in Courtown and Ballinaboola. Beyond Wexford, there are stores in Portlaoise, Leighlinbridge, Sligo and Longford that continue to uphold the same standards of excellence.
This year, along with the investment in Centra Greenville Lane, a significant investment of over €150,000 was made in
both Milehouse Road and Quarrypark sites. The upgrades include a refurbishment and an expanded product range. The investment demonstrates Martin’s dedication to continually improving the shopping experience in the Enniscorthy area.
Martin explained, “Our stores are designed with the customer in mind. One of the standout features of our stores is our commitment to convenience without sacrificing quality. With extended opening hours, well-stocked shelves, and friendly staff always ready to assist our customers. The Greenville Lane Centra store also includes the Chipmonger Takeaway which will shortly receive an upgrade and revamp of its own.
McSorley’s Drive Service Station and Centra Store at Quarrypark.
McSorley’s Centra Store at Greenville Lane.
Demonstrating a strong commitment to the community, McSorley’s Centra stores proudly sponsor the Marshalstown GAA Camogie under 14s team, Adamstown GAA, Cushinstown GAA and other local clubs in Sligo, Carlow and Longford. Martin added, “Supporting local sports helps foster teamwork and healthy lifestyles among youth. Additionally, we have monthly collections for local and national charities, most recently supporting the Cancer Society and the Samaritans.” These initiatives highlight Martin and his team’s dedication to giving back and making a positive impact.
In Enniscorthy alone, Martin employs up to 50 people. A diverse workforce from the local community, from part time students for the summer months, to full time Managers. This inclusive environment fosters a strong sense of community and belonging, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and valued.
Long term staff members Donna Reilly and Paul Robinson also shared their insights into working with McSorley’s Centra Stores Enniscorthy. Donna, who has been a part of the Enniscorthy team for over six years, says, “Working with Martin and the Enniscorthy team has been incredibly rewarding. It has given me a chance to grow both professionally and personally. I started my career as sales assistant in our Milehouse Road store, I progressed there to Assistant Manager, then moved to the Manager’s position in Quarrypark and now I’m excited to bring my experience and enthusiasm to our Greenville Store.”
Paul Robinson, another seasoned employee, adds, “My long tenure with the company has allowed me to build strong relationships with both colleagues and customers and to witness firsthand the company’s evolution and successes. I have been presented with unique challenges and learning opportunities, which have greatly contributed to my development and passion for what I do.”
For those who haven’t yet experienced the convenience and quality of McSorley’s Centra Stores, now is the perfect time to visit.
OPENING HOURS:
Quarrypark & Greenville:
07:00-22:00 Mon-Sat
08:00-22:00 Sun
Milehouse:
07:00-23:00 Mon-Sat
08:00-23:00 Sun n
McSorley • Enniscorthy
Coláiste Bríde Grad
Above right: Dylon Browne and Ella O’Rourke.
Left: Aoife Wildes, Adan Gora and Lena Bolger. Right: Josh Murphy and Marta Janqszczyk.
Below left: Daniel Cosgrave, Allonna Ormond, Rachel Cooper and Evan Miller.
Below right: Erin Carley and Kevin Dwyer.
Above left: Luke Wheelock, Megan Ryan, Katie Doyle and Cian McCormack.
Top left: Molly Brady, Katie Collins, Sophie Cummins and Elaine Hourihans. Top right: Abbie Doyle and Karen Hayden. Below left: Aoife Fitzhenry and Lily Nolan. Below centre: Kiefer Healy and Ruby Kelly. Below right: Mother and daughter Ellen and Katelyn Swaine.
Above: Lee Kelly, Katie Murphy and Ciara Kehoe. Right: Jenna Moorehouse, Jake O’Rourke and Emma O’Sullivan.
Plans are proceeding for new Enniscorthy Women’s Shed
Kristyna and Alfie, the team behind Creative Grounds on Irish Street, are pushing ahead with plans for a Women’s Shed in Enniscorthy. They say, “A huge thank you to all the lovely ladies that attended our recent meet ups, or contacted us to discuss the starting of a new Women's Shed in Enniscorthy. We have been amazed at the response so far and all the feedback and ideas have been fantastic. As you can appreciate, setting up a large group to cater for a wide variety of activities will take some time to coordinate. However, our aim is to begin in early September.”
In addition to social media posts, they will be sending out an email to all those who have registered their interest with further information about how the new women's shed will work.
If you would like to join the mailing list, send an email directly to: womensshed@email.com with your name, contact number and email address. Or pop into Creative Grounds Café (opposite Dunnes) to complete the form. n
Senator Byrne welcomes €7m restoration in Gorey
Gorey is one of five urban centres set to benefit from funding totalling €32 million under the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme (THRIVE).
Welcoming the funding, Senator Byrne said: “I’m delighted that this funding will be used to regenerate Gorey Market House into a community and cultural hub. This cherished building is one of the oldest properties in Gorey Town and is associated with the foundation of the town. The existing building will be restored and there will be a new extension to give access to the upper floors and the creation of a new café to the rear. The three arches on Main Street will be opened up which will gives access to the rear of the building and create a new market plaza for Gorey which can be used for markets, concerts and events. It will also create a new gated entrance to the graveyard beyond the site which will provide access to a designated heritage trail.”
Senator Byrne praised the work of Wexford County Council and particularly Director of Services, Liz Hore, as well as the championing of this project by Cllr. Pip Breen.
“This is an exciting project which will breathe new life into this historic building. Once completed I have no doubt that it will be a hugely valuable asset for the town, one which can be enjoyed by people of all ages," he added. n
Eastside resurfacing
SOME INCONVENIENCE IS BEING EXPERIENCED ON THE EAST SIDE OF ENNISCORTHY AS ROAD RESURFACING WORKS TAKE PLACE IN THE VICINITY OF HENDRICK'S TYRE DEPOT IN TEMPLESHANNON, BUT THE EXPECTATION IS THAT THE RESULTS WILL BE WORTH IT.
Road closures will occur as required during the dates listed below, with traffic management (stop/go) in place at all other times.
Road Closure: R-744-2, Templeshannon, Enniscorthy (Railway Square junction to Mr. Price).
Dates: Monday 29/07/2024 to Friday 09/08/2024, inclusive.
Times: 07:30-18:00 daily.
Local access only will be facilitated during periods of road closures. Diversions will be in place & alternative routes will be signposted.
Dates: Monday 29/07/2024 to Friday 09/08/2024, inclusive.
Times: 07:30-18:00 daily.
Local access only will be facilitated during periods of road closures. Diversions will be in place & alternative routes will be signposted. n
Fine Gael chooses its candidates
Cllr Cathal Byrne and Cllr Bridin Murphy have been selected by Fine Gael to contest the next General Election for the Wexford Constituency in the absence of Paul Kehoe TD who has decided not to run for re-election.
The General Election must take place some time between now and next March. n
Malcolm faces a ‘difficult battle’
Gorey-based Senator Malcolm Byrne has been chosen to run for Fianna Fáil in the next General Election for the newly created constituency of Wicklow-Wexford, and he believes a ‘difficult battle’ lies ahead.
At the convention which took place in the Ashdown Park Hotel, Gorey, on 24th July, the party decided to nominate two candidates in the three-seat constituency, one from the Wicklow side and one from the Wexford side being Senator Malcolm Byrne.
Malcolm describes the two-candidate strategy as "risky" saying, "While I understand that it is necessary to maximise our votes in both Wicklow and Wexford, running two candidates risks splitting the vote and it could put me under serious pressure especially as I understand Fine Gael, Sinn Féin and others are only running one candidate, which will make it easier for them."
The Gorey-based Senator pointed out, "I am very grateful for the support of so many in trying to win a Dáil seat in the new constituency to date but this is going to be a difficult battle and every vote will be vital." n
James Browne will be Fianna Fáil’s sole candidate for Wexford constituency
Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has been selected as the Fianna Fáil candidate for the Wexford constituency in the General Election.The Fianna Fáil Convention to select a candidate for the Wexford constituency took place last month.
Speaking following the Convention at the Talbot Hotel, Wexford, Minister Browne commented: "I’m absolutely delighted to be selected as Fianna Fáil’s representative in the next General Election. It’s a huge honour. I am glad to get the mandate of my Party to contest the election. It gives me an opportunity to deliver further progress for County Wexford. Rosslare Europort is benefitting from significant funding to support its transformation. I’m glad to have worked towards securing this funding at a Government level. Looking back over the past four years, I’m glad that we are turning the corner in relation to the supply of homes to County Wexford families. I worked hard to guarantee the inclusion of a Wexford Campus within development plans for the new South East Technological University. I worked closely with the Minister for Health to secure upgrades to Wexford General Hospital too.
“Looking ahead to the General Election, I am determined to see the delivery of the new campus for the South East Technological University in Wexford town. We need to see further investment in Wexford General Hospital and County Wexford housing options. It’s vital to prioritise the delivery of the M11 motorway extension between Rosslare Europort and Oylegate. While there is a significant turnaround in house building, I want to see even further progress to address the housing crisis. These needs for our county inform my decision to stand in the next General Election. I want to be a strong voice at Government level. I want to ensure that County Wexford benefits from continued growth, development and investment. n
Fianna Fáil convention last month L-R: Retired TD and Minister Hugh Byrne, Senator Catherine Ardagh who chaired the meeting, Minister James Browne TD, retired TD and Minister John Browne.
Cllr Cathal Byrne
Cllr Bridin Murphy
A regular series by the team at Enniscorthy East Community Development
This month the group looks back over its first year in existence
As it’s just over a year now since Enniscorthy East Community Development was set up it’s probably a good time to take a look back at the year that was. We started this group as a response to a prolonged lack of investment in the Templeshannon area. For over 30 years Templeshannon has been badly neglected when it comes to investment in public amenities and services. Frustrated by this deterioration in supports, a group of residents decided to get together and do something about it. Over the past 12 months a lot has changed with people in the area starting to take back responsibility for their community. When good community people get together with a common purpose they can have a huge impact on their area.
Our motto has been… ‘Focus on what’s Strong, not what’s Wrong’
We started by applying for funding to upgrade the antiquated heating and electrical systems at the Templeshannon Community Centre. Our application was successful and the work is almost completed. We are already seeing huge benefits from this overhaul and more renovations are planned for the interior in the autumn of this year.
Following a period of lobbying, Safety Bollards were fitted on footpaths near the centre. This makes entering and exiting the building much safer for our pre-school children. Up to then, vehicles parking fully on the footpaths made the journey for our little treasures very hazardous. We have
requested an extension of these bollards down to the pedestrian crossing at the church. Our Childcare Centre based at the community centre continues to go from strength to strength and last year they launched a hugely successful ‘After Schools Service’ in conjunction with St. Senan’s Primary School.
Of course, it’s the people using the community centre that make it and this year we were able to launch two new groups. The first group was for the younger people and we set up a Foróige Youth Club. This has been very successful and just over a month ago the club won a
major Foróige Citizenship Award. Hot on the heels of this, the FDYS set up another club for younger teens at the community centre, and this club is expanding and also going from strength to strength. Our next group was for the not so young and this was the ‘Templars’ Community Singers. Members can testify to how enjoyable this group is and we are already looking forward to restarting the group in September after a summer break. Indeed, we hope to form a Male Voice Choir in September for a special project and we will be calling for all those interested in participating very soon.
Well done to Lilly and Mary Corrigan, John Murphy of the Enniscorthy Community Alliance, and Sarah Kelly and members of the local Foroige Youth Club, for all their excellent work to brighten up the area at Hillview Heights, Enniscorthy. They have completely revamped four large bollards with bedding plants and autumn trees to follow, transforming the neighbourhood for the better.
Next on the list were some long overdue clean-ups in the Gimont and Hillview Heights areas. With help from the newly formed Enniscorthy Inter Agency Group and of course from the local residents’ associations, we saw major clean-ups of back lanes etc in the areas, which had been the target for illegal dumping over a long period.
Buoyed up by this, residents at Hillview Heights gave the four large bollards a big makeover with summer bedding plants and they are a joy to behold right now. More recently our Community Development group took on a major overhaul of the Grotto at Fr. Cullen’s Tce. Work is still in hand at the Grotto but if you are passing by why not drop in and see all the new pots and planting. We would like to acknowledge the help of John Murphy from the Enniscorthy Community Alliance and of course our young and not so young volunteers for this.
Speaking about the new Community Alliance, Enniscorthy East Community Development have become active members of this new organisation. One of the big positives here is that the Community Alliance hope to establish a new ‘Community Hub’ in the Captain Wafer Hall very soon, thus returning the hall back to the community that built it. There will be more about this in our next edition.
There are plans afoot to develop a New Playground opposite the Wafer Hall in Springvalley. Some challenges exist because of the presence of Japanese Knotweed on some of the site. However we are actively engaged in identifying a new site close by as the budget has already been allocated to this project.
The proposed new site may share a border with Kelly’s Lane. The re-opening of this important pathway is a key focus of our Community Development group. With the assistance of the Inter Agency group we have held very positive talks regarding the future of this icon of the Shannon area. At the moment we are working on a proposal that would link the existing trails on Vinegar Hill to the Turret Rocks and use Kelly’s Lane as the main connecting route. Not stopping there, the new pathway can potentially link in to the pathways already laid in the new Technology Park.
Public Transport: Following sustained requests and lobbying, Templeshannon got its first ever public transport service through Local Link. This connects residents from Templeshannon across the town to the stores at Lidl/Aldi as well as the Community College in the Milehouse. We expect these services to grow and expand over the coming months and would encourage all our residents to familiarise themselves with the timetables and schedules.
An Garda Siochána: You may have noticed an increase in Garda activity in the area in recent times, particularly over weekends. This has had a positive effect on levels of anti-social behaviour, and we hope that it will continue to reduce this unwanted activity. With thanks to Sgt. Eddie Wilde, there has been very positive consultations held between the Gardaí and local residents and we look forward to the continuation of this.
Tea on the Green: Wexford County Council in association with Wexford Local Development are hosting a ‘Tea on the Green’ event in Gimont Avenue on Saturday September 7th for all local residents. This promises to be a super day out for all the family with lots of fun activities planned for everyone. There will be lots of further updates about this event over the coming weeks.
In September we hope to deliver a Community Newsletter to all homes in the Templeshannon area. This will include useful information about services relating to Public Transport and the Gardaí as well as information about forthcoming events in this area.
The Community Development Team: A massive ‘Thank You’ to all the team that work so hard to improve quality of life in the area. Should you wish to get involved in this community based effort, feel free to contact any member of the team: Mary Corrigan, Lilly Corrigan, Frank Corcoran, Eamonn Doyle, Sarah Kelly, Lynda Murphy, Bridget O’Brien, Julie Whelan, Nicky Murphy, Seamus Whitney or call 087-2930510.
Also a special word of thanks to our visiting agency members, Julie Grant, Ann Marie Laffan and John Murphy.
Keep up to date on Facebook by clicking on this link: https://www.facebook.com/EEastCommu nity
If you are interested in making Templeshannon a better place to live for all its residents, feel free to come along and get involved. Tel: 087-2930510.
We meet once per month in the Templeshannon Community Centre. n
The Grotto: Lilly and Mary Corrigan, and John Murphy of the Enniscorthy Community Alliance, were joined last month by Seamus Whitney, Bridget O’Brien, Billy Murphy, Lynda Murphy, Govinda Denby-Atkinson, and Frank Corcoran to undertake improvements there which are still ongoing.
Words & Pics
by Maria Nolan
French Ambassador Vincent Guerend (second from left) with Ms Melanie O’Reilly, French Honorary Consul in Wexford, third from left.
Adieu Ambassador –Bienvenue Honorary Consul
I was delighted to be invited to join the happy gathering of friends coming together at the Wexford Arts Centre to bid farewell to French Ambassador Vincent Guerend who will soon be taking his leave of us as his posting draws to an end, and to compliment and thank him for his outstanding contribution to Wexford / Normandy Cultural Association during his tenure.
The evening of celebration and farewell
organised by the Wexford Normandy Cultural Association (WNCA) was a huge success as guests mingled and chatted over French wine and canapes, the perfect inducement for conversation and interaction.
Maura Bell, President of the WNCA and MC of the event, was lavish in her praise for the Ambassador’s commitment and described him as a true friend of Wexford. She said the Association had organised a
number of events to showcase Wexford’s assets and connections with Normandy and paid tribute to the Ambassador’s interest in our shared heritage and his ability to connect and engage with people.
The Association made a presentation to the Ambassador of an art piece by Design Notions, Wexford, which depicted the connections and friendship between Wexford and Normandy.
Ambassador Guerend expressed his
thanks to the Association for the invitation and for facilitating the Honorary Consul ceremony. He described the Association as dynamic and progressive and appreciated how much the WNCA has done for strengthening Wexford Normandy relations.
He went on to say that in January 2023 he had announced the intention to appoint an Honorary Consul of France in South East Ireland based in Wexford and was delighted to officially name the delegate as Melanie O’Reilly, whom he said was unanimously chosen and is perfect for the role.
The Ambassador presented Melanie with the ‘Remis du Brevet’ (Award of the Brevet), the Certificate of Appointment signed by the Ambassador in “the name of the President of the French Republic”.
He said he was delighted to officially appoint Ms Melanie O’Reilly as French Honorary Consul in Wexford, the first ever!
He commented that the relations between the Southeast and France are strong and will be even stronger going
forward and concluded: “Vive la France! Vive l’Irlande et Vive l’amitié Franco – Irlandaise.”
In response, Melanie said, “It was a huge honour to have been chosen to be Honorary Consul of France in South East Ireland based in Wexford – to be a representative of the Embassy of France in Ireland is an extraordinary honour and I extend my sincere gratitude to the Ambassador.
“In my role as Honorary Consul it is my intention and my hope that I will bring all my skills and experience to bear on this important role to serve and support French citizens residing in, or visiting Wexford and the South East area, to serve as a representative of the Embassy of
France, to local authorities, local community groups and organisations and to work with them in order to promote cultural, business, economic, heritage, education, tourism and maritime links between France and the South East region,” she concluded.
Melanie is the 4th Honorary Consul in Ireland, and her appointment is a tribute to her and to the importance of the historical, economic and cultural links between France and the Southeast of Ireland and Wexford in particular.
Congratulations to Melanie and the WNCA under President Maura Bell and Chairman Leo Coy as we anticipate all they will bring to the County going forward and we say a sincere adieu to Ambassador Guerend and hope that he will remember his time in Wexford with fondness and affection.
For further information on WNCA contact Catherine MacPartlin, Wexford Normandy Cultural Association, telephone: 087-4189740. Email: wexnormculturalassoc@gmail.com n
Adam now on the second half of his Wild Atlantic Way
REGULAR READERS AND FOLLOWERS OF THE SLANEY NEWS WILL BE AWARE THAT ENNISCORTHY'S ADAM HADRYŚ IS RUNNING THE FULL LENGTH OF THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY OVER THE COURSE OF 2024 – A REMARKABLE 2,600KM JOURNEY.
Originally from Poland, Enniscorthy resident Adam Hadryś has lived in Ireland since 2007. He’s a long-distance runner and traveller around this beautiful country. Adam has decided to experience his own adventure on the Wild Atlantic Way by running its full 2,600km length during 2024.
The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest coastal tracks in the world. According to official measurements, the track spans 2,600km. It stretches across the West of Ireland, from the peninsula of Inishowen in the north to the dreamy town of Kinsale in the south. In between those two spots and along the track one finds a powerful ocean, cliffs surrounded by wilderness, as well as beautiful harbours and beaches.
Due to the immense length of the route, and in order to do it in a responsible manner, Adam is breaking it up into 14 stages. Every part will be an ultra-run which will require serious power and determination on his behalf. Health allowing, he aims to have it all finished by the end of 2024.
Adam tells us, “From my own research, it appears that only one person has completed a full run of the Wild Atlantic Way. This person is Tom Reynolds, an Irish ultra-runner who completed this over the course of 35 days in 2016. This was reported in the Irish Times. Since then, no one else has taken on the challenge of running the full length of this track solo. I might only be the second person to ever do this, definitely the first Polish person to achieve it if I am successful.”
The 14 stages of the run, the original planned dates for each, and the distances are as follows:
Muff-Letterkenny, 30.12.23 -180km. Letterkenny-Bunbeg 2.02.24 -163km. Bunbeg-Donegal Town 1.03.24 -170km.
Last month, Adam finished the 8th stage from Clifden to Galway and the 9th from Galway to Kilkee. He told us: “Stage 9 went great. On the way I passed the picturesque Kinvara, Burren and Doolin. I had the pleasure of being hosted by the Santiago family, who gave me support and a warm place for a moment of regeneration. When I passed the Cliffs of Moher it rained heavily and it rained all night long. I finished the run in Kilkee in the morning. 152km done and dusted.” Best of luck to Adam as he embarks on the remaining five stages of his epic run.
The Slaney News is keeping our readers updated on Adam's journey which is taking him through some of the most scenic places in Ireland and luckily Adam is taking plenty of great photos to share with us and our readers.
Keep up to date on https://www.facebook.com/adam.hadrys.2023 n
Adam Hadryś on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Enniscorthy Patron
Enniscorthy Municial District can claim credit for a numer of recent, visible improvements to the local environment and public realm...
Shopfront Painting & Flower Grant Scheme 2024
There was a fantastic response to the Council’s scheme this year with 29 applications for the Painting/Awning Grant Scheme and 26 applications for the Flower Grant Scheme up to mid-July. The total cost of the scheme for this year will be approximately €11,500. The scheme was introduced to improve the attractiveness of the town and make it a better to place to live, work and invest.
Enniscorthy Planting Programme
PATRON:
The roundabouts have been planted including Blackstoops, Aldi/Lidl, and near Abbey Square. Planters have also been filled and planted in various locations around the town including Island Road, Abbey Square and at the Railway Station. Boxes have been placed on the municipal building and on railings in Abbey Square.
The Still Pond, Enniscorthy
Significant improvement works have been carried out by the Council at The Still Pond. The island was cut back and cleared of dead trees and invasive plants. Some of the trees taken out were replaced with new ones. The town engineer has also met with both the environment section of WCC and some of the residents regarding future works in maintaining the pond.
Enniscorthy Walking Trails
Works have been completed on the 600m extension to the Slaney River trail bypassing the Urrin Footbridge thereby improving access to persons in wheelchairs, mobility scooters, etc. Users can enter the loop before the footbridge at the end of the Prom and walk on a new path up to Munster Hill, across St. John’s Bridge, enter the Davis Mills site and walk down by the side of the Urrin and rejoin the main Slaney River trail by walking under the railway bridge. This loop extension follows on from the widening and resurfacing work all along the length of the Slaney River walk. n
Killegney Graduation Improvements to the local environment
Sunday 11th August at 3pm: Patron in St. Mary’s /Enniscorthy Cemeteries.
Liam Murphy, one of the Killegney Early Years Graduation Class of 2024, with his family. See lots more photos on pages 48-50.
Free reading books for children starting school this September
All children starting school this September are invited to visit their library, pick up a My Little Library Book Bag, in Irish or English, and join the library if they are not already members. Book bags are available at the library throughout the summer. All families are welcome to join the library too, if they aren’t already members.
Wexford has five branch libraries located in the towns of Bunclody, Enniscorthy, Gorey, New Ross and Wexford.
Minister Roderic O’Gorman and Minister Heather Humphreys launched My Little Library Book Bag 2024, in June, which provides every child starting school with free books and invites them to join their local library.
Cllr. Pip Breen, An Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, says, “The My Little Library Bag initiative is a wonderful programme offered to all children in Co Wexford starting primary school. Children get to collect a free book, and a library card wallet to keep, from their local library, Bunclody, Enniscorthy, Gorey, New Ross or Wexford Town. The children can join their library along with their families, and choose their own books to borrow, all for free, this will be the start of a lifelong love of reading for the children of Co. Wexford.”
The focus of the My Little Library is to build strong links between young children, their families and their local library. For the past two years, children leaving the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) pre-school programme and starting primary school were invited to visit their local library to pick up a My Little Library book bag and take the opportunity to join the library.
This has resulted in tens of thousands of children collecting their book bags and joining their local library. In addition to My Little Library, younger children and their families were also invited to their local library pick up a bedtime story book to keep and join the library under the Little Book at Bedtime initiative. For more information and to collect your Little Library Book Bag do please call to your local library or contact Wexford County Council Library Service by phone at 053-9196561 or by email at libraryheadquarters@wexfordcoco.ie
L-R: Sinead Carey ( Library Assistant), Hazel Percival (Senior Executive Librarian), Jan Doran (Senior Library Assistant). n
Funding increase for Women’s Refuge
Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD has confirmed significant funding increases for Wexford Women’s Refuge.
“The work of Wexford Women’s Refuge is very important. Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence creates trauma, which requires specialist help. As Minister of State at the Department of Justice, I’m glad to support the Wexford Women's Refuge expansion of facilities.
“Wexford Women's Refuge and Wex-
ford County Council developed plans for the new refuge. Following their work, I collaborated with colleagues to source Government funding. In Novemeber 2022, Government colleagues and I approved development funding worth €6.4 million. Last March, I confirmed €560,897.31 to Wexford Women’s Refuge to fund more staff and operating costs. The staff roles include: project leader; finance role; childcare role; support worker; play therapist; team leader; household staff; relief staff.
“Core funding in 2024 has increased to €1,591,364 to support the expansion of the refuge. The funding allocation includes operational costs (€260,290) and staffing (€1,331,074). Once-off fit-out costs to help with the development of the refuge comes to €310,872.
Minister Browne concluded by saying, "As a Minister of State, I'm glad that government funding has made a real difference on the ground for Wexford Women's Refuge.” n
Sustainable Enniscorthy
A monthly column
A member of the local Sustainable Enniscorthy group looks at Environmental Justice
Centre for Environmental Justice
If you would like to get involved in Sustainable Enniscorthy or be kept informed of our initiatives, please follow us on Facebook or Instagram. sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com www.sustainableenniscorthy.com
Contact us to get involved!
In 2021 Community Law and Mediation set up the Centre for Environmental Justice with the stated objective to ‘empower communities experiencing disadvantage on environmental justice issues, and to advance legislative and policy change through strategic casework and law reform submissions’. In the intervening years the Centre has developed a range of resources for communities and individuals alike through their free environmental legal advice clinics, talks, training and online resources. Their monthly newsletter is a must for anyone interested in environmental and social issues.
‘Environmental justice’ is the intersection of social justice, in other words the protection of both people and the planet. Environmental justice seeks to protect the most vulnerable people in society from the impacts of climate change and other environmental harms and to ensure the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people in the development, implementation and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations and policies.
Communities that can be most impacted include low-income households, people from migrant or ethnic backgrounds and those who are vulnerable to the health impacts of environmental harms including children, people with disabilities and older people. (See accompanying graphics from https://communitylawandmediation.ie/centre-for-environmental-justice/environmental-justice/).
To support its work, the Centre for Environmental Justice has developed a Manual for Environmental Justice – a digital toolkit freely available to organisations, communities and activists as well as an excellent resource for schools, students and teachers alike. The manual is an all-island digital toolkit, a one-stop resource that provides access to environmental justice materials, connections to local grassroots groups and expert contacts. It features podcasts, articles and guides on topics like air quality, nature rights and relevant law such as the Aarhus Convention.
To access the Manual for Environmental Justice click here: https://envjusticemanual.com/
A reminder that the Government’s Climate Conversations 2024 online questionnaire is now open for all to share their views on climate change, food waste, home heating, sustainable living, the local environment and the future of climate action in Ireland.
https://research3.ipsosinteractive.com/mrIWeb/mrIWeb.dll ?I.Project=IE2400923502WE_PUBLIC n
Wexford Bus announced as official travel partner for Fleadh Cheoil
Wexford Bus is the Official Travel Partner of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024. In celebration of the partnership, Wexford Bus has announced that it will be operating the Wexford Bus Connect Town Services (Route WX1 and WX2) free of charge for the duration of the Fleadh. In addition, the Wexford Bus timetables will be extended to include extra nighttime services to facilitate visitors attending the Fleadh.
Brendan Crowley, Managing Director of Wexford Bus, commented: “As a Wexford company we are very proud to welcome Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann to Wexford. We are excited to announce this partnership and really look forward to bringing visitors to our beautiful town and county for this incredible event. We are delighted that the Fleadh is committed to encouraging visitors to use public transport to travel to and within Wexford. In support of this, our services within Wexford town namely Route WX1 & WX2 will be free of charge for the duration of the Fleadh.”
During the Fleadh, there will be several road closures in place that will impact Wexford Bus and other public transport services. The longer distance services including Route 740 & 740X: Wexford to Dublin City and Airport, Route 340: Wexford to Waterford and Route 376: Wexford to Carlow will serve all regular stops on the routes.
Wexford Bus will be adjusting several local bus routes as the Quay and Wexford Bridge will be closed to vehicles, including public transport from 10am daily. Information will be regularly updated on www.wexfordbus.com
“This partnership is very timely for Wexford Bus, we have launched two new routes this year including the 740X direct service between Wexford and Dublin City & Airport and the new 884 Route between Wexford and Gorey which travels on the R741 via Ballycanew and Oulart. We are delighted to be able to support this event and give something back to the people of Wexford who have been loyal supporters of Wexford Bus since we started,” continued Brendan.
Eddie Taaffe, CEO of Wexford County Council, commented: “Wexford Bus operates the most extensive network of bus services within the county so having Wexford Bus on board as the Official Travel Partner of Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann 2024 is a natural fit. We are delighted that Wexford Bus is offering free travel to all passengers on the Wexford Bus Local Town Services (Route WX1 and WX2) for the duration of the Fleadh as it will enable more people to visit the town and leave their cars at home. This is another example of the warm Wexford welcome that is being extended to visitors
and I would like to thank Wexford Bus for their generous contribution.”
Where possible, Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann encourages visitors to travel to Wexford by public transport and consider walking, cycling and using the local buses while in the town. Travel emissions contribute to the Fleadh’s carbon footprint, so if travelling by public transport is not an option, visitors are asked to car share.
For more information please visit www.wexfordbus.com and www.fleadhcheoil.ie
Wexford Bus is a growing private bus company operating regular scheduled bus services between Wexford and Dublin City & Airport, Wicklow and Dublin City & Airport, as well as services connecting Wexford with Waterford, Carlow, Maynooth and towns around Co Wexford.
Wexford Bus operates in excess of 1,000 services per week, carried in excess of 1.2 million passengers last year, has a team of over 120 people and a fleet of over 60 buses and coaches.
See www.wexfordbus.com for details on routes and fares. n
Brendan Crowley, Managing Director of Wexford Bus and Eddie Taaffe, CEO of Wexford County Council.
WILL B.R.I.C.S. TEAR DOWN THE WALLS OF THE WORLD ORDER?
Since time immemorial we have had many so-called world orders governing the masses. One can quote the Roman Empire and the Ottoman Empire and even in biblical times you had the Egyptians, the Chinese Empire, and Hannibal the Barbarian.
In more modern times we have seen a clear divide between the communist regimes and capitalist countries. Our parents and grandparents lived through world wars and the cold war era. We have seen a warming of relations between the major players over the last few decades with conflicts played out by proxy. In the last number of years we have experienced a hardening of ideology from certain quarters which may need closer attention. With the constant threats of cyber-attacks and two wars flaring, we are living in stressful times.
All this should focus our attention to a block of nations set up to foster a creditable alternative to the workings of the world. They are known as B.R.I.C.S. The origins of this grouping were spawned at a breakaway meeting of the U.N. assembly in 2006. They discussed closer cooperation and an alternative to the world structures. Brazil, Russia, India, China, were the first countries to join and South Africa joined in 2009. Since then other nations have joined such as Iran, Egypt and Ethiopia. Argentina did agree to join but the new prime minister declined. Crucially important allies to America, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, are also in the frame. The direction that they have taken has begun to change the world
TOWN TALK
WITH KEITH DOYLE
order and may influence our lives more than we can imagine. Money is the root of all evil and I will try to explain how this is being used to influence and change our lives that we know.
In 2014 $100 billion was pooled to support members with $32 billion already loaned to emerging nations. This is also a direct alternative to the IMF. The practice has paid dividends already. We
have seen member states either abstaining or voting against any issues that may affect the interests of Russia or China. The old saying, ‘Don’t bite the hand that feeds you,’ comes to mind. The groups have a bigger agenda that is most concerning and can impact all our lives in a negative way. B.R.I.C.S. wants to introduce an alternative to the global reserve currency. At present a country or company deals in dollars to purchase or trade worldwide. The suggestion that this group would use either crypto currency or more likely the Chinese yen would be a major game-changer. This would weaken the dollar and the knock-on would be felt on the stock markets wiping out values on all the exchanges. This in turn would weaken all aspects of the economic world including pensions and bonds and in turn would result in long-term inflation.
All this is already in the public domain so why am I putting a focus on this agenda now? Russia is taking over the presidency in October and I am sure they will push to implement all policies to weaken the economy and political resolve of the West. With Orban, the pro-Russian Hungarian prime minister at the helm in Europe, there is plenty of room for shenanigans. Iran will be the country to support Russia at the B.R.I.C.S. meetings for the same reason. China won’t object even though their agenda is to gain political and economic influence in the African nations. Some sobering stats to bolster my concerns are that B.R.I.C.S. has 45% of the world’s population with 3.5 billion people. They have a combined wealth of $28.5 trillion which is 28% of the global economy. With Iran, Saudi Arabia and U.A.E. they will have 44% of the world’s crude oil. Putin is only getting started at messing with the West. n
Rome 2 Home 2024
A ten-strong group of cyclists are planning a gruelling 1,900 km cycle marathon from Rome, Italy, to Enniscorthy in September to help raise funds for Enniscorthy’s Hope Centre and the Little Blue Heroes Foundation. Previously the same group held events in 2017 where they cycled from Malin Head to Hook Head and raised a staggering €17,500, and in 2022 they cycled from Lourdes in the south of France to Enniscorthy and raised almost €36,000. The hope is that this year’s cycle will raise an even greater sum for these two very worthy causes.
The cycling party consists mainly of Gardai from stations across the South East and are joined by two civilian colleagues, with Inspector Colum Matthews responsible for all logistical arrangements.
In what is being promoted as Rome to Home 2024, all ten participants are meeting their own expenses, including accommodation and air fares, with all funds raised going directly to The Hope Centre and Little Blue Heroes.
The participants, who are presently in strict training for the cycle marathon, are Garda Inspector Colum Matthews and his brother Paul recently retired from the Garda Air Support Unit, Superintendent David O’Sullivan, Enniscorthy Garda Station, Garda Pat
Frayne, Wexford, Garda James Murphy, Enniscorthy, Sergeant PJ Griffin, Thomastown, Sergeant Stephen Ennis, Wexford, Garda Aidrian Delaney, Borris, Peter Leacy, recently retired from Wexford Garda station, Bernard Mullen, Kilkenny, and Jack Butler, bespoke furniture maker, Kilmuckridge.
An advance and support party will set out overland for Rome on September 2nd, bringing with them the racing cycles and all other necessary equipment required for the 1,900 kilometre cycle which is expected to take 14 days. The riders will set off from Rome four days later, September 6th. They will spend five days travelling through Italy before two gruelling days crossing the Alps which includes climbing the infamous Alpe d’Huez which features regularly in Tour de France. The cyclists will then spend the final seven days cycling through France before arriving in Cherboug for the ferry to Rosslare. The group expect to arrive back in Enniscorthy on September 20th, where arrangements are already in train for a huge ‘welcome home’ reception.
A series of fundraising events are being planned to co-incide with the marathon cycle, the first of which is an on-the-spot cycle in Wexford Town on 3rd August and then in Enniscorthy on 10th August. Participants will be ‘in the saddle’ from 10am until 6pm in both towns on those dates. A gen-
erous response from the public is anticipated. It is hoped to arrange dates for Gorey and New Ross also.
A ‘Rome to Home’ Facebook page has been established and persons wishing to contribute can do so by following the link www.idonate.ie/Rome2Home where financial support can be pledged. Participating cyclists are also planning a series of table quizzes, pub sessions and raffles. All such fundraising activities will be in advance of the main event in September in order to allow the general public every opportunity of contributing to this worthy cause.
Announcing details of the cycle marathon, Colum Matthews said the beneficiaries of the fundraising cycle marathon are both very worthy causes that provide vital services to people in our community. Both organisations are working tirelessly for the communities in which they serve and with ever increasing demands on their limited resources, this cycling marathon is designed to show the appreciation of the general public for what they are doing.
The cyclists recently met with Mia Griffin who is representing Ireland in cycling in the Olympic Games in Paris. She kindly spoke to the group and gave advice on training and nutrition before posing for a photo.
The group are very appreciative to Surehaul Commercials, Clonmel, for supplying a van for the event and the St Raphael’s Garda Credit Union for their sponsorship of the event.
Inspector Matthews, whose late father Garda Sergeant Noel Matthews helped found the Hope Centre in Enniscorthy, is confident of a positive response to the cyclists appeal for support. “The people of Co. Wexford and beyond have always responded generously when asked for support and I have no doubt they will not be found wanting on this occasion either,” he said before setting off with his colleagues on another training session.
Further information on the upcoming event and for information on how to contribute or how to help with fundraising, please contact the group on their Facebook page ‘Rome2Home’ or at rome2home.24 on Instagram n
LOCAL GARDAÍ TO UNDERTAKE A 1,900KM CYCLE FOR CHARITY... Participants pictured with Mia Griffin, Irish Olympic cyclist.
Ukrainians in Wexford deplore Russian attack on Kyiv Children’s Hospital
UKRAINIANS IN CO. WEXFORD HELD A HEARTFELT RALLY IN WEXFORD TOWN ON 14TH JULY 2024 TO PROTEST AGAINST THE RECENT HORRIFIC ATTACK ON KYIV CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL. THE RALLY WAS ADDRESSED BY MAYOR OF WEXFORD CLLR GEORGE LAWLOR AND BRENDAN HOWLIN TD.
Pics by: Serhii Lukianenko
Funding for integration projects
Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has confirmed funding for five County Wexford community integration projects.
The Minister said, “The Government will fund five projects. FDYS, Enniscorthy Fáilte, a Brazilian Community Group, Women’s Collective Ireland (WCI) Wexford, and Wexford Town Friends of Ukraine will all receive small grants towards projects.
“The grants support a range of initiatives. One project encourages the devel-
opment of language skills. Another few projects celebrate cultural diversity and inclusion across our County. These grants commend community organisations for their great work at a grassroots level. My government colleagues and I are thrilled to support such positive efforts on the ground.”
Brazilian community group Junina Festival Enniscorthy €2,000.
Enniscorthy Fáilte
Language, integration and social activ-
ities for migrants living in Enniscorthy. €5,000.
Ferns Diocesan Youth Service From My Kitchen To Yours €1,760.
WCI Wexford Weaving in our Ancestors €3,380.
Wexford Town Friends of Ukraine Capacity Building for the Integration of Refugees €5,000. n
“I had a great time in my li fe
Professor Sheila Willis is former director of the State Forensic Science Laboratory, former director-general of Forensic Science Ireland, and holder of honorary doctorate from Université de Lausanne, Switzerland.
The name Sheila Willis rings a loud bell with Gardaí, judges, barristers and solicitors around Ireland and with lawyers around the world. They pay attention when they hear of her. They all knew of her as Ireland’s Department of Justice expert in tracing clues and fragments to be used in evidence for crimes of the most serious kind, including bombings, bank robberies, murders and rapes.
Some regarded her as Ireland’s answer to the head of CSI, the crime scene television series. She is the former director of the State Forensic Science Laboratory in Ireland and she is former director general of Forensic Science Ireland.
“Most people call me Sheila,” she said when she addressed the group (double the usual number) of almost 60 sciencecurious with moderator Professor Cliona O’Farrelly at the Wexford Science Café in Wexford Town Library. Brian Trench, the convenor, was away. The talk was appropriately themed, ‘My Life in Crime’.
There are no airs or graces about Sheila Willis. She is straight-forward, modest and popular and much the same as she was when growing up around the corner from the library in Rowe Street, Wexford. A male contemporary of hers from the ‘70s said that when she was going to school, she was ‘a bright spark’.
Today, she is Professor Sheila Willis, one of the world’s leading forensic scientists.
Members of the audience at the Wexford Science Café wished she could have told them the ‘real’ stories behind the Harry Gleeson case, the Kerry Babies case, The Sallins (Hazelhatch) Train Robbery, the Dublin-Monaghan bombings, for which she was a State expert, the Sophie Toscan du Plantier case, the Stardust case, the murders of Gardaí, and the most notorious criminals, including drug barons on the local and international scene. Some wished she could also have given her opinion on various miscarriages of justice.
However, she either wouldn’t or couldn’t talk about them, probably because of her obligation to keep State secrets and because of professional ethics and safety constraints.
She is mentioned among Gardaí in the same breath as support to the then State pathologist Professor John (Jack) Harbison with whom she worked, and Dr Marie Cassidy, who was also a State pathologist. Among Professor Sheila’s colleagues was Dr James Donovan, state forensic scientist, who was the victim of a bomb placed by a well-known Dublin criminal under the bonnet of his car, leaving him injured for life.
In more recent times, she has been adviser to justice systems we’ll never know about in other countries. Scotland Yard and the Australian justice system are among them.
“It all started with Sister Mary in the Presentation Secondary School in Wexford town. The nuns back then were simply amazing. There were only a couple of teachers, but they had multiple classes. Sister Mary taught me chemistry, biology and physiology. She thought that chemistry was important but she was an English teacher and that was her forte. She was one of my heroes forever.
In UCD, I studied chemistry, physics, maths and biology. I didn’t know what was to be. I just loved the life.
“My father was an electrician. He was
really keen on science. He had won prizes for top maths in school. He (himself) wanted to go to university. He encouraged me. My mother’s expectation was that I would become a teacher and come home.
“Lifelong- learning has been my stimulation and motivation throughout my life. Anything I’ve ever done and in spite of myself, I was learning. But I was also having a great time.”
Sheila Willis told the audience of her doubts about getting a job in 1977 which was shortly after the marriage bar, a time there was little possibility of married women getting jobs.
She was forthright in answers to questions about forensic matters.
“I was the only woman doing it at the time but in the research lab that I worked in, there were three women.
“Every paper mill had a chemist. I applied for a job called chief chemist with Clondalkin Paper Mills. The technical director Peter Sherry began to realise there was an issue about pollution in the Dodder. I went from being in the centre of an academic environment to being on my own.
When I started, we were looking at any kind of fibre, glass, paint, soil and a wide range of materials. The improvements in technologies were instruments that enabled you to look at smaller and smaller samples. You
Professor Sheila Willis with on left Dr Matt Seaver and on right Professor Cliona O'Farrelly, outside Wexford Library.
in crime”
had 13-millimeter disks that went down to smaller disks that went to micro disks. Eventually, you were able to get an infrared from a smear on a grain. However, there was too much emphasis on tiny traces and not enough emphasis on what does this mean. If you find a tiny trace, does it mean anything or even has it anything to do with the question. It continues to this day.
Professor Cliona O’Flaherty, moderator, steered her into giving her opinions on different aspects of forensic science.
On DNA: “When it was realised that DNA could be used to associate samples with an individual, the world changed. Up to then we were dealing with markers. Scientists were excited to get down to four per cent of the population.
There are pluses and minuses. There’s been amazing results and crimes solved as a result of DNA that never would have been if we didn’t have DNA, but it’s suffocated every other aspect. We’ve got to a stage of almost believing that if only we could get a DNA trace, that’s all we need. I think that’s not forensic science- the results don’t speak for themselves, even in DNA.
Nowadays there are big laboratories where people work in a factory-like way where you’ve got to get return on investment. That worries me. Everyone’s DNA is different, except for identical twins, but the profiling that is done for crime doesn’t look at the whole genome, so you’re looking at different factors.
On traces: “Talking about traces, if you have a blood sample, you can use it as biometric marker and say this is a blood sample of so and so but if you’re looking at a trace that may have been left on a glass I was drinking from, you’re less sure about the quality of the sample.
On crime scenes: “A lot of the problems in scenes of crimes are preservation of evidence. You can do the scene and say you’re going to take a few dabs and look at the DNA or something. Or, you can investigate the scene and try to get every piece of information you possibly can from it. The trouble is it’s very time consuming. If you want to get the best, you’ve got to get it from the scene in the first place.
If you have something like a sexual assault and the victim claims that it was in a laneway and the suspect says it was in a bed, well DNA is not going to sort it out, but a fibre examination would. There’s a worry that we’ll lose the ability to do a fibre examination.
On drugs: “An area that has exploded from the mid-eighties to now are drugs. They are just off the scale. In the early days, it was either cannabis, heroin or cocaine. Now, there’s a very wide range of psychoactive substances and new psychoactive drugs. They apparently come from China. It’s very difficult to keep up with, it’s big in terms of throughput, it’s big in terms of storage, but we should really be trying to get as much information as possible as to where it came from and the sources.
On soils: I remember a rapist had soil underneath his trousers. But it’s not exactly the same soil that you take because some of the fragments have been lost and some of the parcel sizes are different. So, it’ll be a remnant and be quite similar to a sample, but it won’t be identical.
Soil is not very common as an evidence type. One of the problems is that people don’t think about it. Unless you get it at the scene in the first place you’re not going anywhere.
In an unknown situation, you’d be able to trace it to what part of the country it is. But it wouldn’t be exclusive to soil. You analyse all the different types of concrete.
On fires: I visited many scenes and did literally hundreds of fire debris samples. The scene is the absolutely critical part. But I don’t know what training there is in actual scene examination specifically for fires.
On division of roles: “Separate roles given to people is not the answer –there’s a very strong view that the science laboratory should be completely separated from anything to do with the scene. I disagree with that approach. Bias is a real issue and everybody is biased.
On communication : “Put tonnes of samples into a system and let the results speak for themselves – that’s not forensic science. It’s difficult to pick out a piece unless you have fantastic communication between the people doing it and the people who are raising the questions.
I think people think about functionality, they don’t think about purpose.
I think ethical training should be part of the course. We need more of the philosophy of science at the training stage.
On publications: “One of the problems for forensic scientists at the moment, is keeping up to date with the literature. It takes a while to realise that a huge amount of literature is not reliable. It’s fraudulent. Ninety- nine per cent of it is a load of rubbish. So that isn’t a citation. Reliable journalism is so critical for democracy.
On State or Private enterprise: “In a commercial environment, it (forensic analysis) tends to be driven more by price and I don’t think you necessarily guarantee that you get the right thing. That said, there’s been huge investment and innovation has been a result of the commercial model.”
Professor Sheila Willis had many more opinions during her hour and a half talk that the lay person, students and academics would have found to be not alone hugely interesting but also useful in the development of forensic science. Professor Cliona O’Farrelly said she should write a book on it. The audience agreed. – M.F.
Section of Wexford Science Cafe audience for talk by Prof. Sheila Willis
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
SLANEY SEARCH & RESCUE
Annual General Meeting
Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, Thursday 12th September, 7.30pm. All welcome.
Hope Cancer Support Centre CLG
Pilot opening hours for one Saturday a month: 15th June – 13th July – 17th Aug
Phone Reception for more information 053-9238555 or email info@hopesupportcentre.ie
ENNISCORTHY TIDY TOWNS NEEDS YOU!
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers meet on Sunday mornings to collect litter and tidy up around the town. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed! So if you are sick of seeing rubbish on your road, street, estate or elsewhere in the community, please contact: 053 923 6518 or email enniscorthytt@gmail.com
Keep up to date on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown
Let's all help to make Enniscorthy cleaner and greener! n
US Presidential Election
The Presidential election in the United States and its outcome will affect the entire globe, including Ireland. Two candidates vie for a position which has enormous economic and military power. The exercise of those powers is a huge responsibility and it is essential that the holder of the Office realises this. Donald Trump was the unlikely winner of the election in 2016 and in his four years in the White House followed a policy of economic and military isolation which appealed to a huge section of the American people. Who can blame any American who believes that jobs should be kept at home, that taxes should be paid to the US rather than to countries like Ireland, and that most importantly their children who are in the military should not be sent to faraway places which most of them never heard of to die in the sand of a desert or a backstreet of a slum city somewhere.
Those who condemn Trump at every turn, and his personal character and public pronouncements indeed encourage such condemnation from decent people, should try to place themselves in the shoes of 50% or maybe more of Americans come election day in November. What’s more important to those voters. Trump’s personal character or what they consider best for their country. And it is their country, not ours or the country of many of the sanctimonious European critics which we see on our screens each day.
His opponent Vice President Kamala Harris may turn out to be much more formidable than Trump originally thought. She’s like a breath of fresh air into the campaign after the disaster that was President Biden. Over the past three and a half years the Bidens didn’t allow her to fulfil her potential. The Administration sat on her, mostly because Jill Biden didn’t want any alternative to her husband who obviously had a deteriorating mental capacity as time went on. In some ways this is now playing into the hands of the Harris campaign because she is not too closely associated with the disasters of Afghanistan and some of the Biden policies which did nothing for the rust belt and indeed which added further depression to those areas. She comes across as almost new but has something vital which is name
View from the Centre
A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond
recognition. She also presents fairly well and, so far, to the time of writing at least, hasn’t committed any major gaffes. She’ll be a major challenge to Trump’s ambition to reclaim the White House. He and his team know that it is now or never because in a further four years his day will have well passed. Many Americans will see Harris as too left wing and will not vote for her under any circumstances. The US, unlike Europe, is generally very conservative and regardless of who the opponent is will either stay at home or swallow hard and vote for Trump rather than see what they consider to be a half communist as President.
For the rest of the world, and Ireland in particular, a Harris victory would be more advantageous. There is the commitment to continue with the current economic policies which will be reasonably favourable to the continuation of American industrial investment in Ireland and on a broader canvas the commitment to continue to support NATO in relation to the defence of Europe. This has to be welcomed by any person of normal intelligence because anyone who thinks that NATO can survive without the US and that Europe can remain free of Russian aggression without NATO needs to have a sanity assessment.
Overall, there will be exciting times ahead with many different views expressed. Unfortunately, knowing Trump as we do, we cannot hope for a campaign based on policies. He will stoop to the lowest level possible and try and destroy Harris personally rather than her politics. The American people have a choice here and in ways I don’t envy them.
Ireland’s Neutrality
Ireland’s neutrality has been much debated for decades. Currently there seems to be some flexibility entering the discussion particularly with regard to the defence of Europe. In the previous article I mentioned the reluctance of some in America to continue participation in NATO and the dangers that this will create. Therefore, in my opinion, we need to get real in this country. We cannot continue to depend, like beggars, on others such as the British to defend us. We must make our own efforts. Therefore, let us consider joining either NATO or some other European Defence Army.
I hear the argument from those who talk about disarmament. Quite honestly that is utter nonsense. We will never see a situation where we will have a world without arms. Going back to the stone age, tribes armed themselves with stone axes and other implements to defend their territories. This is part of the world we have lived in for millions of years. The reality is that the strongest survive and no amount of talk or deep thought will change that. While we will never be the strongest, we should endeavour not to be the weakest either and get a little backbone and pride in ourselves and look at this matter seriously and begin to take decisions that will at least give us a fighting chance going into the future. n
“Vice President Kamala Harris may turn out to be much more formidable than Trump originally thought.”
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Million euro upgrade plans to transform Rosslare Strand will begin in a year
The centre of Rosslare Strand village will ‘soon’ be transformed according to new plans revealed and explained by Wexford County Council officials and their consultants SWEKO at the Rosslare Community and Recreation Centre.
Traffic problems that have threatened the lives of motorists and pedestrians in the Strand will be no more in a few years, it’ll be easier to park your car and pedestrians and wheelchair users will be enabled to
negotiate the streets to and from the beach with less stress.
The challenges of the hump-back bridge at Rosslare Strand Station on Station Road, traversed every day by death-defying residents, visitors and suppliers will be sorted too with new traffic-calming measures, traffic lights and warnings that are expected to thwart reckless drivers.
Problems during visitor months
The unsightly traffic bollards in place to
prohibit double-parking by desperate customers and suppliers seeking access to the doctor’s, the Rosslare pharmacy, the shop, Sharkey’s the chipper, Izmoo, Sinnotts on the Strand restaurant and cafes in the village will be gone too. The problems are particularly acute during the peak visitor (summer) months of June, July and August.
The street and footpaths and the railway bridge will be upgraded. There will be
Residents Michael Dempsey with Stephen Ainsworth and his son Oliver.
Listening attentively as consultant John from SWEKO outlines the plans.
Rosslare Strand to be upgraded.
traffic lights at the hump-back railway bridge on Station Road and there will be flashing warning lights at the junction at the village.
The car park adjoining the beach will be upgraded too to allow another exit and spaces for six or seven more cars which may accommodate hard-pressed workers in the village who often can’t find a space there. However, the size of car spaces will be kept to standard in spite of the increased size of big and bigger cars that sometimes straddle as many as four car spaces and crowd-out smaller cars fighting for one space.
Previous plans are ‘only thoughts’
The flow of traffic will remain two-way to and from the village. However, the current two-way traffic system from the village centre past Kelly’s Family Resort Hotel to the junction with the Grange Road, will become one-way.
Access to the hotel from the ‘Campus Oil’ roundabout can be down Mauritius Road, by the Bay pub and along the Coast Road by the Garda Station. Otherwise, go down the Station Road, over the humpy back railway bridge into the village and turn left. Exit from the front of Kelly’s Resort and Hotel to Killinick, Wexford and Dublin and elsewhere will be to the right and up Grange Road and past Boggans Londis convenience store to the ‘Campus Oil’ roundabout.
Compared to this plan, all previous plans were ‘only thoughts’ said a Council official.
The new plans revealed on big maps on the walls of the Community Centre and a
barely discernable screen were broadly welcomed by local residents who were given assurances by the news that the new county council chief executive Eddie Taaffe is taking a deep personal interest in Rosslare Strand.
Will be started in a year and will cost a million
Among the attendance were Cllr Jim Codd, cathaoirleach of Rosslare Municipal District, Cllr Ger Carthy and Cllr Lisa McDonald and Wexford County Council engineer, Michael Brazzill, who has himself worked for many years on the preparation of the plans.
He said that the work on the plans will be started in a year, he didn’t foresee any delays and it will cost about a million euro.
Meanwhile, until it is completed, residents and visitors and suppliers will have to continue for two years or more to endure their daily challenges. One resident said that to get to the village centre, he must re-cross the often traffic congested road eleven times.
The challenges for residents and for visitors include increased traffic congestion, double parking, people risking their lives to get to shops, parents bringing themselves and their children to schools and to the doctor, battling the obstacles of poor infrastructure, broken footpaths or none, over-grown hedges, low water pressure and sewerage and other issues that have worsened over many years.
– M.F.
Map of Rosslare Strand upgrade
Examining a map of the proposed upgrade. Well known local resident at the 'lethal' humpy back bridge on Station Road.
Killegney Early Years Graduation
27th June 2024
Left: Killegney Early Years Graduation Class 2024 at the balloon launch.
Proprietor Orlagh Doyle.
Killegney Early Years Graduation Class 2024 perform their farewell song.
Below: Finn Cahill.
Killegney Early Years Graduation Class 2024 perform their farewell song.
Killegney Early Years Graduation Class 2024 perform their farewell song.
Left: Anna Kehoe.
Right: River Morgan.
Bottom right: Balloon launch at Killegney Early Years Graduation, 27th June 2024.
Above
Above
Below left: Aoife Frayne.
Below centre: Daithi O’Connell.
Below right: Aine Hennessey.
Top left: Proprietor Orlagh Doyle gives a speech at the Killegney Early Years Graduation 2024.
left: Balloons are launched.
right: Emily Rose Flood and family.
Left: Alex McDonald.
Right: Aaron Stafford.
Above: Two of the children performing their farewell song.
Above: Ollie Johnston Below: Leanne Murphy
Above: Fiadh Moroney. Below: Finn Cahill.
Above: Mathew Rosinson. Below: Proprietor Orlagh Doyle ready to cut the cake.
Call for Expressions of Interest for the Supply of Social Housing and Development Land
Wexford County Council has an ambitious 5 year capital programme under the Housing For All Action Plan. As part of a range of housing solutions, the housing authority is seeking expressions of interest from private developers, building contractors and landowners.
Wexford County Council is seeking expressions of interest from interested parties who are capable of delivering turnkey units within the County or the provision of development land.
Wexford County Council will consider land or units in areas which have an established need. An explanatory document will outline the areas of need across the County.
In particular, Wexford County Council is seeking: -
• Turnkey developments. Acquisitions are on a turnkey basis; potential payment is a fixed price lump sum, on completion of a development, within an agreed timeframe.
• Mixed development schemes where social residential components could be incorporated.
• Development land, varying from small sites (circa 4-6 units) in rural areas with modest demand to larger sites in urban areas (circa 50-70).
• Delivery of adapted dwellings to meet the requirements of those with specific needs.
All developments and associated works must be fully compliant with the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government guidelines and standards.
A preliminary proposal via the official application form will need to be submitted along with required documentation.
Application forms must be received by 5pm on Thursday 5th September 2024.
Application forms and accompanying explanatory documents should be requested by emailing housingcapital@wexfordcoco.ie or may be downloaded from www.wexfordcoco.ie/housing/supply-of-turnkeyunits-and-development-land
Wexford County Council is subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2014.
Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following posts
Integration Support Worker (Grade VI) (18 month Contract)
Intercultural Support Worker (Grade V) (18 month Contract)
Selection for all posts will be by means of interview and candidates may be shortlisted based on applications submitted. Panels may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled.
Qualifications, application forms and further particulars for all posts are available from our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie
Please note all applications for the above posts must be Typed and submitted by Email only to recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie
Printed hard copies will NOT be accepted for the above posts.
Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for the above posts is: 5.00pm on Thursday, 8th August, 2024.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Fáiltíonn Comhairle Contae Loch Garman roimh iarratasóirí do na poist seo a leanas
Is trí agallamh a dhéanamh a dhéanfar rogha do na poist go léir agus d’fhéadfaí iarratasóirí a chur ar ghearrliosta bunaithe ar na hiarratais a chuirfear ar aghaidh. D’fhéadfaí painéil a bhunú óna bhféadfaí folúntais a líonadh amach anseo.
Tá fáil ar cháilíochtaí, foirmeacha iarratais agus sonraí breise do na poist go léir ár an láithreán gréasáin atá againn ar www.wexfordcoco.ie
Tabhair ar aird nach mór gach iarratas ar na poist thuasluaite a Chlóscríomh agus a chur ar aghaidh ar Ríomhphost amháin chuig recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie
NÍ GHLACFAR le cóipeanna crua priontáilte do na poist thuasluaite.
An dáta deiridh a ghlacfar le foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe do na poist thuasluaite ná: 5.00pm, Déardaoin an 8 Lúnasa 2024.
Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.
Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
Declaration of Roads to be Public Roads under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)
Wexford County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to consider the making of a declaration that the roads listed hereunder be public roads in accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993.
Maps showing the roads proposed to be taken in charge may be inspected during office hours, 9.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm from Wednesday 31st of July 2024 at Wexford County Council, Planning Department, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The latest date for the inspection of the above maps is 4.00pm on Friday 30th of August 2024.
ROADS:
• Whiterock Heights, Whiterock, Wexford.
Objections to or representations regarding the above proposals may be made in writing to: The County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The latest date for the receipt of written objections/representations is 4.00pm on Monday 16th of September 2024.
Dearbhú gur Bóithre Poiblí iad Bóithre
faoi Alt 11 d’Acht na mBóithre 1993 agus faoi Alt 180 den Acht um Pleanáil agus
Forbairt 2000 (arna leasú)
Tugann Comhairle Contae Loch Garman fógra leis seo maidir lena rún chun cuimhneamh ar dhearbhú a dhéanamh gur bóithre iad na bóithre a liostaítear anseo thíos i gcomhréir le hAlt 11 d’Acht na mBóithre, 1993.
Féadfar mapaí ar a léireofar na bóithre a moltar go dtógfaí faoi chúram iad a iniúchadh le linn uaireanta oifige, ón 9.00am go dtí 1.00pm agus ón 2.00pm go dtí 4.00pm ón gCéadaoin, an 31 Iúil 2024 ag Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, an Rannóg Pleanála, Halla an Chontae, An Charraig Leathan, Loch Garman.
An dáta deireanach le haghaidh na mapaí thuasluaite a iniúchadh ná 4.00pm Dé hAoine an 30 Lúnasa 2024.
BÓITHRE:
• Arda na Carraige Báine, An Charraig Bhán, Loch Garman. Féadfar tuairimí nó uiríll maidir leis na moltaí thuasluaite a dhéanamh i scríbhinn chuig: Rúnaí an Chontae, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, Halla an Chontae, An Charraig Leathan, Loch Garman.
An dáta deireanach le haghaidh tuairimí/uiríll i scríbhinn a bheith faighte ná 4.00pm Dé Luain an 16 Meán Fómhair 2024.
Wexford County Council has vacancies in the following areas of our Community Employment Scheme
Position Location
Environmental Worker – 2 positions Duncannon
Environmental Worker – 2 positions Wexford
Environmental Worker – 1 position Enniscorthy
Duties to include:
• Environmental Worker - General maintenance, cleaning, planting, and weeding etc.
To apply for the Enniscorthy position 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
To apply for the Wexford & Duncannon positions and for further information please contact – Sean O’Neill, CE Scheme 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 Thursday August 15th at 4.00pm.
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.
Notice Publishing Commencement of Audit
Wexford County Council
Notice is hereby given that the audit of the accounts of the above-named local government organisation for the financial year ended on the 31st day of December, 2023 will be commenced by Gerard McMorrow, Local Government Auditor, on the 14th day of August 2024. In accordance with article 17 of the Local Government (Financial and Audit Procedures) Regulations 2014, objections to any matter or matters contained in the said several accounts will be considered by the Local Government Auditor during the audit
Written notice of any proposed objection, setting out the relevant particulars and grounds on which it is to be made, should be sent to the above Local Government Auditor at C/o Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford within ten days of the commencement of the audit.
The annual financial statement will be available during office hours for the inspection of all persons for a period of seven days before the commencement of the audit.
Dated this 31st day of July 2024
Eddie Taaffe Chief Executive
Tá folúntais ag Comhairle Contae Loch Garman sna réimsí seo a leanas den Scéim Fostaíochta Pobail atá againn
Oibrí Comhshaoil – 2 phost Dún Canann
Oibrí Comhshaoil – 2 phost Loch Garman
Oibrí Comhshaoil – post amháin Inis Córthaidh Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
Áireofar ar na dualgais a bheidh le déanamh:
• Oibrí Comhshaoil - cothabháil ghinearálta, glantachán, plandú agus gortghlanadh etc.
Chun iarratas a dhéanamh ar an bpost in Inis Córthaidh agus chun tuilleadh eolais a fháil, déan teagmháil le Bernie Lennon, Maoirseoir na Scéime Fostaíochta Pobail, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, ar 087 6575743 le linn uaireanta oifige ón 9am – 5pm nó seol ríomhphost chuig: bernie.lennon@wexfordcoco.ie
Chun iarratas a dhéanamh ar na poist in Loch Garman & i nDún Canann agus chun tuilleadh eolais a fháil, déan teagmháil le Sean O’Neill, Maoirseoir na Scéime Fostaíochta Pobail, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, ar 086 9478001 le linn uaireanta oifige ón 9am – 5pm nó seol ríomhphost chuig: sean.oneill@wexfordcoco.ie
An dáta deiridh a ghlacfar le hiarratais ná Déardaoin, an 15 Lúnasa ag 4.00pm
Tabhair ar aird nach mór don té a dhéanann iarratas ar na poist seo critéir na Roinne Coimirce Sóisialaí a chomhlíonadh d’fhonn páirt a ghlacadh sa Scéim Fostaíochta Pobail.
Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna é Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.
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 www.etenders.gov.ie
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from 12 August 2024 to 22 November 2024 to facilitate the construction of a new bridge at Cullenstown, Foulksmills, Co. Wexford.
Road Closure: L-4025-3 at Cullenstown from its junction with Ballyclemock Junction.
Alternative Route: From Ballyclemock to Cullenstown via the L-4025-2, R735-10, N25, L-7019-1 and the L7020-1.
Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated.
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993
Temporary Closing of Roads
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Monday 12 August to Friday 23 August 2024, to facilitate the installation of an agricultural underpass at Haytown, Fethard on Sea, Co. Wexford.
Road Closure: L-8122-1 at Haytown from its junction with the L-4027-2 and L8118-2.
Alternative Route: From Haytown to Haggard to Knockanduff Via the L-8118-2, L-4046-3 and the L-4047-2.
Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated.
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Monday 12 August to Friday 23 August 2024 from 18:00 to 06:00, to facilitate urgent ducting works on behalf of ESB Networks at Rafter Street, Gorey, Co. Wexford. Road Closure: Rafter Street L5510-1, Gorey.
Alternative Route: From Main Street (R772) to North Parade (L1011) to Pearse Street (L5507).
Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated.
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Monday 12 August to Friday 23 August 2024 from 18:00 to 06:00, to facilitate urgent ducting works on behalf of ESB Networks at St Michael’s Street, Gorey, Co. Wexford.
Road Closure: St Michael’s Street, L5510-1, Gorey.
Alternative Route: From Main Street (R772) to The Avenue (R741) to Railway Road (L5500) to Wexford Street (L5503) to St Michael’s Place (L5502).
Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated.
Recoil new release and homecoming gig
By Dorn Simon. Pics by Damien Smullen.
RECOIL’s headline Homecoming Gig on Saturday 20th July was a huge success. The band’s only gig at The Presentation Arts Centre for the next while saw the lads fine-tuned, matured like an ageing wine, and bringing their popular anthems and new material to the stage.
It was a well-attended event with an atmosphere filled with fun, excitement, engagement, and support from the mixed-age audience members.
Damien Smullen, while there for press content, has been a follower of Recoil since their original line-up debut in April 2023, he had this to report: “It was a great gig, the lighting and sound were on point, the bands interacted with the fans, and the opening acts were epic. Recoil, as usual, did not disappoint, they have great stage charisma, and the audience went crazy.”
Tracey Delaney had this to say: “Recoil have done so well over the last year and have shown their maturity as a band, within their
talents, performance live onstage and in the music that they create, as seen by their singles ‘Rip You Out’, ‘I Wanna Start A Riot’, and ‘That's All I Said’ They have a huge fanbase in Enniscorthy and Wexford.
“The music scene in The Presentation Arts Centre attracts young and old from near and far.
“Recoil hosted another outstanding live event in the heart of Enniscorthy to add to The Presentation Arts Centre’s growing list of concerts for young people. It caters to local talent and music lovers.
“Watching Recoil grow from the first gig in April of 2023 has been
Recoil
Recoil
Recoil
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
a very proud moment for homegrown talent and music. When they began to play their first single 'Rip You Out', the dance floor filled in moments and the crowd chanted, cheered and clapped along. An electric atmosphere to match the electric soundtrack of the evening.”
The band’s latest single ‘That’s All I Said’, released on July 18, showcases their gearing-up with a maturity of musicianship and lyrical depth, with the progression of the band’s journey over the last 18+ months through what is now a multi-genre offering.
Saturday’s event, a long time since playing locally, the lads returned and brought their A-game, and have proven their dedication to the band, to the fans, the audience, the writing, the music and the playing, with the professionalism of a business as a band, and the tight-knit syncing each musician weaves to form Recoil as a musical unit – team players all.
No ego, pure talent putting on a good show for their dedicated followers and new audiences alike. Well done boys! n
Recoil
Joycult
Joycult
Reaction
Reaction
The Wires
The Wires
Courtown Colour Run
Organised by Gorey Hockey Club, 27th July 2024
Above: William McGrath and Sam Paisley. Below left: Charlene Murphy and Laura Caffrey. Below right: Getting in the mood for the run.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE
OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER
PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Niamh and Kiera Browne.
Ross and Samantha Cullen.
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
Slaney ad
Get ready for “OUTRAGE!”, a FREE 2-day music festival at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, this August Bank Holiday weekend Enjoy the best local and national acts, explore local stalls, and vendors, interact with local groups, and experience live music at its best.
Sixteen bands over two days will be tearing up the chapel stage in a brand new music festival by the good folks over at Outrage Entertainment, to celebrate the rising stars of the blossoming punk, metal and rock scene from Enniscorthy and beyond. On Saturday August 3rd: Sickened, Dead Memories, Brand New Dead Things, Death Can Wait, R.P.C, 12 Gauge Outrage, Toofarfetched, Psykosis. And on Sunday August 4th: Dirty Casuals, The Donnys, The Ovarlords, T.O.K., Irate Yeats, Absenth, Low Ground, BARMP. The festival is 100% FREE for the whole weekend! However, tickets are required. Get yours at www.presentationcentre.ie Over 18? Please bring your ID as wristband checks will be in operation. The festival is proudly supported by Creative Places Enniscorthy, The Arts Council, Wexford Arts Centre and Wexford County Council.
Kennedy Summer School
The Kennedy Summer School is set to be hosted in the ancestral hometown and homestead of President John F. Kennedy, New Ross, from August 29th to August 31st 2024. For full details of the guest speakers at the event and for tickets, see the Kennedy Summer School website: www.kennedysummerschool.ie
The Chair of the Kennedy Summer School Eileen Dunne says she is ‘honoured’ to announce that An Taoiseach Simon Harris is the special guest for this year's Noel Whelan Interview, a highlight of the 2024 Kennedy Summer School programme. The interview will take place on Friday, August 30th at 6pm at St. Michael’s Theatre.
2024 marks the 61st anniversary of President John F Kennedy's historic visit to New Ross and his ancestor's homestead at Dunganstown, where one of the most famous tea parties in history took place. That famous Irish tea party is set to be re-enacted at the JFK Arboretum in Co. Wexford during the annual Kennedy Summer School on the afternoon of Thursday 29th August 2024.
The Kennedy Summer School, under new Chairperson Eileen Dunne, will celebrate the presidential visit of John F Kennedy to New Ross and Dunganstown with a special event of talks, entertainment and afternoon tea. The event’s guest of honour will be former RTE journalist and news presenter Bryan Dobson. Bryan will speak about his long and varied career in broadcasting, looking back on some of the major stories he covered, both at home and abroad. He’ll also talk about his interests and pursuits beyond journalism ... spoiler alert – he’s a keen sailor.
Bryan retired in May of this year from the national public service broadcaster. During 37 years with RTE, he reported on news stories from home and abroad including the Northern Ireland peace process and the Good Friday Agreement; the economic crash; local, European and general elections; State visits; and many foreign assignments including the first democratic elections in South Africa, US Presidential elections and the UK’s Brexit referendum. He is married with two adult daughters and a grandson and lives with his wife Crea in Dublin.
Hosted by Seán Connick, CEO of the John F Kennedy Trust, with the support of members of the Wexford Federation, and Irish Countrywomen’s Association, guests can look forward to a convivial few hours of music, chat and afternoon tea.
The team at the Kennedy Summer School are also delighted to be joined this year by Todd Brothers who, fortunately, timed a visit home from the US that coincides with the Tea Party. Todd began his musical career on the stage of St Michael’s Theatre in New Ross and has played numerous principal roles with leading musical societies throughout Ireland.
Concert work has seen Todd appearing regularly in both in The Helix Theatre and with the Glasnevin Musical Society in the National Concert Hall. Todd has also performed at Centrestage, Covent Garden and the prestigious Red Cross Gala Ball in London's Royal Albert Hall. He also had the pleasure of providing backing vocals for Josh Groban on two separate occasions at the 3 Arena. Todd now lives in San Francisco but loves having the opportunity to perform in his native New Ross.
For details and tickets for the 2024 events see www.kennedysummerschool.ie or call St. Michael’s Theatre on 051 421255.
The Kennedy Summer School and Festival is run in association with the Office of Public Works, Failte Ireland, New Ross District Council, Wexford County Council, Purdue University & Boston College. n
Eileen Dunne
An Taoiseach Simon Harris
Bryan Dobson
Cillian Murphy’s New Ross film to be released in Ireland
The new Cillian Murphy movie based on the prizewinning book, Small Things Like These, by local, multiaward-winning author Claire Keegan is set to be released in Ireland later this year.
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 and uncovers disturbing activity at the local convent. The book is not so much about the nature of evil as the circumstances that allow it.
The movie itself was filmed in New Ross. Produced and financed by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck’s Artists Equity, “Small Things Like These” also marks the first feature out of the blocks from Murphy’s new company Big Things Films. Lionsgate has picked up the film for distribution in the U.S., the U.K. and Ireland. n
Rosslare Summerfe
It was a sunny Summer day of boundless fun for young children. They outnumbered their parents by at least three to one. There were at least two hundred of them among the 600 or so people in the big Rosslare soccer pitch at the back of the Rosslare Community and Recreation Centre, running, laughing, bouncing up and down and enjoying the annual Rosslare Summerfest.
Meanwhile, the All-Ireland Padel tennis finals were going on alongside in the new state of the art paddle tennis court. However, as far as we were concerned that was a different territory. We were content to traipse around the field day.
Anne Crowe Fortune (with three ‘e’s) without her guitar, and Trish Rolfe were in charge of very reasonable admissions on the gate. Ronnie Bent from Wexford Town belted out Swifty songs from a giant Roche Logistics juggernaut. Dakoda and Carol-Anne from a quaint Kellys Van doled out delicious crepe and strawberries. Out in the field, there were the uncontainable laughs of children as they hip hopped on a wooden platform, crept into the jaws of a giant long crocodile that had big eyes and went missing inside, or bounced up and down in the Tik Tok bouncy castle.
Another child with an uncontrollably infectious laugh pelted her father with soft toys as he held his head in a stock, just as they did with villains in England long ago
Dog lovers watched apprehensively as serious judges pored over the look and gait of their loved ones in the Rosslare version of Crufts.
Among the numerous stalls within the centre itself were the Wexford star of stage and screen, the pharmacist Dylan Walsh and his Dublin fiancée, teacher Amy Morrisson, and Joan Walsh showing off photographs that Dylan had taken all over the world for his Notions on Tour collection. For a song, we snapped up a beautiful photograph of the walk among the trees at the Raven, Curracloe.
There were numerous other stalls with jewellery, cuddly toys and crafts there too.
The importance of the day was underlined by the presence of Jim Codd, the new cathaoirleach of Rosslare Municipal District, Valerie Boggan, chairperson and Maria Mulcahy, the manager.
Noteworthy on the field was the support of local businesses.
Complimented on the hugeness of the event, the effervescent Maria, calm as a swan paddling down the Slaney intent on going to the Fleadh, said it was simple to organise.
Ah, at 18 degrees Celsius in the shade and 25 in Pat O’Connor’s car, it was one of those exceptionally gloriously blissful, balmy, sunny, carefree, memorable end of July Summer days in Rosslare Strand.
– M.F.
Lots of fun but a bit scary too! Lexie and Reeva Kelly.
Cillian Murphy in ‘Small Things Like These’.
est in the sun
Rosslare Community & Sports Centre, 28th July 2024
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE
OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Above left: ‘Say cheese Mr Chairman.’ Chairman of Rosslare Municipal District Cllr Jim Codd at the Rosslare Community Cheese & Wine stand.
Above right: Cllr Codd visits Bev Flood’s stand.
Left: Flipping crepes takes a lot of concentration! Pauline Power, Decoda Goin and Carol-Ann McCormack at the Kelly’s Hotel crepe stand.
Right: What a lovely day as Sonia Idsi and Karla Idsi from Brazil made themselves nice and comfy.
Above left: Young Esmae Robinson had her face painted by Artist Nicole Mullen. Above centre: Having a go on the Lady Birds was young Zander McCann. Above right: On the gate were the lovely Trish Rolfe, Billy O’Reilly and Ann Crowe-Fortune. Below left: Just in case of an accident – ambulance crew Sue Gaynor, Sean Furlong and Niall Mathnew-Browne. Below right: Dylan Walsh manning his art exhibition, with Joan Walsh and Amy Morrison.
Enniscorthy Credit Union celebrates 60th anniversary with Family Fun Night at the Dogs, 25th July 2024
Top: Tilly Morrissey and Soiarse Murphy. Above left: Phoebe Redmond, Claire McDevitt and Nessa Redmond. Above right: Katie Cloke and Aideen Mirka. Below left: Annette Byrne Moran and Seamus Morris. Below right: Mya and Erika Kehoe.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE
OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER
PAT O’CONNOR
087-2870006
Cian Lynch Doyle.
Above right:
Lena Rowe, Áine Doyle, Janet Doyle, Sinead Browne, Tommy Tyrrell, Orla Doyle, Bernie Doran Farrell and Gillian Foley, Enniscorthy Credit Union.
Right:
Frankie and Daire Kelly.
Below left: Martina, Sean, James and Coleen Cooper.
Mary achieves 1st Runner-up in international pageant
MARY MULLALLY IS ORIGINALLY FROM MILEHOUSE, ENNISCORTHY, BUT NOW LIVES IN CORK. WE'VE REPORTED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS BEFORE ON MARY'S SUCCESSES IN VARIOUS PAGEANTRY COMPETITIONS AND IN RECENT DAYS SHE HAS FINISHED 1ST RUNNER UP IN THE 'MS UNIVERSAL GLOBAL PAGEANT 24/25' EVENT HELD IN FLORIDA, USA... A REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENT AGAINST COMPETITORS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD.
To follow Mary’s journey at the recent international event held at the Florida Hotel & Conference Center, USA, check out https://www.facebook.com/MissEleganceUK
We reproduce below a Slaney News article about Mary from September last year after her success in the Miss Elegance of the World competition. n
Enniscorthy Musical Society news...
After a tough couple of years for Enniscorthy Musical Society, 2024 was like a breath of fresh air. The successful AGM in May put a new committee in place under Chairperson Tina Doyle. Its run of Happy Day – A New Musical was a huge success with audiences rockin' and rollin' in their seats and in the aisles, and culminating in two national awards at the recent Association of Irish Musical Societies annual awards held in Killarney. The Society recently announced its production for 2025 – the popular Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. And an upcoming Youth Workshop to help attract and develop young members has also been announced.
EMS Youth Workshop
Do you have a budding star in the family? Does your child love to perform? Book them in for the EMS Youth Workshop where they will work on their singing, acting and dancing skills with some of EMS talented members.
Open to 6-18 year olds, it will be held on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th of August, 10am5pm on both days, in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy. Cost for Saturday and Sunday: €25, Saturday only: €15.
Keep your eyes on the ‘Enniscorthy Musical Society’ Facebook page for updates. Email infoems.ie@gmail.com n
Some of the talented team at Enniscorthy Musical Society.
Castlebridge Show 2024
28th July 2024
Top left: Nathan Day winner of the Tony Furlong Memorial Trophy for Collection of Vegetables (Junior Section).
Top right: Sharon Drennan who won 1st Prize in the Decorated Cup Cake section.
Left: He’s behind you! Richard and Davin Walsh unfazed by the scarecrow nearby.
Right: Felicia Black and Eddie Hall, and their dogs Merlin and Archie.
Below left: Colm Flanagan at the Lucky Stall getting his prize from Brendan Mulqueen.
Below right: Theresa Hogan, winner of 2nd place in the Still Life Art section.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE LOTS MORE PHOTOS BY PAT O’CONNOR IN NEXT MONTH’S ISSUE 087-2870006
Eileen Grey and the Jazz Age Enniscorthy Castle, 16th of August 2024
A fantastic event coming soon to Enniscorthy Castle on the 16th of August at 7pm: "Eileen Grey and the Jazz Age" with music from the brilliant Allabair Trio.
This unique event includes a short talk on the work of architect and designer, Eileen Gray, and the modernist movement in France in the 1920s and 30s.
This will be followed by a concert of the music of the Paris jazz age, with the smooth sounds of the Allabair Trio. This concert is offered in partnership with the Wexford Normandy Cultural Association.
Tickets: €25 for Adults, €20 for Seniors/Students. To book call 053 9234699 or email info@enniscorthycastle.ie n
A Traditional Irish Music Busking Competition took place on Saturday 22nd June in Enniscorthy town. Prizes for the competition were: 1st Prize €500, 2nd Prize €300, 3rd Prize €150. Well done to all who took part and provided some great entertainment for the town. First Place was awarded to the O'Donoghue Family, Second Place went to CarraigBan CCE and 3rd place went to brotherand-sister group Ar Nos Na Gaoithe.
Gearing up for the Fleadh
A FLEADH FOR ALL
From 4th to 11th August 2024, the Wexford Fleadh Executive Committee and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann will host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024 in Wexford town – the world's largest celebration of Irish traditional music and heritage, welcoming over half a million people to the Sunny Southeast.
Tickets are on sale for some of the best traditional music acts appearing live throughout the week. Enjoy performances by Cherish the Ladies, Seoid, Maurice Lennon Trio, the RTE Concert Orchestra, and many more!
With this year's theme being of 'A Fleadh for All', the festival promises an inclusive and diverse events programme with something for everyone.
Enjoy traditional Irish music sessions in the local pubs, dance workshops with expert instructors in a fun and welcoming environment, art exhibitions exploring the artistic talents of local artists at various galleries and community centres, and captivating storytelling sessions for all ages.
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is kindly supported by Wexford Co. Council, Fáilte Ireland, and Wexford Credit Union. RTÉ and TG4 will once again act as broadcast and live broadcasting partners, respectively.
For ticket purchases and more information, visit: https://fleadhcheoilwexford.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows
In the run-up to the Fleadh starting on 4th August in Wexford town, a number of events took place around the Co. Wexford districts including TikTok sensations The Gardiner Brothers, donned in the purple and gold of Co. Wexford, appearing in Enniscorthy, bringing ‘dancing at the crossroads’ to life with traditional Irish dance numbers along with giving an Irish fla-
vour to some contemporary music, much to the delight of their legion of fans.
In a series of toe-tapping performances, The Gardiner Brothers, known for their innovative and energetic Irish dance routines, wowed the crowds at three iconic Enniscorthy landmarks. Their dance on the storied slopes of Vinegar Hill captured the essence of Irish heritage and rebellion, resonating deeply with both locals and visitors.
The historic Enniscorthy Castle provided a majestic backdrop for their next performance, where the brothers’ rhythmic steps captivated their audience. The performances culminated in a vibrant meet-and-greet at the Market Square, where fans of all ages had the opportunity to connect with the stars, take photos, and even learn a few dance moves.
Claire Lawless, District Manager of Enniscorthy Municipal District, expressed her delight at the success of the event: “We are thrilled to have hosted The Gardiner Brothers for this unique Fringe Fleadh event. Their performances have brought an extraordinary energy to Enniscorthy, showcasing our town’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit. This event has set a wonderful tone for the upcoming Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in August.”
The Fringe Fleadh '24 events around the district marked an exciting prelude to the larger celebrations set for Wexford Town, promising an unforgettable week of Irish music, dance, and cultural festivities.
For more information about the upcoming Fleadh including parking, street closures, public transport, tickets, accommodation, campsites, toilet facilities etc., visit: https://fleadhcheoil.ie/faq/ where is also a detailed map highlighting everything a visitor needs to know.
Keep up to date with developments on the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/fleadhcheoil.ie/ n
An unmissable night of Hits with Wexford Light Opera Society
Prepare to be swept away once again as the Wexford Light Opera Society (WLOS) proudly presents its 28th annual spectacle, Hits From The Musicals. Following an extraordinary run of The Phantom of the Opera, the society is now gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable experience. So mark your calendars for 28th to 31st October, 2024, coinciding with the Wexford Opera Festival.
The show commences each evening at 8pm with a carefully curated lineup featuring timeless classics and contemporary favourites performed by the acclaimed chorus of the Wexford Light Opera Society, alongside esteemed solo performers making a triumphant return to the stage.
Under the Musical Direction of David Hayes, Director Stephen Byrne, Chorus Mistress Eithne Corrigan, and the infectious humour and charm of audience favourite Catherine "Biddy" Walsh in the MC role, this event promises to be the highlight of the Wexford Festival Opera fringe events, delivering a dynamic and entertaining musical experience for all. n
Wexford Light Opera Society wins 5 national awards
Wexford Light Opera Society (WLOS) has just won 5 national AIMS (Association of Irish Musical Societies) Awards for its recent production of The Phantom of the Opera. At the prestigious awards ceremony at the INEC in Killarney on 15th June, WLOS won in each category it was nominated for: Best Technical, Best Female Singer - Karla Tracey, Best Musical DirectorDavid Hayes, Best Director - Christine Scarry, and Best Overall Show. n
Above L-R: Karla Tracey accepts her Best Singer award. Eric Hayes accepts the award for Best Overall Show. David Hayes with his Best Musical Director award.
Darragh C Photography
Darragh C Photography
Darragh C Photography
Wexford Strawberr y Weekend
6-7th July 2024. All pics on this page by Mar y Browne.
Above
Below
Bottom left, L-R: Margaret Wheelock, Joan and Barry Nolan.
Bottom right: Margaret and Cyril Wheelock. All pics: Mary Browne.
Above left, L-R: Simone Saupe, Cyril Wheelock and Felix Oser.
right: Margaret and Cyril Wheelock.
Left, L-R: Eamon Crean, Isaac Wheelock and Kathryn Roche.
left, L-R: Cyril Wheelock, Owen, Lorna and David Mullins.
Below, L-R: Liz Kelly and Pauline Doyle.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
TOP: THE WEXFORD STRAWBERRY WEEKEND, SATURDAY, 6TH JULY 2024.
Below left:
Below right: Theresa and the Stars performed at the Festival on 6th July.
Left: Seamus and Theresa Fortune.
Right: Anita and Ziggy Petry about to dive into a feast.
Zoe and Ben Murphy
Right: Quba and Layla Judge.
Wexford Strawberr y Weekend
Above
The Launch of
Chairman of Wexford County Council, and Cyril
Above right: How’s that for a burger son! Dad Declan Whelan gives his son Corey a bite.
Left: Looking at the Siorghlas Glass Art was Kendra Dulcieman.
Below
Below
Top left: Megan Vogel, Maddy Prokop and Grace Bauer with stall owner Kata C Rigo.
Top right: Facepainting, Nicola Paluszka with young Frankie Parman and her mum Nicola.
left:
Wheelocks Strawberry Icecream, Cllr Paddy Kavanagh, Tony Kehoe who opened the Weekend, Cllr Pip Breen,
Wheelock.
left: Sarah Maloney’s stall with customers John and Anne Cummins.
right: Country Grill chef Tynan Cunninghan and customer Jamie Doyle.
Top
Above left: Having fun with Paw
Above right: Tony Kehoe who offically opened the Strawberry
Left: Warren and Alfie Wheelock with Mickey and Minnie.
Below left: Tom and Ben Wheelock and Pip Breen, Chairman of Wexford County Council.
Below right: Paw Patrol with Mina, Luke and Sarah Hannon.
Above left: At the Wild About Mushrooms stand was Angie Franklin with stall owner Elaine Walsh.
right: Earth Food stand owner Maxim Costic watches Emily Heisey try some of the goodies on sale.
Hometown heroes Conor Kenny and Luc Power are continuing to make big waves in the Irish music scene following their month-long tour as part of Seven Drunken NightsThe Story of The Dubliners. Check out Conor & Luc’s new album on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ playlist?list=OLAK5uy_kx4F e43uBxFmuXimlhBVq3NIch 7sNM1NM n
Sweet music from SweetFarm
A LOCAL 72-YEAR-OLD, PATRICK FLEMING, HAS JUST RELEASED HIS FIRST SINGLE AS A SONGWRITER AND A CATCHY TUNE IT IS TOO...
The single features the cream of Enniscorthy musicians:
Richard King, guitar. Alphi Demp, bass and producer. Brendan Carthy, drums, and mixing engineer.
Patrick Fleming himself provides additional vocals and Irma Mirador Fleming provides the main vocals.
The collective that Pat formed is called SweetFarm, and he hopes to expand upon the work they've done, adding more songs and having a collaborative approach to making music.
Check them out on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8WHEnkHEI Q n
‘If you would like to see my show come to a spot near you, be sure to contact your local venue!’
Final curtain falls on EDG
After ten very enjoyable and successful years, Enniscorthy Drama Group (EDG) has taken the decision to drop the final curtain on its theatrical journey in the sure and certain knowledge that drama is alive and thriving in the town of Enniscorthy.
We in EDG have experienced the most amazing voyage of discovery since our inception in 2013, unearthing and developing a plethora of local talent and rekindling the town’s theatrical thirst bringing a myriad of excellent productions to the Enniscorthy stage such as Ritual for Dolls, A Tinker’s Wedding, Tom, Dick & Harry, Glengarry, Glen Ross, Pvt. Wars, Playboy of the Western World, A Night on the Hill, The Lost Weekend, A Whistle In The Dark, The Cripple of Inishmaan, The Beauty Queen of Leenane, Well Anything Quare, Mary Mary, When I Snap My Fingers, Blood of Nosferatu, Wild In The Country, A Skull In Connemara, Farsiders, Factory Girls, and The Hostage.
Twenty productions in a little less than eight years, taking Covid into account, is quite a remarkable achievement and EDG, under the Chairmanship of Liam Doyle, is immensely proud of taking on the mantle of re-introducing drama to the town and guaranteeing its continuance with the many and varied groups spawned from its origins.
As one of the founding members of the group, I would like on behalf of the Committee to take this opportunity to express our most sincere thanks to all who have helped and assisted us over the years – actors, backstage crews, playwrights, lighting and sound experts, sponsors, the Press, Social Media, The Presentation Arts Centre, the IFA, the Athenaeum, Enniscorthy Town Council and, most of all, the people of the town and beyond who have always been to the fore with support and encouragement.
I hope I may be excused if I single out a couple of people who have been staunch advocates of the group on every occasion and at every production –Paul Kehoe TD, James Browne TD, Johnny Mythen TD, all our local Councillors, town managers, Elizabeth Whyte, Lisa Byrne, Larry Dunne, Frank Corcoran (Slaney News), Dan Walsh and the Delightful Dollies.
Because of the tremendous support received, we the Committee have decided in conclusion to leave a legacy to the town and to the people who have been central to our success, and to this end we propose to make donations to the many groups now blossoming and promoting the arts in Enniscorthy and beyond with members and former members of EDG involved.
We, the Committee, in conjunction with Cultural Night, are organising the first ever Arts & Culture Festival in Enniscorthy from 20th – 22nd September 2024. The idea of the festival is to provide a platform for the many and varied art forms flourishing in our beautiful, artistic town.
The festival will include something for everyone – Art Exhibition, Drama Workshops, Night of Comedy, Premiere Screening of film Forbidden Bonds, Pop Up Poetry and Spoken Word, and Afternoon Tea with Author Claire Keegan at Enniscorthy Castle.
We envisage the Arts & Culture Festival becoming an annual event in the town and a lasting legacy of Enniscorthy Drama Group.
Finally, it remains for us to say a most sincere thank you to everyone for the last ten years as we look forward to the prospect of a promising theatrical Enniscorthy future.
– MARIA NOLAN
To keep up to date with, and see the full programme of events when finalised, check out the ‘Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival’ Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561746337551 n
Claire Keegan
Enniscorthy showcased around the world in books and film
Two films based on my book The Shadow of Freedom have won to date no less than fifteen awards between them in film festivals around Europe/UK and the USA, and we’re still counting!
To say that Wexford Film Workshop –Dick Donoghue, Jer Ennis, Maria Nolan and Barbara Guthrie – are delighted with the success of The Shadow of Freedom and A Country Divided would be an understatement.
Based on the War of Independence and Civil War in Enniscorthy and shot on location in the actual locations where the events happened over one hundred years ago, using local actors and reenactors with little or no budget, it is a marvellous achievement for all those involved to have picked up the following awards:
Winner – Best Short Narrative – Austin Film Festival
Winner – Best Director – European Film Festival
Winner – Best Short Film – European Film Festival
Winner – Best Actress – Bucharest Film Festival
Semi-Finalist – Dublin Film Festival
Semi-Finalist – Hawaii Film Festival
Semi-Finalist – New York Film Festival
Semi-Finalist – Tokyo Film Festival
Semi-Finalist – Nashville Film Festival
Semi-Finalist – Berlin Film Festival
Semi-Finalist – Hollywood Film Festival
Semi-Finalist – San Francisco Film Festival
Semi-Finalist – Benelux Film Festival
Selected – Cork Film Week
Selected – Swedish Film Festival
And our expectation is for more to follow as we put the finishes touches to our latest short movie Forbidden Bonds which will be screened at the official opening of the Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival on Culture Night 20th September at 8.30pm at Enniscorthy Castle.
Forbidden Bonds is set in 1240 Enniscorthy and tells the tale of the marriage
of Maud de Prendergast of Enniscorthy Castle, youngest daughter of Gerald de Prendergast, son of Philip de Prendergast who arrived to Wexford with Strongbow and built the Castle in 1190.
Our films showcase the town of Enniscorthy and its remarkable history through the ages and we are so pleased with the reception they are receiving around the globe. It can only be good for our town that it is being viewed at Film Festivals in Berlin, Bucharest,
Sweden, Tokyo, Hollywood, Hawaii, San Francisco, Nashville and Austin, Texas, and we would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to all our actors and re-enactors who give of their time and talent completely free of charge.
During the Arts & Culture Festival, 20th –22nd September, I will also be launching my fourth book, the first in the Shadow Series – The Shadow of the Pike, which tells the remarkable story of the Powers,
from Ballygarrett, the McDonalds, the Barbers, and the Randalls from Enniscorthy, Catholic, Protestant, and neither, all embroiled in the Rebellion of 1798.
Pat Power is killed on 21st June on Vinegar Hill, his younger brother James makes his way with others to Texas where he becomes an Empresario for the Mexican government, receiving large grants of land promising to populate them with Irish Catholics.
In 1834 James returns to Ireland and Wexford where he persuades over 300 people to travel back with him to Texas where the head of each family will receive 1,000 acres of fertile Texas grazing land to call his own.
For Irish Catholics who are prohibited from owning land in their own country, Texas is like the Promised Land but when the dictator Santa Anna comes to prominence in Mexico the Irish have a change of heart as the shadow of the pike follows them all the way from Vinegar Hill to the ill-fated Alamo, and wish as they may, or try as they might, they are unable to escape their destiny.
A novel based on truth, The Shadow of the Pike, although written last, is the first of the series followed by The Shadow of the Hill and The Shadow of Freedom depicting the history of Enniscorthy from 1798 to 1916, 1919, and 1923 and her people’s part in the struggle for freedom, not just in Ireland but anywhere oppression and injustice are found.
– MARIA NOLAN
A YOUNG ENNISCORTHY RAPPER, SEAN ROCHE, AKA LIL SKAG, IS MAKING QUITE A NAME FOR HIMSELF ON THE NATIONAL SCENE.
LIL SKAG WILL BE DOING A HOMECOMING PERFORMANCE IN ENNISCORTHY ON 9TH AUGUST AND THIS COULD BE YOUR LAST CHANCE TO CATCH HIM LIVE BEFORE HE MAKES IT REALLY BIG!
Our advice is to arrive early to catch the wonderful supporting local act – The Hugo Lynn Experience. n
Enniscorthy Retirement Association
The Enniscorthy Retirement Association holds monthly meeting on the first Tuesday of every month at 2.30pm in the Riverside Park Hotel, The Promenade, Enniscorthy, with the exception of January and August.
Patricia and Beata from Enniscorthy Library
The group has regular outings and recently visited Dáil Eireann, and also Walter Kelly’s Garden on 17th July.
There are regular activities every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Patricia and Beata from Enniscorthy Library gave a very informative presentation to the July meeting. Members are now aware of the many services our library offers, including film nights, Borrow Box, accessing newspapers and much more.
The Association now has a break for the summer and the next meeting will be on 3 September at 2.30pm at the Riverside Park Hotel.
For further details about Enniscorthy Retirement Association go along to any monthly meeting or see ‘Enniscorthy Retirement Association’ on Facebook or email: enniscorthtyretirementassociation@outlook.com
Check out the new website which is now live at www.enniscorthyretirement.net n
Dancing with Declan
Keep up to date with the local dancing scene on: https://www.facebook.com/DancingwithDec https://www.facebook.com/socialdancingdateswexford n
On Wexford
Check out https://www.facebook.com/groups/WexfordEvents for the best listing of what’s happening all over Co. Wexford. n
Bunclody Polo Club launch their Polo Fest which is on August 3rd. Front L-R: Ciaran Doyle, Grace O 'Leary, Aoibhe Jordan and Jennifer Healy. Back: Robert Hogg, Elaine Foley, Sinéad Doyle, Verona Murphy TD, Nick Murphy, Jennifer Doyle, and Tom Small. Pic: Mary Browne.
Acko to release his second album
ACKO
EASY JOURNEYS TO OTHER PLANETS
Former member of Grasshopper and The Revelator Orchestra Acko releases his second solo album Easy Journeys to Other Planets on the 16th of August
“After I finished my first album my thoughts turned to the last batch of songs that I wrote before pretty much giving up songwriting for about a decade. I had demos sitting untouched on a hard drive, all in various stages of development.
After a couple of weeks, out of a possible twelve I had eight that I wanted to pursue. I used the demos as the foundation. I replaced almost everything with a few exceptions like some of Noel Quaid’s bass tracks, Simon Good’s guitar parts on two songs (How Would You Know and Best I Can) and Iain King’s guitars on “Walking On The Water” .All of which were part of the original demo recordings.
I decided to resurrect a couple of old Grasshopper songs (Captain Incredible and Superman is Dead ) so it made sense to call on Brian K. Adams and Dan Straight to play on them, and with Cursed Murphy already a part of Born On Earth it seemed like a good idea to get them to play on that one as well, a sort of “Soft” Grasshopper reunion. Dan did the bass parts for the first two remotely from New Zealand and the last one in my studio when he was here on holidays. On that same day all four members of Grasshopper had coffee together for the first time in 27 years.
Former member of Grasshopper and The Revelator Orchestra Acko releases his second solo album Easy Journeys to Other Planets on the 16th of August
Brian lives in Dublin so it was easy to get him to come down and do his parts on all three. I called on the always reliable skills of Iain King to do new guitar parts on a few songs. My son Jags plays bass on a couple and my old busking and work friend Les Keye adds bass to one.
“After I finished my first album my thoughts turned to the last batch of songs that I wrote before pretty much giving up songwriting for about a decade. I had demos sitting untouched on a hard drive, all in various stages of development.
Top of The World which features Colm Mac Con Iomarie on viola was originally going to be a part of my first album but I just couldn’t get it to fit.
After a couple of weeks, out of a possible twelve I had eight that I wanted to pursue. I used the demos as the foundation. I replaced almost everything with a few exceptions like some of Noel Quaid’s bass tracks, Simon Good’s guitar parts on two songs (How Would You Know and Best I Can) and Iain King’s guitars on “Walking On The Water” .All of which were part of the original demo recordings.
I’m not much one for explaining the meanings of songs. Mostly because sometimes it can take years for me to figure out what they’re about. My last album was very much about friendship, I don’t think there’s any great theme to this one. There’s songs about mortality and what happens next, songs about just getting through life and even a couple of “Love” songs (Kind Of), but ultimately all my songs are about me…..mostly
I decided to resurrect a couple of old Grasshopper songs (Captain Incredible and Superman is Dead ) so it made sense to call on Brian K. Adams and Dan Straight to play on them, and with Cursed Murphy already a part of Born On Earth it seemed like a good idea to get them to play on that one as well, a sort of “Soft” Grasshopper reunion. Dan did the bass parts for the first two remotely from New Zealand and the last one in my studio when he was here on holidays. On that same day all four members of Grasshopper had coffee together for the first time in 27 years.
In March of this year me and my family suffered a great loss when our eldest daughter Sita passed away suddenly. When something like this happens, you get a lot of perspective from it. You kinda realise what’s important and what’s not. I’ve worn a lot of hats in music over the years. I’ve been a busker, a lead singer in bands, a live and studio engineer, a tour manager and backline tech and now a solo artist. And I’ve decided what I really want to do is record and release music. So, I’ve already started the next album.
Easy Journeys to Other Planets is dedicated to Sita”
Brian lives in Dublin so it was easy to get him to come down and do his parts on all three. I called on the always reliable skills of Iain King to do new guitar parts on a few songs. My son Jags plays bass on a couple and my old busking and work friend Les Keye adds bass to one.
Acko
Top of The World which features Colm Mac Con Iomarie on viola was originally going to be a part of my first album but I just couldn’t get it to fit.
July 2024
Disney Day at Wheelock’s
24th July 2024
The Village at Wheelock’s Disney Day featured disco fun and games with all the favourite Disney characters.
Right: Ryas, Ruby and Natasha Kinsella.
Below left: Enjoying the Minnie Mouse train.
Below right: Collette and Clodagh Kehoe.
Bottom: Enjoying the disco, fun and craic.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
The Slaney Writers group meets in Enniscorthy Library on the second Thursday of every month at 6.30pm. New members are always welcome. If you are interested please contact Enniscorthy Library on 053 9236055.
Enniscorthy Library Adult Book Club meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7pm and is free to join. Book clubs are a great way to meet others and discuss books. If you would like more information or to join, contact Enniscorthy library on 053 9236055. All are welcome. n
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES
Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.
The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000
The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529
Stay in touch with Wexford’s library services
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
Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely
For a complete listing of upcoming music, drama, comedy, film, art, etc, see: https://www.courthousearts.ie/whats-on n
Creative Places Enniscorthy
Deryn O Callaghan is the Project Co-ordinator. For any queries, suggestions or ideas, tel: 087 9578984.
Email: cpenniscorthy@wexfordartscentre.ie www.creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie https://www.facebook.com/CreativePlacesEnniscorthy n
Deirdre’s show wows Sir
Lyricist Sir Tim Rice, most noted for his collaborations with Andrew Lloyd Webber, was amongst the many guests in attendance at the National Opera House recently for the premiere of a brand new musical by West End composer Stuart Brayson. Irish Affair is based on the true story of a happily married couple – Sean Cloney, a Catholic and Sheila Kelly, a Protestant – in the rural village of Fethardon-Sea, Wexford, in 1957 and the drama that ensued as a result of their strong convictions. It was the desire of the composer to showcase his new musical in the National Opera House, near to where the story originated and for the quality of the venue.
Presented collaboratively by The Irish College of Music Theatre (IMT) and the National Opera House, Irish Affair was deemed a triumphant affair, receiving instantaneous standing ovations on each of the three performances in the Jerome Hynes Theatre, June 27-29.
The music was beautifully arranged by Music Director David Wray, lending itself to a legitimate musical theatre score with influences from rock, pop and traditional Irish music. Musicians Katie O’ Connor (violin), Pat Fitzpatrick (multiple reed), Nicky Bailey (percussion), and David Wray on piano had audiences en-
gaged from the haunting and catchy melodies.
Directed and produced by local Wexford woman Deirdre Masterson, most widely known as one-third of the internationally sensational ‘Irish Sopranos’, the story was sensitively and sincerely told with credible characterisations from the committed cast.
It is difficult to single out cast members, as the passionate and tal-
ented ensemble acted as key players throughout the showcase. Sheila KellyCloney was aptly performed by Co. Wicklow soprano Karla Tracey, who only last month received an AIMS award for her performance in Wexford Light Opera’s production of ‘Phantom of the Opera’. Kilkenny-man Fionn Gardner duly captured the very essence of Sean Cloney. Together, their chemistry and interpretations thoroughly conveyed the trials and tribulations of a mixed married couple set in 1950s rural Ireland.
Michael O’Gorman shone in the role as the barman ‘Paddy’, throughout this musical workshop, which undeniably had a full production feel to its presentation. His sense of comedic timing and narration throughout gave a welcomed balance of light and shade throughout the musical.
Every play must have its “baddy”, and Irish Affair gave us a memorable role in the character of Fr Stafford, convincingly portrayed by local Wexford man Tony Carty, no stranger to the National Opera House stage over the years. He was suitably accompanied by Dublin based Hannah McNicholas Roche and Wexford IMT alumni, Laura Carroll, who portrayed the teachers from the local school. This duo created an impeccable dark/comedic relationship throughout the score, who sought to instil discipline in the entire community.
Pic: Mark Ivory
Pic: Mark Ivory
L-R: Musical Director David Wray, NOH Chairman Paul Hennessey, composer Stuart Brayson, Sir Tim Rice, NOH General Manager John Warburton, director Deirdre Masterson and Associate Producer Elizabeth Drwal.
'Irish Affair' cast and creative team with Sir Tim Rice, National Opera House, June 2024.
Tim Rice
The players (Emma Stack, Holly Rossiter, Annemarie O’ Mahoney, Oisin Murphy and Daniel Furlong) were committed in their respective roles throughout, with strong vocals, harmonies and characterisations. As too were the children’s ensemble, which included Lyla and Allie Keane, playing the parts of Sean and Sheila’s children, Eileen and Mary Cloney.
It comes as no surprise that Irish Affair received an overwhelming positive reaction from the audiences, which included Sir Tim Rice, who said, “Stuart Brayson’s new musical Irish Affair is much more than a story about love across religious divides in the late 1950s. His words and music for this show are as moving and as relevant today.”
Also attending the premiere was the notable music industry executive, CBE Chris Wright, who commented, “Irish Affair, the new musical by West End writer Stuart Brayson, captures the essence of rural Ireland in the late twentieth century in a captivating way, with wonderful music and a highly engaging cast. The difficult aspect of the plot is dealt with in a really sensitive manner. It is totally enjoyable from beginning to end.”
The composer Stuart Brayson, who collaborated with Sir Tim Rice on the West End Musical, ‘From Here to Eternity’, was absolutely thrilled with the reception Irish Affair received at the National Opera House for its debut showcase.
“New musicals are a strange beast”, he said. “You can put blood, sweat and tears into the process of bringing it to life. But the magic ingredient is always the audience. One can’t exist without the other. So when each of the three performances of Irish Affair all received a long and loud standing ovation, only then did we really know we had something truly special on our hands.”
This begs the question as to what is next for Irish Affair? The cast, crew, creatives and audiences would argue that it is such a great Irish love story, the hope is that it can grow and reach the far larger audiences it so richly deserves. n
Deirdre Masterson releases new single ‘Only Love’
Ballycanew’s award-winning Irish Soprano Deirdre Masterson made her stage debut at the age of 12 in the role of the Spirit in Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas and some time later forged a successful singing career as one of ‘The Irish Sopranos’, with which she toured the world for a number of years, before changing track and returning to a successful career in opera, operetta, recital, concert and recordings.
In addition to her own career as a singer, Deirdre is Head of Vocal Studies and a Company Director at the Irish College of Musical Theatre, an institution she helped found in 2011, formed with the aim of developing and expanding music theatre training in Ireland. She is also the Dean of Performing Arts for the Irish American University in Dublin, and a voice specialist focused on the training and rehabilitation of injured voices.
Deirdre is a successful recording artist and her latest single Only Love, penned by Nana Mouskouri, has just been released to critical acclaim. One can watch the live edition of Only Love performed by Deirdre at the National Concert Hall, Dublin, and stream and download Only Love now on all streaming platforms.
Watch here: https://youtu.be/6zTObyfmbEs https://www.facebook.com/dmastersonsinger/ https://music.apple.com/gb/album/only-love-single/1739369242 n
Vintage Tractor Run and BBQ in the Coal Bunker in aid of Relay For Life
7th July 2024
Top: Jason Quirke. Above left: Evan Devereux. Above right: Sam Hawkins. Below left: David Devereux. Below right: Dave Firman and Jim Hamilton. Bottom left: Andy Firman, Robert Rowe, Jack and Rory O’Connor. Bottom right: Jack Connick and Dan Kelly.
Anne Manning’s clay workshops
Visual artist Anne Manning recently designed and ran two clay workshops for third class students in Davidstown and Courtnacuddy primary schools.
Anne is interested in expanding her role as a facilitator and an explorer of creative expression, building concepts of colour and form, connected to nature and community and focused on sustainability.
In these clay workshops, Anne helped the children develop skills and techniques to further their individuality, self expression and confidence, through respectful relationships and interconnections.
The classes were very successful and a showcase of the children's work took place in the meeting room of Davidstown and Courtnacuddy GAA Club on 30th June. See photos below.
Anne has kindly donated a proportion of the proceeds of the workshops to Davidstown Courtnacuddy GAA handball training. n
Top: Two of the collectors Susie Maddock and Mary Firman. Above: Andy Firman and Eddie McGuire. Below: Stephen Heffernan. Bottom: Eimear Coleman and Frank Cardiff.
A review of Colm Tóibín’s new book ‘Long Island’
by Maria Nolan
Brooklyn heroine Eilis Lacey is returning home to Enniscorthy after an absence of twenty years for her mother’s 80th birthday, but that’s not the only reason Eilis has for making the trip.
Out of the blue a man arrived at the front door of the home she shares at Long Island with husband Tony, daughter Rosella and son Larry, to tell her that he would be leaving a newborn baby on her doorstep as soon as it made its entrance into the world.
Tony, a plumber, apparently had enjoyed his plumbing work at the man’s home a little too much and now this man’s wife is pregnant, and he is adamant that there was no way that he will be bringing up another man’s child in his home with his own children, so as soon as the birth occurs the child will be left on Eilis’ doorstep.
The man, consumed by his own situation, shows no compassion for Ellis as an injured party.
It appears there is no relationship between Tony and this woman, but Tony is agreeable to take the child, and rear it as his own, with encouragement from his mother and their extended Italian family who live in the shadow of one another at Lindenhurst, Long Island.
Neither is there the expected and totally understandable big flare-up between Eilis and Tony, but Eilis is adamant that she is not taking another woman’s child into her home and rearing it as her own with her own children.
However, the Italian Fiorellos devise a plan for Tony’s mother to look after the child as Eilis leaves for Ireland, with Rosella and Larry to follow closer to her mother’s birthday.
As the first part of Long Island plays out it is never clear exactly how Eilis feels about Tony’s indiscretion, there is no great confrontation between them and the love that kept them together for the
past twenty years is not obviously apparent.
What is apparent is the control that the Fiorello family execute on family members, and their subtle yet unbendable way of imposing their collective will on all.
Eilis, unlike her two sisters-in-law, exerts her independence in quiet silence without displaying her hurt and humiliation or striving to explain her actions.
Once back in Enniscorthy, the reader is continually hoping that herself and Jim Farrell, the man she left for Tony twenty years previous, will get back together once again despite the fact that Jim is now secretly having a relationship with Nancy Sheridan, her one-time best friend.
Nancy has experienced difficult times since her husband George died and now runs a fish and chip shop at Market Square to the consternation of her neighbours.
We would all agree that she deserves a little happiness in her life and Jim Farrell who runs his own pub on Rafter Street seems to be just the man for her.
And yet, once again there appears to be no great love between Nancy and Jim, Nancy seemingly more in love with the life he could give her and the bungalow that she craves away from the centre of Enniscorthy town, than with the man himself.
Long Island is such an easy read, the writing is simple, and the plot isn’t complicated and yet there is something in
Colm Toibin (centre) on a recent viist to Eason’s bookshop in Enniscorthy.
the writing that compels the reader to keep reading.
I found myself racing through pages waiting for the first encounter between Jim and Eilis, hoping that there would still be a spark between them, and there certainly is something, but you are not quite sure what, so you keep reading hoping to find out more at their next encounter.
Colm Toibin’s characters seem almost shy, certainly reluctant to reveal their inner most thoughts and feelings and passions to the reader and this can be frustrating at times but has the desired effect of calculated suspense that keeps us spellbound to the very end.
Eilis treats us, the readers, as she does the population of 1970s Enniscorthy, never revealing too much of herself to us and constantly keeping us guessing as to what she might do or why she might do it.
It is clear that Jim Farrell still holds a torch for her even after twenty years and is prepared to up roots and follow her all the way to America and yet could just as easily marry Nancy Sheridan if things fall the other way.
It is the silence of the characters and their penchant for not answering questions that keeps us the reader, confused, by times irritated, certainly frustrated, exasperated, and unsatisfied to the bitter end, almost wanting to grab them by the shoulders and shake the answers out of them.
`Do you love him, more than you love your husband, did you make a mistake twenty years ago?’
`Have you never stopped loving her, even though you were going to marry someone else.’
We the readers want to know the answers to these questions, we eagerly await honest, passionate declarations, we want to know if this is the once in a lifetime love that transcends time and everything in between and Colm Toibin very cleverly refuses to satiate our inquisitiveness, keeping us in limbo all the way through and long after we finish the book, and that’s the pure genius of it.
Well done Colm Toibin, can’t wait for the film and the sequel to the sequel.
– Maria Nolan
Colm Toibin and his new book ‘Long Island’ are making literary waves worldwide. John Kavanagh (above), originally from Enniscorthy, and his wife Ingrid (below) recently caught up with Colm at a book signing and reading in Literaturhauscafé, Grand Café Hamburg, Germany.
Above: Enniscorthy and Colm Tóibín featuring in a Hamburg newspaper with 530,000 readership.
A work of art for Mick
Corin James, a distinguished artist based in New Ross, Wexford, recently attended the CIE Charity Football Tournament in Enniscorthy to present a custom art piece to Mick Abidoye.
Corin is widely recognised for producing exceptional artworks for high-profile influencers, actors, and rappers within the Irish entertainment industry. His clientele includes prominent figures such as Wex-
Andrew’s new book garners rave reviews
ford's Dami Hope, Monjola, Maverick, Aby Coulibaly, and Barry Keoghan. Mick expressed great satisfaction with the artwork Corin presented to him at the event. n
Enniscorthy author Andew Hughes is best known as an award-winning author of historical fiction but in his new book ‘Emma, Disappeared’, which has been garnering rave reviews, Andrew moves into the realm of contemporary crime.
In this new book, everyone is talking about the disappearance of Emma Harte. A highachieving university graduate and young entrepreneur, she was last seen in the early hours of the morning on grainy CCTV footage in Dublin's city centre before vanishing into thin air. While a national debate about women's safety rages, eyes turn to Emma's boyfriend, Tom – who is nowhere to be found.
Meanwhile, archivist James Lyster is following the story with undue interest. When a comment he makes about Emma goes viral on social media, he finds himself drawn into the world of a group of idealistic university students involved in the search – and attracting the attention of the police detective in charge of Emma's case. Then a body is discovered in shrubland near James' flat. As the police get closer to finding out what happened to Emma Harte, James' life begins to unravel. Is he a victim or murderer? Feminist ally or callous liar? For it turns out that James isn't the only one with secrets... n
The ‘Irish Examiner’ described Andrew’s book as, ‘A glorious read both literary and page-turning with corkscrew twists.’ It's no surprise that Andrew Hughes' clever mystery novel 'Emma, Disappeared' has been published to rave reviews.
Andew Hughes, right, with RTE’s Oliver Callan.
Caroline Busher and Claire Keegan
Afternoon Tea in Enniscorthy Castle
Saturday 21st September 2-4pm
Caroline Busher in Conversation with Claire Keegan, Author of Small Things Like These.
As part of Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival 2024.
Hidden Worlds
Curated by Eamonn Maxwell
12 October – 2 November 2024
Wex-Art Festival Gallery at Westgate Heritage Centre
Hidden Worlds is a Wex-Art Festival open-call, group exhibition for artists working in the South East region, with a particular focus on Co. Wexford. The aim of the exhibition is to give artists a platform to showcase their work during the Wex-Art Festival, which runs alongside Wexford Festival Opera throughout October, as well as work with curator Eamonn Maxwell.
The theme of the exhibition is Hidden Worlds, and artists are asked to submit works that show an unknown aspect of their practice, their processes or influences. By revealing these, the exhibition will provide a unique insight into the inspirations that shape contemporary art in the region.
The exhibition will feature work by approximately eight artists, and those selected will each receive an exhibition fee in line with best practices.
To submit an application, please email the required information and images to wexfestartists@gmail.com with the subject line: Hidden Worlds. The deadline for applications is 4pm on Thursday 8 August, 2024.
Eamonn Maxwell has worked as a curator and advisor in the visual arts for over 20 years. Recently, he has worked as Collection Adviser for the Arts Council alongside his independent curatorial practice.
APPLICATION DETAILS
Artists applying will:
Be artists currently living and working in the South East region and a particular focus for this exhibition will be on artists in County Wexford.
Submit no more than six examples of works in Jpeg format (with a maximum file size 3MB) and/or three links to previous projects (including films or audio works).
Provide a CV, artist statement and a brief description on each work and how they meet the theme.
SUBMISSION NOTES
Any medium will be considered but any single art work cannot measure more than 1m x 1m (x 1m for sculpture/installation pieces).
CRITERIA
The exhibition is aimed at artists working in the South East region, with a particular focus on Co. Wexford, whose work responds to the theme. In addition, the organisers are eager to showcase the work of artists who have not previously exhibited as part of the Wex-Art Festival. The selection of work will be based on its relevance to the theme and in consideration of the overall aesthetic of the group exhibition. n
Ed causing a stir up North
Marie Reynolds, nee O’Connor, is originally from St. Aidan’s, Enniscorthy, and lived in Co. Meath for many years before retiring back to Bunclody. She is the proud mum of Ed Reynolds who is causing quite a stir in artistic circles and has also had several sold-out exhibitions in Bunclody.
According to The Irish News newspaper: ‘Ed’s creative process invites viewers not just to observe but to become part of the exhibition. People can witness the transformation of a blank canvas into a vibrant depiction of the city, their presence subtly influencing the final works.’
‘I love demystifying the process of painting,’ he explains. ‘Part of my mission is to reveal and not conceal. I really enjoy showing people how a painting comes together.’
By painting in situ, he blurs the lines between artist, artwork and audience, fostering a unique participatory art experience. ‘I love the process of being amongst the subject that I’m painting. You get a true sense of what it is you’re looking for and what you’re trying to achieve with the painting, and I love engaging with passersby.’”
Ed had plenty of opportunity to engage with passersby at Wexford’s Art in the Open festival which ran from 20-28th July 2024. n
Read more about Ed here: https://www.irishnews.com/life/celebrating-belfast-city-centre-warts-and-allTYQO563IAVFJTHNBHRNZYYGALY/#:~:text=About%20Belfast%20is%20a%20collection,experiences%20with%20people%20he%20meets
Exciting new artist residencies
Creative Places Enniscorthy is delighted to launch in partnership a new artists residency programme at the renowned Cow House Studios, Rathnure, Wexford.
This initiative offers Wexford-based artists critically valuable time and space to become immersed, research, and make new work. The residencies foster immersion in the creative process and ensures that momentum gained while working in the studio can be acted upon, helping to make even shorter stays highly productive.
Cow House Studios is an artist-run workspace. It is a unique centre of excellence set on a working farm amidst the rolling hills and adjacent to a forest in rural Wexford. Founded in 2008, it provides a nurturing environment for artists to create, collaborate and engage with each other and the local community. This is a wonderful opportunity for artists in the south east to meet and work alongside a dynamic group of local and international practitioners.
Starting 5th August 2024, four selected artists will begin CPE residencies throughout the month of August. Each residency will last for one week during which time the artists will immerse themselves in their practice have opportunity to collaborate and contribute to the cultural landscape of Enniscorthy.
THE FOUR ARTISTS ARE:
Sarah Walsh 5 – 11 August
Sarah Walsh is a Dutch/Irish actor, as well as a drama facilitator with an M.Ed in drama in education. She will use this week at Cow House Studio to finish a play she has been developing in a playwriting course at The Lir that will be performed in a pub.
Paul Cashin 12 – 18 August
An Irish artist based in Wexford. His chosen medium is oil on canvas, along with photography, drawing and sculpture. His work normally contains a figurative element, but not always, located in an Irish landscape. He is interested in largescale paintings that employ a sense of embodiment to create large
complex scenes imbued with pattern and repetition in order to explore ideas of the numinous or awe.
Gillian O’Shea 19 – 25 August
An emerging visual Irish artist passionate about highlighting the importance of our natural world, particularly in the face of the climate crisis. Her practice explores themes of the nature, conservation and transformation through ambitious large-scale works that offer the public exciting new ways to engage with contemporary art.
Fiona O’Connor 26 August– 01 September
Fiona O'Connor is an artist who uses photography as a medium to explore her ideas. She has an interest in things that catch her eye, make her think, smile and spark her curiosity. She enjoys and plays with the space photography holds. It can document events and
people in our lives but also it has the ability to obscure and twist.
Deryn O Callaghan of Creative Places Enniscorthy says: ‘Creative Places Enniscorthy are thrilled to partner with Cow House Studios on this initiative. We hope these residencies will encourage cultural exchanges, break down boundaries and build bridges between artists living and working in our community in ways that can be transformative.‘
For more information about the Cow House Studios artist residency programme and full artists biographies and other Creative Places Enniscorthy projects, contact the Coordinator Deryn O Callaghan:
W: www.creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie
W: https://cowhousestudios.com
E: cpenniscorthy@wexfordartscentre.ie
M: 087 9578984 n
Investment in Cultural Inclusion
The Creative Ireland programme at Wexford County Council has invested in a creative partnership between residents of direct provision centres in south Co. Wexford and the National Opera House Education and Outreach programme. Entitled ‘Who Am I Now’, the project sees the development of a new music and dance composition that supports the exchange of cultural knowledge, and highlights pathways towards a new and more inclusive expression of modern Irish identity.
Through a series of rehearsals and workshops focusing on dance, drama and music, the residents of the Direct Provision Centres will devise and develop a performance that interprets their arrival in Ireland, their experience of seeking international protection, and their hopes for community and togetherness in the future. Accompanied by a musical score composed and performed by traditional Irish music band Tulua, the performance will be showcased by our new communities as part of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in August 2024.
Cathaoirleach of Wexford Cllr. Pip Breen says: ‘The Who Am I Now project is a great opportunity to enhance communi-
cation and understanding between communities and individuals. Cultural expression enables us to tell each other who we are and sets the scene for who we might become. This project not only helps to preserve our cultural heritage, but also highlights the value that cultural diversity will bring to Irish identity now and in the future.’
‘Who Am I Now’ will be performed at The National Opera House on Wednesday 7th August at 7.30 pm. Tickets are €10 or €5 concession and can be purchased through the Wexford Arts Centre Box Office (Y35 X5HF), over the phone 053 912 3764 or online from the Fleadh Ticketsolve. For more information about this project please contact elizabeth.howard@wexfordcoco.ie n
An exhibition of work from the late artist and illustrator, Murt McGarry
Coinciding with this year’s Fleadh, Wexford Arts Centre, in partnership with Wexford County Council, is delighted to present an exhibition of work from the late artist and illustrator, Murt McGarry of Kilmore Quay. This collection of work is presented in collaboration with the McGarry family and offers some of the finest examples of the artist’s drawings and illustrations.
Murt McGarry had a deep interest in Irish history and folklore and worked on a freelance basis, supplying illustrations to the likes of Ireland's Own magazine and producing the drawings for the Irish National Heritage Park. He cared a lot
Murt McGarry A Selection of Drawings & Illustrations
Wexford Arts Centre 4th – 14th August, 2024
for the environment, being passionate about trees in particular. Murt was ahead of his time in terms of climate action and wholeheartedly disagreed with excessive felling of mature trees. Some of his most notable pieces are illustrations of ageold trees along with poetry in their defence. He had a love for traditional music and played the tin whistle and the bodhran. He attended each Fleadh in Ireland and would be very proud to see it come to Wexford this year. McGarry also worked on a Celtic history book, 'Strangers at Home' which went to the printers shortly before he died in 2006. He has been described as a gentle soul who was blessed with a poetic outlook
on life. This exhibition offers an insight into the artist’s practice through a selection of drawings and illustrations.
Gallery opening hours are Sunday 4 to Wednesday 14 August from 10am - 5pm, with the exception of Monday 12th August when the Arts Centre will be closed.
The exhibition is supported by Wexford County Council. Wexford Arts Centre is supported by the Arts Council of Ireland and Wexford County Council.
For further information on the exhibition or artist Murt McGarry, contact Wexford Arts Centre, Cornmarket, Wexford, on +353 (0)53 91 23764 or email info@wexfordartscentre.ie n
Mon 10.30am - 5.30pm (closed 1pm to 2pm).
Tues 10.30am - 5.30pm. Weds 10.30am - 5.30pm.
Thurs 10.30am - 8.30pm. Fri 10.30am - 5.30pm.
Sat 10.30am - 5.30pm (closed 1pm to 2pm).
Closed Saturdays & Mondays of bank holiday weekends. n
Step inside ‘vivid new worlds’
Enigma
An Exhibition Of Artwork by Onyedikachi Onwusor
The Presentation Arts Centre
Enniscorthy
July 13th - September 7th 2024
Officially opened on July 13th by former Mayor of Wexford and independent curator Maura Bell, with additional speeches by the artist Onyedikachi Onwusor and venue manager, Larry Dunne.
Enigma captures the fulfillment of being present, living in the moment, and embracing all that comes with it. This collection, observed over a five-year period in Onyedikachi's home of Owerri, Nigeria, delves into how we often perceive things superficially rather than exploring deeper to uncover the full story and lessons within our everyday experiences.
Onyedikachi states that his artwork emerges from a place of insanity and constant wandering of thoughts, with the orbital skies symbolising individual existence within our own unique spaces. The vibrant backgrounds reflect the beauty and chaos of our world. However, the entire collection is balanced with the subject matter in black and white, reminding us that simplicity and presence are essential for navigating our complex existence.
"Bold and bright artwork, with unbelievably beautiful contrast."
– Maura
Bell
"The scale of Onyedikachi's artwork makes you feel like you can step inside these paintings into vivid new worlds. They are such a testament to the hard work and dedication that Onyedikachi puts into his visual arts practice."
– Larry Dunne
Onyedikachi Onwusor, is a Nigerian self-taught artist currently based in Wexford, Ireland. He holds a master's degree in energy management from the Technological University Dublin. He draws inspiration from how people often overlook the simple aspects of life. His artwork combines recognised subject matter with bold colours and abstract elements, creating a unique interpretation to provoke self-awakening and raise awareness of our connection with the environment. As an art enthusiast and nature lover, he continually explores captivating ways to showcase the immense potential that comes from being in harmony with nature and embracing one's true self.
This exhibition runs daily in The Presentation Arts Centre Enniscorthy. It is free to visit, and no booking is required. n
Pic: Kristin Gray
Pic: Kristin Gray
Pic: Kristin Gray
‘ENIGMA’ Exhibition at The Presentation Arts Centre, Eniscorthy
Saturday July 13th saw the official launch at The Presentation Arts Centre, Eniscorthy, of Onyedikachi Onwusor's exhibition 'ENIGMA' with special guest, Maura Bell.
Onyedikachi Onwusor, also known as Arcana Art, is a Nigerian, self-taught artist, currently based in Wexford.
Onyedikachi draws inspiration from how people often overlook the simple aspects of life. His artwork combines recognised subject matter with bold colours and abstract elements, creating a unique interpretation. In addition to this style, he also creates realistic landscapes and portrays majestic big cats. Onyedikachi's work aims to provoke selfawakening and raise awareness of our connection with the environment. As an art enthusiast and nature lover, he continually explores captivating ways to showcase the immense potential that comes from being in harmony with nature and embracing one's true self.
This exhibition of bold and contemporary paintings has to be seen in person to take in the scale and vigour.
Onyedikachi Onwusor's 'ENIGMA' runs from July 13thSeptember 7th 2024. n
The Presentation Centre staff at the ‘Enigma’ exhibition launch 13th July 2024, L-R: Conor Gibson, Larry Dunne, Bridget Connolly, artist Onyedikachi Onwusor, Alphi Demp.
Pic: Kristin Gray
Pic: Kristin Gray
Pic: Kristin Gray
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
CRAB LINGUINE
INGREDIENTS:
12 ounces dry Pasta (any long thin variety you love: linguine, spaghetti, bucatini or fettuccine).
Cook Pasta: Add 3½ to 4 quarts (14-16 cups) of water to a large pot and bring to a boil. Season the water with 1½ tablespoons of kosher salt. Add the pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until 1 minute shy of al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of cooking water and then drain the pasta.
While the pasta is cooking, sauté shallots and aromatics: Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large, high-sided sauté pan over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic. Cook, stirring often, until just softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the wine and tomatoes: Add the wine followed by the tomatoes to the pan. Season with a generous pinch of pepper. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Simmer, stirring often, until the wine is reduced by about half and the tomatoes are soft and juicy, about 6-8 minutes.
Add remaining butter: Add the remaining butter to the pan and gently whisk/stir until the butter is melted and combined. Add crabmeat: Add the crabmeat to the pan and cook, stirring, until just heated through, about 1 minute.
Add the pasta and cooking liquid as needed: Add the pasta and ¼ cup of pasta water to the pan. Cook, tossing constantly and adding more reserved pasta water as needed, until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta, about 1-2 minutes.
Garnish & Serve: Remove from heat and top with fresh herbs and lemon zest (and parmesan if using). Toss well to combine. Taste and adjust for seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy! n
https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted
Pic: Caitriona Barron.
Caitriona Barron
Pic: Caitriona Barron
ooted in exford
As summer draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the fruits of your labour in the garden over the past few months. From the first tender salad leaves of spring to the abundant harvest of courgettes and sweet corn in midsummer, your garden has likely been a source of both nourishment and satisfaction. Now, as the days grow shorter, it’s time to focus on harvesting what’s ready and start planning for the cooler months ahead.
Over the past few months, your garden has likely thrived with careful tending. The broccoli you sowed in late spring should now be producing firm, green heads ready for harvesting. If you’ve been diligent with watering and feeding, your Nantes carrots have likely reached a sweet, crunchy perfection, and your courgettes are probably producing more than you can eat. Timing is key when harvesting these vegetables – pick them at their peak for the best flavour and nutritional value.
Broccoli heads are best harvested before the flowers begin
Mark Cooke invites you to grow along with him.
The Slaney News is delighted to have Enniscorthy man, Mark Cooke, on board as a columnist. Mark is a 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 7,500 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 loves sharing his passion for growing with our readers.
to open. Cut the main head with a sharp knife, leaving the stalk intact. This will encourage side shoots to develop, giving you a bonus harvest later on. Carrots can be gently pulled from the ground once they reach a decent size, but don’t leave them too long, as they can become tough and woody. Courgettes should be picked when they are about 6-8 inches long for the best taste and texture. Regular harvesting will encourage the plants to produce more.
Your sweet corn, planted in early summer, should also be ready for picking now. Look for ears where the silks have turned brown, and the kernels are plump and juicy. A quick test is to press a kernel with your thumbnail – if the juice is milky, it’s time to harvest. Runner beans, too, should be picked when they are young and tender, as older beans can become tough and stringy. While you enjoy the bounty of your summer harvest, it’s also time to think about what’s next. Ireland’s mild climate allows for an extended growing season, making it possible to plant winter vegetables that will keep your garden productive and your kitchen well-stocked throughout the colder months. One excellent winter vegetable
to consider is parsnips. Parsnips are incredibly hardy and even improve in flavour after a frost. If you haven’t sown them yet, there’s still time to do so. Sow parsnip seeds directly into the ground in well-prepared soil that’s free from stones. Parsnips take a while to germinate, often several weeks, but they’re well worth the wait. They require little maintenance other than regular watering and thinning to ensure proper spacing. Parsnips can be harvested from late autumn through winter, and their sweet, earthy flavour makes them perfect for roasting or adding to hearty stews.
Another great option for winter is turnips. Turnips are quick to mature, making them an excellent choice for a late summer planting. Sow the seeds directly into the ground, about half an inch deep, and keep the soil consistently moist until they germinate. Turnips grow best in cool weather and can be harvested in as little as six to ten weeks. Both the roots and the greens are edible – the roots can be roasted or mashed, while the greens can be sautéed or added to soups.
Finally, consider planting winter onions, also known as Japanese or overwintering onions. These onions are sown in late summer or early autumn and are designed to withstand cold winter
temperatures. Sow the seeds directly into the ground in well-drained soil, or plant sets (small onion bulbs) if you prefer. Space them about 4 inches apart, and ensure they have plenty of sunlight. Winter onions are relatively low maintenance and will grow slowly over the winter, ready for harvest in early summer of the following year. They’re a great way to ensure your garden keeps producing, even when most other crops have been harvested.
As you harvest your summer crops and prepare your garden for winter, take a moment to appreciate the seasonal rhythm of gardening. There’s something deeply satisfying about the cycle of planting, growing, harvesting, and starting anew. By growing winter vegetables like parsnips, turnips, and winter onions, you’re ensuring that your garden remains a source of nourishment and joy, even as the days grow shorter and colder.
For more tips on winter gardening and to follow my growing journey, be sure to link in with me on Instagram @rootedinwexford. Happy gardening, and here’s to a bountiful winter harvest! n
Tim and Fiona Phelan invite you to visit their new cafe at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy.
The Ballymaloe-trained couple are making full use of a new, top-of-the-range kitchen to offer exceptional food produced in-house as well as supporting local artisan suppliers.
The cafe serves mouth-watering breakfast and lunch menus Mon-Fri 9am to 4.30pm, and brunch on Saturdays 10am to 3pm. Closed on Sundays.
Takeaway and Outside Catering also available.
https://www.facebook.com/Cafe98Enniscorthy
https://www.instagram.com/cafe98enniscorthy
Telephone: 085 1993775
Wexford strawberry ice cream
Have you tried Wheelock’s Wexford Strawberry Ice Cream yet? It’s irresistible, made using their own homegrown strawberries.
So the next time you visit the Village at Wheelock’s, make sure to give it a try. n
Wexford’s Mór Taste gets a ‘Kickstart’ from Lidl
Lidl Ireland is set to give a ‘Kickstart’ to a new batch of 48 Irish producers from across the country who successfully earned a place on the retailer’s coveted Kickstart Supplier Development Programme – an initiative that the retailer has invested more than €30 million in supporting over 250 Irish producers to date.
Following a competitive Dragon’s Den style pitch process to find this year’s most innovative products, 48 suppliers across 20 different counties including Mór Taste from Killinick, Co. Wexford, were selected as the cream of the crop after an intensive application process which saw producers put through their paces with a business pitch to Lidl’s buying team and a taste test to select the best in category.
Founded in 2023 by Felix Oser (pictured), Mór Taste’s jams have the highest fruit content of jam in Europe, containing 85% real fruit and only natural ingredients making their jams very fruity but less sweet.
Successful producers will now see their artisan offerings on Lidl shelves across its 220 stores on the island of Ireland from September 19th for a limited time, while stocks last. This includes Mór Taste Jams which will be available in Lidl stores nationwide. n
Wexford Food Producers highlig facing the Irish food production
The Wexford Food Producers Network CLG hosted its 2024 Annual General Meeting & Networking Event on Thursday 27th June 2024 at Marlfield House, Gorey, with over fifty representatives of Wexford’s food producer companies in attendance.
The rising costs of running a food production company in Ireland today combined with forthcoming legislative food safety regulations coming down the track were some of the important issues raised by members of the organisation at the recent Annual General Meeting.
The Food, Drink & Primary Production sector accounts for 40% of all export sales by Irish-owned companies, directly supporting 165,000 jobs, or 6.5% of total employment, predominantly in rural and coastal communities. The Wexford Food Producers Network CLG supports the development of the business of Wexford food. The organisation contributes to building a sustainable food industry that works collaboratively to achieve a stronger economic impact not only for Wexford based companies but for the wider Irish economy.
Speaking about the challenges, newly re-elected Chairperson Trudie Power spoke of the difficulties many Wexford food production companies face in their respective businesses.
"The cost of doing business in Ireland post pandemic has con-
siderably increased and many challenges lie ahead not only for well established businesses but for our micro enterprise category members who are only just starting out on their food production journey. Increases in delivery costs due to significant rise in fuel costs, cost of building materials and labour while upgrading premises, availability of a trained workforce as businesses grow and the cost of raw materials have all increased significantly.
“Now more than ever the relationship between our food producers and Wexford Local Enterprise Office is so very important as they provide vital supports to new and established Wexford food production companies.”
To address some of these current challenges, Breege Cosgrave, Head of the Economic Unit, Wexford Co. Council, attended the meeting to meet and discuss these issues with the organisation and its members. Representatives from Wexford Local Enterprise Office were also in attendance to meet with each of the Wexford food company representatives to advise them on supports, expertise and potential funding streams available to them via the local agency. A presentation was hosted by Annette Rowsome, Senior Enterprise Development Officer, highlighting various opportunities whereby micro enterprise food companies starting their journey in food production can seek advice and various funding streams support.
Below left: Trudie Power, Chairperson, The Wexford Food Producers Network, presenting a hamper of Wexford food produce to Annette Rowsome, Senior Enterprise Development Officer, Wexford Local Enterprise Office, at the recent 2024 Annual General Meeting and networking event for The Wexford Food Producers Network CLG hosted at Marlfield House, Gorey, Co. Wexford.
Below right: Kathryn Roche, Irish Country Meats, and Pauline Dunne, Killowen Farm, attending the 2024 Annual General Meeting and networking event for The Wexford Food Producers Network CLG.
ht challenges sector
This year Wexford food producers will participate in various events across the country to engage with new audiences and spread the word of Wexford foods and beverages. Forthcoming events include a ‘Wexford Fleadh Artisan Food Hall’ which will run from the 7th – 11th August 2024 at The Wexford Presbyterian Church, Anne Street, Wexford, as part of the forthcoming Fleadh celebrations. The organisation will also be represented at the forthcoming Blás na hEireann Awards, Dingle, Wexford Festival Opera, and Gifted at the RDS later this year.
The Wexford Food Producers Network CLG provides a centralised, member-led and member-representative organisation with a core remit to promote and support the business of Wexford food. The organisation has over fifty members who are Wexford based sole traders, SMEs and large companies. Their continued aim is to support Wexford food producers, to build a sustainable food industry and to contribute significantly to the Irish economy on a local, regional, national and international level through export markets.
The Wexford Food Producers Network is recognised and supported by Wexford County Council, Wexford Local Enterprise Office and Wexford Local Development. The Wexford Food Producers Network engages with the Department of Agriculture, Food & The Marine and with national agencies Bord Bia, Bord Iascaigh Mhara and Ornua –The Irish Dairy Board, and Fáilte Ireland, on various important issues for the Irish Food & Drinks sector.
For further information please visit www.wexfordfoodfamily.com
Images: Mary Browne, Browne’s Photography, New Ross. n
Above: Trudie Power, Chairperson, presenting a hamper of Wexford food produce to Breege Cosgrave, Head of the Economic Unit, Wexford Co.Council, at the recent 2024 Annual General Meeting and networking event for The Wexford Food Producers Network CLG at Marlfield House, Gorey, Co. Wexford.
Below left: Trudie Power, Chairperson, presenting a hamper of Wexford food produce to Margaret Bowe, Director, Marlfield House at the recent 2024 Annual General Meeting and networking event at Marlfield House, Gorey.
Below right: Cyril and Margaret Wheelock at the 2024 Annual General Meeting and networking event for The Wexford Food Producers Network CLG held on 27th June 2024.
Wexford’s fleadh for foodies
CAMOGIE
STARS HELP LAUNCH
ARTISAN FOOD HALL...
Some of Wexford's star camogie players were on hand to help launch the Wexford Food Producers Network Wexford Fleadh Artisan Food Hall which will be open in Wexford town during the Fleadh from 7th to 11th August in Wexford Presbyterian Church.
The camogie players taking part (and enjoying the strawberries) were Clodagh Jackman, Laura Dempsey, Anna Hennessey, Roisin Cooney and Sarah O'Connor.
Our top photo shows the girls with Trudie Power Wexford Food Family president.
Our bottom photo shows the camogie
Photos: Mary Browne. n
stars with Eamon Crean from Greenhill Fruit Farm.
Turning over a new LEAF
Literacy and Food Education (LEAF) invites you to collect free seed packs at your local library to grow your own food.
LEAF a new seed growing initiative to support people in County Wexford grow their own food, was launched in Gorey Library by An Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr. Pip Breen, last month.
This LEAF literacy and food education programme is a partnership between GIY (Grow it Yourself), Wexford Libraries and Libraries Ireland.
To take part you are invited to register with the LEAF programme at www.libraryleaf.ie and call to your local library at Wexford, New Ross, Gorey, Enniscorthy or Bunclody to collect your free seed packet of peas, beans and spinach. This programme is being delivered from libraries across south east Ireland who will now reach out to people who have never tried to grow food before and to those who have information and experience to share. In the coming months, Free seed packs, and information packs, information events along with digital resources and
'how to' videos will be made available in libraries and online to help you grow, to help sow seeds of empathy and nurture a culture of sustainable living.
For more information and to register to take part, call to your local library and visit the LEAF Programme website:
LEAF is funded under the Community Climate Action Programme and is a pilot programme with GIY (Grow it Yourself Waterford). It is supported by Libraries Ireland and Government of Ireland. n
L to R: Sinead Carey (Library Assistant), Mary Kearney (Executive Librarian), Meaghan Keenan (Gorey Library), Hazel Percival (Senior Executive Librarian), Cllr. Pip Breen (Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council), Willie Masterson (Gorey Tidy Towns), Claire McCreegh (Edible Towns/ Wexford Environmental Network), Philip Knight (Gorey Municipal District Manager).
Slaney Farms, based in Enniscorthy, celebrated for its sustainable potato production, recently featured in the Climate Journal magazine. With a €2m investment in cutting-edge technology, they lead in Irish potato production. Their commitment to sustainability, including reduced plastic usage and community support, earned them top honours in the 'Excellence in Sustainability' category at the Wexford Chamber Business Awards 2023. They also support international initiatives like VITA in Ethiopia while prioritising local suppliers for a thriving local economy.
Opel’s Global CEO pays homage to Wexford’s Ferrybank Motors
Florian Huettl, Opel’s global CEO, enjoyed an historic visit to Dublin on 16th July 2024 to meet with the Opel Ireland team at Gowan Auto, Irish importer of Opel vehicles and spare parts. The high-octane, one-day itinerary included an Opel dealer visit, an indepth business review, an insightful town hall address to Opel employees and dealers, and an interview with national media.
Florian Huettl said of the visit: “Opel has a long and successful history in Ireland with a loyal customer base. We have seen consistent success, especially in the light commercial vehicle segment, where Opel enjoys a market share of 8 percent, a growth of 48 percent in the first half of 2024, compared to the same time last year. We have also succeeded in increasing our overall market share in Ireland.”
In the spirit of Opel’s new motto, ‘Forever Forward Since 1899’, Florian’s visit to Dublin was the perfect platform to celebrate several key milestones. Opel’s longest-standing dealers in Ireland were presented with trophies, to mark their many decades of partnership with the blitz brand. Dealer Principals at Ferrybank Motors, Wexford, John and Wendy O’Rourke, were presented with a trophy
John and Wendy O’Rourke are presented with an award by James Brooks, Opel Ireland MD (left) and Florian Huettl, Opel global CEO (right).
for the dealership’s 57 years of Opel business, since 1967, when it was first established by the late Frank O’Rourke, and his wife Mary.
Inspiring his audience throughout the day, Florian’s address further galvanised team spirit at a momentous time for the brand as it celebrates a 125-year milestone in 2024. First founded by Adam
Opel in Russelsheim, Germany, since 1899 the carmaker has made mobility affordable for millions of people and has continuously enthused the public with innovative models. Today, the brand looks ahead to entering a bright new electrified chapter in its history: by the end of 2024 all passenger car and light commercial vehicle models in the Opel range will offer fully electric powertrains. n
Ferrybank Opel, Main Opel Dealer and dedicated supporter of women’s rugby, recently presented rugby balls to the U18s women’s team at Wexford Wanderers Rugby Club. The initiative is part of Opel Ireland’s Drive the Passion programme, which aims to enhance the local rugby scene .
Busy times at Datapac
Enniscorthy-based Datapac, Ireland’s leading technology solutions and services provider, last month announced that its Managed Threat Ops service has analysed over 380 million cybersecurity events since it was first launched 12 months ago.
A cybersecurity event is any activity on an organisation’s network that may be indicative of a security concern, such as a failed login attempt or a login from a different geographical location. Other events in the past year have included suspicious movement within company networks or otherwise unusual behaviour patterns, lateral movement techniques that may be used by attackers to move within a network after gaining initial access, and anomalous user behaviour that may indicate a compromised account or insider attack.
Managed Threat Ops provides 24/7/365 cyberthreat hunting, response, and neutralisation to stop cybersecurity incidents in their tracks.
In its first year, the service has been adopted by customers across a broad spectrum of organisation sizes and industry verticals such as legal, the public sector, distribution, construction, retail, hospitality, and not-for-profit. Managed Threat Ops provides proactive support to businesses of all sizes, including
In July Datapac announced that its technology is helping to drive equine disease diagnosis and research for the Irish Equine Centre.
Datapac delivered a complete refresh of the centre’s IT ecosystem to support the rollout of a wide range of services, including laboratory diagnostics, disease surveillance, and research on equine health and biosecurity. The solution is underpinning continued growth and success for the centre, which has just launched the Pet Vet Lab to advance the health of household pets. n
Pictured at the announcement that Datapac’s technology is supporting horse health and wellbeing for the Irish Equine Centre are L-R:
Michael Mahady, IT Manager, Irish Equine Centre, and Debbie Grey, CEO, Irish Equine Centre.
single-site SMBs as well as national and multinational enterprises.
Driving the demand for the Managed Threat Ops service is the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape. Increasing threat sophistication means that some traditional cybersecurity solutions, such as antivirus, firewalls, and unmanaged endpoint protection, are often not enough to provide sufficient protection for businesses.
In the coming year, Datapac expects a number of key driving factors will contribute to increased uptake of the Managed Threat Ops service. These include new pieces of legislation that are due to come into effect – the NIS2 Directive and the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) – which mandate robust cybersecurity measures to ensure compliance and security management best practices.
In addition, in line with growing cyber threats, cybersecurity insurance is becoming a necessity for more organisations. In order to secure favourable premiums and, in many cases, to secure cybersecurity insurance at all, organisations need to have 24/7 managed threat detection and response in place.
Karen O’Connor, General Manager, Datapac: “A key strength of the Managed Threat Ops service is its ability to cut through the cybersecurity noise, as some
seemingly benign security events could bypass most traditional cybersecurity systems, posing a risk to data security. More and more organisations of all sizes are realising the benefits that 24/7 managed threat detection and response services can provide in the modern threat landscape. Managed Threat Ops is robust enough to meet the demands of larger enterprises, yet scalable enough to operate within the more moderate budgets of organisations in the SMB space. Going forward, it will also help organisations to remain compliant as new regulations come into force. We’re looking forward to continued success with the service amid increasing demand from customers for proactive and reliable cybersecurity.” n
Colin Chapman, Business Relationship Manager, Datapac,
Karen O’Connor, General Manager, Datapac.
Wexford’s Local Enterprise Office – always available to help
To assist the small-business community in meeting the challenges of the business world, LEOs provide a wide range of high-quality training supports which are tailored to meet specific business requirements.
Whether it is starting a business or growing a business there is something suitable for everyone.
Check out Wexford’s Local Enterprise Office website for more information: www.localenterprise.ie/wexford
Is Your Business Export Ready?
Micro and small business go through several cycles – start-up, growth and scale-up through to maturity and exit. Part of this journey includes considering the advantages of expanding and the business opportunities exporting offers, entering new markets, generating business growth and profitability.
Local Enterprise Office Wexford will give you the insight and tools to drive confidence and activity throughout your business to adapt to the demands of new markets and overseas customers. To compete with the best in the world and win!
To achieve success in expanding your business internationally requires a number of actions, which could include employing additional staff, increasing your marketing efforts, digital and eCommerce capability, offering new products and services and forming strategic business alliances.
Your Local Enterprise Office Wexford is there to walk you through your export journey.
https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/ n
Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development, Local Enterprise Office, Wexford County Council.
LOCAL ENTERPRISE OFFICE
Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93
info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie
Contact: 053 9196020
Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie
Looking to enhance your Business's Digital Potential? Introducing Digital for Business, a game-changing initiative from the Local Enterprise Office. Designed to equip clients with a digital edge, we offer tailored support to optimise processes, enhance customer experiences, and leverage data effectively.
Embrace technology and future-proof your business with: FREE Digital expert consultancy, FREE Digital assessment. A unique digital strategy.
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Lean For Business is designed to encourage clients to adopt Lean business principles in their organisations to increase performance and competitiveness. Lean is for all companies, regardless of sector. The scheme provides consultancy support which is up to 90% funded, with up to 5 half-day site visits available.
Lean tools and techniques are helping companies across the globe to address competitiveness issues within their businesses by building the capability of their people to identify problems, improve operations and create a more innovative organisation. In a nutshell, Lean is about doing things quicker, better and saving costs. Lean strives to remove waste and to continually improve a company.
Book here: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Financial-Supports/Lean-for-Business/ n
Wexford Co. Council and Gorey’s Hatch Lab agree new partnership
A new Partnership Agreement has been signed by Wexford County Council and the Model County Enterprise Group to support The Hatch Lab, Gorey.
Wexford County Council and the Model County Enterprise Group CLG are pleased to announce the signing of a new Service Level Agreement (SLA) to support The Hatch Lab, as an innovation space for SMEs located in Gorey, Co. Wexford. This partnership, solidified last month, looks to foster job creation and entrepreneurial growth in the region.
The agreement aims to significantly increase awareness of The Hatch Lab, attract new startups, and support existing clients on their business growth journey.
Cllr. Oliver Walsh, Cathaoirleach of
Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District, expressed the commitment of Wexford County Council regarding the partnership, stating, “This agreement represents a significant step forward for The Hatch Lab and the entrepreneurial community in County Wexford. We are confident that under the management of the Model County Enterprise Group, The Hatch Lab will continue to be a beacon of innovation, IT and business development in the region.”
Bernie Morrissey, Director of the Model County Enterprise Group, added, “We are delighted to collaborate with Wexford County Council to manage and promote The Hatch Lab. Our aim is to create an environment that supports start-ups and established businesses
alike, providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.”
The Hatch Lab is an incubation space located in Gorey, Co. Wexford, providing grade “A” office accommodation. The Hatch Lab is designed specifically for innovative companies, supporting business concepts, business start-ups and coworking staff. Becoming a client of The Hatch Lab covers incubation space, networking, mentoring, advice, organised events, peer to peer learning and sharing of ideas, information and knowledge, technical expert talks and pitches to potential investors. With the new management agreement in place, The Hatch Lab is set to enhance its offerings, ensuring it continues to meet the evolving needs of the business community. n
Back row L-R: Aisling Browne, Marketing & New Media Consultant with The Discovery Partnership; Philip Knight, Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District Manager; Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise & Economic Development, Wexford Co. Council; Cllr. Donal Kenny, Leas Cathaoirleach, Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District; John O’Connor, Chief Executive Officer, Model County Enterprise Group.
Front row L-R: Liz Hore, Director of Services, Wexford County Council; Cllr. Oliver Walsh, Cathaoirleach of Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District; Bernie Morrissey, Director, Model County Enterprise Group.
Struggling to secure finance for your small business? Microfinance Ireland supports small businesses in the Republic of Ireland with fewer than 10 employees and turnover up to €2m, offering unsecured business loans ranging from €2,000 to €25,000 for commercially viable proposals.
Use your MFI loan to fund start-up costs, working capital, purchase of stock, equipment, machinery, business expansion, and more. Apply for an MFI loan through your Local Enterprise Office and enjoy a 1% discount off the standard interest rate (currently 6.5% APR), bringing the rate down to 5.5% APR.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to fuel your business growth. Apply today and take your business to the next level with MFI!
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Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie n
An ideal meeting venue with onsite restaurant and lots of free parking
Looking for the perfect space for your next meeting or event? Then Kilcannon Garden Centre & Restaurant might be the answer!
Its meeting rooms are ideal for gatherings of up to 60 guests, each fully equipped with a digital projection display system, screens, flip charts, and a sound system. The rooms are fitted with partitions so if you need more space, you can easily be accommodated.
Plus, Kilcannon provides a full menu to ensure a complete service and a productive experience.
Call on 053 923 5514 to find out more. n
South East Animal Rescue
South East Animal Rescue’s shop at 27 Court St, Enniscorthy, always has lots of bargains available. Call in or email: southeastanimalrescue@gmail.com n
Above: Courtown Colour Run on 27th July 2024, Kellyann and Emer Kennedy and pet dog Nero.
Below: Rosslare Strand Summer Festival at Rosslare Community and Sports Centre, 28th July 2024, Rebecca Ryan posing for a picture with her dog Ricky who took part in the dog show there.
The more I work with pets and horses the more I see not just their individual traits but a different level of intelligence that they show in various ways. These ways are subtle, they're sentient but when you start to get a read on them you realise that there is a whole new world opening up in front of us. This world is their quiet little gestures like sitting on your foot like my own little fella at home does when I or one or the crew needs grounding. The number of times when I diagnose a condition and go to explain it to the owner and they say, 'Ah we know about that already... the missus or the child suffers from the same thing'.... Initially I thought that's a coincidence but when it kept happening over the years I began to take a little bit more notice. Doing the energy medicine, working on the energy field you learn lots about them too... Dogs that are vomiting often show up with huge stagnancy in the energy field around their head more so than their tummy. Then I realised, yeah, it makes sense.... We get nausea and vomit, people with migraine headaches often vomit but don't have a sick stomach starting off so maybe its similar in dogs. Coming back to dogs showing up with similar ailments to their owners.... yeah I know it can be a bridge too far for lots of people to think that their dog is going out in sympathy with them but for me I have seen it too often to ignore it now. For me our pets aren't looking at what hairdo we turn up with each morning... they're looking and reading our energy field, that subtle field around each of us... an aura. It can be good or bad depending what’s happening in our lives. They see it as their job to help even if sometimes it means to their detriment I feel. That's what they bring to
with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital
the table when they've been cared for and well looked after its... unconditional love... that's it, no conditions, just undivided loyalty and love.
People open up with all kinds of stories of how their dog or cat or sometimes horse have literally saved them as they went through some extreme crisis in their own lives. It might have been a physical trauma, bereavement or illness. When they had no one else to turn to often their pet is the one that nurtured and cajoled them into getting out and even going for the walk on the beach or woods each day was the lifeline that saw them through.
Seeing them through a new lens brings a new level of respect and also wonder and these quiet but profound creatures that put up with our foibles and failings with remarkable fortitude and patience.... I sometimes think they're thinking, 'When are these people gonna wake up and smell the roses!!?' Little by little we're awakening to a new way of seeing our four-legged companions as being much more than just a pet to be walked and fed. They are our company or confidante and our rock.
Looking at Nature in general, the infinite level of intelligence that helps everything grow, blossom, fade and die is the synergy of life itself. It’s time we look with the eyes of a child and see the world of wonder that is in the shape of all the different leaves, the sunrise or sunset, the foals, lambs or calves frolicking in the fields.
The innate wisdom of Nature awaits us. It’s when we slow down enough we see it... Enjoy the view. 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):
The Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the brand's bestselling models in Ireland alongside the Golf and the T-Roc. It's been around since about 2007 and has quite a following in Ireland.
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
CAROLINE GETS MOTORING VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN
Now in its third generation, the new Tiguan brings fresh styling and a hightech interior. Power comes from a diesel engine or a petrol plug-in hybrid. It's now quite an expensive car, though
prices have been going up among compact SUVs for several years.
The Tiguan diesel goes on sale priced from €48,095 in the entry level Life trim, from €48,295 for the Launch Edi-
tion, from €57,095 for the Elegance and from €58,150 for the R Line.
The petrol plug-in hybrid is available in Elegance or R Line trim and starts from €54,250.
All versions come with an automatic gearbox - there's no manual anymore.
It looks pretty different too, a bit like the electric ID.4 if you squint a bit. The dimensions haven't really changed much, but it is longer by about 3cm. Though most of the benefit of that is in the boot.
rotary dial with its own mini screen on the centre console. It can be used to adjust the radio volume, driving modes or background lighting colours.
The top of the range R Line now features high-tech matrix LED headlights connected by a new light strip, along with sportier bumpers, 19-inch alloy wheels, chrome trim and a large air intake with glossy black mesh finish. It's a bit chunkier looking than before but it will turn heads in an eye-catching colour like the signature Persimmon Red Metallic.
Inside, the Tiguan feels far more hightech than before with a large touchscreen, full digital driver display and new panels backlit with ambient lighting. The cabin is quite minimalist with few buttons on the centre console. But the touchscreen now has updated software, which is easy enough to navigate - though a few more buttons and dials wouldn't go amiss!
There is also voice control and a new
The Tiguan's cabin does stand out for quality with plenty of soft furnishings to feel a cut above the rest. R Line models come with gorgeous sports seats with integrated headrests and more subtle blue trim. The seats are heated and can give you a massage, though there's no power adjustment. Other features include wireless smartphone charging for two phones and a leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel.
Boot space is now up to 652 litres so it's one of the best available. It's wide and deep so ideal for family life. It's also very spacious in the back seat with loads of rear legroom and headroom, and practical features like USBC ports, tri-zone climate control and pockets in the back of the front seats.
The new Tiguan is available in Ireland with the choice of a 2.0-litre diesel with a 7-speed automatic or a plug-in hybrid with an EV driving range in the region of 100 kilometres. The diesel is a tried and trusted engine found in many of the Volkswagen Group’s cars and SUVs.
In the Tiguan it puts out 150hp and offers good economy between 5.3 and 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres over mixed roads, though consumption can be considerably less on the motorway. You will know you're driving a diesel at low speeds around town but it moves up through the gears smoothly and settles down well to a cruise. Diesel is fast disappearing from the compact SUV segment, so the Tiguan is one of the last still offering a decent diesel.
Elsewhere, the Tiguan proves to be a good all-rounder with its smooth and agile handling, refinement and comfort, but the R Line’s large wheels have a tendency to ride harshly over imperfections in the road surface. There’s also quite a bit of road noise at high speeds on the motorway.
All in all, the Tiguan has gotten quite expensive over the years but so have many of its rivals. It is a brilliant allrounder and its familiar blend of space, comfort and quality still make it a very sensible buy. n
Interior
Mick’s charity soccer tournament raises over €570 for St. Vincent de Paul
CIE Promotions is proud to announce that it raised over €570 for St. Vincent de Paul from its recent soccer tourmant held in Enniscorthy at the Shamrock Rovers complex. The founder of CIE Promotions, Mick Abidoye, was very pleased with the positive atmosphere on the day and despite the weather challenges, the tournament was a great success.
Team Darragh, led by Dublin-based content creator Darragh, emerged victorious and became the first CIE champions of the charity football tournament. Team Mick Jnr were the runners-up, losing 2-0 in the final. Team Craig Cooney secured third place by winning the shield, while Team Bailey narrowly missed out, finishing as runners-up for the shield.
Mick and CIE Promotions are excited about the possibility of making this an annual event in Enniscorthy, Mick's hometown. Mick is so thankful to everyone who participated and supported this cause.
Mick would like to extend his gratitude to Shamrocks Rovers for the use of their astroturf facilities and to Danut Romanescu, the well-known Wexford League referee, for officiating the games. Special thanks to the event’s main sponsor, Quirky Barbers, for their generous support, as well as to the White House Pub for hosting the raffle after the tournament. And Mick extends a heartfelt ‘thank you’ also to Nicky Murphy for all his contribution to the event.
Corin James, a distinguished artist based in New Ross, attended the CIE Charity Football Tournament in Enniscorthy and presented a custom art piece to Mick Abidoye to mark the occasion. n
Mick Abidoye
Festy Ebosele presents a signed jersey for the raffle. L-R: Nicky Murphy, Festy Ebosele, Mick Abodoye.
Corin James presents a custom art piece to Mick Abidoye.
Mick Abidoye presents Chanelle Kenny, winner of the raffle, with the signed jersey.
Edermine Ferry launches new boat in memory of Nim Dunne R.I.P.
Last month Edermine Ferry Rowing Club launched their new cot ‘The Legacy’ in memory of Nim Dunne R.I.P., founding member of the club. The boat was built by young members of the club mentored by the older members and was government funded under Sláintecare Healthy Communities funding. The launch was attended by a large number of club members and local Councillors. n
Black jerseys: Team Mick. White jerseys: Team Darragh. Green jerseys: Team Craig Cooney. Blue jerseys: Team Bailey.
SPORTING EXHIBITION CONTINUES IN ENNISCORTHY CASTLE...
THEIR FINEST HOUR is a major exhibition celebrating the sporting achievements of the county's greatest sportspeople. The exhibition is running in Enniscorthy Castle until September this year. Manager Mico Hassett and the Castle staff are to be complimented for their extensive research and hard work in putting it all together.
The exhibition covers the great sporting traditions of the county and is a must-see for locals and visitors alike.
At the opening of the exhibition, Liam Spratt spoke about the 51 GAA clubs in the county and the fact that we have the second biggest schoolboy soccer league in the country, but what really impresses him is the 'diversity of sports' available all round what he called 'this marvellous sporting county' – a county of which we should all be proud.
This is a wonderful exhibition, and viewing is highly recommended. n
Top left: Enniscorthy Castle Manager Mico Hassett with Maria Nolan.
Left: John Browne, Jim Byrne, Cllr Aidan Browne.
Below left: Cllr Jackser Owens, Michelle O’Neill.
Below: Enniscorthy Castle Manager Mico Hassett with staff member Paul Byrne.
Wexford Senior Championships
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE
OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER
PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Enniscorthy girls picked for Leinster
Well done to Enniscorthy Rugby Club's Bobbi Cahill and Eva Nolan who recently lined out with the Leinster U18 girls team playing against a touring American team called The Eagles and were winners on the day with a final score of 34-7. The girls were also picked to travel with the team to Wales the following week.
Well done to Aoife Wafer and Katie Whelan, along with Molly Boyne, who have been named in the Leinster squad for 2024. Aoife’s sister Orla Wafer has also been named as a development player.
Great to see so many Enniscorthy women playing rugby at the highest level. n
Above: At the Co. Wexford Senior Tennis Championships at Hillbrook Lawn Tennis Club, Enniscorthy, on 20th July 2024, Ashley Leacy and Sinead Owens, Hillbrook LTC, winners of the doubles division D final with John Dempsey, Club President, in the centre. Below: Emil Klosinski and Tom McGrath, Wexford Boat and Tennis Club, winners of mens doubles division 2 with cup sponsor Noel Devereux.
Bobbi Cahill and Eva Nolan
Mick Murphy 5k in Ferns
5th July 2024
Jacqueline O’Connor and Nicole Moorehouse who finished third.
Above right: Aidan O’Brien, Ray Byrne and Josh Rigley.
Left:
Dermot Foley, Michael Kinsella, Brian Smyth and Darren O’Grady.
Right: Graham Rothwell and Sarah Grary.
Below left: Ryan and Martina and Amy Roche and Hannah Leacy.
Right: Patrick and Colette Leacy.
Bottom left: Mary Byrne and Tommy McElwain.
Bottom centre: Janette and Peter Mulvanery and Mick Redmond.
Bottom right: Thomas Kavanagh.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE
The season concludes at Bree Billiards and Snooker Club
The club concluded the season back in June, with John Bolger and Aidan Cullen going head to head in the final of the inaugural ‘Paddy Long Shield’ snooker tournament.
John (0) won the first frame convincingly. Aidan (-10) took the 2nd on the pink. Aidan went 2-1 up, knocking in a 25 break along the way in the 3rd frame. John opened up a good lead in the 4th and levelled the match at 2-2.
So, it was all to play for in the 5th and final frame. It went right to the wire, with John potting the pink to leave a black ball game. After some good safety play by both players, Aidan claimed the frame and the match by potting a long black, to take the title on a 3-2 scoreline.
Beaten semi-finalists were Craig Kenny (0) and John Wilson (-5).
Aidan Cullen also claimed the highest break award, compiling 52 in the semifinal against Craig.
The club were honoured to have Paddy Long's nephew Vincent and his family present on the night. Vincent presented the shield to Aidan, and all present shared fond memories of the late Paddy, a proficient and valued player of both billiards and snooker with the club for many years.
The club table has recently been given
an upgrade. Once the tournaments had come to a close for the season, the services of the skilled Abban Reddy were employed to fit a new slate bed and cushions. Some much needed club members were on hand for the heavy lifting on the day. The result is a faster table
which should serve the club well over the coming years.
The new season will begin in early September, with the AGM to be held prior to play commencing.
– Pat Bolger P.R.O.
Vincent Long with the Paddy Long Shield, with runner-up John Bolger (right) and winner Aidan Cullen (left).
WELL DONE TO THE TEAM FROM 'SPORTS ACTIVE' IN WEXFORD COUNTY COUNCIL FOR PERSISTING WITH THE FIRST OF THEIR COUNTYWIDE 'FUN IN THE SUN' DAYS AT THE SPORTS HUB IN ENNISCORTHY ON 24TH JULY 2024 DESPITE THE WET WEATHER. IT WAS GREAT TO SEE THE KIDS NOT LETTING THE RAIN DAMPEN THEIR SPIRITS. THE PARTICIPANTS ENJOYED TASTER SESSIONS OF SOCCER, GAA, RUGBY, CRICKET, KICKBOXING, RUNNING AND TEAMWORK GAMES.
IN TOTAL THERE WERE SEVEN FREE 'FUN IN THE SUN’ DAYS HELD ALL ACROSS CO. WEXFORD AT THE END OF JULY.
Fun in the Rain!
Clohamon Heritage Weekend, 13th and 14th July 2024. Above left: Eilish Kavanagh at the Old Bog Cottage storytelling house at the Clohamon Heritage Weekend. Above right: Ian Kidd and Barry Lacey. Below left: Enniscorthy re-enactors dressed up and mingling. Below right: Save Mount Leinster volunteers Mary Kinsella and Sarah Ann Austin. All Pics by Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy.
Above left: Enjoying a cuppa in the Old Bog Cottage. Above right: Peeping in the window at the Old Bog Cottage. Below left: Community Fire Safety – Bunclody fire station represented by Ivan Walker (firefighter) and Aaron Carthy (driver-mechanic).
Below right: John Joe Murphy (firefighter) and Liam Byrne (firefighter). All pics by Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy.
Pic: Maria Nolan. Pic: Maria Nolan.
Singing in the rain at the Clohamon Heritage Fair
13th
& 14th July 2024.
Words & pics by Maria Nolan.
Enniscorthy Re-enactors embraced the 1920s for the annual Clohamon Vintage Heritage Fair recently enjoying the most delicious bacon and cabbage from the Old Bog Cottage, a multiplicity of stalls and beautifully conditioned vintage cars and equipment and excellent entertainment by the very popular Gavin Gribben that even the odd heavy shower failed to dampen as punters danced and sang in the rain watched by crowds of spectators some with umbrellas and more without – only in Ireland!
With steam engines and old-fashioned Punch & Judy Show the Clohamon Vintage Heritage Fair is a testament to times past and the period attire of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society certainly added to the occasion as I have to say did the bacon and cabbage dinners, with punters nearly licking their plates. It seems no matter how advanced and technical we become we are still very much attracted by the past and well done to the organising committee for giving us a chance to embrace and enjoy it. n
Right: Maria Nolan and Tom Boland enjoying the vintage machinery on display. Below: Some of the Enniscorthy re-enactors at the Fair.
Wexford Heritage Week will take place in County Wexford between 17th and 25th August this year. To check out all the events happening around the county, see: https://www.heritageweek.ie/eventlistings?q=wexford#listings n
Take a guided walking tour in the Ancient Capital of Leinster and hear stories of characters and events that changed the course of Irish history. To pre-book a guided tour, email: medievalfernsexperience@fernsvillage.ie n
Swift work in Enniscorthy
The endangered Swift bird species has been given a recent boost thanks to Enniscorthy Library and Enniscorthy Tidy Towns with considerable help from the local Men's Shed, Swift Conservation Ireland, Wexford Barn Owl Project, Wexford County Council, Power Plant Hire, CE scheme and not to mention the aptly named Swift Developments (Ger Larkin and his team) who helped install 10 swift boxes on the front of Enniscorthy Library. n
Bunclody trough
Congratulation n
What a lovely addition to the landscape of the Square in Bunclody. The granite trough was originally donated to the town in 1998 by Bernie Deane originally from Deane’s Pub which was on the site of Boyle Sports on Main Street.
Her daughters Maureen and Majella still do great work with the Tidy Towns. So it’s fitting that the trough has returned to a place of prominence in her memory.
Well done to all the volunteers involved with this project and to Francis Reck for his kind sponsorship of the pump. n
This project was first muted by Mark Stanely (RIP) who gave a lot of expert advice, with helpful advice also received from Lynda Huxley in Swift Conservation Ireland, and from Alan Poole too.
Swift numbers are unfortunatatly declining. They love to nest in nooks and crannies, old eves and old stonework. It is hoped this innovative Enniscorthy project will help reverse the decline in local swift numbers. n
Sustainable Enniscorthy repair cafe
Sustainable Enniscorthy has successfully hosted three repair cafés and are excited for the next one this autumn!
What is a Repair Café?
Repair cafés are social, community events where volunteer repairers fix items brought in by the public, such as clothing and household goods. This is a key circular economy action, helping to extend the life of products and reduce waste.
Benefits:
Eco-friendly: Keeps items out of landfills.
Cost-effective: Saves money by repairing instead of buying new.
Interested in learning more about Repair Cafés worldwide? Sign up for the International Repair Café newsletter or follow them on their website www.repaircafe.org, Facebook ‘Repair Café International’, or Instagram @repaircafefoundation n
Enjoying a well deserved cuppa
Making Enniscorthy clean and green
Do you have a few hours to spare a month? Find yourself bored mid week evenings or at the weekend? Want to make your town a better place? Please contact Enniscorthy Tidy Towns: https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorth yTidyTown Email: enniscorthytt@gmail.com
At this time of the year the group meets up every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday and the work they do is amazing, even tidying up the benches along the Country Walk by cutting back the vegeration so the benches can be used while enjoying the views.
We are now into judging season for the national Tidy Towns awards so the group is appealing to everyone to play their part in keeping the town clean and green. n
THE 'SLANEY NEWS' WAS DELIGHTED TO MEET UP RECENTLY WITH SOME OF THE ENNISCORTHY TIDY TOWNS GROUP AS THEY ENJOYED A WELL DESERVED CUPPA LAST MONTH IN CAFE 98 IN THE NATIONAL 1798 REBELLION CENTRE.
The multi-award-winning group's latest achievement was first prize in the Wexford County Council 'Snap into Action' awards 2024, winning the Community Group competition and receiving a prize of €500.
Jonathon Hughes, Chairperson of Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, was delighted to accept the award from Cllr Pip Breen (Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council), saying: “We are building something special in Enniscorthy thanks to our wonderful volunteers. Shout out also to GoPaddle.ie and Know-How Media Agency, also to the Local Authority Waters Programme.” n
Discover the magic of gardening
ONE OF THE BRILLIANT NEW GROUPS WORKING TO MAKE ENNISCORTHY A BETTER TOWN IS THE ENNISCORTHY COMMUNITY ALLIANCE.
The Alliance has launched a great new Gardening course (see graphic attached) for young people aged 15-20. The details are all on the Alliance website https://www.enniscorthycommunityalliance.org/ and booking is at the link below: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/youthsummer-gardening-course-registration941428707607?aff=oddtdtcreator n
Bringing colour to the town
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns has been successful in obtaining grant funding to link up with a local artist and secondary school to bring colour to utility boxes around the town.
Draft artwork will be submitted to Enniscorthy Municipal District for approval before this colourful project proceeds. n
A great new photography competition
Sustainable Enniscorthy has launched a new ‘Through Your Lens Photography Competition’.
This is your chance to capture the beauty of our town and be in with a chance to win one of three €20 vouchers for Kilcannon Garden Centre!
Categories:
1. Wildlife in the City 2. Charming Neighbourhoods 3. Green at Heart
How to Enter:
1. Post your photo on Facebook or Instagram.
2. Tag @SustainableEnniscorthy on Facebook or @enniscorthysus on Instagram.
Deadline: October 1st. Must be 18+ to enter.
Good luck, and happy snapping! n
Slaney environment
Community Centres funding
The Community Centres Investment Fund 2024 is the largest ever capital investment in Ireland’s Community Centres. It provides funding for investments in Community Centres in order that these vital services remain useable, accessible, and safe and continue to meet the needs of the community into the future.
Community organisations will be supported with grants of between €10,000 - €100,000 to develop and enhance their existing community facilities. A wide range of works are eligible for funding including refurbishment of kitchens & toilets, upgrades to windows & doors, energy efficiency upgrades and improving access for people with disabilities.
Full details are available here: https://www.gov.ie/en/pressrelease/b2827-minister-humphreys-announces-20millioncommunity-centre-investment-fund/
Interested groups should now register as “users” here: https://myportal.pobal.ie/SignIn?ReturnUrl=%2F The application process is now open and closes on 29th August 2024. n
€669,000
allocated to 16 Wexford communities for climate action Environmental sustainability
Wexford County Council and the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications have announced the applications that were successful in securing funding under the Community Climate Action Programme. The successful applications are spread across all five municipal districts in the County.
The aim of the Programme is to support and empower communities to take direct climate action and build low carbon, sustainable communities which help to contribute to national climate and energy targets.
Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr. Pip Breen, in welcoming the allocation of funding, said, “The Community Climate Action Programme provides practical support to community groups to begin their climate action journey and harnesses the positivity and enthusiasm that exists to create a more sustainable future for all.”
Director of Services, Carolyne Godkin, added, “This funding provides a great
opportunity for communities to take direct climate action, while also reducing their energy bills and facilitates new and exciting opportunities such as grow your own, biodiversity enhancement and active travel.”
According to Climate Action Co-ordinator, Frank Burke, the groups will be supported by the Climate Action Team to successfully deliver on the wide range of exciting projects.
A second round of funding is expected in 2025 and any groups interested in formulating their own climate action ambitions can contact Clinton Donovan, Community Climate Action Officer, by emailing climateaction@wexfordcoco.ie
The allocations to groups in County Wexford are as follows:
Yola Hedge School
€12,835.51.
St Martins GAA Club
€19,333.30. Enniscorthy Community Allotments €19,393.78.
12th Wexford Scouts Horeswood
€20,000.00.
Buffers Alley GAA Club
€18,073.25.
Kilanerin Ballyfad Community Dev. Assoc. €49,974.54.
Glynn Barntown GAA Club €49,066.40.
Our Lady's Island Community Dev. Co. €33,068.65.
Marshalstown/Castledockrell GAA Club €21,551.76.
New Ross Rugby Football Club €33,504.40.
Rosslare Community Development Assoc. €33,533.55.
Bannow Ballymitty GAA Club €40,287.23.
South West Wexford Family Resource Centre €84,598.40.
Naomh Eanna GAA Club €72,011.83.
Reachability Enniscorthy (Kilcannon) €89,380.00.
Faythe Harriers Hurling & Camogie Club €72,387.40. n
Viral videos promote Enniscorthy and its tidy towns group
Thanks to recent online videos by 2FM celebrity Fionnuala Moran, the work of Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, local schools, community groups and businesses has gone viral on TikTok and Instagram.
SuperValu, the proud sponsors of the Tidy Towns competition, linked in with Ms. Moran to visit the town and meet the local Tidy Towns group to highlight the excellent work being carried out to boost biodiversity, fight litter and promote sustainability.
Ms Moran, a journalist, media presenter, and social media celebrity, posted two videos showcasing Enniscorthy which have since gone viral with well over 200,000 views! In the short clips she highlighted projects and collaborations the local Tidy Towns group had completed including bird boxes on the library, native tree planting with Enniscorthy Community College, actions for pollinators, and a kayak clean-up of the Slaney completed in April.
A spokesperson for Enniscorthy Tidy Towns said: “We were delighted to welcome Fionnuala to Enniscorthy. She superbly highlighted the excellent work volunteers and community groups are doing to make Enniscorthy a cleaner and greener town. A big thanks to our volunteers, schools, community groups, businesses, and our local Pettitt’s SuperValu for the continued collaboration and support.”
The Tidy Towns group has collaborated with Enniscorthy Men’s Shed, Enniscorthy Library, Enniscorthy Community College, Coláiste Bríde, Go Paddle, Sustainable Enniscorthy, and Slaney Search and Rescue on recent projects with much more actions planned for the months ahead.
The group is hoping to grow interest with younger volunteers to bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm to the group. If you are interested in getting involved, contact the group on TikTok, Instagram or Facebook.
https://vm.tiktok.com/ZGeWSYBWL/ https://vm.tiktok.com/ZGeWS1QPJ/ https://www.instagram.com/reel/C9uWkAyKp_W/?igsh=MT djMHI3ZTR0azZteA== n
Garden competition
Wexford Family Scoops Prize in 2024 Woodie's Budding Gardeners Competition
A Wexford family from Greenlake, Forth Commons, has scooped a prize in this year's Woodie's Budding Gardeners competition. The Connolly family (pictured) were announced as runners-up in this year’s Woodie’s Budding Gardeners competition taking home a €250 Woodie's gift card.
Now in its fourth year, the Woodie’s Budding Gardeners campaign encourages children across Ireland to flex their green fingers by taking on an exciting garden project at home or in school while learning about the importance of plants along the way. n
Wexford Macra’s new committee
On Thursday 4th July Wexford Macra held its 2024 AGM. Wexford Macra would like to thank everyone who attended saying, ‘It was fantastic to see such a great turnout and a real testament to the strength of Wexford Macra.’
The organisers would like to thank Macra President Elaine Houlihan and Leinster Vice-President Patrick Jordon for their attendance on the night, and of course their thanks to Training and Development Officer Gráinne Ní Cheallaigh for her work over the last 12 months.
All outgoing officers devoted their time, effort, and dedication while on the committee and it is well and truly appreciated.
The very best of luck to the newly elected committee as they move into position for the new Macra year ahead. The new committee is as follows:
President: Ronan Finn, Kilrush Askamore Ferns.
Chairperson: Thomas Devereux, Kilmuckridge.
Secretary: Rebecca Banville, Ramsgrange.
Treasurer: Róisín Byrne, Kilmuckridge.
PRO: Sinéad Kinsella, Bree.
Competitions: Clíona O’Leary, Kilmuckridge, and Sarah Byrne, Bree. Ag Affairs & YFDG: Conor Doran, Camolin.
Rural Youth: Seán O’Brien, Kilmuckridge. Sports & Social: Sara Steacy, Kilmuckridge, and Mariah Boland, Kilrush Askamore Ferns.
Recruitment & Development Officers:
Theresa Shanahan, Kilmuckridge. Lucy McCarthy, Bree. Tom Wheeler, Camolin. Richard Devereux, Kilmuckridge. Michael Fortuene, Kilrush Askamore Ferns. Kelly Duffin, Ramsgrange.
Macra is a rural youth organisation and is open to all between the ages of 17-40.
Its mission is to empower its members by offering new opportunities and experiences for development, connection and adventure to encourage them to be the person they want to be so they can learn, grow and flourish.
Wexford Macra consists of five clubs: Bree, Camolin, Kilmuckridge, Kilrush Askamore Ferns, and Ramsgrange.
If you would like to find out more about Macra in your area you can contact Tom Devereux, County Chairperson, on 087 1934489, or find out more on Facebook or Instagram (@wexfordmacra_). n
