Slaney News, Issue 172, September 2024

Sla ney News

Co. wexford for the laSt 14 yearS

First day at school at Carraig Briste Early Years, Enniscorthy, on 28th August, Aodhan, Declan and Lorraine.

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

Meánscoil Gharman Enniscorthy

Graduation Ball in the Riverbank House Hotel, Wexford, 20th August 2024. Hazel Hickey, Kara Peoples and Aoife Lyng.

Haven Kavanagh’s Pharmacy

First day at school at Carraig Briste Early Years on 28th August, Arthur and Josh, proprietor Orlagh and pet dog Harvey.

Half Price on Sunglasses While Stocks Last!

Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, Y21 W5T1 Tel: 053 92 33547  Email: info@fmclaw.ie DUFFRY HILL, ENNISCORTHY. T: (053) 9234660.

Welcome to the September issue of the Slaney News. This issue covers lots of what’s happening around Enniscorthy and Co. Wexford and comes out on a day when two very important special meetings of Enniscorthy Municipal District are taking place (3rd September). The first is dealing with “the housing supply for Enniscorthy Municipal District” and reflects the ongoing concern of Enniscorthy’s Councillors that not enough social housing is being constructed/pro vided by Wexford Co. Council in the Enniscorthy area. The second meeting is dealing with the proposed Enniscorthy Town Centre First Plan which is due to be voted on by Wexford County Council shortly but which has generated strong opposition from many of the town’s retailers and service providers, and their customers, largely due to the proposed loss of 104 town-centre parking spaces and likely traffic problems due to new traffic flows in town particularly at the Barrack Street junction with the Island Road. The outcome of these two meetings will have a big bearing on these crucial issues. We will keep our readers updated on our popular ‘Slaney News’ Facebook page.

Enniscorthy is often referred to as “Ireland’s Festival Town” and September certainly proves that point. Not one, but three festivals this month! The Blackstairs Blues Festival, The Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival, and the Enniscorthy Flower Festival are all covered on our pages this month, so keep reading!

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 12,700 Followers. And, of course, if you like our format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you

– Frank Corcoran

ACTIVE START PROGRAM

12:30PM 4-6 YEAR OLDS 1:30PM 6-8 YEAR OLDS

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

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).

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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.

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TOWN CENTRE FIRST PLANS UPDATES...

An important special meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District is taking place today (3rd September) to discuss the Enniscorthy Town Centre First Plan and what can be done to make it more acceptable to a large number of businesses in the town who fear the planned removal of 104 parking spaces in the town centre will be disasterous for them and their valued customers. We will carry news of that crucial meeting on the Slaney News Facebook page.

Meanwhile, Wexford County Council is proceeding with establishing Town Centre First Teams in Wexford town, Taghmon, Castlebridge and Bunclody.

Bunclody has been allocated €10,000 towards the establishment of its Town Centre First Team, under measure 1 of the 2024 Town Centre First suite of supports.

Town Centre First aims to create towns that function as viable, vibrant and attractive locations for people to live, work and visit. It supports towns to function as the service, social, cultural and recreational hub for the local community, and is delivered by local authorities in partnership with communities.

To ensure that as broad a representation as possible sits on the Bunclody Town Centre First Team, Wexford County Council hosted a drop-in information session in St Aidan's Hall, Bunclody, on Monday 2nd September, from 2pm to 6pm, looking for local people to express an interest in serving on the Bunclody Town Team.

Town Regeneration Officer with Wexford County Council Mick McCormack was on hand to host information briefings on the hour and to meet and answer questions from anyone who called to the event. It is hoped that all the sectors/groups within and around Bunclody will express an interest in sitting on this new Town Centre First Team.

Chair of the Bunclody Town Centre First Team Cllr. Barbara-Anne Murphy.

Town Teams are typically made up of reps from business, community groups, residents, tourism groups, An Garda Siochana, charities, social enterprises, sports organisations, cultural groups, voluntary groups, Chamber of Commerce, retailers, developers, and educational facilities. Each town however is different and it is considered important that the Team reflects the town.

Welcoming the development, Chair of the Bunclody Town Centre First Team Cllr. Barbara-Anne Murphy said, ‘I am looking forward to working closely with the Bunclody community and the new Town Team in starting a process that will strengthen Bunclody Town Centre and enhance the lives of the residents of Bunclody and surrounding areas. This is a great opportunity for Bunclody and I encourage as many groups and people as possible to engage with the process.’ n

Bringing Japan to En

Enniscorthy resident Ahmad Musa hails originally from Malaysia where he worked as a young chef in a number of Japanese restaurants. Some years go he came to Ireland to work in a Japanese restaurant here, and now having accumulated 12 years of dedicated experience as a Japanese food chef he has set up his first restaurant in Ireland based in Enniscorthy using authentic ingredients and special cooking techniques to bring out the amazing natural flavours of his Japanese and Asian food.

Called ‘ai by Ahmad’, where ‘ai’ means ‘love’ in Japanese, the restaurant symbolises Ahmad’s love for Japanese and Asian cuisine, and the good news is that he is now sharing all that love in Enniscorthy!!!

Situated in Templeshannon, almost opposite Treacys Hotel, Ahmad’s restaurant can cater for up to 20 diners in its cosy and atmospheric interior, and also offers its full menu as a takeaway option. A delivery service will be added soon. For bookings or takeaways, tel: 053 9201420, 087 7887013.

The opening hours are: Tuesday–Friday, 4pm to 10pm. Saturday: 12.30pm to 10pm. The restaurant is closed on Sundays and Mondays, but Ahmad plans to use those two days to run Japanese cooking classes in the near future.

Ahmad is supported in his restaurant by an experienced team including General Manager Paul O’Brien, and front of house staff Sean and Alex, both from Enniscorthy.

Every year Ahmad enters the Panel of Chefs of Ireland annual competition (https://www.chefsofireland.ie) and an impressive haul of medals adorns one of the walls of his Enniscorthy restaurant which caters for all tastes being vegan-friendly, halal-friendly, and childfriendly.

Exclusive takeaway offer – every 10th meal is FREE based on the average of your previous orders. And for dine-in customers, there is a loyalty card available which gives a FREE STARTER on your 10th visit. Be sure to get it stamped every time you visit.

And for a limited time only, one can dine-in for the same price as takeaway, so hurry to take advantage of this great opening offer and embark on a culinary journey you simply won’t forget.

ai by Ahmad, 2 Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, Y21 D560 Tel: 053 9201420, 087 7887013. Facebook: ‘Ai by ahmad Enniscorthy’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aibyahmadenniscorthy/ n

Our photos show...

Left: Ahmad with General Manager Paul O’Brien checking out the menu.

Top right: The team at ‘ai by Ahmad’ including Ahmad, Paul, Alex and Sean.

Right: Ahmad with his family Akma, Adel and Aura.

nniscorthy with love!

ENNISCORTHY’S AWARD-WINNING AHMAD

JACOB TWOMEY SOLICITORS AND

Jacob and Twomey Solicitors have particular experience in the fields of employment law, personal injury* litigation, medical negligence and commercial/corporate activities. We pride ourselves on providing the highest quality of legal advice with clarity, empathy and, at all times, with the best interests of our clients in mind.

Bob Jacob has wide-ranging expertise in the areas of personal injuries, civil litigation and employment law. He has considerable experience in pursuing and defending cases before the Circuit Court and High Court, with a focus on such issues as personal injuries and commercial litigation. Bob holds a diploma in civil litigation; the specialist qualification in the area of personal injury litigation in Ireland awarded by the Law Society of Ireland.

Adrian Twomey practises exclusively in the field of employment law and has advised and represented a wide-range of multinational and Irish employers as well as employees in all sectors. He regularly appears before the Workplace Relations Commission and Labour Court as well as in the Civil Courts.

Adrian has lectured on employment law and related subject areas at the Law Society, National College of Ireland, the Smurfit School of Business and elsewhere. He is described as one of the world’s leading lawyers for business by the Who’s Who Legal.

Planning for Christmas in Enniscorthy

Last week, the elves, local children and Enniscorthy Municipal District Cathaoirleach Aidan Browne gathered in Christmas jumpers at The National 1798 Rebellion Centre where Santa's Enchanted Christmas Experience was officially launched. See full story on page 16.

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.

Opening Times: Garden Centre: Monday to Saturday 9.00am – 5.00pm, Sunday: Closed. Restaurant: Monday to Saturday 9.00am – 5.00pm, Sunday: Closed.

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

Exciting opportunities at Home Instead’s hiring week in Wexford

Home instead, Ireland’s leading home care provider, is delighted to announce the creation of 1,000 new Professional CAREGiver roles to be filled at its upcoming National Hiring Week, taking place from Monday 2nd-Friday 6th September.

Home Instead currently provides compassionate, relationship-based care to upwards of 8,000 older adults throughout the country, employing a team of nearly 4,000 fully-trained Professional CAREGivers to support its services. CAREGivers are part of a dedicated care team who have extensive caregiving experience, focus on the person first and create care plans to enhance quality of life.

Martin Murphy, General Manager at Home Instead Wexford, says, “Hiring Week, now in its third year, is a nationwide initiative to reach out and connect with those people who are interested in starting a career in care, and in doing so make a real difference to the lives of ageing adults in their local communities and beyond. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for Home Instead to highlight what makes us an employer of choice in the home care sector, for example we offer best-in-class training, career progression opportunities, quality compliance and both recognise and celebrate the stellar contributions of our wonderful CAREGivers.”

About Home Instead:

Home Instead hires people who embody the values of kindness, dignity and respect as this is how all those it cares for are treated. As a Home Instead

CAREGiver you will receive researchbased, practical training through Home Instead’s in-house Home Care Professionals Academy which ensures each new CAREGiver has the skills and confidence to perform their role effectively.

Martin continues, “Whether you’re inter-

Established in Ireland in 2005, Home Instead is the country’s largest private provider of home care services. It has 26 offices around Ireland, employing nearly 4,000 CAREGivers and serving over 8,000 clients.

Home Instead is an approved provider of HSE Home Support Services in all nine Community Health Organisations in the country, meaning that people aged over 65 can choose Home Instead for their non-medical home care services. It also serves a large and growing client base who avail of private home care services to help them continue to live an independent life at home.

These services include companionship, meal preparation, light housework, personal care, dementia care and more.

Home Instead is committed to delivering the highest standards of care services and it has robust clinical governance, HR and training practices in place to ensure this.

ested in full-time work or part-time hours that fit around your schedule, there’s an opportunity for you with Home Instead. Home Instead Hiring Week offers an excellent opportunity to meet your local team and explore all the amazing benefits a career in care can offer. We encourage anyone who has a passion for care to get in touch and join us at our Hiring Week events.”

Discover a meaningful career in care with Home Instead. For event details and career opportunities, visit HomeInstead.ie/Hiring-Week

HIRING EVENTS WILL TAKE PLACE IN WEXFORD ON:

Tuesday 3rd, Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, from 12:00-14:00.

Wednesday 4th, Brandon House Hotel, New Ross, from 12:00-14:00.

Thursday 5th, Gorey Shopping Centre, from 12:00-14:00.

Friday 6th, UFU Coffee, Wexford Town, from 14:00-16:00. n

ADULT EDUCATION IN GOREY

Santa is already planning his annual visit to Enniscorthy

Last week, the elves, local children, and Enniscorthy Municipal District Cathaoirleach Aidan Browne gathered in Christmas jumpers at The National 1798 Rebellion Centre where Santa's Enchanted Christmas Experience was officially launched.

Tickets are now on sale for this magical family event, which will transform the historic venue into a winter wonderland filled with festive cheer and memorable moments.

Santa’s Enchanted Christmas Experience will run throughout the entire month of December, offering families a unique opportunity to step into a world of holiday magic. Children of all ages will have the chance to meet Santa Claus in his enchanting grotto, embark on a festive journey through the Christmas scenes, and enjoy interactive Christmas activities designed to delight and entertain.

Once again this year, Santa’s Enchanted

Ticket Sales Now Open for Santa’s Enchanted Christmas Experience at The 1798 National Rebellion Centre Enniscorthy... BOOK ONLINE NOW: www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie

Christmas Experience will run weekly sensory-friendly days. These dedicated days are designed for children with sensory needs and small babies, ensuring that every child can fully enjoy the magic of Christmas in a comfortable and welcoming environment. With one family per time slot, the Sensory Family Visit has been specially designed and adapted for children with additional needs – a shorter tour, but with plenty of photo opportunities for the whole family, and reduced sound & light stimulation. There will be no flashing lights and no background music, just a magical Christmas wonderland with an elf guide, Mrs. Claus and Santa himself too!

Mico Hassett, Manager of the The Na-

tional 1798 Rebellion Centre, expressed her excitement for the upcoming event, commenting: “We are thrilled to launch Santa’s Enchanted Christmas Experience. For many years this event has become a cherished tradition in our community, and we’ve worked hard to make it even more magical this year. The sensory-friendly days are an important addition, and we hope they will make this Christmas experience accessible to all families.” With free on-site parking, delicious festive treats from Cafe 98 and the same great team from Rathnure Pantomime Society along with local actors and entertainers on board, this year at Santa’s Enchanted Christmas is set to bigger and better than ever.

Tickets for Santa’s Enchanted Christmas Experience are available now online at www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie

Event organisers advise booking early due to high demand. So don’t miss out on this magical Christmas experience that promises to create memories to last a lifetime!

4th - 23rd December

SNIPPETS...

ENNISCORTHY GOSPEL CHOIR

It's that time of the year again! Rehearsals for 2024/2025 will begin this Wednesday 4th September at 8pm in the IFA Centre in Enniscorthy. New members welcome!

FESTY ON THE MOVE

Watford have announced the signing of Enniscorthy’s Republic of Ireland international Festy Ebosele on a seasonlong loan from Italian Serie A side Udinese. Festy played for his local club Moyne Rangers before moving to Bray Wanderers and then, at 16, he joined Derby County making 38 appearances, before a transfer to Udinese in 2022 where he played 36 times over two seasons.

ENNISCORTHY CBS STUDENT SECURES MAXIMUM 625 POINTS

Congrats to 17-year-old Mohammed Mohiuddin Hossain, a student at Enniscorthy CBS for the last five years, who received 625 points in this year's Leaving Certificate. Mohammed now plans to study Computer Science at Trinity College this September, which he is very excited about “... because I have a particular interest in mathematics, computers and artificial intelligence and how they can be used in society. I also really enjoy programming and using software to solve real world problems." Read the full story on the ‘Slaney News’ Facebook page. 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

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-

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.

Slaney Sharks news...

Trials for new members for Slaney Sharks Swim Club will be on Friday 6th and Friday 13th of September at 6pm at the Waterfront Pool in Enniscorthy.

Please contact slaneysharksswimclub@gmail. com or 086 6056448 for further information.

Check out ‘Slaney Sharks Swim Club’ on Facebook for updates.

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

A monthly column by GreenTechHQ

“Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.” – Anthony J. D’Angelo.

GreenTechHQ envisions a future where Ireland's South East is recognised as a national and international leader in promoting sustainability innovation and growth.

By having a world-class venue with cuttingedge green technology companies, our eco-system aims to drive transformative environmental and economic impact and create worthwhile and future-driven jobs across the South East.

Through our tailored programmes and strategic partnerships, we will cultivate a community that not only incubates new ventures, scales local businesses but also champions sustainable development, contributing significantly to Ireland's carbon neutrality goals and enhancing regional prosperity.

SAVE THE DATE...

A full schedule of events are being held at GreentechHQ over the next few months and more to add later!

If you would like to book a seat please do so by emailing admin@greentechhq.com and write the name of the event in the subject line.

LINE-UP...

19th September: COMMIT 2 LEAD with Enda McNulty and GreenTechHQ partners sharing session with Enterprise Ireland and Skillnet Innovation Exchange

25th September: Southeast Sustainability Cluster Meeting with Enda Buckley and hashtag#DavidRyan from SETU Extended Campus

27th September: A day of AI for Business

€299, 6 modules course, everything you will need to know practically and hands on full day’s course with John Curry from 9am to 4pm, includes lunch and refreshing bites.

3rd October: Toys 4 Engineers at SETU Extended Campus. Discover how hashtag#GreenTech HQ is driving innovation in sustainable engineering as part of the Waterford Chamber at the Toys 4 Engineers and explore the future of eco-friendly technologies!

16th October: Skillnet Innovation Exchange Scale Up Roadshow Topics covered: Key Business Supports / Strategies for success / Driving innovation.

7th November: Business Workshop – Sales Strategizing for Success with Dr. Maria Coakley. This free B2B training is perfect for those looking to enhance their sales strategies and build strong client relationships. n

An army of a thousand volunteers from all over County Wexford kept hundreds of thousands of singers, musicians, dancers, performers and ordinary uplifted for the five days of the biggest and most successful Fleadh Cheoil experience ever. An estimated 650,000 people from all over the world attended.

The volunteers, ‘working mainly behind the scenes,’ made sure that performers and props were in place, seats organised, musical instruments arranged, doors opened and closed, urgent messages run, questions answered from the Press there from Dublin, Europe and America, and young and old watched, protected and helped.

They were the social glue that kept it all together and they were the lubricant that kept the parts of the huge Fleadh machine moving.

Many of the volunteers had left their homes early in the morning each day, leaving aside their work and workday uniforms, and donned their distinctive bright yellow tee shirts with ‘Volunteer –Here to Help ‘across their chests.

All classes working with each other County Council workers and officials, captains of industry, office workers, business leaders, big farmers and small farmers, worked alongside neighbours of all social classes.

Their common goal was to celebrate and enhance national culture and heritage and the good of the county. They wanted

Raise your fiddles Cheoil Volunteers

Wexford’s ‘Bright-Yellow Army’ of 1,000 kept 650,000 visitors

to make sure that Wexford town became the most memorable and most enjoyable experience for everybody.

One outcome will be a local economic benefit of millions of euro. Their reward was that even if the sun didn’t shine, the music and singing and fun flowed through the streets and pubs, hotels and also the events held at almost every corner.

A question from one volunteer: “How do you get 2,516 tin whistle players into Chadwicks Wexford Park GAA Stadium during the Fleadh to become the Guinness World record holders for most tin whistles played at one time?” Answer: “Get some Wexford volunteers on your side.”

“Best five days of my life”

Ed Murphy, the famed CEO of Green-

in tune

TechHQ, in his yellow Volunteer tee shirt, who was in the middle of it all in a crowd-packed, sun-blessed Monck Street, said: “Isn’t it all just amazing?”

“Enjoyed every minute of it,” said volunteer Breda Hayes of Kilmore, whose daughter Laura is an optician in Ryans.

“The most exciting thing to happen the county since the 1798 Rebellion,” said Denis Cadogan of Campile, a Fleadh designated videographer, whose films have been broadcast on TG4.

“The best five days of my life,” said Mairead Rafter of Glynn, who, like all other volunteers gathered for several briefing sessions in County Hall in Carricklawn before setting out to work among the crowds.

Cleaned the streets

Some volunteers including County Council workers cleaned the streets at night and watered the beautiful purple and gold real floral hanging baskets along the shop fronts, to make the town sparkle each morning.

In the weeks beforehand, business people and Council workers had eliminated eyesores and laid tarmac and cleaned up and cheered up shop-fronts and signage.

On the sunny Saturday of the Fleadh, volunteers mingled in the Bullring among the crowds who were captivated as a troupe of Mummers in their bishop-like outfits clashed and click-clacked sticks and pranced around echoing and symbolising heroes and battles and encounters of long ago. There was standing room only outside the Cape Bar as the thousands crammed into the Bull Ring around the 1798 monument to see them.

for the Fleadh

Haunt for traditional musicians

There were volunteers in Mary’s Bar outside the Wexford Library where we nipped in to see Catherine who became world famous on the RTÉ television advert for pulling a pint and asking, “Are you coming to the Fleadh?” Mary’s Bar is said to be one of the oldest pubs in Ireland and is a haunt for traditional musicians. Another yellow-clad volunteer was across the way at the Big Wheel and Rocking Boat, outside the John Kelly pub, where the packed crowd were roaring out at the top of their voices, “Come Back Paddy Reilly to Ballyjamesduff”. More were at Simon Lambert’s, more in the Arts Centre and National Opera House and more helping the big television crews from RTÉ, TG4 and Channel 4 and independent film production companies.

More were along the quay, at the big Credit Union Seat, where people lounged on quayside benches, and near the memorial at the Crescent Quay, to John Barry, Father of the American Navy.

On every corner and every few yards along streets were young, old and baby musicians playing ‘Boolavogue’ giving a nod to their Wexford hosts. Helping them to their specially designated chairs, marked ‘reserved for musicians’, were volunteers.

A bunch of volunteers in the Main Street, stopped to watch Michael Kelly of Marshalstown, of the famous Ballindaggin Pipe Band, sensationally lift the streets of the town drowning out the music of fiddles, accordions, bodhráns, flutes, and tin whistles with the loud wail of his bagpipes.

Exponents of traditional music and dancing

Spaces cleared in the middle of the street for expert exponents of traditional music on bodhráns, banjos, squeezeboxes, tin whistles, bagpipes, and mouthorgans. People, twelve deep, watched a boy and a girl dancing Irish jigs and reels in the middle of the Main Street.

Out at Waters Technology in Drinagh, volunteers Robert Nolan of Camross, John Gleeson of Piercestown and Andrew Halligan of Wexford town, managed the improvised Fleadh Park and Ride car park.

Meanwhile, over in her office in Redmond Square, Mary B. O’Leary, the ‘boss’ of Local Link, kept the Wexford transport system working like clockwork operating shuttle buses that picked up Fleadh goers from designated Park and Ride car parks and whisked them time perfect to the town centre.

Volunteer Denis Banville of Camross guided VIPs and performers into the

special seated area of the big black stage, the Gig Rig, on the Quay beside Wexford Bridge.

Order of Malta volunteers guided Freda Cullinan from Nenagh, there with her sister Catherine Ryan and her friends, sisters Mary and Liz Harran, Dublin, and Brigid Freeman, Rosslare Strand. Freda’s eyelash cut her eyeball causing her excruciating pain. The Order of Malta volunteers washed her eye and directed her to a medical centre at the RNLI, where an all-day doctor eased her pain.

“Ordinary decent people,” said a Garda

A group of four Gardaí drafted in from Westmeath, Offaly, Dublin and Galway said there were few ‘incidents’, only some cases where ‘a few lads lost the run of themselves’. The Fleadh goers ‘were ordinary decent people and there was no evidence of ‘crims’ or pickpockets there,’ said one senior Garda.

Two motorcycle paramedics from Dublin, Scotty Dixon and Marshall Sainsbury, who told us their officer in charge was Ger Carthy, said that there were only four or five incidents. One a man dropping to the ground from the heat and others were because of cars outside the town bumping into each other.

Lessons learned for Fleadh 2025

How all the volunteers came together and worked so well was a miracle said one volunteer, “Where one volunteer faltered, another picked him or her up. We had to learn on the job.”

Lessons were learned from this first Fleadh in Wexford, among them that volunteers would know for next year where exactly the loos were, how to get to the Medical Centre, know a history of the town, and where older people might get a chair for a rest.

In many cases, local people defied regulations to help visitors. A waitress allowed some ‘short-taken’ people to use the loo and then laid out a ‘forbidden’ table for them to have refreshments. Those visitors have spread the message of good nature of Wexford people across the world.

“Next year’s Fleadh in Wexford will be even bigger and better,” claimed an exhausted but happy volunteer in a Wexford town that next day had returned to some kind of normal.

– M.F.

Above: Two of the 1,000 volunteers who donned the distinctive bright yellow ‘Volunteer – Here to Help’ tee shirts.

Right: Robert Nolan, John Gleeson and Andrew Halligan at the Fleadh car park in Drinagh.

High praise for Wexford’s Fleadh

Praise from Uachtarán na hÉireann, Michael D. Higgins...

Addressing members of the Oireachtas, County Councillors and the public at the opening of Fleadh Ceoil na hÉireann 2024, Uachtarán na hÉireann Michael D. Higgins spoke in praise of the supporters, the business people and volunteers.

He said: “Above all else, there are ‘na daoine de thoill’, the volunteers, without which so much would not be possible. None of it would be possible without their help. I think the volunteering that underpins the Comhaltas, and every place I've seen it organised, is just such an exemplary spirit of active participation and citizenship, people often giving what is their most precious resource of time, commitment, and skills and experience.”

Departing from a traditional speech, he spoke of “The extermination of the Palestinian nation, a proud people, a cultured people who would like to be in control of their own destiny. We can do things in this world to create stability recognising the cultures of all nations. That is what music, art and culture is about at the end of the day.

“We’re a nation of survivors, it’s not just about music or singing or dancing, it’s about respect for each other. It’s about respect for other cultures and other nations as well.”

Labhrás Ó Murchú, director-general of Comhaltas Ceoiltóirí Éireann with Uachtarán na hÉireann, Michael D. Higgins.

Thanks from Labhrás Ó Murchú, director-general of Comhaltas Ceoiltóirí Éireann...

Mayor of Wexford, Cllr George Lawlor, chaired the opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024 on the big black Gig Rig set up beside Wexford Bridge.

There spoke Labhrás Ó Murchú, the director-general of Comhaltas Ceoiltóirí Éireann, under whose aegis the Fleadh was held. He complimented the business supporters, Failte Ireland, the Credit Union sponsors and the volunteers.

He said: “It is their living monument that

will never rust or disintegrate, but in fact will expand and will be enhanced by the younger generation as they come and put their shoulder to the wheel as well. It has been an eight-year journey for Wexford.”

He said that the former CEO of Wexford County Council, Tom Enright, met him in 2016, the centenary of the Easter Rising, and he expressed an interest in having the Fleadh in Wexford.

“And here we are. This is Wexford, which always has this aura of tradition and of history. It is Wexford of the Patriot Priest, Father Murphy, and the men and women of 98. It is Wexford of the Hurling heroes, the Rackards. It is Wexford of the singing Paddy Berry. Well done, Paddy.

“It is also Wexford of the music maestros, the Rowsomes, Ford, Flood, Ross, and of course the lilting Leo Carty, who won 14 AllIreland Championships.

“And now it is Wexford of the Fleadh Cheoil, and an outstanding Fleadh committee, and a thousand volunteers who are sparing no effort to put on the greatest display of Irishness that we have ever seen in the history of the state or of the nation. And of course, the captain is Eddie Taaffe, new CEO of Wexford County Council. Well done, Eddie. This night and day, people will travel from every part of Ireland and every part of the world. This is the celebration of Gaeldom.”

Not dancing at the crossroads! Dancing on Main Street!

Buskers Tom, Sorcha, Kitty and Mary Quinlan from Clondalkin, Dublin.

Briain Mac Óda of Clonmines waiting for the bus in Trinity Street.

Talented women in Mary’s Bar.

Sam Laffan, proprietor of the Mocking Monck with Alanna Benson.

Clare musicians at Wexford Bridge.

Listening to the traditional music on the Quay.

Friends Freda Cullinan, Brigid Freeman, Catherine Ryan, Mary and Liz Harran with the 1798 Pikemen of Boolavogue at the Fleadh.

The crowded streets.

Colette’s motorbike run for charity

On the 18th August 2024 approx 70 motorbikes gathered at McSorley's Centra, Quarrypark, Enniscorthy, to partake in a charity motorbike run organised by Colette Nolan. The beneficiaries of the funds raised were: Blood Bikes South East, National Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation, Futures in Mind (Talk to Tom) Suicide Prevention and Awareness.

Colette chose these charities for a very specific reason, and they all in a roundabout way have a connection.

Blood Bikes South East – Colette is a controller for the charity who takes calls from hospitals and helps transport medical equipment, files, blood samples, etc, some of which are in an emergency situation.

The National Rehabilitation Hospital is the only hospital of its type in Ireland, providing complex specialist rehabilitation services to patients, both adults and children, who as a result of an accident, illness or injury, have acquired a physical or cognitive disability and require a specialist programme of rehabilitation. The NRH is a publicly-funded hospital and operates on the ethos of providing high quality care and treatment to patients.

The NRH delivers rehabilitation services in the following areas of specialty:

 Brain injury, including stroke and other neurological conditions.

 Spinal cord injury.

 Prosthetic, orthotic and limb absence rehabilitation.

 Paediatric family-centred rehabilitation.

Rehabilitation is a lifelong investment in people; it is an educational process of active change by which a person learns the knowledge and skills needed to enable them to participate meaningfully in family and community life. At the NRH, the focus is to provide personalised treatment plans dedicated to returning patients to the highest level of independence.

Futures in Mind (Talk to Tom) Suicide Prevention and Awareness offers counselling for people in crisis, and helps promote a healthy mind and wellbeing in those struggling at times. We have all known, or are those people, and this is a charity which relies solely on funding they raise from their charity shops and donations made by the general public, either private donations or through fund-

raising events such as the one on the 18th August.

Colette says, "I am overwhelmed by the turn-out of bike riders on the day and thank them all from the bottom of my heart for their generosity and support." Colette also thanks anyone who donated or turned up on the day to support this cause.

A special thanks to Conor Brennan of McSorley's for the support and also for donating two vouchers – one for €100 fuel/shop and one for €50 fuel/shop. The winner of the €50 voucher on the day, which was raffled among the bike riders, was Frithjof Berndsen, Wexford. The winner of the €100 voucher was Ann Roche, New Ross. Congratulations to them both.

All funds raised from this day, €1,700, will be divided between the 3 charities. n

Above left: An aeriel view of the bikes on the day. Above right: Adam Cullen from Futures in Mind, Colette Nolan, and Johnny Mythen TD.

The gathering just before the ride out.

“Government fails to deliver social housing in Co. Wexford”

Sinn Féin TD Johnny Mythen has said that the government is failing to deliver social housing after new figures showed that 5,299 people in County Wexford are on social housing lists or in receipt of Housing Assistance Payment (HAP).

Deputy Mythen added that the only way to start fixing Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael’s mismanagement of the housing crisis is with a change of government, a Sinn Féin Minister for Housing, and Sinn Féin's alternative housing plan.

Teachta Mythen said: “Figures released this week show that 5,299 people in County Wexford are on housing lists or in receipt of HAP. This is further evidence of the government’s inability to fix the housing crisis and their failure to deliver social housing for those who need it.

“The report, published by the Parliamentary Budget Office, estimates that the number of social homes across the state must be increased 56 per cent just to meet the current deficit, yet only last

month Taoiseach Simon Harris inexplicably claimed that a sufficient volume of social housing was being delivered.

“These figures rubbish the Taoiseach's claim, and show just how out of touch he and his government are when it comes to their failures to address the housing crisis.

“But none of this will come as a surprise to those struggling to put a secure and affordable roof over their heads. Fine Gael has been in government for 13 years, Fianna Fáil have been propping them up for the last eight years.

“Last week alone, three independent reports were released by the Society of Chartered Surveyors of Ireland, the Central Statistics Office and Savills. These reports once again highlighted that the government’s housing plan is not working.

“The three reports highlight sky-high house prices, chronic undersupply and the growing affordability challenge for working people looking to rent or buy a home.

“During all that time, house prices, rents and homelessness have risen to historic highs. Meanwhile, the delivery of social and affordable homes has been unacceptably low.

“Sinn Féin has an alternative housing plan that will prioritise the delivery of social and affordable housing to the level that is required. That is why we need a general election, a change of government and a Sinn Féin Minister for Housing." n

Visiting the Rectory in Bunclody

Johnny Mythen TD

Bunclody Rector Trevor Sargent for the months of July and August put on coffee and tea and savouries in the marquee on the Rectory grounds. On the final Friday, 23rd August, he gathered his flock and some locals for a history lesson about the Rectory.

A regular series by the team at Enniscorthy East Community Development

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

• ENNISCORTHY EAST COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

• AN GARDA SÍOCHÁNA

• COMMUNITY CENTRE INFO

“ View From The Hill

• WEXFORD LOCAL DEVELOPMENT

• RESIDENTS ASSOCIATIONS

• LOCAL LINK BUS ROUTE

• OTHER PROJECTS

ENNISCORTHY EAST COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

This group was set up 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, 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. We intend to continue this work by ensuring that our Town and County Council officials and elected Councillors address the needs of the Templeshannon area.

We decided to publish the Newsletter so that we could reach every household in the area, not just those with good social media presence. We hope to follow this up with further editions which will give updates around projects which have been completed as well as those to be undertaken. 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 2930 510.

Check us out on Facebook Enniscorthy East Community Development.

This month the Enniscorthy East Community Development group shares its recently published newsletter.

Physical copies of the newsletter are being delivered door-to-door on the Eastside of Enniscorthy and copies are also available to collect from Templeshannon Community Centre, Centra The Shannon, Daybreak Drumgoold, and St Senan’s Church.

WEXFORD LOCAL DEVELOPMENT

Julie Grant - Community Development Worker, Wexford Local Development I am working for Wexford Local Development for nearly three years now. I feel very lucky to work in this job. I’ve been made to feel so welcome in Enniscorthy, especially by the people of Templeshannon. I find that people in Templeshannon are very honest and open and have a great sense of community. A big part of my job is to be out on the ground, building relationships, actively listening to what people have to say about their communities, what is impacting them, what is working and what is not. My role as a community development worker includes:

“

AN GARDA SÍOCHÁNA

You may have noticed an increase in Garda activity in the area in recent times. This has had a positive effect and we hope that it will continue. Garda resources are directed to those areas where crimes and antisocial behaviour are most reported. To ensure that we continue to have a strong Garda presence in the area, it is very important that residents report all incidents of criminal behaviour. We ask all residents to keep these numbers to hand and when reporting it is vital that you ask for your Call to be Logged.

• If someone wishes to report a crime or anti-social behaviour you can call Enniscorthy Garda Station on 053 9242580. For emergencies call 999 and ask for the Gardaí.

• There is the Garda Confidential line that can also be used; 1800 666 111.

ANNOUNCEMENTS “

NEW MEN’S CHOIR:

Starting on Monday September 2nd 2024 this male voice choir will be getting together to record some popular songs with all the proceeds going to a Local Charity. This promises to be great fun and all men in the community and beyond are welcome to join. No auditions necessary. If interested just show up at the Community Centre at 7pm any Monday evening at 7pm.

Our regular mixed singing group, the ‘Templars’, returns on Thursday September 12th at 10.30am. All Welcome.

COMMUNITY CENTRE:

We are delighted to announce that the Community Centre has been awarded €86,000 as part of the Community Recognition Fund Grant Scheme. We will be using this money to improve Fire Safety in the building, as well as giving our 2 Meeting Rooms a badly needed upgrade.

YOUTH CLUB:

Our award-winning Foróige Youth Club makes a welcome return on Thursday evening September 12th for a Fun Open night. Registrations for the coming year will be taken on the night.

NEW TEMPLESHANNON

WOMEN’S GROUP:

• If someone wishes to highlight traffic issues such as speeding or dangerous driving, the Traffic Watch number is 0818 205 805.

”

If you are interested in joining a new community-based Women’s Group, please contact Julie Grant on 087 1941586 or any member of the Community Team. ”

• Setting up and supporting sustainable communities that impact on their local area.

• Providing capacity-building and leadership training to community groups.

Through our SICAP programme, we support local communities and groups to identify and address social inclusion and equality issues. We provide advice and support in relation to:

• Help with Accessing Funding and Planning for the community.

• Hosting community events and meetings.

• Establishing, sustaining or growing a social enterprise.

You can contact Julie on 087 1941586 or drop into the WLD office beside the Credit Union.

RESIDENTS ASSOCIATIONS “

2024 saw the forming of Residents Associations at both Gimont/Cluain Dara and Hillview Heights. Together they have been instrumental in helping to organise major cleanups in both areas. Assisted by Anne Marie Laffan of Wexford Co. Council, they oversaw significant removal of accumulated rubbish which had been an eyesore over the past number of months and, in some cases, years. It’s been great to see residents from these areas taking back ownership of their community spaces, and while it’s been a hard graft, the rewards are well worth it. Residents at Gimont are eagerly awaiting delivery of their new ride-on mower which will be available exclusively for their area shortly. Hillview Heights has never looked better after major replanting, and more recently these efforts to clean up the community have extended down to the Grotto at Fr. Cullen’s Terrace. Thanks to all those involved for their splendid efforts. If you would like to add your efforts to keep these areas beautiful then please contact Pat Carty or Lynda Murphy for the Gimont area and either Lilly or Mary Corrigan for Hillview Heights and surrounds. Indeed, if you are interested in setting up a residents association in your area then contact Julie Grant of Wexford Local Development (details above) for assistance. ”

LOCAL LINK BUS ROUTE

The new Local Link Route 359 Enniscorthy to New Ross connects residents of the Templeshannon area with Enniscorthy Town Centre and the Lidl/Aldi Stores and Enniscorthy Community College in Bellefield. Running 5 services per day from 7.30am to 7pm, the new route has stops at Esmonde Road, Vinegar Hill Villas, Fr. Cullen’s Tce., St. Senan’s Church and at the Bus Stop on Templeshannon Quay. The service makes its way through Wafer Street and Ross Road to a stop at Marconi Park close to the roundabout at Lidl. The entire journey takes just 15 minutes with departure times from Esmonde Road scheduled at 7.30am, 11am, 2pm, 4.50pm and 8pm Monday to Friday. The Return times start from the Community College at 7.08am with further services at 10.37am, 1.37pm, 4.28pm, and 7.43pm. There is a reduced service on Saturdays and Sundays. For timetable and more details: www.locallinkwexford.ie

COMMUNITY AND CHILDCARE CENTRE PROJECT UPDATES

Over the past 12 months the Board of Management at Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre has been very busy implementing a series of upgrades to its services and facilities. These include:

• A complete re-wiring and heating upgrade at the Community Centre.

• A new state-of-the-art outdoor play area for the pre-schoolers.

• Erection of high-vis Safety Bollards outside the main entrance – these to be extended.

• Expansion of the hugely successful ‘After Schools Service’.

• Addition of a new, full-size Badminton Court in the Community Hall.

OTHER PROJECT UPDATES

• Commitment from local Council to install new children’s playground.

• Discussions ongoing about new walking trails in Templeshannon.

• Captain Wafer Hall to be brought into community use.

CREATIVE PLACES ENNISCORTHY

INCLUSIVITY | DIVERSITY | CELEBRATION

Fostering creativity / cultural enrichment and community engagement

Creative Places Enniscorthy is an Arts Council of Ireland / An Chomhairle Ealaíon initiative. CPE is a three-year developmental arts programme for Enniscorthy, Wexford between 2023-2026.

WWW.CREATIVEPLACESENNISCORTHY.IE

YOUR CREATIVE PLACE

Co-ordinator Deryn O Callaghan 087 9578984 | cpenniscorthy@wexfordartscentre.ie

Bench dedication to Mick Quigley

The Slaney News was delighted to be among the large attendance on 24th August 2024 at the unveiling of a memorial bench at Fairgreen, Enniscorthy, dedicated to Michael (Mick) Quigley of Greenville, a leading light in the boxing community, who passed away in 2021.

The bench was jointly unveiled by Michael’s great-granddaughter Amelia Grace Doyle and his good friend and boxing colleague Paddy Redmond, and is situated beside a bench dedicated to another great Enniscorthy boxer, the late Bernard Dunne.

The dedication was organised by the Wexford Ex-Boxers Associ-

ation whose President Jim Sullivan spoke fondly of Mick recalling that Mick drove him to his first ever fight which was in Wexford town only for the car to break down on the way! He spoke about how “Mick was fair with everybody”, “everything was done right” and there were “no half measures with Mick”.

Another speaker at the event was Mick’s friend and boxing colleague Francis Keeling who spoke about how meticulous Mick was, always punctual and “well turned out”.

Cllr Jackser Owen spoke on behalf of Enniscorthy Municipal District, praising Mick and recalling how he himself starting his own boxing career as a nine-year-old in St Patrick’s Boxing Club.

The main speaker was Mick’s daughter Teresa Quigley who spoke lovingly about her father and recalling how well known he was around Enniscorthy – a bit of a celebrity in his day, and also how the smell of wintergreen rather than Old Spice pervaded their particular household! She spoke of Mick’s good friend Paddy Redmond who was a “constant presence” in her father’s life, so it was fitting that Paddy, a boxing referee, judge and coach himself, should be the last speaker. Paddy reminded the large gathering that in addition to boxing, Mick was also heavily involved in camogie and the FCA and that if the legendary local journalist Sean Whelan, who was present on the day, was ever to write a book about Enniscorthy’s unsung heroes then Mick would certainly be on the first page. n

Left: Teresa Quigley, Amelia Grace-Doyle, Amanda Doyle and Gus Farrell. Gus was the first Wexford man to win a national senior boxing title and was a coach for the Irish olympic team in Atlanta in 1996.

Family, friends, neighbours, members of the boxing community, well-wishers, and Enniscorthy Councillors Aidan Browne, Cathal Byrne, and Jackser Owens at the unveiling of a memorial bench at Fairgreen, Enniscorthy, on 24th August 2024, dedicated to the late Michael (Mick) Quigley.

bench being jointly unveiled by

daughter Amelia Grace Doyle and his good friend and boxing colleague Paddy Redmond.

Above right: Mick’s daughter Teresa Quigley speaks lovingly about her father.

Right: Gus Farrell, Cllr Jackser Owens, and Jim Sullivan, President of the Wexford Ex-Boxers Assocation.

Below left: Teresa Quigley with representatives of the camogie community in Co. Wexford.

Below right: Francis Keeling and Paddy Redmond of the Wexford Ex-Boxers Association.

Bottom: The large gathering.

Above left: The

Mick’s great-grand-

Sustainable Enniscorthy

A monthly column

A member of the local Sustainable Enniscorthy group looks at food waste.

“Just one thing” is the name of the podcast hosted by the late Michael Mosley who tragically died earlier this year. The aim of the programme was to delve more deeply into just one thing that any one of us could undertake to improve our health. Using this principle of just one thing consider one consistent food product you put in your bin and hopefully with this article you will find a way to reduce or eliminate that waste.

As much as we all try, sometimes it can be hard to avoid food waste. Some weeks we are very focused on it and we are delighted with our efforts and other times we end up sighing as something else goes in the bin! There is also the annoying impact on our shopping bills and anything we can do to help that, I think we all could benefit from.

According to the Stop food waste website up to 50% of salads are wasted, 25% fruit & vegetables, 20% breads, 10% milk and 10% meat is wasted. And probably it is no surprise to anyone… potatoes and bananas are the foods we most waste.

One of the best ways to deal with the ‘potato’ issue is to cook all the potatoes off in one go… some as boiled and some as roast potatoes and freeze. Unfortunately, you cannot freeze raw potatoes. Unless you are a big fan of banana bread, the best approach to avoid banana waste is at the supermarket. Stop buying a full bunch of bananas and instead split them to the number you are sure of using. Go for the policy of running out of bananas rather than wondering how to use them up in time.

There are also other ingredients in our kitchens that consistently end up in the bin like garlic, ginger and chillies. The quantities required for recipes are a lot smaller that the portion sizes that we end up having to purchase in the supermarket. Below are some ideas on how to always have these ingredients ready for use and that will also eliminate food waste.

GARLIC:

Separate cloves from bulb, peel each clove and cut off the brown stem end of garlic.

Place cloves in dish lined with parchment paper, keep cloves separate from each other. Do not cover. Freeze for three hours or overnight.

Once the garlic is frozen, place in a freezer bag/container. Label and date.

GINGER:

No need to bother peeling the ginger before freezing, it is easier to peel from frozen.

Cut in approx one inch chunks and freeze initially in single layer uncovered in parchment lined container. Leave uncovered. Transfer the ginger to a freezer food bag/container after two hours. Label and date.

CHILLIES:

Remove the stalk and other end of chilli pod. Cut the pods lengthways and remove seeds and membrane.

Slice the chillies into thin pieces or to the size you use for cooking.

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!

Spread out on a parchment lined container uncovered and place in freezer for about 20 minutes.

Transfer the chillies to a freezer food bag/container. Label and date.

The stop food waste website (stopfoodwaste.ie) is packed full of ideas and information on how to buy, store, use up and where possible freeze a huge variety of ingredients. They have a very comprehensive A to Z with practical ideas.

It can be difficult to have enough freezer space for freezing leftover foods so nominating an Irish Tapas dinner weekly can be a great way to clear out the fridge and reserving the freezer for priority foods. The Irish Tapas is the trendy phrase for what most people call a ‘usey uppy dinner’. For those in your family that resent this type of dinner, add a few chips or a treat dessert to balance everyone’s mood! It helps your budget, clears out the fridge before your next shop, and you are doing what you can stop food waste.

It is over to you now: the just one thing challenge is to make a quick list of the foods you would like to avoid wasting and visit the stop waste food website for information and inspiration. Focus on just one food each week that is frequently wasted and build up these positive habits week by week.

Follow Sustainable Enniscorthy on Facebook and Instagram and visit sustainableenniscorthy.com n

All the fun of the Fleadh

Above left: Making their way by bus to the Fleadh.

Above right: Anna and Michael Kelly, Marshalstown. Michael is a member of Ballindaggin Pipe Band.

Above: The Big Wheel and the Swinging Boat on the Quay.

Left: In Monck Street, Aideen, E�irin and Meabh Guilfoyle from Co. Offaly.

Below: Large crowd gathered in Mary’s Bar.

Above and below: All ages performing at last month’s Fleadh in Wexford.

Alzheimer’s Cafe at Wheelocks

Enniscorthy Alzheimer’s Cafe Afternoon at The Village at Wheelocks on 27th July 2024 –a special summer afternoon for people with alzheimer’s/dementia, their families, friends and carers, with music by the Blackstairs Rebels

Top left: Andrea Caffrey, Michaela Wallace and Ciara Cooney.

Top right: The Blackstairs Rebels entertaining the crowd.

Above left: Paddy Cooney and Mick Reddy.

Above centre: Helen O’Donogue and Pauline O’Gorman.

Above right: Cathy Murphy and John Sugrue.

the

supporting the

afternoon.

Below left: Members of

Enniscorthy Dollies

Alzheimer’s

Below right: Ann Marie O’Leary and Paddy Mangan.

THE RACE FOR THE WHITE HOUSE IS TAKING SOME JOURNEY!

Many readers would look back fondly on the popular television series ‘The West Wing’. This award-winning tale depicted a fictional American President in his day to day duties. The intrigue and the edge of your seat storyline was the cornerstone of its success. The team of writers was paid handsomely for us to partake on this rollercoaster ride. So picture this as a theme for the show. A President with more than a little odd affect loses his second election. Before he leaves office he persuades his followers that the election was stolen from him and they should storm the capital to take back what is rightfully his. This attack on democracy fails with loss of life and many people jailed for treason. As the months and years go by the former President spends his time in and out of court fighting multiple federal charges. The judicial system results in dozens of convictions all the while vowing and plotting his return to power. He narrowly survives an asassination attempt and his opponent dramatically stands down for health reasons. This makes way for the Vice President to possibly become the first lady of colour to become President of the United States of America. This makes great content for a story but hardly realistic!!!

The next few months will shape America for a generation. With so much at stake, the run in to the election in November will be carefully calculated on both sides. I will try to map out the content and spin that may give either side the fine margins on a path to victory. Biden’s exit from the race has caused Trump many

TOWN TALK

WITH KEITH DOYLE

unexpected problems. Trump has spent years targeting Biden, creating a narrative that the current President is too old and is “crooked Joe”. Harris was not on Trump’s radar. Harris has portrayed herself on social media as an energetic and vibrant candidate in tune with the younger voter. This has put Trump firmly in the old and stuffy category for sure. With the up-tempo Democratic convention described as

like a sugar rush, she has hit the ground running. The enthusiastic endorsements from the Obamas, the Clintons, Biden and Oprah have given the campaign much life. This has taken the focus off the Trump campaign and makes it look old, tired and repetitive. When Trump is handing out insults, the Democrats are careful to brand Trump and his running mate just “weird”. The choice of running mate has been a factor so far.

Trump selected J.D. Vance – a self-proclaimed ‘hillbilly’ with military experience from Ohio on the Appalachian mountain trail. This firmly fits into Trump’s Bible Belt saviour narrative. Harris chose Tim Walz – a Nebraskaborn Minnesota Senator. Walz appeals to the moderate Democrat and the independents.

So Trump was making a lot of traction when Biden was his opponent but Harris has made quick gains since she took the baton. There are usually safe states on both sides and all eyes are firmly on the seven swing states. There will be a lot of activity in the next few months to place the swing states on one side or another. At the time of going to press the polls suggest that Harris is shading Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Trump is sneaking ahead in Georgia while Nevada and North Carolina are too close to call. This can change as we are only talking about 1% either way, that’s why they are called the swing states. What will decide this election will be whether Harris can maintain the high energy persona and will the debates focus on policies. There is still a lot to play for and there are many more surprises in this real life ‘West Wing’ saga. n

Presidential candidate Donald Trump with his running mate J.D. Vance –a self-proclaimed ‘hillbilly’.

LOOKING TO HIRE A ROOM FOR MEETINGS, COURSES, CAMPS, FITNESS CLASSES ETC AT A CONVENIENT LOCATION IN ENNISCORTHY....

THEN LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE WATERFRONT POOL AND LEISURE CENTRE...

For more information contact Barry at manager@enniscorthypool.ie https://www.facebook.com/Thewaterfro ntpool

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.

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

The Summer that Wasn’t

It’s the end of the second-in-a-row disappointing summer. The weather has been horrible throughout the last few months. This has an adverse effect on the economy with shops and stores failing to sell summer goods and clothes and then being forced to sell stock off at a loss to generate cash flow and to make room for autumn and winter arrivals.

The local tourist industry suffers also with outside dining being almost impossible to operate and a huge fall-off in day-trippers from other parts of the country. That type of loss is always ongoing as many who decided to stay home this year, and feel that they lost the summer, will go abroad next year which of course sends money out of the country rather than circulate it within. And who can blame someone who has only two weeks off and rather than get a couple of weeks out in the fresh air find themselves holed up indoors somewhere hoping that tomorrow will be better. The type of weather we had doesn’t do our young people any good either as they return to school without the benefit of a bit of sunshine, and I said ‘a bit’ before the health Taliban start decrying the benefit of the sun. All in all, it has been rather depressing for many. Let’s hope that we will get a mild winter to compensate.

General Election

Simon says that the General Election will not be held until March next year. Despite that, his own party is lining up candidates as if the date had already been announced. It’s difficult to see how the Taoiseach or any of the other two government party leaders can climb back on that date at this point without making themselves look like they were deliberately misleading the public. Credibility must mean something when it comes to an issue as important as an election. If on one hand they virtually swear that the date is early 2025 and on the other say, “Oh wait, we changed our minds”, how

View from the Centre

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

can they expect us to believe a word out of their mouths when the campaign commences.

None of the major political parties would have any great record of reliability with regard to what they tell the public. They flip flop on immigration policy, particularly Sinn Féin in that regard, and many other issues continuously, and then wonder that

when polls are held as to the unpopularity of particular professions politicians usually are fairly near the top. Mind you, journalists are usually not far behind in fairness. The late United States Senator Eugene McCarthy said of his political profession in 1968, “They spit on their finger, hold it up in the air and then decide on policy.” He wasn’t far out.

Big RTE Payouts

As this article is being written, word is filtering through of another big payout to a departing senior staff member in RTE. We don’t know how much because there is a confidentiality agreement in place. I can’t figure out how a group of people can get together and decide to award a massive payout to a departing colleague using public money to do so. On this occasion the RTE management had the assistance of the WRC is negotiating a settlement for this individual. In my view that makes it worse.

The WRC is a public statutory body which has very significant powers. It arbitrates in relation to industrial disputes, large and small, and its ruling can have a devasting impact on businesses or claimants alike. Recently the Superior Courts ruled that WRC hearings and judgements should be public. So the question is, “Why is RTE different”?

Celebrity Candidates

Gráinne Seoige is putting her name forward at a forthcoming Fianna Fáil convention in Galway seeking selection to be a candidate in the next General Election. This trend, in my opinion, diminishes politics even further than the profession has been over the years. We saw similar from Fine Gael during the European Elections with a jockey Nina Carberry and a Rose of Tralee winner standing and being successfully elected. It’s puzzling to me and many of my generation who always tried to vote on party policies or individual performances as to how these people whose principal asset is their name can stand, which they are fully entitled to do, and be elected. We live in a strange world. n

Celebrity candidate Gráinne Seoige.

CONTACT DETAILS: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthyfailte

Email: enniscorthyfailte@gmail.com

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Enniscorthy

CBS Enniscorthy

Ciara Kehoe and Liam Parnell.

Left: Amelia Furlong and Cathal Kehoe. Above: Robert Cahill, Jamie Pepper, Evan Corrigan and Gerry Sheridan. Right: Kora Connors and Nathan Murphy. Below left: Brendan Mahamba and Noxiey Mpofu. Below centre: Cian McCormack, Paddy Kelly-Roberts and Luke Wheelock. Below right: Amy O’Brien and Caoimhe O’Leary.

Sarah Bolger and Killian O’Toole.

Cathal and Niamh Murphy.

Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post

Community Sports Hub Development Officer (New Ross)

(1 Year Temporary Part Time 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 post must be Typed and submitted by Email only to recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie

Printed hard copies will NOT be accepted for the above post.

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for this post is: 5.00pm on Thursday 12th September, 2024.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Fáiltíonn Comhairle Contae Loch Garman roimh iarratasóirí

Oifigeach Forbartha an Mhoil Spórt Pobail (Ros Mhic Thriúin)

(Conradh Bliana Sealadach Páirtaimseartha)

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 an bpost thuasluaite a Chlóscríomh agus a chur ar aghaidh ar Ríomhphost amháin chuig recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie

NÍ GHLACFAR le cóipeanna crua priontáilte don phost thuasluaite.

An dáta deiridh a ghlacfar le foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe don phost seo ná: 5.00pm, Déardaoin an 12 Meán Fómhair 2024. Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.

Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following posts

Graduate Engineer

Assistant Engineer

Executive Engineer

www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie

This is a Rolling Recruitment process. IF INTERESTED PLEASE APPLY IMMEDIATELY.

Closing Date 31st December, 2024. Applications will be processed as vacancies arise.

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.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Fáiltíonn

Comhairle Contae Loch Garman roimh iarratasóirí do na poist seo a leanas

IsInnealtóir Iarchéime

Innealtóir Cúnta Innealtóir Feidhmiúcháin

Is próiseas earcaíochta ar bhonn atrátha é seo.

MÁ TÁ SPÉIS AGAT SA PHOST, DÉAN IARRATAS LÁITHREACH.

Is é an 31 Nollaig 2024 an dáta deiridh a ghlacfar le hiarratais. Déanfar iarratais a phróiseáil de réir mar a thagann folúntais chun cinn.

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.

Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.

Roadside Trees, Ditches and Hedges

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

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

You are required to fell, cut, log, trim or remove such trees, ditches and hedges. Adequate signposting should be provided and the Council and Gardaí notified before works commence.

Hedge cutting operations should, as far as possible, only be undertaken outside the critical nesting period of 1st March to 31st August.

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

Crainn, Díoga agus Fálta Cois Bóthair

Ws mian le Comhairle Contae Loch Garman fógra a thabhairt go bhfuil oibleagáid ar úinéirí agus áititheoirí talún, faoi théarma Acht na mBóithre, 1993, gach beart réasúnach a dhéanamh chun a chinntiú nach bhfuil crainn, díoga, fálta nó fásra eile ar a dtalamh ina nguais nó ina nguais fhéideartha do dhaoine a úsáideann bóthar poiblí nó a oibríonn air.

Áirítear ar shamplaí de ghuaiseanna crainn mharbha nó crainn atá ag fáil bháis, díoga nó fálta a chuireann isteach ar thrácht, atá ag blocáil cosán, ag cur bac ar rochtain ar chosáin, ag ceilt comharthaí bóthair nó ag ceilt an radhairc ar an mbóthar ar aghaidh amach.

Ceanglaítear ort crainn, díoga agus fálta den sórt sin a leagan, a ghearradh, a theascadh, a bhearradh, nó a aistriú. Ba cheart go soláthrófaí comharthaíocht chuí agus ba cheart an Chomhairle agus na Gardaí a chur ar an eolas sula dtosófaí ar an obair.

Níor cheart go ndéanfaí oibríochtaí bearrtha fálta ach amháin lasmuigh den tréimhse ríthábhachtach neadaireachta ón 1 Márta go dtí an 31 Lúnasa, a mhéid is féidir.

Is é an úinéir/áititheoir talún a bheidh faoi dhliteanas i leith damáiste nó díobhála mar thoradh ar ghuaiseanna den sórt sin.

Section 38 Road Traffic Act 1994 –Traffic Calming Scheme (Section 38) Gorey, Co Wexford

Wexford County Council proposes to undertake construction of Traffic Calming and improve pedestrian access at several locations on the R772 (and junctions) in Gorey.

The proposed scheme consists of Pedestrian Crossings (Controlled and Uncontrolled), Junction Tightening and Signalisation, Signage (VAS) and Footpath Works.

The works are located at the Gorey Hill Memorial, McCurtain Street, Main Street Ballytegan Road and the Arklow Road.

As part of the Traffic Calming works in the area, the objective is to reduce excessive speeding, improve connections to existing footpaths, improve walking access.

Drawings are available for inspection on Wexford County Council’s website https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie and on display in Gorey-Kilmuckridge

Municipal District Offices, Civic Square, The Avenue, Gorey, Co. Wexford, Y25V1W5, from Wednesday 4th September 2024 to Wednesday 2nd October 2024.

The Council will consider any submissions or observations made in writing regarding the proposal. Submissions should be lodged in writing to Road Safety Team, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93 or via Wexford County Council Online Consultation Portal. All submissions to be received by 5.00pm Wednesday 2nd October 2024.

Please note that comments, including names of those making comments, submitted to the Council regarding this process will form part of the statutorily required report to be presented at a meeting of elected members. Accordingly, they may also appear in the public domain.

Eamonn Hore

Director of Services, Roads, Transportation, Water Services, Health & Safety. 23rd August 2024.

Section 38 Road Traffic Act 1994 –Pedestrian and Traffic Calming Scheme Bride Street, Bride Place and Distillery Road, Wexford, Co Wexford

Wexford County Council proposes to undertake construction of Traffic Calming and improve pedestrian access at several locations on the R889 (and junction with the L-3509) and the R733.

The proposed scheme consists of Pedestrian Crossings (Controlled and Uncontrolled), Junction tightening, Signage and footpath works the Bride Place, Bride Street, John Street and Distillery Road.

As part of the Traffic Calming works in the area, the objective is to reduce excessive speeding, improve connections to existing footpaths, improve walking and cycling access.

Drawings are available for inspection on Wexford County Council’s website https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie and on display in our Customer Services Unit, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford (Y35 WX93) from Wednesday 4th September 2024 to Wednesday 2nd October 2024.

The Council will consider any submissions or observations made in writing regarding the proposal. Submissions should be lodged in writing to Road Safety Team, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93 or via Wexford County Council Online Consultation Portal. All submissions to be received by 5.00pm Wednesday 2nd October 2024.

Please note that comments, including names of those making comments, submitted to the Council regarding this process will form part of the statutorily required report to be presented at a meeting of elected members. Accordingly, they may also appear in the public domain.

Eamonn Hore

Director of Services, Roads, Transportation, Water Services, Health & Safety. 23rd August 2024.

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

Position

Location

Environmental Operative – 1 position Gorey

Duties to include:

 Environmental Operative - General maintenance, cleaning, planting and weeding etc.

To apply for this 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

The closing date for applications is Thursday June September 26th at 4pm.

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

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities employer.

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Monday 30 September to Friday 11 October 2024, to facilitate the installation of an agricultural underpass at Tomcool Big, Barntown, Co. Wexford.

Road Closure: L-7018-1 Tomcool Big between junctions on the N25 and the L-7017-6.

Alternative Route: N25 to junction with L-3071-1 at Harristown to L3007-5 at Wilkinstown to L-3009-5 and onto the L7017-6 at Davidstown.

L-7017-6 at Davidstown to L7017-4 and onto junction with N25 at Crandonnell.

Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated. Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 10 September 2024 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.

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 16 September to Friday 4 October 2024, from 07:00 to 17:00, to facilitate the demolition of structures at Barrack Street and Irish Street, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford.

Road Closure 1: Barrack Street, L-6513-1, Enniscorthy from Monday 16 September to Friday 27 September 2024.

Alternative Route: From Island Road (R-722) to Irish Street and Bohreen Hill Junction (L-2504).

Road Closure 2: Irish Street, L-2504-1, Enniscorthy from Monday 23 September to Friday 4 October 2024.

Alternative Route: From Main Street (L-2509) to Abbey Square (R-744) to Abbey Quay (R-772) to Island Road (R-772).

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 16 September to Friday 27 September 2024, to facilitate the installation of an agricultural underpass at Philippintown, Co. Wexford.

Road Closure: R738-10 junction with R733-37 at Waddingtown and R738-11 junction with L-3044-6 at Edmondstown.

Alternative Route: Regional Road Alternative R733 to Wellingtonbridge onto R736 to Carrick and back to Baldwinstown.

Local Road Alternative L-3044-6 Edmondstown to L-7061-1 The Dirr R738-14 from Baldwinstown to L-3041-9 to Murrintown

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 16 September to Friday 25 October 2024, to facilitate the laying of watermains on behalf of Uisce Eireann at Clonhaston, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford.

Road Closure: R-744-3 between junction with L-2020-3 and R-744-3 junction with L-6058-2.

Alternative Route: Local Access from junction R-744-3 and L-6058-2 Clonhasten onto L-2020-3 to Junction at R-744-3 (Mr. Price Shop).

Alternative Route: HGV access to Enniscorthy Town From R-744-5 Tomnafunshoge roundabout to N-30 (New Ross Road) to Scarawalsh Roundabout to R-772-35 Blackstoops road to R722-38 Island Road to R-744-1 Templeshannon.

Alternative Route: HGV access to Tomnafunshoge from Enniscorthy Town R-772 Shannon Quay to R772 Abbey Quay to R772 Blackstoops to R772 Scarawalsh to N30 Balldawnmore to R-744-5 Tomnafunshoge roundabout to R744 Clonhasten.

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

Special Projects

Wexford County Council will hold a Public Consultation (Route Options) for the Wexford to Rosslare Strand Greenway and the Rosslare Strand to Rosslare Harbour Greenway. The Public Consultation will run from Wednesday 14th August to Wednesday 11th September.

To view the Route Options plans and provide feedback, please visit https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/en

For more information, please contact Special Projects Office, Wexford County Council (053-9196000) or Specialprojects@wexfordcoco.ie

Tionscadail Speisialta

Reáchtálfaidh Comhairle Contae Loch Garman Comhairliúchán Poiblí (Roghanna Bealaigh) maidir le Glasbhealach Loch Garman go Trá Ros Láir agus maidir le Glasbhealach Thrá Ros Láir go Calafort Ros Láir. Beidh an Comhairliúchán Poiblí ar siúl ón gCéadaoin, an 14 Lúnasa go dtí Dé Céadaoin, an 11 Meán Fómhair.

Chun breathnú ar na pleananna maidir le Roghanna Bealaigh agus chun aiseolas a thabhairt, tabhairt cuairt ar https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/en

Chun tuilleadh eolais a fháil, déan teagmháil le hOifig na dTionscadal Speisialta, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman (053-9196000) nó Specialprojects@wexfordcoco.ie

Join the conversation! –Wexford County Council Corporate Plan Public Consultation

Wexford County Council is working on our Corporate Plan for 2025 -2029, and we want YOUR input! This is your opportunity to shape the future of our community and help us understand your priorities.

Whether you are a resident, business owner or community group, we invite all our citizens to participate in our public consultation. Share your ideas, concerns, and aspirations for Wexford in the coming years. Whether it’s about sustainable development, community services, or local infrastructure — every voice matters!

The Corporate Plan - what is it?

The Corporate Plan serves as the local authority's framework for action during the lifetime of the current Council, 2025 - 2029. It serves as a roadmap for how the Local Authority plans to operate and improve the community.

How to Participate:

 Complete our online survey using QR code.

 Email your views to corporateplan@wexfordcoco.ie

 Submit your proposals by post to: Customer Service Unit (CSU), Wexford County Council, Co. Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford (marked’ Corporate Plan Submission’).

What happens after the Consultation?

Your feedback will be considered during the drafting of the Corporate Plan.

The elected members will consider the Draft Plan and will decide on the adoption of the Plan in December 2024.

When the Plan is adopted by the elected members it is then publicised and published on the Council's website.

A copy of the current corporate plan can be found at: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/council-and-democracy/council-plans-publications-reports-andminutes/corporate-plans

Latest date for receipt of submissions is 5pm on Wednesday 2nd Oct, 2024.

Glac

páirt

sa chomhrá! –Comhairliúchán Poiblí ar Phlean Corparáideach Chomhairle

Contae Loch Garman

Tá Comhairle Contae Loch Garman ag obair ar ár bPlean Corparáideach do na blianta 2025 - 2029, agus tá DO CHUID ionchuir uainn! Is é seo do dheis todhchaí an pobal s’againne a mhúnlú agus cuidiú linn do chuid tosaíochtaí a thuiscint.

Bíodh tú i do chónaitheoir, i d’úinéir gnó nó i do ghrúpa pobail, tugaimid cuireadh do shaoránaigh uile an cheantair páirt a ghlacadh sa chomhairliúchán poiblí seo atá ar bun againn. Roinn do chuid smaointe, na hábhair imní atá agat agus na huaillmhianta atá agat do Loch Garman sna blianta atá amach romhainn. Cibé acu a bhaineann siad le fhorbairt inbhuanaithe, seirbhísí pobail nó bonneagar áitiúil - tá gach aon tuairim tábhachtach!

An Plean Corparáideach - céard é féin?

Feidhmíonn an Plean Corparáideach mar chreat an údaráis áitiúil le haghaidh gníomhartha le linn shaolré na Comhairle reatha, 2025 - 2029. Is ionann é agus treochlár i dtaobh an bealach a mbeidh an tÚdarás Áitiúil ag feidhmiú agus ag cur feabhas ar an bpobal.

An Bealach le Páirt a Ghlacadh:

 Comhlánaigh an suirbhé ar líne atá againn tríd an gcód QR a úsáid.

 Seol do chuid tuairimí ar ríomhphost chuig corporateplan@wexfordcoco.ie

 Cuir do mholtaí ar aghaidh ar an bpost chuig: Aonad Seirbhísí do Chustaiméirí, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, Halla an Chontae, An Charraig Leathan, Loch Garman (agus é marcáilte ‘Aighneacht maidir leis an bPlean Corparáideach’).

Céard a Tharlóidh i ndiaidh an Chomhairliúcháin?

Déanfar do chuid aiseolais a bhreithniú le linn dhréachtú an Phlean Chorparáidigh.

Déanfaidh na comhaltaí tofa an Dréachtphlean a bhreithniú agus déanfaidh siad cinneadh maidir le glacadh an Phlean i mí na Nollag 2024.

Tráth a dhéanfaidh na comhaltaí tofa an Plean a ghlacadh, déanfar é a phoibliú agus a fhoilsiú ar shuíomh gréasáin na Comhairle.

Is féidir teacht ar chóip den phlean reatha ar: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/council-and-democracy/council-plans-publications-reports-and-minutes/corporate-plans

Is é 5pm Dé Céadaoin an 2 Deireadh Fómhair an dáta deiridh a ghlacfar le haighneachtaí.

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-turnkey-units-and-development-land

Wexford County Council is subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2014.

RED DEAD PRES REDEMPTION II Peer Pleasure Returns

By Dorn Simon. Pics by Damien Smullen.

Saturday, July 27th, saw the return of local band Peer Pleasure after a year of performing all over the country and as far away as Belgium, Germany and The Netherlands.

Last playing at The Presentation Arts Centre in August 2023, the band has seen many venues, with many band member additions, changes and collaborations, now bringing it home once more.

Eleven musicians hit the stage as Peer Pleasure on Saturday night increasing to 14 for one track, all as one large congregation of sound in this quaint old chapel nestled in our historic Enniscorthy town.

The surge of new life in the town that has accompanied the recent additions of a dedicated youth music scene has seen a growth in teen bands, in youth activity, with a healthy outlet through composition, performance and music. Juniper Hallow opened the evening’s entertainment, and are no

newcomers to the Presentation stage, having played on more than one occasion in the past. Eibhlinn Lawlor has strengthened as a vocalist in the past year, proving her dedication to her craft by delivering material with a unique take, covers such as Black Sabbath’s ‘Paranoid’ are popular within their intermingled and carefully chosen set.

Bad Mothers Union had jaws dropping with their mesmerising set, a band reunited after a break of over 15 years, and all that can be said is, they were worth the wait! Imagine if you will an unsuspecting audience, as Bad Mothers Union walks on stage in long shorts, baseball cap, wild hair and sneakers, and proceeds to dive into an almost entirely instrumental set, bringing an air of Hawkwind, with long hypnotic musical compositions, intertwined with the subtle undertones of gothic melody such as Fields of the Nephilim and the onslaught of delicious noise provocatively dancing with the hints of Sonic Youth.

The threesome creates such a sound that you would think you

Peer Pleasure

Peer Pleasure

Peer Pleasure

were listening to one of the supergroups of the 60s, not a trio! Vocals finally landed near the end of the set, delivered by Conor, equally impressive, and the floor was tight into the stage in mere disbelief of what they had just experienced.

Bad Mothers Union are: Conor Kavanagh, Aaron Harbourne, Michael Lanigan, Joel Pitcher.

The Donnys, from Kilkenny, are no strangers to our stage either, their definitive 60s hippy style ripped through the venue, with fans dancing and singing along. The five-piece band are proving to be one of the best young live bands in the country and will be featured in an episode of RTE’s An Ghig Mhór, a brand new television series airing on RTÉ One in Autumn 2024.

Peer Pleasure redeemed their spot in Enniscorthy as one of the liveliest, most unpredictable and most flourishing outfits locally, having expanded during their absence to play a multitude of

counties, countries and venues, delivering a wild set, that morphs into a rebirth with each performance, that creates an almost feral atmosphere, allowing a free flow of the soul, unrestrictive like no other, which can both work for and against them in a conformed society. Bringing hits like ‘Weed Addict’ and ‘Take It’ to the stage where we often assembled to see them, with questions in mind like, “Just ‘how’ will they perform tonight?” or “Who will they have on stage tonight?” 11 upwards to 14 with guests on Saturday 27th July, was the answer this time.

However, there was a certain element of maturing in the latest instalment, given the wild ride they have been on for the last 18 months. It was good to have them back, even if for a little while.

Peer Pleasure also hit the opening slot on the Salty Dog Stage at Electric Picnic on Friday 16th August, it not being the first time the lads ran amok at the picnic with their lively animated set. n

The Donnys

The Donnys

The Donnys

Juniper Hallow

Juniper Hallow

Juniper Hallow

Bad Mothers Union

Bad Mothers Union

Bad Mothers Union

Fabulous fun at the Fleadh

Some highlights of the Fleadh Cheoil in Wexford, August 2024:

 600,000+ visitors flocked to the event.

 €60 million injected into the local economy.

 7,000 competitors from Ireland and abroad.

 New world record: 2,500+ tin whistles playing simultaneously.

 Beartla Ó Flatharta Céilí Band Cill Dara won the Senior Céilí Band competition. n

27th July 2024

St Mary’s Rectory Bunclody Summer Fete

Above

Below left: Bakery Stall with Gen Ruttle, Hazel Brownwick and Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy.

Below right: Holly Bolton Lee sets the ducks off at the Duck Race at the Rectory.

Above left: Oliver and Frances Deacon.

right: Aine Dunne.

Right: Ted Byrne and Oliver Deacon.

Meánscoil Gharman Grad Ball

Riverbank

House Hotel, Wexford 20th August 2024

Victoria Kinsella and Cellian Dempsey.

Rachel Meaney and Jacob Murphy.

Nicole Roche and Tiernan Doyle.

Aoibheann Reid and Sarah Leahy.

Loren Sophie Nolan and Conor Daly.

Adam Fadian and Emma Redmond.

Leah Brady and Eoin Kenny. Kacie Franklin and Afina Aleksawarova. Rachel Quirke and Eire Ni Fhaslawn.

Above left: ‘Guess how many sweets are in the jar’ competition –Catherine Maher has a go with stallholders Stella McCleane and Christine Murphy.

PAT’S PICTURE PARADE

OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER

PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

Castlebridge 28th July 2024

Above left: Face to face with a scarecrow at the show was Gine O’Rourke.

Above centre: Enjoying the sunshine were Anna Rigney, Ann and Lucy Rigney.

Above right: Getting her knitted egg from a stand at the show was Ellie Doyle.

Left: Molly and Penny O’Keeffe at the Blackwater Open Farm stand with a Silver Sebright Bantam.

Right: Facepainter Caoimhe Cullen with Katie Parker.

Below left: Having a day out were Cecily Kinsella, Betty Murphy and Barr Veale and pet dog Pedro.

Below centre: Elliott Rigney at the Blackwater Open Farm stand.

Below right: Manning their stand of knitting and soft toys were Breda Finerty and Noeleen Kehoe.

Above right: St Patrick’s Fife and Drum band drummers.

Above left: Ger and Breda

PAT’S PICTURE PARADE

OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

Above centre: John, Anne Lisa and Stephanie

Castlebridge Show were Shannon and Kyleigh Kinsella, Amanda O’Reilly and Josephine

Below

and her sister Jacinta Doyle who had two first places and two second places in the photographic section.

were Thomas and Maye Keely. Bottom left: Impressed with the veg were Nessa, Daithi and Drew Shiggins. Bottom centre

and Joe Murphy at the Show. Bottom right: Kay Murphy won a cup, four 1st prizes and three 2nd prizes for knitting at the

Top left: Having a sit down in the sun were Trish Murphy and Lily Doyle. Top right: The Wexford Fife and Drum band.

Cleere.

Shortle. Above right: Enjoying the sunshine at the

Kinsella.

left: Nuala Kehoe, Edel Doyle

Below right: Mad about flowers

: Lauren, Lena

Show.

FCJ

Bunclody Graduation

11th August 2024

PAT’S PICTURE PARADE

OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

Róisín Carroll, Elaine Breen and Niamh Donohoe.

Caoimhe Kehoe, Cait Nolan and Teegan Roche.

Above: Daniel Cronin and Emer Deacon. Below: Rebecca Kavanagh, Lauren Smyth and Katie Bowe.

Above: Algelica McGee and Gemma Hassey. Below: Alex Byrne, Stephanie Deegan, Olivia Brownrigg and Leah Murphy.

Calling

Scouts, Guides and Brownies

Above L-R: Jessica Bolton-Lee and Darragh Mansfield. Bill Quigley and Orlagh Byrne. Zara Kennedy and Charlie Donnelly.

New choirs seeking new members

Creative Places Enniscorthy is thrilled to be supporting Enniscorthy’s new men’s choir which commenced on 2nd September at 7pm, at Templeshannon Community Centre, as part of its open call.

Creative Places Enniscorthy is delighted to be working with the local community as part of this project and wants to thank Linda and Seamus for their dedication and organising.

All are welcome to participate – no auditions. Enjoy singing your favourite songs while making new friends

Please contact 087 2930510 for more details.

For more information on Creative Places Enniscorthy please visit the website creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie n

10.30am

Starting on 12th September

Enniscorthy Musical Society news...

2024 was a hugely successful year for Enniscorthy Musical Society under Chairperson Tina Doyle and a new committee.

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 April 2025 – the popular Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.

Auditions for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat will take place on 22nd September in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy. A Dance Workshop for all interested in being part of the cast and chorus will be held at 1pm. Attendance at this workshop is mandatory for anyone who wants to join the show.

A registration of interest form is available now so be sure to register early to receive your audition pack in time to prepare.

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. Pic: Peter Gaynor Photography. www.petergaynor.com

Bunclody Community College Grad Ball

PAT’S PICTURE PARADE

LOTS MORE PHOTOS BY PAT O’CONNOR IN NEXT MONTH’S ISSUE

087-2870006

Ferrycarrig Hotel

14th August 2024

Above left: Ruby Rellis and Joshua O’Leary.

Above right: Daire Keeley, Liam Sunderland, James Murphy, Principal, James Kenny, James Farrell and Joshua O’Leary.

Left: Megan Tobin and Patrick Ryan.

Right: Liam Sunderland and Eabha Duignam.

Below left: Jason Hosey-Doyle and Arkin Larkin.

Below centre: Marie O’Neill, Niamh Redmond and Dianne Sinnott.

Below right: Carlotte O’Gorman and Katie Lett.

WEXFORD GUITARIST’S 15th ALBUM

Respected Wexford guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer Michael Egan will launch his fifteenth album in Murphy’s Barn , New Line Road, Co. Wexford at 8:30pm, September 24th.

Entitled If That’s Me, Then Who Am I, Egan will also entertain guests with a solo performance featuring himself on vocals and guitar.

If That’s Me, Then Who Am I contains ten new original songs and music industry insiders are already singling out ‘In My Life’, ‘While You Were Sleeping’ and Clowns’ https://michaelegan.bandcamp.com/track/clowns for special attention.

The album also features a specially-selected band of Wexford musicians, with Imelda Kehoe on backing vocals, Declan Turley on piano and Sean O’Leary on drums. He’s worked with all of them before, a factor that might have helped give the album a very cohesive feel.

Egan himself explains the writing and recording process as follows. “Over time I gather ideas for songs and had about 25 demos before setting aside studio time to work on them for this album. I don’t wait for inspiration. This time we captured each song in one or two takes. I’m more interested in the emotional feel of a track rather than looking for technical brilliance. Working with those musicians was a real treat, as most of the tracks on

the album were done in one or two takes. As we’re all both friends and colleagues there’s room for happy accidents, so I’m delighted with how it turned out.”

He admits that ‘Clowns’ is his own personal favourite on the album. “In all, the album took about a year. I’m not so bothered by the response to it, so long as it delivers what I intended.”

Based near Piercestown in the south of

the county, Egan started playing guitar in 1979 and began writing his own material in 1984 before getting into record production in the early nineties. He now plays acoustic and electric guitars, keyboards and bass guitar and is much in demand for work with other musicians, having played with Pierce Turner, Imelda Kehoe and JMA, with whom he will present a special tribute show based on the songs of Bob Dylan and Neil Young on September 21st in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy. n

Mick Egan

Above L-R: Liwla Swiatek and Ruby Rellis. Abbie Walsh, Blaithin Cowman, Amy Bolger, Sophie Roche and Grace Tobin.

Enniscorthy Flower Festival

Lymington Road - Enniscorthy Phone: 053 9236055

enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthylibrary

Enniscorthy & Monart Union of Parishes Flower Festival is looking forward to welcoming visitors to St. Mary’s Church, Enniscorthy, from Friday 13th – Sunday 15th September.

The flower festival is being run in conjunction with Co. Wexford Garden and Flower Club, who are working extremely hard planning over fifty beautiful floral arrangements to adorn the church.

Canon Nicola Halford tells us: "We are excited to showcase our wonderful church and the talent and creativity of the flower arrangers. The theme of our flower festival is ‘Harvest – all things bright and beautiful’ and it will be a celebration of community and thanksgiving for all of God’s goodness to us."

Tickets to the festival are available on the door at St. Mary’s Church and the cost is €10 per person which includes a festival programme and refreshments in the Church Institute, following your visit to the church. There will also be an opportunity to purchase homemade produce and plants in the Church Institute.

The festival will conclude on Sunday 15th September at 6pm with an Ecumenical Harvest Thanksgiving Service. The service will be led by clergy and church leaders from the town and is being organised in conjunction with the IFA. The preacher will be Bishop Ger Nash.

Canon Nicola says, "All are welcome to join us for this magnificent display of flowers and creativity. Don’t miss out!"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) recently 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

THE LEO CARTHY WEEKEND

Our Lady’s Island village, 4th August 2024 PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER

Cllr. Ger Carthy, one of the organisers, with Eileen Burke, Marie Mullins and Tereasa Rea.

Having fun on the swings were Ben O’Toole, Daniele and Nicola Power.

Above: A legend of Wexford hurling is the great Ned Buggy. Below: Cecine Treacy competed in the 6km fun run.

Aoife Pettitt, Karla Reid, Abbie Walsh and Kayleigh Butler.

Niall Sheil, Michael Freeman and Leo Coy, Chief Marshal.

PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER

PAT O’CONNOR

087-2870006

Top left: Roving Reporter Michael Freeman caught up with Verona Murphy TD and Joe Druhan.

Top centre and top right: Young and not-so-young at the tractor run.

Above left, left and below left: The Leo Carthy 6km fun run.

Above right: Laura Wallace and her dad Alan.

Right and below right: The popular tractor run.

Below centre: Musicians Pat Doyle and Frank Byrne.

Dollies delve into art

The Delightful Dollies women's community group, Enniscorthy, recently undertook 16 weeks of art classes run by art facilitator Mary Joel.

Top left: Mags Piggott. Top centre: Bridget Cooper. Top right: Mary Joel, art facilitator, shows the brush strokes to Mags Piggott and Marie O’Sullivan. Left: Kay Roche with her art. Right: Annette Kearney. Far right: Joan Coxon. Below left: A happy trio of Ita Kinnaird, Theresa O’Connor and Tracey Cowman. Below centre: Jane Buckley with Mary Joel. Below right: Kay Leacy and Mary Joel.

PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

Honda 50 enthusiasts fundraising for Hope Centre

Members of South East Honda 50 Club will undertake a 32 County Charity Trip from Sept 5th to Sept 8th 2024 in aid of the Hope Cancer Support Centre in Enniscorthy.

Ten Honda 50s will leave Enniscorthy to visit each of the 32 counties of Ireland. They will travel to Co. Kerry on day one, to Sligo on day 2, the Six Counties on day 3, and then back to Enniscorthy on day 4.

The Journey will be excess of 1,300kms and is a challenge for rider and machine, with the little bikes averaging 35mph.

Needless to say all ten participants are looking forward to the challenge.

RTE’s Nationwide programme came down to Enniscorthy to record a piece about the Honda 50 Club and the Honda 50 32-County Charity Trip. This recording was broadcast on RTE on the 10th April 2024. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/bernie.trav ers.1/videos/297717140017787

Check out the charity trip Facebook page for more details: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php ?id=61556764437539

Contribute on:

https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/Sou thEastHonda50Club n

South East Honda 50 Club is rarin’ to go!

A tribute to Neil Young & Bob Dylan

J.M.A return to The Presentation Arts Centre on 21st September 2024 with their renowned Bob Dylan/Neil Young tribute night.

In a stunning show, J.M.A will pay homage to Bob Dylan and Neil Young’s greatest music featuring performances of classics such as: "Like A Rolling Stone", "Baby Please Stop Crying", "Just Like A Woman", "Cortez the Killer", "Hey Hey My My" and many more, including some slightly lesser known album tracks.

J.M.A take the songs of the masters and add their own unique edge to the mix. Their sound is based around the vocals of James & Anne Meyler, richly laden with harmony, combined with superb guitar work from Michael Egan. Add in fantastic rhythms courtesy of Keith Devereux on drums and Kris Tierney on bass and you have a very exciting and unique sound which makes for a wonderful night’s entertainment.

Join J.M.A for a terrific journey through Bob Dylan and Neil Young’s long and varied careers.

Doors open at 7:30pm. n

‘If

you would like to see my show come to a spot near you, be sure to ask your local venue!’

ALIEN ROMULUS

Movie Review by Kyle Walsh 

I went to Wexford Omniplex Cinema the other night feeling very excited. I was going to see one of my most anticipated movies of the year Alien Romulus. I am a huge fan of the absolute classics Ridley Scott’s Alien and James Cameron’s Aliens. Aliens for me personally has always been my favourite between them. I would watch them over and over again. Then in recent times we have seen some awful Alien movies. I feel every entry in the franchise since Aliens has been rubbish and a cash cow. Then when you thought things could not get any worse for Alien, the powers of the studios in Hollywood decided let’s put Alien v Predator in a few films. Absolute crap again. Predator was a 80s classic sci-fi / action movie starring the action icon Arnold Schwarzenegger. Once again another example of how Hollywood works. Why oh why would you try to destroy the legacy of great films like Alien, Aliens, and Predator.

Then a few years ago I learned that they were working on a new Predator movie called Prey. I thought what is the point. I felt it was just going to be another stupid idea. How wrong was I. This turned out to be a really good exciting solid Predator movie. I had a great time with it. It is the best Predator movie since the original hands down. So, when it was published that Fede Alvarez was writing and directing a new addition to the Alien franchise I started to get excited. I am familiar with his work and I felt he would be a perfect fit for this movie. He brings an atmosphere to his movies which I felt would suit the lure of the Alien saga. I was interested to see where he would go with the story. Here is the story.

Decades after the events of the Nostromo, a group of miners on a distant space colony attempt to retrieve cryopods from a deserted ship. They soon find out that they’re not alone. No one can hear them scream in space as they realise the ship is overrun with mysterious aliens. The fight for survival is on. Who will escape the clutches of the Aliens. Sounds exciting and it should be. It fell flat for me. I found myself bored and not caring about any of the characters. The first 40 minutes just dragged by. The story is so weak. The dialogue horrendous and the delivery of dialogue even worse. The acting was weak on all levels. Seriously, is this the best they could do with this franchise. I, like so many other Alien fans, just want something magical like Alien or Aliens but I feel we will be waiting a very long time.

It has some really good CGI but you expect that these days. The creatures looked good too. This film was not scary or exciting. It was a huge miss like so many other movies this year. I went into this excited and I came out of it bored and angry. They had the nerve to put a famous movie quote said by the great Sigourney Weaver in Aliens, into the end of this, said by one of the worst characters I have seen in a film all year. It was so cringe I just rolled my eyes and cursed out loud. I just couldn’t believe they had done that. They also pushed the boat out with the last ten minutes which for me just did not work. I forgot about this film within a few minutes of coming out of the cinema. Big disappointment. It gets a 4/10 from me. n

Enniscorthy Arts & Culture F

To keep up to date with Enniscorthy’s newest festival, check out the ‘Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival’ Facebook page: https://www. facebook.co m/profile.php

?id=6156174 6337551

Festival 20-22 September 2024

The first ever Arts & Culture Festival in Enniscorthy will take place 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.

The committee envisages the Arts & Culture Festival becoming an annual event in the town and a lasting legacy of Enniscorthy Drama Group. n

Enniscorthy singing the Blues for 30 Years by Maria Nolan

This year we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Blackstairs Blues Festival in Enniscorthy, a testament to the calibre of the festival, the amazing talent it has attracted over the years and the diligent, compact, and hard-working festival committee.

What an achievement for those visionary members who have been involved with the festival over many years, Ibar Carty, Sean Og Doyle, John Murphy, Mairead Ennis, Eamonn Doyle and others. Little did we think back in 1994 that 30 years later Enniscorthy would still be singing the blues and loving it.

At the launch of this year’s festival in Rackard’s on Thursday 22nd August, MC Ibar Carty thanked all their wonderful sponsors particularly Heineken, along with Failte Ireland, Holohans, Enniscorthy Credit Union, Super Dine, Wexford County Council, Aircon Mech, Enniscorthy Air, Pettitt’s SuperValu and C&R Print, for their loyalty and support and outlined their amazing festival lineup featuring Classic, Delta, Bluegrass, and Roots, that will have our local establishments – Stamps, Antique Tavern, The Hole in the Wall, Rackards, Donohoes, Brennans, Treacys Hotel, Creative Grounds, Dawsons, and Holohans, strummin’ and hummin’ over the weekend of 13th/14th/15th September.

The large audience who gathered to applaud and hail the thirty-year success were treated to a delightful mixture of roots and blues along with some of his own unique compositions by the lyrical KJ McEvoy accompanied by the very talented Graham Moore – and if this was just a sample of what’s to come then we are in for a blazing Blues weekend as always n

At the official launch on 22nd August 2024 in Rackard’s pub, Enniscorthy, of this year’s Blackstairs Blues Festival were...

Top: Senan Carty, John Murphy and Ibar Carty. Above: Graham Moore and KJ McEvoy providing the music at the launch. Below: Festival venue hosts, organisers, and musicians, at the launch.

Best wishes to Leona Breen who will be running Zumba classes in Enniscorthy starting on Tuesday, 3rd September, at 7pm at the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy.

Leona tells us, “I have always loved to dance and what better way to exercise than to incorporate something that you love. My own weight loss journey led me to this, losing six stone and gaining in confidence. I would love to be part of your journey, whether it's for weight loss, fitness, dancing or just to have fun.”

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php ?id=61564295611538 n

The Plough and the Stars – time to shine for Enniscorthy’s young thespians

Enniscorthy Theatre Company is deep into rehearsals, working hard, and getting ready to bring Seán O’Casey’s powerful play, “The Plough and the Stars,” to life.

The all-youth production will be hitting the stage at The Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy on September 12th, 13th, and 14th. Doors open at 7.30pm, and the group promises everyone an unforgettable night of drama, emotion, and incredible performances!

So get your tickets now and support the town’s talented young actors! Visit presentationcentre.ie or call 053 9233000 to book your seats. n

At the official launch in Rackard’s pub, Enniscorthy, of this year’s Blackstairs Blues Festival were Maria Nolan, Kristyna Simko, Alfie O’Sullivan.

Leona Breen. Pic: Saran Barry Fitzpatrick.

Acko launches new album

Pics: Damien Smullen

Acko performs at the launch of his new album ‘Easy Journeys to Other Planets’ at Creative Grounds cafe in Enniscorthy.

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

Acko at the launch in Creative Grounds cafe Enniscorthy.

Enniscorthy Retirement Association

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Well known Wexford singer Sharon Clancy will be appearing at Frank’s Place, Main Street, Wexford, at 8.30pm on Friday, September 27th 2024. Born and raised in Wexford, Sharon has enjoyed an enviable, international career, appearing for many years in leading musicals in London’s West End, together with headline international performances. Most recently, Sharon headlined at the Aberjazz Festival in Wales. Sharon’s particular brand of theatrical jazz combines classic tunes with original material, performed in her own inimitable, entertaining style, appealing to audiences of all ages. Joining Sharon for this great show will be international pianist Tony Rex, the fabulous Vicky Clancy on Clarinet and Flute, and highly-talented Kilkenny Bass player Adrian Jackson. Tickets €15 each available from Wexford Arts Centre box office at www.wexfordartscentre.ie or phone 053 912 3764. For pre-show dinner reservations, please contact Frank’s Place – email hello@franksplace1860.ie or phone 053 91 89109 (diners will need to purchase a show ticket directly with the Wexford Arts Centre Box Office). n

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.

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 had a break for the summer and the next meeting is on today, 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

What’s On Wexford

Check out

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

Patricia and Beata from Enniscorthy Library

Sharon and Vicky Clancy at last month’s Aberjazz Festival in Wales.

Pairc na gCon children get active

Up to 30 children, aged from 5 to 15 years, from Pairc na gCon in Enniscorthy recently participated in a sports programme which introduced them to GAA sporting activities. Organised by Ray Harris, Wexford GAA Games Development Manager, and Garret Kavanagh from Rapparees/Starlights GAA Club, the event ran every Wednesday in August on the green area in the estate.

The idea for the programme came from the newly formed Enniscorthy Community Interagency Team with Wexford County Council’s Sláintecare Healthy Communities Programme, Sports Active Wexford, Wexford Local Development and Clúid Housing working together with the GAA. The idea came about following a concern that many children are not participating in sports. The hope with this programme was that by bringing sport into estates, children and parents will engage with the project and hopefully lead to children joining local sports clubs.

Ray Harris from Wexford GAA stated that: "Wexford GAA, as part of our strategic plan, aim to offer GAA activities to as many children in the county as possible. The FEAST programme in conjunction with Rapparees Starlights GAA club and its expansion into Pairc na gCon offered our coaching team an opportunity to bring GAA to the doorstep of children. Rapparees Starlights initiative and innovation is ensuring the ethos of the GAA ‘Where we all belong’ is echoed within our communities.”

Anna Flynn, Sports Inclusion Disability Officer with Sports Active Wexford added: “Having an integration programme like this is wonderful for children to experience – especially if they are apprehensive about trying a new sport or joining a new club. In some circumstances likes this – bringing the activities to their door can be a great approach to encourage young children to live a happy and healthy life. It is great to have the likes of Raparees Starlights GAA Club and Wexford GAA to support the delivery of this programme.”

Feedback from both parents and the children has been extremely positive

with many children hoping to pay a visit to Bellefield. To welcome them, Rapparees Starlights GAA Club and Sacre Coeur Boxing Club extended an invitation to all Pairc na gCon children and parents who had participated in the FEAST activities to games, music, dancing and a BBQ on Saturday 24th August.

Speaking on the success of the project, Ann Marie Laffan, Slaintecare Health Communities Programme Manager, thanked everyone involved in making these events such a success. She added:

“It was a fun-packed four weeks and there was a great feel-good factor to the activities thanks to the GAA coaches who really engaged so well with the children. Through collaborative working which is led by Enniscorthy Interagency Team, we plan to continue to work together with our partners on this project and expand on what we are doing in Enniscorthy. Through sport there is a great opportunity to engage with young people and help them improve their health and wellbeing.” n

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

Disney event at Wheelocks

The Village at Wheelocks, 16th August 2024

Above left: “I got me a Baby Shark and I’m not letting go!” says young Cúan Mullan. Above centre: All on board for the parade. Above right: The Minions were very popular with the kids at Wheelocks.

Above left: Baby Shark with Albie Henderson and Sophea Canning. Above centre: On the Pink Side were Peppa Pig, Sadie Kirwan and Katie Tobin. Above right: The Disney "Yellow vs. Pink" Show in Wheelocks: The "Frozen" Friends with Corie, Liam and Ciara Walsh.

Above left: A bit "Frozen" were Molly Higgins and Conor Farrell. Above centre: Enjoying the show were Ava, Leanne and Ruairi Dunne. Above right: Getting her face painted was Leah Conway with her mam Nicole and facepainter Ciara McDonald.

The Marshal Train.

SpongeBob SquarePants

Local author set for book festival discussion on fostering

Sadie Harpur, the Gorey author of the recently-published memoir, The Hidden World of a Foster-Girl, will be interviewed at the Write By The Sea Festival in Kilmore Quay, Co. Wexford, as part of a discussion on The World of Fostering.

The author, who was fostered to a family in Mount Merrion in Dublin, will share the platform with Fiona Neary, author of Parcels in the Post: Growing Up With Fifty Siblings. Sadie and Fiona will chat with social worker Geraldine Quigley about their lived experiences of the Irish fostering system, very much a current public topic after three top Irish judges made public criticisms of the system.

The World of Fostering event will take place at 3 pm on Saturday, 28th September, in the Saltees Coast Hotel, Kilmore Quay. Tickets are now on sale on www.writebythesea.ie for €10, with Day Passes available for the full day’s events costing €75.

After the launch of Sadie Harpur’s The

Hidden World of a Foster-Girl, the Lord Mayor of Dublin invited her to address a specially-invited audience of care workers in the Mansion House. She has also had her poems published in two anthologies of Wexford Women Writing Undercover.

As she explains, Sadie went through turbulent periods of high anxiety. Suffering from learning difficulties resulting from undiagnosed dyslexia, she was described as mentally below average, and suffered bouts of depression, suicidal thoughts and was repeatedly bullied. She endured self-harming, violent outbursts, zero self-esteem, and the eventual suicide of her foster-brother Gary.

“The Hidden World of a Foster-Girl is a gut-wrenching read, pulling at every heart string. Hugely powerful, it’s a memoir about the anxieties of growing up in foster care in Ireland.” (Niamh Browne – Hot Press).

Grace O’Reilly on www.writing.ie wrote, “Sadie is an inspiration to many and I sincerely hope that she is proud of both how far she has come in her life, and of writing her true-life story to help others both now and in the future … overall my heart ached for her.”

The Irish Foster Care Association have described her book as “inspirational”. n

Gorey author to adapt her poetry for music CD

Regina Redmond from Gorey, who launched her first book of poetry Buried Deep is the Child, in May 2024, has announced plans to adapt the poems in her collection for a musical CD in collaboration with Wexford writers and musicians.

Subtitled A Healing Journey, Regina’s book highlights the path she has taken from darkness into the light of recovery following a traumatic childhood. As she explains, “Writing my poems has always had a therapeutic value for me and publishing them was somehow liberating. Now, since the healing power of music has long been established it seemed that adding music to my poems is a logical and valuable next step for me as I continue on my exploratory journey.”

Buried Deep is the Child - A Healing

Journey is published by Carol Boland of Boland Press and it has resonated deeply with those who love poetry that comes from the heart. But it has also attracted a very positive and appreciative response from others who have suffered childhood trauma.

“I’ve been gratified by suggestions that I should deliver talks in libraries along the East Coast as well as to schools and relevant community groups,” Regina says, “So I’m also looking at setting up a schedule of speaking events for the Autumn and Winter. It’s been a hugely worthwhile and rewarding adventure for me beyond any dreams I might have had.”

For further information contact Regina Redmond: redmond_gina@yahoo.co.uk n

Regina Redmond

Sadie Harpur. Pic: Nick Di Raimondo.

Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle

All are invited!

During the Arts & Culture Festival 20th – 22nd September actor, director, playwright and historic tour guide Fintan Kelly will be launching my 4th book, the first in the Shadow Series – The Shadow of the Pike.

I am delighted that Fintan has agreed to launch my book for me as Fintan is of the town like myself, and likes my books, and is and has been a major contributor to arts and culture in the town for many years and I am certain that I couldn’t get a more appropriate person to do the job.

The Shadow of the Pike will be launched at a Coffee Morning in the Presentation Centre on Saturday 21st September at 11am and all are welcome.

The Shadow of the Pike is a most intriguing tale of 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.

Prior to the Launch I will be travelling to Texas and the Alamo where I will be meeting a Professor of English at Tarrant County College, Arlington, Texas, Professor Violet O’Valle who has written a play about the Wexford Texas connection.

So stay tuned, I may have some exciting news to announce at the Book Launch – looking forward to seeing you all there and thank you most sincerely for your continued support.

– Maria Nolan

Nolan

Maria

From hundreds of entries, the shortlists of this year’s AIB Portrait Prize and AIB Young Portrait Prize have been announced by the National Gallery of Ireland. Two Wexford artists have been named among the 26 artists from across the country shortlisted for the AIB Portrait Prize: Caolán Barron with his photograph titled Isabella Gerbola, Circus Gerbola, Tramore, 2023 (see right), and Darragh O’Connell with John and Fionnán, a work in oil on canvas (see below). Darragh is from Tomhaggard and Caolán is from Wexford Town.

The AIB Portrait Prize shortlist includes painting, drawing, sculpture, video and photography demonstrating the breadth of contemporary Irish art. The winner of the AIB Portrait Prize will receive a cash prize of €15,000 and will be commissioned to create a work for the national portrait collection, for which they will be awarded a further €5,000. Two additional awards of €1,500 will be given to highly commended works.

Judges for the AIB Portrait Prize are: Hughie O’Donoghue, artist, painter and writer; Emer McGarry, Director of The Model, Sligo; and Simon O’Connor, Director of the Museum of Literature Ireland.

The AIB Young Portrait Prize returns for its sixth year in 2024 as a showcase for the artistic talent of young people from across the island of Ireland. Five winners (one from each respective age category and an overall winner) will be selected from a shortlist of hundreds of entries from young people aged three to eighteen. Winners will receive a bespoke art box and a cash

Two Wexford artists shortlisted for AIB Portrait Prize at the National Gallery of Ireland

prize. The overall competition winner will be awarded a personalised wooden box of high-quality art materials and a cash prize of €500. All twenty shortlisted entrants will have their artwork professionally framed/prepared. This year’s AIB Young Portrait Prize judges are: Ashwin Chacko, author-illustrator and motivational speaker; Emmalene Blake, a visual street artist, renowned for their largescale portraits; and Sheena Barrett, Head of Research and Learning at the Irish Museum of Modern Art.

Exhibitions of the shortlisted works in both competitions run at the National Gallery of Ireland from 9 November 2024 – 9 March 2025. The winners of the Prizes will be announced at a ceremony to be held in the National Gallery of Ireland on 27 November 2024. n

Enniscorthy Library

Email: enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie

Phone: 053 9236055

OPENING HOURS:

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

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.

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. n

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.

Caroline

Caroline Busher to launch her new book

Book launch time! Local author Caroline Busher is inviting all to join her in celebrating the launch of her brand new book "The Boy Who Slipped Through Time" on Saturday 14th September at 2.30pm in the wonderful library in the heart of Wexford town.

Caroline tells us, “I am delighted that Billy Roche will be launching it in Wexford. I will be signing copies of the book on the day and will answer questions on writing books and being an author! It's going to be so much fun. There will be light refreshments on the day. Yes, that means cake!! I hope to see you there!!”

Caroline thanks Eason Ireland and Poolbeg Books for all their support for her new book which can be pre-ordered online now at:

https://www.easons.com/boy-whoslipped-through-time-caroline-busher9781781996959

And will ship on 5th September 2024. n

The Centre of Everything

Wexford County Council Arts Department in partnership with Wexford Arts Centre are pleased to present The Centre of Everything, a group exhibition featuring work by artists participating in Arts Ability, an arts and health initiative of Wexford County Council, the HSE, and Wexford Mental Health Association. The exhibition will run in at Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford, from Monday 26 August to Friday 27 September, 2024.

The Centre of Everything celebrates the creative work of over fifty artists who participate in Arts Ability. It also marks the twentieth anniversary since the establishment of the programme.

Arts Ability engages people who experience long-term mental health and/or intellectual disabilities in a range of creative experiences and support their development as artists. The programme is led by the Arts Department of Wexford County Council in partnership with the HSE and Wexford Mental Health Association. It operates in centres across the county including KTAC (Killagoley Training & Activation Centre) in Enniscorthy, CUMAS in New Ross, and WRIDS (Wexford Residential and Intellectual Disability Service) in Enniscorthy as well as a variety of day and residential centres county wide. It is facilitated by visual artists Oonagh Latchford, Declan

An exhibition of works by artists participating in Arts Ability, an arts and health initiative of Wexford County Council, the HSE, and Wexford Mental Health Association.

Curated by Mary Grehan.

Venue: Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford.

26 August – 27 September, 2024.

Kennedy and Jeni Roddy, storyteller and writer Joe Brennan and musician Emily Redmond with the support of the HSE staff in each centre.

The exhibition was curated by Mary Grehan who says, ‘What was especially exciting for me when I encountered the artwork produced through the Arts Ability programme for the first time was the consistency of choices made by the artists. It took little exposure to the work to recognise the individual signature of the various artists. What was doubly fascinating was the choreography involved in the making process, the consistent sequence of moves some artists apply to making work or the way others produced certain images again and again leading to a sort of repeat pattern when their work is seen as a whole, and this is something we played with in presenting it. The final exhibition is brimming with colour, texture, wit, pattern, story, and the sheer joy in the act of creating.’

Left:

Jimmy Sinnott Garden Acrylic & Posca Markers on Canvas.

Below:

Ray Boucher The Little Red House Acrylic on Canvas 25x35cm.

Right:

Richard O'Brien Brucie Chalk Pastel on Paper 53x43cm

The paintings, drawings, sculpture, writings and music on display in The Centre of Everything are not only an expression of the artists who created them, but also testament to a successful long-term partnership between the Arts Department of Wexford County Council, the HSE, and Wexford Mental Health Association. It is also a testimony to the commitment of the staff and facilitating artists who work at providing and protecting a creative space in the various centres for the Arts Ability artists on a year-round basis.

Mary Grehan is a writer, curator and arts manager who specialises in working in healthcare settings. She is responsible for commissioning artworks by Remco de Fouw, Vera Klute and others for the new children’s hospital in Dublin. She is former Director of the Waterford Healing Arts Trust and her debut novel was published by Penguin Ireland.

Arts Ability is an arts and health initiative led by the Arts Department of Wexford County Council in partnership with the HSE, and Wexford Mental Health Association.

The Centre of Everything will run in Wexford County Council, Carricklawn until Friday 27th September 2024. Opening hours are 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday.

For further information on Arts Ability please log on to www.artsability.ie n

Step inside ‘vivid new worlds’

Edge of Range

A solo exhibition by Laura Ní Fhlaibhín

Curated by Catherine Bowe

Wexford Arts Centre 27 August – 3 October 2024

Wexford Arts Centre is pleased to present Edge of Range by artist Laura Ní Fhlaibhín. The exhibition will run in the lower and upper galleries from Tuesday 27 August to Thursday 3 October, 2024.

Ní Fhlaibhín’s practice makes space for the more than human within art-institution settings; gallery spaces become incubators for living things such as earthworms, leopard slugs, and willow trees. Working across sculpture, installation, writing, and drawing, embodied care is both represented and inscribed in the material and narratives that are interwoven in her sculptural assemblages.

For this exhibition, Ní Fhlaibhín has focused on the cotton weed plant which is a distinctive species recognised by its dense covering of white, cottony hairs and yellow flower heads. In her early research conducted with Tony Murray, Wexford National Park Wildlife Service Ranger, the term ‘edge of range’ resonated and lingered with the artist. The term refers to a biological concept that denotes the vulnerabilities that take hold at the edges and limits of an ecology. At present, the cotton weed plant is in a perilous state all across Europe, completely extinct in temperate biomes across Ireland and the UK, except for a patch of sand dunes at Our Lady’s Island. The last stand for the survival of the cotton weed is happening less than twenty kilometers from Wexford Arts Centre. The exhibition traces the story of this near extinction through a symbiotic sculptural installation, wall-based works, and ongoing dialogues with human allies of the cottonweed.

Ní Fhlaibhín builds installations that operate as symbiotic ecosystems, sculptural assemblages giving structural and biological support; such as a network of soil pipes filled with worm bedding materials or a medicinal, and warming alcoholic tincture offered to gallery visitors over the course of an exhibition. Her assemblages function as nourishing hosts for growth and invite guardianship from the art-institution hosts. The looming threats of the environmental crisis and biodiversity loss echo through the work, and through the artist’s attention towards the material entanglements of our worlds, across species and things, she points to vibrant and nourishing kinships that can emerge from such alliances.

Laura Ní Fhlaibhín, an artist from Wexford, completed her MFA at Goldsmiths, University of London, in 2019, and her BA at the National College of Art and Design, Dublin, in 2013. Laura is a Gilbert Bayes Royal Society of Sculptors Award U.K. recipient 2024 and has been awarded the 2025 Derek Hill Foundation residency at the British School of Rome. She was the recipient of the Goldsmiths Almacantar Bursary 2019, and

was awarded the Next Generation Award 2020 from the Arts Council of Ireland. She received the Arts Council of England ‘Developing Creative Practice Award 2021’, and the Arts Council of Ireland Visual Artist Bursary in 2021 and in 2022.

Recent selected exhibitions include ‘Painkiller’, a solo show at Commonage Projects London, 2024, curated by Séamus Mc Cormack; ‘Banana Accelerationism’, a two-person show with Sean Lynch, curated by Mark O’Gorman at The Complex, Dublin, 2024; ‘Wet suction spins forever’, a two person show at Belmacz, London 2023; ’Wet Wishes’ a solo show at Britta Rettberg Gallery, Munich 2023; and ‘Materials for virtue/Incandescent flare’, a group show at Britta Rettberg Gallery, Munich 2022, curated by Àngels Miralda.

Gallery hours are Tuesday to Friday from 10am – 5pm and Saturday from 10am – 4pm. n

This image was published by the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland in their journal British & Irish Botany 4(3): 248-272 (2022), and originally as two plates by Cecil Hurst in Memoirs and Proceedings of the Manchester Literary & Philosophical Society (Manchester Memoirs) 46 (1): 1-8 (1901). The image was then referenced by Tony Murray and Dr. Mike Wise Jackson in their paper 'The history, status and conservation management of Cottonweed Achillea maritima (Otanthus maritimus) (Asteraceae) at Lady’s Island Lake'.

Make art, not war

Are you a refugee of conflict living in Ireland with a story to tell through your art? Creative Grounds in Enniscorthy invites you to submit your artwork for a special exhibition showcasing the resilience, hope, and experiences of refugees.

Creative Grounds is looking for artwork in all mediums that reflects the journeys, emotions, and perspectives of those who have experienced the impact of conflict and displacement.

This exhibition aims to provide a platform for refugee artists to share their unique voices and connect with the community through their creative expressions.

Closing date for submissions: 6th September 2024.

Submission enquiries (WhatsApp): 087 1884651. n

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES

Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764. The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000. Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529.

‘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. The exhibition runs to 7th September so there is still time to catch it.

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 until September 7th 2024. n

Tried-Tested-Tasted by Caitriona

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

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

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

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

MEDITERRANEAN TUNA PIZZA

INGREDIENTS:

 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon olive oil, divided

 1 teaspoon corn meal

 12-inch flatbread or pizza crust

 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning

 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna packed in olive oil (light or albacore), flaked

 ¼ small red onion or scallion, thinly sliced

 ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved

 1 cup arugula

 1 cup shredded mozzarella

 ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

 ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper

 ½ cup torn basil leaves, optional

 ½ teaspoon lemon zest, optional

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat oven to 200 degrees celsius. Prepare round pizza pan by brushing with 1 teaspoon of olive oil on pan, then sprinkle cornmeal over olive oil.

Place flatbread or prepared pizza crust on pan. Brush on remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil on top of crust, then sprinkle on Italian herbs. Top with flaked tuna, red onion, olives and arugula. Spread mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over toppings; sprinkle on crushed red pepper. Garnish with basil and/or lemon zest, if desired.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is melted. n

https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted

Caitriona Barron

Pic: Caitriona Barron.

ooted in exford

As September arrives, the garden begins to reflect the changing season. The days are growing shorter, the air a little crisper, and the pace of growth in the garden is starting to slow. While the vibrant energy of summer may be fading, there’s still plenty to do for those of us who can’t resist the urge to keep growing. This month, it’s time to consider moving some of your gardening efforts indoors or into the greenhouse, where you can continue to cultivate fresh produce even as autumn settles in.

One of the key aspects of September gardening is recognising that everything slows down. Plants take longer to mature, and the growth rate of many crops naturally decreases as temperatures drop and daylight hours diminish. However, this doesn’t mean the end of fresh homegrown produce. With a little planning and the right crops, your garden can still be productive, especially if you have access to a greenhouse or a sunny indoor space.

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.

Beetroot, for instance, is a great choice for this time of year. While many people grow beetroot for its roots, the young leaves also make excellent additions to salads. Sow beetroot seeds directly into pots or trays, keeping them in a greenhouse or a sunny windowsill. The seeds will germinate quickly, and within a few weeks you’ll be able to harvest the tender leaves. These can be used in salads or as a garnish, adding a splash of colour and a burst of earthy flavour.

Another fantastic option for September is perpetual spinach. Unlike traditional spinach, which tends to bolt in the heat of summer, perpetual spinach thrives in cooler conditions and can provide a steady supply of leaves throughout the winter. Sow the seeds in a greenhouse or cold frame and keep the soil consistently moist. The leaves can be harvested continuously as they grow, giving you a reliable source of fresh greens well into the colder months.

If you’re looking to add some herbs to your indoor garden, thyme is an excellent choice. Thyme is a hardy herb that can be grown indoors on a sunny windowsill or in a greenhouse. It doesn’t require much space, and its relatively low maintenance. Simply sow the seeds in

well-drained soil and water sparingly – thyme prefers its soil on the dry side. Not only will thyme provide you with fragrant leaves for your cooking, but it also has the added benefit of being a perennial, meaning it will continue to grow and thrive year after year.

Pak choi is another vegetable that can be sown in September and grown successfully indoors or in a greenhouse. Pak choi, or Chinese cabbage, is a fastgrowing leafy green that’s perfect for stir-fries and soups. Sow the seeds in trays or pots and keep them in a cool, well-ventilated spot. Pak choi matures quickly, usually within 30-45 days, and the young leaves can be harvested early for a tender, mild-flavoured addition to your meals. Keep the plants wellwatered and be mindful of pests like aphids, which can be more common in indoor growing environments.

For a quick and easy crop that requires minimal effort, consider growing pea shoots. Pea shoots are a delightful addition to salads and sandwiches, with a sweet, delicate flavour reminiscent of fresh peas. To grow pea shoots, simply scatter dried peas in a shallow tray filled with compost and cover them lightly with soil. Keep the tray in a sunny spot, and within a couple

of weeks, you’ll have tender green shoots ready to harvest. Pea shoots grow quickly and don’t need much space, making them ideal for indoor growing.

As you transition your gardening efforts indoors this September, remember that patience is key. The garden naturally slows down as the season progresses, but with the right crops and a bit of care, you can continue to enjoy fresh, homegrown produce even as the weather cools. By focusing on versatile, fast-growing plants like beetroot, perpetual spinach, thyme, pak choi, and pea shoots, you’ll keep your green thumb busy, and your kitchen stocked with fresh ingredients.

For more tips on extending your growing season and to follow my gardening journey, be sure to follow me on Instagram @rootedinwexford. Here’s to a bountiful autumn harvest and a cozy, productive start to the cooler months ahead! 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

Fleadh for foodies

Tánaiste Micheál Martin TD was delighted to be presented with a Wexford Food Producers Network (WFPN) hamper to bring home from the 2024 Fleadh Cheoil in Wexford town.

Our photo shows Stacey Williams, CEO of the WFPN, making the presentation to Micheál Martin with Cynthia Ní Mhurchú MEP in the background. n

CONGRATS TO JOY AND BRENDAN CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF IMPRESSO CAFÉ AND WHAT A GENEROUS WAY TO MARK THIS MILESTONE –DONATING ALL COFFEE SALES NEXT WEDNESDAY MORNING, 4TH SEPTEMBER, TO ST PATRICK'S SCHOOL IN ENNISCORTHY.

Wexford has 17 finalists in Blas na hÉireann food awards

Now in its 16th year, Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards, is the biggest competition for quality Irish produce on the island of Ireland designed to recognise and celebrate the very best Irish food and drink.

These are rigorously-judged awards, as Blas na hÉireann uses an innovative blindtasting judging system developed by Blas with the Food Science Dept of UCC and the University of Copenhagen that is now recognised as an industry gold standard worldwide. Products entered are blind-tasted, meaning that all packaging and identifying features are removed from products before being presented for judging, creating a level playing field for products from both large and small producers. Judges come from a range of food backgrounds, from chefs to restaurateurs, academics, journalists, authors, food champions, caterers and enthusiastic home cooks.

A survey of past winners showed that 81% had seen an increase in sales after displaying the Blas na hÉireann sticker with 28% of those surveyed saying that they saw an increase in sales of over 20%. In the survey many winners noted the credibility that the awards gave to their products. Research has shown that the Blas accreditation has the highest recognition among Irish consumers and having the award logo on products encourages shoppers to buy – it is a recognised guarantee of a top quality Irish product.

“Blas na hÉireann awards have a quantifiable impact on any winner’s bottom line,” says Artie Clifford, Chairperson and founder of Blas na hÉireann, “whether it’s raising the profile of a producer’s product, or getting the attention of chefs, retailers or the general food-loving public. The independent endorsement of a Blas award is a recognised quality guarantee that can help get a product onto the shelves of a particular retailer or onto a restaurant menu. It’s also always a huge boost for an individual producer, an appreciation for all their hard work and a moment to savour their achievements in a busy and often pressurised working life... Our aim is to assist Irish producers to tell their stories by marking them out as special, and worth exploring.”

The finalists for Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards, 2024, have been announced and the great news is that 17 Wexford companies have been shortlisted. The finalists will discover their fate at the three-day event in Dingle, Co. Kerry, running from 3rd October to 5th October. The Co. Wexford finalists in alphabetical order are Bramble Cottage Kitchen, Elderberry Farm, Furlong’s Food Hall, Irish Country Meats, Isle of Crackers Ltd, Kelly’s Bakery, Killiane Castle Honey, Killowen Farm, Naturally Cordial Ltd, Pettitt's SuperValu, Regan Organic Produce, Ryan’s Bakery Wexford Ltd, Well Preserved Ltd, Wexford Home Preserves, Wexford Sea Salt, Zaeire Artisan Chocolates, and Zanna Cookhouse Ltd. n

KILLOWEN MAKING HEADLINES

Killowen Farm in Courtnacuddy, Enniscorthy, has been in the Dunne family for 200 years across nine generations and is presently run by brother and sister Nicholas and Pauline Dunne, making a range of delicious single-origin dairy yogurts with delicious fruit flavours, and they have also successfully introduced cream cheese to their product range.

The Farm has just won a prestigiuous Great Taste award for 2024 for its Greek Style Wexford Rhubarb Yogurt with the delicious rhubarb being supplied by Kehoes Farm in Enniscorthy.

It has recently been announced that the National Dairy Council is launching a new EU-funded campaign to promote yogurt and that Killowen Farm will feature prominently in the three-year campaign which will be run across four markets – Ireland, Germany, Belgium, and Denmark, promoting the health and versatility of yogurt as a great source of protein, calcium, phosphorus, iodine, vitamins B2 and B12 and as an incredibly versatile product in the kitchen for cooking or just to have as a healthy snack. n

Negative outlook for hospitality

 Very challenging operating environment for hospitality businesses with 13.5% VAT rate taking a serious toll

 77% of hospitality businesses report negative outlook for the next 12 months

 Food sales down 9% on average so far this year

 Operating costs across the sector up 16%

 91% of hospitality businesses report a fall in profitability on food sales

Tourism and hospitality groups have reiterated their call on the government to reinstate the 9% rate of VAT for hospitality food service businesses. These businesses are facing a “perfect storm” as they grapple with an increasingly challenging operating environment due to rising costs, falling food sales and very tight margins. This is being further compounded by the increased 13.5% VAT rate, which came into effect in September 2023.

Findings from recent industry research, looking at over 700 hospitality food service businesses, show that over three quarters (77%) now have a negative outlook for trading conditions over the next 12 months with businesses reporting a 9% average drop in the value of their food sales so far this year. Virtually all hospitality businesses surveyed (96%) say they have been negatively impacted by the 13.5% VAT rate while some 68% say it is having a very negative impact on their business.

The cost of doing business remains a persistent challenge, with hospitality businesses throughout the country reporting an average increase of 16% in operating costs year to date. This is largely driven by the Government’s economic policies, including a series of employment-related cost increases – the impact of which has been particularly acute for given the labour-intensive nature of hospitality businesses.

As a result of the exceptionally challenging operating environment, many hospitality businesses have been forced to cut back on their operating capacity, leading to a reduction in the dining options available throughout the sector. Some 46% of businesses say they have reduced their opening hours while over a quarter (26%) say they have reduced the number of days they open. Meanwhile 59% of those surveyed said they had cut back on the range of their food offering.

Nine out of ten (91%) respondents report a fall in profitability for food-related services year to date. This is a major concern given the already very tight margins under which food service businesses are operating. They forecast an even more pronounced decline over the coming months, with food sales expected to be down 12% over the remainder of the year compared to the same period in 2023.

Industry representatives say further government inaction would pose enormous risks to hospitality which, as one of Ireland’s largest indigenous employers, supports over 270,000 livelihoods the length and breadth of this country. n

Lots on at the allotments...

“What a busy couple of months we are after having in Enniscorthy Community Allotments!” Gillian O’Neill, Secretary, Enniscorthy Community Allotments, reports...

We are holding 6 courses in our fabulous allotments this year thanks to the funding we received from the Reach grant. These courses have been an overwhelming success. Thank you to WWETB Community Education, coordinators Yvonne O’Connor and Caroline Howe and also Wexford Education and Training Board.

Our first course, Mindfulness, started on the 7th May with Hilary Connor. During the 8 weeks participants discussed and learned about staying present and mindful and thinking outside the box. They talked about the stress reaction cycle, becoming aware and how to deal with stress differently. They also discussed mindful communications and taking ownership of how they feel, self nourishment and finally endings and new beginnings. Hilary gave them some great tips for continuing on their Mindfulness journey. Everyone really enjoyed this course.

Our second course, an Introduction to Horticulture, kicked off on the 11th May with Mairead Dunne, assisted by Annette Byrne Moran and Nessa Byrne. During the 8 weeks they planted window boxes and hanging baskets, planted vegetables and pumpkins and even made their own planters. It was a very enjoyable course for everyone, a great introduction to gardening.

The Food Preservation course then started on 3rd July with Annika Schulz. During the 8 weeks the course participants learned about the equipment and tools required for food preservation, food safety, fermenting, canning, pickling, brewing nettle beer and dehydration. Everyone loved this course and are going to miss the Wednesday evening class.

On the 1st August our first Herbalist course started with Silja Harms which everyone is thoroughly enjoying. There was such huge interest in this course we are now holding 3 courses each running for 4 weeks to try and accommodate as many people as possible.

We are holding 2 Willow Weaving courses each running for 3 weeks with Sindy Offer, the first one started on the 7th August.

The creativity in this group is amazing, so far they have made fat ball holders for wild birds and baskets. Everyone is really enjoying getting their creative juices flowing.

Our final course, Plot to Pot, healthy cooking made easy with Carmen Shancez, starts on 4th September for 5 weeks in the state-of-the-art kitchen in Bunclody Further Education and Training Centre. Free transport to and from the venue is being provided from Enniscorthy Community Allotments car park.

We also have artist David Begley in association with Creative Places Enniscorthy on site working with different groups within the allotments and wider community. Our Little buds have had 2 workshops now with David learning all things gardening and how to draw with charcoal. We look forward to seeing what comes next.

It is absolutely amazing to have the resources we have on site to be able to provide such amazing courses. It is fantastic to see them being used and people availing of them, learning new skills and knowledge.

Artist Helen McClean along with some of the members from our allotment and the wider community are busy working on our Mosaic floor for our Dome in the community centre in Daphne View every Monday morning, and it is coming along beautifully. We are getting this done as part of the funding we received from the Creative Arts Challenge Fund. Thank you Elizabeth Howard, Creative Ireland Creative Communities Engagement, Wexford County Council.

As part of the Climate Action funding, we are getting solar spot lights, composting units, a wildlife and wetland feature, water harvesting, green waste shredder and some tools for our fabulous allotments. Thank you Wexford County Council.

We are hosting a Culture Night in the allotments on Friday 20th September from 6pm to 8pm in association with Creative Places Enniscorthy. Everyone is welcome to come along, we would love to see you there. n

Above: Mindfulness Course at Enniscorthy Community Allotments.

Horticulture Course.

Above: Food Preservation Course.

Above and below: Little Buds Artist Workshop.

Above and below: Willow weaving.

Herbalist Course.

Herbalist Course.

County Wexford Chamber supports Wexford Impact Fund

County Wexford Chamber is delighted to partner with Rethink Ireland on the launch of the Wexford Impact Fund. The Fund is a transformative initiative dedicated to driving positive change and fostering innovation in County Wexford. It is designed to support groundbreaking social enterprises and impactful community projects, making a real difference in the lives of people across Wexford.

Making a Difference

The Wexford Impact Fund is a philanthropic fund by Wexford people for Wexford people and is run by Rethink Ireland with GreenTechHQ as its first donor. The fund is now calling on visionary donors, especially individuals and Wexford businesses who share a passion for positive change, to join this exciting journey. By investing in this fund, donors will directly contribute to sustainable, impactful solutions that address the most pressing social challenges in the community.

Rethink Ireland’s mission is to raise a €500,000 fund, built from philanthropy (corporates, individuals, trusts and foundations) and match funding from the Government.

Wexford Impact Fund: Chamber support

“The Wexford Impact Fund represents a powerful opportunity for us to come together as a community and invest in our future,” said Paula Roche, CEO of County Wexford Chamber. “By supporting this fund, we are helping to drive meaningful change, foster innovation, and creating a better Wexford for generations to come. We are proud to partner with Rethink Ireland on this transformative initiative and call on all those who share our passion for progress to join us in making a lasting impact.”

Why Wexford?

Wexford is known as a vibrant and dynamic region with a rich cultural heritage, a strong sense of community, and

a wealth of untapped potential. Here’s why Rethink Ireland is focusing on Wexford:

Community Spirit: Wexford is renowned for its close-knit communities and a strong sense of solidarity. This provides a fertile ground for collaborative and impactful social initiatives.

Environmental Sustainability: Wexford has the natural resources and community interest needed to become a leader in sustainability. Investing in green social innovations will ensure long-term environmental health and resilience.

Driving Social Change

The Wexford Impact Fund aims to catalyse social change through:

Empowerment and Participation: By engaging local communities in decisionmaking processes and project implementation, the fund ensures that the solutions are tailored to the specific needs and aspirations of the people.

Innovation and Creativity: Supporting innovative ideas and creative approaches

to problem-solving can lead to more effective and sustainable solutions. The fund prioritises projects that push boundaries and explore new possibilities.

Collaboration and Partnerships: Building strong partnerships between social enterprises, local businesses, government bodies, and community organisations is crucial for achieving systemic change. The fund encourages collaborative efforts to maximise impact.

Capacity Building: Strengthening the skills, knowledge, and resources of individuals and organisations within the community fosters long-term resilience and self-sufficiency. The fund invests in training, mentoring, and capacity-building initiatives.

For more information about the Wexford Impact Fund or to join as a valued donor, please contact: Padraic Vallely, Senior Philanthropy & Development Manager, Rethink Ireland.

Email: padraic@rethinkireland.ie n

Pictured at the launch in GreenTechHQ, Enniscorthy, of the Wexford Impact Fund L-R: County Wexford Chamber CEO Paula Roche, Padraic Vallely, Senior Philanthropy & Development Manager, Rethink Ireland, Minister James Browne TD, and Ed Murphy, CEO, GreenTechHQ.

County Wexford Chamber business-after-hours event in Enniscorthy

County Wexford Chamber held a business-afterhours event in Enniscorthy at the Riverside Park Hotel on Wednesday 28th August. This networking event served as a special occasion to officially welcome the Enniscorthy business community into the County Wexford Chamber fold.

A full list of upcoming County Wexford Chamber events is on page 100. The calendar is packed with a variety of events designed to foster connections, provide valuable insights, and celebrate the vibrant business community here in Co. Wexford. These events can no doubt help expand your professional circle and explore new business opportunities. n

County Wexford Chamber Business-AfterHours event at the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on Wednesday, August 28th 2024.

Top: Conor Robinson (Wilson Robinson Solicitors), pictured with Dianne Da Mata, Aine Doyle, and Jennifer O'Connor (all Azets).

Above left: County Wexford Chamber CEO Paula Roche with MJ Furlong (AIB).

Above right: Dermot Hynes (Hynes Business Support Services), and Brendan Crowley (Wexford Bus).

Left: Kathleen Kinsella (Kinsella Management Solutions), Matt Ronan (Evolv Health & Wellbeing Store), and Sean Thompson (Emerald Corporate Services).

Learning from ‘Titans of Sport’ Billy

Walsh and Tadhg Furlong

GreenTechHQ, Enniscorthy Technology Park, 16th August 2024

Top right: Martin Kehoe, Enniscorthy, and James Gahan, Co. Wexford Chamber of Commerce. Above left: Hugh O’Connor, Teresa Asple, Tomás Furlong, AIB. Above right: Mary Crosby, Blackwater, Billy Walsh, Wexford Town (Olympic boxing coach), and Trish Roche of Tomhaggard. Below left: John Conran, Rathnure, and Michael Dempsey, Enniscorthy. Below right: James O’Sullivan, Colm O’Carroll, Jack Molloy and Harry O’Sullivan. All pics by Micheal Mac an tSaoir.

Above right: Gerald Dunne, Bree, Mark Crosbie, Piercestown, Barry Walsh, Kinvara, Co. Galway and Charlie Pritchard, Edermine.

Left: Pádraic Vallely explaining the new Wexford Impact Fund.

Below left: James Browne TD, Minister of State for Justice and Equality, Brian Kehoe, CEO, Wexford Local Development and Ed Murphy, CEO of GreenTechHQ.

Below right: Fiona Dempsey, Michelle O’Neill, Rachel Cahill and Martin Cahill

Bottom left: Ed Murphy of GreenTechHQ seated on right, moderator of talk, with his old friends Tadhg Furlong (rugby) and Billy Walsh (boxing).

Bottom right: Brian Kehoe and Tom Bermingham of Wexford Local Development and Patsy Asple, accountant and company director, Gorey.

All pics by Micheal Mac an tSaoir.

Above left: Frank Corcoran, Slaney News, and Frank Kelly, KDA Accountants.

Small business digital strategy event for South East SMEs

Small Business Digital Strategy

Event in Dublin for South East SMEs: Empowering Entrepreneurs with AI and Marketing Insights.

The digital landscape for small businesses is evolving rapidly, and on 2nd October 2024 entrepreneurs from across the south east will gather in Dublin for a full-day event designed to equip them with the latest tools, strategies, and insights to thrive in 2025 and beyond. Hosted in collaboration with Google and the Local Enterprise Offices (LEO) Wexford, Carlow, Waterford & Kilkenny, this event promises a dynamic line-up of speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities.

The event will kick off with registration, breakfast, and networking at 10.00am, providing attendees with the chance to connect with peers and industry leaders. Google will officially open the event with a welcome address at 11.00am, setting the stage for a day filled with valuable knowledge-sharing.

Annette Rowsome from LEO Wexford will deliver the opening remarks, emphasising the importance of digital strategy for small businesses. Following her introduction, Amanda Webb, Founder of Spider working, will lead a session on basic digital strategies and tools. Webb’s talk will cover essential topics, including attracting website visitors, utilising scheduling tools, and the benefits of integrating a newsletter and creative strategy into business operations.

Speaking about the event, Vanessa Hartley, Head of Google Ireland, said: "Small businesses are an integral part of our economy, creating and sustaining significant employment, fuelling innovation, and driving local growth. However, the digital landscape for these businesses is evolving rapidly. That is why this event, delivered in partnership with the Local Enterprise Office in Wexford, is so important. As a proud Waterford woman, I am excited to see how we can provide

Cera Ward, Managing Director, Large Customer Sales, Google Ireland, Annette Rowsome, Local Enterprise Office Wexford, and Vanessa Hartley, Head of Google Ireland, pictured at Google Headquarters with for the launch of Digital 25.

small businesses in the South East with the tools, training, and support they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. We are committed to helping SMEs grow so they can continue contributing to the prosperity of our local communities."

One of the event's highlights will be the AI Art Showdown at 11.45am, where participants will learn the art of image prompting with Google AI. This session promises to be both educational and entertaining, demonstrating the creative potential of AI in digital marketing.

Google will also present a session on boosting productivity with AI, offering practical advice on leveraging AIpowered tools to save time and enhance efficiency. This will be a must-attend for those looking to integrate AI into their daily business operations.

After a networking lunch, attendees can choose between two breakout sessions. Tara Elzingre from Tara Elzingre Consultancy will delve into content creation and marketing fundamentals, while Kristian Downer, Founder of DowSocial, will explore the impact of AI on marketing strategies, providing insights on how to leverage AI for business growth.

The day will culminate in a panel discussion titled "Online Strategies for Small Businesses in 2025," moderated by Google. The panel will feature industry experts, including Jen Langan, Marketing Director at Grow It Yourself Ireland; Darragh O’Ciarba, Co-Founder and CEO of Groopeze; Miriam Cushen, Owner of Cushendale Woolen Mills; and Leona O’Shea, Marketing and Quality Assurance Manager at Barrow Training. Together, they will explore the latest online tools and tactics for small businesses to navigate the competitive digital landscape.

This event represents a unique opportunity for small business owners and entrepreneurs to stay ahead of the curve, learn from industry leaders, and network with like-minded professionals.

To book: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Training-Events/Online-Bookings/Digital-2025-South-East-You-re-th e-Business-LEO-Wexford.html

To learn more about Local Enterprise Office Wexford: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/ n

Wexford company to showcase at national event

One of Wexford’s most innovative small businesses, Sully & Juno, will have the opportunity to present their unique offerings to nearly 300,000 attendees at the upcoming National Ploughing Championships in Ratheniska, County Laois. The event, set to take place from September 17th to 19th, will feature Sully & Juno as part of the prestigious Local Enterprise Village, an initiative by the Local Enterprise Offices to highlight Ireland's best small businesses.

Sully & Juno, proudly supported by Local Enterprise Office Wexford, is Ireland's only designer and manufacturer of clothing specifically tailored to meet the sensory needs of the wearer. Their sensory-friendly designs, a first in Ireland, cater to individuals of all ages, with sizes ranging from newborn to 5XL.

Each piece in the Sully & Juno collection is thoughtfully crafted with the wearer in mind, featuring flat seams, tag-free construction, and soft, organic, sustainable fabrics. The garments are not just practical but also beautifully colorful, ensuring that sensory-friendly clothing doesn’t compromise on style.

What sets Sully & Juno apart is their commitment to transparency. Every item comes with a detailed sensory profile, allowing customers to understand the tactile and comfort features of each garment before purchasing, whether online or at one of the many events they attend. Additionally, the brand celebrates its Irish roots by offering personalised garments in both English and Irish, adding a unique cultural touch to their products.

Sully & Juno will be one of over 30 small businesses featured in the Local Enterprise Village, which is situated at the heart of this year’s National Ploughing Championships. The Local Enterprise Village has become a must-visit spot at the event, offering visitors the chance to discover and support some of Ireland’s most exciting small businesses.

Nina and Gillian of Sully & Juno said, “We're absolutely thrilled to have been nominated by the team at LEO Wexford to showcase our sensory-friendly clothing at the National Ploughing Championships. This opportunity allows us to bring our unique, inclusive designs to a wider audience, and we're excited to share the passion and care that goes into each and every piece we create.”

Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development, Wexford County Council, said: “This is an opportunity like no other for a small business in Ireland. The chance to bring their ideas and products to almost 300,000 potential customers is a showcase like no other. The Local Enterprise Village has become one of those must-visit areas where everyone wants to discover local businesses and see what unique products they can bring home.

The diversity of businesses on display reflects the wide range of sectors supported by the Local Enterprise Offices, from manufacturing to food and beverage, to software solutions. Whatever your interest, there’s something for everyone at the Local Enterprise Village.”

Some of the clients involved this year cover areas such a kids clothing & games, agtech products, luxury bathing

and skincare products, artisan food and drink producers, sustainable clothing and beauty products and range of innovative products from Ireland’s best small businesses.

The Local Enterprise Village is just one of a number of initiatives that the Local Enterprise Offices run, to foster entrepreneurship across the country. Others include Local Enterprise Week, the National Enterprise Awards, the Student Enterprise Programme, National Women’s Enterprise Day and Local Enterprise Showcase. The Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities are funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland.

Established in 2014, the Local Enterprise Offices are the essential resource for any entrepreneur looking to start a business or any small business that is looking for support or advice to help them grow. Since their inception ten years ago, the Local Enterprise Offices have helped create over 70,000 jobs across the country. The LEOs work with thousands of client companies across Ireland in a diverse range of sectors offering mentoring, training, expert advice and financial supports to small businesses.

For more information see: www.LocalEnterprise.ie n

National Women’s Enterprise Day event

Calling all female entrepreneurs in County Wexford!

The National Women’s Enterprise Day event "Making It Happen" is just around the corner. Secure your spot before September 6th to enjoy an early bird rate of €25!

Don't miss out on this inspiring day filled with insights, networking, and actionable strategies to elevate your business.

Date: Thursday, 17th October 202408:30 - 14:00.

Location: Ravenport Resort, Curracloe, Co Wexford.

Book Now: https://tinyurl.com/urwc9mw9 n

Upcoming County Wexford Chamber events

County Wexford Chamber Business After Hours event at the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on Wednesday, August 28th 2024. Above: Christian Albrecht, Mirror Software Consulting Ltd, and Kerry Murphy, EmployAbility Service Wexford.

Co. Wexford businesses get over €9m in ICOB funding

Minister of State and Wexford TD James Browne has confirmed more than €9.1 million has been paid to Wexford businesses under the Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) scheme.

It comes as Minister Browne's party colleague Minister of State for Trade Promotion Dara Calleary TD confirmed payments under the Government grant scheme reached more than €200 million nationwide to some 81,000 small and medium sized businesses (SMEs).

The ICOB grant was designed to help SMEs with the increased costs associated with running a business and was administered by the local authorities on behalf of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

“I’m delighted that nationwide payments under the Increased Cost of Business Scheme have exceeded the €200 million mark,” Minister Browne said.

“These funds are directly helping small and medium sized businesses across the country deal with day-to-day expenses. It’s a practical and targeted Government support.

“In Wexford, a total of €9,118,131 worth of payments were issued to businesses in the county. Some 2,846 businesses received €5,397,299 in the first tranche of payments and 1,623 businesses received €3,720,832 in the second round of payments.

“These significant sums of money going directly to local businesses to assist them with ongoing challenges.”

“Fianna Fáil in Government is committed to helping small businesses across the country.”

Nationwide, some 71,672 small and medium sized businesses have received their first payments, totalling €148 million, under the scheme. A further €58 million in second payments have been

made, bringing the total to €205 million to date.

A total of €257 million is available under the scheme and further payments continue be made on a daily basis. 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

Minister James Browne TD.

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

St Mary’s Rectory Bunclody Summer Fete, 27th July 2024. Above: Graham, Emily and Sally Ann Gotting and dogs Tully and Bonnie. Below: Siobhan Brownrigg and her dog Waffles.

MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

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

E: moynevet@gmail.com

VET DIARY FOR SEPT

I was sent an article online recently from a client regarding an American animal therapist, whose speciality is horses.

It is an alternative way of looking at disease, illness and lameness in horses but applies to all animals.

The jist of the article was that a TMJ (Temoral Mandibular Joint i.e. our jaw joint) problem can relate to dental, respiratory, digestive endocrine, proprioceptive, vestibular and locomotory issues.

What I hear ye say... that a problem in your jaw can lead to the myriad of other problems... The skull isn't made of one bone but made up of a large number of flat and curved bones that interdigitate with one another. They should be able to move almost microscopically but they should move. This movement helps create the movement of the fluid around the brain called the cerebrospinal fluid, in turn helps create the cerebrospinal pulse as in a flow of the magical fluid around the skull, down the spinal column and back up again. When it's not flowing it can affect different systems within the body.

We learn to break things down into smaller, bite-sized pieces to get an understanding of them. The problem is we have broken the horse, dog, etc down into these

with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital

pieces but haven't put all the pieces of the jigsaw back together. We've learned to focus on say the obvious front limb lameness in one leg for instance and don't look to the underlying issue which might stem from a lumbar problem. Starting to treat the entire system rather than honing exclusively with one part helps to give a longerlasting more satisfactory resolution and hopefully painfree animal. The animal and owner generally are much happier in the long run.

It’s a different approach but more and more clients are starting to see the benefits of the Wholistic approach and the animals generally love it too.

The quote, 'The key to change is not to find dysfunction, it is to find FUNCTION. Anyone can find dysfunction but not everyone can find the door to functional.’

It’s great to see new approaches to doing things that are making a difference in a very positive way. Every day is a learning day and there's lots still to be learned!!

Our challenge as veterinary surgeons is to open up to these new modalities and ways of assessing and treating these animals. Our greatest challenge is our greatest opportunity. n

If you have a topic you’d like Joe Kavanagh to address please email Slaney News at: slaneynews@gmail.com

OPENING HOURS (6 DAYS A WEEK):

9.00am–1.00pm and 2.00pm–6.00pm

Small animal clinic (please tel. for appointment):

Daily 9.30–10.30am, 2.30–3.30pm, 5.00–6.00pm. 24-hour, on-call, Emergency Service: (053) 9233187.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

Full blood analysis (haematology, biochemistry)

Gas anaesthetic – Digital X-rays – Ultrasound – Bioenergy

Dermatological testing – Kinesiology – Prescription diets

Herbal remedies – Homeopathy – Allergy testing

MG has added another hybrid to its range of cars and SUVs in Ireland. The new MG3 slots into the range below the popular MG4. It's a Renault Clio sized supermini with sty-

CAROLINE GETS MOTORING

Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings us reviews of the latest new cars to arrive in Ireland. Caroline is the founder and editor of the online automotive magazine Changing Lanes and a jury member for Irish Car of the Year.

Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at www.changinglanes.ie

MG3 HYBRID

lish good looks and a fuel efficient hybrid powertrain.

With sales of electric vehicles taking a hit in 2024, there's renewed interest in alternatives like hybrids that are

cleaner than traditional petrol cars but don't require charging.

The new MG3 goes up against superminis like the Opel Corsa and Volkswagen Polo, as well as other small

hybrid cars like the Renault Clio Hybrid and the popular Toyota Yaris Hybrid. It goes on sale from a very attractive €22,995. Though it's priced well in the market, it doesn't look budget and has a smart, compact presence.

While all versions come as a hybrid, there are three trim levels: Essence, Excite and Exclusive. LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights come as standard across the range. Top of the range Exclusive models add LED headlights and rear privacy glass. Excite and Exclusive models also come with a very attractive set of 16-inch alloy wheels.

It's easy to feel comfortable behind the wheel of the MG3. It has a well-finished cabin considering the price and the plastics don't feel cheap. Fabric seats come as standard though Exclusive models have leather-style seats with cloth inserts for a more plush feel.

The MG steering wheel looks good and a digital driver display comes as standard. There's plenty of adjustment in the driver's seat but the steering wheel only adjusts for rake, not reach.

All versions get a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though disappointingly it's wired not wireless. There are a few buttons underneath the screen to turn the air con on and off or adjust the volume of the radio. Other standard

features include automatic air conditioning, reversing camera and the MG Pilot suite of safety and driver assistance features. The top of the range Exclusive model gets a 360-degree camera as well as a heated steering wheel and heated front seats. Passenger space is just about okay though legroom in the back is on the tight side. Unusually, the rear seat back rest does not split fold and can only be let down in one entire piece. The boot is a respectable 293 litres so on par with rivals like the Clio and Yaris, but smaller than a Skoda Fabia.

On the road the MG3 feels swift and responsive for a small car. Acceleration is also very smooth through the three-speed automatic transmission and the engine never gets too noisy. There are driving modes – Eco, Standard and Sport - and regenerative braking with the option to adjust the strength of it from a menu in the touchscreen.

The MG3 doesn't feel as sharp to drive as rivals but at a reasonable pace, it's well capable. It's at its best in town and does well on tight country roads too, where the compact dimensions make it easy to get around in. Out on the motorway, it has no problem keeping up with traffic but there is more road noise, which is common among small cars. It's generally comfortable by small car standards but the rear suspension can thud over imperfections in the road surface.

It is very efficient however. The MG3 Hybrid has a 1.5-litre petrol engine and a small 1.83kWh battery on board that allows the car at times to run on electric power only, boosting efficiency when driving around town. The official consumption figure is as low as 4.4 litres per 100 kilometres. In my test drive, my consumption averaged between about 4.5 and 4.6 litres per 100 kilometres.

The MG3 is very well-priced for the Irish market at a time when even small cars have become pricier to buy. The range starts at €22,995 for the Essence, from €24,745 for the Excite and from €26,745 for the Excellence. Altogether, it offers great value and is definitely worth a look if you're looking for a small hybrid car. n

Cannonball returns to Wexford

Cannonball is coming back to Wexford on Friday September 6th at 6pm for an overnight pitstop. Cannonball is the largest organised road trip in Europe featuring the finest cars on the planet from the awe-inspiring power of Ferrari, Lamborghini and McLaren to the grace and elegance of Porsche, Aston Martin, and Maserati, and introducing the brand-new Lamborghini Revoulto which will be unveiled in Ireland for the very first time.

Cannonball, founded by Kildare businessman Alan Bannon, has already raised €1,638,432 for Irish children’s charities and brings a unique and inimitable electric atmosphere to host towns all over the country making it a widely anticipated free family event for spectators.

This year the official charity of Cannonball is the Jack and Jill Children's Foundation – an Irish children’s charity that funds and delivers in-home nursing care, respite support for children from birth to six years of age with severe learning disability associated with complex medical need. Typically, these children may be tube fed, oxygen dependent, may not sleep, take seizures, need a lot of medication and require around-the-clock care. Another key part of the service is endof-life-care for all children up to the age six, irrespective of diagnosis, empowering parents to take their child home to die at this most difficult time.

147 children and their families from Wexford have been helped over the years by Jack and Jill and there are currently 416 children and their families under the care of The Jack and Jill Childrens Foundation right across the country.

Cannonball brings a unique festival atmosphere with Brazilian dancers, giant screens, music and fanfare brings all the glamour of carnival and live DJs, and bands. The Cannonballers and celebrities in colourful costumes add to the melee. From Spiderman to Star Wars, Cat Woman to Wonder Woman, cheerleaders to Charlie’s Angels, Batman, the Joker and more; it is a totally unique free family day out. This year, organisers are also calling on spectators to dress up in fancy dress with prizes for best dressed.

The benefit to the host towns for this event is estimated at €2,567,000. The Tour Sponsor this year is Apache Pizza and Cannonball official partners include Karl Goodwin Motors, AB Signs and Majestic Ireland Road Trips.

See cannonball.ie n

On Friday September 6th at 10am, the gleaming convoy will blaze a trail to Kilkenny for a lunch stop at the Lyrath Estate Hotel. The cars will fuel up at 4pm at Circle K, M11 Gorey, and then on to the finish line on Wexford Quay at 6.30pm where the cars will be on display. On Saturday September 7th the convoy will leave Wexford at 10am.

Former Miss World Rosanna Davison promoting the visit of Cannonball to Wexford.

Cannonball on its last visit to Wexford town.

Enniscorthy senior rugby fixtures ‘24

Darragh moves to English club

The very best of luck to Enniscorthy footballer Darragh Harris on joining English club side Chesterfield.

Congratulations to Eva Nolan who was named in the Leinster squad to take on Munster recently in the first match of the U18 interpros. Pictured is Eva being presented with her matchday jersey by Aoife Wafer, Irish international, and former Enniscorthy player. n

Congratulations to Slaney Olympics’ Anne Gilshinan who has just won the World Masters 1500 final in Gothenburg Sweden in a World Record time of 4.59. n

Enniscorthy’s world champion

Wexford’s ‘Titans of Sport’ visit Enniscorthy

Leinster, Ireland and Lions rugby player Tadhg Furlong and Olympic boxing coach Billy Walsh were guest interviewees at the ‘Titans of Sport’ event hosted by GreenTechHQ in the Enniscorthy Technology Park on 16th August 2024, discussing a wide range of topics related to leadership and innovation in sport.

Mr Walsh, a native of Wexford town, an active GAA player in his youth, an Olymian himself in 1988, the man in Katie Taylor’s corner for her London 2012 Olympic gold medal win, and current head coach with the USA boxing team, had some interesting suggestions in relation to the controversial topic of judging in the sport of boxing particularly following the ‘scandalous’ judging in the recent Paris Olympics and the decision in favour of France’s own Wassila Lkhadiri over Ireland’s flyweight Daina Moorehouse.

Top boxers train every day to master their sport, Mr Walsh said, but what training do judges get and how often do they get it? Mr Walsh believes Artificial Intelligence (AI) could be the solution to the sport’s judging quandry, taking any subjectivity out of the equation.

In response to a question from the floor, Mr Walsh offered the opinion that in order for Wexford to achieve success at

Top photo:

Pictured at the Titans of Sport event at GreenTechHQ in Enniscorthy Technology Park on 16th August were Shane Roche (former Wexford footballer), Billy Walsh (US boxing coach), Tadhg Furlong (international rugby player), Michelle O'Neill (soccer referee) and John Conran (former Wexford hurler and manager).

Right:

Pictured at the Titans of Sport event at GreenTechHQ in Enniscorthy Technology Park on 16th August with Tadhg Furlong and Billy Walsh were Killowen Farm directors and staff Pauline and Nicholas Dunne and Rory Walsh.

senior level in hurling and football, players need to be more or less full-time at their sport, believing this to be the case with Limerick’s hurlers and Dublin’s footballers.

Both titans spoke about the importance of enjoying one’s chosen sport(s), and having ‘self-belief’ is key also.

Tadhg Furlong spoke about his own rugby development from underage teams in New Ross where his father was a coach, before heading to Dublin as a raw 17-year-old on the first stop towards a professional career in rugby, to his Lions appearances, and adrressing the

fact that at the age of 31 his rugby career can’t go on forever.

Possessing a great sense of humour, a stellar rugby career to date, a great work/life balance, and a recently completed accountancy qualification, we suspect Mr Furlong will have a successful career whenever he decides to retire from the game.

Mr Furlong was enthusiastic about the progress rugby has made in Co. Wexford and was very complimentary about Enniscorthy Rugby Club singling out Declan O’Brien for special mention for the coaching work he has done at the club over many years. n

ASPIRE GYMNASTICS

Kiltealy, Enniscorthy 087 143 3446 info@aspiregymnastics.ie

Left and below:

GreenTechHQ’s Ed Murphy interviewed Tadhg

Aspire Gymnastics, Kiltealy, Co. Wexford. Tel: 087 143 3446. Email: aspiregymnasticsacademy@outlook.com https://www.facebook.com/p/Aspire-Gymnastics-Wexford-100093029865479/

Above:

Full house for the Titans of Sport event in GreenTechHQ, Enniscorthy Technology Park, 16th August 2024.

Furlong and Billy Walsh.

Texaco support for sport award

Regarded as the home of Gaelic Games in Gorey, Naomh Éanna GAA Club has been chosen winners of the Wexford County award in this year’s Texaco Support for Sport initiative. €5,000 has been presented to the Club to help fund the development of its facilities.

Now in its fourth year, the Texaco Support for Sport initiative – organised by Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited, the company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand – sees a fund of €130,000 set aside annually for allocation in equal amounts of €5,000 to successful applicants chosen on a county-by-county basis.

Previous Wexford winners were Kilmore United FC (2021), Menapians Athletic

Club (2022) and Aspire Gymnastics Academy, Kiltealy (2023).

Congratulating the winners on what he termed ‘the invaluable contribution that sports clubs make to the heart of community life in Ireland’, James Twohig, Director of Ireland Operations, Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited praised the unstinting work of club officials and volunteers. He said that “since its inception, in excess of €500,000 has been distributed to a variety of more than 100 sports clubs under the Texaco Support for Sport initiative”.

Overseeing the judging process was Texaco Support for Sport ambassador, former Irish rugby international and wellknown broadcaster, Donncha O’Callaghan. Commenting, he said, “As adjudicator, the most heartening aspect

of the Texaco Support for Sport initiative is the benefit it brings to Irish sports clubs by providing rare access to funds which are not linked to the popularity, membership size or success of any given club.”

Describing the Wexford club as ‘a very worthy winner’, he went on to add: “Naomh Éanna GAA is doing great work in its community and everyone involved is hugely proud of this club. The funding will improve facilities and help attract, and keep, more people in the Gorey area playing the game they love. Well done Naomh Éanna.”

Entries for the 2025 Texaco Support for Sport initiative will open in the Autumn for all clubs, including those whose application may have been unsuccessful previously. n

NAOMH ÉANNA GAA CLUB RECEIVES COUNTY AWARD UNDER TEXACO SUPPORT FOR SPORT INITIATIVE. The presentation to Naomh Éanna GAA Club chairman, Tony Molloy and fellow club members, was made at the Texaco Service Station, Camolin. Pictured with them were Texaco dealers, Glen and Conor Carton (back left) and Valero Area Sales Manager, Damien Burke.

Leading exponents of the uilleann pipes Mark Redmond and Éanna Harrington were at Enniscorthy Castle last month as part of National Heritage Week.

Na Píobairí Uilleann offered a free uilleann pipes taster session on Saturday 17th August from 12-2pm in the historical location of Enniscorthy Castle.

Hosted by accomplished uilleann pipers Mark Redmond and Éanna Harrington, individuals had the opportunity to try out the instrument for themselves with the guidance and assistance of experienced players. 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

The National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy is always worth a visit so be sure to drop in soon.

A Norman invasion at Fethard Words and pics by Maria Nolan

Heritage Week from 17th – 25th August gifted us with a plethora of cultural and national heritage events right across the county and Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society were delighted to be invited to participate in the Baginbun Norman Festival at Fethard Castle. And where better to celebrate our unique Norman heritage than at the place where our Norman ancestors landed in 1169.

‘At the Creek of Baginbun, Ireland was lost and won.’

The icon Fethard Castle, although a ruin, provided a majestic backdrop for the many arts, crafts, and food stalls sprinkled on its manicured grounds.

The Dunbrody Archers provided a most well-liked event giving punters the chance to try their hand at hitting the bullseye with deadly arrows and Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Living History display allowing them to handle and understand firsthand the weaponry of the period as well as experience the weight of authentic chainmail, helmet, sword and shield, and suffice it to say – they are not making men like they used to!

The stocks along with a good whipping were hugely popular with the children especially when mam or dad volunteered themselves for a flogging, and trust me, local politicians weren’t spared the embarrassment either, with Bridin Murphy and Jim Codd surrendering themselves to the ancient humiliation.

Scenic and historic, Fethard attracts lots of visitors over the summer period and many from the UK, USA, and other parts of Ireland were intrigued by the Norman tales of the area – a great Festival to spread the word of Wexford’s ownership of the Normans.

The picturesque St. Mogue’s Church adjacent to Fethard Castle was home to a gallery of exquisite paintings many depicting the magnificent local landscape and later in the day presented An Evening of Music with Eleanor Shanley & Mike Hanrahan to close the festival with style and panache.

Well done to all involved on a most excellent and enjoyable festival and we at EHRS are already looking forward to next year’s event. n

Norman

Baginbun

Festival at Fethard Castle

All pics by Maria Nolan

Croppy Boy Commemoration

Words and pics by Maria Nolan

Pikemen and women from all over Wexford and beyond gathered in numbers on Saturday 24th August at The Croppy Grave in Crooke graveyard, Co. Waterford, to remember and revere croppies from Wexford, Wicklow, Mayo, Galway, Offaly, Down, Carlow, Antrim and more, who were imprisoned in the nearby New Geneva Barracks in the aftermath of the 1798 Rebellion.

Two years ago, Tim and Seamus Corrigan and Margaret O’Neill found the Croppy Grave and decided to restore it and organise an event to commemorate all those who suffered and died in the Rebellion and in horrific conditions at Geneva Barracks.

Folklore expert Michael Fortune was the MC for the occasion and was lavish in his praise for Tim, Seamus and Margaret who he said, ‘Have given us a chance to remember the people and the spirit of ‘98’ as he made the gathering aware of the fate of the Geneva Barracks prisoners.

‘The lucky ones’, Michael said, ‘were transported to Van Diemen’s Land, more were forced into the British army whilst some 300 prisoners were ‘given’ like slaves by the British to the Prussian army in September 1798 to fill their ranks and to work in their mines, most of them never getting a chance to re-

turn to their native land, whilst sadly many croppies never left that barracks alive.’

Michael called on the Mayor of Waterford Jason Murphy who said that it was an honour for him to be asked to address such illustrious company as the

Wexford pikemen and women and thanked them all for coming to remember those who suffered and died at Crooke.

There followed a rousing rendition of The Croppy Boy by the one and only Wexford Pikeman Tim Corrigan.

Eloquent and informative historian Brian Clery reminded all not to forget those who went before us, sacrificing themselves so that we could enjoy the Ire-

land we live in today and called for a Minutes Silence in memory of all the Croppies who lost their lives in that dark period of our history.

A group of talented singers led by Niall Wall then gave an emotive performance of Boolavogue over the Croppy grave, causing the hairs to stand on the necks of many in the gathering who had come across on the Ballyhack ferry and marched all the way uphill to Crooke

graveyard to pay their respects. Before departing, the entire group of pikemen and women gathering together for a photograph broke spontaneously into Kelly the Boy from Killanne and I think it safe to say that, as in the song, collectively they ‘said a prayer and shed a tear for the Croppy Boy’ at his final resting place in the shadow of the dreaded Geneva Barracks at Crooke, Co. Waterford. n

Michael Fortune Brian Clery.

Do your town a favour

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

One group who came on board recently were the staff at AIB Enniscorthy who joined with Enniscorthy Tidy Towns to give Slaney Place and surrounds a nice tidy up! The results speak for themselves – the difference some cleaning of signage, weeding, removal of graffiti and some TLC can make is immense.

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns says “the staff in AIB were a pleasure to volunteer with”, and also thanks those other businesses in town who look after the fronts of their premises. 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

Fighting a foreign invasion!

The Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group is at the coalface in tackling invasive species around town such as on the Slaney Country Walk and on The Banks at the Island Road.

Himalayan Balsam is an invasive species which has taken over sections of the slaney catchment. 'Balsam bashing' involves

Creating works of art!

The Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group has embarked on an exciting community artwork project with thanks to Creative Places Enniscorthy and Enniscorthy Municipal District.

With the help of local artists and secondary school students, the group is planning on putting amazing artwork on various utility boxes around town. Enniscorthy Municipal District Council has given permission for their boxes to be painted, and the Tidy Towns group is establishing contact with the ESB and Irish Water/Uisce Eireann for permission to work on their boxes.

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns has commenced removing graffiti and posters, and cleaning utility boxes around the town as a first step (see photo) with the project. n

carefully pulling the plant to remove it. Due to its shallow roots it means the plant can be removed before it goes to seed. The Himalayan Balsam can then be placed in piles on cardboard to stop seeds getting a chance to grow. They then break down naturally. n

Cleaning a utility box in Enniscorthy.

Slaney River Kayak & Cleanup

Join Sustainable Enniscorthy for its Slaney River Kayak & Cleanup event and get ready to make a splash for the environment!

On Sunday, September 22nd, with thanks to funding from Local Authority Waters Programme, Sustainable Enniscorthy is teaming up with Enniscorthy Tidy Towns and GoPaddle.ie for a special River Cleanup event on World Rivers Day!

Hop in a kayak, enjoy the beauty of the River Slaney, and help keep our town litter-free!

Time: 10am-2pm, 22nd September 2024. Location: Edermine Bridge.

Spaces are limited, so register now: https://widget.eola.co/1363/activities/s ustainable-enniscorthy-river-cleanup n

Need to upgrade your cold house?

Enniscorthy Credit Union has a Green Loan designed to help you do just that – with one of its lowest rates for a loan 5.25% (5.4% APR). So save money, save energy and save the environment with Enniscorthy Credit Union!

Talk to them today or apply online. Tel: 053 9233835

Email: loans@enniscorthycu.ie n

- 3rd September 2024

E-scooter scheme for Wexford town

first shared E-Scooter scheme in Ireland was launched in Wexford Town last month by Minister James Lawless

Wexford County Council, working with Bolt, Europe’s largest scooter operator, has commenced a six-month trial of the E-scooters, building on the success of the shared bike scheme.

If you are 18 years of age or older you can try them. Download the Bolt app and follow the rules and see if they can make short trips a little easier for you. If you are new to scooters it is recommended to start on beginner mode, which is set at 15km/hr max speed and Bolt advises hi viz and helmet at all times.

For more information see Bolt shared E-Scooter scheme https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/roads-travel-and-parking/activetravel-cycling-and-public-transport/bolt-shared-e-scooter-scheme

The

(above left).

All are invited to the launch of Community Energy Hub

The Launch of Community Energy Hub will take place on 12th September 2024 in Wexford Town Library. All are invited to attend the launch of this new online platform to help citizens with energy advice and finding energy upgrade grant information.

The Community Energy Hub was created to help households, community groups and businesses to better understand energy efficiency and help streamline grant and funding information for citizens to undertake energy upgrades for their homes, communities and business.

Hear from speakers who will help you take the first steps towards a more energy-efficient and sustainable home. With expert speakers and practical tips, you’ll come away with the knowledge and resources you need to make a posi-

tive impact on the environment and your bank account.

Plus the first of the monthly Energy Drop-in Clinics takes place where you can have a one-to-one chat with an Energy Engineer for energy advice.

Topics:

Discover the new Community Energy Hub Platform, your home for all things energy.

Save Energy and Save Money:

Learn about energy-saving tips for your home and find out how to apply for SEAI grants to make your home more energyefficient.

Learn about Energy Poverty: And how SCEPA, a new European initiative is aiming to address this in the South East of Ireland.

Where:

Wexford Town Library.

When:

Thursday, 12th September 11am - 1pm.

Presentations & Speakers: 11am - 12pm.

Drop in Energy Clinic: 12pm - 1pm.

Spaces are limited so register now for free to guarantee your spot.

To register, click: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/so utheastenergyagency/1319406 n