Slaney News, Issue 132, May 2021.

Slaney News

ServiNg Co. wexford for the laSt 10 yearS

Issue 132 - May 2021

Opening up the county Asmoe and Jed McRedmond with a cuddly rabbit at Kia Ora Mini Farm, Gorey, on 26th April, the day it reopened.

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

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Johnny Mythen TD Due to Nationwide Covid 19 Restrictions, we are unable hold face to face advice clinics at this time.

“I would like to assure you that my office and staff are still here to help”.

Notice COVID-19

HERE TO HELP

Contact us by any of the following methods:

087 114 2100 johnny.mythen@oireachtas.ie

During this COVID-19 pandemic, my office is here to help you. I continue to work behind closed doors and you can contact me by phone, email or Facebook.

In line with public health guidelines, my advice clinics and public meetings remain suspended.

Johnny Mythen Johnny Mythen TD Wexford @JohnnyMythenSF johnnymythentd Johnny Mythen TD Constituency Office Slaney Place Enniscorthy Co. Wexford Y21 T8K7

James

Browne TD 053 92 35046

jamesbrownetd@oir.ie

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SlaNey NewS

comment

To advertise in the Slaney News please contact: 087-2403310

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

It’s great to see those businesses and facilties that have been closed in recent months due to Covid-19 restrictions, reopening now and over the coming weeks. It’s great, for example, to see that the National 1798 Rebellion Centre will be reopening in Enniscorthy on 10th May, particularly as its whole future was in doubt not so long ago. So take advantage of Co. Wexford opening up and explore this award-winning exhibition on our own doorstep.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Another good news story which we cover in this issue is the progress being made towards a Technological University of the South East.

SLANEY NEWS, CLONHASTON, ENNISCORTHY

Enniscorthy Councillor, Cathal Byrne, is one of those delighted with the news, saying: “I welcome the announcement that Waterford IT and IT Carlow have submitted a formal application to the government to become a technological university... it is a massive step forward towards permanently solving the socalled South East brain drain whereby people who leave the South East to attend third level university do not return to the South East once they have graduated.”

“This so-called brain drain was an issue I raised directly with Dr Patricia Mulcahy, President of IT Carlow, when she attended last month's meeting of Wexford County Council,” commented Cllr Byrne. “I look forward to the application being approved by Minister Simon Harris, Minister for Higher Education, and the day when the first students graduate from the new Technological University of the South East.”

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– We would be delighted as always to receive stories and photos from our Cllr readers from all around Co. Wexford. If you have anything you’d like us Cathal to share please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do Byrne our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our new format. Tel: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page: “Slaney News”. And, of course, if you like the new format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you.

– Frank Corcoran

Located just behind the new Enniscorthy Lidl

Tel: 087-2403310 Email: slaneynews@gmail.com www.slaneynews.com Facebook: Slaney News Online: www.issuu.com/slaneynews/docs PUBLISHED in Enniscorthy by Corcoran Print & Design Disclaimer: Slaney News reserves the right to accept or reject any advertisement submitted for publication.

Slaney News does not attempt to investigate or verify claims made in advertisements appearing in our publication. The appearance of an advertisement in this publication in no way implies endorsement or approval by us of any advertising claims or of the advertiser, its product, or services. Slaney News disclaims any liability whatsoever in connection with advertising appearing in this publication.

Every effort has been made to ensure that all articles published in Slaney News are true and accurate but if any errors do occur please let us know and we will gladly rectify them in our next issue.

Where details of future events are given in this publication, we recommend that you check these details directly with the organisers as event details may be subject to change.

Slaney News strongly recommends seeking independent professional advice before acting on any financial, medical or other information contained in this publication.

SLANEY NEWS

Bega Barber congratulates Sami’s Hair Parlour on moving to new and bigger premises

Pitch Hire Available Weekdays and Weekends, from 10th May for Recreational Sports (max 15), Sports Teams, Schools and Family Activities. Get in touch for details and prices.

Booking online www.bookapitch.com/venues/391 We have a packed Summer Schedule here at the Astro Active Centre: Mini Sports Programmes for ages 3-7years, Hockey starts May 4th, Soccer starts May 8th and Athletics (June/July).

Outdoor Teen Fitness coming soon!

Summer Camps July and August.

Online Fitness Classes for Mums, Older Adult – Flexi Stretch and Chair Yoga, and Personal Training.

Bookings can be made via our website: www.astroactive.ie or email: astroactivetl@cwcwe.ie for further information.

Also check our Facebook page.

Page 4 - 4th May 2021

Bega and staff wish Taoufik and his team at Sami’s Hair Parlour barber shop the very best of good luck on 10th May as they reopen in their new premises on Slaney Street, Enniscorthy (beside Maloccas)

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

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4th May 2021 - Page 5

SlaNey NewS The new St Patrick’s School in Enniscorthy

ENNISCORTHY SNIPPETS ST PATRICK’S SCHOOL: The spectacular new St Patrick’s School at Drumgoold is due to open its doors within a matter of weeks. In the meantime, readers can enjoy a virtual walk-around by viewing the video here.

licensed soon in the following locations: Urrin Bridge on the Promenade Country Walk; at Vinegar Hill; at the Enniscorthy Sports Hub; in Bunclody’s Market Square, and possibly at one location in each of Ferns, Bree and Kiltealy.

BRINGING LIFE BACK TO SLANEY STREET:

FLOOD DEFENCE SCHEME:

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

Work will be completed by November this year. It is hoped by many that the street will become a centre for craft and design outlets, and for artistic endeavour. In the meantime a number of moves have taken place on the street. The Copper Chimney Indian/Thai takeaway opened last month and Sami’s barber shop has moved to bigger premises at the bottom of the street and proprietor Taoufik is looking forward to welcoming everyone to his unique premises on 10th May when all hairdressers and barbers will be reopening.

Cllr. Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District, has been informed that the Supplementary Information requested by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) in relation to Enniscorthy Flood Defence Scheme has been finalised by Wexford Co. Council. Enniscorthy Flood Defence Liaison Person, Larry McHale, confirmed to Cllr. Murphy that the required information was submitted to the Office of Public Works on April 27th and the OPW sent it on to DPER on Friday April 30th, 2021.

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

He says: “The M11 Enniscorthy bypass has enhanced the town’s accessibility to Dublin and Wexford. I am confident that an advanced technology building will attract world-class employers to Enniscorthy. That’s why I’ve written to IDA CEO Martin Shanahan and Wexford County Council CEO Tom Enright explaining why Enniscorthy is ready to entice employers to an advanced technology building, ideally suited to either the Enniscorthy Technology Park or the Enniscorthy Business District on the Dublin Road,” Cllr Browne concluded.

Cllr Murphy said, “As was agreed by the Councillors of Enniscorthy Municipal District, we are now seeking meetings with Minister Michael McGrath TD, Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, and Minister Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, and to stress upon them the urgency of getting the building of the Enniscorthy Flood Defence Scheme started. It is imperative that this project gets underway this year.

The completed project will provide vital protection to the homes and businesses adversely affected in Enniscorthy by flooding over many years.”

The scheme confirmation documents can be viewed on the scheme website at www.enniscorthyfds.ie Main construction work can commence when the scheme has been confirmed by the Minister. It is expected that the entire Flood Defence Scheme for Enniscorthy, which will include building a new bridge across the River Slaney, will cost in excess of €45 million.

TECHNOLOGY PARK: Building work is expected to commence in about a month’s time.

SHOPFRONT PAINTING SCHEME:

AIR QUALITY:

Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager Ger Mackey has proposed a Shopfront Painting Scheme similar to the successful 2020 Scheme which had a significant uptake. If implemented, a grant of €250 will be available to each premises plus a grant of €50 for floral displays.

Full details will be posted on our ‘Slaney News’ Facebook page.

The April meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District was told that there is tentative evidence of air quality improvement since the banning of smoky fuel sales in the town last year. It is thought that some people are buying smoky coal outside the Enniscorthy town area and bringing it in to get around the ban. However, a national ban on smoky fuels is likely in the near future so that should help eliminate the problem. See https://airquality.ie for readings from Enniscorthy and all over Ireland.

CASUAL TRADING: Enniscorthy Municipal District will soon be issuing Casual Trading licences outside of the Designated Casual Trading Areas that exist in the town. So expect to see some mobile catering units being

Page 6 - 4th May 2021

Keep an eye on the ‘Slaney News’ Facebook page for updates.

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Cllr.

Cathal Byrne Working for Enniscorthy Town and District

My monthly advice clinics are currently cancelled.

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

(085) 146 1164 cathal.byrne@wexfordmcc.ie @CathalEByrne

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

We will come through this.

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

malcolm.byrne@oireachtas.ie

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

TESTING OF ALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLES Vans & Jeeps

Trucks & Trailers

Buses & Ambulances

Motor caravans

Mixed fleets & other vehicle types

Tractors

TACHOGRAPH & PLATING STATION

......................................................................

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

Call today 053 9233593 4th May 2021 - Page 7

SlaNey NewS

Wexford people helping each other The well-known and loved charity group, Wexford People Helping People (WPHP), was delighted last month to receive a substantial donation to its community fund from the staff of AIB bank in Enniscorthy who ran a collection on behalf of WPHP which raised over €200.

Left: Enniscorthybased volunteer and treasurer with the WPHP group, Claudia Blaess, was on hand to gratefully accept the cheque.

South East University bid progresses Senator Malcolm Byrne, who chairs an Oireachtas group on the new Technological University for the South East (TUSE), has confirmed that the formal application for the new university was lodged on 30th April. The Governing Body at Waterford Institute of Technology and the Governing Body at IT Carlow have both formally ratified the bid.

Malcolm says, “Once the bid is submitted, an international panel will assess it against the requirements for university designation. This is likely to happen in June. Assuming that the bid is successful, the University will come into being on 1st January. The TUSE (possibly with a new name) is likely to be the fifth or sixth largest in student numbers in the State. It is also likely that two other universities (Shannon and Connaught Ulster) will come into being in 2022.”

He is also optimistic about the proposed new Wexford campus saying, “The deal on the Wexford campus for the new university is currently being concluded.

Page 8 - 4th May 2021

“This has been one of the most important projects on which I have worked since election to the Oireachtas and will make an enormous difference to County Wexford and to the region.”

Earlier in April, representatives from IT Carlow attended the monthly meeting of Wexford County Council to discuss the proposed Wexford Campus of the new Technological University of the South East (TUSE) which is being worked on and is expected to be a reality by January 2022.

In the view of many who attended the meeting, it fell short on specifics with Dr Patricia Mulcahy, President IT Carlow, unable to confirm the specific Wexford Campus site as yet but she did confirm that a preferred site has been identified and she hoped to be in a position to engage with the site owner soon and hopefully the site could be acquired this autumn, after which design and tendering could take another 18 months.

Funding was identified as an issue, with Dr Mulcahy confirming that funds are available to purchase the Wexford site but it seems there is no certainty over funding for the development of the campus itself. But the Department of Education is supportive of the whole TUSE project, Dr Mulcahy said, pointing out that Minister Harris himself has specifically spoken in the past about his support for a Wexford campus.

Read more in Keith Doyle’s column on page 15. n

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4th May 2021 - Page 9

SlaNey NewS

A look inside Enniscorthy’s Vaccination Centre

The new Covid-19 Vaccination Centre for Co. Wexford in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy.

All five Covid-19 Vaccination Centres in the South East (Carlow, Clonmel, Enniscorthy, Kilkenny and Waterford) are now fully operational since the roll out of the C-19 vaccine has been extended to the general public.

The Centre in Waterford has 40 booths and the capacity to deliver some 4,000 vaccinations per day. The Centres in Carlow, Clonmel, Enniscorthy and Kilkenny have 10 booths each and have the capacity to deliver up to 1,000 vaccinations a day in each case.

The HSE’s aim in offering Covid 19 vaccines to the population is to protect people and reduce the illness and deaths caused by this virus.

There is no charge for getting your Covid-19 vaccine. It's free.

Watch a demonstration video on the operation of a Vaccination Centre here. n

Page 10 - 4th May 2021

If you get an appointment for your vaccination at the Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy but don’t have transport, contact the Wexford County Council Covid-19 Community Support Helpline on 053 9196000 and they will arrange free transport to and from the centre.

The Centre in Enniscorthy has 10 booths and has the capacity to deliver up to 1,000 vaccinations a day.

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Currently open by appointment only.

Find us on Facebook: ‘Slaneyside Carpet & Furniture’. Email: carpetmaster123@gmail.com 4th May 2021 - Page 11

SlaNey NewS

FAC ES AND PLACES ...

FET HA RD

Wexford County Council’s Fethard Playground was a welcome sight for many families during lockdown.

Top left: Enjoying himself there was Jack Fenlon.

Top Right: Alan and Selina Doran.

Above left: Roiseen McSweeney.

Left: Peter, Danny and Erin Mackey.

Above: Sunita Vdk, Joden Doran and Cody McSweeney.

Page 12 - 4th May 2021

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BEGA BARBER looks forward to reopening on 10th May and welcoming all our clients back BEGA BARBER: 64 Wafer St, Enniscorthy.

Tel: 087 060 9400. wwww.begabarber.ie

OPENING HOURS:

Ibrahim

Mon/Tues/Weds/Sat: 8.30am–6.00pm.

Thurs/Fri: 8.30am–7.00pm.

Sunday: Phone for Sunday opening times.

SERVICES:

Hair Cut, Beard Trim. No shaving or hot towel shaving due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Yousof

Please book in advance with us at: www.begabarber.ie Due to Covid-19 restrictions we have made a lot of changes in our barber shop.

Please bear with us and we will do our best to ensure you enjoy your visit to our barber shop. Thank you for taking time to read our guidelines below: ➤ Appointments are strongly

recommended. We may be able to accommodate the occasional ‘walk-in’ but strict priority will be given to those who have booked appointments.

Please note there is no facility to book over the phone, or by calling in, or by asking a staff member.

Bookings can only be made online at www.begabarber.ie

➤ We ask you not to wear gloves as they will have to be removed on arrival. ➤ Please come to your appointment alone as OUR WAITING AREA IN THE SHOP IS NOW CLOSED OFF. ➤ Children MUST stay in the chair alone, their parents have to wait outside as we are only allowed a very limited number of people inside the shop (including the staff).

➤ Anyone entering the shop MUST wear a face mask for the entire length of their appointment. We will have some available if you don't have your own mask.

➤ Please arrive 5-10 minutes early for your appointment. If you come late you may not get your full allocated time or the booking may have to be rescheduled as we expect to be fully booked and we can't reduce the time allocated to the following appointments.

➤ Everyone MUST sanitise their hands on arrival.

➤ Everyone will be required to fill out a form upon arrival, this will be kept for a month and

destroyed after this period if not needed by the HSE for Contact Tracing. ➤ Our staff will be wearing face masks and face shields. ➤ Appropriate disinfecting and sanitising of all equipment, towels and gowns will be completed after each client. ➤ Please bring your own newspaper or other reading material as we will not be able to provide these at this time. ➤ We are no longer providing any service that includes cut-throat blades (cut-throat shave, head shave, or facial mask and shave). ➤ If you are feeling unwell or you have been in contact with someone who is unwell, please do not come to the shop and call us and we will reschedule.

4th May 2021 - Page 13

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Liam Waters with Enniscorthy Credit Union Manager, Liz Cullen.

Best of luck Liam, on your retirement Last month Enniscorthy Credit Union celebrated the 57th anniversary of its founding and at the same time said farewell and good luck to someone who has given so much to its growth and development.

involved in bringing about a lot of those changes. He remains passionate about the Credit Union movement and what it stands for and will be greatly missed by his colleagues and friends in Enniscorthy Credit Union and beyond.

Liam Waters has been a valued member of staff since 2008, and before that he was a member of the Board of Directors from 1976, so that’s 45 years of dedicated service in total.

In the words of one of those colleagues: “Thank you for your service Liam and we would like to wish you every happiness in your new chapter, may it be full of new adventures with your beloved wife Bernie and your beautiful family.” n

Liam has seen many changes over his 45 years and has been

Page 14 - 4th May 2021

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UNIVERSITY FOR THE SOUTH EAST...

IS THIS THE REAL DEAL?

I, like all who have kept a watchful eye on this subject, warmly welcome the announcements coming from WATERFORD IT and CARLOW IT of their intent to merge into a UNIVERSITY OF THE SOUTH EAST. This decision is a decade in the traps but only a few short years in the making. It is still in the early stages but a major milestone has been achieved.

To get to this point was only a pipe dream three years ago because there was so much at stake and I dare say there still is. I remember many REGIONAL ASSEMBLY meetings up to ten years ago where it was debated at length but it was impossible to get either college to attend to discuss the matter and they refused to engage with each other on the project.

The Department of Education stipulated then that it would only accept a joint submission for A SOUTH EAST REGION UNIVERSITY and nothing less. The game was on.

The stakes were high on many fronts with some spreading way outside of education. There is revenue and future streams from the Department and other outlets to consider, and the revenue and cooperation and supports from private companies especially in research and development which WATERFORD IT excel in to their credit. The attraction to investment of having a university cannot be understated and the IDA and ENTERPRISE IRELAND will tell you it is essential in delivering the high value companies or any companies to the region. The capability of competing nationally and internationally as an attractive campus is

ests over the bigger picture. The years of non-engagement in the process.

TOWN TALK

WITH KEITH DOYLE important. Then there are the 18,000 students involved, and there are more from WEXFORD than any other county to achieve university student status. That is a lot to ponder and it affects the wider public as well as the campus involved, and also there is a tinge of bragging rights.

I am very happy with the news and wish a speedy completion to the merging process, but it is tinged with sadness at the length of time it has taken. Shadow boxing and protecting of respective inter-

We lost a generation of people who either left the region for university status or dropped out of the system. Cost and distance was a burden to them and their parents. We lost a decade of potential economic growth for the region as we fell further behind in any statistic you care to mention. We cost many families and students from Wexford millions of euro each year – leaving the county and the region, and many people never returning to their native county. That is why there were so many local Councillors and national TDs and Senators willing to do all they could to bring this merging process to where we are today.

Five names keep cropping up in this story who have gone those extra miles to push this agenda: MARY BUTLER TD, SENATOR JOHN CUMMINS from Waterford, and SENATOR MALCOLM BYRNE, BRENDAN HOWLIN TD and CLLR JIM MOORE from Co. Wexford.

There are many more who contributed also, but hats off to the boards of WATERFORD IT and CARLOW IT in now reaching this point.

The new university name has not yet been finalised but it will have three locations including a WEXFORD CAMPUS to be announced shortly. The Minister for Education must now stress test the proposal and financially back it. I am sure the staff involved have much to iron out and a few hiccups are to be expected, but please God this ship is now launched and is eager to set sail. n

Waterford IT, which will be merging with Carlow IT to create a Technological University of the South East.

4th May 2021 - Page 15

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Movement on Murphy Floods site?

Computer generated view of possible retail units on the old Murphy Floods Hotel site.

The old Murphy Floods Hotel site in the centre of Enniscorthy, which was being used as a “dumping ground” in the words of Enniscorthy Councillor, Jackser Owens, has now been surrounded by a wooden hoarding to deter illegal activity there.

Some details from the auctioneer’s website:

In a recent issue, we reported that Wexford County Council, having acquired the adjoining Kickham’s House in 2020, is in discussion with the owner of the Murphy Floods site with the Council ‘looking at all options’ according to District Manager Ger Mackey.

Last week, local auctioneering firm, Sherry Fitzgerald O’Leary Kinsella, put up some computer generated views of proposed retails units for the site.

It remains to be seen what the future holds for this valuable site. n

Page 16 - 4th May 2021

Site location and area marked in red.

SlaNey ad

Come what May, we're back!

Thank you for supporting us and remember to continue to #shopenniscorthy www.shopenniscorthy.ie

@shopenniscorthy

Get in touch to feature for free to info@shopenniscorthy.ie 4th May 2021 - Page 17

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e s i r p r e t n E y h t e r r o t c n s e i C n y n E g o l o n h c e &T Enniscorthy Enterprise & Technology Centre (EETC) work Hub has been in operation since 2002. The centre has 34 rentable private offices, suitable for both the freelance individual or up to a ten-person business office. We are the one stop shop for all your business needs, whether you are a small company or working for a large scale multinational.

We provide Postal Services, Photocopying, Scanning, 3D Printing and many more services.

EETC is currently launching our very own Content Creation Studio as well as a 12-desk open-plan co-working space.

CONTENT CREATION STUDIO The Enterprise Centre is proud to announce our new service – Content Creation Studio. This studio is available to businesses and individuals alike to create quality content for all of your platforms - Social Media, Websites, Webinars, Tutorials, and Marketing. Expertly adapted or newly created content media draws an audience and builds engagement with your customers whilst growing your presence in the target market.

We bring your ideas to life, with the professional tools, personnel and marketing experience to create and execute quality content that will show your business in a new light.

Bring your business content to the forefront, with unique social

media creations, professional photography and video production, that invites your audience to engage in your digital and physical media.

THE ENTERPRISE CENTRE’S CO-WORKING SPACE Remote working has become a necessity due to the COVID19 pandemic.

Working from home has not and does not suit everyone. Coworking space combines the need to 'go out' to work with a designated desk space, without the time consuming commute.

Professionally run co-working space is the perfect solution for individuals who work for companies requiring high speed broadband, with secure firewalled LAN & Wi-Fi connections, free parking, 24/7 access, health & safety regulations, correct ergonomic layout. The Centre is a Licensed Quality Standard rentable space.

The co-working space is a bright room, with its south-facing position it catches the sun throughout the day. Each unit is fully socketed for all your equipment needs, with the spaces including clear dividers for both health & safety and privacy.

And more importantly the in-room kitchenette has an endless supply of coffee!

For more information see our Booking page: https://eetc.ie/shop/bookable-rooms/monthly-co-working-desk Or ring 053 9237499

Enniscorthy Enterprise & Technology Centre, Milehouse Road, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford,Y21 D8W6.

Tel: (053) 923 7499 Email: info@eetc.ie www.eetc.ie Page 18 - 4th May 2021

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GOREY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Hatch Lab, M11 Business Campus, Gorey. Tel: 053 9480689. www.thehatchlab.ie info@thehatchlab.ie or info@eetc.ie 4th May 2021 - Page 19

SlaNey NewS Sabine Rosler, the owner of Wells House, Ballyedmond, Gorey, extends a warm welcome to all in Co. Wexford to come and visit one of Ireland’s top award-winning tourist attractions, right on our own doorstep.

A warm welcome at Wells Voted Ireland’s No.1 family day out by the Irish Hospitality Awards!

Spend a day with the elegant backdrop of the 17th century Victorian House and a history dating back to the days of Cromwell and the famine. Stroll the formal gardens and arboretum, enjoy a picnic on the terrace and lawns!

Explore 450 acres of enchanting woodlands and gardens, including fairy and gruffalo walks, animal farm, playground, Mogue’s walk and much more.

Enjoy refreshments and treats onsite at Brambles Restaurant which is open on a takeaway basis.

PHOTOS. Top left: Proprietor, Sabine Rosler, outside Wells House and Gardens, Wells, Gorey.

Above right: For your refreshments and takeaways, Emma Doyle of ‘Brambles’ catering in Wells House.

Right: Meet the meerkats at Wells House and Gardens.

Far right: Getting into the swing of things was Danny Hughes at Wells House and Gardens. n

Page 20 - 4th May 2021

SlaNey NewS

Above: Go PURPLE DAy, FRIDAy 23RD APRIL, 2021.

Garda David Fitzgerald pictured with Mary Millar of Wexford Women’s Refuge to help awareness and raise funds for domestic abuse services.

Go Purple Day is a joint initiative between An Gárda Síochána and domestic abuse services nationwide to raise awareness about domestic abuse and support local domestic abuse services.

If you are a victim of Domestic Abuse, please don't suffer in silence.

Contact your local Garda station in confidence.

Right: Happy Birthday to Grants Pharmacy, The Duffry, Enniscorthy, which last month celebrated its tenth birthday. Pictured is staff member Nicola Murphy Collins.

Major easing of restrictions Paul Kehoe TD has welcomed the major easing of Covid-19 restrictions announced last week, saying, “Lots of hopeful news as the vaccine rollout makes huge inroads and infection and hospitalisation numbers remain stable.

“This is all possible because of the efforts and sacrifices that we have all made over the last

number of months. The turnaround from where we were at the start of the year is an incredible achievement.

“As always, we need to continue to be cautious, to social distance, wash our hands and wear our masks. If we keep going in the right direction we have the makings of a great summer ahead – let's just hope the weather plays ball.” n Paul Kehoe TD

4th May 2021 - Page 21

SlaNey ad SLANEY NEWS

VTOS Enniscorthy & Gorey Adult Education Programmes – Enrolling Now Free Courses – Friendly Environment & Gorey VTOS Enniscorthy VTOS Enniscorthy QQI Adult Educational Programmes 2021-2022 FREE Courses in a friendly environment

VTOS (Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme) courses are now enrolling in the Enniscorthy and Gorey FET (Further Education & Training) Centres. These great Free courses are full-time and offer QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland) programmes to qualifying adults. Now, more than ever, these courses offer fantastic opportunities for people to return to education and the workplace.

Are you interested in gaining new skills in an adult friendly learning environment?

Or perhaps you would like to change career paths? The VTOS teams in Enniscorthy and Gorey have a great range of free programmes (for eligible students) on offer for September 2021 and they are open for applications now.

All programmes on offer lead to nationally recognised QQI Major awards at Levels 3, 4 and 5. This means that VTOS students can begin at a level that suits their needs and prior learning experiences while progressing through the QQI Levels. All programmes at VTOS cater specifically for adults and their teachers are experienced in creative teaching approaches in small, friendly class groups. Aislinn Brennan Co-ordinator in VTOS Enniscorthy describes VTOS as a ‘friendly, fun, positive and supportive place of learning’ saying ‘at VTOS we are passionate about learning and work very hard to ensure that our learners feel comfortable and at home in their centre’. This view is seconded by Noreen Traynor VTOS Co-ordinator in Gorey who says ‘at VTOS we are strongly committed to our learners and we strive to create a welcoming and engaging learning environment for everyone here’.

www.waterfordwexford.etb.ie Page 22 - 4th May 2021

The programmes on offer in September offer a wide range of options. At Level 3 there are options for individuals who may

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Here’s what some VTOS Learners have to say:

“I would highly recommend the Business Administration course for anyone interested in Retail, Office, Business, Accounting or IT. It has been a very enjoyable experience and the best decision I

have ever made.” – Laura “I was always the girl who said college wasn’t for me but here I am in my first year of college, succeeding quite well might I add and it is all because of VTOS.” – Nicole “I never enjoyed school but I thoroughly enjoyed VTOS. I would 100% recommend VTOS for any age or any stage in life.”

– Michelle If this sparks your interest, why not give Aislinn a call for VTOS in Enniscorthy (087 1448693) or call Noreen in VTOS Gorey (087 1170569) for more information. * Eligiblilty for VTOS – Over the age of 21 and in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment.

4th May 2021 - Page 23

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SlaNey NewS

Pulse Point App will save lives – download it now!

PulsePoint is a new App available to the general public to assist them access an AED (defibrillator) in the Enniscorthy area. The App is now live and puts the power in people’s hands to save lives.

For example, in recent weeks the defibrillator in Enniscorthy Garda Station was used to save a man’s life.

The App project is the result of a collaboration between Michael Devereux of the Enniscorthy Defibrillator Initiative, Paddy Redmond of Enniscorthy Red Cross and Enniscorthy CBS student Harry Nolan.

And the trio are appealing to everyone to download the App now.

When a cardiac emergency strikes, (AED) can help save a life. But that takes knowing where AEDs are located.

HELP SAVE LIVES. LOCATE & REGISTER AEDS. 1

3

2

é à ê Ñèà Åâ âÑ{Ñ { }Z Ç áä çã ê Fourth fl oor, le ft of the elevators

ADD AE D

The PulsePoint AED App allows the user to instantly see where the closest defibrillator is in an emergency. One can also click on each listed defibrillator to see information such as location, address, Eircode, access, contact info, and a what3words location. The graphic on this page shows all the Enniscorthy locations.

If you have an AED in your workplace or community, you can use the ‘Add AED’ feature to submit AEDs to the App so it can be found in an emergency.

The App was originally developed in the U.S. and has been customised for the Enniscorthy area by Harry Nolan. It’s likely that it will be rolled out in rest of the county over time with local committees involved. Sports clubs should get on board also so that their players can get quick defibrillator access if needed.

For anyone considering purchasing and installing a defibrillator, it would make sense to contact Michael or Paddy for expert advice and to ensure any new devices are of the same high standard and consistent with the existing defibrillators in the Enniscorthy area. The cost of a new device is around €1,600 including supply and installation.

The App is available on Android and Apple.

Apple: https://tinyurl.com/DefibApp-Apple Android: https://tinyurl.com/AndroidDefibApp Also check out the ‘Enniscorthy Defibrillator Initiative’ Facebook page.

The administrator is a young local man Shane Roche who is assisting the group with its IT needs. n

Page 26 - 4th May 2021

Locate an AED.

Learn more at pulsepoint.org Download PulsePoint AED

Register the AED using the PulsePoint AED app or at aed.new.

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Add a photo of the AED in the context of its surroundings.

PulsePoint AED lets you report and update AED locations so that emergency responders, including nearby citizens them when a cardiac emergency occurs.

SlaNey NewS TIME TO OPEN UP The people of this country have had a torrid 12 months. Lockdown after lockdown, restricted travel and, let’s be honest, a return to the valley of the squinting windows where in cases neighbours have spied on neighbours in their zeal to support even more restrictions than existed at a given time. It has to be said also that the relationship Irish people had with the Gardaí may have changed for the worse in many areas of the country as they have been seen as being the main enforcers of very unpopular government policies. This applies particularly in places where the Gardaí have stopped the celebration of Mass and the ordering of elderly people from the churches that priests had opened. Very few people could understand how it was unsafe to have 20 or 30 well behaved, mostly older people in a 500-or-more-seat church while it was safe for supermarkets etc to be busy right through the pandemic without any evidence that these businesses contributed to the spread of covid.

Taking all of the above into consideration and looking at the numbers of people in hospital, it is clear that the time has come to open up the country.

The roll-out of the vaccine, however slow, will also protect a large proportion of the population. Anyone, other than those who do not wish to, can clearly see that the government has lost the people. The lockdown and restrictions are over as far as the public are concerned. People are out and about.

They are buying takeaway coffees and food, being handled by shop assistants and themselves, and we don’t see people falling down dead in the streets.

Therefore, there is no justification whatsoever for continuing to keep retail locked down. It is serving no purpose other than depriving hundreds of thousands of people of their livelihood and costing the taxpayers billions in financial supports. On top of that Amazon etc are taking billions of euro out of this country, money which normally would be spent in Irish retailers. As far as I can see the only people who still think that lockdown is in place are those in the bubble of NPHET who are advising, or maybe instructing, the government. Time for change is here. Open Up.

COST OF LOCKDOWN The cost of the lockdown is shortly coming home to roost. Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (or

View from the Centre

A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond Minister for Austerity as we know from past experience) is already talking about payback and has even referred to Troika type measures. He’s also talking about cutting the PUP payment. We all know what that means unfortunately. When all of this lands in our laps we’ll very quickly discover that the slogan, “We’re all in this together” is no more than a meaningless platitude. So, brace ourselves for the next chapter.

REVIEW OF SALARIES Seeing that we will shortly be going into a period of austerity to pay for the

cost of Covid supports, surely the time has arrived to examine the salaries we pay to our public officials. For instance, the CEO of the HSE is paid €420,000 per year. His counterpart in the United States (population 330m as against Ireland 5m) is paid the equivalent of €356,000 and the head of the NHS in Britain which has over 1 million employees, in comparison to the HSE’s 70,000, is paid the equivalent of €250,000 annually. The British Prime Minister (population 66m) has a salary the equivalent of €184,000 while our Taoiseach has a greater salary of €211,000 in a country with a population of 5m. For the record, the salary of the President of the United States is equal to €331,000 which is €1,700 a week less than we pay the head of our HSE. The time has come for a root and branch review of what this small country can afford to pay its higher public servants. We are continuously told that we cannot afford to pay our nurses, road sweepers or lower level clerical workers a cent more. This level of employee of the State was crucified during the recent recession and will be again. Furthermore, pensioners in Ireland have not received an increase since March 2019 and then it was the equivalent of a miserable €3.20 per week. The architects of that austerity, some of whom will be retiring soon on astronomical pensions, or those who are currently still in the employment of the State are being rewarded with massive salary increases. This is all inexplicable. The question is, who will have the courage to initiate such a review. n

Paul Reid, CEo of the HSE, gets paid €1,700 a WEEk MoRE than the President of the United States.

4th May 2021 - Page 27

SlaNey NewS Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is an extensive and sensitive subject and the good news is there is now a treatment option available over the counter, without a prescription, from your pharmacist.

also cause ED because a reduced libido makes it more difficult for the brain to trigger an erection. Psychological conditions, such as depression, can reduce libido, as can changes in hormone levels.

Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is the inability to get and maintain an erection that is sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. ED is a very common condition, particularly in older men, but can and does affect all age groups. It is estimated that half of all men between the ages of 40 and 70 will have it to some degree. It is also thought that 1 in 3 men will suffer from ED at some stage of their lives. The worrying part is that some men will not seek help for this common condition for three years after symptoms first appear. That’s three years of tolerating something that there is a treatment for! If someone had a headache for three years, we would find it shocking if treatment was not used to alleviate the symptoms. It is similar with ED – it is treatable and now easy to access that treatment. Last year, men with ED had to go to their GP to get treatment. Now, they can still go this route but, in addition to their GP, treatment is available from any pharmacy, no appointment needed and no fee for consultation.

Physical causes

What causes erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can have many causes, such as other medical conditions, certain medications and stress related (psychological) issues. Psychological reasons only account for about 10% of cases.

To understand more about the possible causes of erectile dysfunction (ED), it is useful to understand how erections occur.

When a man becomes sexually excited, his brain sends signals to the nerves in his penis. The nerves increase the blood flow to the penis, causing the tissue to expand and harden. Therefore, anything that interferes with the nervous system or the blood circulation could lead to ED. Anything that affects libido (level of sexual desire) can

There are four main types of health conditions that can cause physical problems resulting in ED. These are:  Vasculogenic – conditions that affect the flow of blood to your penis – including cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.  Neurogenic – conditions that affect your nervous system, which is made up of your brain, nerves and spinal cord, e.g. multiple sclerosis, parkinson’s disease, stroke or spinal cord injury.  Hormonal – conditions that affect your hormone levels, such as thyroid gland problems, or conditions that affects the production of the male sex hormone, testosterone, causing abnormally low levels of this hormone.

This is the first in a series of articles by Leonie Grant of Grants Pharmacy with branches in Enniscorthy, Wexford, Gorey and Arklow. This month Leonie discusses Erectile Dysfunction (ED), its causes and diagnosis.

 Anatomical – conditions that affect the physical structure of your penis.

ED is strongly associated with cardiovascular disease, so it’s important to keep that in mind when you first get symptoms and tell your GP or Pharmacist.

Medicinal causes In some men, certain medicines can cause ED, including:  Diuretics.  Antihypertensives – medicines, such as beta-blockers, that are used to treat high blood pressure.  Antipsychotics – medicines that are used to treat some mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia.  Antidepressants.  Anticonvulsants – medicines that are used to treat epilepsy.

It is thought that 1 in 3 men will suffer from ED at some stage of their lives.

Erectile Dysf  Cytotoxics – medication used in chemotherapy.

There are more medicines that can cause ED so speak to your Pharmacist or GP if you are concerned that a prescribed medicine is causing ED. Alternative medication may be available. However, it is important never to stop taking a prescribed medicine unless you are advised to do so by your GP. Psychological causes Possible psychological causes of ED include:  Depression – feelings of extreme sadness that last for a long time.  Anxiety – a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear.  Relationship problems, such as being unable to talk openly about any problems that you have.  Lack of sexual knowledge.  Past sexual problems.  Past sexual abuse.  Being in a new relationship.

Page 28 - 4th May 2021

SlaNey NewS  Exercising regularly.  Reducing stress.

Medication Options The most well-known medication for ED is Viagra (sildenafil). Chemically this is in a group of medicines known as Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors.

They are one of the most widely used and effective treatments for ED. They work by temporarily increasing the blood flow to your penis.

In Ireland, commonly used PDE-5 inhibitors include: Sildenafil – sold under the brand name Viagra.

Tadalafil – sold under the brand name Cialis.

Vardenafil – sold under the brand name Levitra.

Sildenafil and Vardenafil work for about eight hours and they are designed to work 'on demand'. Tadalafil lasts for up to 36 hours and is more suitable if you require treatment for a longer period of time, for example, over a weekend.

Leonie Grant

function (ED) Other causes Other possible causes of ED include:  Excessive alcohol intake.  Tiredness.  Being overweight or obese.  Using illegal drugs, such as cannabis, heroin or cocaine.

Helpful tips If your ED is caused by an underlying health condition, such as heart disease or diabetes, that condition may need to be treated firstly, before treatment for ED can begin. In some cases, treating the underlying cause may also resolve the problem of ED. Lifestyle changes can improve the symptoms of ED –

Depending on the medicine, it should take about 30-60 minutes before it starts to work. With sildenafil and vardenafil, you should be able to have sex from one to ten hours after taking the medicine. After taking tadalafil, the effects will last for up to 36 hours.

Only take one tablet within a 24-hour period. These medications used to be available only on prescription, but now one of them is available directly from your pharmacy without prescription following a brief private consultation with the Pharmacist.

It’s called Viagra Connect and contains sildenafil 50mg.

Viagra Connect is now available directly from Grants Pharmacy, without prescription.

Warnings There are times when these medicines are not suitable for you especially if you are also taking medicines or recreational drugs (‘poppers') that contain nitrates. The combination of the two substances can have a dangerous effect on your heart.

 Moderating your alcohol consumption.

Your GP or Pharmacist will assess if the medicines are suitable with your current prescription or medical history. These tablets can cause some side effects, including headaches and migraines, flushing (redness), nausea and vomiting and muscle pain.

 Not taking illegal drugs.

An alternative to tablets is to use a vacuum

 Losing weight if you are overweight.  Giving up smoking.

pump to treat ED. After using a vacuum pump, nine out of ten men are able to have sex, regardless of the cause of their ED. You should not use a vacuum pump if you have a bleeding disorder or if you are taking anticoagulant medicines, which reduce the ability of your blood to clot.

Side effects of vacuum pumps include pain or bruising, although these occur in less than a third of men.

ED can often be diagnosed by your GP. They will talk to you about your situation and guide you. If you have ED, you can now also talk to your Pharmacist, in private and in confidence, about getting the medicine (viagra connect) to treat it. You answer some simple questions about any medication you are on, and the Pharmacist can assess if viagra connect is suitable for you, then you just purchase it without any more fuss. The Pharmacist will advise you to visit the doctor within the following months in case the ED is a symptom of some medical condition, like high blood pressure or diabetes. The Pharmacist will give you a little leaflet to show you have filled out the confidential form so you will not have to repeat the consultation process each visit.

So for the next supply of viagra, the supply is even easier and quicker too.

Your Pharmacst will not ask questions about your sexual history. Pharmacies dispense medicine for ED every day, multiple times each day, so there is no need to feel anxious or self-conscious. We are here to make your life better in a safe and supportive environment and you can feel reassured that the medicine is authentic. Pharmacies must scan every medication on a European database to validate its authenticity – to make sure it contains exactly what is says on the label and nothing else. Internet purchases can contain anything which may be ineffective or worse, dangerous or poisonous.

Grants Pharmacy is open 6 days a week for any queries on the above or any other worry you may have, or phone us for more advice. Every Grants Pharmacy has a private consultation room where you can discuss any personal ailments discreetly and without embarrassment. We use these rooms where it is safe to do so during Covid. Pop in and experience a fast, friendly and informed service. Grants Pharmacy is located in Wexford, Enniscorthy (Duffry and Rafter St), Gorey and Arklow. If you would prefer to chat to a male Pharmacist, please phone Rafter Street to talk to Glenn or James or Martin.

Tel: 053-9236456. n

4th May 2021 - Page 29

SlaNey NewS

‘Hope and Dream’ raises € The Hope and Dream 10 fundraiser for the Hope Cancer Support Centre in Enniscorthy and the County Wexford Hospice Homecare Service raised its largest amount ever in 2020 – an incredible €180,572 to be exact, despite having had to run the event in a virtual format due to Covid-19 restrictions. The record amount raised is particulary important now as most of the two charities’ other fundraising streams have been decimated due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Race director, Michael Jordan, said he and all involved were thrilled with the amount raised, which was officially revealed last month. And he was fulsome in his praise for the event sponsors (including main sponsor Enniscorthy Credit Union) who covered all the costs including t-shirts, postage etc so that all the money raised could be retained by the two benefiting charities – the Hope Cancer Support Centre (60%) and Wexford Hospice (40%).

The 2020 event was postponed twice before finally taking place in virtual format which opened up the event to many people e.g. those overseas, those in care homes, those with a disability, who normally can’t easily participate in such an event. So it became a local, national and global fundraiser.

What started off ten years ago as a once-off event, has now, incredibly, raised over €1.3m.

The organisers are grateful to their sponsors, the general public for their ongoing support, the race volunteers and, of course, Denise McDonald, the Hope Centre’s administration manager, who have kept this event running successfully year after year.

While Covid-19 has taken centre stage nationally and locally for the past year, the crucial work of providing the highest level of support possible to those affected by cancer, and their families, all year round, continues. With funds raised from Hope and Dream over recent years,

Amount rai by the 2 sed 020 Hope an d Dream 10:

€180,57

2

The 2020 Hope and Dream 10 raised €180,572. L-R: Sean McCarthy, General Manager, Hope Cancer Support Centre, Denise McDonald, Administration Manager. the Hope Centre has been able to purchase the building next door to the existing Hope Centre with a view to expanding the range of services available.

Now that we are slowly emerging from Covid lockdown, the Hope Centre expects to see increasing demand for its services over the coming months.

existing services can be maintained and and, indeed, expanded. Being the tenth anniversary of the event should provide an added impetus and the hope is it will be the most successful ever. Plans are already well advanced for what promises to be an extra special event.

It is hoped that the Hope charity shop on Millpark Park Road, Enniscorthy, which has been closed for most of the last year, can reopen soon.

Looking ahead, the 2021 Hope and Dream event will again be a virtual one and will be officially launched on 20th July when full details will be made public. For the 2021 event, all money raised from the Hope and Dream 10 will remain with the Hope Centre to ensure

OVER €180,000 RAISED BY THE 2020 ‘HOPE & DREAM’ EVENT – AN AMAZING ACHIEVEMENT!!!

See related video: https://www.facebook.com/sharkeyliam/videos/4247191768625142

Page 30 - 4th May 2021

working with local communities in the county to promote climate action.

SlaNey NewS

Wexford Communities 4 Climate Action is a free 8-session training course for Wexford community Hope Cancer Support groups looking to get climate ready. its Centre launches

180,572!

REGIST ERNOW

Working on the new Hope Cancer Support Centre website, L-R: www.esdtraining.net Denise McDonald, Administration gavin@esdtraining.net Manager, and Sean McCarthy, +353 86 8280978 General Manager.

new website The Hope Cancer Support Centre launched its new website on 30th March.

The new website allows people to: ➤ Access information about supports and services available locally.

Tuesday 18st of Mayitems - 19:00 to 20:30 ➤ View a range online from To begin we offer an onlinepay session to help the Hope Charity Shop, order, participants better understand their online forlearning them, and have them Led delivered. environment.

by Gavin Harte ➤ Make online donations and submit online fundraising event proposals.

1. Getting Started Online

3. Community Resilience

2. Let’s Talk Climate Action Thursday 20th May - 19:00 to 20:30 Learn about climate change and the challenges, opportunities and actions local communities can take towards becoming climate smart and resilient. Led by Gavin Harte

The Hope 25th Centre forwards Tuesday Maylook - 19:00 to 20:30to you visiting its new website at healthy and Sets the context for building www.hopesupportcentre.ie sustainable communities – backed by stronger and more resilient local economies. Led by Davie Philip

4. Managing Energy and Transport

5. Sustainable Energy Communities

In this session we examine energy use and transportation, and related opportunities for your community. Led by Gavin Harte

Thursday 27th May - 19:00 to 20:30

Free climate action training Tuesday 1st June - 19:00 to 20:30

Learn how the SEAI Sustainable Energy Communities programme supports communities to develop energy management skills and knowledge. Led by Gavin Harte and 3CEA

7. What is an Energy Masterplan?

Thursday 10th June - 19:00 to 20:30 In this module learners will be encouraged to explore a partnership with the SEAI Exploring potential projects for energy efficiency and renewable energy. Led by Gavin Harte and 3CEA

Google Classroom & Zoom Meetings All classes will be delivered on Zoom

6. Water and Climate Change Tuesday 8th June - 19:00 to 20:30

How does your community consider water as a resource, and what are the implications of climate change on the availability of water and access to water? Led by Eileen Flanagan

8. Follow up Workshop 1/2 day face to face workshop - Date TBC Subject to COVID-19 restrictions this session will build cohesion between participants, leaving a network of Wexford Communities 4 Climate Action. Led by Gavin Harte and 3CEA

All participants must have a working Gmail address to access Google Classroom. y-Step Guide

click here to register REGISTERNOW

Funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development

Wexford Communities 4 Climate Action is a FREE 4 week online course for communities in County Wexford who want to engage practically with climate action and energy efficiency. Course commences on 18th May 2021, limited places available.

Course outline / booking: https://www.wld.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Climate-Action-Training-Summary-Booking-Link.pdf Feedback from course participant: "Excellent, committed, passionate and knowledgeable tutors delivering an excellent course designed to empower communities to collaborate and work together for climate action. So glad to have had the opportunity to take this course." n

8th March 4th May 2021 - Page 31

SlaNey NewS

Government supports Sinn Fein’s move to secure An Post Sinn Féin TD for Wexford Johnny Mythen last week welcomed news that the Government has accepted Sinn Féin amendments to a Seanad motion on the future of An Post.

It would have been completely hypocritical to call for a PSO and then drop support for it once in government.

“People who rely on their post offices were watching intently to see if they did what they promised and, fortunately, Fianna Fáil supported the Sinn Féin amendments.

The Sinn Féin amendments called on the government to introduce a Public Service Obligation (PSO) to secure the future of our post office network and prevent further post office closures.

Deputy Mythen said: “The post office is the heart of rural Ireland and yet the postal service has been blighted by closures and hobbled by cutbacks. We need urgent action and significant investment from the government if we don’t want further closures.

“Sinn Féin fully supports the call of the Irish Postmasters’ Union for a PSO and we have been advocating for this for over a decade.

“Since 2018, more than 200 post offices have closed nationwide. In Co. Wexford these closures included Kiltealy, Ballycogley and Kilmore Quay amongst others.

Wexford TD Johnny Mythen

“Notably, Fianna Fáil also supported a PSO when in opposition and spoke in favour of it during a Dáil debate on a Sinn Féin motion in 2018.

“However, support for a PSO was conspicuously absent from this week’s Seanad motion brought by Fianna Fáil.

“Without support of the PSO, the State faces significant levels of unrestrained closures according to a report by Grant Thornton commissioned by the Irish Postmasters’ Union. Simply calling on the government is not enough. Now we need to follow this commitment up with action.

Without urgent action we’ll see more closures.” n

Call for digital green certs asap The Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) is calling on Government to support and engage with the EU and implement Digital Green Certificates as soon as possible, which could allow travel to resume within the EU later this year. The ITAA believe that these certificates could help to repair some of the damage caused to the Irish travel sector as a result of the COVID19 pandemic.

This initiative will not work unless all member states are prepared and willing to implement the certificates in a timely manner and follow the same structure across all EU countries.”

It is estimated that under EU guidelines, it could take up to six weeks to put this system in place. The Association believe that further delaying the implementation of the Digital Green Certificates would mean that Ireland will fall behind other EU member states in terms of reopening inbound and outbound travel, which would cause further problems for the Irish travel industry.

ITAA CEO Pat Dawson said, “We are calling on Government to ensure that there is no delay in the rollout of the

Page 32 - 4th May 2021

Digital Green Certificates, to avoid being left behind as the other 26 EU countries begin to reopen their borders for travel.

He continued, “The ITAA have continually been calling for the implementation of some kind of digital certification since last year, and believe that this would drastically improve the prospects of resuming travel between EU countries. There is undoubtedly a pentup demand for travel as consumers have been unable to travel for over a year now; many people would like to get overseas to see family, resume business travel and take a well-deserved break after this difficult period. We want to work with Government to implement this initiative as soon as possible in order to begin avoid falling behind other EU member states, so that we are well prepared in order to safely resume international travel.” n

SlaNey NewS

We would be delighted to receive stories and photos from our readers around the county.

If you have anything you’d like us to share, please email slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as many photos and stories as possible.

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

4th May 2021 - Page 33

SlaNey NewS Motor Neurone Fundraising L-R: Vanessa Davey (organising committee), Paddy Dwyer (Hook Ringers Cycle Club and organising committee), former TD Hugh Byrne.

Motor Neurone Fundraiser: Nicky Doyle and Martin Doyle from the County Senior Hurling team.

Fundraising for Motor Neurone Motor Neurone Disease is possibly the most dreaded disease of all, in that there is no known cause and no known cure.

A major fundraiser in Co. Wexford is being organised

by Vanessa Davey. From now until June 21st, Motor Neurone Disease Awareness Day, you are asked to walk, run or cycle as much as you like. Take a picture and post on social media on June 21st with the hashtag #MMMforIMNDA and you will receive a t-shirt.

You do not have to take part in the fitness element if you do not wish to do so. To date Vanessa has raised over €9,000 and rising, and is hoping to reach €10,000!

You can donate to the fundraiser here.

The purpose of the fundraising is to create a greater awareness of this terrible disease and to do research in the hope that a cure can be found. Research is ongoing, but there is no government support for the many services provided by the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and the four dedicated nurses covering the entire country (yes only 4!) are funded solely by donations.

If you would like more information, please contact organiser Vanessa Davey at 086-2247746 or check her Facebook page here. n Motor Neurone fundraising organiser, Vanessa Davey, at Slade Harbour with supporter, Verona Murphy TD.

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Back row L-R: Hugh Byrne, Cllr Michael Whelan (Wexford County Council), Vanessa Davey and Josie Sutton. Front L-R: Cian Byrne (former captain county minor hurling team), Oggie Doyle (St. Mogue's), Rory Whelan who has a junior form of motor neurone.

SlaNey NewS

Save Mount Leinster

Piercestown

The people who live in the Blackstairs region of Carlow/Wexford and love Mount Leinster, wish to protect this special wild place from industrialisation. Coillte proposes to build seven colossal wind turbines on the slopes of Mount Leinster, south of Myshall and Kildavin villages in East Carlow, and adjacent to a Special Area of Conservation. They would dominate the view from the 9 stones forever, with a proposed height of 178m – a scale that is normally placed offshore.

Funding was announced on 29th March for Piercestown village to allow an upgrade to the footpaths, village improvement and a safety crossing for pedestrians which will include flashing beacons.

Carlow Co. Co. made their decision on 18th March 2021 and they REFUSED planning for this proposed development. But Coillte lodged an appeal to An Bord Pleanála on 14th April 2021 and the outcome is awaited.

Details of the appeal can be found on the Coillte website: https://www.croaghaunwindfarm.ie/ Many locals consider there has been inadequate public consultation about this wind farm proposal and many in the community have been completely unaware of it.

A ‘Save Mount Leinster’ campaigh is ongoing. See the website: www.savemountleinster.com and https://gofund.me/85877bd0

St Aidan’s Parish St Aidan’s Parish Office and Shop are currently closed due to Covid restrictions but the phone is attended to Mon–Sat, 10am to 1pm, tel: 053-9235777. You can leave a message outside the above times.

Ballast Office The Ballast Office regeneration project in the heart of Wexford town at Crescent Quay went out to tender in March. Following assessment of tenders submitted, it is expected the contract will be awarded by the summer.

The new Wexford Volunteer Centre, Common Quay, Wexford, under the managership of Jane Byrne, hopes to have an online launch and a programme of events in place for National Volunteeer Week which begins on May 17. Later in the year it is hoped to open the doors more generally to the public.

Are you a registered organisation that could use some volunteer support?

Wexford Volunteer Centre can support in the recruitment and placement of volunteers for you.

Please register here and get involved https://www.i-vol.ie/register-yourorganisation/ Check out the Wexford Volunteer website: https://volunteerwexford.ie

Bridgetown Physical work has commenced on the Village field after nearly two years of applications, tenders and planning. The works will initially consist of a walking track, carpark, land drainage, landscaping and a multi-use all-weather sports pitch. The landscaping will consist of a park with seated areas, natural features, heritage items and art features. The walking track will include an area with outdoor gym equipment. The carpark will consist of 16 parking and 2 disabled parking bays which will service the new facilities and current play. The Bridgetown steering group will undertake planting, painting and in the future provide lighting for the area. Help is needed with all these physical activities. If you can help, leave your name and number with Diane Goff or other staff members in the Centra shop, or contact Bridgetown Community Development Group Facebook page, or contact any committee member.

Motor Neurone fundraising: Cllr Pat Barden, Adamstown, outside Adamstown’s ‘Ballroom of Romance’ supporting the Motor Neurone fund with organiser Vanessa Davey.

Cllr John Hegarty supporting the Motor Neurone fundraiser with organiser Vanessa Davey outside the CBS school, Wexford.

4th May 2021 - Page 35

SlaNey NewS

Courtown Pool progress At the April meeting of Wexford County Council, Cllr Andrew Bolger raised the situation regarding the pool in Courtown, and at the GoreyKilmuckridge District meeting of 20th April the CEO of Wexford County

Council, Tom Enright, told the councillors that the existing right of way for the woods would be kept. Cllr Bolger acknowledges the work of Mr Enright, and says, “It’s important we do all within our power to protect this local amenity.”

An announcement of the new investor in the pool is imminent and the pool reopening is then expected to happen some time over this summer.

As a past employee, Andew says: “I’d love to get back in for a swim.” n

Money to flow into water activities €19m will be invested by the government and Fáilte Ireland in 22 new world-class, accessible, Water Based Activity Facility Centres, including one in Curracloe.

The significant increase in people enjoying outdoor water-based activities such as kayaking, surfing, paddleboarding and open water swimming is expected to continue to grow year on year, and not just during the summer

Page 36 - 4th May 2021

months. This means all-weather changing facilities, secure storage and bathrooms at beaches and inland water spots will be in huge demand. Each centre will provide hot showers, changing and toilet facilities, secure storage, induction spaces, equipment washdown and orientation points. They will be fully wheelchair accessible and built using sustainability best practices such as solar heating panels to meet ‘Nearly Zero Energy Building Standards’.

This investment will support the local economy and the outdoor activity sector by significantly enhancing the overall visitor experience, providing new business opportunities in local communities and allowing for the extension of the tourism season beyond the traditional summer months.

Up to €750,000 is available for the Curracloe centre with the first phase due to be finished next summer. n

SlaNey NewS

Smile – you’re on camera!

Litter louts beware – the local authorities in Co. Wexford are taking you seriously!

Our photo shows a camera focusing on a litter hot-spot in Wexford town.

In Enniscorthy, District Manager Ger Mackey reported last month that final specifications and locations are being discussed with the Gardaí to allow for the procurement of cameras and associated civil works. It is expected that the CCTV project for the town will be operational towards the end of 2021. n

On 8th May 2021, Darkness Into Light is going socially distanced!

Join Pieta and Electric Ireland for a special Darkness Into Light sunrise, and give the gift of hope to those impacted by suicide and self-harm.

Join in any way you can – walk, swim, bike or simply share your sunrise moment.

Full details on: https://www.darknessintolight.ie/home-page-2021 4th May 2021 - Page 37

SlaNey food & driNk

Enniscorthy’s ‘Via Veneto’ achieves ‘Gold Standard’ Via Veneto, Enniscorthy’s famous Italian restaurant, is delighted to be the first Italian restaurant in Ireland to be awarded the 100% Italian Taste Gold Standard Certification.

The restaurant went through rigorous inspection, throughout the current pandemic, in order to obtain this award and is thrilled to have received it.

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

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

Check out the full menu here.

Page 38 - 4th May 2021

SlaNey food & driNk

Grow your own with Enniscorthy Community Allotments

A number of local people in Enniscorthy have come together to develop a plan for a community allotment.

The first step is to see what people living in the area think about the idea and to find out if there is a need for an allotment in the community. A survey has been designed for this purpose. The organisers warmly welcome any ideas you may have to add to the planning and designing stage.

The data collected will be used only for the purpose of this project.

Please complete the survey here and add your comments where the “other” option is available.

Wexford Local Development’s Community Development team is assisting the project and a short report on the findings will be produced over the next few months.

For more information: enniscorthyallotments@gmail.com n

4th May 2021 - Page 39

SlaNey food & driNk

THE IRISH CHEF FROM ENNISCORTHY

Justin Moorehouse is a chef living in Galway but originally from Enniscorthy.

He started a Youtube channel called ‘The Irish Chef’ during the first lock-

down initially to share some recipes

few trending recipes also.

with friends in Boston and New York.

Check out Justin’s Youtube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/TheIrishCh ef/videos n

Now it’s turned into over 80 videos and counting of mostly Irish recipes with a

Aidan’s new addition A new addition to the flourishing coffee shop scene in Rosslare Strand is the ‘Rosslare Beachcomber’.

Proprietor Aidan Meyler opened for business last month serving freshly roasted coffee, leaf teas, sweet and savoury treats, chocolates and much more.

Check out ‘Rosslare Beachcomber’ on Facebook. n

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SlaNey food & driNk

Keep cool on Wexford Quay

‘Scúp Irish Gelato’ is one of the three businesses granted permission to install a stand on Wexford Quay this year.

Irish dairy produce is widely regarded as the best in the world so Scúp couples the highest quality Irish milk and cream with authentic ingredients like fresh

Wexford Strawberries, Sicilian Bronte Pistachios and Madagascan Vanilla to create a mixture which is churned into an amazingly creamy, smooth and flavoursome gelato.

Each flavour is made in small handmade batches to ensure care and quality is given to every last tub.

The team in Scúp also produce a range of Sorbets that are consistently smooth and refreshing with every spoonful.

Gelato and Sorbets available on Wexford Quay throughout this summer, daily from 11.00am - 7.00pm. Enjoy! www.scupgelato.com n

The fruits of their labour...

Margaret and John Mernagh of Danescastle Fruit Farm Ltd, Wellingtonbridge, with some of their early strawberry crop on 13th April 2021.

4th May 2021 - Page 41

SlaNey food & driNk

Takeaway – it’s the way to go Takeaways and coffee shops are springing up everywhere around Co. Wexford!

A new takeaway, Copper Chimney, specialising in Indian and Thai cuisine, opened last month on Slaney Street, Enniscorthy.

Head Chef and proprietor, Manu, and his family are originally from India but have resided in Ireland since 2000. Manu has worked in many top hotels and restaurants in India and Ireland and has been head chef in various hotels in Co. Wexford.

We wish this new business every success.

At Courtown Harbour, Geraldine Smith was happy with her fish and chips takeaway.

The new Indian/Thai ‘Copper Chimney’ takeaway in Enniscorthy.

Casual Outdoor Trading Following a competitive tendering competition with 22 applications being considered, the following business have been awarded licences to operate in the listed locations.

WEXFORD QUAYFRONT: La Cote restaurant.

The Pantry café.

Gelato Icecream.

MIN RYAN PARK: Ufucoffee.

CARRIGFOYLE TRAILS: La Cuisine.

All will operate under relevant Covid regulations and guidelines.

In Enniscorthy, expect to see some trading being licensed soon in the following locations: At Urrin Bridge on the Promenade Country Walk; at Vinegar Hill; at the Enniscorthy Sports Hub and in Bunclody’s Market Square. n

8th May March 2021 Page 42 - 4th 2021

The Pantry café, operating on Wexford’s quayfront.

SlaNey food & driNk

Award-winning Wexford Chef, Tony Carty, now has his own range of artisan breads and dressings on sale at selected outlets in Wexford.

Tony C’s fresh artisan bread from the oven is delivered to the following selected outlets: Kate’s Farm Shop | Flanagans Centra, Castlebridge | Hanrahans, Piercestown Boggans, Wexford | The Green Corner, Church Lane Car Park. Select from: Guinness Bread, Walnut & Cinnamon, Farmhouse Brown, Semi Dried Tomato & Basil.

Keep an eye out for Tony’s famous dressings: WEXFORD RASPBERRY, SMOKEY WHOLEGRAIN MUSTARD & HONEY, BLOOD ORANGE & BALSAMIC. And the latest addition, Tony C's Spice Rubs: Perfect for Mexican Spiced Chicken, Memphis BBQ Pork, Cajun Blackend Salmon, Moroccan Spiced Seabass to name just a few.

Check out Tony’s Facebook page. Click here. n

4th May 2021 - Page 43

SlaNey food & driNk Some of SuperValu’s ‘Freshly Prepared By’ convenient food range.

Home cooking soars SuperValu’s pulse of the nation survey shows that over half the nation are spending 1-2 hours cooking from scratch each day with 49% cooking between 4-6 dinners each week.

While these stats demonstrate a healthier approach to cooking as people are learning more about food and ingredients, respondents stated they are tired of cooking and spending this amount of time in the kitchen each day.

So, just in time for the easing of some lockdown measures giving the nation a little more freedom, SuperValu has launched its ‘Freshly Prepared By’ range of over 90 quality convenient meals and side dishes which SuperValu says, “give the convenient option without compromising on taste and quality and have been developed by our trading team following strong consumer insights along

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with input from some top chefs and local suppliers.”

Some findings of the national survey:  84% buy pre-prepared meals and/or takeaway to give them a muchneeded break  43% prefer the pre-prepared meals and side dishes options, an increase since the pandemic began, with 36% saying it is their go-to option 1-2 times per week  Factors considered most important when buying pre-prepared meals are quality (85%), taste (74%), convenience (51%) and price (50%)  Lasagne revealed as the firm favourite pre-prepared meal (22%) followed by curry and then pizza  Family favourites like spaghetti

bolognese and lasagne are still the most cooked mid-week meal with the traditional roast dinner continuing to be the must-have weekend meal for 1 in 2 families (49%).

As the kitchen has become the most used room in the house, three quarters of respondents claim they have tried new recipes since lockdown began with almost a third (29%) saying they have purchased ingredients throughout the pandemic that they would never have put in their trolley pre-lockdown. The survey reveals that the top four lockdown baking favourites have been cupcakes (45%), cookies (42%), soda bread (38%) and banana bread (33%).

Readers can check out the range of ‘Freshly Prepared By’ meals in local stores or on www.SuperValu.ie

SlaNey SlaNey foodadS & driNk

Leading the way to weight loss

Every Tuesday weigh-in with group run on Wednesday evening.

And every Friday weigh-in with group run on Saturday morning.

Enniscorthy Slimming World Consultant Tony McCann certainly knows from experience how Slimming World can help you succeed on on a weight-loss journey.

Providing you with a service no matter what the covid restrictions are.

Tony himself has lost five stone (32 kilos) and now he can help you achieve your own weight-loss goals while still enjoying lots of tasty food like in the recipe below.

New Members Welcome.

Call Tony now on 087-1785384 – he’s still providing a service while adhering fully to Covid restrictions.

Click here to check out Tony’s Facebook page n

Call Tony on 087 1785384.

See our Facebook page here

Slimming World Teriyaki Salmon Serves 4. Ready in 25 minutes.

What you need:  small bunch of spring onions  2 garlic cloves, peeled  1 tbsp lemon juice  ½ tsp Marmite  4 tbsp dark soy sauce  ½ tsp chilli powder  4 large skinless and boneless salmon fillets What you do: ❶ Preheat your oven to 200°C/ fan 180°C/gas 6. ❷ Separate the white and green parts of the spring onion, then roughly chop the white parts and put in a bowl. Add the garlic, lemon juice, Marmite, soy sauce, chilli powder and 90ml boiling water and blitz until smooth using a stick blender or liquidiser. ❸ Arrange the salmon fillets in an ovenproof dish, then finely slice the green parts of the spring onions and scatter over the fish. Pour the sauce over each fillet. Bake for 15 mins or until the salmon is cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly. ❹ Serve hot with vegetables and rice or noodles. n

4th May 2021 - Page 45

SlaNey ad

Comhairle Contae

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

Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

Free Workshops Wexford County Council in partnership with Creative Ireland are running a series of free advance workshops for young people in relation to Cruinniu na nOg a national day of creativity.

Workshops

workshops for young people on Zoom. The workshops will explore materials and encourage creativity and will include print making, mixed media and collage techniques.

Visit www.presentationcentre.ie for more information on materials needed and to book your free place.

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

Remote

Wexford County Council

Young people, aged 12-18, have the chance to respond,

Enniscorthy Municipal District

through the medium of photography, to given prompts week by week. Each of the four Zoom sessions is 90 minutes long, starting Saturday 8th of May – 29th from 3.30–5pm each

Casual Trading Act 1995 Licensing of Outdoor Trading Areas

week. Young people will need access to a computer/PC/tablet

Wexford County Council invites applications from interested

and an internet connection to participate.

parties for the licensed use of outdoor motorised vehicles or other mobile facility offering refreshments for sale,

Creative Filmmaking

including hot/cold non-alcoholic drinks, ice cream, snacks,

This fun, hands-on workshop series for 10–12 year olds will

at the following designated locations in Enniscorthy

allow them to work together to devise, film and edit a creative

Municipal District for the period 12th June, 2021 to 11th

documentary film using smartphones or whatever camera

June, 2022.

they have available. Each of the four Zoom sessions are 90

A. Urrin Bridge, Promenade/Country Walk

1 Unit

B. Vinegar Hill Carpark

1 Unit

to a computer/PC/tablet and an internet connection to

C. Enniscorthy Sports Hub

1 Unit

participate.

D. Market Square Bunclody

1 Unit

For more information or to register your child's interest in the

Further details and application forms are available online via

above workshops please contact: arts@wexfordcoco.ie

Wexford County Council website www.wexfordcoco.ie or on

minutes long, starting Saturday 8th of May – 29th from 11am–12.30pm each week. Young people will need access

request from the offices of Enniscorthy Municipal District.

Uke-N-Play, Music Generation Wexford Join Music Generation Wexford’s online ukulele workshops for young people in County Wexford. These workshops are for all

For queries please telephone Enniscorthy Municipal District Office on 053 9233540 or email enniscorthy@wexfordcoco.ie

ages up to eighteen years old. Pick up your ukulele, discover

Completed application forms should be submitted in a sealed

new chords, play new rhythms and perform new songs. These

envelope clearly marked “Application for Outdoor Trading

sessions will take place online through Zoom over 6 weeks

Licence 2021/2022” to:

starting May 8th, 11am–12pm.

Enniscorthy Municipal District Office, Market Square, For more information or to sign up please contact: musicgenerationwexford@wwetb.ie

Enniscorthy.

Closing Date for receipt of completed applications is 4pm on

Wexford Arts Centre & Presentation Centre creative

Monday 24th May 2021.

classes & virtual exhibition

Ger Mackey,

From the 8th May – 29th May the Wexford Arts Centre and

District Manager,

Presentation Art Centre will facilitate free weekly creative

Enniscorthy Municipal District.

Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

Page 46 - 4th May 2021

Outside office hours call: 1890 666 777 Register on www.mapalerter.com for free text and email alerts about service disruptions in your locality

Planning app. lists available at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning

SlaNey SlaNeyadS ad

Comhairle Contae

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

Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

Wexford County Council Public Notice

Location & Dates Gorey 11th May Enniscorthy 12th May

Under Section 6 of the Wexford County Council Beach ByeLaws 2005 the Council seeks applications from interested parties for the licensed use of motorised vehicles providing ice cream and/or hot/cold non-alcoholic drinks for sale at the

Wexford 14th May Rosslare 17th May New Ross 18th May

following designated beach locations for the period 1st June

There will be 6 Workshops per day each lasting 40 minutes

2021 to 31st May 2022.

each. Participants can join via MS Teams on their PC or by

A.

Ballinesker Beach

phoning in.

B.

Culleton’s Gap Beach

Feedback is being sought on areas including Outdoor Spaces

Further particulars and application forms may be obtained

and Buildings, Transport, Housing, Social Participation, Civic

from the Environment Section, Wexford County Council,

Participation & Employment, Communication & Information,

County Hall Wexford, telephone 053 919 6316 or email

Health Services, Safety & Security.

environment@wexfordcoco.ie

To book please contact Ann Marie Laffan on

The closing date for receipt of completed applications

annmarie.laffan@wexfordcoco.ie or by phone on

with supporting documentation is 4pm Tuesday 18th May

053 919 6680.

2021 by email to the above address or by post to Environment, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford, Y35 WY93.

DON’T WALK AWAY.

Gerry Forde, Senior Engineer, Environment Section, Wexford County Council.

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

Wexford Age Friendly Strategy 2022 to 2026 – Have Your Say Wexford County Council want to hear the voices of people aged 55 and older in the county as we prepare a new Age Friendly Strategy for 2022 to 2026. Older people and groups working with or representing older people are invited to take part in online public consultations to help inform us on the areas which affect their lives. We would like to know what can be done to bring about positive changes for older people in the county over the next 5 years.

The public consultations are taking place by district as follows: Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

www.wexfordcoco.ie

Outside office hours call: 1890 666 777 Register on www.mapalerter.com for free text and email alerts about service disruptions in your locality

Planning app. lists available at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning

4th May 2021 - Page 47

SlaNey NewS

Money pouring into our piers and harbours Senator Malcolm Byrne has welcomed the announcement on 3rd May by Agriculture and the Marine Minister, Charlie McConalogue, of a government investment of €445,000 in harbours and piers across Co. Wexford. One quarter of the funding will be provided

by Wexford County Council.

The projects include public lighting at Fethard Pier, the construction of a safety barrier at Cahore Pier and improving the power supply at Wexford Quayfront as well as repair work in a number of locations. Details listed opposite.

Senator Byrne said, “For our coastal communities, ongoing investment in our harbours and piers is vital. Apart from repair work, this allocation of funding will also make many of the facilities safer and more useable by the general public.”

Fianna Fáil Councillor in the Rosslare LEA, Lisa McDonald, has also welcomed

the news, “I am delighted to be informed that €208,000 in capital funding will be spent on upgrade works and repairs in Kilmore Quay, a busy fishing community in the Rosslare Municipal District,” said Cllr. McDonald.

“I wish to thank my colleagues Minister James Browne, Senator Malcolm Byrne, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue and Wexford Co. Council officials for their efforts to secure this funding,” concluded Cllr. McDonald. n

Just ask... to access cancer trials Eibhlin Mulroe, CEO of Cancer Trials Ireland, has been in touch seeking to pass on the following information...

cancer and it is estimated that one in two people will develop cancer at some stage during their lifetime.

“I would be grateful for the opportunity to inform readers of the Slaney News, particularly those who may have had a cancer diagnosis and who are interested in clinical trials, that Cancer Trials Ireland is hosting a Cancer Retreat on Friday, May 21.

The virtual event, which coincides with International Clinical Trials Day, is aimed at the cancer research community.

However, conscious of the need to build awareness of clinical trials and to shed some light on how they work, we are opening up our first session to patients, advocates and members of the public.

Cancer Trials Ireland is the national

Page 48 - 4th May 2021

organisation responsible for overseeing cancer trials in Ireland. This initiative is part of our “Just Ask” campaign where we encourage people receiving cancer treatment to ask their oncologist or doctor if there is a cancer trial suitable for them.

Each year in Ireland, approximately 45,000 people are diagnosed with

Clinical trials offer new ways to prevent, find and treat cancer. They provide participants with access to treatments or procedures not available to other patients – treatments that are potentially better than those currently available, or treatments where there are no other options available. Cancer trials may provide benefit not only to those involved, but also help pave the way for others to access potentially life-saving therapies.”

People can view the Cancer Retreat programme and register their attendance free of charge at www.cancertrials.ie

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe

The Annual General Meeting of Enniscorthy & District Chamber will take place remotely on Tuesday 25th May at 8.00pm Further information available from info@enniscorthychamber.ie

Central Bank should be given statutory responsibility for promoting competition across financial services market – Senator Malcolm Byrne Senator Malcolm Byrne has called for the Central Bank to have a statutory role pursuing competition in the Irish financial services market. He raised the issue in the Seanad where he also insisted that if a Forum on the Future of Banking is established, that consumer interests must be represented at the table.

Senator Byrne commented, “We need to give the Central Bank specific statutory responsibility for promoting competition across the financial services market. The

Central Bank does not at present have that power to try to ensure we have competition.

“Having seen the departure of KBC Bank from significant parts of the Irish market and following the planned closure of quite a number of retail bank branches, it is very clear we are lacking competition in the Irish market.”

The Senator highlighted that banking is changing so quickly because of technology and we need to look at how we might

adopt a digital euro as well as how we interact with cryptocurrencies. He pointed out how China is developing expertise in this area far quicker than Europe.

Senator Byrne said, “Banking and Finance is changing so quickly and much is driven by consumer behaviour. We should have teenagers and twentysomethings inputting into any Forum on Banking. They are far more in touch with where financial technologies are going than the pillar banks.” n

Congrats to Enniscorthy’s Karl Cullen...

4th May 2021 - Page 49

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe

Keeping money in your pocket

The Government has reiterated its commitment to no increases in income tax or USC rates post pandemic, Fine Gael TD Paul Kehoe has said. “As we emerge from the pandemic and return to normality and economic growth, the last thing we need is higher taxes on income, business or savings for people in Wexford.

“There will be no increases in income tax or USC rates. We won’t see increases in tax on business, we won’t see increases in tax on people’s savings, and far from increasing income tax, we are going to index income tax bands.

“Fewer people now will end up in the higher income tax band – this is a solid a commitment in the Programme for Government from Fine Gael.”

Deputy Kehoe continued: “This commitment in the Programme for Government is as solid as any measures regarding environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions.

“This Government and its predecessor have shown solidarity since the start of the pandemic through the Pandemic Unemployment Payment and the Wage Subsidy Scheme, and many other measures.

“The last thing we need now, when it comes to an economic recovery, is higher taxes on anyone.” n

Local Vouchers provide €0.5m boost The County Wexford Shop Local Vouchers have proven to be a huge success in 2020 and continue to be in 2021 according to County Wexford Chamber Operations Manager Emma Dunphy. The new County Wexford Shop Local Vouchers were launched in October 2020 and can be spent in any of the participating outlets in Gorey, New Ross and Wexford.

The community of County Wexford quickly got behind the shop local initiative. Sales figures in 2020 increased to an amazing €482,000 proving that the people of County Wexford are supporting local at a time when businesses need it the most.

Every euro that is spent locally has a multiplier effect in the local community which benefits businesses, jobs, and the local economy.

County Wexford Chamber would like to thank everyone who has participated in the shop local initiative and purchased Shop Local Vouchers. From individual customers to businesses of all sizes, your participation is very much appreciated.

Keeping money in the local economy is vital all year round, so Shop Local Vouchers are available to purchase at any time in denominations of €10, €25 and €50 and make an ideal gift for any occasion. When you purchase a shop local voucher, you are not just gifting one person, you are gifting and supporting businesses and jobs in your area.

Nicky Furlong, Manager, O’Brien’s Fuel Yard in New Ross, shared his experience with the Shop Local Vouchers, “Overall it is a great idea to have, as they keep spending in the town which benefits local businesses. It is great to see more businesses signing up as it encourages more people to use the

Page 50 - 4th May 2021

vouchers. The vouchers allow employers to give bonuses to employees tax free, and it incentivises people who may work in New Ross but not live here to spend their money here in the town.”

Businesses which are accepting vouchers are encouraged to display their window stickers in their premises and to promote the shop local badge on their website and social media channels.

If any businesses wish to sign up to accept County Wexford Shop Local Vouchers, please contact County Wexford Chamber on 053 9122226 or email admin@countywexfordchamber.ie The list of over 240 businesses accepting Shop Local Vouchers can be viewed on the County Wexford Chamber website. n

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe

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

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

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

•

•

•

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

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

•

screens/windbreaks, plant stands and wooden platforms.

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

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

www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/

Liz Hore, Head of Enterprise, Wexford Local Enterprise Office

4th May 2021 - Page 51

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe

The commercial life of Ennisco Pub on the market

Carphone Warehouse in Enniscorthy

Carphone Warehouse closes its Irish shops Carphone Warehouse is closing more than 80 stores in the Republic, including those in Enniscorthy, Wexford and Gorey. The company had 69 standalone and 12 stores within stores. The company’s website has also been shut down. And almost 500 people are losing their jobs nationwide.

In a statement, parent company Dixons Carphone blamed the decision on changes in how people are shopping. Footfall in the stores has fallen more than 40 per cent in the past year, the company said, and customers are increasingly buying sim-free handsets.

“As part of the company’s broader transformation to one joined up and profitable business, it has made the difficult but necessary decision to close Carphone Warehouse in Ireland, in line with its decision to close all standalone Carphone Warehouse stores in the UK in 2020,” the statement said. n

Page 52 - 4th May 2021

Kehoe's residential licensed premises on Templeshannon Quay, Enniscorthy, is now on the market quoting €275,000.

It has an overall floor area of 2691 sq. ft. including a substantial extension to the rear and attractive living accommodation overhead. Full details here. n

A fond farewell Long-established and trusted travel agents and tour operators, Mackin Travel in Enniscorthy and Wexford, will be closing on the 30th of June as proprietors Frank and Una Mackin have decided to retire.

Frank (pictured) says, “We would like to thank all our customers for their loyalty and support over the years. We would particularly like to thank our staff for their hard work, loyalty, and dedication.

We would also like to thank all of our suppliers for their support over the years and particularly over the last 12 months.

“We will be contacting our existing customers in due course and continue to work on their bookings. For any queries or concerns you may have please email una@mackintravel.com or phone 053-9234346 or 053-9122121.” n

SlaNey buSiNeSS & fiNaNCe

orthy – the comings and goings

Creane & Creane – new owners UK-headquartered PIB Group Ltd has acquired Enniscorthy-based insurance broker Creane & Creane Ltd – the intermediary group’s first retail broking swoop in Ireland.

Formed by the late William Creane in 1945, the 30-strong family-run business is among Ireland’s longest established brokerages. It provides commercial and personal lines cover to retail and business customers, and is led by managing director Tony Doyle.

Under the deal, financial terms of which were not disclosed, Creane & Creane will retain not only its current roster and leadership but also the company’s branding.

Commenting on the development, Doyle stated: “Becoming part of a larger group was a big decision, and I’m very pleased to have found a new home through PIB who share the same values.

Through PIB we will be able to pass further benefits on to our customers as well as our people.”

It was noted, meanwhile, that the newest addition to the group is one of the biggest clients of wholesale business Citynet Insurance Brokers, which has been under the PIB Group umbrella since 2017.

“I’m so pleased to extend the PIB arm around our new colleagues at Creane & Creane,” said PIB Group chief executive Brendan McManus. “This is a fantastic

business with an amazing history, brilliant people, and strong client base.

“It didn’t take us long to recognise the strength and brand presence that they have built over many decades, which made them an obvious choice for our first retail brokerage business in the Irish market.”

Prior to its foray into retail broking in Ireland, PIB Group was only trading in the country through wholesale brokers Citynet and Optis Insurance.

McManus added: “We’re delighted that

Tony and the team at Creane & Creane felt comfortable coming into PIB Group, which we see as a real endorsement of our family mentality and the value of relationships that we’ve got.

“We want to focus on Ireland becoming a key territory for PIB, with ambitions to grow both our retail and wholesale footprint through further acquisitions.”

A spokesperon for local management told the Slaney News that there will be “absolutely no impact on staff. It's business as usual.” n

4th May 2021 - Page 53

SlaNey petS

MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy.

T: (053) 9233187, 9236674.

F: (053) 9236674.

E: moynevet@gmail.com

VET DIARY FOR MAY with the Moyne Veterinary Hospital This month Joe Kavanagh tells us all about the wonderful Dexter...

Albert Einstein didn't have any change one day and so instead of tipping the bell boy at the hotel in Tokyo, he asked the boy for a napkin and wrote the following quote, saying this would be of much more value than any money he could give.

he did arrive he came with the same no-nonsense approach of getting the job done so he could get back to his routine. We obliged as best we could.

'A quite and modest life will bring more joy than the constant pursuit of success, bound with constant unrest.'

As the years rolled on we did start seeing more of him as a persistent cough slowly began to wear him down. The mileage was on the clock but he still had his youthful verve and swagger about him.

About 8 years ago a little dog called Dexter was presented to me with hind limb paresis i.e. he'd lost the use in his back legs and had been brought to me for a second opinion, which is not unusual in these difficult cases.

The visits began to be more frequent because his general health was slipping but time and again he'd bounce back, get going and get another reprieve.

They had travelled from the north of the county and had been to their local vets but he wasn't responding. We used the complementary therapies alongside the conventional meds and slowly but surely Dexter started making progress and eventually got back going on his hind legs and back to his old fun ways.

He was such a character, this cheerful genial ‘n’ jovial gent just like his owners. They were three of a kind. It was always a pleasure to see them coming in the door.

The thing about Dexter was that he really knew his own mind, went his own road and everyone around just seemed to know him. He wasn't a big dog but carried plenty of stature.

Sometimes Dexter's owners would be out walking him on the road and what seemed like blank strangers would come up and say hello to Dexter, addressing him by his name and his owners were scratching their heads... how do they know Dexter??

He was one of those dogs that would pull his owner in through our front door, he just loved coming for his regular treatments! He had responded so well that we didn't need to see him as often but when

That dreaded day comes when his health has deteriorated so much that you know the kindest thing is to put him to sleep. That day was today.

Dexter for the first time ever didn't react to the clippers as we had to shave his leg to give him the injection. He was ready to go and like all those other visits was aware of what was happening and in his own very dignified way slipped peacefully into a deeper and deeper sleep.

You feel for the owners at a time like this as it’s such a void in their every day now. We also will miss those visits because we had such a rapport with both him and his owners... We just got each other without having to explain too much.

It’s the inevitable when you've been working with an older dog for so long that one day you've to say goodbye. Dexter had a moustache like Einstein, lived a quiet and modest life and brought more joy to all those that knew him... A life well lived.

To finish up the story of the note Albert Einstein gave the bell boy back at the Royal Imperial Hotel in Tokyo in 1922, that note was sold in Jerusalem last year by that bell boy's grandson for 1.5 million dollars!

Be that as it may, what Dexter and all our pets bring us is priceless. n

If you have a topic you’d like Joe Kavanagh to address please email Slaney News at: slaneynews@gmail.com OPENING HOURS (6 DAYS A WEEK): 9.00am–1.00pm and 2.00pm–6.00pm Small animal clinic (please tel. for appointment): Daily 9.30–10.30am, 2.30–3.30pm, 5.00–6.00pm.

24-hour, on-call, Emergency Service: (053) 9233187.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: Full blood analysis (haematology, biochemistry) Gas anaesthetic – Digital X-rays – Ultrasound – Bioenergy Dermatological testing – Kinesiology – Prescription diets Herbal remedies – Homeopathy – Allergy testing

Page 54 - 4th May 2021

SlaNey petS

CANINE CAPERS Below left: Walking his dog in Courtown Harbour was Tony Mannery and ‘Coby’.

Below centre: on Wexford’s Quay were Michelle French, Lexi French Walsh, Emma French and dog ‘Jolie’.

Below right: on their daily walk in Courtown Harbour were Stephanie Horan and ‘Rocky’.

Above left: Wexford County Council Fethard Playground is a welcome sight for kids and pets, Pauline Mackey and dog ‘Phobe’.

Above centre: Enjoying a weekend walk on Wexford Quays, Luke Hurley and his dog ‘Misty’.

Above right: What more could you ask for – a fine day and your dog for company at Courtown Harbour, Brian Shanley and his dog ‘Millins’.

Right: Enjoyoing a cuddle on Wexford’s Quay, Conor Walker and his dog ‘Reilly’.

4th May 2021 - Page 55

SlaNey NewS

CO. WEXFORD AWAKENS...

kia ora Mini Farm is now open again at Courteencurragh, Gorey.

Enjoying their visit were Bill Cunningham and Ellen o’Shaughnessy.

At kia ora Mini Farm on 26th April were Judit and Martinez El Baurhajri and Billy the Goat.

The new Btwenty7 coffee shop opening within the next few days in Bunclody.

Above: At the Parakeet section in kia ora Mini Farm were Harper and Amy Travers. Below: At Wells House and Gardens, Zach Hughes.

Page 56 - 4th May 2021

on Wexford Quay, music by ‘A Travelling Company’, L-R: Al Power, Paulina Skierinis and Niall Dowling.

SlaNey NewS

Thumbs up for Secret Valley

At the reopening of Secret Valley Wildlife Park, Coolnacon, Clonroche, on 26th April. Left: Cathal Flynn. Above: John Doherty shows a goat to patrons Wendy and Cillian Keegan. Bottom left: Theresa Peare, Fray and Robert Roman. Bottom right: Fiabh Hodge, Aoife McGahan, Lisa Ryan and Jack Ryan Malone.

At Secret Valley Wildlife Park Coolnacon, Clonroche, Adam Evans feeds the goats.

4th May 2021 - Page 57

SlaNey motoriNg

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

Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at

www.changinglanes.ie

Mazda MX-30 Mazda is a brand that likes to do things differently. Now they bring their unique perspective to the world of electric cars.

Mazda’s first all-electric car has just gone on sale in Ireland. The new Mazda MX-30 joins Mazda’s already talented range of hatchbacks, saloons, and SUVs, flying the flag for electric power at a time when EVs have firmly moved from the fringes to the mainstream.

Pricing starts from €30,965 for the Mazda MX-30 rising to €35,565 for a top of the range model. Power comes from a 35.5 kWh battery, with a WLTP range of 200 km. More on that later.

The Mazda MX-30 is quirky, no doubt about it. Mazda has had some fun with the design of this one. It is more of a crossover than an SUV, with an extraordinary cool urban coupé-like appearance and equally dramatic and divisive

‘freestyle’ doors. Plastic cladding around the lower bumpers and wheel arches are mandatory for any modern urban crossover, and the elevated ride height and driving position give the MX-30 some cache in the market too.

Inside there is an intriguing mix of convention and next generation Mazda interior.

Switchgear is largely familiar Mazda territory.

It’s good quality and easy to navigate. But the Mazda MX-30 deviates substantially with a new touchscreen operation for ventilation controls, which actually works okay, and some very interesting, tactile cabin materials. The MX-30 interior is true designer with real cork in the centre console, and lashings of soft touch materials that would not look out of place in a cool living room.

But all this design rigour has some trade-off.

The freestyle doors are beautiful and quirky but are just not as practical for getting in and

out of or accessing what’s in the rear seats. That will only really matter if this part of your vehicle is in regular use. Once you are seated back there you will realise that this crossover is on the small side also considering the price point. The boot has a capacity of 366 litres so it seems realistic for a car of this size.

In Ireland the new Mazda MX-30 will be available in four trim levels and stanard specification is good. Features include radar cruise control, windscreen projected head-up-display, front and rear parking sensors, LED headlights and a rear camera. The MX-30 is also the first in the Mazda range to benefit from the latest MyMazda app. Features include the ability to control charging using a timer, monitor charging progress, and a range indicator. The MyMazda app also gives MX-30 drivers real-time information on charging point availability and location, allows them to view key information such as

Mazda MX-30

Page 58 - 4th May 2021

SlaNey motoriNg plug types and opening hours, and send the destination directly to the navigation system.

minutes. It can be charged to full in as little as 5 hours at home.

Mazda is defying convention by using a lower capacity battery than many rivals to power the Mazda MX-30.

The MX-30’s 35.5 kWh battery has a 200 km range measured by WLTP. But in real world driving 150 km is more realistic.

Naturally this means the Mazda MX30 is not in the range race. In fact it does limit the car’s appeal as it doesn’t give the same amount of ‘freedom’ as some electric vehicles in the same ball park. There is rationale to it of course. Mazda is on a ‘right-sized’ battery approach to building electric vehicles. That means that they haven’t stuffed the MX-30 with a high capacity battery in a race to win range. Mazda cites this as more efficient electric motoring, avoiding the weight of a larger battery and reducing energy spend over the entire life cycle of the vehicle ‘from well to wheel’. This strategy also keeps overall vehicle weight lower for better handling and agility, which is currently not the case for many EVs. With 145 PS and maximum torque output of 271 Nm, the front-wheel drive MX-30 will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 9.7 seconds.

Interior

But it’s not one you feel like flooring the throttle in.

True this is a good electric vehicle to drive.

Unique for the segment, the Japanese brand created the motor pedal, which gives a more natural feel behind the wheel. There is some lean in fast cornering but the Mazda MX-30 is largely fun and interesting to drive. A true statement car with some very sophisticated engineering.

The car is aimed at two-car households or those who live in cities or towns. But having the ability to charge at home will be essential for ownership of this car. Fast charging is available through a CCS charging adapter at 50 kW, giving 80% battery power in 36

AUTO REPAIR ENNISCORTHY

NCT Preparation – Repairs – Timing Belts Clutches – General Servicing – Etc No job too big or too small NCRS, Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy (opposite Cooney Furlong / Gala) Tel: 086-8299431 – 053 9233033 – Email: ncrallying@yahoo.ie

The Mazda MX-30 is a really interesting electric vehicle that makes a statement and stands out for its design and quality. Make no mistake, this car has been exceptionally well built and engineered. The cabin is comfortable and uniquely different with real attention to detail. We think it’s fair to say there are some compromises to practicality but the Mazda MX-30 is a more niche buy for buyers who value a more premium feeling electric vehicle.

The MX-30 is good to drive but battery range is not the car’s most impressive feature. It depends on what way you look at it but the MX-30’s range is certainly compromised for longer journeys and charging at home will be essential for comfortable ownership.

Model tested: Mazda MX-30 First Edition Price: €31,795 Battery: 35.5 kWh Range (WLTP): 200 km Power: 145 PS (107 kW) Torque: 271 Nm Top speed: 140 km/h Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 9.7 seconds CO2 emissions: 0 g/km Motor Tax: €120 per year n

L&M STARTER & ALTERNATOR REPAIR SERVICE CARS, VANS, 4X4, TRUCKS, TRACTORS, MARINE, QUADS, LAWNMOWERS AND GENERATORS. WE REPAIR ALL UNITS. ALL APPLICATIONS CATERED FOR.

Island Road, Enniscorthy. T: (053) 9235933.

This space can be yours for just €25+VAT Tel: 087-2403310 4th May 2021 - Page 59

SlaNey NewS

Age-friendly Library service Wexford Public Libraries provide tutoring sessions over the phone for older people.

Through these tutoring sessions, participants will be empowered to access the fantastic range of online library services, particularly BorrowBox which is used to download books and audio books to a phone, tablet or laptop/computer. This will help empower older people to further avail of the fantastic range of library services available online.

It will help familiarise participants to access the internet and assist them when downloading apps to help participate in the other online activities.

In time, this may even give older people the confidence to become mentors themselves and show their peers how to do the same.

Why not give it a try!

If you would like to find out more about this programme, contact Joanne McElroy Joanne.McElroy@wexfordcoco.ie, or Mark McGillick at Mark.McGillick@wexfordcoco.ie or call 053 919 6760 for further details. n

Page 60 - 4th May 2021

Follow Wexford Public Libraries on Facebook Follow Wexford Public Libraries on Instagram @wexfordlibraries Follow Wexford Public Libraries on Twitter @wexlibraries Look for videos on YouTube "Wexford Public Libraries"

SlaNey NewS

Diocesan Pilgrimage goes virtual will occur,” he continues, “and pilgrims and fellow devotees of Lourdes, are invited to participate online.”

The programme for this online pilgrimage encounter is as follows: The Masses and ceremonies will be online only and will come from St. Aidan’s Cathedral, Enniscorthy.

Join in at www.churchservices.tv/enniscorthycath edral.

Lourdes: a place of grace, peace and resilience.

Pilgrimage Director, Fr. Brian Broaders

Pandemic restrictions mean that the annual Ferns Diocescan Pilgrimage to Lourdes is not possible for the second year running so below is the timetable for the 2021 ‘virtual’ Ferns Diocesan Pilgrimage which will take place from 9th to 13th May 2021.

“The pilgrimage takes a very different format this year,” says Bishop’s Secretary in Ferns Fr. John Carroll, “but it will go ahead, albeit in a reduced, virtual and domestic manner.

“A programme online – devised by Pilgrimage Director Fr. Brian Broaders –

Sunday 9th May @ 10am: Bishop Brennan will celebrate Mass launching the virtual pilgrimage and light the Lourdes Candle.

7pm: Fr Jim Doyle will guide participants through a time of gentle prayer and adoration, recalling quiet times at the grotto.

Monday 10th May @ 10am: Fr Odhrán Furlong will celebrate Mass and short reflection.

Bishop’s Secretary in Ferns, Fr. John Carroll

7pm: Fr Billy Swan will pray participants around the Stations of the Cross.

Wednesday 12th May @ 10am: Msgr Joe McGrath will celebrate Mass and share a short reflection.

7pm: Fr Billy Caulfield will lead the evening prayer on God’s healing grace.

7pm: Fr Matt Boggan guides participants through the mysteries of the Rosary.

Thursday 13th May @ 10am: Fr Brian Broaders celebrates Mass and shares a short reflection.

Tuesday 11th May @ 10am: Fr Ricky O’Connor will celebrate Mass and share a short reflection.

7pm: Fr Aodhán Marken will bring the Virtual Pilgrimage to a close with a ceremony of Light. n

“Wexford Together” on South East Radio One can tune in to South East Radio

safe, stay active and stay well at this

every Thursday night at 8pm for a

time, with contributions from many of

service throughout the show where

series of one-hour shows designed to

the organisations engaged in this work

people can phone in and engage, chat,

lift the spirits at what is a very difficult

at this time.

take part in competitions, play a

time for many in Co. Wexford.

So if you know of anybody who

SE Radio will operate a phone-in

request, and provide ideas and sugges-

Described by some as a cross

might enjoy the show and benefit from

between the Alan Corcoran and Tony

an hour’s light entertainment, get them

Kehoe shows, the “Wexford Together”

to tune in every Thursday night at 8pm

from the Community Call helpline

show is reaching out to engage with

for the next couple of months or so and

during the show, with these calls being

and entertain all members of the

enjoy all that “Wexford Together” has to

immediately passed to the Wexford

community, particularly those who may

offer.

Community Call Helpline (053-

be experiencing loneliness, isolation or simply boredom!

In between music, chat, competitions

Those without easy access to facilities such as smartphones, online entertainment and information can be

tions for inclusion in further shows.

Listeners can also seek assistance

9196000, 8am-8pm, 7 days) for attention.

So spread the word and tune in

etc., the show will highlight many of the

reached through the show’s format and

Thursday nights and enjoy some

excellent initiatives that have been

content, and can enjoy some light enter-

entertainment and an hour’s break

organised and are taking place across

tainment also during these really chal-

from everything that’s going on

County Wexford to help people stay

lenging times.

around us. n

4th May 2021 - Page 61

SlaNey leiSure

A Glorious

A fashion series

This month I have the pleasure of showcasing some of the wonderful summer fashion looks from one of Enniscorthy’s most popular fashion houses, Glamour Boutique at Main Street.

Glamour is one of the town’s longstanding fashion premises and has kept its doors open and us ladies glamorous, through both Celtic Tiger and Recession, and even in these dark days of Covid 19 is still managing to keep us trendy and cheerful with its magical mix of colours and labels and regular video fashion features like Magic Mondays, Wow Wednesdays

u o r u o m a l AG

and Fantastic Fridays.

Proprietor Mary Hudson is nothing if not glamorous, and her taste, flair, business acumen, and friendly demeanour have contributed greatly,

Naas and Galway to shop at Glamour

not just to all our individual wardrobe

and in these days of online buying

needs, but to the town’s economy over

Mary Hudson is putting Enniscorthy

the past thirty years. I have known

firmly on the national if not global

people to come from Bray, Portlaoise,

fashion map. I do believe I have seen someone from Wales on the Glamour facebook page recently, enquiring if deliveries extended across the water.

Ably assisted by the lovely Nadia Corrigan, Glamour’s fashion videos have quickly become essential viewing for fashionistas all over the town, the county and beyond, providing us with our regular fashion fix, which has been so important during lockdown, sometimes being the only social interaction a person in isolation may have for that day.

‘This summer is all about bright, bold,

Page 62 - 4th May 2021

SlaNey leiSure

Obsession

by Maria Nolan

Maria Nolan

It’s important that our clothes are versatile and can be worn either day or evening, staying in or going out or simply going to do the shopping or to walk the dog because we don’t know how long it will be before we can socialise indoors and in large gather-

! n o i s s e s b us O

ings.

We want easy to wear pants and joggers, vibrant tee-shirts, long comfortable cardigans, cool, casual, pretty dresses and multipurpose Happy Jackets in a variety of shades, and Glamour Boutique has them all in all sizes 8 to 18/20.

Summer 2021 is all about relaxed looks with pops of colour to reflect our emergence from the Coronavirus pandemic, we want to tread slowly and deliberately, comfortably moving

vivid colours and relaxed fashion,’

forward into what we all hope will be a

according to Mary Hudson, ‘Let’s face

better, brighter future.

it, we are coming out of the doldrums and we want something to lift our

– Words & Pics by Maria Nolan

spirits, the brilliant blues, the lush greens, the vivid oranges and the florescent pinks, with plenty of white and denim thrown in there to tone things down a little.’

‘Patterns, graphics, florals and animal prints incorporating multiple colours are all being worn with a multitude of jackets and pants. People want to get as much value as they can for their money so they are investing in pieces that can be worn in a variety of ways with a variety of colours, either dressed up or dressed down, and at affordable prices.’

4th May 2021 - Page 63

SlaNey leiSure

New Chairman for Visit Wexford Paul Finegan has been appointed as the new Visit Wexford Tourism Group Chairman. Paul has been the General Manager at The Ashdown Park Hotel in Gorey since 2013 and has worked in the hospitality industry for over 30 years, 20 of those in Wexford, and he will bring a wealth of knowledge of the tourism and hospitality industry to the role.

Colm has been a great ambassador for tourism in Co. Wexford over the years, leading the tourism sector to have a collective voice and securing funding for Visit Wexford. The Group can't thank Colm enough for all his hard work and effort to promote Wexford as a tourism destination during his time with Visit Wexford.

In 2020, Wexford was the county with the third highest number of people employed in the tourism sector and was the number 1 hotel bookings provider nationally.

According to Paul, “We have a wonderful county full of great attractions. The next few years will be difficult for the tourism industry but we have advantages in terms of our wealth of great people in the industry and our wonderful outdoor amenities.

The drive again this summer is to target domestic tourism and thankfully bookings are very strong for this summer particularly for families but the challenge will be to ensure County Wexford can extend the season.

“There will be new opportunities through Rosslare Europort in the coming years and food tourism is growing at a pace. Wexford’s Taste Wexford culinary training and development programme is one of the many promising initiatives being rolled out across County Wexford this year and into 2022.

that tourism will continue to grow and continue to be a major industry for County Wexford in the years to come.”

“I have no doubt that we will come through this enormous challenge and

Paul succeeds Colm Neville who has been the group's Chairman since 2016.

The new Visit Wexford Tourism Group Chairman Paul Finegan.

The Economic Department of Wexford County Council is increasing its financial allocation to Visit Wexford and the group has had two successful applications to Wexford Local Development through the Leader programme for marketing, training and promotion of food tourism. n

Library Update by Maria Nolan Our Wexford Library service is to be commended for the way it is meeting the challenges of Covid lockdown and during the month of May it plans to host three separate talks via Zoom in its Health & Wellbeing Series.

A new initiative called Tall Tales of Wexford is calling on all Co. Wexford children to create tall tales about the county.

The three lectures will be given by Dr. Padraic Gibson, Consultant Clinical Psychotherapist and Clinical Director of the OCD Clinic, Ireland, under the following headings: Mental Traps scheduled for Wednesday 5th May, Depression on Wednesday 12th May, and OCD on Wednesday 19th May, all commencing at 7pm.

Karen Tomkins

Never was it more important to look after our mental health and wellbeing in the aftermath of a global pandemic, so book now at libraryhq@wexfordcoco.ie

be available online on all Wexford County Council Public Library Service Facebook pages and Wexford Libraries YouTube channel to watch anytime.

From Thursday 6th May as part of the Parenting Today series, Bilingualism – How to get your child to speak your native language, and why it matters, will

Presented by Dr. Francesca La Morgia, lecturer, researcher, consultant and trainer in child language development and child bilingualism.

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Presented by Karen Tomkins, children’s writer, broadcaster and independent audio producer, children are being invited to share something interesting about themselves, their family or their local area. ‘Maybe your granny is the Ferns bingo champion, or maybe you’ve spotted a humpback whale off the Wexford coast or maybe your pet dog can work the washing machine, the more bizarre the better,’ she says.

The stories will be woven into audio stories that will be available on all Wexford Libraries Facebook pages and on Wexford Public Libraries YouTube channel.

The closing date for the first story is 5th May and submissions can be made to Karen at libraryhq@wexfordcoco.ie

SlaNey leiSure

Steven (Turret) Rocks!

Back after a lengthy silence, Enniscorthy’s Steven O'Brien has released Stop Laughing At Me as a single and video with Noel Quaid on bass/backing vocals, Brandon Murphy on guitars and Michael O'Connor on drums. Listen and watch here The single is from the new album Turret Rocks recorded at Brendan Carthy’s Orchard Recording Studio in Enniscorthy. The album is available now on all the major platforms.

Check out Steven’s Facebook page here Enniscorthy singer Steven O'Brien has just released his new album, Turret Rocks. He was recently interviewed by RTE.ie and we reproduce some of that interview as follows...

The follow-up to his 2011 debut Decency Week, O’Brien says the new album is, "A lockdown clear-out that unearthed several old tracks, some recorded as long as six years ago.

"A lot had changed in the meantime; there were lost loved ones, new additions to the family, and mental illness diagnoses, life being that thing that happens while you’re making other plans."

He adds, "It just didn’t sit well thinking the songs might never see the light of day. Spite can be a great motivator."

Having previously won comparisons to Jonathan Richman, XTC, and Wreckless Eric, O’Brien says his new songs take the listener on "an acerbic jaunt through what historians will look back on as the lost decade between the financial crash and the global pandemic".

“In 2017 I was diagnosed with OCD. I still can’t stop thinking about it. I think of all those meltdowns I had if I didn’t get to eat my breakfast with my lucky spoon. It all makes sense now. I was very lucky to do CBT when it was starting up in Wexford.

There wasn’t a waiting list. There’s a lot of great people working in the mental health service.”

How would you describe your music? “Top, top music. With a good moral compass, the courage of its convictions and a low centre of gravity.”

Who are your musical inspirations? “The Beatles and my Da. My earliest memories were listening to The Beatles – the albums being around the house, the artwork, the funny lyrics, the bits of talking between songs, it blew my mind. My Da had a double cassette player. With two mic inputs. He had these two tiny black microphones. He would record himself singing Golden Slumbers and all. Double track his voice. He did magical stuff with that cassette player. He had jet black hair and a big beard like Macca on the Let it Be cover. I thought he was a Beatle for a while.” n

EOIN DEVEREUX – GOING HIS OWN WAY Eoin Devereux is an 18-year-old from Enniscorthy who for the past year has been isolating but using the time constructively for writing, recording and producing tracks.

Since leaving school to pursue his passion of music, he has faced much uncertainty and adversity but has overcome those to release his first single called Going My Own Way – you can watch the youtube lyric video here : https://youtu.be/ggCL8IKt1Zs

4th May 2021 - Page 65

SlaNey leiSure

Imelda May – on her way!

Globally revered artist Imelda May recently announced her Made To Love tour – her first tour in over five years, in support of her highly anticipated new album 11 Past The Hour – her first new music in four years.

The album brims with sensuality, emotional intelligence, spirituality and intuition, marking a new chapter for Imelda and showcasing her at her most authentic. With pals and collaborators like Ronnie Wood, Noel Gallagher, Miles Kane and Niall McNamee, and with inspired contributions from feminist thinkers and activists such as Gina Martin and Dr Shola Mos-Shogbamimu, the album is an invigorating blast of rock’n’roll, with a purpose.

Imelda says: “I cannot wait to see you all again, to dance and sing together, to connect and feel the sparkle in a room where music makes us feel alive and elevated for a while. A magical feeling we can only get from live music. Let’s go!!!!”

The Daily Mail’s recent 4-star album review proclaimed, “The whole album is crying out to be performed live. She could get a party started in a convent.”

Imelda May’s tour will see her perform songs from her new album and the most celebrated tracks from her incredible repertoire, showcasing Imelda’s unique ability to evoke the purest of emotion using her voice as her sole instrument.

Born and raised in The Liberties area of Dublin, Imelda has become one of Ireland’s most famed female artists in history. Discovered by Jools Holland,

who asked Imelda to go on tour with him, Imelda has gone on to perform duets with artists including U2, Lou Reed, Sinead O’Connor, Robert Plant, Van Morrison, Jack Savoretti and Elvis Costello and has featured on recent albums and live tours with Jeff Beck, Jeff Goldblum and Ronnie Wood.

Her last album landed at No.5 in the UK Official Album Chart and she can count such artists as Bob Dylan and Bono amongst her fans.

Last year, her 2008 album Love Tattoo was named the bestselling album of

modern chart history by a homegrown female Irish artist by the Official Charts Company.

Last summer, Imelda released her debut poetry EP ‘Slip of the Tongue’ to widespread critical acclaim and global recognition. Her poem You Don’t Get To Be Racist and Irish was used by the Irish government’s ReThink Ireland campaign for billboards across the country.

Lantern Presents will host Imelda May at Wexford’s Opera House on May 11th 2022. Tickets €44. Book here.

Brian Byrne is back with a bang Having recently been granted planning permission for a new concert venue encompassing the old Wesleyan Chapel on Rowe Street, Brian Byrne of Lantern Presents has lined up Ash to appear at the new 200 fully seated or 400 standing, venue.

Ash, who are celebrating 25 years, will appear at the newly-named Chapel Rowe venue on Monday 13th December, 2021. Tickets: €25 plus €1.50 booking

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fee, on sale now from Lantern Presents here.

Lantern is also promoting another Wexford show at the Crown Live. Owen

Colgan will appear there with a brand new show Still Alive on 6 Oct 2021, tickets €22.90 plus booking fee €1.50.

Owen Colgan, the Irish cult comedy hero, is best known for his role as Buzz McDonnell in Hardy Bucks.

Tickets purchased to Owen’s May 2020 show are valid for this event.

Full details on all Lantern shows at: https://lantern.ie/events/list/ n

SlaNey leiSure Music Network Cello Quartet Digital Tour – Online Event Friday, May 14th, 8.30pm, €10.

tion is well catered for in Ailbhe McDonagh’s own Cellango and in An Autumn Night’s Dream, a new Music Network commission by Conor Linehan.

In collaboration with Music Network, the Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely, will broadcast a concert by the Music Network Cello Quartet online on Friday, May 14th at 8.30pm. The performance forms part of their online event programme over the summer months. Tickets can be purchased online only at courthousearts.ie and remain valid for 36 hours after the broadcast time.

Along with this beautiful programme of music, viewers will hear from the musicians in interviews hosted by Music Network's CEO Sharon Rollston, and composer Conor Linehan will introduce his new work in a short Composer Insight Session during the broadcast.

With its sonorous tone, swan-like elegance and an expressive range that gives the human voice a run for its money, no other instrument manages to play on our heart strings quite like the cello. Performing together for the very first time and guided by their collective musical influences, William Butt, Rosalie Curlett, Martin Johnson and Ailbhe McDonagh have crafted an inspirational and varied programme which celebrates the beauty of their instrument.

Claude Debussy Arr. David Johnstone Clair de lune W.A. Mozart Arr. David Johnstone Ave verum corpus KV 618 J.S. Bach Arr. Claudio Jaffe and Johanne Perron Chaconne from Partita No. 2 in D minor (BWV 1004) Beethoven Arr. Ailbhe McDonagh Adagio cantabile (2nd movement) from Sonata No. 8, Op. 13 “Pathétique” Conor Linehan An Autumn Night's Dream New Music Network Commission Ailbhe McDonagh Cellango Barrière Sonata for two cellos No. 10 in G major Gershwin Arr. Lee Armstrong “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess Bartók Arr. Lee Armstrong Romanian Folk Dances (Sz68) n

Audiences can look forward to marvellous arrangements of works by Bach, Beethoven and Bartók, Mozart's beautiful Ave verum corpus, a fiery exchange between two cellos in Barrière’s popular Sonata, as well as Debussy’s uber-romantic Clair de lune and Gershwin’s jazz-infused favourite ‘Summertime’. Contemporary music for this unusual combina-

Programme:

Music Network Cello Quartet online broadcast on Friday 14 May, 8.30pm, as part of the Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely, online programme for summer 2021.

Wexford teenager releases debut single

Kayleigh Berry, a Wexford town teenager, has just released her debut single called Stupid Cafe which has received airpay on RTE 2XM thanks to host Dermot Lambert.

The song was recorded in her brother Andrew’s own Whiterock Studios. Kayleigh is a student at Presentation Secondary Schoool and Andrew is a graduate of Dublin’s BIMM Institute where he studied songwriting. He also reached the final stages of The Voice of Ireland last year.

Stupid Cafe is available now on all major platforms. n

4th May 2021 - Page 67

Plus All-Ireland fixtures ???

SlaNey Sport

FESTY’S DERBY DEBUT

Sports resuming – the national picture Outdoor sports training for adults on a non-contact basis, in pods of 15, will be allowed resume from May 10, with outdoor sports matches following on June 7.

June 7 is also the date for the resumption of matches for non-elite players. But no crowds will be permitted to attend games though pilot events with crowds will follow.

It remains to be seen if contact training will be permitted at some date between May 10 and June 7.

Congratulations to Enniscorthy’s Festy Ebosele on making his league debut for Derby County last month, on 10th April, in the Championship as Derby County were pushing for a late equaliser at home to league leaders Norwich City.

The former Moyne Rangers player came on as a substitute late in the game just two years after joining the club as a sixteen-year-old when it was managed by English legend Frank Lampard at the

time. Festy’s current manager is none other than English and Manchester United legend, Wayne Rooney, who obviously has great faith in the young, talented Enniscorthy man.

Cllr Aidan Browne, a stalwart of Moyne Rangers, said, “Well done Festy, delighted for you, and wishing you continued success. It’s a proud day for Enniscorthy town and for my club Moyne Rangers.” n

Sports resuming locally The Enniscorthy Sports Hub The Hub is scheduled to open today, Tuesday 4th May. Opening hours will be Monday to Friday 9am to 9pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm. For more information, phone Enniscorthy Municipal District on (053) 923 3540.

Moyne Rangers, Enniscorthy The club resumed training for all U-18 players on Monday 26th April.

The FAI’s Return to Training Protocols are

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being adhered to by managers, players and their families to ensure the continuing safety of all. New players are welcome.

Astro Active Centre, Enniscorthy Pitch hire is available weekdays and weekends, from 10th May, for recreational sports (max 15), sports teams, schools and family activities.

Get in touch for details and prices.

Booking online www.bookapitch.com/venues/391

Swimming pools and gyms will reopen on June 7, but only for individual training. Group classes will not yet be allowed.

Underage sports training resumed last week, and golf courses and tennis courts also reopened.

Minister of State for Sport, the Gaeltacht & Defence, Jack Chambers TD, says indoor sport “will be considered at the end of June". And he confirmed the government is working on proposals for pilot events to test the return of spectators to matches.

"On the return of spectators at matches and concerts, my department is working on proposals and guidelines for a number of pilot live events during the summer. It will be great to see fans back at games.”

"We will work with all in the sports system including governing bodies and clubs to support the return to sport and to maximise participation so we get as many people back playing sport as we reopen the country over the coming period," he concluded. n

SlaNey Sport

More waiting for Moore

Wexford’s Brian Moore is a 33-yearold professional MMA (mixed martial arts) fighter with an impressive record behind him. Nicknamed ‘The Pikeman’, the Wexford man’s record stands at 13-7-0 (Win-Loss-Draw) with victories in his last two fights, the most recent being in Oct 2020.

On 7th May he was due to take to the cage in Connecticut, USA, against Erik Perez on the Bellator 258 fight night at bantamweight 135 lbs (61.2 kg). Perez was born in Monterrey, Mexico, and fights out of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Hi Pro MMA Record is 19-8-0 (Win-Loss-Draw).

Unfortunately Moore texted positive for Covid in April so the fight had to be postponed and is now expected to happen in June.

Moore is feeling confident, saying, “Don't blink for this one.”

Follow him on Facebook here

4th May 2021 - Page 69

SlaNey Sport

A beauty to behold! Sports club The sod of Bellefield GAA never appeared greener than on Monday evening last 26th April as children of all ages raced on to the pitch after an absence of nearly eight months due to Coronavirus lockdown.

It was indeed a beauty to behold to see their delight and hear the happy voices as they called greetings to each other and to their mentors and coaches at Rapparees/ Starlights.

And it wasn’t just the children who were excited, the sweet, sweet sound of leather on ash has been sorely missed through a long and difficult lockdown winter and parents and selectors were visibly overjoyed to be back at the popular sporting venue.

All Covid guidelines were adhered to as children arrived on site fully kitted and ready for action with their own individual water bottles, all medical certificates complete and submitted and organised pods of fifteen training throughout the field.

Wexford hurlers play Clare @ 1pm in Cusack Park, on Sunday 23rd May they take on old rivals Kilkenny in Nowlan Park @ 2pm, on Saturday 5th June they play Antrim in Belfast in Corrigan Park @ 3pm and on Saturday 12th June they have Dublin at home in Chadwicks Park @ 3pm.

Training will continue each evening at Bellefield for all our underage players, male and female, and we look forward to the return of our adult grades over the coming weeks.

Our County Footballers kick off their League campaign on Saturday 22nd May @ 3pm in Chadwicks Wexford Park where they take on Waterford and on Saturday 29th May they play Carlow in Dr. Cullen Park @ 5pm.

Intercounty activity returns, beginning with the National League, where our hurlers have their first game at home against Laois on Sunday next 9th May at 1.45pm at Chadwicks Wexford Park, Sunday 16th May

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our county teams the very best of luck in the 2021 League and Championship.

Hillbrook Lawn Tennis Club, Enniscorthy, is delighted to have reopened on 26th April.

The club asks that all members familiarise themselves with the protocols detailed by Tennis Ireland.

Membership Fees: Family: €350. Single: €220 Student: €60 (proof of being in full-time education must be provided). Junior < 18yrs: €25 For further information email hillbrooktennisclub@gmail.com

Page 70 - 4th May 2021

Go n-éirí an t-ádh libh go léir.

SlaNey Sport

bs reopen.

Bellefield GAA, Rapparees/Starlights continue to run their weekly Lotto fundraiser every Monday evening at 8.30pm and would like to thank all who continue to support us, supporting you, by purchasing lotto tickets each week either online at rappstars.com or at McSorley’s, Ronie Furlong’s, Gala, Daybreak and The Bus Stop Shop.

The month of May is Wexford Wellness Month so do watch the Official Wexford GAA Facebook page and website for details of health and well-being events beginning with the Model Army 96km Charity Challenge commencing on Saturday 1st May. For all club related events, fixtures and results follow us on our Facebook page and our official club website.

All hurling pics by Maria Nolan.

– Maria Nolan PRO, Rapparees/Starlights

Enniscorthy Golf Club Captains, Meta and Pat, welcoming all members back on 26th April to the magnificent course after months of Lockdown.

4th May 2021 - Page 71

SlaNey hiStory & heritage

Podcast: ‘Wexford in the Revolutionary Decade’

Wexford County Council is delighted to announce that it has commissioned History Ireland Hedge School to produce a podcast which discusses historical events in Wexford from 1916 to 1923. The podcast has been made available on the Wexford Library Facebook Page and YouTube Channel from Friday, April 23rd.

WEXFORD DURING 1916-1923 While not in the vanguard of armed activity during the War of Independence, Wexford has the distinction of being one of the few counties outside Dublin that saw action during the 1916 Rising.

However, it was also one of the few

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places where John Redmond’s (a native of the county) Irish Parliamentary Party maintained a substantial level of support throughout the revolutionary period. To interrogate these apparent contradictions, you can listen to History Ireland editor, Tommy Graham, in discussion with Bernard Browne, Ida Milne, William Murphy and Kevin Whelan.

of this important new podcast that explores events during the Decade of Commemorations in County Wexford.

Some of Wexford’s most eminent historians will be discussing events in the County and I would encourage people to engage with the podcast in the days and weeks ahead.”

Decade of Centenaries 2021:

The panelists are eminent historians and have all published books in relation to this period in history. Bernard, Ida and Kevin also originally hail from County Wexford.

The podcast is funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media under the Decade of Centenaries 2012-2023 initiative.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Ger Carthy says, “As Chairman of Wexford County Council, I am delighted to announce the launch

For further information, contact the Local Studies Librarian, Caroline Barry at 053 919 6330 or libraryhq@wexfordcoco.ie n

SlaNey hiStory & heritage

Shining a light on Goddard Henry Orpen Covid 19, with all its quarantine, isolation and loneliness, has allowed some people to do things that they have either always wanted to do or never had the time to do and Jeremy Hill of Monksgrange has been putting his Jeremy Hill of Monksgrange.

Pic: Maria Nolan.

lockdown time to excellent use working on and updating the intriguing Monksgrange archives.

In his quarterly bulletin newsletter distributed in April, Jeremy tells us that this quarter’s work has centred mainly around the objective of putting names, dates and locations to over 1,200 negatives from Goddard Orpen’s photography collection.

A seal embossed certificate will be issued

With no key of any kind to the collection, locations in Ireland, England, Wales, France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy and Greece, and a diversity of subjects relating to family, antiquarian, medieval buildings, ethnography, landscape, the classics and the arts, this is a mammoth task indeed.

locations has just been digitised and

with each print. Sold out editions are just that, no more prints will be authorised.

Most certainly collectors’ items.

An album of 48 images taken by Orpen in Greece in 1913 of classical buildings and depending on the success of the Paris booklet, Monksgrange Archives will consider the publication of Ancient

Greece in Orpen Eyes.

Sales of the booklet will greatly assist with the conservation and preservation of the historic Orpen Collection but more importantly it will shine a light on the wonderful talent and photographic skills of Goddard Henry Orpen.

What a heritage treasure, order your copy now from grangearchives@gmail.com – Maria Nolan

Goddard Orpen was an extremely good and technically skilled photographer, as Jeremy puts it, ‘He didn’t take snaps’.

A series of 110 images taken in Paris in 1899, appear to be of particular significance in the context of the history of photography. They stand, some predating, but most contemporaneously with the famous images of French photographer Eugène Atget.

To generate interest in this important work, Monksgrange Archives have produced a small booklet including thirty of the Paris images under the title Old Paris in Orpen Eyes, which can be purchased for €20, including postage, from grangearchives@gmail.com Also available for purchase are prints of the images in a choice of sizes in limited editions of 50 only in each size, individually hand printed on archival paper, with close attention paid to tone, texture and light.

Pelicans in Versailles feature in the album of photographs of Paris in 1899

by Goddard Henry Orpen.

4th May 2021 - Page 73

SlaNey artS

Online art exhibitions with Mar ia Nolan

Book Review: The Librarian of Auschwitz Having read, reviewed and enjoyed The Tattooist of Auschwitz last year I was looking forward to reading Antonio Iturbe’s The Librarian of Auschwitz and I wasn’t disappointed.

Yet another powerful novel based on the true story of an Auschwitz survivor, Dita Kraus.

Dita was a Czechoslovakian Jew, born in Prague in 1929.

After the German invasion of Czechoslovakia, Dita and her family were subjected to all the rigours, regulations and denigrations of the Nazi regime and in November 1942 were deported to the ‘model ghetto’ at Terezin.

The annual Lions Club Art Exhibition at Wexford Arts Centre is now available to view online – what stunning colour and creativity.

Check out all the wonderful art sent in this year at https://lionsclubshow.weebly.com/ For online exhibitions at Enniscorthy’s Presentation Centre see: https://www.presentationcentre.ie/currentexhibitions.html and make sure to check out the Keep Sketch! virtual sketching group’s work there also. n

Living Arts Project Living Arts Project – Arts in Education CALL FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Schools & Visual Artists, 2021-22 Deadline 4pm Thursday 6th May 2021

A year later they were transferred to Auschwitz, the most notorious of the Nazi Concentration Camps.

Wexford County Council Arts Department, in partnership with Wexford Arts Centre and the Arts Council, is seeking applications from primary schools and visual artists to participate in the Living Arts Project commencing in October 2021.

Whilst most prisoners were sent straight to the gas chambers on arrival at Auschwitz, Dita and her mother were deemed fit for work and managed to keep themselves alive on starvation rations.

The aim of the Living Arts Project is to provide children with an understanding and appreciation of contemporary visual art.

Selected primary schools have the opportunity to host an artist in residence during the school year.

Dita’s father died in the camp.

This is a most extraordinary story of a young girl who becomes the ‘keeper of the books’ in Block 31, the children’s block.

The children of Auschwitz are being taught in a secret school set up by Jewish leader Freddy Hirsch, using eight books that have been smuggled into the camp and through stories told by ‘living books’, people who tell stories from memory.

Dita, aged fourteen, looks after the physical books, putting herself in terrible and constant danger to keep them hidden and cared for and earning her the title – The Librarian.

When Dita comes to the attention of the dreaded Angel of Death, Dr. Josef Mengele, and his horrendous experiments, her survival becomes even more tenuous.

This is a story for everyone who loves books.

Books have power.

For those imprisoned in Auschwitz they represented freedom and hope.

After the Holocaust the written words bears witness to man’s inhumanity to man, forever.

Antonio Iturbe

A compelling tale, made all the more poignant because it is true.

– Maria Nolan

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Four Wexford-based artists will be selected and partnered with schools to create a body of work over the school year. The residencies prioritise the development of the artists’ practice within the project and encourage engaging work from the pupils. The project also offers teachers an opportunity to observe and learn creative practices for use in the classroom.

The residencies will culminate in an exhibition of work from participating schools at Wexford Arts Centre in March/April 2022. Pupils participating in the project have the benefit of detailed guidance from the artist over the period of the residency and the opportunity to see their work exhibited in a gallery for their friends, family to view.

Applications are invited from interested primary schools and visual artists for lead and assistant roles. Joint applications for artists seeking to fulfil lead and assistant roles are welcome.

Established in 2013, the Living Arts Project is a long-term visual arts educational scheme which consolidates the existing partnership between the Arts Department of Wexford County Council (WCC) and Wexford Arts Centre. It makes engagement with the fundamentals of contemporary visual art accessible for young audiences.

For further information on the Living Arts Project and how to apply please email catherine@wexfordartscentre.ie or log on to https://livingartsproject.ie/. Deadline for expressions of interest is 4pm Thursday 6th May 2021.

For further information on Wexford County Council’s full arts programme please visit www.wexfordcoco.ie/arts-and-culture or call 053 9196441 / email arts@wexfordcoco.ie n

SlaNey artS

Literary Update by Maria Nolan On the literary front this month I caught up with friend, colleague and Wexford children’s writer, the lovely and passionate Caroline Busher.

The Legend of Valentine Sorrow is set in 1832 and was inspired by the author of Dracula, Bram Stoker.

The novel begins in Sligo Town, as the cholera epidemic sweeps over Ireland; with it arrives a peculiar family of vampires.

Not only is this busy Irish Times bestselling author of The Ghosts of Magnificent Children and The Girl who ate the Stars, looking forward to the release of yet another novel, she also wants to lend her expertise and experience to others who wish to write.

Caroline, who has a First Class Honours MA in Creative Writing, has worked as the Reader in Residence with the Wexford Public Library Services for the past couple of years and also appears regularly on TV as a book reviewer, knows exactly what it takes to make a successful career as an author and she is now aspiring to help potential writers follow in her footsteps.

‘If the last couple of years have taught us anything,’ Caroline says, ‘it’s to value what matters most in life. We have all slowed down and connected to what makes us happy. Many of us have taken time to pursue interests that we have not had time to do before. So why stop now,’ Caroline asks.

They are looking for a new home and capture the hero of the novel, Valentine Sorrow.

Valentine goes on an extraordinary journey and a race against time which includes a haunted lighthouse, mermaids, and vampires.

The Legend of Valentine Sorrow sounds, without a doubt, Caroline Busher’s most gripping and magical novel yet.

Caroline Busher

‘Dream big and take that first step towards writing a best-selling novel today,’ she advises, ‘and I can help you do just that’.

‘My new book’, Caroline says, ‘The Legend of Valentine Sorrow will be out in 2022.’

PLEASE SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRE WHEN IT REOPENS Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.

The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000.

Caroline is currently taking bookings for her 1:1 mentoring service for adults and would be delighted to work with you. If you would like to know more please contact her via her website: https://carolinebusher.wordpress.com/mentoring/ Please note that the mentoring service is facilitated through zoom and spaces are limited.

Go on, take the plunge, the time is now! n

Co. Wexford’s libraries remain closed to the public in line with government guidelines. However they are due to reopen on 10th May. In the meantime: Online library 24/7 Free eBooks, eAudiobooks, eNewspapers, eLanguage learning, online courses, comics and graphic novels, business and company research and more can be found at www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries/ebooks-and-eresources Delivery Book Call Service for elderly or vulnerable citizens.

You can request a bag of books and it will be delivered directly to your door. Phone: 053-9196566 between 9.30am-5.30pm Monday to Friday.

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Whatever, the bi-annual Arts Ability initiative Online Exhibition * Artist Book * Documentary Videos * Peer Workshops * Officially launched Online on 28th April 2021.

The Arts Department of Wexford County Council in association with Wexford Arts Centre are pleased to have launched Whatever, the bi-annual Arts Ability initiative. This year, Whatever comprises an online exhibition, original artist book, documentary videos and peer workshops by, for and with artists and collaborators.

Since 2003, the Arts Ability Programme has supported hundreds of artists by providing space, materials, tuition and facilitators in centres and homes throughout the South-East. Well over forty artists are taking part in Whatever, which has opened up a variety of ways that have sought to transcend any restrictions imposed

by Covid-19. Presented bi-annually, artist Dominic Thorpe was Guest Curator in 2017 and Catherine Marshall in 2019.

Wexford Mental Health Association through its Music Exploration Programme. Partner venues include: Killagoley Training & Activation Centre (KTAC, Enniscorthy), County Wexford Community Workshop, (CUMAS, New Ross), Wexford Residential and Intellectual Services (WRIDS, Enniscorthy) as well as care and residential homes countywide. It is a person-centred, participation focused initiative, the primary goal of which is to provide access to high quality art experiences based on meaningful engagement between participant artists and professional artists.

Whatever is curated by Jenny Haughton and Catherine Bowe working in collaboration with the artists, and lead artists’ facilitators Declan Kennedy, Oonagh Latchford, Joe Brennan, Emily Redmond and John Busher.

For further information contact Catherine Bowe, Wexford Arts Centre, Cornmarket, Wexford at catherine@wexfordartscentre.ie or the Arts Department, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford at arts@wexfordcoco.ie n

Speaking about Whatever, Guest Curator Jenny Haughton said: ‘This year, the aim is to explore the diversity of approaches to creative production. Whether through writing, singing, painting or sewing, Whatever offers a collective contribution to understanding creative experience’.

The Arts Department of Wexford County Council has commissioned a dedicated website for Arts Ability which will extend the life and legacy of this programme. The website will feature the Whatever exhibition including an original artist book and a series of video documentaries. These documentaries, produced by filmmaker Terence White, explore the studio processes of a number of the artists involved in the programme highlighting techniques and interests that are pertinent to them.

The Arts Ability programme has expanded in recent years and is a partnership between the Arts Department of Wexford County Council, the HSE Disability and Mental Health Services and

Andrew Murphy, Sky, acrylic on canvas, 90 x 120cm

‘Wexford Women Writing Undercover Wexford Women Writing Undercover is a new women's writing anthology which launched its first edition in March 2021 to coincide with International Womens Day. Red Books in Wexford is proud to be involved with this incredible collection of writings brought together

by Deirdre McGarry.

One can order a copy at the Red Books website: www.theirishbookshop.com for just €8. They will post nationally and internationally, and offer free delivery in Wexford town.

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Huge congratulations to Deirdre, Rachel Druett and Zeff Ryder on production; to the stunning artists featured: Madeleine O'Rourke, ArtSouls, Ilona FreedmanMorris and Trish Cavanagh; to Practical Printers, and to the talented writers published within.

They are: * Rachel Druett * Irene Allen * Meritxell Grau Butinyac * Ravinder Kaur Kullar * Brenda Buntin * AM Cousins * Paula Malone Carty

* Sinead * Elizabeth Stanley * Caroline Stevens-Taylor * Diane Wilbon Parks * Roseanne Fitzgerald * Amy Bobeda * Elva Crowley * Jean Newsum

* Suzan Doran * Anonymous * Emma Hyland * Helena Murray * Trish Cavanagh * Helen Kavanagh * Maggie Jackson * Ita Gratton * Patricia Walsh * Rachel Jordan * Jean Maskell * Anonymous * Gail Sheridan * Rosemary Palmeira * Deirdre McGarry * Nicola O' Hanlon * Aisling Delahunty * Sarah McFadden * Suzi Marsden * Breda Joyce

* Concepta Moran * Catherine Ronan * Norah Hanson * Sue Lozynskyj * Mary McCollum * Rosemary Wordsmith * Susan Morrissey * Anna Stafford * Mary O' Brien * Mary O' Gorman * Margaret Galvin * Keyana * Sylvia Dianne Beverley The book’s introduction is by Wexford's finest, Michelle Dooley Mahon. n

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Enniscorthy’s Colm Tóibín features in new documentary

Director Brendan J Byrne talks about Colm Tóibín: On Memory's Shore, his new documentary portrait of the acclaimed author of Brooklyn and The Master, which premieresd on RTÉ 1 on Monday, April 19th.

Setting out to make a documentary about Colm Tóibín in late Autumn 2020, we were faced with some Covid restrictions challenges, but we jumped the hurdles as we met them.

In Colm, we had a man well able to tell his own story without reliance on others, giving us a deep insight into both his work and working methods. We could use his houses in central Dublin and Wexford as our twin backdrops. Dublin is where Colm Tóibín has spent the majority of his adult life, and the coastline of his Wexford childhood continues to play a vivid role in his artistic imagination.

during the pandemic, but in this regard too, we were also fortunate in that the National Library of Ireland were only too keen to facilitate us and when it comes to Enniscorthy, you soon find Colm Tóibín has the keys to the town.

We also wanted to make Colm’s new book, The Magician, due to be published later this year, a recurrent thread throughout the film.

It is a fictionalised account of celebrated German author Thomas Mann’s life and it made sense for us to root Colm’s telling of this story in Venice, the location of Mann’s most famous work, Death in Venice.

We set dates for late October 2020. Getting into Italy depended on producing proof of negative Covid tests within 72 hours of arrival. It would also mean that we would need to hire a local film crew.

Every room in Colm’s Dublin townhouse is like a miniature film set, such is the abundance of books in every corner of every room, a clutter of paintings both hung and unhung, alongside a wealth of CDs. Should a small crowd spend a lifetime in this house they would not be able to see, read and hear everything it has to offer. Equally, Colm’s beautifully designed Wexford bolthole has an enchanting sea view and is an oasis where Colm has found a great place of work, inspiration and relaxation.

So Colm, producer Stephen Douds and I found ourselves in the emptiest Dublin airport I have ever witnessed, negative tests in hand. When we landed in Venice, there was still time for a late wander in its hypnotic streets.

Getting locations to open their doors for filming has been something of a challenge

Colm knew the city well and our filming itinerary was planned in advance. First stop was

When the alarm rang early the next morning we entered a misty city whose uncharacteristically quiet, tourist-free atmosphere presented us with a visual bounty, as the sound of every church bell carried like an echo around its narrow streets and canals.

the majestic San Rocco to film Colm talking about Tintoretto’s masterpiece The Crucifixion and its rich example of storytelling, then off to Lido to film scenes relevant to Death in Venice before catching sunset over the water, the tower of San Giorgio for high vistas, and an unusually empty St Mark’s Square – it would have been rude not to.

All the while, we were intoxicated by Colm’s lucid interpretation of his new book, peppered with readings in magical locations in an unmistakeable, inky Venice light. Our Italian crew took to Colm’s loquacious and friendly manner immediately, referring to him as ‘Mr Colm’ throughout.

And then, just like a dream, it was over. With the thump of wheels on tarmac we were back in Dublin a mere 72 memorable hours later.

It was both a pleasure and an honour to spend some time with an artist and writer of Colm’s stature. Friendly, funny, and embarrassingly intelligent, an Irishman to his core who has become one of the country’s great chroniclers of the Irish experience.

An experience drawn largely from memories evoked from childhood on the shoreline of his beloved Ballyconnigar, is where our camera finds him at the beginning of the film. It is from here, on memory’s shore, where Colm turns lived experience into fictional gold.

I’ve no doubt his passion and enthusiasm for both life and his art will shine through in the documentary. n

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The Walls Project in New Ross The Walls Project team have been working closely with Wexford County Council in New Ross over the last year.

Visit: https://m.facebook.com/newrossmurals

Four large scale murals are the first of a series of artworks being delivered in New Ross, a fifth large scale mural artwork is coming soon.

'The Walls Project' artists are Aches, Case McClaim, Dan Leo and Hollie Pereira with the theme 'The Normans' refecting the fact that New Ross is a Norman town.

The Walls Project is also working on the Laneways of New Ross which is a collaborative piece by artists Curtis Hylton, Omin and Friz.

So New Ross is building quite a collection of mural art.

Visit the New Ross murals with all the information you need by clicking: https://m.facebook.com/newrossmurals

EMERGENCE Visual Art Award 2021 Wexford County Council Arts

award cycle and a solo exhibition at

Department and Wexford Arts

Wexford Arts Centre in September

Centre in partnership with Wexford

2023.

Campus School of Art and Design (IT Carlow) are pleased to announce a call for applications for the EMERGENCE Visual Art Award 2021.

Notably, the award is aimed at artists at the earlier stages of their careers or those re-engaging in their practice after a period of time or absence.

The deadline for receipt of email

However, interest is also welcomed

submissions is 4.00pm Thursday 17th

from artists who may have previously

June, 2021.

created and publicly presented a

The term ‘emergence’ connects to the

modest body of independent works

central purpose of this award which is

and are eager to progress in their

to support visual artists with the devel-

professional and creative devel-

opment and promotion of their prac-

opment. In addition, artists who

tice. The award is open to artists of

demonstrate innovative experimenta-

any age with a third level visual arts

tion in their practice are encouraged

education and three years of post-

to apply.

graduate experience or the equivalent

Facilitated by Wexford Arts Centre,

in self-guided practice.

the award winner will have the oppor-

This award is presented biannually to

tunity to link with the Wexford Campus

one visual artist based in Ireland.

School of Art & Design (IT Carlow) and

Produced under the guidance of

will be encouraged to develop

Curator Catherine Bowe, the award

connections over the period of the

has a monetary value of €15,000 and

award. As part of this partnership,

includes additional mentorship

Wexford Campus School of Art &

support to value of €2,000 over the

Design will offer the award winner self-

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directed opportunities to engage with the staff and students and also avail of practical resources such as studio space and access to equipment for a period. The artist will have the opportunity to potentially collaborate with students or staff to realise their work in a mutually beneficial research or production capacity and partake in the Visiting Lecture Series.

Applicants are asked to make a clear case of why the award would be of value to their practice and professional development at this time, and how it will enable them to progress to the next stage in their career. Proposals should be for new work and where appropriate, be site-specific.

Applicants should also consider the context of Wexford County and how they might engage with Wexford Campus School of Arts & Design in their proposal.

See: www.emergenceaward.ie The EMERGENCE Visual Art Award is supported by the Arts Council. n

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FAC ES A ND P LAC ES

Above left: Enjoying a visit to Wexford Quays, Colleen, Oscar and Stephen Murphy.

Above right: Also on the Quays were Pat Morris and daughter Pamela Murphy.

Left: At Courtown Harbour, Joe McDermott and his dog ‘Harry’.

Right: On Wexfords Quay was Lexi Banville.

Below right: Darcy Davis at Courtown Harbour.

Bottom left: Having a chat were best friends Sylvia Scanlon and Betty Doyle in Courtown Harbour.

Bottom right: At Courtown Harbour, Garry and Teresa Murphy, Anne O’Byrne and Kate Murphy.

At Courtown Harbour on 23rd April were Alysaa and Nicola Dooley.

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WCC achieves energy standard Councillor Ger Carthy, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, has formally announced that Wexford County Council, supported by 3 Counties Energy Agency, has achieved the globally recognised international energy management standard, ISO 50001, becoming more advanced in optimising energy efficiency.

Wexford County Council, paid tribute to the work undertaken by the crossdepartmental energy team and the 3 Counties Energy Agency. She stated that ‘new energy targets facing the Local Authority for 2030 will be challenging but ISO 50001 provides us with a systematic approach to achieve continuous improvement in terms of energy performance.’

The ISO 50001 standard was developed to support public and private sector organisations committed to efficient energy management providing the most robust framework for achieving cost and carbon emission reductions.

Ray Murphy, Acting Chief Fire Officer with Wexford County Council, who has led the certification programme, stated that, ‘There is a programme of works about to commence that has been recently approved with funding support under SEAI’s Better Energy Communities programme. This will focus retrofitting several of our facilities

Councillor Ger Carthy, Cathaoirleach, Wexford County Council, said, ‘We are very proud to achieve this standard. In achieving this international accreditation, energy performance improvement is on the top of the agenda for the organisation and I commend all involved for the great work done to date. Wexford County Council has committed to effective energy management and will meet 2020 public sector energy efficiency targets and has improved performance by 29% in 2019 when compared to the 2009 baseline period. The ISO 50001 certification will be the basis of formulating a pathway to reach energy efficiency and carbon target for 2030 and beyond.’

Tom Enright, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, said, ‘Achieving this standard is a significant accomplishment given the diversity of services that local authorities offer. We are focused and fully committed to continuously improving energy performance in all our operations. This year will see the completion of an extensive public lighting upgrade resulting in significant energy and operational costs savings. Upon completion approximately 97% of the public lights within the county will have been converted to high efficiency LED technology.’

Carolyne Godkin, Director of Services

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such as District Offices, Libraries and Fire Stations with a range of measures including insulation upgrades, fabric improvements, lighting upgrades and Solar PV. In terms of transport, Wexford County Council has started to introduce electric vehicles into the fleet with a current complement of 4 electric vans and 3 forklifts.’

Sarah Kent, 3 Counties Energy Agency (3CEA), stated that, ‘We are very proud that our project partner, Wexford County Council is ISO 50001 accredited for its Energy Management System. It demonstrates that Wexford County Council is taking a systematic and logical approach in its responsibility to continually improve energy management as part of Climate Action goals and commitments.’ n

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Sinn Féin seeks to protect student renters and their parents Sinn Féin TD for Wexford, Deputy Johnny Mythen, has welcomed support shown in the Dáil last month for the Union of Students Ireland (USI) call to provide greater protections for student renters.

Teachta Mythen said: “The Residential Tenancies (Student Rents and Other Protections) (Covid-19) Bill 2021, drafted by the USI alongside Sinn Féin spokesperson on Housing Eoin Ó Broin and spokesperson on Higher Education Rose Conway-Walsh, will provide greatly improved protections for student renters and their parents. The bill has been signed by 56 opposition TDs. “Many students renting student accommodation currently pay a term in advance, which usually runs from September to May, and can cost anything from €5,000 to €9,000 per year.

“This is a huge outlay for many families,

especially middle-income households who cannot access SUSI grants. It is also particularly relevant for students from Wexford who more often than not have no option but to move to attend third level education, due to poor public transport options and lack of availability of courses more locally.

“This bill would prevent providers of student specific accommodation from charging more than one month’s rent in advance.

"Crucially, the bill also addresses concerns raised by the USI about students and their parents not being able to access refunds when they had to leave, or could not take up, student accommodation due to Covid19 restrictions.

“In the past year, many students have found themselves unable to access their accommodation due to public health measures and were denied rent refunds for

unused accommodation. This bill allows for the prompt refunds in such instances.

“This bill would also enable a student to end a tenancy in student-specific accommodation by serving the landlord with a notice of termination of 28 days.

“We talk often about the mental health fallout of this pandemic on our young people. There is no doubt that financial pressures due to the current chaos in student accommodation is negatively impacting our young people’s wellbeing.

This bill would offer greater protection in this regard, and for that reason alone it should be supported by all public representatives.

“I welcome that this bill was supported today, but there is more work to do to progress these changes and I call on all TDs to support this bill as it progresses through the Oireachtas to provide students, and their parents, the protections they require.” n

Steven elected to Young Fine Gael National Executive Steven Murphy, a 23-year-old primary school teacher from Screen, Co. Wexford, was elected to Young Fine Gael’s National Executive at the Young Fine Gael National Conference last month. Steven, who is now the Leinster Regional Organiser for Young Fine Gael has been a member of the Wexford branch for over eight years, having joined when he was a third-year student in CBS Enniscorthy.

After a well fought campaign from both candidates, Steven was victorious and he is now responsible for the Leinster Region in Young Fine Gael and must make sure that all constituencies in the region have active branches, run local campaigns and assist their Councillors, TDs and Senators. In the past, some high-level Ministers and TDs have been elected to the Young Fine Gael National

Executive including Leo Varadkar and Simon Harris, who was once Leinster Regional Organiser himself.

After his election, Steven was thrilled with the result saying, “I am delighted and honoured to be elected Leinster Regional Organiser of Young Fine Gael. I am very grateful for everyone who has supported me and voted for me and I am looking forward to the term ahead.” He added, “For the past few weeks, I have worked tirelessly speaking to as many Young Fine Gael members, Councillors, TDs, Senators and Ministers as possible looking for support and guidance. It certainly is the highlight of my political career to date, and I plan on working very hard to make sure that I leave my mark on the Leinster Region within Young Fine Gael”.

Steven’s term will last until the next

Red Speaking n

National Conference which will be held in the Winter of 2022.

Wexford Young Fine Gael is always looking for new members. Anyone aged 15-35 can join. The Wexford Branch will be holding its AGM soon.

For the foreseeable future, events and meetings will be online, but will revert back to face-to-face when restrictions allow. You will find more information about Wexford Young Fine Gael on Facebook or on www.yfg.ie n

4th May 2021 - Page 81

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Call for the new Office of the Gambling Regulator to be located in Gorey

“A disaster for Irish fishing communities” Mick Wallace MEP

Senator Malcolm Byrne has called for the new Office of the Gambling Regulator to be located in Gorey.

Speaking in a Seanad debate on forthcoming gambling legislation, Malcolm recalled that in 2007, the then Minister for Justice, Michael McDowell, promised that the planned Office of the Gambling Regulator would be located in Gorey.

Malcolm said, “The legislation has been delayed a long time but as part of my contribution in the Seanad on Friday on regulating gambling, I urged that the Office, once established, would be based in Gorey. The necessary office infrastructure is already in place in the town and would be an ideal home for the new regulator.”

He pointed that the legislation will deal with all aspects of gambling in Ireland and will focus on ways to tackle gambling addiction.

It is being steered through the Oireachtas by Junior Minister James Browne and Malcolm added that he would hope that “James could deliver on Michael McDowell’s promise of 14 years ago!” n

Speaking during the European Parliament plenary debate on the EUUK Trade and Cooperation Agreement last month, Ireland South MEP Mick Wallace said, "When the EU-UK deal is done and dusted, the EU needs to look at getting concessions from the bigger member states and give Irish fishermen and women quotas that have some measure of fairness."

Mr Wallace said: "The quota transfers in the Agreement are hugely disproportionate and massively unfair on Ireland in comparison to other coastal member states. Irish fishermen and women want rebalanced, fair quotas. They will not accept a decommissioning of boats.

Decommissioning boats would mean decommissioning communities, communities like Kilmore Quay, Duncannon, Dunmore East and Castletownbere."

In his speech, Mr Wallace declared, "The Agreement is a disaster for Irish fishermen and coastal communities."

Senator Malcolm Byrne

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It is estimated Ireland will lose €43 million worth of quota share by 2026, which represents 15% of its total.

Mackerel, prawn, whitefish and herring sectors will be hardest hit.

According to a European Commission proposal, Ireland is set to receive more than €1 billion euro through the Brexit Adjustment Reserve to mitigate the effects of Brexit. The Commission’s proposal would ensure that those Member States worst affected by Brexit because of the interconnectedness of their economies with the UK would get the larger share of the funding.

However, Mr Wallace raised concerns about a number of amendments tabled

by French MEPs in a draft report on the Commission's proposal in relation to the Commission's methodology for allocating the funding: "The draft reports on the Reserve by both the Budgets and Fisheries Committee rapporteurs include a number of amendments which would significantly reduce Ireland’s percentage of the Reserve fund. The amendments are designed to favour the larger member states."

A video of the speech is available here: https://twitter.com/wallacemick/status/ 1387036222107754504 n

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FACES AND PLACES... ENNISCORTHY

The Promenade Playground, Enniscorthy, 16th April, 2021.

Above left: Erin and her dad Damien Harris.

Above centre: Cormac O’Neill.

Above right: Bobby Redmond.

Below left: Isabella Quirke and Mason Doyle.

Below right: Martin and Conor Canavan.

4th May 2021 - Page 83

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FACES A ND PLACES. . . GOREY

Enjoying Gorey Towns Park, 23rd April: Above left: Summer Fortune and her dad David. Above right: Michael Hynes. Below left: Kai Fortune. Below right: Patrick Jobionski.

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Wexford Mayor Leonard Kelly clarifies changes at Curracloe

The following is a summary by Mayor Leonard Kelly of measures that Wexford County Council is taking.

1. A beach warden is being employed for the summer season (end of May to middle of September) to manage the 3 beaches of Curracloe (White Gap), Ballinesker and Culleton’s Gap. The warden will be there to assist the members of the public, to monitor littering and illegal dumping and to ensure compliance with the beach byelaws.

mitigate the risk). In order to address this issue, the bulk of the car park will be only accessible for conventional vehicles, 2 height-restriction barriers and bollards will ensure that high-sided vehicles will not be able to park in the bulk of the car

park. Daytrip camper vans will be able to access the part of the car park nearest the public convenience.

In addition, it will be a smaller area for the new beach warden to police. n

2. The car park at Culleton’s Gap has been resurfaced creating an additional 20 parking spaces including 2 dedicated disabled spaces at the closest point to the beach. The resurfacing has also accommodated a one-way system at the car park making it safer and easier for visitors to park.

3. Parking at the main beach car park at Curracloe is at a premium. Over the years there has been considerable issues with campers parking overnight in breach of the byelaws. Despite the best efforts of our wardens the campers often come at late hours and on occasions do not move on when asked. They can take up 2 spaces and some light barbeques near the sensitive dune system. We have had 3 dune fires in the last 5 years (not stating that the fires are a direct consequence of campers but we must

4th May 2021 - Page 85