Slaney News
ServiNg Co. wexford for the laSt 12 yearS
Issue 150 – November 2022
THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF SOUTH EAST TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY PIC: PATRICK BROWNE
FULL STORY ON PAGE 42
SEE PAGE 8 INSIDE
ISLAND ROAD, ENNISCORTHY 053-9233601, 086-2457664
KAVANAGH’S GARAGE
Auto Maintenance & Repairs – Diagnostics – Pre-NCT and DOE Tests – Clutches, Brakes, etc – Breakdown Assistance
Pharmaton Vitality
30s €10, 100s €27 Pharmaton Immuno Kavanagh’s 30s €10
Haven
Pharmacy
DUFFRY HILL, ENNISCORTHY. T: (053) 9234660.
Tel: 053 9138992. Mobile: 087 2994988 Email: ken@kenscomputerclinic.com Computer & Laptop Sales & Repairs IT Services & Website Design
SlaNey SlaNeyadS ad
James
Browne TD Minister of State at the Department of Justice TD for Wexford
My team and I are ready to help you
Contact me Lower Church Street, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford 053 9235046 JamesBrowneTD@oir.ie @JamesBrowneTD
Of昀ce Open Weekdays:
10am-12pm, 2pm-4pm.
Open 022 night 2 f
14th o Monday er from novemb pm 5.30-7.30
St.Mary’s C.B.S.
enniSCOrthy
Admission into St Mary’s CBS, Enniscorthy, September 2023
St Mary’s C.B.S. will accept fully completed application forms in respect of students in 6th Class Primary School, to our 1st year group in September 2023, from Tuesday 15th to Wednesday 30th November 2022. Admission notice and the school admission policy are available from the school office during normal school hours (9am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday) and may also be downloaded from the school website www.stmaryscbs.ie. Application forms can also be downloaded from the website but cannot be accepted before the 15th of November.
We Care Page 2 - 4th November 2022
We Prepare
We Achieve
SlaNey adS
Contents of this issue of Slaney News... News Leisure & Lifestyle Arts Food & Drink Business & Finance Pets Motoring Sport History & Heritage Environment
page 4 page 54 page 79 page 88 page 96 page 102 page 104 page 106 page 116 page 122
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.
PAT MURPHY OIL LTD. A family-owned Wexford company providing you with a reliable and quality service since 1988 Ask about our Easy Pay Budget Plan All Major Credit & Laser Cards Accepted Delivering Kerosene, Diesel, Gas Oil, Agri Diesel to homes, farms and businesses all around Co. Wexford.
TEL: 053-9255219 - RATHNURE - ENNISCORTHY 4th November 2022 - Page 3
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
comment Welcome to the November issue of the online Slaney News. While everyone is glad to see the footbridge over the Urrin at The Prom open again, allowing access to the Country Walk, the most used walk in Co. Wexford, many were critical of the supposed repair cost of €80,000 – a figure that appeared in the public domain shortly after the bridge was damaged on 19th September in an act of vandalism. Enniscorthy Municipal District Chairperson Cllr Aidan Browne addressed the matter in a statement issued on 26th October 2022 saying: "Wexford County Council has confirmed to me that the cost of these interim works came to €2,000 and not €80,000 as stated elsewhere. I want to commend the Wexford County Council staff for their prompt work in getting the bridge back open within six weeks at a reasonable cost to the taxpayer.” –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– We were delighted to hear of a couple of recent successful prosecutions for illegal dumping taken by Wexford Council Council and delighted also to know that in one case a fine of €1,200 was imposed. Please report any illegal dumping to the Council on: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/wasteand-recycling/report-illegal-dumping –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For anyone concerned that Enniscorthy's Christmas Lights would not be turned on this year as an energy-saving measure, the October meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District provided reassurance that the lights would indeed be switched on, but that energy saving of 20% would be achieved through adjustments to the start and finish times of the lighting each day. It should be noted also that all of the Enniscorthy Christmas lights are of the energy-saving LED variety. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our new format. Telephone: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has over 10,000 Followers. And, of course, if you like our new online format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you. – Frank Corcoran
Page 4 - 4th November 2022
To advertise in the Slaney News please contact: 087-2403310 SLANEY NEWS, CLONHASTON, ENNISCORTHY Tel: 087-2403310 Email: slaneynews@gmail.com www.slaneynews.com Facebook: Slaney News Online: www.issuu.com/slaneynews/docs PUBLISHED in Enniscorthy by Corcoran Print & Design Disclaimer: Slaney News reserves the right to accept or reject any advertisement submitted for publication. Slaney News does not attempt to investigate or verify claims made in advertisements appearing in our publication. The appearance of an advertisement in this publication in no way implies endorsement or approval by us of any advertising claims or of the advertiser, its product, or services. Slaney News disclaims any liability whatsoever in connection with advertising appearing in this publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that all articles published in Slaney News are true and accurate but if any errors do occur please let us know and we will gladly rectify them in our next issue. Where details of future events are given in this publication, we recommend that you check these details directly with the organisers as event details may be subject to change. Slaney News strongly recommends seeking independent professional advice before acting on any financial, medical or other information contained in this publication.
SLANEY NEWS
SlaNey adS
2 Enniscorthy venues ❶
Classes suitable for Beginners- Intermediate levels
Lifestyle Fitness, Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. Tuesdays at 10am. Thursdays at 7pm. Pay As You Go. €10 per class.
❷
The Presentation Centre, Convent Road, Enniscorthy. Saturdays at 10am. Pay As You Go. €10 per class.
Julie Fox Tel: 086 0263713
New Photo Lab now open in Rafter Street, Enniscorthy
www.grantspharmacy.ie Check out our Facebook / Instagram page for special offers!
4th November 2022 - Page 5
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Ballycarney junction The dangerous nature of the junction on the N80 at Ballycarney has been consistently raised by Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan at monthly meetings of Enniscorthy Municipal District. At the October 2022 meeting Cllr Nolan was informed by officials that additional safety signage will be installed there shortly and that TII (Transport Infrastructure Ireland) are surveying there at present so there is a possibility of larger works at some stage in the future. n
Retirements At the October meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District, the recent retirement from business of two of the east side’s best known service providers – Albert O’Callaghan of Centra, Templeshannon, and Bill Hendrick of Hendrick Tyres, was acknowledged by the Councillors and they were thanked for their service to the town over many years. n
Christmas in Enniscorthy There’s plenty of Christmas related information in this issue and also make sure to keep an eye on the ‘Slaney News’ Facebook page for updates on the switching-on of Enniscorthy’s festive lighting, Christmas entertainment, free parking, etc. n
Page 6 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey adS
Senator Malcolm Byrne If I can help in any way please let me know. Tel: 085-8245142 malcolm.byrne@oireachtas.ie Holding clinics on the last Saturday of every month: BUNCLODY Redmond’s Bar 2.00pm to 2.45pm. FERNS Ferns Community Centre 3.00pm to 3.30pm. CAMOLIN Jack’s Tavern 3.45pm to 4.15pm. KILMUCKRIDGE Upton Court Hotel 4.30pm to 5.00pm
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
info@thehatchlab.ie www.thehatchlab.ie The Hatch Lab, M11 Business Campus, Gorey, Y25 A8H2. 4th November 2022 - Page 7
SlaNey SlaNey advertorial ad
Santa’s Enchanted Christmas – sure to shine for the festive season Enniscorthy Municipal District in partnership with the National 1798 Centre, Wexford County Council and supporting sponsor The Riverside Park Hotel are delighted to announce www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie will open its doors on Saturday November 26th and will run five days weekly, Wednesday to Sunday, until December 22nd. An expanded Christmas experience is in the making for patrons with the magical set and show theme produced by local groups Rathnure Panto Society and Red Moon Theatre. Mico Hassett, Manager of the site, says, “The response to general sale tickets which went live on our new website in September has been very encouraging. Priority ‘sleep over’ packages direct from our hotel partner The Riverside Park Hotel are almost at full capacity which is a welcome boost in these difficult trading times.” Ger Mackey, Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager, stated, “We expected interest to be sizeable on our return to a full schedule, the added slot capacity and onsite services such as accessibility and free parking available this year is proving popular with families. It is important we attract visitors to dwell and shop in Enniscorthy during the winter season to bolster the spirit of Christmas alongside benefiting the local economy. I have no doubt the creatives involved and experienced staff will produce and present a wonderful event reflective of the magic of Christmas for all the community to enjoy.” Patrons can check-in on the grounds before entering through
the big red door for an enchanted forty-five minute tour priced from twelve to twenty euros. There will be plenty of elements of surprise as you wander through the multi room spaces with gnomes causing mayhem along the way. Mrs Claus, helped by her elves, will entertain and transport the kids to be gifted by Santa with time to catch the moment on camera. Patrons can arrange a further free trip to Enniscorthy Castle in their own time where a walk through the ground floor festive workshop by the North Two Madness team awaits discovery by all ticket holders, during their normal opening hours. Colm Neville, event sponsor and Chair of Enniscorthy District Chamber, commented, “The Riverside Park Hotel is proud to support the event and I am heartened to see such a positive response to Santa’s Enchanted Christmas from the public across the entire region. I wish the many individuals working together with the organisers and fellow sponsors Wexford County Council continued success with their endeavours. The Southeast’s newest Christmas event will showcase the talent and services we have on our doorstep here in their own particularly entertaining way while both locals and visitors alike can soak up the atmosphere across two cultural sites and around Enniscorthy town.” PRO Sinead Dolan added, “During the countdown from now until our opening weekend, click into our social media platforms for our ‘Gnome News’ flashes with event updates and competition details.”
www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie n
A colourful welcome awaits all at ‘Santa’s Enchanted Christmas’ at the 1798 Centre in Enniscorthy. Page 8 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey ad
6
O K O BO
N I L N
OW N E
26th Nov - 22nd Dec E TICK FROM
TS
€12
6 S antasEnchantedChristmas.ie
4th November 2022 - Page 9
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Housing Congrats solutions Margaret Enniscorthy woman Margaret Walsh has just been recognised as the School Bus Driver of the Year at the Bus Éireann southern region GEM (‘Go the Extra Mile’) Awards which recognise excellent customer service, community impact, performance and forward-thinking. Pic: Allen Parker, Bus Éireann Chief Customer Officer, with award winner Margaret Walsh.
Cllr John O’Rourke has been pushing at recent meetings of Enniscorthy Municipal District for a proactive approach to meeting Enniscorthy’s social housing needs. In particular he has identified vacant buildings on the St John’s Community Hospital campus and the former premises of St Patrick’s School on Bohreen Hill. The latter has been subjected to recent vandalism and needs to be put to alternative use and Cllr O’Rourke believes that in association with an approved housing body, a development like the existing Loreto Village could be put in place consisting of one and twobedroom apartments/bungalows, which would be ideally situated just five minutes walk from the town centre. He urged Council officials to begin discussions as soon as possible and Director of Services, Carolyne Godkin, said the matter would indeed be followed up. Regarding the St John’s campus, Wexford Co. Council has informed Cllr O’Rourke that it has been trying to organise a meeting with the property department of the HSE and are hopeful that a meeting can take place soon to discuss the possibility of building(s) there becoming available that could be converted to use as social housing. n
Enniscorthy Musical Society is holding its AGM on the 30th November 2022 at 8pm in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy. All are welcome. n
Page 10 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey NewS Given the challenges communities across Ireland are facing today, there is the risk that the need to adapt to climate change will not be prioritised. To make sure this does not happen, we must listen to communities and develop solutions that benefit communities. Enniscorthy has been selected to take part in a countrywide project called The People’s Transition. The People’s Transition will find out what the people of Enniscorthy think is needed for their community. From this, a plan will be developed to address these needs in a way that is good for people and the planet. The People’s Transition project is led by TASC, the think tank for action on social change. Based in Dublin, TASC is a registered public education charity which focuses on addressing inequality. The People’s Transition consists of three steps. Firstly, we build a picture of a community using census data and understand what organisations and social outlets are in a community. In the second step, we listen to community members to understand their views and ideas and the challenges they face. We try to make sure that marginalised and hard-to-reach groups are included in this process. The final part of The People’s Transition is the Solutions Phase. Based on the findings of the first two steps, TASC develops a set of solutions for climate action that meets community needs and priorities.
Last year, The People’s Transition was applied in Phibsborough in Dublin and Ardara in County Donegal. In Ardara, like many parts of rural Ireland, the lack of job opportunities in the area was seen as a major problem. In Phibsborough, issues surrounding the lack of affordable and adequate housing and traffic were identified by community members. TASC developed a range of solutions, including the creation of a retrofit co-operative to boost apprenticeship opportunities for young people in Phibsborough and a biochar facility in Ardara to create new ways for farmers to earn income. TASC is continuing to engage with both communities to support the development of these solutions. Over the next three years, TASC, supported by AIB, will engage with more communities across the island of Ireland to identify how communities can adapt to climate change and create new opportunities for local development and community well-being. TASC are delighted to have the opportunity to listen to, and work with the people of Enniscorthy in this project. Enniscorthy is a town rich in history with exciting developments currently taking place. For further information on The People’s Transition and the work we will be doing in Enniscorthy, visit www.peoplestransition.ie or contact kharrahill@tasc.ie
A People’s Transition for Enniscorthy Enniscorthy has been selected to take part in a countrywide project called ‘The People’s Transition’. TASC, the think tank for action on social change, explains what it’s all about.
4th November 2022 - Page 11
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
The Village at Wheelocks Santa Experience
Book the Santa Experience at Wheelocks online at thevillageatwheelocks.ie
Caroline driving progress in motoring journalism
Congratulations to our Slaney News motoring correspondent, Bunclody native Caroline Kidd, who has been elected to the Executive Committee of the newly formed Motoring Media Association of Ireland (MMAI), which has been estab-
lished to represent professional motoring journalists across print and digital outlets in Ireland. The MMAI is respon-
sible for organising the annual Irish Car of the Year and Irish Van of the Year Awards, in association with Continental Tyres, Ireland’s most prestigious and widely recognised motoring accolades for over 40 years. n
The newly elected Motoring Media Association of Ireland Executive Committee at the Association’s inaugural AGM in Dublin. L-R: David Walshe, Secretary; Daragh Keany, Vice-Chair; Joe Rayfus, Chair; Caroline Kidd, PRO; and Martin McCarthy, Treasurer.
Page 12 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey NewS
Enniscorthy Technology Park almost ready to open With 75% of the first building at Enniscorthy’s new Technology Park already let, and with more parties interested, it's looking like full occupancy will be achieved by the time the building opens very early in the new year.
The project, albeit delayed by Covid, looks like being a huge success, and work on a second building on the site will most likely commence in 2023. Tánaiste Leo Varadkar visited the Park on
7th October 2022 for an update on progress there, and was hugely impressed by the scale of the project and also by the quality of the work completed to date under main contractor Michael Bennett. n
Above left: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy with Tomás Bennett. Above centre: Tánaiste Leo Varadkar being briefed on the project by Tom Enright (CEO Wexford Co. Council) and Cllr George Lawlor (Chairman, Wexford Co. Council). Above right: Michael Bennett (contractor), Tom Enright (CEO, Wexford Co. Council) and Colm Neville ( (President, Enniscorthy Chamber), Below: L-R: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Michael Bennett (contractor), Paul Kehoe TD, Cllr Cathal Byrne (Leas Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District), Cllr George Lawlor (Chairman, Wexford Co. Council), Tánaiste Leo Varadkar, Johnny Mythen TD, Minister James Browne TD, Colm Neville (President, Enniscorthy Chamber), Liz Hore (Director of Services, Wexford County Council), Tom Enright (CEO, Wexford Co. Council).
4th November 2022 - Page 13
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Smyth’s Homevalue in Enniscorthy is delighted to be part of the Christmas Shoebox Appeal again this year. You can drop off your shoeboxes in store when you are ready. You can also visit Smyth’s website to see all the ways you can donate and help the appeal if you are not in a position to gift an actual shoebox. Dermot and Betty thank all who support this appeal saying, “We are always overwhelmed with the amount of support it gets every year”and they are looking forward to a generous response from the people of Enniscorthy and surrounding areas again this year.
One year in business
Last month marked Cathal Byrne’s first anniversary of the doors opening on his own law firm ‘Cathal Byrne Solicitor’ situated opposite Enniscorthy Castle. Cathal says, “A massive thank you to all my family, friends, supporters and clients for their help, support and engagement over the past twelve months. In that time we have grown to a team of three and we look forward to continuing to grow and expand in the months ahead.“ For appointments, tel: 053-9270015 or contact Info@CathalByrneSolicitor.ie n
Page 14 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey NewS
Enniscorthy Drama Group honours the late Joe Doyle
Enniscorthy Drama Group was delighted to present a cheque for €1,800 to Julie Mullally and Calodagh Doyle of Cystic Fibrosis Wexford Branch, the proceeds from the premiere night of Fintan Kelly’s play ‘Farsiders’, in memory of the late Joe Doyle, one of Enniscorthy Drama Group’s most valued members. Pic: Maria Nolan.
Sale coming soon! Toastmasters
Kilcannon Garden Centre’s annual sale, with 40% off, will commence on 12th of November 2022.
Would you like to... Speak without fear in public, communicate effectively, learn from others, develop leadership skills, try chairing a meeting, and have fun at the same time? Then check out ‘Enniscorthy Toastmasters’ on Facebook. n
4th November 2022 - Page 15
SlaNey SlaNey advertorial ad
Celebrating the launch of The
The Bailey Manager, Edward Hogan (in centre of pic below) oversaw what was a very successful and enjoyable launch night.
Page 16 - 4th November 2022
Below: Some attendees enjoying the launch night on 27th September of The Bailey’s new Evening Menu.
SlaNey advertorial
Main Course. Asian Style Braised Pork Belly
ME NU
9hr Braised Feather Blade Mignon Steak
24.95
Market Fish
21.50
served with vanilla anglaise, vanilla bean ice cream (1.2.9.10.11)
15.95
Served with chocolate sauce, toffee ice cream (1.2.9.11)
Clams, baby boils, chunky passata sauce & garlic ciabatta. (2.4.5.8.9.11.12.13)
Grilled Chicken Supreme
Creamy Tagliatelle
14.95
Creamy pancetta & sun-dried tomato tagliatelle, garlic ciabatta, parmesan (1.2.8.11.12)
5.50
The Bailey's Favorites
Korean Style BBQ wings, Ranch dressing, Crisp Celery Stalks (1.2.7.8.11.12.13)
10.95
Sautéed in garlic butter, spicy chilli & chorizo with fresh parsley & toasted sourdough bread (2.3.9.11)
Thai Yellow Curry
Crisp buttery sourdough (2.4.8.9.11.12)
Chicken Caesar Salad,
9.50
Cos lettuce, parmesan cheese, bacon lardons, The Bailey's own Caesar dressing, herb & Garlic croutons (1.2.5.9.11.13)
Truffle Cheese & Garlic Ciabatta 7.50 Toasted garlic ciabatta, cheese, truffle oil (1.2.11.13)
6.20
Toffee sauce, ginger crumb, salted ice cream (2.8.9.12.13)
5.95
6.20
Daim Cake
CHICKEN 13.95, FISH & PRAWN 14.95 , VEG 11.95 Steamed basmati rice, garlic naan bread
served with vanilla anglaise, vanilla bean ice cream (1.2.9.10.11)
15.95
(1.2.5.8.9.11.13)
Cocktail Favourites. Pink Bubbles 14.95
Jalapeno & monterey jack chicken burger, fries, coleslaw (1.2.9.11)
Vegan Burger
2.80
Cappuccino
3.40
Café Latte
3.40
Espresso
2.80
Double Espresso
3.70
Mocha
3.50 3.20
Hot Chocolate
3.70
Flat White
3.40
Irish Coffee
7.30 7.10
Hot Whiskey
5.90
Hot Port
5.90
15.50
Dressed bun, monterey jack, tomato relish & fries (1.2.8.9.11.13)
Mex Style Chicken Burger
2.80
Herbal tea selection
Baileys Coffee
Fries, tartar sauce, & mushy peas
Bailey's Cheese Beef Burger
House tea
Regular Americano
Toffee, vanilla, strawberry (1.2.9.10.11)
(1.2.3.4.5.8.9.11.13)
Crisp Battered Haddock Creamy White Wine Mussel Pot 12.95
White chocolate cookie crumb & milk chocolate ice cream (1.2.9.11)
Selection of Ice Cream
8.00
3.00 3.00 2.00 2.50 3.00 3.00 3.00
Tea & Coffee. 6.20
Sticky Toffee Pudding 24.95
8oz Striploin Steak Sautéed mushroom, onions & 3 peppercorns sauce with fries (2.8.9.11.12,13)
(2.8.9.11.12)
Home-style Chips House Dressed Salad Coleslaw Homemade brown bread Mashed Potato Seasonal Vegetables Garlic Baby Boils
6.20
Chocolate Mousse Terrine
Served with homemade Guinness bread
Garlic and Chorizo Prawns
6.20
Banoffee Tart
Wilted greens, wild mushroom & pearl onion jus (2.8.9.12.13)
Add Chicken €3
Korean BBQ Chicken Wings
Desserts. Apple & Berry Crumble
Celeriac puree, rich beef jus (2.8.9.12.13)
Appetizer.
Soup of the Day
Sides.
18.95
Butternut puree, warm Asian dressing & butter pak choi. (2.7.8.11.12.13)
Espresso Martini 14.95
plant based vegan patty, dressed bun, sweet chilli vegan mayo, fries (8.9.11.13)
10.00
Gordons Pink Gin, grenadine, lime juice & Prosecco Frizzante
Kahlua coffee liqueur, Absolut vanilla vodka & a shot of espresso
10.00
Allergy Info. Key Allergens (1) Eggs (2) Milk (3) Shellfish (4) Molluscs (5) Fish (6) Peanuts (7) Sesame (8) Soya (9) Sulphur Dioxide (10) Nut (11)Gluten (12) Celery (13)Mustard(14 )Lupin
e Bailey’s new Evening Menu The Bailey Bar – Home of good food and family celebrations Following a difficult year for the restaurant industry, with staff shortages, crushing operational costs, and ever-changing customer behaviours, the Bailey Bar & Eatery in Enniscorthy last month put all this behind them and threw open their doors welcoming locals and visitors to the launch of their new evening menu and function spaces. Guests and diners were treated to an evening of delicious, appetising food along with a treat of classic and creative cocktails from the bar’s experienced team of mixologists. Renowned for its flavoursome culinary offering, and a commitment to freshness and quality based on a focus on using local produce, both lunch and evening menus at The Bailey consist of a mix of traditional and modern dishes. Daily lunch specials include wholesome and hearty Irish bacon & cabbage, and roast beef offerings, along with everyone’s favourite dishes including steaks, burgers and lasagne. Catering for all dietary needs is a key priority for the kitchen team, who have included a tasty vegan curry and delicious plant-based vegan patty. General Manager Ned Hogan was delighted to see so many locals and neighbouring businesses on the night saying, “Everyone is very aware of the challenges the restaurant trade has faced over the past year or two. We have been very lucky to have had solid support from our locality, for which we are very appreciative and we look forward to developing and growing these relationships over the coming months.”
Many of the guests and diners on the night took to social media to compliment the chef and all the staff on a very successful night including TV broadcaster and influencer Laura Mullet who, along with friends, attended for a girls’ night out before her upcoming wedding. Laura gushed about the night on her Facebook page saying, “Girls’ night at the Bailey Bar menu tasting... the food was amazing.” The evening took place in the stylish and vibrant “Mezzanine”, which is one of three fantastic, multi-purpose venue spaces the Bailey has to offer. Catering for a wide range of events and celebrations from family occasions such as christening, communion, and anniversary meals and private dining options to corporate and community events including concerts and comedy nights in “The Venue” or the state-ofthe-art “Studio”complete with its own dancefloor, private bar, lighting, and sound system. No matter the event, the Bailey Bar and Eatery has a venue space and menu to suit your needs. The Bailey bar serves breakfast from 9:30am with their lunch menu from 12 noon daily. The evening menu runs from 5pm until late. Table reservations and bookings for private functions and occasions can be made at www.thebailey.ie or by calling the Bailey events team on 053 9230353. If you haven’t been to the Bailey lately, now is the time to check it out – Ned and the team look forward to welcoming you. n
4th November 2022 - Page 17
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Energy Saving Expo success Sustainable Enniscorthy, a voluntary community group and registered Sustainable Energy Community (SEC), hosted their first Energy Saving Expo on Saturday 1 October in the Riverside Park Hotel. Twelve local companies and organisations that provide energy efficient products, services, information, and grants took part in the Energy Saving Expo. They spoke to approximately 200 local people who visited the free event, offering advice to help them save energy, money and our planet. Feedback from the public included positive comments such as, “Got more out of this than a day at the ploughing championship. You had the right mix of stands.” Feedback from the stand-holders included encouraging comments and welcome advice: Wexford Stoves & Fireplaces: “People need to be educated on the proper fuel to burn.” Most people don’t know that unseasoned timber which is not properly dried only produces 1kW of heat, whereas properly dried timber produces 5kW of heat. That’s five times as much heat. Another good tip is to leave some ash in the pan of your stove. Your wood will burn longer, hotter and cleaner if you leave some ash in the pan. The Coatek representative said that people “were going away with a new way of thinking about their windows”. Áine Doyle from Enniscorthy Credit Union said they had “a good crowd” at their stand enquiring about their Green Loans for energy efficient home upgrades. HeatDoc had one of the biggest queues at the Expo and their rep said he “hadn’t stopped talking all day”. There was a lot of interest in changing to heat pumps, but many people were concerned about major disruption to their homes. HeatDoc’s representative said that “people think you’re ripping up the place, pulling all the pipes up, but it’s not the case”. He referred a lot of people to a BER (Building Energy Rating) assessor as the best starting point for home energy efficiency projects. He said HeatDoc are “flat out” installing heat pumps and mentioned a site in Kilkenny where they were installing 260 heat pumps. Cliona Connolly, Environment Awareness Officer with Wexford County Council said visitors were genuinely interested in learning how to save energy. There was big interest in the Home Energy Saving Kit which is available to borrow for free at Enniscorthy Library. The Home Energy Saving Kit helps people learn more about how they are using (and possibly wasting) energy in their homes. Cliona was giving out free brown bin food waste caddies and she said there are always lots of home composting questions at these events. The representative from Liam Doyle Boilers who supply Firebird boilers said he had “a nice steady flow of people” at his stand and great interest in HVO, Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil, which he predicts is “going to be the saviour of the boiler”. He said, “people are panicking that they can’t put in a boiler after 2025 – it’s scaremongering and misleading.” He was glad to put their minds at rest, and they were pleasantly surprised that “HVO is the way forward”. Marie from Keating Insulation was very enthusiastic about the
Page 18 - 4th November 2022
Energy Saving Expo. “It was great from a networking point-of-view to get to know other local suppliers in this area, to pass business back and forward”. She also got lots of positive feedback from existing customer who called to her stand, saying “you were right about the insulation” – in terms of reducing energy cost and improving comfort in the house. Marie got lots of enquiries on the day of the Expo and also during the week before the Expo due to the publicity it gained in local newspapers – the Enniscorthy Guardian and Slaney News and on South East Radio and on Facebook. Marie described it overall as “a really good experience and we were delighted to be involved. It was a lovely environment – raising awareness with no pressure to buy things – it was all about information and advice.” Thomas McGuire from IEVOA – the Irish Electric Vehicles Owners Association was on hand to answer questions about electric vehicles (EVs). One EV driver was pleased to learn from Thomas of the existence of a low emissions toll incentive, so battery-only EV drivers get a discount of 50%-75% on their toll charges in return for producing no emissions. Fiona O’Loughlin at the South East Energy Agency stand reported a consistent, steady flow of people at their stand. People were interested and engaged, they described the Energy Saving Expo as a great idea, and wanted to know more about Sustainable Enniscorthy and future events. “When are they going to do it again?” and “How can I find out more.” The Pinergy Solar Electric stand had a non-stop queue of people wanting to ask questions about solar power all day. Their representative was so busy he didn’t even get a chance to give some feedback on his experience of the day. He probably was too parched to say another word anyway! Ennniscorthy Municipal District councillors, Cllr. Barbara-Anne Murphy and Cllr. John O’Rourke were among the many visitors to the Expo. A representative of Sustainable Enniscorthy mentioned that the hire of the room in the Riverside was paid using the Amenity and Arts Grant Scheme funding from Wexford County Council following the funding decision of Enniscorthy Municipal District councillors. Sustainable Enniscorthy would like to thank Enniscorthy M.D. councillors for this financial support, and were glad to be able to show that the money funded a successful event (and stayed in the town!). The group hope to get funding in 2023 for more sustainable events. Sustainable Enniscorthy would also like to thank all exhibitors for taking part, to Julie Grant from Wexford Local Development who helped to promote the event in the community, and to the staff at the Riverside who helped with the setup of the room. Sustainable Enniscorthy is a small, voluntary, community group and is looking for new members to get actively involved in promoting the sustainability message, and helping with organising sustainable events and awareness campaigns with community groups, businesses, schools and individuals. Anyone interested in getting involved may contact them on sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com. The group would also welcome followers, likes and shares on the Sustainable Enniscorthy Facebook page and on Instagram @enniscorthysus to help spread the word. More information on www.sustainableenniscorthy.com n
SlaNey NewS Throughout this series, the team at Sustainable Enniscorthy hope to show how different elements of sustainability connect to each other and our community. Following on from Air Quality last month, now we jump into Active Travel, noting how different travel options can improve our health and the health of our local community, all while helping the environment too. Getting from A to B usually involves being active in some way, however Active Travel is defined as travelling with purpose using your own energy. Generally, this means walking and cycling for purposes like getting to work or school. Going for a cycle around the Ring of Kerry is considered active leisure not active travel but that doesn’t make it any less enjoyable. Often the term active travel is used as part of a wider movement towards sustainable transport or mobility, which also includes public transport, like buses and trains.
Sustainable
Enniscorthy The Slaney News is delighted to welcome the local Sustainable Enniscorthy group on board with their new monthly column, which in this issue looks at Active Travel.
Active travel has lots of benefits for ourselves and those around us. We all know that exercise is good for us. Healthy Ireland highlights how going for a walk or a cycle improves our physical and mental health. Active travel also cuts out the fuel costs of other modes of transport. Walking and cycling doesn’t produce harmful emissions, so the more people in a community engage in active travel, the better the air quality. As mentioned in last month’s article, better air quality means healthier communities. While cycling isn’t completely free, it can form part of a local circular economy, as we repair and maintain our bikes, and pass on preloved bikes so they can be reused. By reducing traffic congestion, active travel also benefits other road users too, helping people who don’t have the option to walk or cycle. By taking it step by step, we can gradually increase the amount of active travel in our daily and weekly routines. Maybe it’s too far to walk or cycle all the way to work but perhaps we can park the car a bit away from the office and walk the last few minutes. As the habit builds over time, we can surprise ourselves just how much we can increase this distance. Green Schools promoted a national Walk to School Week earlier this year, while others have introduced initiatives like ‘Walking Wednesday’ to encourage an active travel day once a week. Another option is a ‘Cycle Bus’,
Credit: Dublin City Council
where children cycle together as a group accompanied by parents and volunteers.
different transport modes makes the
Active travel and sustainable transport aims to help people in the community get where they need to go in ways that keep us all healthy, happy and safe. Towns and cities using sustainable transport systems function best with segregated lanes for pedestrians, cyclists, cars and buses and ample bike parking at train and bus stations. Using many
we don’t have to wait until it reaches En-
system function better. In Wexford, a new ebike initiative is just starting but niscorthy to take the first step on our active travel journey. If you would like to get involved in Sustainable Enniscorthy or keep informed of our initiatives, please follow us on Facebook or email sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com n
4th November 2022 - Page 19
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Local businesses recognised as being age-friendly
Last month, as part of Wexford Co. Council’s Age Friendly Ireland Programme, Cllr. Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District, presented the Age Friendly Business Charters Awards to a number of very deserving businesses in the Enniscorthy area:
Btwenty7 Coffee - Conor Swaine C & R Print - Colette Furlong Grants Pharmacy - Linda Tobin Impresso Cafe - Kellianne McGannon Kelly’s Local Pharmacy - Aideen Walsh Kilcannon Garden Centre - Ben Bernie Riverside Park Hotel - Aine Brauders The Slaney Inn - Cllr. Willie Kavanagh
The Whitehouse Pub - Rachel Canavan Wheelock Fruits - Carol Nolan The awards were given to these Enniscorthy businesses for their work on the Age Friendly Business Recognition Programme. Well done to all. n
The National 1798 Rebellion Centre is now temporarily closed to the public but the doors will be back open soon for the fantastic Santa's Enchanted Christmas! For information, visit www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie
Page 20 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey NewS
LAUGHING ALL THE WAY TO THE BANK! Financial institutions will always find opportunities during a crisis. Pensions, investments, loans and mortgages are actively being targeted for ‘churning‘. This is a practice used in the industry to encourage you to switch. There are many professionals making a good living at giving a considered opinion on what to do with your money. Doctors differ and patients die comes to mind. During times of recession the urge to enact change of direction is more successful. People are focused on cost effectiveness in all parts of their lives when inflation is at such an all-time high but I would urge great caution. The American stock exchange is in a volatile phase. This will continue until the Federal Reserve System (Fed) gets the right balance of interest rate hikes. Their overriding focus is to reverse the upward inflation trends but how they do it is critical in its impacts on all things financial. Following the CNBC news channel, one can see the markets have not had much confidence in the actions of the Fed so far. Right now the markets feel that it is driving the economy into an imminent but deep recession. With the stock exchange losing money so too are the pension and investment portfolios. Similarly, as predicted, the ECB has raised the basic rate of interest by 2% over three recent meetings. I anticipate
TOWN TALK
WITH KEITH DOYLE they are not finished just yet. I expect another marginal rate rise in December and another in the spring. Tracker mortgages monthly repayments have instantly increased. The banks have stiffly resisted similar increases on their fixed and variable rates. This is to encourage customers off the Tracker mortgages running at over 3.5% and rising and on to short term fixed rates at approx. 2.9%. Sounds like a great deal. Variable rates stand at 4.5%. So why do I call for caution?
Do not forget the Tracker scandal examination by the Central Bank in 2019. They showed that over 40,000 customers were affected in a scheme to change their non-profit-making tracker contract terms in order for the banks to earn more profit. As a result over 100 customers lost their properties as they were not able to pay the increase in payments. Do not forget that the European Base Rate was at 4.5% in 2009 and 1.5% in 2006 and 0% in 2016. So when you are being ‘churned’ take stock of your own circumstances. How many years has your tracker to run? How long can you afford the increase in the monthly repayments? Have your pension or investments any dates in the future for a bonus? Are you likely to lose out on a favourable longevity clause? What is certain is this cycle will change. The only uncertainty is when. The short to medium forecast does tend to suggest that it will drag into the third quarter of next year in some format. Many factors will keep an unstable financial outlook. What is certain is when inflation recedes to under 4% the interest rates will quickly tumble. How many survivors of the tracker customers will then be left? Tracker mortgages, albeit a slimmed down club, will once again become king. n
4th November 2022 - Page 21
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Enniscorthy Community College Great range of courses available at Enniscorthy Community College. Check them out at: https://www.enniscorthyccfe.ie/prospectus/mobile/index.html n
ENNISCORTHY FÁILTE – WELCOMING UKRAINIAN REFUGEES
St. Patrick’s Christmas Fair Sunday 4th December 2022 St Patrick’s School, Enniscorthy, will be holding a Christmas Fair in the new school on December 4th. If you would like to put in a stall please contact Catherine Cloke on 086 4079966. n
CONTACT DETAILS: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthyfailte Email: enniscorthyfailte@gmail.com Tel: 087 3369907 (this number is not manned all the time so please leave a message if nobody answers straight away).
Oulart storytelling house back open Bygone Days Storytelling House in Oulart reopened, after a long closure, on the 11th July. A great welcome awaits all, with good music, songs, stories and plenty of craic, tea and refreshments served. Eircode: Y25 YP70. For details of upcoming events keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/byg onedayshouseofstories n
Enniscorthy Library events For upcoming Enniscorthy Library events see: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthylibrary Please book your place by contacting 053 9236055. n
County Development Plan The Wexford County Development Plan 2022-2028 was adopted by Wexford County Council on 13th June and came into effect on 25th July 2022. The Plan is available to view here https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/en/consultation/wexford-county-developmentplan-2022-2028 n
Page 22 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey NewS THE GREENS Any normal person looking at the Greens has to come to the conclusion that they are on a political suicide mission. Eamon Ryan has done more to antagonise the rural population at large than the entire urban membership of Dáil Éireann from all the other parties put together. Remember the wolves roaming the countryside, the 30 cars for a village of 300 people to be shared. Cycle or walk, imagine on a cold wet windy November morning walking three kilometres to find that all the cars were gone and the boss on the phone wondering where you were. That’s if you made it and weren’t eaten alive by the bloody hungry wolves in the meantime as you traversed our rural roads. That’s after the wolves had killed every bit of livestock in the country including our dogs and cats. Use public transport then says Eamon. We would if we had it. Then we have Green Minister Ossian Smyth telling young people that he thought that it was OK for them to throw cans of beans at works of art to highlight climate change issues. What planet is this guy on to think that he as a government minister should encourage law breaking by young people in furtherance of some cause. Did he stop and think of the consequences for those same young people who possibly would get a conviction in court for carrying out such an action? Did he advise them that such a conviction would jeopardise their careers in future or restrict their plans to travel abroad? Of course not, because people like him and Ryan open their mouths first and then don’t think later. The consequences won’t affect Ossian though. He’ll be OK.
View from the Centre
A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond generations of Dublin children, many of them now with children themselves, have enjoyed it. For many children it is their first opportunity to interact with live farm animals and it is an education in itself. Many people are distraught at this and believe that a wider agenda is in play here and fear that it is another effort by those of a particular minority view to remove symbols of the broader Christian faiths in Ireland. If this is the case, and I’m not suggesting that it is, it must be determined and called out. The bottom line is that the crib at Christmas is one of our religious traditions and no Lord Mayor of Dublin should be allowed
Apart from the futility of the action, Smyth didn’t think of the consequences for his own party members. A cursory glance at Twitter or other social media will show that many are now preparing to meet the Greens with cans of beans come the next election to make their displeasure known at Green policies. If it’s good enough for the Greens then it has to be good enough for those who oppose the Greens they argue. Ossian should realise that you reap what you sow. Then we have the Green Lord Mayor of Dublin Caroline Conroy banning the famous live crib from the Mansion House this year for what she describes as something more inclusive. The live crib tradition is now over 30 years old and
Minister Ossian Smyth
remove it. After all, Cromwell didn’t succeed so why should this woman be allowed to. Let’s hope that by the time you read this that the idiotic decision of Dublin’s Green Lord Mayor will have been reversed.
AN BORD PLEANÁLA The situation in An Bord Pleanála is shocking. The fact that criminal charges have been laid against an individual prevents nothing other than general comment. It would appear that almost all judicial review actions taken against the Bord will be conceded. This seems to be an acceptance by it that these decisions are difficult to defend. The annoying thing about this is the expense that people and businesses have been put to and the delay which projects have faced. Project costs will have increased enormously during the delayed period which may make some of them no longer viable. It is a shambles which obviously must never be allowed happen again.
THE NORTHERN ASSEMBLY It is appalling that the Northern Assembly is once again brought to a halt by a group, the DUP, which represents approximately 250,000 people out of a UK population of over 67m. This small group is literally holding the British taxpayer to ransom because despite the fact that they refuse to sit in the assembly they continue to draw their salaries of £55k each. If the British taxpayers were aware of the billions that they were pouring into Northern Ireland, particularly now during times of austerity, they would beg us in the Republic to take the place off their hands. The question then would be “Do we want it?” Nooo I hear most people scream, we need it like we need a hole in the head. Over the years, nationalists in the North criticised, with justification, successive Irish governments for their lack of interest in northern affairs from the 1930s to the 1970s in particular. However, looking back on it from this remove, leaders like DeValera and Lemass etc probably understood that the burden of a united Ireland with a sizeable minority of unionists refusing to co-operate would actually have brought this state down. Even today, despite us being members of the EU from where we would expect help, it is doubtful that we could afford a United Ireland. The question is when will a future UK government decide that it cannot afford to keep propping up this place which most British people know or care little about. n
4th November 2022 - Page 23
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Bridging the gap!
The pedestrian bridge over the Urrin at the Prom in Enniscorthy which has recently been repaired and resurfaced at a cost of €2,000.
While everyone is glad to see the footbridge over the Urrin at The Prom open again, allowing access to the Country Walk – the most used walk in Co. Wexford, many were critical of the supposed repair cost of €80,000 – a figure that appeared in the public domain shortly after the bridge was damaged on 19th September in an act of vandalism.
"Wexford County Council has confirmed to me that the cost of these interim works came to €2,000 and not €80,000 as stated elsewhere. I want to commend the Wexford County Council staff for their prompt work in getting the bridge back open within six weeks at a reasonable cost to the taxpayer. "Of course, there are further plans to add to the charm of this fantastic local amenity. Works are expected to get underway next year on a new accessible access route under the railway bridge. This will make the walking trail accessible for anyone with a buggy, wheelchair or mobility issues. Government funding of €49,500 was allocated towards these works earlier this year.
Enniscorthy Municipal District Chairperson Cllr Aidan Browne felt obliged to address the supposed cost in the immediate aftermath of the repair work being carried out at an actual cost of €2,000! In a statement issued on 26th October 2022, Cllr Browne says: "Enniscorthy Promenade Walk is a fantastic asset for our local community. Locals and tourists alike really enjoy taking a walk by the River Slaney and taking in the scenic beauty of the area. "In mid-September, I was disappointed to learn that damage forced the closure of the walk as the steps on the footbridge over the River Urrin were dam-
Page 24 - 4th November 2022
Cllr. Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District.
aged. This was a blow for the community and so, as Chairperson of the Enniscorthy Municipal District, I immediately worked with Enniscorthy Municipal District officials to get the bridge back open to the public.
"As Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District, I am determined to do my best in serving the people of the town and district. It is a great honour to serve my community and I believe in promoting the town and further exploring ways to promote growth within our town, villages and the local economy as a whole", Cllr Browne concluded. n
SlaNey NewS
A new Safe Cycle Park for Enniscorthy A new Safe Cycling Park could be in place in Enniscorthy as early as the end of this year. The park will allow for children to develop safe cycling skills in a safe and realistic environment. It will be developed by Wexford County Council in the overflow carpark opposite the Enniscorthy Sports Hub at Cherry Orchard. This carpark is used by people attending the Sports Hub and also the Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA). The cycle park, when developed, can still be used for overflow parking on those occasions when the sports hub or ECA need extra parking. Council Chairman Aidan Browne has been busy working behind the scenes on this project for a number of months along with Town Manager Ger Mackey and the town engineer. Cllr Browne says, "This will be a great asset for children in our town." Our images show a typical example of a Safe Cycle Park along with a drawing of the proposed Enniscorthy facility. n
Above: What a typical Safe Cycle Park looks like. Below: The proposed Cycle Park layout by Wexford County Council.
4th November 2022 - Page 25
SlaNey SlaNeyadS ad
A SPOT HERE CAN BE YOURS FROM €20
HILLTOP DRY CLEANERS
Duffry Hill, Enniscorthy, 053-9233893
EXCLUSIVE AGENTS FOR MARLOWE DRY CLEANERS WE HAVE A FULL LAUNDRY SERVICE Easy to use
Rent the RugDoctor
DOYLE
HEARING SOLUTIONS
Audiology - Hearing Aids Micro suction wax removal Audiologist of the year winner 3 Slaney Place, Enniscorthy, Y21 W4C9 Tel: 053 92 52111 www.doylehearingsolutions.com Facebook: Doyle Hearing Solutions ra; Naíon h s i r I age Langu ool h c Pres a l “Cúp l”! i Foca
ECCE SCHEME
Clean your own… Carpets Upholstery, Rugs Car Interiors
Great Value! Traffic-stopping content...for your business! ★ SEO-optimised website content ★ Unique product descriptions ★ Expert article writing ★ Top quality blog content for your business
Discover how Copywriting by Changing Lanes can help bring more traffic to your website and connect you with more customers for your products and services. Professional copywriting and editorial services based in Co. Wexford. Phone: 087-7946277. Email: caroline@changinglanes.ie
: Within oil c Gaels r thaidh, ó Inis C oold, g Drum or thy. c is n n E
G
087 0951019 ECCE Có & NCS Scheme
This size ad can be yours for just €20+vat. Telephone Frank at 087-2403310 for more details.
FOOD Contact: Claudia Blaess 086 0752561 info@enniscorthycounselling.ie www.enniscorthycounselling.ie Facebook: Enniscorthy Counselling Appointments available: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday evenings, and all day Wednesdays and Saturdays. Offering phone, zoom and in-person sessions. Working with teenagers (from 13 years of age), adults and couples.
Page 26 - 4th November 2022
FOCUS
Clonhaston, Enniscorthy Contact Billy at (087) 2749493 Fresh Chicken Whole Chickens Fillets Kievs Maryland Mexican Wraps Turkey Breast _____________________________________________________ PARTY FOOD: Goujons, Wedges, Chips, Cocktail Sausages, Prawns in Filo Pastry, Chicken Drumsticks, Mini Spring Rolls _____________________________________________________ BARBECUE: SteakBurgers, Chicken Kebabs, Sausages _____________________________________________________
And many more items at wholesale prices
✔ Focus on Quality… ✔ Focus on Service… ✔ Focus on Value…
SlaNey adS
+VAT PER ISSUE. CALL 087-2403310. GUTTERS, FASCIA & SOFFIT Cleaned and Repaired Contact John 086-3298522
Memorial Cards available at
C&R PRINT Templeshannon Quay, Enniscorthy
Call us on 053 9235295
54 Wafer Street Enniscorthy Y21 K0F2 Tel: 085 8581526 Click here to find us on Facebook
Call us for all your alteration needs No job is too big or small for our expert dressmakers Fabrics, Zips, Interface and Elastic available in store
ENNISCORTHY ENGINEERING & FABRICATION ENQUIRIES WELCOME ● Gates - Railings ● Welding & Repairs ● ● Mild Steel ● Stainless Fabrication ● ● General Engineering ● Enniscorthy Engineering & Fabrication Rockview, Ballyorrill, Enniscorthy Phone Mick McGrath: 087 9392624 Email: mickmcgrathjnr@gmail.com ● New website: www.enniscorthyengineering.ie ●
4th November 2022 - Page 27
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Cathedral Street killings On 10th October 1922, two Free State soldiers, stationed with the garrison at Enniscorthy Castle, Commandant Peter Doyle and Captain Thomas Doyle (not related) attended a Mission given by the Vincentian Fathers at St. Aidan’s Cathedral, after which they were both mortally wounded at No.21 Main Street, with Peter Doyle dying from his wounds the following day and Thomas Doyle passing to his eternal reward eight days later. Another tragic incident in Wexford’s Civil War. On Sunday 9th October 2022, the two soldiers were prayed for at the 10oc Mass in the Cathedral on the one hundred anniversary of their death. Dan Doyle and Jim McGrath, both nephews of the deceased, laid wreaths for their uncles at No.21, then the Ballindaggin Pipe Band, led re-enactors, dignitaries, family, and well wishers to the Castle where Historian-in-Residence with Wexford Libraries Barry Lacey gave a detailed and informative account of the terrible incident, and others that took place in our town and county during the worst period of our history. Members of both families who organised the moving and dignified event adjourned to Marshalstown and Ballindaggin cemeteries later in the day to lay commemorative plaques on the graves. – Words and pics by Maria Nolan
Page 28 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey NewS
Wexford Co. Council to increase Local Property Tax by 5% for 2023 At the October Meeting of Wexford County Council, Members of the Council voted to apply a 15% Local Adjustment factor to the Local Property Tax in County Wexford for 2 years. This represents an increase of 5% over the 10% local adjustment factor applied in 2022. Changes in the Local Property Tax charging model led to the consolidation of Property Valuation Bands which has resulted in almost all County Wexford properties falling into the first three LPT valuation bands, following the Revaluation completed for 2022, with: 49.3% of properties in Band 1 27.4% of properties in Band 2 16.3% of properties in Band 3 The consolidation of the property bands has seen approx. 14% of properties move into a lower LPT band and as a result the property owners will pay less Local Property Tax annually. This movement has also resulted in a reduction of over €900k in the overall annual yield from LPT in County Wexford. The decision made by the Council to apply a 15% Local Adjustment factor will have the impact on the LPT Charges in 2023 and 2024 as shown in the accompanying tables. Wexford County Council says that, "The decision approved by Members will secure continued funding for the Economic & Community Development Programme for the County which is delivering new and improved amenities together with providing infrastructure to attract employment and economic activity into the County. Projects already delivered include Min Ryan Park, Wexford; Gorey Park; High Hill Norman Garden in New Ross; Kilmore Link Road; South East Greenway and other amenity, trails and footpath developments throughout the County together with a new Fire Station in New Ross, Enniscorthy Technology Park, Gorey Hatch Lab, and many other projects planned and progressing.
“The additional 5% included in the Members’ decision will provide funding for smaller, more localised projects which will be delivered in each Municipal District over the next two years."n
It’s in the blood! Oulart native Professor Patrick Prendergast shows off his hurling prowess at the recent launch of SETU – the South East Technological University. Dr Prendergast is the Chairman of the new university. See full story on pages 42. Pic: Mary Browne.
4th November 2022 - Page 29
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Enniscorthy park needs more peace While vandalism in Enniscorthy has never gone away, it seems to be particularly apparent in recent months. A number of high profile acts of vandalism have been perpetrated at the former premises of St Patrick’s School on Bohreen Hill and on the footbridge over the Urrin at The Prom. In addition, Bernard O’Leary of St. Aidan’s Residents’ Association has been continuously highlighting vandalism and anti-social behaviour at the grotto at Moran Park (see accompanying piece from the ‘Enniscorthy Guardian’). The latest cause for concern centres around the Orchard Peace Park and was the subject of discussion at the October meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District, with EMD Manager Ger Mackey admitting that anti-social behaviour is “out of hand” there particularly after the park closes in the evenings. CCTV will be installed there shortly, and the local Gardaí have confirmed their willingness to issue Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs). Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy spoke about the need for more lighting in the park; Cllr Cathal Byrne recommended better signage around town to get more people using the park; Cllr Jackser Owens wants the surface at the Dunnes
GRAVESIDE PRAYERS AND REMEMBRANCE DURING NOVEMBER During November, as the Church of Ireland traditionally remembers those who have died, there are plans to hold prayers in each of the five Enniscorthy and Monart Union graveyards. The families of those who are buried in the graveyards are invited to go along and give thanks for their lives. Sunday 6th November: Monart graveyard, directly after the 10.15am service. Sunday 6th November: The Moyne graveyard at 2.00pm.
end of the park repaired to make it more user-friendly. In general, the councillors believe that greater use of the park by the general public will lessen its attractiveness for anti-social behaviour. A combination of CCTV, more lighting, Garda presence, and greater use by the general public will together hopefully sort out the current problems there. n
Saturday 12th November: Clone graveyard, directly after the 7.00pm service. Sunday 13th November: Templescoby graveyard, directly after 9.30am service Sunday 13th November: Clonmore graveyard at 2.00pm. n
Rev. Nicola Halford, Rector of Enniscorthy and Monart Union of Parishes
Page 30 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey NewS
As part of the Wexford Sláintecare Healthy Communities Programme, Wexford County Council has just signed contracts for a number of playground and outdoor exercise equipment projects. This funding is supporting a number of projects in the county including: n Outdoor calisthenics equipment in The Rocks, Maudlintown, Wexford Town. n New playground in Oilgate.
n Resurfacing, cleaning and painting of play equipment and new accessible carousel at Taghmon playground. n Access works and new accessible carousel at Ferndale playground. n New accessible carousel at Fair Green playground, Enniscorthy. Work on these projects is expected to be completed early in 2023. n
Green light for Ballindaggin extension Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne T.D. has said that initial project approval has been granted for an extension project for St. Colman’s N.S. in Ballindaggin consisting of one mainstream classroom and an accessible toilet. ‘I wish to commend the staff of St. Colman’s N.S. for their hard work and I’m sure this extension will greatly benefit the wider school community. I will continue to work with Minister Foley to ensure the delivery of this extension project,’ Minister Browne concluded. n
4th November 2022 - Page 31
SlaNey SlaNey SNapS ad
Halloween at Carraig Briste
Top: Anna, Hannah, Lauren, Molly and Orlagh. Above: Ruby. Left: Kyran, Luka, Luke, Orlagh and Clodagh. Top: Carraig Briste Early Years Playschool Halloween Party. Orlagh Doyle, proprietor, with some of the Forest Class. Above left: Ned with Orlagh. Left: Harley the Pirate. Below left: Seamie, Orlagh, Pippa, Tony and Harry.
Page 32 - 4th November 2022
Above: The Spruce Room. Left: The Beech Room. Below left: Kaia, Aoife, Orlagh, Louise, Teddy and Sophie. Below centre: Kate and Conor. Below right: Elsie in her Peppa Pig outfit.
SlaNey SNapS
e and Killegney Early Years
Above left: Witch River on the swing. Above right: The Chestnut Room. Below left: Some of the Holly Room with Nicole and Orlagh. Below right: Ruben, Orlagh, Zoe and River.
Top: Killegney Early Years Playschool Halloween Party. Orlagh Doyle (proprietor) in the babies room with LouieBeu and her little sister Lucielle and Ann Marie. Above: Ollie on the swing. Below: Oral, Mick, Alex, Emma and Joan. Bottom: The party was in full swing in the Oak Room.
Left: The Killegney House of Stories. Above: Tara the Witch and her apprentice. Below left: Maeve, Fiadh and Finn. Below right: Babies room, Síofra, Orlagh and Jack.
4th November 2022 - Page 33
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
LGBQTIA+ community events A successful Queer Halloween 1990s Dance Party extravaganza was held by Wexford Pride on Friday 28th of October at the IFA Centre Enniscorthy – a night of 90's tunes, spot prizes for the best dressed, a fundraising raffle, and surprises! Entry was free on the night but donations were appreciated with all proceeds going directly toward funding future Dr Noel Wexford Pride events, includCulleton ing its Pride Picnic in The Park 2023. LGBQTIA+ Community Support Group (Monday 14th November) in IFA Centre, Enniscorthy. The Group says: “Our LGBQTIA+ Community Support Group returns on Monday 14th November. The group runs from 7PM at the IFA Enniscorthy and is open to LGBQTIA+ individuals or those who are questioning their identity. This is a safe and confidential space where members can come together and support one another in their experiences as LGBQTIA+ and questioning. Name tags are handed out and each person is encouraged to use the name and pronouns that they identify with – all members must respect your identity. When the name badges come off and you return to the outside world the knowledge of who
you were in our room will stay just between the attendees. This is something that we take very seriously. It is of the utmost importance that you feel safe and confident to join our group – and we welcome you with open arms! Participants are welcome to stim, move, stretch, stand up, take time outs, as needed. Colouring books and fidgets will be available for those who need them. Coffee, tea, vegan biscuits, gf biscuits, and conventional biscuits will all be provided for free. Cups, sugar, milk, etc will also be provided. Every segment of the LGBTQIA+ community is welcome. This includes BIPOC, Traveller & Roma, and immigrant groups. No racism will be tolerated. Unfortunately, our current room is not wheelchair accessible. If you have
any accessibility needs please don’t hesitate to contact us at Wexford PRIDE.” Coffee On The Quay (Sunday 6th and 20th November, 2pm, Talbot Hotel). The Group says: “Just because the days are getting shorter and darker doesn't mean we can't continue to show our pride! Our Coffee On The Quay continues this month, with our new indoor location at the Talbot Hotel. Beat those autumn blues and cosy up to a warm beverage in a safe and welcoming space. These Sunday meet-ups are a great opportunity to meet other local LGBQTIA+ folks and decompress after a busy week!” You can find more updates here: https://www.facebook.com/events/7353 19374486167/799786731372764 n
Beneath My Angels Wings Beneath My Angels Wings is an organisation supporting families who have lost their beloved children. It held a memorial service in St Mary’s Church, Enniscorthy, on international day of remembrance, 10th October. Cllr John O’Rourke, Chairman of the organisation, on behalf of Beneath My Angels Wings, sincerely thanked Rev Nicola Halford for her ministry on the evening and all who participated with the liturgy and music on the day. Special thanks, he said, to Linda O’Rourke and St Senan’s Choir, and Conor Kenny for his music programme on the evening. And thanks also to soloists Chris O’Brien and Maureen Walsh.
Cllr John O’Rourke
“The evening brought support, comfort and togetherness for all who attended and highlighted the fact that support at a local level is always present. Plans are now in place for 2023,” Cllr O’Rourke concluded. n
Page 34 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey SNapS
‘Selskar 18’ book launch
Above left: At the launch of the book ‘Selskar 18’ at Wexford County Council on 11th October were Liam Gaul and Denise MurphyO’Connor. Above right: Former Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council John Roche with present Cathaoirleach George Lawlor.
Above left: Michael Freeman (publisher) with John Roche. Above right: Attendees at the launch.
Some of the authors of the book at the launch L-R: Pat Hackett, Helen Corish-Wilde, John Nangle, Willie French and Liam Turner.
4th November 2022 - Page 35
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Above: Author Tom Miller. Below: Tony Fagan, co-author and researcher.
The Guards – Policing County Wexford 1922 -2022: The Guards, a beautifully illustrated history of the Garda Siochana in Wexford from their formation in 1922 to present day, was launched in the Ferrycarrig Hotel recently by Mr. Liam Griffin whose own father came to Rosslare as a Guard and was one of the first of the force in Wexford. Lovingly written and laboriously researched by two well known retired Gardaí, Tony Fagan and Tom Miller, who put ten years of their lives into this meticulously detailed record of policing in County Wexford over the past 100 years. MC for the event Michael Doyle of South East Radio spoke to both men about their lives and times in the force and their memories and experiences since taking up their positions in the County in the 1960s, before introducing Three Sisters Press Editor Michael Freeman to say a few words and Liam Griffin to officially launch the publication which chronicles the names, ranks, numbers, stations and start dates of every member to serve in Wexford from 1922 to 2022. A mammoth task and a truly momentous piece of Wexford history, with a wealth of comprehensive information, a treasure trove of data and material for the generations to come, available in all good bookstores nationwide.
Author Tom Miller with Tony Fagan, co-author and researcher. Pic: Maria Nolan.
Page 36 - 4th November 2022
Tom and Tony were thrilled with the opportunity to reminisce with many old friends and comrades among the large attendance which included Minister James Browne, Paul Kehoe TD, Councillors Kathleen Codd-Nolan, Pip Breen, Joe O’Sullivan and Verona Murphy TD, along with a message of good wishes from Garda Commissioner Drew Harris who was unable to attend. – Words & Pics by Maria Nolan
SlaNey NewS
Above L-R: Michael Freeman (publisher), Tom Miller (author), Michael Doyle (MC), Verona Murphy TD, Tony Fagan (author), Liam Griffin (officially launched the book). Below left: Maria Nolan with Minister James Browne TD. Below right: Cllrs Pip Breen and Joe O’Sullivan with Minister James Browne TD. Bottom right: Maria Nolan with author Tom Miller. All pics courtesy of Maria Nolan.
Liam Griffin, in launching the book The Guards by Tom Miller and Tony Fagan, spoke about the murder of his childhood hero, Detective Garda Seamus Quaid, who he said was a beautiful hurler, something like the Hopper McGrath and Tim Flood of Wexford and Sean Clohessy of Kilkenny, who had great style and was an absolute gentleman and who had helped with the funeral of his own father, the late Garda Michael Griffin of Rosslare. Mr Griffin said: “I’m absolutely delighted to see a photograph of him and the whole story of Seamus Quaid who was murdered in October 1980.” Mr Griffin then went on to be highly critical of the IRA and Sinn Féin and leading figures in those organisations. His views have been widely reported elsewhere in both national and local media. The attendance of more than 200 people at the launch in the Ferrycarrig Hotel included Dr Mary Staines, granddaughter of the first Garda Commissioner Michael Staines, Garda Donal Lyttleton, colleague of Detective Garda Seamus Quaid on the night he was murdered, former Garda Assistant Commissioner Fintan Fanning, Minister James Browne TD, Paul Kehoe TD and Verona Murphy TD. n
4th November 2022 - Page 37
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Standing room only at the launch of
The Guards – Policing County Wexford 1922 -2022 by Tom Miller and Tony Fagan
It was standing room only in the main function room of the Ferrycarrig Hotel on 24th October for the launch of ‘The Guards – Policing County Wexford 19222022’ by Tom Miller and Tony Fagan. Above left: Standing room only. Above right: Niall Maher, Paul Kehoe TD and Dan Redmond. Left: Seamus Keevans, Mary O’Brien and Barbara Browrigg. Right: Michael Freeman (Three Sisters Press), Tom Miller (author), Michael Doyle (South East Radio), Verona Murphy TD, Tony Fagan (author) and Liam Griffin who launched the book on behalf of the authors. Below left: Liam Griffin, Caroline and Eamonn Quaid and Donal Lyttleton. Below right: Tom Dunphy, Ray Quigley and Des Croke.
Page 38 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey NewS
Top left: Greg Walsh, Michael Freeman (Three Sisters Press, publishers), Declan Lyons, Dr. Mary Staines (granddaughter of the first Garda Commissioner Michael Staines), Liam Griffin who launched the book and Josie Van Embden (editorial). Top right: Denis Whelan and Dan Redmond. Above left: Davy Fitzgerald and Willie Kehoe. Above right: Chief Superintendant Anthony Pettit, Cllr Pip Breen, John Coady, Michael Hylane and Eddie Breen. Right: Martin Broaders, Alan Maher and John G Murphy, solicitor. Below left: Maria Nolan, Liam Griffin, Michael Freeman. Below centre: Bernie McCawl and Pat Sheehan. Below right: Murty Ambrose and Ray Cullanane.
4th November 2022 - Page 39
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Lack of dentists in New Ross Sinn Féin New Ross area rep Marie Doyle and Sinn Féin TD Johnny Mythen have raised concerns at reports that there are no dentists taking on patients with medical cards in the New Ross area.
This is an appalling situation that needs
Speaking on the issue, Sinn Féin area rep Marie Doyle said, “I have been contacted by many people in New Ross highlighting the lack of dentists that accept medical cards.
have tabled questions to the Minister
“Last week one woman who was in severe pain had contacted me looking for assistance as she couldn't afford to pay private fees. This is just one of several similar stories we have heard over the last while.
to be addressed urgently.” Sinn Féin TD for Co. Wexford Deputy Johnny Mythen added, “Issues with access to dentists for those with a medical card are ongoing in the county. I for Health on this, given the urgent nature of the problem. “People cannot be left suffering in pain with nowhere to go. More must be done to recruit and retain dentists on Johnny Mythen TD
“When I contacted the Wexford health centre for the list of dentists available in New Ross they told me there are none.
Dermot says ‘Halo’ RTÉ star, architect Dermot Bannon, was in Camolin on 1st October to help Halo Tiles celebrate its 50th year in business. Bannon is well known nationwide for his role as host of the popular RTÉ series ‘Room to Improve’. Visitors and staff also enjoyed a delicious barbeque as part of the celebrations. Patrick Doyle of Halo Tiles was delighted that over 200 people joined the celebrations at the store’s state-of-the-art showroom, and were able to meet Dermot in person and pick up some tips on design, home layouts, lighting etc and enjoy an extensive and informative presentation by him. Mr Bannon was very generous with his time and did not leave until he had spoken to everyone who wished to consult with him. The week prior to Mr Bannon’s visit over 750 children attended at the Halo Tiles Wexford GAA Centre of Excellence for a monster blitz as part of the company’s ongoing celebrations. Below left: Patrick Doyle and family. Below right: Kevin Kavanagh, Michael Bridgeman, Patrick Tonks, Tom Coen, Patrick Doyle, Dermot Bannon, Edwina Redmond, Denise Farrell, Paddy Toland. n
Page 40 - 4th November 2022
the Dental Treatment Service Scheme. “I will be watching this situation closely and will continue to raise this with the Minister.” n
SlaNey NewS
Protecting Dublin- Major funding Rosslare rail line for Co. Wexford
Minister James Browne TD
Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD has welcomed the contractual agreement between Irish Rail and Jacobs to help defend sections of the Rosslare to Dublin railway line from coastal erosion and flooding.
Welcoming the news, Minister Browne outlined how Jacobs “will now work on the design, planning and environmental assessments related to the East Coast Railway Infrastructure Protection Projects programme. These works seek to boost the coastal resilience to defend the railway infrastructure from further coastal erosion. “Over the next seven years, projects will be completed on a phased basis. It’s important that the County Wexford coastline, especially at Ballygeary near Rosslare, receives careful attention to the railway lines’ environmental sensitivities. I will certainly continue to work on this important matter with my Government colleagues”, Minister Browne concluded n
Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD has confirmed that €7.3 million has been allocated for 2023-2027 funding for County Wexford. The major investment will support locally-led rural development and enterprise projects over the next five years. Welcoming the confirmation of funding, Minister Browne outlined how “the LEADER Programme has made a real difference to locally-led projects in County Wexford's communities. LEADER's greatest strength lies in its ground-up approach; local communities are empowered to deliver projects that will revitalise our towns and villages. Today, I’m delighted to confirm that County Wexford organisations interested in supporting the roll-out of the 2023-2027 LEADER County Wexford funding allocation of €7.3 million can now express their interest to the Department of Rural and Community Development. "Since becoming a Government Minister of State, I have continuously raised the importance of investment in County Wexford communities through the LEADER programme with my Government colleagues, including Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys T.D. Today marks another milestone of the Government's commitment to supporting County Wexford's rural communities into the future", Minister Browne concluded. n
WLD prioritises social enterprises Social enterprises are businesses that work primarily to improve the lives of people. Their core objective is to achieve a social, societal, or environmental impact.
Wexford County Council launched a new online payment portal on 27th September, 2022. The portal will allow customers for Commercial Rates, Housing Rents, Mortgages, Fire Charges, Marina Fees & Planning Development Levies to view and pay their account online. Visit: https://wexfordcoco.myselfserv.ie/ n
Wexford Local Development is committed to the development of this sector and have recently appointed Helena Dempsey as Social Enterprise Development Officer. Helena’s 17 year’s experience in community and enterprise development will greatly contribute to the future of the Social Enterprise sector in County Wexford. Contact Helena on 087 1737502 or e-mail hdempsey@wld.ie n
Helena Dempsey
4th November 2022 - Page 41
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
SETU Launch South East Technological University (SETU) is a truly regional university, with campuses across the south east in Carlow, Waterford and Wexford, as well as a presence in Kilkenny and Wicklow. Bringing together over 50 years of experience in higher education, research, innovation and stakeholder collaboration, today SETU serves over 18,000 students and employs over 1,500 staff with ambitions to grow over the next 10 years. The university’s research performance already shines in Ireland and internationally and provides a strong platform for future development. SETU brings together over 550 researchers, several research centres and four Technology Gateways and will expand the range and quality of research to meet the needs of the south east. Over the five years from 2016 to 2020 alone, researchers from SETU have successfully attracted over €95m in research funding from a variety of European and national funding agencies, state bodies and industrial partners.
SETU sets ambition to build a leading European university delivering educational, economic and societal transformation for the south east. Pictured are the Members of the SETU Executive Management team L-R: Kathryn Kiely, Dr. Richard Hayes, Dr. Mark White, Simon Harris TD, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Prof Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, Elaine Sheridan, Dr. Derek O’Byrne and Dr. Peter McLoughlin. Photograph: Patrick Browne
On 24 October 2022, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris TD was joined by staff, students and stakeholders to officially launch South East Technological University (SETU). Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Harris said, “I’m delighted to be here today to officially open South East Technological University. This is a University designed by staff, students and the people of the south east over decades. “SETU is a university for the region but it can have a national and global reach. The vision has become a reality. I look forward to supporting Ireland’s newest university become a central part of our higher education landscape.”
Page 42 - 4th November 2022
Prof Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, spoke of the ambition for the new university, saying, “The creation of South East Technological University, our new university in the south east of Ireland, has the potential to be the singlemost transformative initiative in the region in several generations. “SETU will put knowledge creation and learning at the heart of the region which will facilitate regional development economically, socially and culturally. “Today, not only do we launch our new university, we also officially launch the development of our first strategic plan which will reflect our ambitions to be a leading European technological university, embedded in the south east and committed to working with, and delivering for, our partners and communities
across the region, Ireland and the world.” In the short time since its creation, South East Technological University has already set out its ambition to be a leading European university, with a strong international reputation and an increasing impact on the economy, society and culture of the south east of Ireland. To deliver on its ambitions, SETU is developing its first Strategic Plan. A consultation process has already begun with staff and students, the views of the external community are being sought also. Industry, research collaborators, schools, community groups, teachers, parents, alumni and the general public can all input into the university’s future.
SlaNey NewS
Prof Veronica Campbell, President of SETU (pictured below) spoke of the ambition for the new university, saying, “The creation of South East Technological University, our new university in the south east of Ireland, has the potential to be the single-most transformative initiative in the region in several generations. Minister Simon Harris said: ”I look forward to supporting Ireland’s newest university to become a central part of our higher education landscape.”
Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne T.D. has welcomed the official launch of South East Technological University (SETU). Speaking from the launch at the SETU Waterford campus, Minister Browne praised the college staff and his Government colleagues for their work on bringing the technology university’s creation to fruition. “This is a fantastic day for the south-east. Bringing two institutes of technology under the one umbrella marks a significant departure for third level education in the south east. Many students in the south east will now benefit from an excellent college education as they attend a technological university with strong academic credentials. This rigorous standard will really help County Wexford and the south east; businesses will see the launch of the technological university as a massive economic driver for our region. “I will continue to work with my Government colleagues towards the further development of SETU’s campus in Wexford town”, Minister Browne said.
SETU is currently in the process of engaging with different representative groups but all are encouraged to submit thoughts and ideas through the university website at www.setu.ie/strategy or by email to strategy@setu.ie. SETU Governing Body Chair Prof Patrick Prendergast said, “Today we proudly announce to the world that our new University is here and we are ready to take on the challenges of building a
university that will deliver for the south east through cutting-edge educational programmes, advanced research and societal engagement. “I'm personally delighted to be celebrating this occasion with our students and staff, and with all who have a stake in the success of SETU - civic leadership throughout the south east, industry collaborators, higher education colleagues and the wider networks of SETU supporters throughout the region. It is to-
gether that we are strongest and together that we will build a truly great European technological university.” The official SETU launch included a programme of speeches, panel discussions and an Expo which took place at both the SETU Arena, Waterford, and the Kilkenny Road campus, Carlow. The full ceremony was live streamed across the University’s campuses, online and on SETU’s social media channels.n
4th November 2022 - Page 43
SlaNey SlaNey SNapS ad
A ‘hearty’ welcome
The Enniscorthy Delightful Dollies gave a hearty welcome to nurse Brigid Sinnott from the Irish Heart Foundation who gave a seminar on heart health at the Delightful Dollies HQ in Bellefield GAA Complex on 12th October 2022.
Page 44 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey NewS
Welcome for community funding Sixteen community groups in Co. Wexford have received funding under the new Government Community Centre Investment Fund announced last month, and welcomed by Minister James Browne and Senator Malcolm Byrne.
“These are grants to hardworking committees to improve facilities at community halls. I know how hard they work and these supports will help with renovations or new facilities. Well done to all involved,” said Senator Byrne.
According to Minister Browne: “The Community Centre Investment Fund represents the largest single investment in community centres in decades. I’m delighted that 16 County Wexford organisations will benefit from today’s funding announcement. “My Government colleagues and I will seek to ensure that applications lodged for further larger scale projects in County Wexford receive full consideration in the coming weeks,” Minister Browne concluded. n
Senator Malcolm Byrne
Farmers 4 Safety Farmers4Safety – Managing Risk Together EIP-AGRI Project held a talk in Tír na Nóg in Wellingtonbridge on 27th of September on all things related to Farm Safety, Health and Wellbeing. Farmers4Safety – Managing Risk Together EIP AGRI project adopts a ‘peer to peer’ mentoring approach that investigates farmers, and farm families behaviours and attitudes towards farm safety, health and wellbeing and changes the norm around farm safety and emotional wellbeing so it becomes a normal and sustained part of farming culture in Ireland while making the sector safer for those who live, work and visit farms. By utilising a peer-to-peer mentoring approach it will effectively engage farmers on the ground and be the catalyst to change the social norms surrounding farm safety, health and wellbeing.
ject indicates the importance of farmers looking after their own health and wellbeing and ensuring they are not risking their safety in carrying out jobs on the farm.
Irish Rural Link (IRL) in partnership with the BRIDE (Biodiversity Regeneration in a Dairying Environment) project, the Duncannon Blue Flag Farming & Communities Scheme, the New Futures Farming Group, and the Health and Safety Authority are carrying out this piloted project in their catchment areas.
Niamh Nolan, Project Manager, said: ‘This event highlighted the diverse safety measures that farmers can take on farms to make it a safer place for them but also their family, friends and employees. It also highlighted the importance of looking after their health and wellbeing in order to complete jobs on the farm. By organising this event we hope to raise awareness of farm safety, health and wellbeing’
The majority of farm fatalities/injuries on farms are avoidable and this project will highlight the importance of farm safety, health and wellbeing on family farms. Extreme pressures within the agriculture sector has led to farmers experiencing stress, anxiety, fatigue and financial pressures and this in turn can lead to an incident/fatality occurring. This Farm Safety EIP AGRI pro-
Anyone wanting to find out more information about Farmers4Safety - Managing Risk Together EIP AGRI Project can check out their online social media platforms. Twitter: https://twitter.com/Farmers4Safety. Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Farmers4Safety/ and their website on www.farmers4safety.ie n
4th November 2022 - Page 45
SlaNey SlaNey SNapS ad
Official visit by Minister Hum
Minister Heather Humphreys and Cathaoirleach of Rosslare Municipal District Cllr Lisa McDonald.
Eimear and Jack Druhan and Brendan Breslin.
Lillian and Richard Davis with Bishop of Ferns Ger Nash.
L-R: Cllr. Frank Staples, Minister Heather Humphreys, Paul Kehoe TD, Brendan Howlin TD, Cllr Ger Carthy, Senator Malcolm Byrne.
Page 46 - 4th November 2022
Gathering for Minister Heather Humphrey Community Centre, Playground and Tourism
Minister Heathe
Having a chat – Anne Carthy, Peg Ellard and Anne Hearne with Cllr Lisa McDonald.
SlaNey SNapS
mphreys to Our Lady’s Island
ys TD to officially open Our Lady’s Island m Interpretive Centre on 6th October 2022.
er Humphreys meets Lar Doyle and Dessie White.
h
Members of the Danescastle Music Group entertain the crowd at the official opening of Our Lady’s Island Community Centre, Playground and Tourism Interpretive Centre by Minister Heather Humphreys on 6th October 2022.
Above left: Minister Heather Humphreys meets Chair of Our Lady’s Island Community Development Association (OLICDA) Cllr Ger Carthy and his family. Above right: Minister James Browne TD addresses the audience.
Minister Heather Humphreys with staff member Mary Hegarty.
John Browne, Minister Humphreys and Paul Kehoe TD.
Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council Cllr George Lawlor.
4th November 2022 - Page 47
SlaNey SlaNey SNapS ad
Coláiste Bríde Reunion The Coláiste Bríde Class of 1982 held a reunion night recently in The Bailey, Enniscorthy. A fabulous night was had by all as they danced and chatted the night away.
Back row L-R: Margaret Murphy, Claire Nolan, Trish Hyland, Bernie Kelly. Front row L-R: Christina Meyler, Sr. Ella, Jimmy Guinan and Sr. Elizabeth.
Page 48 - 4th November 2022
A bouquet of flowers was presented to Sr. Ella, Sr. Elizabeth, Sr. Demonfort (who couldn't make it on the night) and a decanter set to teacher Jimmy Guinan.
SlaNey SNapS
Above left: Helen Pierce and Fiona Leacy. Above centre: Kathleen Kavanagh and Majella O’Donoghoe. Above right: Tina Foley and Maureen Cordon.
Above left: Looking at old photos were Margaret Dumahas, Linda Thackberry, Jasmine Kavanagh and Maura Dagg. Above right: Organising Committee Bernadette O’Brien, Trish Hyland, Claire Nolan, Christine Dobbs and Margaret Booth. Missing was Pauline Doyle.
Above left: “Spotting myself” was Barbara Mythen. Above centre: Anne Smith and Kathleen Carthy. Above right: Teresa McKeown and Margaret Fortune. Below left: Jackie Kavanagh, Margaret O’Donohoe and Claire Nolan. Below right: Margaret Mythen, Caroline McCrea and Catherine Dunne.
4th November 2022 - Page 49
SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad
Bunclody Tourist Office closes There was disappointing news for Bunclody last month as its tourist office closed permanently. ‘Tourism Bunclody’ issued the following statement: Sad News From today, Friday 28th of October 2022, Bunclody Tourist Office will close its doors in its present location in the heart of the town for good. This is due to our landlord requiring his premises back which he generously provided to the tourist office for free for over 5 years and he also paid for the electricity costs. We at Tourism Bunclody thank him ever so much for this. Wexford County Council are unable or unwilling to provide Bunclody with another premises and as far as we know have no plans to open another tourist office in Bunclody Town any time soon which is a very sad thing for the visitors and residents of Bunclody.
to keep the office running through good times and bad, and we will miss running the office and helping visitors to the town.
The Manager and staff of Bunclody Tourist Office wish to thank all the volunteers, employment scheme workers and town businesses that have helped in the past
This Facebook page and the Shop Bunclody Online and in Town group on Facebook will remain active but unfortunately will no longer be updated by us on a
daily basis, and unfortunately the Beautiful Bunclody 3rd edition calendar which was near completion will not now be produced as an office is needed to run the distribution of the calendar from. Goodbye everyone in Bunclody and thank you from the Tourist Office Bunclody. n
The worst road in the Enniscorthy area?
The pictures above are of the roadway between the Shamrocks GAA pitch and the Shamrock Rovers soccer pitch. The dire state of this road was raised by Cllr Jackser Owens at the October meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District. The meeting was told by a Council official that the problem relates to ownership of the roadway; it is not owned by the Council and they are attempting, through their legal advisors, to establish ownership. If that problem can be solved, the Council official indicated that they would like to resurface the roadway and include a footpath to facilitate parents and children using that route to access St Senan’s School. n
Page 50 - 4th November 2022
SlaNey NewS
Do you know the ‘ABC’ of COPD? Ahead of World COPD Day (Nov 16), and with 270,000 people unaware that they have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), COPD Support Ireland asks… Do you know the “ABC” of COPD? 1,388 hospital admissions of people from Wexford due to COPD between 2019 and 2021. Latest figures show, according to the National Healthcare Quality Reporting System, that between 2019 and 2021, there were 1,388 hospital admissions of people from Wexford due to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD. Yet of the estimated 380,000 people living with COPD in Ireland, it is thought that approximately 270,000 of these are unaware that they may have this serious and progressive lung condition. While perhaps more well-known as bronchitis or emphysema, what is not so wellknown about COPD are its symptoms and risk factors. Against this backdrop, and with World COPD Day taking place on Wednesday November 16, COPD Support Ireland is urging the people of Wexford to get to know the “ABC” of COPD and when they should get checked out: A is for those Age 35 and over B is for ongoing Breathlessness C is for a Cough that won’t go away, with or without phlegm In summary, if you are over 35 years of age, have ongoing symptoms of breathlessness and a persistent cough, with or without phlegm, then you are encouraged to visit your GP for a simple spirometry breathing test. Expert Videos: While tobacco is the main cause of COPD, other risk factors include exposure to second-hand smoke, inhalation of dusts, chemicals and fumes, living with an existing condition such as chronic asthma, and having a family history of certain lung-related illnesses. To mark World COPD Day, COPD Support Ireland is launching a series of expert videos on life with COPD. The videos cover topics such as what is COPD, types of treatments, managing breathlessness, using oxygen, coping with flare-ups, making the most of exercise, going abroad, and accessing supports. Other educational resources to support people with
Credit: BSIP / Collection Mix: Subjects via Getty Images
COPD, including the COPD & Me information booklet, and the Exercise at Home poster, are also available and can be found at www.copd.ie Gloomy Statistics: Consultant Respiratory Physician & chair of COPD Support Ireland, Prof. Tim McDonnell, comments: “It really is quite astonishing that more than two-thirds of the people thought to have COPD in this country have absolutely no idea that they have it. It’s probably then not surprising that Ireland has such high hospitalisation for COPD with a rate approximately double that of the UK according to latest figures1. However, notwithstanding these gloomy statistics, the important message that I would like to get across is that while COPD is a chronic disease that unfortunately doesn’t go away, early diagnosis means that treatment and support can be offered immediately meaning a much better quality of life, for longer. “Because smoking is the major risk factor in causing COPD, many people have a misplaced guilt on learning of their diagnosis, which can give rise to stigma and judgement. Firstly, it’s important to remember that when they would have started smoking a number of decades ago, the information back then as to its harmful effects was much less apparent than it is now. Secondly, smoking is an addiction and not an easy nut to crack.
That’s why I’d encourage smokers to access the many supports available to help maximise their quitting chances.” Winter-ready! Joan Johnston, General Manager, COPD Support Ireland, adds: “As we enter the winter season, I really cannot stress enough the importance of everyone getting their ‘flu, pneumonia and COVID vaccines. This will not only help people whether they have COPD or not, but will also help minimise the risk of spreading infection to others. There were many new routines adopted in response to the pandemic and, if you have been diagnosed with COPD, or have lung health problems, it really does make sense to continue to avoid overly-crowded places at this time of year, and to wash your hands or use hand sanitiser regularly when out and about.” “If you or a loved one has a persistent cough, shortness of breath or recurring chest infections, I’d urge you not to delay but contact your GP or call the COPD AdviceLine on Freefone 1800 832146 where you can make an appointment to speak to a COPD specialist nurse or physiotherapist.” For full details of the national network of 33 COPD support groups under the COPD Support Ireland umbrella across the country, and the exercise and education programmes on offer, visit www.copd.ie n
4th November 2022 - Page 51
SlaNey ad
Comhairle Contae
053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
Wexford County Council has vacancies in the following areas of our Community Employment Scheme Job Description
Location
Environmental Worker with Class B Drivers Licence – 1 position
Ferns
Environmental Worker – 2 positions
Gorey
Environmental Worker with Class B Drivers Licence – 1 position
Courtown
Library Support Worker – 1 position
Enniscorthy
Environmental Worker – 2 positions
Castlebridge
Environmental Worker – 4 positions
New Ross
Environmental Worker – 6 positions
Duncannon
Community Bus Driver – Class D Licence – 1 position
New Ross
Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following posts Assistant Planner Executive Planner Selection for all posts will be by means of interview and candidates may be shortlisted based on applications submitted. Panels may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled. Qualifications, application forms and further particulars for these posts are available from our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie Please note all applications for the above posts must be Typed and submitted by Email only to recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie Printed hard copies will NOT be accepted for the above posts. Closing date for receipt of completed application form for these posts is: 5.00pm on Thursday 24th November, 2022. Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Duties to include: • •
Environmental Worker - General maintenance, cleaning, planting and weeding etc. Community Bus Driver – Must hold valid clean Class D Drivers Licence
To apply for positions in Ferns, Gorey, Courtown and Enniscorthy and for further information please contact – Bernie Lennon, CE Scheme Supervisor, Wexford County Council on 087 6575743 during office hours 9am – 5pm or email: bernie.lennon@wexfordcoco.ie To apply for positions in Castlebridge, Duncannon and New Ross and for further information please contact – Sean O’Neill, CE Supervisor, Wexford County Council on 086 9478001 during office hours 9am – 5pm or email sean.oneill@wexfordcoco.ie The closing date for All applications is Friday November 11th at 4pm. Please note that persons applying for these positions must satisfy the Department of Social Protection criteria to participate in the Community Employment Scheme. Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com
Page 52 - 4th November 2022
Outside office hours call: 053 919 6000 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 ad
Comhairle Contae
Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
PUBLIC NOTICE SECTION 28 OF THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT ACT 2000 (AS AMENDED), RESIDENTIAL ZONED LAND TAX (RZLT) A draft map, prepared under Section 653C of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, has been published on Wexford County Council’s website www.wexfordcoco.ie and is available for inspection during normal opening hours at the following locations: • Planning Department, Block B, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93 • Gorey Library, Gorey Civic Square, The Avenue, Gorey, Co. Wexford, Y25 WK37. • Bunclody Library, Millwood, Carrrigduff, Bunclody, Co. Wexford Y21 E970 The draft map has been prepared for the purposes of identifying land that satisfies the relevant criteria and is to be subject to the residential zoned land tax. Lands in the Gorey and Courtown areas may be liable for RZLT from 1st February 2024 as zoned on or before 1st January 2022 Lands in the Bunclody and Rosslare Harbour/Kilrane area maybe liable for RZLT from 1st February 2025 as zoned on 25th July 2022. Residential properties, notwithstanding that they may be included on the draft map, shall not be chargeable to the residential zoned land tax. Land which satisfies the relevant criteria is a reference to land that— (a) is included in a development plan, in accordance with section 10(2) (a) of the Act of 2000, or local area plan, in accordance with section 19(2)(a) of the Act of 2000, zoned— (i) solely or primarily for residential use, or (ii) for a mixture of uses, including residential use, (b) it is reasonable to consider may have access, or be connected, to public infrastructure and facilities, including roads and footpaths, public lighting, foul sewer drainage, surface water drainage and water supply, necessary for dwellings to be developed and with sufficient service capacity available for such development, and (c) it is reasonable to consider is not affected, in terms of its physical condition, by matters to a sufficient extent to preclude the provision of dwellings, including contamination or the presence of known archaeological or historic remains, but which is not land— (i) that is referred to in paragraph (a)(i) and, having regard only to development (within the meaning of the Act of 2000) which is not unauthorised development (within the meaning of the Act of 2000), is in use as premises, in which a trade or profession is being carried on, that is liable to commercial rates, that it is reasonable to consider is being used to provides services to residents of adjacent residential areas, (ii) that is referred to in paragraph (a)(ii), unless it is reasonable to consider that the land is vacant or idle, (iii) that it is reasonable to consider is required for, or is integral to, occupation by— (I) social, community or governmental infrastructure and facilities, including infrastructure and facilities used for the purposes of public administration or the provision of education or healthcare, (II) transport facilities and infrastructure, (III) energy infrastructure and facilities, (IV) telecommunications infrastructure and facilities, (V) water and wastewater infrastructure and facilities, (VI) waste management and disposal infrastructure, or (VII) recreational infrastructure, including sports facilities and playgrounds, (IV) that is subject to a statutory designation that may preclude development, or (V) on which the derelict sites levy is payable in accordance with the Derelict Sites Act 1990. Submissions on the draft map may be made in writing to Wexford County Council not later than 1 January 2023, regarding (I) either the inclusion in or exclusion from the final map of specific sites, or (II) the date on which a site first satisfied the relevant criteria. Written submissions can be made as follows: • Online via Wexford County Council’s online Consultation Portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie where you can register for an account to make your submission. • By email to rzlt@wexfordcoco.ie • In hard copy to the following address: Residential Zoned Land Tax (RZLT), Planning Department, Block B, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93. Please mark your submission ‘Residential Zoned Land Tax (RZLT). Submissions should include a name and address, reasons for inclusion or exclusion of lands, along with a map of scale 1:1,000 (urban area) or 1:2,500 (rural area). Where the submission is made by a landowner, the submission shall be accompanied by a map prepared by Ordnance Survey Ireland, clearly identifying the area of land and at a scale at which the site can be accurately identified. Any such written submissions received by 1st January 2023 other than such elements of a submission which may constitute personal data, shall be published on Wexford County Council’s website not later than 11th January 2023. Where land identified on the draft map is included in a development plan or local area plan in accordance with section 10(2)(a) or 19(2)(a) of the Act of 2000 zoned— (i) solely or primarily for residential use, or (ii) for a mixture of uses, including residential use, Where land is identified on the draft map as being subject to the residential zoned land tax, a person may, in respect of land that such a person owns, make a submission to the local authority requesting a variation of the zoning of that land. Any such submission should include evidence of ownership, detailed reasons for any rezoning request, along with a map to a scale of 1:1,000 (urban) or 1:2,500 (rural) clearly identifying the relevant plot of land. All rezoning requests made will be considered by the Local Authority having regard to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
4th November 2022 - Page 53
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
LIVE CRIB HOSTED BY WEXFOR
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2022, AT 12 NO Hosted by Wexford IFA at the IFA Centre Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, Y21 N9F5 More details nearer the date. Page 54 - 4th November 2022
RD IFA
OON e, 5
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
FESTIVE FLOWER ARRANGEMENT AT ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY Make your own Festive Flower Arrangement under the guidance of Rose Walsh, professional flower designer. Ideal as either a gift or for your home for Christmas. All materials will be provided. November 24th at 6:30pm. Booking essential. Please register for your place by phoning 053 9236055
4th November 2022 - Page 55
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
Badooom!! Comic Book Expo The "Badoom!!" Comic Book Expo will take place on Sunday 6th November from 10am-6pm in the Seamus Rafter Suite, Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy. The event will feature vendors selling comics, writers and artists showcasing their work and independent comic publishers will be there too. The organisers say, “This event will bring people back to when we used to collect and swap comics in our youth, be it old war comics, Beanos, etc. For some this will be a nostagia trip, for others a new beginning, for all it will be a great day to enjoy.” Free admission to this fantastic family day out! n
Badoom Table Plan may be subject to change
Page 56 - 4th November 2022
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
Fintan stars in classic play Enniscorthy actor Fintan Kelly played the lead role last month in a new professional staging of 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' at Garter Lane Arts Centre, Waterford. IT'S ALWAYS A PRIVILEGE TO BE IN THE PRESENCE OF GREATNESS AND THE ‘SLANEY NEWS’ WAS INCREDIBLY LUCKY TO BE AT ONE OF THE GREAT PLAYS OF THE 20TH CENTURY GIVEN A FLAWLESS PERFORMANCE LAST MONTH BY ENNISCORTHY'S FINTAN KELLY AND HIS THREE FELLOW CAST MEMBERS... We were gripped for three solid hours as this tour de force dark comedy and emotional maelstrom assaulted our senses. The venue, staging and set were perfect – the intimate setting of the Garter Lane theatre in Waterford meant the audience felt like they were on the stage with the actors. The sound and lighting were 'spot on' – we heard every word spoken in the 180 minutes of rapid-fire dialogue. The acting was incredible – all four performers were at the very top of their game. And Fintan, in the main role, gave for this reviewer, his best performance ever, and those who have lucky enough to see particularly his Howie the Rookie play will know what an incredible actor he is. And full marks to James Power of Stagemad Theatre Company, the director and producer, for putting on such a masterful production of this theatrical masterpiece while working off a shoestring budget. We were also delighted to see such a big contingent from Enniscorthy Drama Group there on the night (see photos) to support Fintan. All the group were blown away by the incredible production. One can only hope that it goes on tour nationwide to allow it be seen by a much wider audience. Big group pic below L-R: Ger Mitchell, Anthony Finn, Liz Mitchell, Podge Dwyer, Fintan Kelly (actor), Anne Doyle, Tim Connaughton, Niamh Crowhurst and Liam Doyle. Smaller group pic below L-R: Ronan P. Byrne, Hannah McNiven (the writer of the play ‘Lights Out’ which ran recently in Wexford Arts Centre), Fintan Kelly (actor), Eoghan Rua Finn, Martin Murphy. Cast L-R: Noelle Clarke, Lauren Cardiff, Fintan Kelly, Fintan Kelly, Adam Phelan. – Frank Corcoran
4th November 2022 - Page 57
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
Roses tour of Wexford was a stu
Left: The Roses stop to sample Wexford’s famo District Cathaoirleach Cllr. Aidan Browne and Cyr Above: The Roses on the rooftop of Enniscorthy officials and public representa
In August 2022, 33 Roses from all around the world visited Co. Wexford for three days of jam-packed fun in the Sunny South East ahead of the 61st official Rose of Tralee International Festival. As the first stop on the 10-day tour across the country, County Wexford had a standard to set and it certainly exceeded those expectations in terms of the welcome to the model county. The success of the Roses’ visit to County Wexford was all made possible by the two main sponsors and the incredible support and welcome from the local tourism businesses. Over 400,000 RTÉ viewers tuned into the Wexford Rose Tour featuring stunning footage of our county. The Ashdown Park Hotel in Gorey, the official hospitality partner of the tour, provided the Roses with top-class hospitality during their visit. The 4 Star hotel in Gorey pulled out all the stops with excellent food, service and entertainment. The gala dinner raised an incredible €12,300 for the North Wexford Hospice Nurses Trust. Wexford County Council kindly hosted the
General Manager of Ashdown Park Hotel Paul Finegan presents the North Wexford Hospice Nurses Trust with a cheque for €12,300 which was raised at the Wexford Rose Tour Gala Dinner in the Ashdown Park Hotel. Pic: Ashdown Park Hotel.
Page 58 - 4th November 2022
tour and Cllr. George Lawlor, Cathaoirleach, Wexford County Council, warmly welcomed the Roses at the iconic Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens at the commencement of their 3-day tour. The return of the Rose of Tralee International Festival following a 2-year hiatus was much anticipated and the viewership figures were impressive. Viewers tuned in to see Wexford Rose Joy Quigley take to the stage to close the show on the first night, and a highlight reel of the Rose tour of Ireland on the second night saw County Wexford feature heavily. The video footage included all County Wexford stops on the tour: Wexford Lavender Farm, Seal Rescue Ireland, Wells House, Curracloe Beach, Irish National Heritage Park, Enniscorthy Castle, Bunclody Golf &
2019 Rose of Tralee Sinead Flanagan with Wexford Rose Joy Quigley and Cathao Wexford County Council George Lawlor on Wexford Quay during the Wexford Ro Pic: Domnick Walsh.
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
unning success
ous strawberries with Enniscorthy Municipal ril and Margaret Wheelock. Pic: Zena O’Brien. Castle with re-enactors, Wexford Co. Council atives. Pic: Domnick Walsh.
irleach of ose Tour.
Fishing Club, Henry’s Ice Cream Campile, Wheelock’s Fruits, The Cheeky Cod, Scúp Gelato, Hook Lighthouse, Secret Valley Wildlife Park, The Barrow Princess and Dunbrody Famine Ship. The show attracts a large domestic and international audience and this year’s show over two nights drew in over 406,000 viewers for the live broadcast on RTÉ One. The county’s official destination brand Visit Wexford also saw a huge increase in traffic across both the website and social media channels during the Wexford Rose Tour and festival broadcast. The Roses’ visit was live posted across social media during the 3-day tour which garnered over 50,000 video views, engagement increased by 180% and there were over 27,000 visits to VisitWexford.ie during this period where the Wexford Rose Tour digital itinerary was available to download.
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764. The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000 The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: (0402) 38529
There are high hopes that the Roses will return to County Wexford following the success of the 2022 Wexford Rose Tour. n
New Ross Municipal District Cathaoirleach Cllr. Michael Sheehan enjoying Ireland’s best 99s at Henry’s Ice Cream, Campile, with Dubai Rose Aileen McAlister and New York Rose Cathrena Collins. Pic: Domnick Walsh.
4th November 2022 - Page 59
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
James O’Brien Memorial Dance fundraiser
Above left: At the James O’Brien Memorial Dance fundraiser in aid of Vanessa Martin in Bellefield GAA Complex on 22nd October 2022 were Alan and Verona Murray. Above centre: Jenny Nolan and William Heffernan. Above right: Alan O’Brien and Krishannette Christine Connolly.
Above left: Gwneth Meekins, Fionn O’Brien-Doyle and Alex O’Brien. Above right: Melanie and Anne O’Brien, Emiy Neville and Alan O’Brien.
Left: The Music was supplied by: Tommy Carroll, Jimmy Hogan, John Dunne, Lar Kenny and in front Leslie Dunne. Above: Simon and Liz Murphy.
Page 60 - 4th November 2022
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
Helping to Kit out the Refuge
Leo Carthy Weekend successful fundraising Well done to the committee of the Leo Carthy weekend, who last month were able to hand out cheques to local causes and charities. The committee was particularly proud to hand over a cheque for €7,500 to the KIT OUT THE REFUGE campaign – the biggest cheque it has ever handed over and it couldn't have done this without its great sponsors and donations from the public. Facebook: ‘KIT OUT the Refuge’ n
4th November 2022 - Page 61
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
Banshees, Booley Girls & Swans’ Wings Local children’s author Caroline Busher launched her fourth novel The Spectacular Library of Magical Things on Tuesday 1st November to a large gathering of family and friends at the Wexford Book Centre. Caroline, whose amazing talent and imagination has endeared her to young readers all over the country and beyond, felt that the time had come to un-demonise the much maligned, wailing Banshee that we all grew up with.
Enniscorthy author Caroline Busher, pictured above, has just launched her latest novel 'The Spectacular Library of Magical Things'. The book is available now nationwide.
Her book, set against the backdrop of the 1798 Rebellion, endeavours to humanise a young Banshee called Siofra, who resides on an enchanted island off the coast of Wexford. Like all of us, Caroline was terrified with tales of the Banshee and the Bogeyman, exchanging stories of the Banshee wailing when people were passing from this world to the next and of her father warning her never to pick a comb up on the road in case it belonged to the dreaded and fearful Banshee – not to mention being a hygiene issue. Caroline wanted to tell the story of the girl behind the legend, and her struggle to survive in a world where she is very much misunderstood. During her research for the novel she came across an old Irish tradition where young girls would take to the mountains during the summer months, and live together in stone huts called Booley
E R Ruth Murray ‘In Conversation’ with Caroline Busher.
Houses looking after cattle and not returning home until Halloween. Strange occurrences involving the Banshee were reported by the Booley girls as they were known, which prompted Caroline to include them in the book. It all makes for very intriguing reading, add in a girl called Cara born with a swan’s wing and the fact that it is set here in Wexford, around Enniscorthy, Mount Leinster and the Saltee Islands, making it a must for all young Wexfordians. The Spectacular Library of Magical Things was launched by fellow Children’s author and close friend E R Ruth Murray
who did an In Conversation style interview with Caroline delving into her work as a writer and her work for the library service along with exploring her love for Ireland and all things Irish, despite being born and brought up in Manchester, something that both writers have in common, with Ruth born and bred in England and now living in Schull in County Cork. Caroline read a passage from the book to whet our appetites before calling on teenagers Eire and Chulainn O`Faolain who delighted with an emotive rendition of Eibhlín a Rúin. – Words & pics courtesy of Maria Nolan
Above left: Caroline Busher with Maria Nolan. Above right: Caroline with Eire and Chulainn O`Faolain.
Page 62 - 4th November 2022
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
Dancing with Declan Opinion You Didn't
Keep up to date with the local dancing scene on: https://www.facebook.com/DancingwithDec
https://www.facebook.com/socialdancingdateswexford n
Ask For Podcast
Wexford Arts Centre For details and updates on all happening in Wexford Arts Centre: https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.com/shows n
What’s On Wexford Tune in to Jamie and Blayne’s podcasts and check out: https://www.facebook.com/OpinionYouDidntAskFor/
Enniscorthy Drama Group will take to Enniscorthy Library the road
Check out https://mailchi.mp/b8835026ca33/whats-happenin-wexford?e=bffb7d288b for the best listing of what’s happening all over Co. Wexford. n
Wexford Public Libraries' YouTube Channel... Make sure to check out Wexford Public Libraries' YouTube channel. Catch up with all the events you may have missed or would like to watch again, as well as handy guides and tutorials for accessing Wexford Public Libraries' e-services. n
Baby & Toddler Time at Enniscorthy Library... Every Tuesday at 10:30am Enniscorthy Library is delighted to welcome parents and guardians with their little ones for fun rhymes, stories and songs. Suitable for ages 0-4. The relaxed and friendly environment of the library is the perfect setting to make friends and introduce books and reading from an early age. Children must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian at all times. Contact Enniscorthy Library to book a place: Phone: 053 9236055 enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie
Events including children’s events and activities... https://mailchi.mp/7ea988515407/enniscorthy-library-october-2022-events?e=4287847cb8 n
Stay in touch Wexford Public Libraries Social Media: Wexford Public Libraries on Facebook. Wexford Public Libraries on Instagram @wexfordlibraries. Wexford Public Libraries on Twitter @wexlibraries. YouTube: "Wexford Public Libraries" n
Enniscorthy Drama Group will be taking the play Farsiders by Fintan Kelly on the All Ireland drama circuit in 2023 to the following venues: February 27th Kilmuckridge, March 2nd Gorey March 6th Doonbeg, March 8th Kildare March 9th Mountmellick, March 20th Carnew March 22nd New Ross, March 24th Wexford. The cast will be: Chopper - Tim Connaughton Red - Podge Dwyer Hawk - Anthony Finn Pat - Brendan Robinson Jane - Niamh Crowhurst Mary - Maeve Ennis Jenny - Roisin Barry DJ - Liam Doyle The group will be putting it on pre circuit in February in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy. Watch this space for details. n
ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY Lymington Road - Phone: 053 9236055 enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthylibrary Enniscorthy Library will be closed from Saturday 29th October to Tuesday 1st November.
4th November 2022 - Page 63
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
Over the Water Tractor Run at Screen on 9th October 2022. Old and new tractors participating.
Over the Water Tractor Run at Screen on 9th October Old and new tractors participating.
Screen’s Over The Water T Left: Peter Kinsella and Matt Doyle. Right: Keeping the tractor men buttered up were Anne Jordan and Breda Redmond. Far right: Paddy Kenny and relations Emma and Eamonn Nolan having a cuppa before they go on the tractor run. Below left: Eamonn and Emma Nolan. Below second from left: Paddy Kenny and his tractor with Jack O’Connor. Below second from right: Paddy White, Paddy Buckley and Mick Brooks. Below far right: Loughlin and Mary Druhan, Martin Day and John Cardiff.
Page 64 - 4th November 2022
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
2022.
Keeping the register at the run were Bridget Byrne and Marguerite Scallan.
Eddie Sinnott relaxing in his cab before the run.
Tractor Run 9th October 2022
4th November 2022 - Page 65
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
Wexford Science Festival
Free Family Fun Day announced for Wexford Science Festival
Pictured during a recent Science Week event is Caroline Ainslie as ‘Bubblz’. Pic: Patrick Browne.
South East Technological University (SETU) unveils a programme of interactive, educational and fun events for people of all ages from pre-school to age 105. Events are set to take place from November 13th to 19th as part of National Science Week. The SETU Science Week events are coordinated by Calmast, the STEM Engagement centre at South East Technological University funded by Science Foundation Ireland and EPA, Wexford Council with support from Waters and Danone in Wexford. More than 100 free events will take place including activities for schools, afternoon shows for families and evening events for the general public with over 10,000 expected to participate across the region. In Wexford the Wexford Science Festival Family Fun day events will be on offer from 11- 5 on Saturday, November 19th at Wexford Town Library, Gorey Library, New Ross Library, Enniscorthy, and Bunclody. At Wexford Library Super Science will be on offer with Mark the Science Guy from RTE’s hit show ‘Let’s Find Out’. He will host a fun-filled, energetic display of his favourite science experiments for the whole family to join in. There’ll be
Page 66 - 4th November 2022
whizzes, pops, booms and plenty of laughter in this hilarious show featuring rockets, cannons and gravity defying stunts and much more to keep the kids entertained and inspired, with lots of ideas for home science activities. At Gorey Library Ken Farkuhar is calling on young festivalgoers to ‘Roll up’ and enjoy some entertaining circus science experiments. The ‘Juggling Scientist’ Dr Ken explores the scientific principles behind skilful circus tricks and dangerous stunts. You will be holding onto your seats as he eats fire, cracks whips and juggles 5 beanbags - all in the name of science as audiences learn about gravity and friction. At New Ross Library ‘Nutty Scientists’ will explore the science of space and at Enniscorthy Library Junior Einsteins will be able to join in some science experiments. At WWETB, festivalgoers are invited to explore the FABLAB (Fabrication Laboratory) a fabrication workshop which gives people the opportunity to turn their ideas into reality. At the Wexford Science Café, there will be a public discussion on the science, technology and politics of developing renewable energy resources in the
county. This discussion will cover a wide range of issues arising in relation to the current and future wind power and solar power projects offshore and on land in Wexford. These include issues of climate science, power-grid and turbine technologies, investment, planning, and community disruption and benefits. Event partners for the Wexford Science Festival include the EPA, Wexford Co. Council Library service, Local STEM companies Danone and Waters, the National Opera House, and Wexford Local Development. The core theme for Science Week 2022 is “Infinite Possibilities”. From the infinite variety of our amazing planet and the adaptability of nature to our ability to face the unexpected, the possibilities are endless. We have many choices to make and more challenges to face, and we are all part of the conversation about the role that science can play. For Science Week 2022, people are asked to explore the infinite possibilities of science. Full details of the Wexford Science Festival and booking can be found at www.wexsci.ie
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
Sensory toys and assistive resources at local library SENSORY FRIENDLY QUIET HOUR NOW AT ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY: Every Saturday between 4-5pm at Enniscorthy Library is a quiet hour. Library users can visit and relax in the calm, friendly environment of the library. Also available to help make the sensory experience better: Dark Den - children can benefit from the quiet time they spend inside. A sensory box containing calming toys to use during your visit. Ear defenders for children with sound sensitivities. Ask any staff member for these during your visit. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SENSORY TOYS AND ASSISTIVE RESOURCES (STAR) COLLECTION: You will need A STAR card to borrow items from the sensory collection, get one for free from any mobile or library branch in Wexford. All you need is photo ID and proof of address. The Sensory Toys and Assistive Resources (STAR) collection holds over 100 items and was developed to support children and young people with additional needs. Items such as toys, special aids and literacy apps can be borrowed from all libraries in Co. Wexford. Items have been chosen to aid skills such as fine motor skills or sensory processing development. This collection was carefully developed in collaboration with therapists and can be accessed free of charge in all library branches throughout Wexford county. T&Cs apply. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– C-PEN READER PEN: Reader Pens can be borrowed, by any library user, for a three-week loan period. Reader Pens read words and full lines of text aloud to help with independent reading. People with dyslexia, difficulty with reading or pronunciation, for people learning languages or people with vision problems all will find the pens helpful. The pen reads text aloud with a natural speaking voice, they have built-in dictionaries, giving the option to access definitions of the words as they read them. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For more information on any of the above, phone Enniscorthy Library 053 9236055 or email: enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie n
Enniscorthy Library Opening Hours Monday 10.30am - 5.30pm (closed 1pm to 2pm) Tuesday 10.30am - 5.30pm, Wednesday 10.30am - 5.30pm, Thursday 10.30am - 8.30pm Friday 10.30am - 5.30pm, Saturday 10.30am - 5.30pm (closed 1pm to 2pm) Closed Saturday & Monday of bank holiday weekends.
4th November 2022 - Page 67
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
TEL: 053 9233000
THE PRESENTATION ARTS CENTRE WWW.PRESENTATIONCENTRE.IE FOR BOOKING ON ALL EVENTS: WWW.WEXFORDARTSCENTRE.IE/EVENTS/ Page 68 - 4th November 2022
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
4th November 2022 - Page 69
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
Scary times in Gorey Kids Halloween Party, 31st October 2022, at Gorey Shopping Centre
Top left: Rosie Askins and Lily Loughnan. Top right: Makeup artist Aisling Williams and Leacy O’Brien. Above left: Mabel Sharman and Tracey Wallace. Above: Ríona and Roísín Collins-Bolger. Above right: Roisín Williams and Cassie O’Brien. Right: Sean Flanigan. Below left: 3 witches – Carragh, Mia and Ella Funge. Below Centre: Befler, Cassie, Trish and MJ Robertson. Below right: Ava and Jade O’Connor.
Page 70 - 4th November 2022
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
Halloween Kia Ora Mini Farm, Gorey
Top left: Jamie and Andrew Murphy and Sean Prendergast. Above left: Emilia Treacy is not worried by the spooky things around her. Above: He’s been waiting too long! Above right: Elizabeth Cash. Left: Mary Cash in her Wonder Woman outfit. Below: Caoimhe Naughton was the anchor woman in the family’s day out at Kia Ora. Right: Mary Ellen and husband William. Bottom left: The last unicorn! Aine O’Kene. Bottom centre: Riley McInerney. Bottom right: Dying to use the John!
4th November 2022 - Page 71
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
ARE YOU DANCING? Welcome to the October issue of the Slaney News where I'll be filling you in on all the goings on in the music and dance scene here in the Southeast. On Sept 9th, we headed to Terrence Dunnes Vintage Day in Mullinacuff, somewhere in the hills between Tinahely and Shillelagh. The forecast wasn't good but Terrence said we'd soldier on regardless as there was no guarantee it would be any better the next week. And true to form, the rain didn't disappoint us and we got wet to the maker's name. But we had a great time and fair dues to Terrence and his team they raised a heap of money for Hospice Homecare. Unfortunately, the weather came earlier the following week and scuppered Tommy Tutty's Vintage Day in Ballyfad. It was to be our last day out in 2022 so it was a pity it had to be cancelled, and with other vintage days planned for the next couple of weeks, Tommy decided it was best not to clash with them and hopefully we'll make up for it next year. It's the time of year when a lot of the music artists hold weekends abroad and offer a chance to the many dancers who avail of these sell-out gigs to escape the Irish weather. I know some of our own lads went to Patrick Feeny's Portugal trip and more went to Nathan Carter’s 'Carter on the Costa' while others opted for the 'Hooley In The Sun' with Declan Nerney. These trips seem to be ten-a-penny now but if it's something you might fancy, early booking is essential to secure a place. On Friday 28th we headed to 'The Courtyard' in Ferns to Stacey Breen's 21st (yes that's all she is!) where Take 5 played a fabulous selection of old and new songs that kept the floor full all night (well worth a call if you're looking for a band for any occasion). Make no mistake about it, the Irish country scene is exceptionally hard for a female singer to break into, but with a lot of hard work, great song choices, and an ever-impressive confident stage pres-
Rain doesn't stop play in Terrence Dunnes.
Page 72 - 4th November 2022
ence, Stacey is carving a notch out for herself under the very watchful eye of her dad, Aidan. The Bailey on Sat 8th was full to capacity as expected for Alan Power & The Aftershocks. The night kicked off with The Bellefords and D.J. Lewis Boogie. Keep an eye out on the Southeast R'n'R social media to see what they have in the pipeline. We can't let this article go without mentioning the Spiegeltent. If you haven't been, you need to, at least once. It's a spectacular wooden venue built over 100 years ago with stained glass windows, cut glass mirrors, and private booths all around its circular structure. The atmosphere is electric once you enter and there is every type of show to suit all tastes. We are heading in this Thursday 3rd November to see The Bay City Rollers. A blast from the past for anyone my vintage. Photos to follow in our next issue of the Slaney News. Here are some new releases to listen out for. It's great to be able to buy all these on iTunes now as not too long ago it was nearly impossible to find new Irish artists there. Stacey Breen - "Love Bug". Perfect for a lively Foxtrot, Slosh or Electric Slide. Stacey has given this George Jones hit from way back in 1965 a new lease of life. It's catchy, foot-tapping good, and in keeping with Stacey's lively choice of music on the dance circuit. Nathan Carter - "The Morning After". A great Quickstep or Jive this original song by Nathan is lamenting the 'one for the road' the previous night. Accompanied by a great video with Queen of Country Philomena Begley I'm sure we'll be hearing plenty of this in the dance halls. The Tumbling Paddies - "Night On The Town". And upping it another notch this original song by the lads from Fermanagh is perfect for a quickstep and a Jive. No time for the fancy stuff! I
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
with Declan Flanagan just don't think there's a song that Garath Maguire's unique voice couldn't make special. There's a very noticeable shift of young people from the dancehalls to these new trad-style bands in jam-packed smaller venues, so when they throw up something to suit the Jivers it's bound to keep them the hottest property on the Irish market for some time to come. Gerry Guthrie - "The Doghouse". I had a job tracking down the original artist but it was a 1990 song by John Conlee (also responsible for Jimmy Buckley's "Rose Coloured Glasses"). I love everything about this song – the lyrics, the music, and the way Gerry (& Wayne Thorose) has put it together and the way he sings it. It's made for Jiving and I can't wait to play it to the lads in the dance classes. Stuart Moyles - "Still The One". Written by Johanna & John Hall and recorded by Orleans in 1976, this nice catchy song by Stuart comes under the Slosh radar, so a lively Foxtrot or a 'Western Barndance' or better again a 'Sweet Delight' two-step would do nicely sir. Keep an eye out on 'The Social Dancing Around The Southeast' FB page for all the dances and events happening near you and support them whenever you can. So, that's all my ramblings for this month folks. I can hear the fireworks and trick & treaters as I write this article, so by the time I'm
back with you next time I'll be scrambling around my attic looking for my Christmas decorations. It's great to be back to normal. Until next month, stay safe and enjoy your dances. – Declan Flanagan
Above: The Bay City Rollers destined for The Spiegeltent. Below: Doonie's Geese reflecting on a wet day in Mullinacuff.
4th November 2022 - Page 73
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
Wallis in Wexford
Wallis Bird is returning to Wexford this November! Born in Galbally, Enniscorthy, but now residing in Germany, Wallis Bird has been enrapturing audiences for over a decade. She has won multiple international awards including two Irish Meteor Awards, and has also received a nomination for the Irish Choice Music Prize. Her irrepressible energy on stage is one of her trademarks; even the Irish Times once noted it could ‘kickstart an entire economy’. In May this year, Wallis released her seventh studio album Hands, her most personal and experimental to date, which turns the spotlight onto herself, raising issues that are sometimes hard to confront. Among these are issues of trust, alcohol abuse, stagnation, self-censorship and self-improvement. Each song on the album is delivered by a voice uncommonly blessed with joy, ingenuity and empathy.
Wallis Bird at Crown Live, Monck Street, Wexford, November 12th, 8pm, doors open 7.30pm. Tickets €25. Book here: https://lantern.ie/event/wallis-bird-3/
Wallis is unique in that she strums an upside-down, right-handed guitar. “As a child I fell under a lawnmower and cut all my fingers off,” she says. “Four were reconnected. One was lost. This led me to relearn how to hold things, and, when the time came, to play the guitar differently.” Having spent much of her life trying to exist despite its restrictions, she’s reached a point where she recognises that it’s always been vital to her lived reality. n
Would your young teenager like to join a book club? Enniscorthy Library is recruiting 12-15 year olds to start a brand new book club in Enniscorthy Library where participants will read excellent, age-appropriate books. It is hoped to gather a group together to meet and chat about the books, discuss their thoughts and share book recommendations. If you would like more information or your child would like to join, please contact the library on 053 9236055. n
Check out https://mailchi.mp/b8835026ca33/whatshappenin-wexford?e=bffb7d288b for the best listing of what’s happening all over Co. Wexford. n
Page 74 - 4th November 2022
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN Movie Review with Kyle Walsh
I got a chance to see this film in the cinema earlier this week – Banshees of Inisherin. Directed by Martin McDonagh and starring Brendan Gleeson, Colin Farrell and Barry Keoghan. This film is a wonderful tale about friendship between two men, on a beautiful Irish island, set in 1923 through the horrific civil war. Straight off the bat, the acting throughout this Irish film is brilliant and the chemistry between the two lead actors is extraordinary and is there for everyone to see. This is not the first time Gleeson and Farrell worked together, they also starred in a film called In Bruge which is a very good film too, in case you haven’t seen it yet.
The Banshees of Inisherin tale is about Padraic (Farrell) who lives a simple life as a milk farmer, and lives with his sister in a cottage. He calls to his best friend’s house every day at 2pm to go to the pub for a chat and a few pints. But those days are ending as his best friend Colm (Gleeson) doesn’t want to be his friend anymore. He just wants to be left alone by Padraic. Padraic can’t understand why Colm doesn’t want his friendship anymore. Padraic thinks of himself to be a very simple, nice man. Therefore there should be no problem between them. Colm tries to explain his reasons but it falls on Padraic’s deaf ears. Colm just wants to be left alone to compose music on his fiddle. Colm gets so frustrated with Padraic that he threatens to start cutting off his own fingers if Padraic keeps pestering him. For a fiddler to cut off his fingers would be like some-
one cutting of their nose to spite their face. So when Colm starts taking off his fingers you wonder where this film is going to go. And all the time the civil war in the background is ever so much coming closer and closer to our characters on screen. The banter between the two leads is brilliant throughout. But surprisingly, Barry Keoghan almost takes the film away from the two leads with a magnificent performance himself. This is a brilliant watch folks. It’s a film that is completely different than the usual nonsense that is hitting cinemas far too frequently these days. So it was a delightful surprise and one I highly recommend.
4th November 2022 - Page 75
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
BunclodyKilmyshall Drama Group’s Irish premiere The countdown is on for Bunclody-Kilmyshall Drama Group’s production of the Irish premiere of "Third Finger, Left Hand" with Director Tommy Murphy hard at work with the two talented actresses – Sinead O’Gorman and Margaret Farrell pictured below. n
Enniscorthy’s new acting course Recently qualified speech and drama teacher, Fintan Kelly, is delighted to announce the first acting course he will be facilitating. It will be limited to six people and is aimed at adults and teens. This creative acting for theatre course will be run over ten weeks on The Presentation Centre stage. Starting on No-
vember 7th, for 5 weeks, Fintan will be facilitating classes of character-creating exercises and will explore the teachings of Stanislavski, Chekhov and Meisner in the process, while using improv to create scenes and situations to develop these brand new characters that each individual will create themselves. Award-winning writer Paul O’Reilly from Enniscorthy will be in the room during the five weeks and Paul will take these characters that each individual has created and write a play that contains each of these characters over the Christmas period. The group will then rehearse this play when they return after Christmas on January 9th, which will be directed by Fintan for the last 5 weeks, and then put on at the end of the course. Left: Fintan Kelly. Right: Paul O’Reilly.
Page 76 - 4th November 2022
This course is open to all levels of acting from beginners to seasoned theatre actors. Fintan says, “This course will satisfy creative curiosities and leave you with a character that you have created yourself in an original piece of writing. Call me on 087 6756993 for more details.” n
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
Santa’s Enchanted Christmas at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre Book online now before it’s sold out!
www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie
4th November 2022 - Page 77
Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle
Rathnure Panto is back with a bang! ‘Sleeping Beauty(ish)’ will run for eight glorious nights in Rathnure Hall on 19th, 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th and 30th December and 1st and 2nd January. This panto always sells out so book now before it’s too late. Box Office open now on: 087 698 8004 and 087 679 0354. Follow ‘Rathnure Pantomime Society’ on Facebook and Instagram for news and updates. n
Page 78 - 4th November 2022
Slaney artS
Wide Open Space: Landscapes from the Wexford County Council and Mairead Furlong collections Wide Open Space: Landscapes from the Wexford County Council and Mairead Furlong collections. Curated by Eamonn Maxwell. Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. 20th October – 2nd December 2022. Open Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm. Wide Open Space is an exhibition of more than 50 works by leading Irish artists from the Wexford County Council Art Collection, exploring the enduring influence of the environment around us, including Barrie Cooke, Elizabeth Cope, Eithne Jordan, Cecil King, Alice Maher, Alannah O'Kelly, Sean McSweeney, Blaise Smith and Mary Swanzy.
Orla Barry, an artist and shepherd based in Co. Wexford. In addition, it will showcase works by other Wexford based artists including Hanneke Van Ryswyk, Mary O’Connor, Orla Bates, Maire Holohan and Kate Murphy. The education/outreach element of the Wexford County Art Collection continues to grow, with art works currently sited in Wexford General Hospital, Wexford Libraries, the five municipal district offices, Wexford schools and throughout County Hall. Free public tours of the County Art Collection are also offered regularly by the Arts Office and are delivered by a panel of local artists.
The exhibition also features a selection of artworks recently gifted to Wexford County Council collection by the Estate of Mairead Furlong. Mairead Furlong was the driving force behind the establishment of the Wexford County Council Art Collection and set up an arts committee back in 1994. For over 20 years Mairead worked with this committee titled ‘The Friends of Wexford County Art Collection’ and through her passion and determination and support the County Collection grew from strength to strength. The County Art Collection now comprises over 400 art works, many of which are by Wexford based artists, as well as work acquired through long term loans with key institutions such as the Arts Council, IMMA, the AIB Collection, Wexford Arts Centre, and through private donations.
Mairead Furlong had an interest in art from an early age and
Many of the works in this exhibition were acquired by Wexford County Council during the period when Mairead was an active member of the art committee. Her ambition that the Collection should focus on excellence continues to this day, with works by local and national artists being added to the Collection each year. This exhibition will see many of the pieces go on public display for the first time, as well as revealing more recent acquisitions, including a large sculpture by
exhibitions across the world including the Irish Pavilion at the
worked as a photographer in her early twenties but life initially took her down the road of farm and retail management. In the 1960s she got involved in the establishment of Wexford Festival Opera and opened an antiques shop in her family home, Drinagh Lodge. Due to her growing sphere of influence, she was appointed by the Taoiseach, in 1983, to serve as a member of the board of the Arts Council / An Chomhairle Ealaíon. By 1994 she had convinced the then Wexford County Manager to set up an art committee and establish the Wexford County Art Collection. Eamonn Maxwell is an independent curator who has worked in the visual arts for over 20 years. He has curated numerous Venice Biennale in 2011 and was Director of Lismore Castle Arts from 2009-2016. The exhibition is presented by Wexford County Council in partnership with Wexford Arts Centre, and funded by the Arts Council of Ireland. For further information please contact arts@wexfordcoco.ie or telephone 053 9196369. n
Left: Sean McSweeney, Bogland Water, 1989, Oil On Board, 35x25cm. Centre: Alanna O'Kelly & Réiltín Murphy, Untitled (An Leabhar Mór), 2002, Digital Print, 104x62cm. Right: Eithne Jordan, Houses With Fences III, 2005, Acrylic On Canvas, 190 x 240cm.
Page 74 - 6th October 2022
4th November 2022 - Page 79
Slaney SlaneyartS ad
The Master & The Composer in Con Wexford Arts Centre took the opportunity to showcase its wonderful new facelift at the 2022 Opera Festival, opening with a most entertaining In Conversation piece between renowned Wexford Author Colm Toibin and Italian Composer Alberto Caruso. In the fabulously intimate theatre setting, Arts Council Laureate of Literature Colm Toibin and composer Alberto Caruso discussed their collaboration and the immensely enjoyable process of creating and developing an opera based on Toibin`s novel The Master. The Master explores the life and struggles of author Henry James, and it was hugely interesting to the packed Arts Centre auditorium to see how Toibin and Caruso managed to transform the libretto into an opera which is being staged during the Festival. With piano to hand, the very talented Caruso demonstrated not just how he converted the words into melody but how he transmuted the intonation of Colm Toibin reading his own words into composition. Much of the evening examined the relationship between Henry James and author Constance Fenimore Woolson, the fourteenyear friendship that ended only with her tragic death in 1894, when she either fell or jumped from the fourth storey window of her Venice apartment. The full extent of their relationship and the true nature of their intimacy is uncertain, both making a pack to destroy the other`s letters retaining their secrets forever. A truly memorable evening in the company of greatness, literary and operatic. – Maria Nolan
Page 80 - 4th November 2022
Above: Colm Toibin and composer Alberto Caruso. Below: Maria Nolan, Colm Toibin, Carmel Codd Keen and Anne Gilpin. Pics: Courtesy of Maria Nolan.
Slaney artS
nversation
Above left: Gene and Ger Draper. Above centre: Theresa and Derek Burke. Above right: Karine and Irene Daly.
Above left: Colm and Alberto in rehearsals in Wexford Arts Centre. Above centre: Esther Hunt and Danielle Mahoney. Above right: Colm Toibin talks to Audrey Keane, Arts Council.
Above left: Alessandio Spevarza, Audrey Keane (Arts Council), Alberto Caruso, Colm Toibin, Elizabeth Whyte (Wexford Arts Centre), Mary Mouit and Steven Lutvak. Above right: Trying out the new lift at Wexford Arts Centre.
Above left: Maud O’Dwyer, Mary O’Brien, Mae O’Dwyer and David O’Brien. Above right: Jackie Kilgannon, Victoria Walsh-Hamer and Elizabeth Whyte (Wexford Arts Centre).
4th November 2022 - Page 81
Slaney SlaneyartS ad
Celebrating a trio of artists
At the opening on 23rd October 2022 of the art exhibition by Jeanne Ffrench, Patricia Kielthy and Mary Moloney, were Tom and Laura Harpur, artist Jeanne Ffrench, Nora and Bernard Gavin.
Above left: Some of the attendees at the launch. Above right: Mayor of Wexford Maura Bell opened the exhibition with the three artists on her right. Below left: David and Kelly Wright. Below right: Mary Hahan and Kieran Doyle.
Page 82 - 4th November 2022
Slaney artS
Above left: Artist Patricia Keilthy shows some of her works to Deirdre MacDonald. Above right: Emma and Lucy Barry and Ann Byrne.
TRIO - An Art Exhibition by Patricia Keilthy (fashion illustration and and contemporary textile art), Jeanne Ffrench (painter and ceramic artist), and Mary Moloney (specialising in contemporary collage and colourful abstracts), runs at 94 South Main Street, Wexford, until 4th November 2022.
Above left: Some of the attendees at the launch. Above right: Artist Jeanne Ffrench and the Mayor of Wexford Maura Bell at the opening. Below left: Liz Cousins, Margaret Kehoe and Billy Roche. Below right: Artist Patricia Keilthy, Deirdre Hynes, Artist Mary Moloney, Michael Commane, Dymphna Hynes and Miriam Glynn.
4th November 2022 - Page 83
Slaney SlaneyartS ad
Arts Appreciation classes at your local library Autumn is here and it seems everyone is focused on learning, so the National Opera House's Education and Community Programme is pleased to have run a number of Evening Classes in Arts Appreciation during October which took place in libraries throughout County Wexford, and two more of these classes will occur later this month, November 2022. In addition, a very special Singing for Health Workshop with Irish tenor, Ross Scanlon, will be held on Friday, 25 November. The remaining evening classes will feature selected professional musicians who will share their stories of how they came to make music their career; their background and training and life as a professional musician; their influences and of course their thoughts about coming back into live performances with live audiences. Live performance demonstrations of their instruments will also be part of this informal and interactive talk with plenty of opportunities to ask questions.
What is Opera? Evening Class in Arts Appreciation presented for National Opera House Education Programme by Elizabeth Drwal on Thursday 10th November 7-8pm in Bunclody Library. This event will keep you both entertained and engaged! Absolutely no prior experience of opera or singing needed! To book a place, please ring 053 93 75466.
Ross Scanlon is an accomplished tenor, having trained at the BIT Conservatory of Music and Drama at the Royal Academy of Music Opera School in London.
ture and learn how to produce a sound in a way that is vocally healthy. All this, while joyfully singing in a group environ-
ment and without the pressure of singing individually or performing for other people. n
These classes are FREE, but booking is essential as places are limited and these classes with very accomplished musicians are always popular. Thursday, 10 November 7pm Elizabeth Drwal, Bunclody Library. Thursday, 17 November 7pm Malachy Robinson, Enniscorthy Library. As well as the Arts Appreciation Evenings, a FREE Singing for Health Workshop with Ross Scanlon will take place in the National Opera House on Friday, 25 November 7pm. There are many scientific studies proving that singing has extremely positive effects on your physical and mental health. This very popular and fun workshop is open to all who love to sing. Learn breathing techniques, improve your pos-
Page 84 - 4th November 2022
Join Malachy Robinson in Enniscorthy library where he will talk about his life as a professional musician, his background and training and how he has acquired the skill to play multiple stringed instruments. Through live demonstration and performance this evening promises to be both informative and entertaining. An opportunity for questions will feature as part of the talk. This project has been supported by The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development: Europe investing in rural areas.The event is suitable for anyone aged 18 upwards – no prior knowledge of music necessary! Duration: 1 hour. Book your seat by phone: 053 9236055. n
Slaney artS
Enniscorthy Library...
On the third Thursday of every month the Adult Book Club meets in Enniscorthy Library at 7pm. New members welcome. If you are interested in going along please contact Enniscorthy library on 053 9236055. n
On the last Thursday of every month the Slaney Writers Group meets in Enniscorthy Library at 7pm. New members welcome. If you are interested in going along please contact Enniscorthy library on 053 9236055. n
Author Sheila Forsey's two remaining creative writing classes at The Presentation Arts Centre run right up to mid-December. €25 each. Friday mornings from 10.15am – 12.30pm. Nov 11: Character Development
‘The Cliffhangers’ Junior Book Club is back in the Enniscorthy branch for its monthly meetings – usually the last Thursday of the month. It’s a great way to try new authors and genres and there is no pressure to read aloud. New members are always welcome. If you would like your child to join, please contact 053 9236055 for more information. Suitable for ages 8–12. n
Explore the different aspects that create well rounded, believable characters. Make your villains, heroes, sidekicks, and mysterious background characters unforgettable. Dec 16: Becoming A Better Writer How to continuously develop your craft, avoid those lulls and brick walls, and keep that passion ignited. Places are limited, book in advance to avoid disappointment. 053 9233000. www.presentationcentre.ie n
4th November 2022 - Page 85
Slaney SlaneyartS ad
Enniscorthy author chosen Dublin City Council and Dublin UNESCO City of Literature have just announced that 'The Coroner’s Daughter' by Andrew Hughes is the One Dublin One Book choice for 2023, following on from 'Nora' by Nuala O’Connor in 2022. One Dublin One Book aims to encourage everyone in Dublin to read a designated book connected with the capital city during the month of April every year. This annual project is a Dublin City Council initiative, led by Dublin UNESCO City of Literature and Dublin City Libraries, which encourages reading for pleasure. The initiative is also funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media. Dublin City Librarian, Mairead Owens, says “The Coroner’s Daughter is a story rooted in Dublin city of the early 19th Century with fascinating themes such as forensic science, religion, and the role of women in Ireland at the time. It is also an entertaining detective story, which I’m sure will engage the readers of Dublin and beyond. I’m looking forward to the discussions that will take place among readers next April.” A new One Dublin One Book edition of The Coroner’s Daughter (Penguin-Transworld) will be available to borrow from all public libraries nationwide and to buy from all good book shops. There will be a programme of free events in April to accompany the reading initiative. Andrew says, “I’m so thrilled that The Coroner’s Daughter has been chosen for next year’s One Dublin One Book. The city has always been a huge source of inspiration, providing me with a setting and a cast of characters, and I love uncovering stories hidden in Dublin’s old houses... I sincerely hope readers enjoy following Abigail and her forensic investigations. I can’t wait for the events to begin next April.” The author Andrew Hughes (photo by Frank Gavin Photography) was born in Enniscorthy, educated at the CBS in Enniscorthy and at Trinity College, Dublin. A qualified archivist, he worked for RTÉ before going freelance. It was while researching his social history of Fitzwilliam Square – Lives Less Ordinary: Dublin’s Fitzwilliam Square, 1798-1922 – that he came across the true story of John Delahunt, a Victorian murderer and Dublin Castle informer. His debut novel, The Convictions of John Delahunt, was shortlisted for the Bord Gáis Irish Crime Book of the Year. The Coroner’s Daughter, a tale of a young lady sleuth operating at the dawn of forensic science, was nominated for the CWA Historical Dagger. Andrew lives in Drumcondra, where he continues to work on archival and historical research projects, as well as Dublin-set crime fiction. n
Page 86 - 4th November 2022
Slaney artS
Local showing of local film
Visit Enniscorthy library on 10th November for the showing of "When the Bough Breaks" the second of five new films from Wexford Film Workshop starring a wealth of Wexford acting talent presented by Dubhtíre Films, written and directed by Dick Donaghue and produced by Jer Ennis.
When Joy (Summer Venn Keane) naively falls in love for the first time with a "would-be" rapper, Robbie (Anthony Finn) and snubs her bestie, Mags (Millie O'Reilly) it is exciting at first but soon turns to tragedy as she becomes pregnant and has to face tough decisions. Booking essential. Please register for your place by phoning 053 92 36055.
‘Selskar 18’ launch
At the launch of the book ‘Selskar 18’ at Wexford County Council on 11th October were TJ Grant, John Roche and John Nolan. Below: Anne McCann, Mayor of Wexford Maura Bell who launched the book, and Rose Hickey.
Creative Writing Workshop for Teens with Caroline Busher on Saturday 5th November 2.30-3.30pm at Bunclody Library. This workshop is perfect for teenagers who want to learn more about the craft of writing, whether you are already writing a novel or want to know where to begin. Irish Times Best Selling author Caroline Busher will give you her top tips for success. The workshop will consider the importance of setting, characterisation, plot, dialogue and how to build tension in writing. Booking essential as places are limited, ring 053 93 75466. n
4th November 2022 - Page 87
Slaney Slaney FOOD aD & DRInK
Talk on weight management
All hands on deck
Weight Management with dietitian Sophie Pratt – Gorey Library Thursday, 3rd November, 7.30pm Sophie Pratt, Registered Dietitian, will be at Gorey Library on Thursday 3rd November at 7.30pm for an informative weight management talk. Sophie has extensive knowledge and experience working with a wide range of clients with a variety of dietary requirements, running her own dietetic practice based in Carlow. Booking essential – call the library on 053 9483820. n
Minister Heather Humphreys TD officially opened Our Lady’s Island community centre, playground and tourism office on 6th October 2022. Minister Humphreys is pictured with staff Louise Morris and Jo Flood.
GIY in Enniscorthy GIY (Grow It Yourself) Wexford is holding community meetings and talks on growing in Enniscorthy, on the first Thursday of every month at the IFA Centre, Millpark Road, from 7.30-9.30pm. There's a different topic for each meeting with a Q&A session at the end. It's a chance to connect with other people in the growing community, share information and form a support and advice network. Expect to see folks from the Enniscorthy Community Allotments and Wexford Environmental Network there, and feel free to spread the word to anyone you feel would be interested, everyone is welcome. https://www.facebook.com/groups/209497090137006 n Lime Asian Street Food restaurant is situated in the old River Restaurant premises right in the centre of Enniscorthy, and is offering sit-down Lunch (up to 4pm) and Evening (up to closing time at 10pm) menus, as well as a substantial takeaway menu. The extensive size of the premises has allowed Mister Chen to completely separate the sit-down and takeaway areas. It is now taking bookings for Christmas. Tel: 053 923 6448, 089 216 8823. Keep up to date on Facebook at ‘Lime asian street food’ n
Mister Chen in the extensive seating area in Lime.
Page 88 - 4th November 2022
Mister Chen with staff and family at the takeaway counter in Lime.
Slaney FOOD & DRInK
Wexford SuperValu producers celebrate national success Three Wexford food producers have been recognised at Ireland’s biggest food awards, Blas na hÉireann. The Wexford producers picked up a total of seven awards between them. Pettitt’s SuperValu won Gold for its Chicken, Bacon & Wild Mushroom Vol-Au-Vents, Bronze for its Chicken, Chorizo & Quinoa Soup, Silver for its Katsu Chicken and Gold for its Caesar Salad. Sean Stafford Bakeries Ltd also scooped Silver for both its SuperValu Ancient Grains Bread and SuperValu Batch Loaf. Meanwhile, Tasty Parlour also won Bronze for its Caramel Slice. Now in its 15th year, the Blas na hÉireann awards is the biggest annual competition for quality Irish produce across the island of Ireland with thousands of products entered. SuperValu’s Food Academy food and drink producers picked up a total of 73 awards, made up of 19 gold, 19 silver and 24 bronze as well as five Chef's Larder's, five best in county and the Rogha na Gaeltachta award.
A whopping 19 Co. Wexford food producers made it to the finals of the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards held last month in Dingle and an amazing host of awards came back to the county. Most notably, Stafford's Bakeries claimed an amazing nine awards, Wexford Home Preserves scooped three awards, and Scúp Gelato had an impressive two golds and a silver, and won best product in Co. Wexford. Congrats to all. n
Congratulating the Wexford food producers, Ian Allen, Managing Director, SuperValu said, “Huge congratulations to Pettitt’s SuperValu, Sean Stafford Bakeries and Tasty Parlour and all the Wexford food producers. Without the hard work and commitment to quality from these Irish food producers, we would not have the excellent range of award-winning products available in SuperValu stores. Once again it was a winning year for SuperValu producers at Blas na hÉireann, taking home a total of 119 awards, including 73 awards for our outstanding Food Academy producers. At SuperValu we are committed to supporting more Irish food producers than any other retailer and in delivering both the best quality and value for our customers. Working with more than 1,800 Irish food producers we are immensely proud of our award-winning brands and it’s wonderful to see the local suppliers and producers receive the recognition they richly deserve.” SuperValu Food Academy is a unique food and drink business development programme between SuperValu, Bord Bia and the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs). Participants receive training in market research and branding, food safety, marketing, finance and business development. For more information on the Blas na hÉireann awards, SuperValu Food Academy and for a full list of SuperValu winners visit supervalu.ie n
Wexford SuperValu producers are celebrating after winning seven awards at Blas na hÉireann Awards. Pettitt’s SuperValu won four awards for its SuperValu range and pictured are staff members, Agnieszka Zaganizyk, Thomas Orme and Dreda Turner.
Enniscorthy Community Allotments Local people growing their own food in an organic and sustainable way at the new allotments situated at Gort Na Gréine, Enniscorthy, beside the Enniscorthy Sports Hub. There is a waiting list in operation so get your name on it here: https://www.enniscorthycommunityallotments.ie/contact-us.php To find out more: Email: enniscorthyallotments@gmail.com
http://www.enniscorthycommunityallotments.ie/ https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorthycommunityallotments n
4th November 2022 - Page 89
Slaney Slaney FOOD aD & DRInK
Afternoon tea by the sea Time to indulge yourself with Afternoon Tea by the sea at Coast Rosslare Strand. The spectacular location makes for a truly unique experience. Celebrating something special? Why not treat yourself to a glass of prosecco or a dressed gin and tonic which can be added to your Afternoon Tea on request. Afternoon Tea is served daily between 11am and 6pm. €20 per person or €25 including Prosecco. Contact the hotel today at banquetingmanager@coastrosslarestrand.com or call 053 9132010. Gift vouchers available. n
Congrats to Wexford culinary arts student Two South East Technological University (SETU) culinary arts students were awarded joint second place in the ‘Culinary Student Award’ at the recent Irish Food Writing Awards. Led by lecturer and renowned chef Edward Hayden, BA (Hons) Culinary Arts students David Harte from Wexford town and Ryan McGowan from Arklow competed in the inaugural category and were rewarded with a second place finish at an awards ceremony in Dublin’s Fallon & Byrne last month.
Pictured at the Irish Food Awards competition is David Harte, SETU student from Wexford town.
Edward Hayden says, “Engagement within communities is so important and it was a wonderful achievement for the food writing students to qualify to compete in these awards.” The competition was two-pronged and required students to construct a piece of writing about their chosen dishes, their inspiration and the rationale for their choice. The second element of the competition was to compete in a live cook-off where their dishes were adjudicated by well-known chefs Jess Murphy, Kai Restaurant and Irish Times columnist, and Gareth Mullins, execute chef from Dublin’s Marker Hotel and commissioner general Euro Toques. n
L-R: Edward Hayden (SETU lecturer), David Harte (SETU student from Wexford town), Jess Murphy (Judge), Annisa Mokhtari (TUD), Gareth Mullins (Judge), Ryan McGowan (SETU student from Arklow), Annette Sweeny (TUD).
Page 90 - 4th November 2022
Slaney aD
Your local Slimming World Consultants in Enniscorthy
Providing you with a huge choice of sessions throughout the week: Tuesdays @ 6.30pm The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop Call Tony on 087 1785384 Wednesdays @ 9.30am, 11.00am, 5.30pm and 7.00pm Enniscorthy Rugby Club Call Trish on 087 3607615 Saturdays @ 9.00am and 10.30am The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop Call Tony on 087 1785384
4th November 2022 - Page 91
Slaney Slaney FOOD aD & DRInK
Tried-Tested-Tasted by Caitriona Caitriona Barron from Drinagh, Wexford, grew up on her dad’s farm with plentiful homegrown veg and their own meat so “we really knew the value of good food. My mother started a seafood business after meeting my stepfather fisherman, my brother now runs the seafood business so I’m well used to fresh food.” “I worked with the family business before leaving to be a stay-at-home mother but soon got bored (lol!) and started taking pics of my food, sharing my recipes on social media. When people started showing interest, I realised this could be a job so I bought myself a camera and threw myself in the deep of it. I love it and I get to work with amazing companies. Seeing my pictures in magazines, in shops, and occasionally on TV is pretty amazing. “I’m a mother of two boys and, yes, juggling it all can be very tough. But I keep it going as it’s my passion now and it’s very rewarding.” https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted and Caitriona_barron on insta n
CREAMY CHICKEN KORMA
Caitriona Barron
Serves 4-5 – mild – nutty – creamy Ingredients: 4 tbs ghee or vegetable oil 1 large onion or 2 small peeled and chopped 6 crushed cardamom 5 cloves 1/2 tsp black pepper 1/2 tsp turmeric 1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp chilli flakes 1/2 tsp nutmeg 1/2 paprika 2 bay leaf 1 cinnamon stick 40g cashew nuts soaked in a little water for 1 hour prior Ginger garlic paste: 4 cloves 1” garlic, blend with a little water 3 tbs tomato purée 150ml water or chicken stock 3 tbs cream 30g butter Blend in a little water to make a paste 700g cubed chicken breast 250ml Killowen natural yogurt Instructions: Heat oil or ghee, cinnamon stick, cloves, bay leaf, cardamom pods, sauté for 2 mins. Add onions, cook until onions are soft – about 5 mins. Add ginger garlic paste, spices and tomato purée, mix well, cook over low heat for 2 mins, add pepper and water or stock, stir well. Optional for smooth sauce – remove cinnamon stick and bay leaf, set aside, blend the mix in a blender, add back to the pan with cinnamon and bay leaf. Stir in chicken cover and simmer for 15 mins. In the meantime blend yogurt and nuts in water with salt. Add to chicken, cook for 5 mins, add cream and butter, cook for 5 mins. Serve with fresh coriander and enjoy. n
Page 92 - 4th November 2022
Pic: Caitriona Barron. https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted
Slaney FOOD & DRInK Angelo (centre) and team at Alba just prior to its closure.
Comings and goings in the restaurant trade THANKS TO ANGELO, KATIA AND TEAM FOR 12 YEARS OF SERVICE, AND BEST OF LUCK FOR THE FUTURE… The closure last month of Alba Restaurant in Enniscorthy represents a great loss to the town, both for locals and visitors. A statement was issued by proprietor Angelo and read as follows: “Started in the recession just over 12 years ago, Alba had served the locals and the tourists with passion, responsibility and respect for people, food and drinks. Alba had grown fuelled by the best clientele and staff, who made its venue friendly, genuine and happy. “But now is time to face another possible economic crash, by following a different path, moving on to the next chapter. A different one. “Special thanks go to the pillars of the Alba, that over the years had grown also professionally, leaving a significant positive impact to the business. We name a few: Niamh Walsh (2010-2015): Thank you. Carlotta Rondi (2015-2017): Thank you. Jack Treacy (2014-2018): Thank you. Laura Smite (2018-2021): Thank you. Brian Moran (2021-2022): Thank you. “Main pillar and influencer: Katia Panepinto. Thank you for supporting this cause
with your incomparable backup work, patience and care. “Special thanks go to John Murphy, chairman of the Blackstairs Blues Festival, who helped initiate the Live Music in Alba in 2013. Also to Mairead Ennis, his wife, being his muse! Thank you. “Amongst many important musicians that have played in the Alba I thank especially Edmund Crean and Richard King, for their constant help in creating the best and most suitable and beloved ambiance. Again, thank you. “My family and staff thank all the suppliers and competitors immensely (also the ones that tried to drag us down, but
less immensely!) for making us grow the confidence to succeed and continue to do so until now. Again, thank you! “Zane Sutra, Susanna D’Ascenzi, Tina Fortune, Anne Martin Walsh thank you for displaying and selling your wonderful paintings. The artist Zane Sutra is to double mention and thank for painting the beautiful mural of Cefalù, Sicily, that has accompanied us through the journey. “Angelo and the above mentioned thank all the customers, especially the regulars, who made it a cult, creating a unique, original vibe. Again, thank you so, so much. “Alba (19-06-2010 – 09-10-2022). THANK YOU. Goodbye.” n
D’lush Café re-opens After being seven months closed due to major renovation works at Wexford Arts Centre, the award-winning D’lush Café has reopened its doors at the Arts Centre and is now open Monday to Saturday 9am-4pm.
4th November 2022 - Page 93
Slaney Slaney FOOD aD & DRInK
ICA cookery demo Ferrycarrig Hot
Wexford Federation Irish Countrywomen's Asso Cookery Demonstrati with Edward Hayden Ferrycarraig Hotel, 12th October 2022
Page 94 - 4th November 2022
Slaney FOOD & DRInK
in the tel
n– ociation ion n in , 2.
4th November 2022 - Page 95
Slaney buSIneSS Slaney aD & FInance
Celebrating 25 years Smyth’s Homevalue – awarded “Best Paint Store in Ireland” Smyth’s Homevalue, Enniscorthy, accepted three awards last month – winner in the ‘Best Paint Store in Leinster’ category and ‘Overall Best Paint Store in Ireland’. And in addition won ‘Best Digital Presence’ in the Homevalue Group. Collecting the awards on behalf of all the team at Smyth’s were proprietors Dermot and Betty Kavanagh pictured opposite. n
Datapac delivers on €200,000 deal Enniscorthy’s Datapac has delivered an integrated digital transformation solution to the National Opera House, Wexford, in a deal worth over €200,000. This refresh is enhancing the National Opera House’s ability to deliver world-class experiences to guests, artists and employees alike. Full details in next month’s issue of Slaney News. n
Page 96 - 4th November 2022
Minister James Browne TD: “I was delighted to get a tour of BD, Enniscorthy, and meet staff and management. They are celebrating their 25th year in Enniscorthy and with almost 500 staff they play a huge part in our local economy. A very professional company making state of the art medical devices that save lives all over the world.”
Slaney buSIneSS & FInance
Feasibility Study Grants Feasibility Study Grants are designed to assist the promoter with researching market demand for a product or service and examining its sustainability. It includes assistance with innovation including specific consultancy requirements, hiring of expertise from third level colleges, private specialists, design and prototype development. The maximum Feasibility Study Grant payable shall be 50% of the investment or €15,000 whichever is the lesser. Expenditure may be considered under the following headings: Market Research - Consultancy Costs - Technical Development/Prototype/ Innovation - Salary/Own Labour Research - Miscellaneous Costs Please contact Wexford LEO for an application form for the Feasibility Study Grant. Phone: 053 919 6020. Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie n
Business supports The Business Expansion Grant is designed to assist a business in its growth phase after the initial 18 month start-up period. Sole traders, partnerships or limited companies that fulfill the following criteria can apply: -
Located and operating within the LEO geographic area. A business, which, on growth, will have the capacity to progress to the Enterprise Ireland portfolio A business employing up to 10 employees A manufacturing or internationally traded service business A domestically traded service business with the potential to trade internationally.
For more information and how to apply click here: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Financial-Supports/Business-Expansion-Grant/ The Agile Innovation Fund is now available for small businesses: Introduced by Enterprise Ireland, the Agile fund will help clients of LEO Wexford respond more quickly to market opportunities and challenges like Brexit. Offering fast-track approval and a streamlined online application process, the new Agile Innovation Fund will allow companies to access up to 45% or 50% in support for product, process or service development projects with a total cost of up to €300,000.
For more information click: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Financial-Supports/Agile%20Innovation%20Fund/ n
Green for Micro Sign up for The Local Enterprise Office Green For Micro programme – helping your business prepare for the low carbon, more resource efficient economy of the future. Book Now: https://bit.ly/3zW6RBn This FREE initiative is available to companies with up to ten employees, and provides the mentorship and technical support your business needs to go green, covering such as resource efficiency, understanding your carbon footprint, reducing costs and implementing an environmental management system. n
4th November 2022 - Page 97
Slaney buSIneSS Slaney aD & FInance
National Women’s Enterpr
National Women's Enterprise Day in the Ashdown Park Hotel, Gorey, 13th October 2022. L-R: Joanne Hession MC, Chupi Sweetman (jewellery designer), Trudie Power (Trudies Kitchen), Michelle O'Neill (international soccer referee), Breege Cosgrave (LEO). Pic: Mary Browne.
National Women’s Enterprise Day, Wexford, 2022. On Thursday 13th October 2022 over 100 female entrepreneurs, women in business and female-led businesses from all over County Wexford gathered in Gorey’s Ashdown Park Hotel to celebrate National Women’s Enterprise Day (NWED) 2022. This was the first opportunity post-covid to gather in person and attend this much anticipated business event. According to Breege Cosgrave, Local Enterprise Office Wexford, who this year is the National Co-ordinator for
NWED, the event was about celebrating female leadership, and looking at female innovation and female thinking about the issues that all business are facing this year. “Women are very innovative, very adaptable and very flexible in their thinking – these are the skills that we need to harness now to secure the future.” The line-up of speakers included well known Wexford food entrepreneur Laura Sinnott of Wexford Home Preserves. Laura was declared Wexford Local Enterprise Office’s Leading Light for 2022 – a Leading Light is a business person who has come through Local Enterprise
Above left: Joanne Hession and Dr. Maureen McIntosh Alberts. Above right: Joanne Hession MC, Liz Hore (Wexford County Council), Chupi Sweetman (jewellery designer), Laura Sinnott (Wexford Home Preserves), Michelle O'Neill (international soccer refeeree), Breege Cosgrave (LEO) and Trudie Power (Trudies Kitchen). Pics: Mary Browne.
Page 98 - 4th November 2022
Slaney buSIneSS & FInance
rise Day 2022 in Wexford Office services and have proven themselves to be an inspirational ambassador for other female-led businesses and entrepreneurs. Also speaking on the day was Wexford’s own international soccer referee Michelle O’Neill who shared her insights on leadership, inspiration and pushing boundaries in sport and in business. The parallels between succeeding in sport and in business were clear and Michelle’s insider information into the world of international top-level sport was fascinating and intriguing. n
Above L-R: Trudie Power from Trudies Kitchen, Laura Sinnott from Wexford Home Preserves and Laura Callaghan from Visit New Ross. Pic: Mary Browne. Below right: Trudie Power from Trudies Kitchen and Liz Hore, Wexford County Council. Pic: Mary Browne.
4th November 2022 - Page 99
Slaney buSIneSS Slaney aD & FInance
Wexford jewellery designer’s national award Congratulations to Wexford jewellery designer Bláithín Ennis who won the esteemed ‘Jewellery’ category at the Irish Made Awards last month. Sponsored by Irish Country Magazine, the event aims to highlight the very best of design throughout the island of Ireland. Bláithín would like to thank all her customers for their votes and the continued support of her brand. The designer recently completed her fourth season designing for Paul Costelloe SS23 at London Fashion Week. This season, her jewellery was entirely made from seashells sourced along the coast of North-
ern Ireland. The collection embodied delicate encrusted earrings, alongside
large painterly structured pieces. See more at www.blaithinennis.com n
Calling all business start-ups SETU Carlow Campus in collaboration with SETU Waterford Campus and Enterprise Ireland is currently recruiting for its 2022/2023 New Frontiers Programme for Entrepreneurs. The intensive training and support programme provides desk space, mentoring, business master classes, networking plus €15,000 in financial support to accelerate business start-ups. Closing date for Phase 1 applications is Monday, November 14th at 5pm. For an application form, contact info@eric-network.ie or phone 059 9175220. New Frontiers Phase 1 is scheduled to commence on 21st November 2022. Phase 2 will commence in 2023. n
Page 100 - 4th November 2022
Slaney buSIneSS & FInance
Waters marks 25 years in Ireland with €6m expansion in Wexford On 7th October 2022, Waters Corporation announced a combined investment of up to €6 million with support from IDA Ireland to expand its operations in Drinagh, Wexford, to fund research and development of new clinical diagnostics products. The operational expansion at the Wexford facility will create new scientific jobs through 2024. The announcement marks 25 years of doing business in Ireland for Waters. Waters’ Wexford facility, with 400 employed at the site today, is the company’s primary site for manufacturing and delivery of its portfolio of in-vitro diagnostic (IVD) systems, reagent kits, and software used by thousands of hospitals
Pic: Paula Malone Carty.
L-R: Niamh Naughton, Project Executive, MedTech, IDA Ireland, Rachel Shelley, Dept Manager, MedTech, IDA Ireland, Chris Ross, Waters Corp. Senior Vice President, Operations (USA) , Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise Trade & Employment, Leo Varadkar TD, Liam Hore, Waters Corp. Head of Wexford Operations, Kristen Garvey, Vice President Corporate Communications (USA), Mary Buckley, IDA Ireland Executive Director, Leanne Davy, Waters Corp. Senior Dir. Clinical.
and laboratories worldwide for applications that include health screening for millions of newborn babies. “This is a fantastic investment in Wexford by Waters Corporation which will bolster the thriving life sciences cluster in the region,” said Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar TD. “The Government is committed to job creation in all corners of our country, and we are creating the right environment for investment in the SouthEast with improved road, port and broadband infrastructure as well as the new Technological University. Ireland has
become recognised globally for our workforce talent, including the scientific research which is making big advances in medical technologies and diagnostics software. “This €6 million R&D investment will further improve Waters’ mass spectrometry offerings for clinical diagnostics,” he continued. “These developments have real-life impacts, improving the outcome for many conditions, including early disease detection. Waters Corporation is a global leader and a significant employer in Wexford where it has operated for 25 years. I wish the team every continued success.” n
L-R: Tom Enright, CEO Wexford County Council, Cllr George Lawlor, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, James Browne, Minister for Law Reform, Lorcan Kinsella, President of County Wexford Chamber, Chris Ross, Waters Corp. Senior Vice President, Operations (USA), Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise Trade & Employment, Leo Varadkar TD, Liam Hore, Waters Corp. Head of Wexford Operations, Kristen Garvey, Vice President Corporate Communications (USA), Mary Buckley, IDA Ireland Executive Director, Leanne Davy, Waters Corp. Senior Dir. Clinical, Cllr Maura Bell, Mayor of Wexford, Paul Kehoe TD and Brendan Howlin TD. Pic: Paula Malone Carty.
4th November 2022 - Page 101
Slaney SlaneypetS aD
South East Animal Rescue – Rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming
The South East Animal Rescue (SEAR) charity shop at 27 Court Street, Enniscorthy, has had a major makeover and is now open for business again. All are invited to call in and grab a bargain. All proceeds go towards kennelling/feeding and vet bills. SEAR rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes animals in the South East of Ireland. It has a strict no-kill policy and all animals for rehoming are vaccinated, neutered and spayed when of age, undergo a health check, and are temperament tested, before being rehomed into suitably assessed, loving homes.
https://southeastanimalrescue.com/contact/ southeastanimalrescue@gmail.com SEAR is in need of volunteer drivers who would be willing to pick up dogs, cats or kittens and take them for their vet appointments at Borovalley or to drop off at fosterers. SEAR will reimburse petrol costs. Please email southeastanimalrecue@gmail.com with your Eircode and a contact number if you can assist.
Page 102 - 4th November 2022
Slaney petS
MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. T: (053) 9233187, 9236674. F: (053) 9236674. E: moynevet@gmail.com
VET DIARY FOR NOV
with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital
The hour has changed back to Winter time and it’s al-
works and that's very understandable... but the dogs
most as if Mother Nature knew because the mild
in the immediate area often get very frightened and
gentle Autumn days changed to wet windy and
it does take a lot out of them. Fortunately there are
storms nearly overnight!!
different remedies that can alleviate this stress from
Each season brings its own magic and Winter is no different. The light on a sunny November day is softer and there is something really great about sitting in at a warm, hearthy fire with the wind howling outside, tucked up with a good book or a good film on the telly. The dogs love coming in and lying by the fire enjoying
flower remedies to homeopathic remedies which can be very effective in helping these dogs dissipate the anxiousness brought on by fireworks. The more I learn about these remedies, the more I realise how many ways they can be used and have a place in everyday veterinary practice.
the same creature comforts that we do. I'd see my own
The beauty of these is that they can work very gen-
dogs fast asleep there dreaming away, muscles twitch-
tly on these animals and don't tend to have adverse
ing, legs paddling, deeply engrossed in a dream chasing foxes or rabbits across the open fields and woods. I love watching them like this – lost to the world in a dreamy state.
reactions or side-effects which can be the case with the standard medicines such as sedatives, etc. As I explore this whole world more and more, it becomes more fascinating and a whole new vista of
At this time of year not all the dogs are nice and calm,
possibilities opens up to how we can treat our noble
the fireworks put some dogs into a very anxious and
friends and fellow dreamers in a gentle and non in-
frightened state. I suppose people who don't have dogs
vasive way. It dovetails well in with ordinary medi-
but whose kids are all excited about Halloween don't
cine becoming an integrative medicine which for me
think of anything except getting to let off their fire-
is the way of the future... 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
4th November 2022 - Page 103
Slaney Slaney mOtORIng aD
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
KIA NIRO The Kia Niro was first introduced to Ireland back in 2016. It was a bit of a trendsetter at the time. Not only was it styled as a crossover – customers love them – but it also spawned a successful Niro plug-in hybrid and the jewel in the crown – the electric 'e-Niro'. Now Kia has had a chance to revisit the Niro and create an all-new version. But electrification remains a key theme with plug-in hybrid and EV versions available, and an upcoming full hybrid. The electric Niro offers up to 460 kilometres of range and doesn’t cost much more to buy than the hybrid.
The new Kia Niro plug-in hybrid I’ve been testing goes on sale in Ireland priced from €39,700, while the Niro EV is available from €41,775. The attraction of the plug-in hybrid is the all-electric driving range of up to 59 kilometres, but there’s a 1.6-litre petrol engine at its core. The new Niro seems to look the part more now of a small, trendy crossover. It's found new direction within the brand's new generation of vehicles like the Sportage and EV6. Kia's design has been evolving over the years and the Niro wears the brand's avant-garde new
design language very well to stand out on the road as something a little bit different. 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights come as standard for a stylish presence. Inside, there has been a transformation as well. Niro feels more modern and youthful than before, with some very impressive digital displays. A 10.25-inch touchscreen comes as standard and suitably modernises the cabin of the Niro. It's all very simple and intuitive to use, while the cabin quality feels good as well. In Ireland the Niro PHEV is available in
Kia Niro
Page 104 - 4th November 2022
Slaney mOtORIng two trim levels, packed with equipment - the K3 (from €39,700) and the K4 (from €42,700). Standard features on K3 models include heated front seats, dualzone automatic air conditioning, wireless phone charger and Apple Car Play and Android Auto with voice control. There are also Interior lots of standard safety features like lane keep assist, lane follow assist, adaptive cruise control and blind-spot collision avoidance. The Niro is not cheap but that's a lot of equipment. The new Niro sits on a new platform and though it looks compact on the outside, it's surprisingly roomy inside. Naturally, it's not the widest car so three might feel a squeeze in the back. But for two adults or children, it does feel roomy enough. The boot can muster 348 litres of space in the plug-in hybrid. Some hatchbacks have more space these days, though it's still a decent usable boot. The Niro EV actually has a bigger boot of over 400 litres. For this new generation of the Niro, Kia
has made some suspension and steering improvements for a more enjoyable and responsive drive. There's also been the addition of more insulation and padding around the vehicle’s structure to reduce engine and road noise. On the road the Niro PHEV does appear to have grownup. It feels more driver-focused now despite its efficient powertrain. It's more refined than before so the cabin is more relaxing. The power output of the hybrid is a healthy 183hp so there’s power when you want it too. There is still a bias to efficiency, but it's a good one. Without charging the battery my fuel consumption was less than 5.0 litres per 100 kilometres, which is very impressive.
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 Kia brand has real momentum in Ireland with bestsellers like the new Kia Sportage and the EV6. Now the brand has a real chance to make impact in the more compact side of the market, with the new Niro boasting some of the most sought after electrified powertrains and a more stylish design and digital interior. It is expensive to buy, but Kia has packed the Niro with equipment, which goes some way to justify it. The real boon here is of course effiency. The plug-in hybrid is an introduction to electric motoring, but if you forget to charge the battery, it remains a very fuel-efficient car. Model tested: Kia Niro K4 Price: €42,700 Engine: 1.6-litre petrol electric plug-in hybrid Power: 183hp Torque: 265Nm Top speed: 161 km/h Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 9.8 seconds Motor Tax: €140 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. 4th November 2022 - Page 105
Slaney Slaney SpORt aD
Kickboxing success for local club Wexford-based Dynamic Kickboxing Academy, under coach Robbie Sludds, had eight fighters representing Ireland at the recent World Kickboxing Champioships held in Killarney, and secured an impressive medal haul.
Dynamic Kickboxing Academy team representing Ireland
Coach Robbie says, “I am so proud to be the coach of these wonderful, inspiring and dedicated group of young fighters who brought their A GAME to the mats... and fought their hearts out to be champions.” Mia Byrne: 2 Gold and silver Alfie Murphy: Gold and Bronze Breanna Sludds Keane: Silver and Bronze Shauna Hume: Silver and Bronze Abby Dooley: Silver and Bronze Cora Harris: 3 Bronze Kelly Dooley: Bronze Evelyn Walker: Bronze The coach also thanked the families of the fighters, “Most of all to the families who travelled down to support us. Dy-
namic Kickboxing Academy wouldn’t be where it is without your continuous support and help all year round not just at these tournaments. Thank you from the bottom of my heart because ye are the
backbone of our Kickboxing Academy and ye should all be given gold medals as the best supporters in the land, I am so grateful and blessed for everyone of ye. THANK YOU.” n
Enniscorthy greyhound track news Racing is on Thursday nights only in November and December with first race off at 7.30pm.
Page 106 - 4th November 2022
The Track is now taking bookings for Christmas Parties. See ad on page 10. The recent Lord of Charity Event was a
huge success with over €3,000 being raised for local charities. More details in next month’s issue. n
Slaney SpORt
Enniscorthy’s Paul Conroy wins in the US Enniscorthy hit a purple patch last month in the US with success for two of the town’s young sportsmen.
The eagerly awaited new Astro Pitch project at Ross Road, Enniscorthy, is expected to come before the elected members of Enniscorthy Municipal District later this month.
On the day after Jordan Gainford rode Hewick to victory in the Grand National at Far Hills, Enniscorthy Golf Club member Paul Conroy won the Wolfpack Intercollegiate golf tournament in Raleigh, N.C.
The Part VIII planning process has been completed, the appointment of project managers is imminent and the procurement of a suitable contractor is expected to commence later this month. The project should be completed by April 2023.
The Chattanooga second-year student won by two strokes for his first collegiate victory. Opening rounds of 70 and 74 had him back in the pack before a sensational 62 saw him top the leaderboard, going out in 29, including a hole-in-one, and coming home in 33. Afterwards Paul said, as reported in The Echo, “It feels great to finally get over the line... I’ve been close a lot of times. I battled at the finish. I was 2 over on the closing holes yesterday and got two birdies today, which turned out to be the
Ross Road astro pitch
Conroy won first collegiate with final round 62
difference. I hit every shot where I wanted it to go today. It was a pretty enjoyable round with everything going the right way.” n
The question of a playing pitch at the centre of the running track at the Enniscorthy Sports Hub came up at the October meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District. The District Manager and Cathaoirleach informed the meeting that it is under review. We’ll keep our readers up to date on this story. n
World champion Sports snippets... visits Leinster House Congratulations to Enniscorthy’s Charlie Tector on winning his first Leinster senior rugby cap last month. Congrats to jockey Jordan Gainford on his victory last month in the USA Grand National.
Congrats to Mike Morrissey of Enniscorthy’s Sacre Coeur boxing club on becoming All Ireland Senior Champion. Hard luck on Wexford Youths Women on narrowly missing out on being national league champions losing at home to Shelbourne on the final day of the season. The Waterfront Pool and Leisure Centre and The Slaney Sharks Swimming Club would like to thank everyone who volunteered and participated in their first triathlon on Sunday 9th October. It was a fun filled day with friendly competition. The organisers would like to thank all the sponsors of the event and look forward to doing it all again next year.
World Kickboxing Champion and Creagh College student in Gorey, TJ Redmond, visited Leinster House recently for a tour and met with Senator Malcolm Byrne and Sports Minster Jack Chambers to discuss the future of the sport and support for young athletes.
Shamrocks GAA club’s video is worth checking out featuring committee member Derek Long talking about the major investment the club has made in new facilities – fencing, better access paths, new walking track, new floodlights, second pitch development, and there are more plans in the pipeline. See: https://www.facebook.com/103532402110364/videos/5853 24419927102 We omitted to include in recent issues that Enniscorthy Athletic Club women’s team were crowned National League Division 1 Champions back in August. A huge achievement. n
4th November 2022 - Page 107
Slaney Slaney SpORt aD
Official opening of new community facilities at Ferns GAA
Minister Heather Humphreys officially opens the new community gym and recreation facilities at St Aidan’s GAA centre, Ferns, on 6th October 2022. L-R: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cllr Jackser Owens, Cllr Cathal Byrne, Cllr Oliver Walsh, Cllr George Lawlor (Cathaoirleach Wexford Co. Council), Minister Humphreys, Minister James Brown TD, Club Chairperson Eoin Gethings, Brian Kehoe (Wexford Local Development), Paul Kehoe TD, Johnny Mythen TD, Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan, Tom Enright (CEO Wexford Co. Council). Pic: Mary Browne. Below left: Minister Heather Humphreys testing out the new facilities with, standing L-R, Paul Kehoe TD, Minister James Browne TD, Cllr George Lawlor and local woman Theresa Bailey. Pic: Mary Browne. Below right: Johnny Mythen TD and Club Chairperson Eoin Gethings with the Dr. R.J. Bowe Cup.
Page 108 - 4th November 2022
Slaney SpORt
Above left: Cllr Jackser Owens with the Dr. R.J. Bowe Cup. Above right: Minister Heather Humphreys with club Chairperson Eoin Gethings and Tom Enright, CEO Wexford County Council. Pic: Mary Browne. Below: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy with Minister James Browne TD.
4th November 2022 - Page 109
Slaney Slaney SpORt aD
Maria at the GAA’s grassroots
What a night in Croke Park as GAA President Larry McCarthy launched Grassroots – a compilation by PJ Cunningham of GAA stories from every corner of Ireland. I am so proud to have my story about Bellefield included and mentioned by both PJ and President McCarthy in their speeches. What an honour it was to hear my name and Bellefield and my story about the day BBC Presenter Terry Wogan came to Bellefield with Billy Rackard to film a hurling match for a programme going out on the BBC called My Ireland. What an honour also to to meet the great Brian McEniff, Gerry McLoughlin and hear his wonderful poem The Song of a Hurler and Mai Leonard and her nostalgic story about Arthur Guinness, and thank you very much to Mai who presented me with a copy of her book. A truly memorable evening and thank you to PJ Cunningham and the GAA for making it all possible. The book Grassroots - The Second Half is available at all bookstores and, as President McCarthy says, is a history of the GAA for the generations to come – so very proud to be part of that. – Maria Nolan
Grassroots people in the spotlight GAA President Larry McCarthy said “grassroots people” seldom got the spotlight for what they do but by writing their own accounts as part of this series of books, their storytelling would become part of the social and cultural history for the present and future generations. The President was speaking as he launched ‘Grassroots -The Second Half, Stories from the heart of the GAA’ at Croke Park which was edited by author and journalist, PJ Cunningham. It features amusing, entertaining and dramatic tales from members and followers of the GAA at every level with gripping contributions also from such well-known sportspeople as former Antrim All-Star hurler, Sambo McNaughton, former rugby star Ollie Campbell, snooker star Ken Doherty, Kerry playwright John B Keane and Galway All-Ireland winner John Connolly. Among the Wexford stories were amusing and gripping tales told by Maria Nolan, Davy Donohoe and the late Kilmore Quay native Matthew Maddock. “I’m not sure if there is some poetic licence in some of them,” the President joked, “but I do know I’ve enjoyed the two volumes that I’ve read and I hope there is more to come because these books are shining a mirror into how and why the GAA has become such a pillar within Irish society. “The reach and influence of the GAA and the focal point it provides in so many communities ensures it has attained a special status in the lives of so many. The GAA is essentially about people and places and these two powerful ingredients feature in many of the stories submitted for publication.” Editor PJ Cunningham said it was fitting that Croke Park was the setting for the launch because the writers’ stories were being acknowledged at the very highest level by the GAA.
Page 110 - 4th November 2022
Editor PJ Cunningham and GAA President Larry McCarthy with Noel Barry and his son Peter, Drinagh, Wexford town, at the launch of 'Grassroots - The Second Half' last month.
“The contributors have unearthed a treasure trove of local stories which would die out if not put in book form and these can broaden the understanding of what the GAA means. “They used to say it was the Catholic Church, Fianna Fáil and the GAA which was at the core of Irish life – the first two have shrunk in terms of influence but the GAA continues to grow,” he emphasised. The stories are a treasure trove of memories, tales and incidents reflecting the emergence of Irish nationhood in all its guises. ‘Grassroots - The Second Half’ is published by Ballpoint Press and retails at €19.99. It is available online and in all good bookshops nationwide. n
Slaney SpORt
WEXFORD APPLICATIONS FOR TEXACO ‘SUPPORT FOR SPORT’ FUNDING INVITED
Applications from sports clubs in Co. Wexford and beyond are now invited under the third Texaco Support for Sport initiative in which a fund of €130,000 will be divided in €5,000 amounts and distributed to successful applicants in each of the twenty-six counties. Over the past two years, a gross figure of €260,000 has been divided amongst 52 sports clubs across Ireland, of which €5,000 each went to two successful Co. Wexford clubs: Kilmore United FC (2021) and Menapians Athletic Club (2022). Open to all sports clubs irrespective of sporting discipline, size, membership, age, cultural appeal or gender (including clubs that may have made an unsuccessful application previously), the initiative is one that ‘recognises and supports the
valuable contribution that sports clubs make to communities and throughout Irish society’.
is sought, and the use to which the funds
Launching the 2023 programme, James Twohig, Director of Ireland Operations, Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited – the company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand – described the initiative as one that “opens up an avenue to funding for those clubs and communities that need it most.”
must be properly constituted and supply
Following lines similar to that which proved successful over the past two years, clubs wishing to apply should first register their interest on www.TexacoSupportforSport.com, followed, before closing date, by a completed application that should include details of their sporting activity, the importance of the club in their local community, the purpose for which the funding
will be put. A sole qualifying requirement is that clubs confirmation of a valid Games & Sports Exemption number (GS number) issued by the Office of the Revenue Commissioners. Closing date for applications is 31st January 2023 with adjudication taking place thereafter. Leading the process once again is Texaco Support for Sport ambassador, broadcaster and former Irish rugby international, Donncha O’Callaghan. Clubs that received funding to date span the spectrum of Irish sporting activity – athletics, badminton, basketball, boxing, camogie, climbing, cricket, diving, gaelic football, golf, handball, hockey, hurling, rowing, rugby, soccer and tennis amongst them. n
4th November 2022 - Page 111
Slaney Slaney SpORt aD
Enniscorth A ‘gatheration’ of hurlers came together from both sides of the town and from Wexford town for the Robert Tex Byrne Memorial challenge, where a combination of Rapparees/ Shamrocks took on the Faythe Harriers at Robert’s home club, Bellefield, on Sunday 30th October. At 2pm on the rather clement October day, Under 15s from Rapparees and Faythe Harriers gave a fine display in the curtain raiser suitably whetting the appetite for the main event sponsored by MRA Electrical and Malocca’s Fine Foods. With the huge crowd hungry for hurling (it seems like a very long time since the Championship) a decent dish of it was served up with the Harriers getting off to an amazing start but the combined efforts of Rapps and Rocks pulling back the lead and advancing to take the spoils. In the packed clubhouse Seamus Byrne, brother of the late Robert, thanked everyone for coming, along with the sponsors and the organising committee, on behalf of his parents Larry and Betty and sister Sue. A presentation was made to the Harriers in appreciation of their participation and a trophy presented to joint winning captains Ben Edwards, Rapparees, and Bob Jacob, Shamrocks. Special recognition was given to Paul
Page 112 - 4th November 2022
Slaney SpORt
hy’s unique hurling occasion Scott for his great score of a point and the referee Eamonn Furlong was presented with a cake and a rendition of Happy Birthday as he celebrated his 40th on the day. Then it was all hurls blazing, as the young and not so young hurlers gathered in groups all around the Bellefield function room to revive old friendships, relive old rivalries, remember old friends and relate many tall tales and believe me as the evening grew longer the tales grew tails. It was nice to see hurling back at Bellefield, but it was even nicer to see the camaraderie, respect and friendship that the game of hurling generates in our community and uplifting and inspiring to see how it unities us and bonds us forever despite world pandemics and the trials and tribulations of life. Robert would indeed have been smiling down on all and would have been delighted to see so many of his old friends and clubmates relive, reminisce and reiterate how important this amazing game is in all our lives, and what a legacy it leaves. All monies collected will go to local charities – Meals on Wheels and St. Mary’s Cemetery. It was a beautiful occasion and one that no-one wanted to leave. – Words and pics by Maria Nolan Top left: Joints Captains Ben Edwards (Rapparees) and Bob Jacob (Shamrocks) receiving trophy from Seamus Byrne. Above left: Larry Byrne, Willie Walsh and Eddie Kelly. Far left: Adrian Fenlon, Larry O’Gorman, Declan Ruth. Left: Liam Ryan and Lee Chin. Top right: Tomas Mahon, Paul Scott, Padge Walsh, Jason Russell, Anthony Russell. Above right: Tony Sack Walsh, Adrian Fenlon. Right: Declan Ivers, Fiacre Ryan, Jim Holden and Brian Ivers All pics: Maria Nolan.
4th November 2022 - Page 113
Slaney Slaney SpORt aD
Rugby Round Up by Tomás Herlihy Enniscorthy Rugby Club Senior XV Enniscorthy - 12, Dungannon - 32
had three players sent to the sin bin over the course of the game.
On a miserable day at Alcast Park on Saturday 29th October, Enniscorthy’s first half lead could not be held as Dungannon scored four consecutive tries to get the win by a score of 32 to 12.
“A snapshot of what happened in the game is that we were probably dominated in the scrum a bit, and then sustained a good few injuries with Angelo getting injured and then after coming on, Grant got injured as well, so we couldn’t really find traction in the scrum for the most part.”
The home side looked the part in the first half, with Nick Doyle getting a try in the opening ten minutes of the game that was converted by Ben Kidd before Dungannon put up three points on the board from the boot of fullback Ben McCaughey from a penalty. Enniscorthy answered back with another try, this time Ben Kidd finished off in the corner following some exceptional play from scrum half Arthur Dunne and winger David O’Dwyer down the left flank to put Enniscorthy ahead by nine, but the young outhalf was unable to convert the tough kick from the touchline. Dungannon responded well, with Alex Kennedy getting over for the visitors before the end of the half, Enniscorthy led by four going into the break. The second half was a different story, with Dungannon pressing against the Enniscorthy defence for the opening minutes before getting over. Matthew Montgomery went over for the visitors, which was converted, followed by Aaron Nelson’s effort which was also converted, before a penalty try wrapped this fixture up with 15 minutes to go, which was also converted. The tale of the tape for this game, from an Enniscorthy perspective, will be the issues in the scrum, with the front row being put under pressure all game long, as a result of injuries. Within the first 20 minutes of the first half, Angelo Todisco was taken off after trying to play on with an ankle injury and was replaced by Irish under-19 prospect Grant Palmer, who was also forced out of the game as the second half began with a suspected shoulder injury, being replaced by Andrew Redmond. As a result, Enniscorthy struggled in scrums and consequently
Page 114 - 4th November 2022
Speaking with head coach Declan O’Brien after the game, this was the area that he saw as the turning point in the game.
With moving Nick Doyle to the back row, Enniscorthy were competitive in lineouts, with the versatile player as the first jumper using his six-foot seven frame and explosive leaping ability to try to intercept any ball thrown in by the Dungannon hooker, which the head coach noted as a bright spot in the game. “I will say that from a set piece point of view, I felt that we won the lineout battle, we were really good in that space, but ultimately, we gave away too many penalties and had three players put in the sin bin, so you can’t expect to win games when these things happen, but look we will keep pushing on and we will go again next week.” The outlook for the month ahead sees Enniscorthy first travel to the West of Ireland, as they face the Galway Corinthians in Corinthians Park on Saturday, November the 5th, followed by a return to Alcast Park in Enniscorthy to host Belfast Harlequins before commuting to Connacht again, this time making the trek to Hamilton Park in Sligo to face Sligo RFC. Enniscorthy XV vs Dungannon RFC: 1: Angelo Todisco. 2: Jamie Barron. 3: MJ Doyle. 4: Tom Ryan. 5: Liam Stamp. 6: Nick Doyle. 7: Niall Parker. 8: Timmy Morrissey. 9: Arthur Dunne. 10: Ben Kidd. 11: David O’Dwyer. 12: Daniel Pim. 13: Hughie O’Neill. 14: Sebastian Pim. 15: Michael Farrell. Subs: 16: Andrew Redmond (on for G. Palmer, MJ Doyle {blood sub}). 17: Grant Palmer (on for A. Todisco). 18: David Farrell (on for L. Stamp). 19: Fiachra Hourihane (on for B. Kidd). 20: Jim White (on for S. Pim). n
Slaney SpORt
Club of the Year!
Congrats to Enniscorthy Rugby Club on being awarded "Club of the Year" by the Guinness Rugby Writers of Ireland, a first for a provincial club in the history of these awards. The award recognises the club's achievement in winning Division 2B of the Energia Men's All Ireland League last season in their first season following promotion. The credit for this award is down to the players, coaches, volunteers, officers, committees and all members not just of last year but for many years to build the club up to its present status. A huge number of volunteers over the decades kept the club going through thick and thin and this award is testament to all their input.
Enniscorthy Rugby Club awarded ‘Club of the Year’, represented by last year's captain Tom Stamp, this year's captain Timmy Morrissey, and club PRO Liam Spratt.
At the awards the club was represented by last year's captain Tom Stamp, this year's captain Timmy Morrissey, and club PRO Liam Spratt. n
€122k for Sports Active Wexford being prioritised within the funding. €60,000 will go towards a Round One Allocation for community sports and physical activities hubs. €23,000 will be dedicated to Sports Inclusion Disability Projects. €20,000 will assist with volunteer supports for County Wexford’s sports volunteers. €10,000 will assist with a Get Girls Active campaign while €9,000 will support the rollout of youth leadership training in County Wexford.
Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne (pictured above) has confirmed that Sports Active Wexford will receive €122,000 in funding as part of Sport Ireland’s Dormant Accounts Funding Scheme. Tranche One of the funding scheme aims to engage with County Wexford communities, focusing on people living in disadvantaged communities, people with a disability, women and girls, and people who are educationally disadvantaged. Inclusion is a core value within sport, with sports inclusion disability projects also
Welcoming the funding, Minister Browne outlined how the allocation of Dormant Accounts Funding will make a real difference in County Wexford communities: “Today’s funding announcement will result in targeted measures to encourage the participation of sport in all communities, especially within disadvantaged communities. It is great to see that the funding will be directed towards programmes that promote physical activity, making sport and physical activity accessible to people from diverse backgrounds, people with a disability and the development of programmes to address transitions and drop out from physical activity. “Today’s funding announcement will help to address inequalities in sports partici-
pation, in particular among those experiencing socio-economic disadvantage. There is a wide variety of measures being implemented and I am especially pleased about the initiative to get girls more active in sport, too many of whom are still dropping out of sport in their teenage years. I encourage all concerned to actively engage with Sports Active Wexford, who will use the funding to further the aims and objectives of these programmes”, Minister Browne concluded. n
4th November 2022 - Page 115
Slaney HIStORy Slaney aD & HeRItage
Baginbun Norman Festival In 1170, Raymond le Gros, or Raymond the Fat (political correctness and sensitivity were in short supply back in the day) landed with his band of Normans on the coast of Wexford. They arrived in two ships – Le Bague and Le Bonne – sound familiar to you? Anyway, over 850 years later the good people of South Wexford – many of them with Norman names I’ll wager – like Roche, Devereux, Codd, Rossiter, Browne, Redmond, Colfer, and more, in an effort to embrace their Norman heritage, have established the Baginbun Norman Festival at Fethard on Sea. Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society were only too happy to represent the Normans at the Festival held over the
Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society members at the Baginbun Norman Festival. Below L-R: Myles Courtney, Maria Nolan and Cllr Michael Whelan.
Bank Holiday weekend on the actual headland where the landing took place all those years ago and dish out a couple of floggings to those who deserved them and tell a few grizzly tales about a Norman called Alice who dished out her own retribution when her lover was killed in the Battle of Baginbun by the Viking Irish. Not the kinda gal you’d want to bring home to your mother or waken up beside the next morning.
It’s payback time. Time to put our Norman heritage to good tourism and economic use and well done to the Baginbun Festival Committee under the stewardship of Michael Whelan for doing just that.
Enniscorthy man, now living in New Ross, Myles Courtney, gave an informative overview of the event that shaped Irish history.
Waterford have taken ownership of the Vikings, let the Normans belong to Wexford, after all this is where they arrived and by and large remained with the names still with us today.
Whether we like it or not, this was the exact time that Ireland was conquered and gave the foreigner a foothold on our shore.
And in their defence it is said they became ‘more Irish than the Irish themselves’.
‘At Baginbun Ireland was lost and won.’
Developments at Vinegar Hill At the October meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District it was reported by Council officials that The Heritage Officer of Wexford County Council is working on appropriate designs for the interpretive panels to be located on Vinegar Hill. It is expected that there will be a presentation to the November meeting of the Municipal District in relation to this matter. At the October meeting it was also revealed that there had been some interference with the door lock on the public toilet located on Vinegar Hill but that this matter is being dealt with. Finally, it was confirmed that the hedges on the pathways on the Hill were to be trimmed. n
Page 116 - 4th November 2022
This was when and where it all happened, and it is about time Wexford took ownership of it warts and all.
Pic: Sean Fogarty
– Words and pics by Maria Nolan
Slaney HIStORy & HeRItage
Liam Mellows Centenary Lecture
Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society members with Dr Ruan O’Donnell, Prionsias O’Rathaille, Johnny Mythen TD, Barry Lacey and Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin.
Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society once again added pageant and realism to the Liam Mellows Centenary Lecture delivered by renowned historian Dr. Ruan O`Donnell at Gorey Library recently as part of the Gorey Decade of Commemorations. Councillor Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin welcomed the large gathering, including Johnny Mythen TD and Prionsias O`Rathaille, the grandson of the O`Rahilly, to the special event commemorating the life of Mellows and the very significant role he played in Ireland`s struggle for freedom, before calling on Dr. O`Donnell, who had flown in from New York for the occasion.
Prionsias O’Rathaille and Johnny Mythen TD.
Dr. O`Donnell, lecturer in the University of Limerick, an expert on Republicanism, gave a very detailed and informative account of the life and principles of Liam Mellows, his involvement in the Easter Rising, his extensive work in America with Fenian John Devoy and Harry Boland, his anti-Treaty stance, his arrest at the surrender of the Four Courts and his eventual execution on the 8th December 1922 by the newly appointed Provisional Government and his final wish to be buried with his grandparents at Castletown cemetery where commemorations will take place on the 100th anniversary of his death on Sunday 11th Dec, 2022.
– Words & pics by Maria Nolan
Maria Nolan, Dr Ruan O’Donnell, Owen Dunbar.
4th November 2022 - Page 117
Slaney HIStORy Slaney aD & HeRItage
Day of commemorations in Enniscorthy, October 9th 2022 10am Mass in St Aidan's Cathedral, Enniscorthy, 11am Wreath Laying Ceremony outside 21 Main Street, Enniscorthy, in memory of Commandant Peter Doyle and Captain Thomas Doyle. Later on the same day, Wreath Laying Ceremony at the graves in Marshalstown and Ballindaggin. On the evening of October the 10th, 1922, four Vincentian Fathers from Phibsborough, Dublin, were holding a mission mass in Enniscorthy cathedral. The event attracted a huge crowd of worshippers, including two Free State soldiers, captains Peter Doyle and Thomas Doyle (no relation). As mass ended, the two men, who were in uniform but unarmed, left the cathedral and walked down Main Street. As they did so a pair of assassins stepped out of the shadows and approached them. Without warning they opened fire on the soldiers, who fell to the ground, mortally wounded. On hearing the gunfire, consternation broke out amongst the crowd leaving mass and people began to flee in all directions. Meanwhile, a Crossley Tender lorry, full of Free State troops, raced into Market Square. In the confusion, the newly arrived soldiers believed that they
too were under attack and they opened fire into the crowd milling around them. Unsurprisingly, this had terrible consequences and at least four women were seriously injured in the spray of bullets. These included Ms Leacy, Ms Kavanagh, Ms Reilly and Ms Keane. Of these, Ms Leacy was the most severely wounded and her leg was subsequently amputated (she owned a stationery shop on Castle street). When the shooting finally subsided, the two wounded soldiers were still lying on the ground where they had fallen (just outside No. 21 Main Street). Peter Doyle, who was 29 and from Ballinakill, Marshalstown, died that night, while his comrade, Thomas Doyle, who was 27 and from Curragraigue, Ballindaggin, succumbed to his wounds eight days later. The perpetrators of the assassination were never identified. n
Wreaths held by Dan Doyle, nephew of Peter Doyle and Jim McGrath, nephew of Thomas Doyle.
Page 118 - 4th November 2022
Slaney HIStORy & HeRItage
Marchers and attendees at the wreath-laying ceremony on Main Street, Enniscorthy, Sunday 9th October 2022, for Commandant Peter Doyle and Captain Thomas Doyle at the spot where they were shot on Main Street, 10th October, 1922.
4th November 2022 - Page 119
Slaney Slaney SnapS aD
Fr. Jim Fitzpatrick Memorial Tractor Run
Fr. Jim Fitzpatrick Memorial Tractor Run leaving Ferns GAA Club on 30th October 2022 in aid of the Jack and Jill Children’s Fund. Top left: Tom Murphy and his homemade Leyland which he built from scratch. Top right: Mother and daughter doing the paperwork, Leah and Catherine Denby. Above left: Pat Kinsella and Davy Leacy enjoying a cup of soup. Above: A hot cup of soup is your only man before going on the Tractor Run, Eddie Sinnott and Jack O’Connor tuck in. Below left: Two Askamore fellows drumming up business for their forthcoming event, Wesley Earle and Ronan Finn.
Paul Doyle and Pauline Maguire.
Page 120 - 4th November 2022
Slaney SnapS
Fr. Jim Fitzpatrick Memorial Tractor Run leaving Ferns GAA Club on 30th October 2022 in aid of the Jack and Jill Children’s Fund. Above left: Dan Nolan and Tom Nolan. Above right: Jack Roche makes sure his John Deere is all set for the Tractor Run. Left: James and Kate Whelan. Right: Glad he had a cab, Brian Lacey happy to wait the rain out. Below left: Jack and Ben Bolger. Below right: Conor Lacey and Maisie Fanan all set for the off.
4th November 2022 - Page 121
Slaney Slaney envIROnment aD
New watermains in Gorey Irish Water, working in partnership with Wexford County Council, is replacing 580m of problematic watermains in Ramstown Lower, Gorey, which will improve water quality for the community. The project commenced last month and forms part of Irish Water’s National Leakage Reduction Programme. The works also involve laying new water service connections from the public water main in the road to customers’ property boundaries and connecting it to the customers’ water supply. The works, being carried out by Shareridge Civil Engineering on behalf of Irish Water, is taking place on the Forth Road and are expected to be completed by the end of November. Outlining the benefits the mains replacement will bring, Joe Carroll from Irish Water explained: “Replacing these old and problematic pipes in Ramstown Lower, that have a history of bursting, will reduce the drinking water lost by leakage and will bring an all-round improvement to water quality for the local community. Joe added: “To facilitate the safe delivery of the upgrades, there may be some traffic management in place, however, local and emergency access will be maintained at all times. “Works will be limited to short sections
Save energy costs The Environment Department of Wexford County Council has put together some tips for you to help save costs on your energy bills. For more information please go to: https://bit.ly/3rXyxSR
Page 122 - 4th November 2022
to minimise any impact on customers. During this project there may be some short-term water outages and the project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48 hours notice before any planned water outages.
tomers can also make contact on Twitter @IWCare with any queries. For updates please visit the Water Supply Updates section of the Irish Water website or set your location on the website www.water.ie
“We understand that road works and water outages can be inconvenient, but our crews will make every effort to minimise disruption to local communities as we continue to improve the water supply in Wexford and progress the National Leakage Reduction Programme.”
This project is one example of Irish Water working in partnership with Local Authorities to reduce leakage and provide a more reliable water supply. Fixing leaks can be complicated but progress is being made. In 2018 the rate of leakage nationally was 46%, by the end of 2021 it was 38%. Irish Water says it is on track to achieve a national leakage rate of 25% by the end of 2030. n
Irish Water’s customer care helpline is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and cus-
Slaney envIROnment
Climate action Enniscorthy’s tidy towns podcast 180 Degrees – an SEAI Podcast About Climate Action features guests from various strands of society, who each have a story to tell about their own personal relationship to climate action. Guests include: Liz Bonnin, Science, Wildlife and Natural History Broadcaster. Davie Philip, Community Catalyst. Eamon Ryan, Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications, and Transport. Rachel Dempsey, Founder of Full Circle Change. Professor John Sweeney, Emeritus Professor of Geography at the NUI Maynooth. Lorna Gold, Author and Movement Builder. Sharon Finnegan, Director of the EPA with responsibility for the Office of Environmental Sustainability. All episodes are now available to download from the SEAI podcast page – if you like the podcast, please rate and review and share with friends and family. https://www.seai.ie/podcast/ n
success
Congratulations to Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, national winner of the SuperValu Ireland Tidy Towns Good Windows Award sponsored by the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland. A lot of credit goes to Dervla Tierney of Reimagining Enniscorthy for pulling everything together in relation to the submission for the windows at No.9 and No.31 Slaney Street. Well done to the Tidy Towns group also for retaining its bronze medal in category F of the national competition despite a number of setbacks during the year. The group would like to acknowledge the support of like-minded organisations such as Sustainable Enniscorthy, Community Allotments, Reimagining Enniscorthy and all the resident associations, with a spokesperon telling us that, “For a town the size of Enniscorthy collaboration between groups is key to success and the support of an active local authority.” We’ll carry a full report in next month’s issue of the ‘Slaney News’. n
No excuses! With the generous support of the Environment Department of Wexford County Council, two Mutt Mitts bag dispensers and bins (see photo) have been installed in Ferns village and also at several locations around Enniscorthy. These dispensers contain easy to use biodegradable bags to dispose of your dog’s poo. So no excuses! Bag it and bin it!! n
4th November 2022 - Page 123
Slaney Slaney envIROnment aD
Caring for the Earth in Wexford
In church car parks in Wexford town, in the near future, you will walk into pocket forests of trees and you will hear lots of honey bees buzzing as they work to keep food on your table. You will also be able to park your e-bike or your e-car conveniently and powering up electrically while you go to the Library, the Opera in High Street, go downtown to shop, saunter along the Quay, walk the Wexford Cultural Spine or drop into the churches at Rowe Street and Bride Street to pray. All was explained at a public meeting themed “Our Greatest Challenge” held at Whites Hotel, Wexford, on 6th October. Dr Noel Culleton, a scientist and
author of several books on climate and on classical music, is chairman of a new group called Care for the Earth. They were the organisers of the public meeting.
want us to know how we can do it. They talk too about biodiversity, a long word which simply means the importance of hedgerows, gardens, lawns and insects and bees.
The group comprises also church leaders Bishop Nash, Fr Billy Swan, Fr Terence Bateman of the Catholic church, Victoria Hawkins of the Church of Ireland, and several Wexford highprofile civilians Helen Corish Wylde, Don Curtin, Gerry Forde, Mary Ellen Hawkey, James Kells, Brother Eamon McLochlinn and Ibar Quirke.
Gerry Fleming, Meteorological Consultant, famed for his wink on the weather on RTÉ television, and Rev. Trevor Sargent, a horticulturist and one-time leader of the Green Party, were among those who voiced their opinions at the meeting.
They are worried about the impact of climate change, which they say is our greatest challenge, and they have joined in a massive campaign to stamp out the dreaded carbon footprint. They
Dr Noel Culleton, one of Ireland’s original climate worriers when he was with the Department and in Brussels, and as head of Johnstown Castle, described the public meeting at Whites Hotel as crucial to our health, our well-being, and our future. n
Wexford Care for the Earth public meeting in Whites Hotel on 6th October 2022 in conjunction with Wexford Parish Mission Week.
Willie French and Rev. Trevor Sargent.
Page 124 - 4th November 2022
L-R: Gerry Fleming, Mary Ellen Hawkey, Dr. Noel Culleton (Chairman, Care for the Earth), Mayor of Wexford Cllr Maura Bell, Bishop Of Ferns Ger Nash, Rev. Trevor Sargent.
Slaney envIROnment
Wexford Care for the Earth public meeting in Whites Hotel on 6th October. Above left: Victoria Hawkins, Ibar Quirke and Dr Noel Culleton. Above right: Stefanie and Oliver Roche and Nancy Codd.
Music was provided by the Wexford Female Vocal Ensemble.
Tara McGarry and P.J. McNamee.
L-R: Victoria Hawkins, Don Curtin and Lorraine Hawkins.
4th November 2022 - Page 125
Slaney Slaney envIROnment aD
Wexford County Develoment Plan Following receipt of confirmation from the Office of the Planning Regulator of its satisfaction with the Council’s responses to the remaining outstanding issues, the new County Development Plan 2022-2028 came into effect on 25th July 2022. New planning applications received from that date onwards will be assessed against the policies, objectives, and development management standards in the new Plan. It is proposed to hold information sessions on the Plan in the coming months. The Plan is currently available to view online on the Council’s website and in hard copy format at the Planning Department, Carricklawn. The graphic design and production of the Plan is underway and once this process is completed hard copies will be available for circulation and purchase. n
Green loans from Enniscorthy Credit Union Need to retrofit your cold, 1970s house? Enniscorthy Credit Union’s Green Loan is designed to help you do just that – with one of its lowest rates for a loan 5.25% (5.4% APR) you can save money, save energy and save the environment with Enniscorthy Credit Union! All you need to borrow a radon monitor is a library card! Please contact your local branch for details.
Talk to them today at 053 9233835 or email: loans@enniscorthycu.ie n
These six ‘R’s can save our planet! Refuse single use plastics (bags, cups, etc) Rethink your choices Reuse as much as possible Repair before you replace Recycle all packaging and plastic bottles Rot all your organic stuff and put it back into the soil n
Litter bins on the way At the October meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District, it was confirmed that the following litter bins are on the way: • Bunclody: 3 replacements bins are ready for installation within a matter of days. The Big Belly bin is to be delivered shortly and installed in a suitable location. • Wafer Street, Enniscorthy: A litter bin to be installed within a few days. n
Page126 - 4th November 2022
