Slaney News, Issue 162, November 2023

Slaney News

SERviNg CO. wExFORD FOR tHE LASt 13 yEARS

Issue 162 – November 2023

50th Anniversary Dinner Dance of

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Contents of this issue of Slaney News...

News page 4 Leisure & Lifestyle page 64 Arts page 104 Food & Drink page 110 Business & Finance page 116 Pets page 122 Motoring page 124 Sport page 128 History & Heritage page 132 Environment page 135 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.

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comment

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

Welcome to the November issue of the Slaney News.

With Christmas just around the corner, here’s some updates on what’s happening in Enniscorthy for the holiday season...

At the time of going to press, Enniscorthy’s Christmas Lights are almost fully erected. The switching-on will take place on Friday 24th November. Keep an eye on our ‘Slaney News’ Facebook page over the coming days for more details.

Ticket sales for Santa’s Enchanted Christmas experience at the 1798 Centre are impressive. Over 2,000 tickets have already been sold. The event will run from Saturday 25th November to Saturday 23rd December.

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

Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) Council will be hosting a Christmas Market in the Market Square during December. 38 vendors have applied to be part of the market. Again, keep an eye on the ‘Slaney News’ Facebook page for more information as it becomes available.

Disclaimer:

It is planned to have a number of choirs Carol Singing in the town during December.

A Christmas Shop Window Competition is being organised by EMD with excellent prizes for the winners so all retailers and service providers are encouraged to take part to help the festive atmosphere in the town. For more details and to enter, contact Enniscorthy Chamber on 053 9232006.

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We include as always a huge number of photos taken around Enniscorthy, and beyond. If you would like to purchase any of our photos please get in touch by email at slaneynews@gmail.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our new format. Telephone: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has over 11,000 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

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

James

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Please note the following: To log a report regarding any dumping, street litter, road oil spills and potholes, ring Wexford Council on

(053) 919 6000 or email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie You will receive a log number to refer to if you need to call again.

You can also ask to register for group or individual cleanups of your environment.

Enniscorthy’s Repair Cafe It's time to fix, mend, and breathe new life into your beloved items. So a Repair Cafe will be hosted by Sustainable Enniscorthy on Saturday, December 2, 2023 from 2.30pm until 5.30pm. This event is a haven for all things repairable. Bring along your broken or worn-out items, be it clothing, electronics, furniture, or appliances, and skilled volunteers will work their magic to restore them.

By repairing instead of replacing, attendees at the Sustainable Enniscorthy event save money and contribute to a greener planet. It's also a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills, meet like-minded individuals, and share your knowledge with others.

So, mark your calendars and don't miss out on this exciting event at Templeshannon Community Centre (Y21 T8K8) and give your cherished possessions a second chance! All are welcome. n

Page 6 - 4th November 2023

4TH

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Phone: 087 2338913 / 087 6343976 Page 8 - 4th November 2023

Telephone Frank at 087-2403310 for more details.

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NATIONAL OPERA HOUSE, WEXFORD Saturday 11th November 2023 at 8pm Tickets in person at Box Office or Tel: 053-9122144 or online at www.nationaloperahouse.ie 4th November 2023 - Page 9

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Christmas is in the air!

Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy is very frustrated that the Heritage Interpretive Panels to be installed at Vinegar Hill have not been erected yet.

Cllr Murphy had originally hoped they would be in situ for the Longest Day commemoration on 21st June but now, over four months later, there’s still no sign! She was informed at the October meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District that there was a delay with the illustrators working on the panels, but a clearly exasperated Cllr Murphy wants Wexford County Councils’s Heritage Officer to appear at the November meeting to answers questions in relation to the unacceptable delay. n

Workers going to great heights to have Enniscorthy ready for the switching-on of the festive lights on Friday 24th November.

€150k for Enniscorthy project €224,500 in government funding has been granted to two innovative Co. Wexford projects under the Community Safety Innovation Fund according to local Fine Gael Deputy Paul Kehoe.

The Enniscorthy Community Alliance which is a coming together of several existing local groups involved in the community sector will receive €150,000 with Cumas New Ross receiving €74,500.

Welcoming the funding, Deputy Kehoe said that the Community Safety Innovation Fund is an innovative fund announced by the Minister for Justice in March this year which allows proceeds of crime to be directed into community projects to support community safety.

“These funds will ensure that the most appropriate proposals to improve community safety will access the funding they need, encourage the development of innovative ways in which to improve community safety from those people who best understand local community safety needs, allows best practice on community safety and youth justice to be shared with other partnerships and communities nationally as new proposals are developed, and reflects and highlights the success of An Garda Síochána and the Criminal Assets Bureau in seizing the proceeds of criminal activity.

“In Enniscorthy, the project aims to provide opportunities for youth within the town to get involved in community gardening, public realm improvements, sustainability initiatives and placemaking to support their learning and development, mental health and develop positive community engagement opportunities.”

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The Cumas project proposes to address the need for community safety education for people with disabilities who are one of the most vulnerable groups in society.

Commenting on the funding, Minister James Browne TD praised both projects for “putting forward innovative proposals that will make a lasting difference in the community.”

“The Enniscorthy Community Alliance will carry out their project over two years to allow for consistency of approach and full realisation of several exciting initiatives including edible planting, community garden spaces, sustainability training, tree planting, the creation of biodiversity walkways and the development of youth-friendly outdoor spaces.

“As a government Minister of State, it is my priority that this government delivers for County Wexford. Cumas is an excellent example of an organisation benefitting from the support of this government.” Early last month, Minister Browne confirmed that HSE funding for Cumas to the value of €390,000 had been secured. The additional €74,500 will, according to Minister Browne, “be dedicated to the delivery of a project to develop community safety education resources for people with disabilities.“ “By supporting these two County Wexford projects, my department and I are putting money back into the community,“ concluded Minister Browne.

We plan to carry more details about the Enniscorthy Community Alliance, and their plans, in next month’s Slaney News. n

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The North Pole's most beloved resident, Santa Claus, is delighted to announce his presence at Santa's Enchanted Christmas Experience in the National 1798 Rebellion Centre in the heart of Enniscorthy.

Supported by Wexford County Council and the Riverside Park Hotel, Santa's Enchanted Christmas Experience invites children and their families to fully immerse themselves in the spirit of Christmas with a purpose-built Christmas wonderland.

The enchanted event will feature immersive seasonal scenes, special effects like enchanting soundscapes and falling snow, as well as captivating creative graphics.

The exterior setting is a breathtaking winter theme, beautifully illuminated to set the mood for your festive adventure.

Children should be prepared to be surprised at every turn with multi-room, enchanting spaces, where pop-up theatrical characters come to life, creating magical moments for the entire family. Mrs. Claus and her playful elves and gnomes are ready to entertain and guide the little ones on their journey to meet Santa.

And that's not all – every ticket holder for

Santa's Enchanted Christmas also receives complimentary entry to the Elves Workshop at Enniscorthy Castle! Explore this magical walk-through experience within the Castle at your own pace, with no pre-booking required. The Castle will be open from 12pm to 7pm, Wednesday to Sunday.

himself. Enjoy plenty of photo opportunities in a relaxed setting. Each visitor in the group, including infants (0-2), children (3-15), and adults (16+), requires a ticket, and all infants and children receive a special gift from Santa.

Mico Hassett, Manager of Enniscorthy Castle and 1798 Centre, and her team are thrilled to welcome the local community and visitors alike with an unparalleled level of entertainment. Special overnight packages are also available from the Riverside Park Hotel.

Is it your baby's first Christmas? Enjoy an intimate photo opportunity with Santa! Infant Tours offer a shorter experience, featuring a meeting with Mrs. Claus and her Elf before entering Santa's magical grotto for a one-on-one encounter with Santa Claus.

Each visitor in the group, including infants (0-2) and adults (16+), requires a ticket, and all infants receive a special gift from Santa.

Santa's Enchanted Christmas Experience is organised by the same creative team that previously brought Christmas magic to Enniscorthy Castle, so visitors can expect nothing less than pure wonder!

Sensory Tours: For families with sensitive kids or special needs, there will be Sensory Tours designed with everyone in mind. Capture that precious family photo with Santa without the noise and crowds. These tours provide a shorter, more focused experience, including a meeting with Mrs. Claus and her Elf before entering Santa's magical grotto for personal time with the jolly man

Infant Tours:

Don't miss your chance to make this holiday season truly unforgettable. Santa's Enchanted Christmas Experience in Enniscorthy is a must-visit destination for families seeking a dose of festive magic. Be sure to book your tickets early, as availability is limited. The experience will be available from 25th November until 23rd December and prices are from €15 per person upwards. Free parking and full-service café are available on site.

For more information and ticket bookings, please visit www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie n

4th November 2023 - Page 11

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BENEATH MY ANGELS WINGS...

Beneath My Angels Wings is an organisation supporting families who have lost their beloved children.

Cllr John O’Rourke is reminding all that a Memorial Service will be held in St Mary's Church, Church Street, Enniscorthy, on 12th November at 7pm. All welcome.

Page 12 - 4th November 2023

CYCLE CITY LABEL As a follow-up to a story we ran some months ago, it has now been confirmed

by Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager Claire Lawless that Tour de France Cycle City signage has been ordered and delivery is now awaited. The Council will meet with all stakeholders to discuss the growth of Enniscorthy as a cycling town.

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Recruiting for Community Employment (CE) Scheme Supervisor Enniscorthy Community Services Council CLG is currently recruiting for a Community Employment (CE) scheme Supervisor for our delivery of the Care for the Elderly CE scheme which is based in Enniscorthy town and environs.

The Supervisor will be responsible for the coordination, administration and delivery of the CE scheme. This is a full time position and the successful candidate will initially be employed on a 12 month contract, renewal annually subject to DSP funding.

Minimum Requirements:  Minimum of a Major 3rd level qualification (NFQ) level 6 or higher.  Administration to include Payroll, Training, Human Resource, Project Management.  Full clean Driving Licence (essential).

 Ensure the CE scheme is compliant with financial, programme and training monitoring requirements as detailed in the CE Operating Procedures.  To provide a training plan on an ongoing basis to DSP detailing the proposed training and development for participants on the CE scheme.  Ensure access to recognised qualifications for participants, with a focus on the achievement of relevant qualifications including Major Awards on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).

Remuneration: Salary will be in line with Community Employment Scheme Supervisor pay-scales from the Department of Social Protection (DSP).

Key Duties:

Please forward a copy of current Curriculum Vitae and letter of application no later than 5:00pm on Friday 17th November 2023 to: Mr Patrick O’Shea, Chairman, Enniscorthy Community Services Council CLG, 6 Main Street, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford.

 To manage all aspects of administration involving the Community Employment scheme.

NB: Candidates will be shortlisted on the basis of the Curriculum Vitae.

 To have excellent communications and ICT skills.  Minimum of 3 years Supervisory or Management experience.

Page 14 - 4th November 2023

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Keeping our Councillors in the loop!

In July 2021, €200,000 was allocated for the construction of a 600m looped path around the footbridge over the Urrin at the end of the prom walk to allow e.g. wheelchair users, buggies etc to access the 3km ‘Country Walk’ beyond the footbridge. The proposed looped path (which probably will be gravelled as tarmacing is likely to prove too expensive) would run from the near side of the footbridge up the side of the Urrin river, cross over at St. John’s Bridge to Davis Mills and back down by the far bank to join the Country Walk on the far side of the footbridge via the disused Irish Rail underpass.

At the Enniscorthy Municipal District meeting in October it emerged, in a response to a query from Cllr Aidan Browne, that the proposed path has still not gone to the Planning Permission stage, and when it does it will be going straight to An Bord Pleanála because the area involved is a Special Area of Con-

Page 16 - 4th November 2023

Cllr Cathal Byrne proposed that EMD officially contact Wexford County Council’s CEO, Tom Enright, seeking priority now for this project saying that Enniscorthy’s projects typically do not proceed with any urgency.

A clearly frustrated Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy wondered was it even worth applying for funding for new projects when existing fully-funded projects weren’t making much progress.

Cllr Jackser Owens and his fellow Councillors are frustrated by the lack of progress on the proposed looped path for Enniscorthy.

servation and can’t go through any other planning route. So getting planning will be a very slow process.

Cllr Jackser Owens, speaking on behalf of wheelchair and buggy users, said that they are currently denied access to the Country Walk and “have never even seen it”!

Mr. Rory O’Mahony, from the Environment Section of Wexford County Council, said that there has been good progress in negotiations with the relevant landowners but that the project was well behind schedule as the Council doesn’t have sufficient qualified staff ‘in house’ to prepare the plans and has to rely on outside consultants.

Chairman Cllr John O’Rourke suggested that the Council request Mr Enright to attend the next meeting to be questioned on this project and others.

The existing Country Walk is due to be resurfaced over the coming weeks. n

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BACK AFTER A 4-YEAR ABSENCE

TICKETS AT TICKETMASTER.IE AND AT HOTEL

RIVERSIDE PARK HOTEL, ENNISCORTHY Thursday, 9th November, 8pm 4th November 2023 - Page 17

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Wexford Local Development invites you to attend...

Funding for local walking tracks Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has confirmed that funding has been secured for two additional Healthy Ireland GAA Walking Tracks in County Wexford.

Minister Browne commented, “Rapparees/Starlights GAA club and Rathgarogue/Cushinstown GAA club will both benefit from grants to the value of €15,000 respectively.” The recent announcement offers further funding to these two hard-working GAA clubs.

In April 2023, Glynn/Barntown GAA club and Monageer/Boolavogue GAA club benefitted from the first round of funding under this initiative for this year.

Minister Browne said, “Walking tracks serve as a fantastic inclusive community facility in promoting physical activity and the overall health and wellbeing of the community. That’s why my government colleagues and I are committed to supporting these grassroots projects. The funding provided through this grant scheme will be key in ensuring that community initiatives like the Ireland Lights Up campaign, which is due to return in the New Year, can grow from strength to strength for non-playing members of GAA clubs.” n

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Full steam ahead for Wheelock’s Magical Christmas Experience Welcome to the 2023 Magical Christmas Experience at The Village at Wheelocks. This year is the 5th year of festive fun, featuring a jolly journey on the Woodland train through the enchanting tunnel of lights, followed by a trip through The North Pole’s Christmas Adventure Land where you will meet Mrs Claus and a host of busy elves.

Make your very own Christmas tree ornament at the festive station alongside some of the mischievous elves. Continue your magnificent tour with a much-anticipated visit with Santa Claus where a special gift awaits all children.

This year Wheelocks will have their very first Wheelock’s Wishing Tree where kids and adults alike can write out their wish and hang it on the tree in the hope of it coming true. Alongside it, some of Santa’s Elves will be offering complimentary face painting and tattoos and you can make a donation to the fantastic Make a Wish Foundation in the buckets provided.

A new addition this year is “The Candy Jar” – a Sweet Shop where there will be some old favourites for the parents, like sour apples and retro double-dips and a great selection for the kids. And Complimentary Tea/Coffee or Hot Chocolate is gifted to all at The Merry Land Station.

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the helpful Elves. There is no need to print off your booking confirmation, simply quote your order number and you will be checked in and sent on your way to enjoy the Magical Christmas Experience which lasts approximately 35 minutes.

While you are there, you can also avail of the Eat-In or Takeaway menu, browse through the Christmas Shop and Craft Stalls where you are sure to find that special gift to tick off your

Christmas Shopping list. Make sure to visit the retail shops on site located in the Courtyard area, N-Hance Beauty and Tracey’s Cottage Garden.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– And remember, The Village at Wheelocks is a year-round destination. The 17-acre site is in a beautiful rural setting just outside Enniscorthy and easily accessed from the M11 motorway between Dublin and Wexford. Visitors can enjoy special walks, tours and activities throughout the year, and take a forest walk and visit the farm animals along the way.

Wheelocks have been growing fruit at the family farm since the 1950s. Visitors can learn more how they grow their famous Wexford strawberries and even pick their own! Strawberries and raspberries can be purchased during the harvest season.

The farm shop is a must visit, with a selection of ice-creams, smoothies, lemonades, thick shakes and much more. There’s also a range of beautiful products in the Christmas shop on site.

The café serves delicious, freshly prepared food all day and Wheelocks are proud members of the Wexford Food Family and Bord Bia, promoting the finest local Wexford produce.

Wheelocks would like to thank all their customers for their loyal support during 2023 and wish all a very Happy Christmas and New Year.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The Christmas Experience at Wheelocks runs on just 8 days in December and will sell out fast, so visit the website now and book online before it’s too late! https://thevillageatwheelocks.ie/event/the-village-at-wheelocks-christmas-experience/

4th November 2023 - Page 19

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Off the beaten track...

Looking good... the pathways on Vinegar Hill.

At the regular monthly meetings of Enniscorthy Municipal District, Councillors such as Cathal Byrne have been critical of the overgrowth on the trails around Vinegar Hill. Cllr Jackser Owens has said that a worker is needed on the Hill ‘5 days a week’ to maintain it. He has also been critical of the level of dog fouling there. Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy has been critical of the delay in erecting the longawaited interpretive panels promised by Wexford County Council but not delivered as yet.

Cllr Cathal Byrne who runs a monthly clinic in nearby Templeshannon Community Centre.

All that constructive criticism is paying off as shown by recent work done on the Hill – the overgrowth has been cut back, pathways re-instated and re-surfaced with gravel. The trails will now be developed as formal walking trails with appropriate signage. Seating for the trails has also been ordered. n

Page 20 - 4th November 2023

SLANEy NEwS

Historic first as Enniscorthy wins silver in National Tidy Towns awards Enniscorthy is celebrating a significant milestone for the town which was achieved in October 2023. For first time ever Enniscorthy Tidy Towns attained a Silver Medal in the National Tidy Towns awards held at Croke Park.

This achievement would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers, community groups, Wexford County Council, members of the public and local businesses.

Speaking on this significant milestone, a spokesperson for the group said: “We are absolutely thrilled with our result in the national awards. We want to thank all our volunteers, Enniscorthy Municipal District, Community Employment Scheme workers and Wexford County Council for helping us make Enniscorthy a cleaner and greener town. Special thanks to Sustainable Enniscorthy, Enniscorthy Community Allotments, Reimagining Enniscorthy and all other community groups and members of the public for their assistance throughout the year. We would also like to thank Slaney News for the continued coverage and support”.

The focus for Enniscorthy Tidy Towns now shifts to building the momentum, maintaining Silver and improving the town’s score in next year’s awards.

Above and below: Enniscorthy volunteers out and about on litter picks.

The Tidy Towns adjudicator visited Enniscorthy in June and the report is included on pages 22-23. Enniscorthy’s overall marks increased significantly by 16 points to 356 points compared to 340 points 2022. This left Enniscorthy within 20 points of overall winners Abbeyleix, Co. Laois. Indeed, Enniscorthy faired better than the national winners in 2 of the 8 categories.

The group were particularly pleased with improvements in the ‘Sustainability’ and ‘Litter Control’ categories with the adjudicator praising the town’s sustainability initiatives and commenting on how they were pleased to find Enniscorthy very clean and tidy on the date of the visit.

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns is much more than litter picking, with projects in nature & biodiversity, sustainability, streetscapes, public places and buildings.

The group is seeking additional help and needs new volunteers! Please contact the group via Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or email if you are interested in getting involved to make Enniscorthy a cleaner and greener town to visit, work and live in. n River Slaney clean-up event organised recently by Sustainable Enniscorthy and kindly hosted by GoPaddle.ie

4th November 2023 - Page 21

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Silver medal for Enniscorthy!

In the national Tidy Towns Competition 2023, the results of which were announced last month, Enniscorthy recorded a huge improvement jumping from 340 points in 2022 to 356 in 2023.

The Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group are ‘absolutely thrilled’ with their score and their silver medal, and thank everybody who has helped achieve them.

We include below a slightly edited version of the Enniscorthy report.

❝

Community – Your Planning and Involvement: With a committee of 10 members and 35 volunteers, you have a strong group of people who support you and we note that the Ukrainian community participate in your weekly clean-ups. Other groups that work with you are Sustainable Enniscorthy and Enniscorthy Community Allotments and each group has specific skills and interest.

Your CE employees also help with residents’ associations and several other groups listed in your entry form. Six schools that participate in the Green School are listed and many of them work with your teams on spring clean events. The Enniscorthy Community College received a ‘Neat Streets’ award this year. We note that the specific project for you this year is the ‘National Spring Clean Events April 2023’ during which your volunteers collected over 70 bags of rubbish. We congratulate your participation in the competition for 30 years and wish you well for the future.

Streetscape & Public Places: The Enniscorthy Sports Hub which was opened in 2015 is a fine complex and we have noted the adjacent allotment complex. At the Duffry Gate we came across a memorial stone to part of the 1798 rebellion. Further up St Patrick’s Street we noted the infill development on the corner. The stone-built cathedral is an elegant structure, and we admired the view of Vinegar Hill in the distance. It was good to see the streets were busy and we noted that new stores have moved into the town centre. As we crossed the N11 bridge, the large mural of a bird clutching a harp caught our eye.

Several streets in the town centre area have terraced housing fronted by narrow footpaths. The only scope for enhancement by plant displays is by means of window box displays – perhaps this could be a pilot project for a street to stimulate interest for residents of other streets. ‘The Bailey’ is a lovely stone building with red brick used to define windows and door surrounds. A simi-

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lar style building looked well on the Promenade. The paving in Abbey Square is well done, it is even covering the utility service boxes.

Other items mentioned in your entry form include the Shop Front Paint + Flower Grant and Streetscape Enhancement Scheme - an ongoing initiative by the district council to improve the presentation of the town centre. The Historic Towns Initiative - a County council scheme whereby businesses provide 20% matching funding for improvement such as sash windows, doors, painting and overhanging wires. Upgrading street furniture, including litter bins. We visited Vinegar Hill for our first time and noted the self-composting public toilet near the car park. We enjoyed reading the history on the granite stones.

Green Spaces and Landscaping: The Fair Green is a triangular open space part of which functions as a car park. A sculpture of a cyclist commemorates the Tour de France of 1998. The official opening stone from 2009 is almost lost, it is so close to the ground. We suggest it be given a more prominent position and raised higher off the ground. Fastigiate oak trees forming an avenue in the central area look well, but we wonder if the tree guards are still needed. This little park is well-maintained and could be another location to

allow wildflowers to establish and grow. Between Cathedral Street and the R702, there is a triangular shaped sloping open space which has some fine specimens of a diverse range of tree species in the open space and between the parked cars. One tree we observed is dying (copper-leaved maple) and should be removed. The granite stone memorial to Fr Tony Scallan takes pride of place.

Surprisingly, Fr Scallan’s life years are not written on the stone – Google informed us that he died in 2003. Abbey Square had large, tiered plant containers placed on the hard surface median, but we were too early to see them at their best. We were also too early for the peak of the hanging baskets attached to poles. The main roundabout had not been planted. A line of lime trees helps to screen the car parks in this area. There are several specimens of mature trees in and around Enniscorthy and especially along the banks of the River Slaney. It is becoming standard practice for towns and cities to prepare a register of trees in streets, parks, open spaces, and even private properties.

With the aid of technology nowadays, such information is more easily done and updated. A tree survey of this kind has several uses, the first of which is for biodiversity, and to assess the value of the tree canopy. It might surprise you to learn that you have some important specimens; they could also be used as a resource for an urban tree trail.

SLANEy NEwS We were aware that the Tree Council of Ireland launched National Tree Week on March 5th, 1989, in association with the Wexford branch of the Lions Club. The planting took place in the grounds of the Christian Brothers School, Mill Park Road, so we went to the school and found that the trees have established well, but there was no sign of the timber plaque. Perhaps there is no one in the school or the community who remembers that occasion.

Other items mentioned in the entry form include the Community Orchard Projects - A mixture of fruit trees planted around the town in 35 locations. Also, under the Trees for Wexford campaign, 13 groups applied and were allocated beech hedging and native hedgerow whips. Seventy acres of green spaces are to be managed in accordance with the All-Island Pollinator Plan and sustainable perennial displays now account for 50% of all species grown. Enniscorthy has several areas where wildflowers can thrive.

Nature and Biodiversity in your Locality: Many thanks for the information on the Slaney River Valley, an SAC. Volunteers have joined ‘Fresh Water Watch’ project (lead by Sustainable Enniscorthy). You are planning a habitat survey and hope to have it with a Biodiversity Action Plan for 2024. We have noted the two focus areas for nature, biodiversity and habitat conservation for 2023 and you are targeting these for nesting boxes, pollinator planting and wider habitat management. You also have four specific focus projects for pollinating plants, kestrel and other species survey.

You mentioned environmentally friendly measures for weed control – please elaborate on them in next year’s entry form.

The rest of this section in your application form deals with Wexford Barn Owl Project, the Fresh Water Watch project on the river Slaney and the Wexford Bat Group. We enjoyed our walk on the Riverside Nature walk – it was delightful to see so many wildflowers and a nice view back to the town centre. Beside this entrance, the garage sign would benefit from being refreshed and some softening of the boundary with climbing plants.

Sustainability – Doing More with Less: The list of items mentioned under this criterion is very impressive. The following are extracts.

• Enniscorthy Community Allotments – Established in 2021, now has 65 plots at the allotment where they practice onsite composting and harvest rainwater and allow schools to participate. They also have 9 community groups involved with the project and cross-cultural

groups from other countries and they have won awards – well done.

• Collaboration with Sustainable Enniscorthy – They have a monthly column on the Slaney News online newspaper. They have secured grant funding for recycling materials.

• Energy saving Expo’s October 2022 & January 2023 – a promotional event • The Green Plan – It has seven themes or key focus areas, activated by a series of community led initiatives. Each initiative completed gets a score and 100 points equates to one tonne of emissions. Proposed projects are being included in the new Climate Action Plan. Your activities has to date generated over 200 points.

• Repair Café - free meeting places where people come together to repair things together. Tools and materials are available as well as expert volunteers with a range of skills. To start on the 11th of June 2023.

• Energy master plan – To be drafted by consultants – more info in 2024.

• Reimagining Enniscorthy – Public art, community decarbonisation and education project. A collaborative, place-based response to the climate crisis, and a creative exploration of Enniscorthy as Wexford’s pilot Decarbonisation Zone. You have listed 12 projects under this heading all of which relate to growing food.

• TASC – People’s Transition for Enniscorthy - a model for participative decision making that is intended to enable a community to benefit from the transition to a zero-carbon society.

• Enniscorthy’s Solutions Phase - Electric Taxi Co-op, Community owned solar energy.

recycling.

• Improved weekly social media litter awareness and volunteer activity posts issues are highlighted on social media and this has helped to increase volunteer numbers.

• Anti-littering road signs to tackle dashboard dining – These will be placed at various places to discourage littering.

• Increased stakeholder engagement on tidiness and litter control – This was a meeting with the county council to review the adjudicator’s report. New CCTV cameras are to be installed around the town.

• National Spring Clean events April – It was a huge success.

• Resident Associations – Residents get involved in the spring clean. The council provides funding for Amenity and Arts grants and for residents’ associations.

We wish to compliment you on this range of activities, and we are delighted to inform you that we found Enniscorthy very clean and tidy.

Residential Streets & Housing Areas: The Gort ná Siliní housing complex looked well – we admired the selection and quality of trees growing on the open spaces. At Slaney View Park, we admired the planting on the sloping side of the central open space and in other areas. There is scope for additional tree planting on this estate and to allow some parts of the open space to develop wildflowers. Other estates visited were Fr Murphy Close and Rectory Field.

Approach Roads, Streets & Lanes:

Well done on these initiatives. While you are not short of ideas, it is still possible to devise additional projects that will increase your marks. We suggest you consult the handbook on the following link for more ideas on projects under this criterion. https://www.tidytowns.ie/competition/ha ndbook/

On the approach from Ross Road, we admired a stone-built boundary wall and the mural on a gable wall. Further on the unplanted raised roundabout at the junction of Ross Road and Gort na Greine is a lost opportunity. As we drove to Vinegar Hill we admired the groups of oxeye daisies on roadside embankments near Captain Thomas Wafer Memorial Hall. Heritage style bilingual finger post signs throughout the town are very attractive.

Tidiness and Litter Control:

Concluding Remarks:

You have developed an anti-litter strategy to help raise awareness. This includes.

It is always difficult to maintain a town the size of Enniscorthy, but you are very organised, and that approach is paying dividends. We hope our comments and suggestions in this report will help you in preparing for your continued participation in the competition.

• Back to basics litter strategy - litter patrols are organised in advance, and you meet weekly to conduct targeted cleanups. Social media has helped to engage with the community. A weekly litter control tracker with details is retained. One in every four clean ups is focused on tidiness – kerbside weeds and signs. Collected material is segregated for

❞

For reports on all the other towns and villages in Co. Wexford, see: https://www.tidytowns.ie/reports/?report_year=2023&report_ county=wexford&seed=1697556092 n

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Enniscorthy’s new accessibility bikes Enniscorthy Municipal District has been successful in securing funding of €12,000 under the Community Recognition Fund Scheme to purchase accessibility bicycles for the Learn to Cycle Park in the town which is siituated opposite the Enniscorthy Sports Hub. Left: The Draisin "Andros" Wheelchair Platform Trike. Above: The REHA Adapted Tricycle. Above right: Cllr Aidan Browne who was instrumental in securing the Learn to Cycle Park for Enniscorthy and is a strong advocate for accessibility for all.

Three bikes have been ordered and a unit to store the bicycles has also been procured. It is anticipated that the bikes will be available to the public in early January. n

John hangs up his camogie whistle After 13 years as a camogie referee at adult level, John O’Rourke has hung up the whistle for the last time saying, “It has been an honour to referee at county finals at all levels over those years. I have made many friends along all the byeways during my time and enjoyed every minute of it.

“I thank all those who supported me, appointed me for games, officiated with me over the years as umpires and travelled with me to nearly every corner of the county and other counties in good weather and bad alike. It has been an absolute blast, and the banter with all great craic. I thank you all for your respect and support to me over the years. I have great memories and fondness for all of you who I have encountered. Thank you so much. CAMOGIE ABÚ.” n The recent Rathnure versus Blackwater county final was John’s last.

St Patrick’s School, Enniscorthy, at their upcoming Christmas Fair will have 66 crafters showcasing fabulous designs, hot food by Btwenty7, Santa and Mrs Claus, carol singers, donut van, kids’ carousels, monster raffle etc so all are invited along to support the wonderful students of St Patrick’s School. And remember, there’s no cover charge! Enquiries to Catherine: 086 407 9966.

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Magnificent carving presented to Enniscorthy Municipal District A magnificent carving on what is believed to be an ox shoulder bone and dating back more than 100 years has been presented to Enniscorthy Municipal District on permanent loan by a family from Plymouth in England.

Five members of the Murphy family whose late father, Pat Murphy, was a native of Craheen, Clonhaston, Enniscorthy, travelled from Plymouth to make the presentation in the belief that the historic carving rightly belongs to the people of Enniscorthy.

Little is known of the carving other than that the historic piece is believed to have been carved by an in-patient at St. Senan’s Hospital sometime in the early years of the 1920s. Because of a restriction on the use of knives by patients in the hospital at that time, it is believed a nail was used to create the intricate Celtic patterns on the carving and the inscriptive writings which contain the words ‘Beautiful Ireland, oh will you ever be free’. Nothing is known of the person who carved the piece but the initials L. Mc.F. may possibly provide a clue as to his or her identity.

What is known is that the piece was given to the late Edward (Ned) Murphy of Craheen, Clonhaston, Enniscorthy, a Psychiatric Nurse at St. Senan’s Hospital in the early to middle years of the 20th century and he, in turn, gave it to his son, Pat, when emigrating to England in the late 1950s. It has remained as a prize

L-R: John Murphy, Ruth Murphy, Edel Nolan, Staff Officer Enniscorthy Municipal District, accepting the carving on behalf of the town of Enniscorthy, Mark Murphy, Aidan Murphy, Paul Murphy.

possession of the Murphy family ever since and always occupied pride of place in the family home.

Conscious of the historic significance of the piece and in the belief that the carving rightly belongs to the people of Enniscorthy, the late Pat Murphy’s five children, Mark, Paul, Aidan, John and Ruth, recently took the collective decision to travel to Enniscorthy and to present the carving to the Municipal Authority in the hope of it being displayed publicly for the enjoyment of all.

That presentation took place last month amid great excitement at the Council offices, with Edel Nolan, Staff Officer, gratefully accepting the carving on behalf of the elected members and the people of the town. It is now hoped to have the piece encased in glass and mounted on a wall in the main office where it can be viewed by the general public.

The Murphy family members, though all born in England, have maintained strong links with Enniscorthy and during their most recent trip visited the homestead of their father and grandparents at Craheen, Clonhaston, while also visiting their many first cousins, the Donohoe family of Clondaw, Ferns, and Clonhaston, Enniscorthy, and the Dempsey

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family of Meelnagh, Oulart, where they stayed for the duration of their trip.

Even though information on the magnificent carving, which measures approximately 15”x10”, and on the person responsible, is scarce, any information in helping identify the carver would be greatly appreciated by members of the Murphy family who have lovingly cared for the piece since it came into their possession many, many years ago. n

SLANEy NEwS

A new monthly column by GreenTechHQ

Fostering Sustainability and Innovation in Enniscorthy Welcome to GreenTechHQ’s first column! We thought we would share a little about who we are and what we do.

Situated in the heart of Enniscorthy at Senan House in Enniscorthy Technology Park, GreenTechHQ is a dynamic and engaging sustainability innovation hub. Already making waves in the Southeast of Ireland, it was founded by Ed Murphy, a seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for nurturing business growth. GreenTechHQ aims to create a thriving landscape for start-ups and scaling businesses.

GreenTechHQ provides a conducive environment for businesses, offering secure connectivity, hot desks, offices, and event spaces suitable for both small and large groups. This innovative hub caters to those seeking remote work within a collaborative business habitat.

More than just a workspace, GreenTechHQ is on a mission to ignite the spark of sustainability and innovation. Ed Murphy, CEO of GreenTechHQ, envisions a future where businesses thrive while safeguarding our planet. To achieve this, the hub not only connects businesses with investors, corporations, and mentors but also offers a wide range of services, including marketing, legal, and financial advice.

One of GreenTechHQ's key strengths lies in its commitment to sustainability. The hub provides ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) training and consultancy to ensure that businesses are ready for the 2024 reporting. They assist companies in creating sustainability journeys and even train in-house teams of sustainability champions, equipping them with the skills necessary to drive sustainability within their organisations. Additionally, GreenTechHQ offers support in reviewing a company's CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) and helps in developing CSR programmes that align with sustainability goals, enhancing the company's culture and benefiting the surrounding community.

In a symbiotic partnership with The Innovation Exchange, an initiative of Skillnet, GreenTechHQ has opened doors for Southeast businesses to access tangible returns for their scaling forecasts. The Innovation Exchange connects large businesses facing innovation challenges with ambitious SMEs that can fast-track solutions. This collaboration provides valuable networking opportunities and the chance to pitch solutions to global companies, which was previously unavailable in the region.

Liz McGonigal, a key figure in this partnership, emphasises the positive atmosphere at the recent information event held by The Innovation Exchange at GreenTechHQ. “This event marked the beginning of an exciting journey towards continued growth of sustainable innovation in the Southeast, promising opportunities for businesses to expand and connect with global corporations”, she said.

Ed Murphy, CEO of GreenTechHQ, is enthusiastic about the journey they are embarking on, which seeks to transform the Southeast into a hub of sustainable excellence and business success.

In summary, GreenTechHQ is not just a workspace; it's a catalyst for sustainability and innovation in Enniscorthy. Through their dynamic approach and partnerships like The Innovation Exchange, they are creating an ecosystem where businesses can thrive, connect with global players, and work towards a sustainable future. It's an exciting journey that promises growth and innovation for the Southeast.

Join GreenTechHQ in shaping a sustainable future and be a part of this Southeast sustainability business collaborative where innovation meets opportunity. n

L-R: Conor Carmody and Sinead O’Riordan of the Innovation Exchange with Ed Murphy, CEO, GreenTechHQ

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Enniscorthy’s Niamh in running for major national award ENNISCORTHY JOURNALIST NIAMH DEVEREUX IS IN THE RUNNING FOR A MAJOR NATIONAL AWARD FOR SHINING A LIGHT ON BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER (BPD).

Niamh is deputy editor for Irish Country Magazine and is overwhelmed to be shortlisted for the national Mental Health Media Awards. The other nine nominees include well-known names such as PJ Gallagher.

Niamh worked in the Enniscorthy Echo before moving to VIP magazine and has since moved to Irish Country Magazine.

Niamh says, "I'm over the moon to be nominated for a Mental Health Media Award for my feature on Borderline Per-

sonality Disorder in Irish Country Magazine. I started The Invisible Struggle series in the magazine earlier this year, to shine a light on health conditions that cause women to silently struggle; to share their stories and ask experts for advice on how to best cope. I've also covered Endometriosis, Perimenopause, Lyme Disease and Psoriasis so far, all of which are conditions that affect mental health in a myriad of ways, as well as causing challenging physical symptoms.

It's a privilege to be able to use my platform in this wonderful magazine to share information that may help readers, and make them feel seen."

One can read Niamh's superb article called The Invisible Struggle of Border-

line Personality Disorder at https://headline.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Niamh-Devereux-IrishCountry-Magazine.pdf n

The Manse for sale

For sale for €950,000 by DNG McCormack Quinn, The Manse, Cathedral St, Enniscorthy, 8 Bed, 4 Bath, 635 m².

To assist St Aidan’s Parish, Enniscorthy, with its finances, the outstanding landmark period residence ‘The Manse’ with its large private gardens in the town centre, has been put up for sale for the first time in its history. The parochial house stands on an elevated site beside the Cathedral with exceptional views over the town and Vinegar Hill.

The residence, which was designed by Thomas Slevin Architects, was built in the early years of the 20th century and appears in Ireland’s National Inventory of Architectural Heritage. n

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Still time to make a child smile this Christmas Team Hope are busy gearing up for Christmas. Their 2023 Christmas Shoebox Appeal is well under way and aims to spread smiles worldwide by delivering as many gift-filled shoeboxes as possible to children for whom poverty is their every-day reality.

Team Hope is calling on parents, children, teachers, families and communities to build-a-box at home or online to help them reach their goal of 200,000 shoeboxes this year. Every shoebox equals a smile on a child’s face in 12 countries across Africa and Eastern Europe – that’s got to be a target worth achieving!

Last year, 6,357 Wexford shoeboxes went to Burkina Faso to make children like Elijah smile. Twelve year old Elijah lives with his mum, his brother and his sister. He is so grateful to the family that made his shoebox and for all the beautiful gifts.

Thanks to the school supplies in his shoebox he will now be able to attend school and hopes to become an engineer one day!

It has never been easier to build a shoebox. All you have to do is find an empty shoebox, wrap it in Christmas paper and fill it with gifts for a boy or girl aged between 2 and 14, give online or attach a €5 donation and bring it to a local drop-off point before the deadline of Friday November 10th. Or you can build-a-box online by donating at www.teamhope.ie and one

About Team Hope Team Hope is an Irish, Christian and child-focused international development organisation. Founded in 2010, they work in Africa and Eastern Europe to help children affected by poverty or marginalisation.

To date, they have donated 2.5 million shoeboxes to children in need. In 2022 Team Hope delivered 173,563 shoeboxes to 12 different countries: Albania (17,146), Burundi (14,421), Burkina Faso (14,039), Democratic Republic of Congo (7,568), Kenya (2,000), Lesotho (13,903), Malawi (4,267), Romania (25,710), Eswatini (21,034), Transnistria - Moldova (17,535), Rwanda (4,000) and Ukraine (31,940).

The shoeboxes were packed by over 2,000 volunteers in 50 checking centres around Ireland. Eleven 40-foot trucks took the shoeboxes to Eastern Europe and ten 40-foot containers travelled by ship to Africa.

of Team Hope’s local partners will build a box on your behalf on-the-ground and make sure it goes where it’s needed most.

When building your shoebox, think about the 4 W's: WRITE - something to write with. For example, colouring pencils, pens, copy books.

WASH - something to wash with. For example, a bar of soap and a face cloth.

WEAR - something to wear. For example, a hat & scarf, socks, gloves.

WOW - something fun or a novelty. For example, a toy or treat.

Lorna Burt, Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal Coordinator for Co. Wexford, says, “Every shoebox that is sent from families, schools and communities across Ireland brings such joy and happiness to the children we work with in countries in Africa and Eastern Europe. Not only do they receive brilliant, fun and practical gifts, often the only gifts they’ll get that year, but they also understand that a family somewhere in Ireland is thinking of them and wishing them well. That has a huge impact on those children and their families.”

A special focus for the campaign is the Team Hope Shoebox Week which runs this year from November 4th – 10th. To get involved you’ll find plenty of inspiration on gifts to include, or not, in your shoebox, how to donate and where to drop off your shoebox at www.teamhope.ie. For teachers, there are lots of class lesson plans and teaching resources available online. If finding an empty shoebox is proving tricky, Team Hope partner and drop-off point Dealz will be selling flatpack shoeboxes in packs of three in their stores nationwide.

Follow Team Hope on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/team.hope.ireland and Twitter @TeamHopeIreland and Instagram and TikTok @Teamhopeireland n

Enniscorthy Camera Club – new members always welcome The long established and successful Enniscorthy Camera Club is back meeting every second Tuesday at 8pm in the Masonic Lodge, Friary Lane. Potential new members are always welcome to go along and find out more. n

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Focus on Enniscorthy’s eastside

Keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/TempleshannonCommunityandChildcareCentre Enniscorthy Eastside Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/320813591438762 Enniscorthy East Community Development: https://www.facebook.com/EEastCommunity

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A new mediation service for Enniscorthy A new Mediation Service is now available in Templeshannon Community Centre, Enniscorthy. It’s a service that assists people who are in conflict in their relationships, homes, communities, workplaces or otherwise.

Some benefits of Mediation:

Mediation is a process where two or more parties engage in a dialogue facilitated by a neutral Third Party/Mediator. The MediRonan O’Brien ator will assist the parties to identify relevant issues and work towards an agreement.

Mediation can assist the parties to find practical solutions to problems and can also give a sense of emotional freedom from difficulties in a particular relationship.

 Mediation is Impartial i.e. the Mediator will remain neutral and impartial throughout the process.

The person behind this welcome new service in Enniscorthy is Rónán O’Brien – a man who exudes positivity and enthusiasm for Mediation. Rónán is a trained Mediator, accredited by the Mediators Institute of Ireland, who sees his role as assisting two or more people, who are willing to engage in Mediation, to come together and find solutions to difficulties in their relationships.

Rónán has experience as a Solicitor, working in Family Law and Human Rights Law. Rónán has experience in Mediation including Family Mediation and Organisational Mediation, and has a special interest in Community Mediation which can empower individuals and communities, prevent conflict, and develop harmony between community members.

Rónán says, “This weekly Mediation service is open to any local person who wishes to resolve a dispute through negotiation and dialogue and is provided free of charge to people in the community.”

Rónán can also provide interactive training workshops for any groups interested in the area of Mediation/Conflict Resolution.

 Mediation is low cost, time effective, and published statistics show it has roughly 65-80% success rates.  Mediation is Voluntary i.e. both Parties must agree to engage in the Mediation and can leave at any point.  Mediation is Confidential i.e. the Mediator will retain strictest confidentiality.

 Mediation is Self-determining i.e. the Mediator will facilitate the parties involved, but each person retains power over their own decision-making.  Mediation is self-empowering i.e. the Mediator works to empower the parties to make decisions for their own lives.  Mediation is collaborative i.e. the Mediator fosters an atmosphere of collaboration and agreement.

The Enniscorthy Community Mediation service can be used for all types of conflict including:  Local workplace disputes.  Neighbourhood and community disputes, for example, noise-related issues, lifestyle disputes and intercultural issues.  Landlord and tenant disputes.  Small claims issues where a vendor and purchaser wish to engage in mediation.  Inter-personal conflict and relationship difficulties.  Family mediation, for example, sibling issues, inheritance issues, and parental agreements.

When not mediating, Rónán is interested in all forms of personal development and spirituality, and is also an experienced nature guide who enjoys walking and swimming.

Learn more about Rónán and Mediation here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/r%C3%B3n%C3%A1n-obrien-0a1712228/ https://www.themii.ie/members/profile/4054 If you are interested as an individual or as a group in Mediation, please contact Rónán by email at: ronanobrieno@gmail.com n

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Sustainable

Enniscorthy

A monthly column

The local Sustainable Enniscorthy group topic this month is Sustainability & Education.

How to build Sustainability into your Career and Education Plan So many of us want to do our bit to positively influence our environment. There is great energy and motivation to improve our environment but we often feel limited by our lack of knowledge.

This is where both short and long term courses can add to our skills in a meaningful way.

But where do you start? Perhaps begin with what you want to know more about and are curious and open to exploring. If you are in employment there are a range of upskilling options that you can begin your journey in a low risk way. In addition to this, for those considering studying full time in college there are a range of excellent Degrees and Masters Programmes that are embracing the changes that are needed. Third level education institutions are increasingly including a greater emphasis on sustainability education as it is now rapidly emerging as a key skill for all workplaces.

We reviewed education options and we picked out just a small taster to help you begin your search: 1. This is a super short course to build your knowledge on reducing energy use at home and in work. It takes 90 minutes to complete. Free and online. E-College is a SOLAS website. While you are there, have a look around other interesting programmes. https://www.ecollege.ie/courses/energy-you-reduce-your-use/ 2. The Further Education and Training Centre in Bunclody has recently built a fabulous kitchen and over the last couple of months ran a number of short courses in Reducing Food Waste. The focus is on fermenting, pickling and how to manage leftover food. We are hearing great feedback from those who have attended. Log onto Fetchcourses.ie and search Wexford and sub location Bunclody. Keep checking every couple of weeks for new options.

Support Sustainable Enniscorthy by following us on Facebook or Instagram.

Website: www.sustainableenniscorthy.com Contact us to get involved!

Advisor (WWETB) for your area. Contact servicestobusiness@wwetb.ie if your company is unsure who their Training Advisor is. There are a suite of excellent programmes such as Environmental Sustainability in the Workplace (level 5) and Environmental Sustainability Awareness (Level 4). They can arrange something bespoke for your company or alternatively you and your colleagues can join a planned programme. Well worth reaching out to them. Also check out https://www.solas.ie/programmes/skills-to-advance/Training-Programmes/ Logging onto https://www.fetchcourses.ie/course/finder and checking online options too is a good idea.

4. All of the universities in Ireland offer both undergraduate and postgraduate options. This is useful for those pursuing a particular career or a specialism. Log onto https://www.qualifax.ie/ to begin your search.

5. There are a wide range of diploma, degree and postgraduate options available free to those that are unemployed and low cost to those that are in employment. These are generally blended learning which means most of the time you learn online from home with infrequent visits to the college campus.

This is heavily government funded education to address various skills shortages including environmental/green skills. https://springboardcourses.ie/ 6. Enniscorthy is very much at the centre of things when it comes to upskilling for the construction sector. The NZEB Centre is on the Old Dublin Road. Their focus is to upskill carpenters, plumbers and builders on Nearly Zero Energy Building principles and practices.

We hope you have found something of interest to you as you continue your sustainability journey. If in doubt where to start, our top tip is to begin with a short course in an area of curiosity for you, and enjoy! n

3. If you are working and would like to find how you and your colleagues can upskill through the Skills to Advance fund, ask your HR department/Manager to contact the Senior Training

If you would like to get involved in Sustainable Enniscorthy or be kept informed of our initiatives, please follow us on Facebook or Instagram. Email: sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com Website: www.sustainableenniscorthy.com Contact us to get involved!

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Expressing concern over vaping AT THE SEPTEMBER MEETING OF ENNISCORTHY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT, CLLR BARBARA-ANNE MURPHY EXPRESSED HER CONCERN AT THE OPENING OF A SECOND VAPE SHOP IN A SMALL TOWN LIKE BUNCLODY. MEANWHILE HER PARTY COLLEAGUE GOREY SENATOR MALCOLM BYRNE HAS SAID...

"Planned government legislation to restrict the sale of vaping products should provide that the products would only be available on prescription to those seeking to give up smoking cigarettes.

"There is now overwhelming evidence as to the dangers that vaping products cause to young people. These are tobacco products that are being targeted at the young. Not alone do we need to ban the sale of vapes to under 18s, we need to ban flavoured vapes and place the products in plain packaging.

"The legislation coming forward needs to take on the tobacco industry and to put public health first. Else we will see a generation of people addicted to vapes.

"It is HSE policy to recommend against using vapes so why are we not taking tougher action?"

Senator Byrne was critical of the delay in bringing forward the legislation to restrict sales to under 18s and said we need to act with an urgency to address this "scourge".

He added that disposable vapes are a major form of litter and also need to be banned.

Senator Byrne has met with several youth groups that have expressed serious concern about how young people are taking up vaping.

He has indicated that he will not support any legislation that is not tough enough in protecting young people. n

Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy and Senator Malcolm Byrne

Pulling for HOPE Well done to young Enniscorthy men Mark Kavanagh and TJ Owens who have presented the Hope Cancer Support Centre with an impressive cheque for €3,262 being proceeds from their recent ‘Hope In to Pull’ fundraiser in which they pulled and pushed a metal strawberry trailer from Vicarstown in Co. Kildare to the Electric Picnic festival in Stradbally, Co. Laois.

They made the remarkable journey not just along 10km of bumpy roads but a journey of hope and remembrance of their own loved ones lost to cancer. n

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SUBMISSION TO WEXFORD COUNTY CO ENNISCORTHY TOWN CENTRE REG TOWN TALK

THE FOLLOWING IS KEITH DOYLE’S FULL SUBMISSION TO WEXFORD COUNTY COUNCIL ON THE PROPOSED ENNISCORTHY TOWN CENTRE REGENERATION PROJECT INTRODUCTION

This submission comes from the position of obtaining an in-depth and intimate local knowledge of the delicate and finely balanced traffic and parking regime in Enniscorthy. This is due to being in the Council system for 25 years working alongside council officials and engineers attempting to constantly improve the ever increasing demands on traffic and parking. The aims and terms of reference of the policy paper requires the plan to eliminate traffic dominance unsustainable through traffic. I could not find any reference that this non statutory paper would take precedence over the long established national policy of supporting and encouraging the economic prosperity of town centres. It is also a fact that this paper does not take precedence over the national policy of encouraging and providing sustainable living over shops in town centres. I will be outlining, using data provided by the Council, why this plan in its current form fails in its aims and threatens the very existence of the economic and community life of the town.

Part 8 is a process that should dissect all the submissions and answer them in detail backed up with the relevant data. This process should also give the Elected Representatives the consequences of implementing such a plan. It is also best practice to offer the Councillors options and changes to the plan that would correct and minimise the negative impacts of such a plan. At the end of this process the Councillors should have all the details coming from this Part 8 process to make more rounded and informed decisions. I think the aim of all concerned is to have a plan to regenerate the town centre that is fit for purpose and that works better for the community at large. I propose to divide my sub-

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WITH KEITH DOYLE mission into two parts (1) Traffic Flow and (2) Parking.

TRAFFIC FLOW The data on the junction turning points was manual classification counts compiled Thursday 20th October and Saturday 22nd October 2022. This is not a true reflection of the data on an ordinary School Run Day. (A) The transfer of vehicle traffic from the Market Square to Barrack Street – Island Road junction on a daily basis at the two peak times is as follows: between 8am to 9am an extra 469 cars in that hour and between 5pm to 6pm an extra 504 cars that hour. This is an increase of between 450 to 500 cars in a peak hour STOPPING at a traffic light at the Barrack hill – Island Road junction. These 500 cars in that hour are fed onto the Island Road by a rotation, a 90 second traffic light system at an average of 4 seconds per car. In section 5.2 of your traffic impact assessment it identified that the junction in question is a critical node in the viability of the project. However the figures compiled are based off data compiled by a manual classification count on Thursday 20th and Saturday

22nd October 2022 which does not reflect a typical school run day. It also does not consider the impact of making the bridge one carriageway and the real extra degree of difficulty feeding on to traffic on the bridge. This is another significant factor in its viability as it will cause the numbers calculated capable of accessing from Barrack Street to reduce drastically. A traffic jam already exists at peak times from the bridge to the Barrack junction. This existing bottleneck will limit the quantity of cars that will be able to turn right onto Island Road at each and every 90 second rotation. In short, I question not the study itself, but the worth of the data provided as it does not reflect the peaks on a school run week day. The existing bottleneck accessing the bridge and the implications of the one carriageway on the bridge.

Unchecked, will not the combination of factors alter the viability of the traffic flow. I also feel that providing a left turn lane at this junction would certainly help matters.

(B) The closing-off of the road passing through the Market Square may indeed tick the box with this project but it has been a vital artery in times of crises. It is one of the few roads that does flow relatively good despite the vehicle count data. This is because it comes out on to a critical roundabout. I say that it is critical because this artery has being a release valve for traffic in times of crashes and flooding. When the quays or Island Rd are out of action this road has served us well in easing the traffic. The Market Square route has taken the traffic and dispersed it to the Abbey roundabout and on to Edermine Bridge. The inner relief road has failed in this task time and time again as it is up to max capacity on a daily basis. I can also make the argument that flies in the face of the policy that it will indeed impact on the small shops in the centre of the town. Between this road closure and the slashing of car parking, it is inevitable that there will be closures and relocations from the centre.

Despite the advent of online shopping

SLANEy NEwS

OUNCIL ON THE PROPOSED GENERATION PROJECT there are many who utilise the shops provided in the town centre. This number is mostly made up of the elderly and the middle aged. They do not necessarily have or need a disability badge but still require getting close to their destination. This brings me on to the Parking losses.

PARKING (A) The report goes on to assess whether a net loss of 87 car parking spaces will impact the availability of public car parking in the town centre.

This section completely disregards parking habits and practicalities. One should only assess public spaces and not private as they are private. Table 27 shows car parking spots within a 10 minute walk from the centre of town.

No elderly shopper is going to park 10 minutes away in order to do their shopping nor should they be asked to. This is where the policy becomes important and this plan fails to point out how they propose to manage the available spaces and also make available spaces for shoppers. Without this in place this plan is doomed and so is the economic life of the town as we know it today. So the spaces on the survey not applicable due to being private total 319.

The Abbey Square totalling 155 should be discounted as it is earmarked by the Council for development and not car parking. The Fair Green car park 28 is for parents to drop off their children to school in order to reduce the traffic outside the school. Train station vacancy is for the station customers of Templeshannon businesses.

The bulk of what is left, for example Island Road car park with 19 vacancies, Millyard Lane car park with vacancy of 40, Parnell Road vacancy 25 and Abbey Square (until it is developed) vacancy of 52. The spaces mentioned are not suitable for the shopping clientele but are good for long-term parkers such as the 63 commercial ticket holders. The survey does not show that the principal car park for the shoppers (Lymington Road car park) is 80% full at 9.30am with commercial ticket holders. This

has to be addressed as part of the solution of where the shoppers can park.

The survey does not show where the current 89 residents ticket holders are and where are they to go. The survey does not show the three new planning permissions granted in the recent months for multiple apartments in the centre of town which will exceed over a dozen apartments and where are those permit holders going to go. I would encourage more people to live in the centre which will require more permits.

It was stated to me that the loss of the 87 prime shopping spaces would be offset by 28 new spaces in the Murphy Floods site. I fail to see how there won’t be a deficit in that site with 24 apartments and a library on the site.

The loss of 87 prime shopper-based car parking spaces would be classed as excessive in any major city but acutely so in a town like Enniscorthy. Given that the survey does not offer a workable alternative to the loss of the car parking spaces I would ask that the figure be revised downwards in order to try and sustain the viability of the retail economy that currently exists.

Finally, we were told that this project is a package deal and the pedestrianisation and the loss of car parking is to draw down the funding for the whole project. This includes the development of Templeshannon, the Murphy Floods site and the Castle Nightclub site. This is sold as an all or nothing deal. This may be the case to draw down this particular funding but clarification is required at the highest level that the three projects have been on the Council capital funding programme for some years and can stand on their own merits to acquire other sources of funding if required. I feel that the project as it stands is flawed due to a specific narrative of data to fit a requirement. I would ask that it would be stress tested by introducing the lights and diverting the traffic for a whole school week. That will answer many questions. Failing this, I would think it may be a high price to pay just to obtain funding. n

Minister James Browne confirms national award for Prof Keeley

Professor Howard Keeley.

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has expressed his delight that the Cabinet has nominated Professor Howard Keeley for Ireland’s Presidential Distinguished Service Award.

“Professor Keeley has strong ties to County Wexford arising from his role as Director of Georgia Southern University’s Center for Irish Research and Teaching. The University’s Wexford Campus has given opportunities to strengthen ties between Ireland and the US, which has contributed to the south-eastern economy through increased trade and tourism.

“Professor Keeley’s work in promoting the TradeBridge initiative has empowered trade and investment between the South East and the USA state of Georgia, by developing new export markets and job creation opportunities. Professor Keeley’s vision has been instrumental in creating this innovative trade corridor and I want to commend everyone who has rowed in behind this initiative, including local County Councillor BarbaraAnne Murphy.

“I congratulate Professor Keeley on receiving the Cabinet nomination for this award and I commend him for all his hard work in developing ties shared between Co. Wexford and Georgia,” Minister Browne concluded. n

4th November 2023 - Page 35

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

Information sharing Wexford County Council has developed a free online information sharing portal for not-for-profit community owned facilities to inform the public and promote usage.

You can submit facility details at: https://arcg.is/1nnjev n

ENNISCORTHY FÁILTE WELCOMING UKRAINIAN REFUGEES CONTACT DETAILS: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthyfailte Email: enniscorthyfailte@gmail.com

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

Enniscorthy Christian Fellowship

Oulart storytelling house At Bygone Days Storytelling House in Oulart, a great welcome awaits all, with good music, songs, stories and plenty of craic, tea and refreshments served. Eircode: Y25 YP70.

For details of upcoming events keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/bygonedayshouseofstories n

The Children’s Discovery Club meets every Tuesday during term-time in the Gaelscoil in Enniscorthy from 4.30pm till 6pm. All children aged 5-12 years old are welcome for challenges, games, Bible story, songs and fun. There is no charge for this club.

For more information contact Lorna on 085 1367341 or check out our website www.enniscorthychristianfellowship.ie n

Enniscorthy Women Walking Together The group meets Monday - Thursday at Eurogiant Carpark at 7pm and also has a WhatsApp group.

Check out their Facebook page: ‘Enniscorthy Women Walking Together’.

Enniscorthy Toastmasters The group meeets fortnightly on Tuesdays in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy, at 8pm. All welcome! https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorthy-Toastmasters129333810455771 for updates. n

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SLANEy NEwS WORLD TURMOIL There’s turmoil all over the world.

Wars, earthquakes, famine, mass shootings in the United States on a daily basis and regimes like the Taliban in Afghanistan and the Ayatollahs in Iran who physically abuse women and girls simply because of their gender with little prospect of any improvement anywhere anytime soon.

The biggest problem with all of this is the helplessness of the majority of decent people everywhere. Only powerful governments can eventually solve some of these issues, particularly the wars and famines by imposing their powerful will on both sides in conflict to halt aggression, and talk. The chance of influencing the Taliban or Ayatollahs is somewhat remote and probably not resolved without further strife.

How can we as a small, non-aligned (allegedly) nation influence all of this? By continuously using our voice at the United Nations to call for assistance for those who need it and calling on those with the power to directly influence change to use it.

Back in the days of the late Frank Aiken being Minister for External Affairs, Ireland had a massive voice at the United Nations.

We were recognised as a real power broker because of our influence with the emerging nations of Africa and elsewhere and we were highly respected, if not loved, by the most powerful brokers such as the United States and the Soviet Union. Since then, our impact has diminished despite being members of the Security Council from time to time. We are now just another voice in the wilderness.

One of the reasons for

culated by Europe to the extent that we have to ask permission prior to taking a stance on any major issue.

Our forefathers, and people like Liam Cosgrave who as Minister for External Affairs brought us into the UN in the 1950s, and Frank Aiken who formulated our foreign policy through the 60s and early 70s, would be very disappointed at the position which we are in today.

View from the Centre

A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond this is our total subservience to the E.U. where we roll over and allow that cartel of nations dictate our foreign policy through unelected spokespersons such as Ursula von der Leyen who actually represents nobody whatsoever in terms of our people here in Ireland. Our independent foreign policy has been emas-

The answer has to be somewhere between doing a Brexit and continuing to roll over. When the EEC was formed first and we joined, it was not explained to the people of Ireland or any country that this bloc of nations would be more than an economic one. The smart boys and girls in Europe, once they got us in, over time changed the name from the European Economic Community to that of simply the European Union. This was all carefully crafted over a few decades with the result that we are now neutered nations.

Not a great problem if we have a world at peace. But we have not got that privilege or unfortunately by the nature of things are we likely to have. We have a world at war and strife.

This is a time for Ireland to stand up and be counted on

Unelected spokesperson, Ursula von der Leyen

the World Stage.

However, Europe has us spanceled and our leaders, if they have any genuine interest, should go about loosening those ties to give us our voice back. Irish foreign policy should belong to us and not some autocrat based in Brussels who condescends to visit us once every couple of years when they want a break from the boredom of their well paid jobs.

Let’s speak out and be unafraid. n

4th November 2023 - Page 37

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Minister Humphries launches Ennis Geodesic Dome and Sensory Garde

Left and above: Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humpherys TD officially opening the new Geodesic Dome and Sensory Garden at Enniscorthy Community Allotments on 26th October 2023.

Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys TD attended the launch of Enniscorthy Community Allotment’s new Geodesic Dome Training Centre and Sensory Garden on Thursday 26th October. The project was funded through the Community Recognition Fund and the Sláintecare Healthy Communities Programme.* The Geodesic Dome and Sensory Garden are spaces for the local community to train and learn about new horticultural methods; the future of sustainability, healthy food products, etc as well as helping to achieve mental well-being.

The Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr. John Fleming thanked Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA) Chairman Michael Devereux, the ECA committee, the stakeholders, workers, volunteers and the local community, for the hard work in achieving such an extraordinary and unique project for Enniscorthy.

Cllr. Fleming noted, “The Enniscorthy Community Allotments are a model for sustainability and connecting with nature; for encouraging growth and wellbeing, in both the natural world and within ourselves. Looking out at the wonderful horticultural allotments, I am sure the Minister is delighted to see and taste the literal fruits of the funding, here this morning.”

Speaking while in Enniscorthy, Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys TD said: “I want to pay tribute

to the Enniscorthy Community Allotments for working closely with the local authority in delivering this wonderful project. The dome will serve as a training centre... and will become a growing space for learning about food production. This is fantastic as we all aim to become more sustainable and more environmentally conscious.”

The Minister continued: “Projects like this one here in Enniscorthy, and the thousands of others funded by my Department of Rural and Community Development, are empowering rural towns and villages to be better places in which to live and work and raise a family. This funding is also making them more inviting places for both domestic and international tourists to enjoy.”

Michael Devereux said, "The ECA goes beyond being a community garden by creating an inclusive environment that welcomes individuals of all ages, ethnicities, and abilities. We as adults must lay the foundations for the next generation and remove the burdens of life's anxieties. To plant a garden is to believe in a tomorrow.”

Laura Cassin of SETU and Kildalton Agricultural College noted the involvement of students from Kildalton College who were responsible for the design of the sensory garden. She welcomed the initiative saying “'this was a fantastic opportunity for students to learn from and engage with a community project which I would hope to see more of in future.” n

Left: Minister Heather Humphreys with Enniscorthy Community Allotments committee and members.

Above: Mary Dunphy, Claire Lawless (Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager), Billy Murphy.

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scorthy Community Allotments’ new en

Minister James Browne TD, Paul Kehoe TD, and Minister Heather Humphreys enjoying the Halloween spirit.

Minister Heather Humphreys with local politicians and officials and Chairman of Enniscorthy Community Allotments Michael Devereux on extreme right.

* Sláintecare Healthy Communities: Launched nationally in October 2021, the Sláintecare Healthy Communities €13m fund is a cross-government initiative to deliver increased health and wellbeing services to 19 community areas across Ireland. While funded nationally by the Department of Health and managed locally by Wexford County Council and the HSE, there are many other community partners actively involved also. *Community Recognition Fund: €50 million has been made available nationally under the Fund, with approximately €1.5m allocated to 27 projects across County Wexford; with 5 community projects being supported in the Enniscorthy Municipal District alone.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council Cllr John Fleming (left) with Minister Humphreys and Michael Devereux (Chairman ECA), with the new Geodesic Dome in the background.

Below: Paul Kehoe TD, Minister Humphreys, and Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan.

Michael Devereux showing the Minister around.

Right: Annette Byrne doing likewise.

Left: Michael Devereux (Chairman of Enniscorthy Community Allotments) at the podium. Above: Cllr John O’Rourke, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District, addresses the attendees.

4th November 2023 - Page 41

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Rosslare Europort €166m project gets underway Minister O’Donovan turns the sod to mark official commencement of the major €166m project for Rosslare Europort.

Pic: Mary Browne

Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Mr. Patrick O’Donovan TD, was in Rosslare Europort on 12th October 2023 to mark the commencement of works for Rosslare Europort Terminal 7 and enabling works.

These upgrade works are necessary to provide permanent Brexit infrastructure at Rosslare Europort to ensure compliance with EU Customs, sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) and official food controls legislation, thereby providing protection for the EU single market.

Following a competitive tender process, the Office of Public Works (OPW) awarded John Paul Construction the contract and work has commenced on site.

Speaking in Rosslare, Minister O’Donovan said: “I am delighted to see that works have commenced on site now for this critically important State infrastructure in Rosslare Europort. The size of this project is vast – 28 new permanent buildings – and will provide the permanent infrastructure required for a new border control post and improved processing facilities at one of our largest and busiest ports in the country.

“The OPW has worked very closely with all State agencies and the Port Authority, Iarnród Éireann, to bring this project to this important milestone. Rosslare Europort continues to operate as a live operational port and the OPW, together with main contractor John Paul Construction, are working closely and collaboratively with the port authorities to ensure that this immense

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construction project will proceed in tandem with the busy operations of Rosslare.”

Minister O’Donovan concluded: “Not only will this multi-million investment by the Government provide all the necessary facilities for Revenue, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the Department of Health/HSE and the Department of Justice and An Garda Síochána, it will also greatly assist in the development of Rosslare and the wider South-East region. I look forward to seeing the project develop in the months ahead.”

The Rosslare Europort Terminal 7 and Enabling Works project will see a new terminal built and a new Border Control Post set up. Works will include the demolition of existing buildings and construction of 28 new permanent buildings totalling circa 9,361m2.

These buildings include facilities for a range of activities such as An Garda Síochána Immigration facility, a Revenue Enforcement and Stopping Area, live animal inspection facilities for equine and domestic pets, checks on animal products, regulated plant products and foods of non-animal origin entering the Union.

There will also be a new main access road, a roundabout, internal road and freight entrance plaza along with significant hardstanding and truck-set/car-storage facilities to be constructed.

The Terminal 7 facility will facilitate the processing and exit routes from the passenger and freight ferries that use Rosslare Europort. The construction works will cost approximately €166m.

SLANEy NEwS Pic: Mary Browne

Background: Temporary facilities at Kilrane Due to the short timeframe available to provide facilities in advance of the first potential Brexit date of 29 March 2019, the OPW developed infrastructure at Kilrane – some 1.3 kilometres outside the Port – for the State as a temporary solution pending the development of permanent infrastructure. This approach ensured that customs and SPS checks and controls could be undertaken on UK goods traffic from the end of March 2019.

During 2019 and 2020, the OPW enhanced the temporary facilities in Kilrane. At the same time, the OPW advanced the detailed design of a permanent solution within Rosslare Europort in conjunction with the Revenue Commissioners, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and the Department of Health/HSE and planning permission was secured in November 2021.

Terminal 7 works are just part of the overall €350m plan for the port and its environs comprising port, OPW and road infrastructure developments.

Rosslare Europort Masterplan, including port digitalisation: These works will reflect its status as Ireland’s Gateway to Europe and will include new freight and passenger facilities, storage, export and import facilities, berth extension. Matching the port’s physical transformation, a digitalisation of systems and operations is also planned which will deliver a better, more effective and more efficient Port, to become Ireland’s most advanced digitalised port Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Hub development, including an ORE purpose-built quay and berth, ORE quayside storage and pre-construction / up to 50 acres in area, navigable channel dredged down to a minimum of 9 metres depth, and management Control Centre & management offices and facilities Office of Public Works Project T7, to develop a permanent Border Control Post within the port, to provide the facilities and systems for all aspects of Border Control New TII N25 Rosslare Europort Access Road will ensure a better experience for port users and enhance quality of life for those living and working in the area by taking trucks out of the village and improving access and connectivity to the port.

The Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD has welcomed the official marking of the start of construction on the new large-scale project at Rosslare Europort which involves building an integrated Border Control Post (BCP), Garda and Customs Controls Facility.

The Border Control Post will be known as ‘Terminal 7’ and the upgrade works are the most significant ever undertaken in the Port’s history and one of the largest projects in the State this year.

Having campaigned for investment in Rosslare Europort as an opposition TD, Minister James Browne secured a commitment in the Programme for Government that specifically prioritised investment at Rosslare Europort. This was the first time in the history of the state that Rosslare Europort was specifically mentioned in a programme for government.

Speaking at Rosslare Europort, Minister Browne said: “I'm delighted that the transformational investment I've long campaigned for has officially begun. This is the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Rosslare Europort as construction of this new project gets underway and will facilitate the port becoming a Tier 1 port."

“I'm particularly pleased that my own Department of Justice has a central role with a new modern, fit-for-purpose Garda facility a core part of the Minister Browne at project. Rosslare Europort Rosslare Europort. is a strategic point of entry into Ireland. I would like to acknowledge and commend the Garda staff and all the staff working at Rosslare Europort for the important work they do daily, concluded Minister Browne. n

4th November 2023 - Page 43

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Brendan decides not to run BRENDAN HOWLIN HAS ANNOUNCED HIS INTENTION NOT TO RUN IN THE NEXT GENERAL ELECTION...

“After the next General Election that task will fall to others. For my part I will continue to work to the best of my ability for all Wexford people. I will also do all that I can to ensure that our great county continues to be served by a Labour TD in the decades to come.”

In a statement he said: “I wish today to inform my constituents in Wexford and the broader Labour family that having served as an elected member of Dáil Éireann continuously since 1987, I will not be contesting the next General Election.

“It has been and remains the privilege of my life to have represented my beloved Wexford in nine consecutive Dáileanna. I am forever grateful for the support I have received for almost four decades from the Wexford people and the wonderful members of the Labour Party. I remember those friends and comrades who have passed on down the years whose loyalty and fellowship I will always treasure.

“I have been most fortunate to have held many public offices. I have been Leader and Deputy Leader of my party. I have served as a Cabinet Minister in three governments and witnessed the positive transformation of our country, both economically and culturally. I have had the op-

Fellow TD for Co. Wexford, Minister James Browne paid tribute to Deputy Howlin: “I want to wish Brendan every success as he steps down following his distinguished service to the people of County Wexford as a TD, Senator and Councillor.

Brendan Howlin TD

portunity to introduce into law many important and transformative pieces of legislation.

“I am aware that the business of government and public representation is never done. We still have many major challenges to overcome as a people – providing houses for all, eliminating poverty and creating true equality.

“In his 41 years of service as a public representative, Deputy Howlin served with distinction. He was never afraid to make difficult decisions in serving his county and country. He made such decisions with the best interests of his county and country at heart. His family and close friends and supporters can be very proud of him. I hope that he enjoys a long and happy retirement.

Whatever interests Brendan pursues in his retirement, I am sure that he will continue to make a difference in his hometown of Wexford and further afield." n

Letter to the Editor highlighing COPD Dear Editor Did you know that more than two-thirds of the 380,000 people estimated to have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, in Ireland, have absolutely no idea that they have the disease?

To mark the day, people with COPD and their supporters are also being encouraged to take part in the COPD Step Challenge and set themselves a challenge of a target number of steps, individually or as part of a group.

Most regrettably, there will likely be some reading this letter who fall into this category.

To register for the “Step Up and Step Out” exercise masterclass, or to take part in the COPD Step Challenge, visit www.copd.ie

Indeed, according to the National Healthcare Quality Reporting System, between 2019 and 2021, there were 1,388 hospital admissions of people from Wexford due to COPD.

As always, if you have concerns about COPD, call the COPD Adviceline on Freefone 1800 832 146 (Mon-Fri, 9am to 5pm), to make an appointment to speak with a COPD specialist nurse or physiotherapist.

COPD is perhaps more commonly known as chronic bronchitis or emphysema. The sooner it is diagnosed and treated, the better the chances of preventing, or delaying, it from developing into severe COPD.

Yours sincerely,

If you have been experiencing ongoing breathlessness, have a cough that won’t go away, with or without phlegm, and are over the age of 35, then you are urged to seek a spirometry lung check.

Of course, exercise is one of the best things that we can do to improve our breathing and symptoms of COPD. This World COPD Day, Wednesday November 15, from 12 midday to 2pm, COPD Support Ireland will host a “Step Up and Step Out” virtual COPD exercise masterclass.

The online event for people with COPD will feature exercise coaching, physical activity challenges, and presentations from experts with lots of tips on how to stay active.

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Joan Johnston, General Manager, COPD Support Ireland, 51 Bracken Road, Sandyford, Dublin 18. n

SLANEy NEwS

Sporting Memories in Bree

A slice of something nice!

As part of the 50th anniversary celebrations at Edermine Ferry Rowing Club, its members are working in collaboration with the Alzheimer Society of Ireland to host a ‘Sporting Memories’ event to take place in Bree Hall on Sunday November 19th from 2-4pm.

‘Sporting Memories’ is an awareness and support programme involving using the power of reminiscence to help improve health and wellbeing, especially of people living with dementia.

It is the first time such an event, and initiative, has been held with regards to the sport of rowing so the team at Edermine Ferry hope that people from all areas of the county who have participated or supported rowing in the past will attend.

The ‘Sporting Memories’ programme aims to tackle dementia, depression, and loneliness through safe, friendly sessions, led by people with a passion for sport and a desire to help people with dementia, their families and supporters stay engaged in their communities.

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is encouraging people of all ages, including those living with dementia, to attend and reminisce about not only the greatest rowing moments but also reminisce about the fun days the local clubs have spent together at their regattas etc.

This event is suitable for everyone no matter what one’s involvement with rowing was, so if you were a rower, a club member/volunteer or a supporter who just went along on regatta day, this free event is for you to enjoy.

‘Sporting Memories’ brings people together to reminisce about their lives through the medium of sport, using images, video, memorabilia, and other tools to spark memories and encourage social engagement.

CELEBRATING AT ENNISCORTHY CREDIT UNION...

Enniscorthy Credit Union recently joined credit union members around the world to celebrate the 75th anniversary of International Credit Union Day. Credit unions are unique in the financial sector as not-for-profit financial co-operatives owned by, and operated for, the benefit of the members they serve.

All callers to Enniscorthy Credit Union on 19th October were served tea/coffee and a slice of something nice by Hilary Pepper and among those enjoying the occasion were Ann Blackburn (below) and ex credit union staff member Frank Hughes (above).

A draw was also held for all those who did a transaction there on the day. n

A spokesperson for Edermine Ferry says, “We encourage as many as possible, especially those living with dementia and their families, to come along and enjoy this opportunity to relive the rowing moments from the past, to meet former teammates and sporting rivals and to enjoy being part of the rowing community once again.”

The Club is also delighted to be launching its 50th anniversary memory book on the day.

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland and Edermine Ferry would like to express their sincere thanks to Wexford Co. Council and in particular its Sláintecare Healthy Communities and Age Friendly programmes and Healthy Wexford for their generous support of this event.

For further information please contact Tina Kavanagh 087 6301350. n

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Wexford’s Relay For Life €1million milestone Committee, supporters and Ciara Hughes, Relay For Life Campaign Manager (6th from left), present a cheque for €310,000 to the Irish Cancer Society. The cumulative amount donated by Wexford Relay for Life has now reached an incredible €1,000,000.

Sean Dempsey Photography The vibrant and tight-knit community of Wexford came together on 25th October for a momentous event that marked their unwavering support for Relay For Life Wexford.

The occasion was the premiere screening of a heartwarming documentary created by the dedicated Relay For Life Wexford Committee in collaboration with the creative team at Love Wexford Town, who poured countless hours into bringing this project to life on the big screen. The event, hosted by the generous Arc Cinema, treated attendees like VIPs and provided an opportunity for the community to come together for one last event of 2023 and what a way to close out the year!

The documentary, hosted by the charismatic Philip Freeman and the well-known social media personality Paul Scott (PowPowFizz), featured numerous individuals who courageously shared their personal stories. These stories offered profound insights into the deep significance of Relay For Life Wexford in the lives of the people of Wexford, who annually rally together with their teams, families, and friends to support the cause.

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The evening was filled with musical performances that touched the soul, thanks to the talents of the Bride Street Folk Group and the mesmerising Rachel Grace, who delivered a captivating performance recorded in the enchanting Bride Street Church.

Distinguished sponsors, both new and longtime supporters of Relay For Life, joined the event to discuss why they chose to back Relay For Life Wexford. Among them, Pettitt’s, the steadfast partner, 10 West, the main sponsor for 2023, and Sulzer, the main sponsor for 2024, shared their experiences and encouraged other local businesses to become part of this exceptional community-building opportunity.

All reiterated that supporting Relay For Life is not just about giving back but also a unique team-building experience for their staff.

The evening also featured inspirational stories from survivors Annette Healy and Naomi Howlin, underscoring the fact that Relay For Life is first and foremost a spectacular weekend of family-friendly fun for the Wexford community, while also serving as a platform for raising awareness and vital funds for the Irish Cancer Society.

The pinnacle of the event was the presentation of a substantial donation by Relay For Life Wexford, revealing a remarkable fundraising total of €310,000 for this year.

This achievement marks a cumulative fundraising milestone, as Relay For Life Wexford has now raised a staggering €1 million from 2016 to 2023. This outstanding accomplishment is a testament to the enduring legacy of the late Gay Murphy, the remarkable chairperson, who dedicated herself to building the Relay For Life Wexford committee and community from 2016 to the thriving community event it is today.

The committee extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the documentary, the dedicated teams, and the extended community for their remarkable fundraising efforts.

Special thanks go to the Love Wexford Town team for their dedication in crafting this documentary, the unwavering support of the Relay For Life Wexford Committee year after year, Georgina and Ciara at the Irish Cancer Society for their invaluable assistance, and most importantly, deepest thanks to Gay Murphy whose vision brought the Wexford community together on this incredible journey, creating lasting memories that will remain with everyone forever. n

SLANEy SLANEyNEwS ADS Sean Dempsey Photography

Relay for Life walking group L-R: Ann Tormey, Diane Roche, Imelda Lawlor, Bernie Stone, Margaret Fielding and Jayne O’Sullivan.

Left, above and below: Wexford Relay for Life committee members and supporters enjoying the event including Wexford Free Press’ Sean Dempsey (below right)

Sean Dempsey Photography

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Above left: Wexford Relay For Life committee members Siobhan Murphy-Sutton, Jennifer O’Connor, Fiona Murphy and Julie Jackson with Gillian Filan (centre). Above right: Members of Team Danone Dudes, Wexford.

Wexford shines at inaugural Relay For Life national event in Aviva Stadium Wexford proudly represented its vibrant community at the historic inaugural Relay For Life national event, which took place at the iconic Aviva Stadium on the evening of Friday, September 29th.

Survivors, team members, and committee representatives from Wexford were extended a warm welcome as honoured guests by the Irish Cancer Society at this prestigious gathering. The ‘Celebrate and Remember’ event, a condensed version of the 24hour Relay For Life event, captivated attendees during a four-hour window from 6pm to 10pm. The evening was designed to showcase the incredible spirit and significance of Relay For Life, a worldwide phenomenon which has been an annual event in Wexford since 2016.

Wexford's survivors were treated to an unforgettable experience, enjoying premium-level hospitality and an exclusive meet-andgreet opportunity with Relay For Life Ambassador, Shane Filan.

This special occasion also facilitated connections among survivors from various Relay events across the country. The opening ceremony was ignited by the electrifying performance from Extreme Rhythm, a group with strong Wexford connections well-known for their contribution to Wexford Relay For Life events.

At the heart of the event was an emotional ‘Empty Table’ installation created by local artist Helen McLean. This poignant display symbolised the absence of loved ones, reminding all of the pro-

found impact of cancer on families and communities.

A touching poem, 12 Months, written exclusively for Relay For Life Wexford by Sam Freegrove, was recited by the esteemed Global Hero of Hope, Majella O’Donnell. This moving piece preceded the candle-lit tribute, where guests of honour, including Shane Filan, Ciara Dignam, and the Murphy family, illuminated candle bags in memory of their loved ones.

It is worth noting that this remarkable event was a tribute to the late Carmel Murphy, Wexford's Staff Partner with the Irish Cancer Society. Carmel, despite her own battle with cancer, collaborated closely with the Relay For Life committee for several years and was inspired by the work of its late Chairperson Gay Murphy and the amazing survivors and teams in Wexford. Averil Power, CEO of the Irish Cancer Society, recognised Carmel at the event for the pivotal role she played in bringing this national event to fruition.

The ‘Celebrate and Remember’ event featured a star-studded lineup, with appearances by Relay For Life Ambassador Shane Filan, accompanied by his family and bandmate Nicky Byrne. The musical performances included talents like Emma Power and Ciara Dignam, among others, with Newstalk’s Andrea Gilligan serving as the evening's Master of Ceremonies.

Relay For Life continues to inspire communities and individuals to come together in the fight against cancer, showcasing the incredible strength and unity of the Wexford spirit. n

Above left: Committee members Jennifer O’Connor, John Sutton, Debbie Franks, Melrona O’Neill, Julie Jackson and Siobhan Murphy-Sutton.

Above centre: Nicky Byrne, Shane Filan with Debbie and Millie Franks and friend. Above right: Patty O’Connor and Philip Freeman.

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Vaccination programme underway L-R: Derval Howley (Head of Service/Health & Wellbeing, HSE/South East Community Healthcare), Catherine Neary (Acting Chief Officer of HSE/South East Community Healthcare), Kate Cassidy (General Manager/Vaccinations, HSE/South East Community Healthcare), Gillian Buggy (Regional Flu Lead, HSE/South East Community Healthcare) and Dr. Carmel Mullaney (Area Director, HSE’s Dublin and South East Public Health Dept.) supporting the HSE’s Autumn Winter vaccination programme.

The HSE’s Autumn Winter vaccination programme has begun in the South East with the roll out of the free Flu and Covid-19 vaccines to recommended groups.

The Covid-19 Autumn Winter booster vaccine is recommended for:

 People aged 50 and over  People who have a long term health condition

 Healthcare workers  Pregnant women The Flu vaccine is recommended for:

 People aged 65 and over.  People who have a long term health condition

 Healthcare workers  Pregnant women HSE vaccination teams will also provide both vaccines for people living in residential care facilities, including nursing homes, as well as to housebound patients. Both the Flu and Covid-19 vaccines can be given at the same time and will be available from participating GPs and pharmacists across counties Wexford, Carlow, Kilkenny, South Tipperary, and Waterford.

HSE vaccination teams will also administer vaccinations to health and care workers taking place in many HSE workplaces across the region. Locations of these clinics can be accessed at https://healthservice.hse.ie/staff/covid19-and-flu-vaccination-clinics-for-staff/ Acting Chief Officer of HSE/South East Community Healthcare Catherine Neary says: “...one of the best ways of protecting ourselves and our healthcare workers is by getting vaccinated. Covid-19 and influenza will never be eliminated but we can all play our part in reducing the risk of serious illness from winter viruses to ourselves and our loved ones by getting

vaccinated and following public health guidelines.”

taken at the same time as the Flu and Covid-19 vaccines.

Speaking in support of the vaccination campaign under way, Dr. Jacinta Mulroe (Public Health Specialist with the HSE’s Dublin and South East Public Health Dept.) says: “The significance of the vaccination programme in saving people from serious illness and death from Covid-19 is highlighted by recent research undertaken by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) on the impact of the Covid-19 vaccine programme in Ireland on reducing deaths and hospitalisations.

Between December 2021 and March 2023, the study estimates that the vaccination programme prevented 87% of deaths, 81% of hospitalisations and 89% of ICU admissions...”

The children’s Flu vaccine (a nasal spray) has also commenced in schools across the region. Flu vaccine is available from participating GPs and pharmacists for children aged 2-12 years. An extension of this year’s programme will see the vaccine offered by the SECH Covid vaccination team to children in senior infants and all children in primary age special schools this year.

“The Flu vaccine is safe and effective. It helps to protect you from flu. If you can’t get the Flu, you can’t spread the Flu. Less Flu in the community, of course, also alleviates pressure on emergency departments of hospitals and GP practices. As doctors we recommend these vaccines, as they offer significant health benefits and protect people from these illnesses.

To see what vaccines are recommended for you, visit www.hse.ie, call HSELive on 1800 700 700 or talk to a participating GP or pharmacist.

The pneumococcal vaccine (PPV23) which protects against pneumonia, septicaemia and meningitis is also available free of charge from participating GPs for people aged 65 and older. The vaccine can be

Covid-19: Who can be vaccinated now?

Booster doses are available from 2nd October if you are:

 age 50 or older  age 5 or older with a weak immune system

 age 5 to 49 with a condition that puts 

you at high risk of serious illness from COVID-19 a healthcare worker

If you're aged 18 to 49 and not in one of the groups above, you can still request a vaccine. Talk to your GP or pharmacist about your reasons for wanting a booster.

FLU Vaccine You can get the Flu vaccine for free if you are:

 age 65 and older  age 2 to 12  a healthcare worker  pregnant  living in a nursing home or other longterm care facility

 in regular contact with pigs, poultry or 

waterfowl someone with a health condition that puts you at higher risk of Flu (age 6 months and older). n

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St Aidan’s passes with flying colours I was delighted to represent Rapparees/Starlights GAA Club recently at the official opening of St. Aidan`s school extension and refurbishment by Minister for Education Norma Foley.

St. Aidan`s under the guidance of Principal Frank Murphy and Vice Principal Carmen Yeates pulled out all the stops for the occasion with a welcoming party on hand to greet Minister Foley, along with a school choir giving a beautiful rendition of the special St. Aidan`s Friendship song.

Frank Murphy, MC and Principal, thanked TDs Paul Kehoe and Johnny Mythen for being in attendance along with Chairman of the Council John O`Rourke and Councillors Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathal Byrne, Aidan Browne, Jackser Owens, Kathleen Codd-Nolan and made apologies for Minister James Browne who could not attend due to illness.

Minister for Education Norma Foley TD presents St. Aidan’s School with a ‘Cineáltas’ flag meaning kindness.

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Minister Foley delivered an excellent speech with high praise for St. Aidan’s and the positive and inclusive work being done there and like all good teachers had her homework done and concentrated her message on the young among the audience, the students, who listened attentively throughout.

Past pupil, artist, and world-renowned soccer referee Michelle O`Neill made a presentation of one of her paintings of the famous Hook Lighthouse to the Minister and to former school Principal Peter Creedon for the instrumental part he played in the establishment of the new St. Aidan’s.

A lovely social occasion for pupils past and present as refreshments were served and enjoyed as good conversation flowed, with Minister Foley in no hurry at all to terminate her Enniscorthy visit.

– Words and pics by Maria Nolan

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Wednesday 18th October was a special day for St. Aidan's Parish School with the visit by Minister for Education Norma Foley TD to officially open the refurbished and extended school. The Minister received a warm welcome form Principal Frank Murphy, school staff, students and public representatives, and was entertained by a choir from the school.

Minister Foley was very impressed by the school which is one of the biggest primary schools in the country and by the warm welcome she received. She presented the school with a ‘Cineáltas’ (kindness) flag.

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Leah wins top hairdressing award A young Clonegal woman, who is studying hairdressing at Enniscorthy Community College of Further Education, has landed a top accolade as an exceptional hairdressing apprentice at the National Apprenticeship awards.

Leah Carroll Byrne was awarded as an exceptional apprentice for her creativity, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Leah was one of just 14 apprentices awarded on the night from a record number of 222 top apprentices nominated across the island of Ireland.

Her success follows on from recently winning two awards at the Irish Hairdressing Federation Championships.

Leah works in Vanilla Hair Design in Tullow, County Carlow, honing her exceptional skills as a hairdressing apprentice.

She is set to graduate next year from Enniscorthy Community College of Further Education and she is very grateful to the staff there, “Thank you so much for the continued support from ECCFE Hairdressing, I will forever be grateful for all of your advice.” n

Leah Carroll Byrne wins highly-coveted ‘Apprentice of the Year’ category award for Hairdressing at the 2023 National Apprenticeship awards. L-R: Pat O’Doherty, NAA Chair, hairdressing category award winner Leah Carroll Byrne and NAO Director Mary Liz Trant.

An Taoiseach to visit Enniscorthy Enniscorthy & District Chamber of Commerce will be holding a chamber luncheon in the Riverside Park Hotel on Thursday, November 9th, at 1pm where the guest speaker will be An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD. The luncheon is open to all Chamber members wishing to attend but as capacity of the Seamus Rafter Suite is limited to 140 people, tickets are being allocated on a first come, first served basis.

As this is the first occasion a Taoiseach has agreed to address the Chamber, demand for tickets is expected to exceed supply so, in order to avoid disappointment, it is advised to reserve your seat early by making contact with the Chamber Office.

Tickets, if still available, cost €38 each and can be booked by contacting the Chamber on 053 9232006 or by email: admin@enniscorthychamber.ie n

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An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD chats with Enniscorthy TD Paul Kehoe.

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Enniscorthy: Driving progress in sustainability

A new research project focusing on how sustainable and shared transport options could assist in reducing emissions and supporting community development is being launched in Enniscorthy.

Led by Prof. Niamh Moore-Cherry of UCD and Prof. Brian Caulfield of Trinity College Dublin, the aim of CONUNDRUM (Co-Creating sustainable and shared community mobility) is to empower communities to adopt more sustainable modes of mobility by demonstrating how shared low-carbon transportation can plug the gap when high-frequency public transport might not be available. CONUNDRUM is one of several projects funded by Science Foundation Ireland's Sustainable Communities Challenge. The project's first phase runs for 18 months from Septem-

ber 2023, with the potential for further funding.

The CONUNDRUM project builds on the recent findings of the People's Transition for Enniscorthy report, launched by Kieran Harrahill of TASC, the think tank for action on social change. Enniscorthy was the first community to participate in the People's Transition initiative, a nationwide project supported by AIB which aims to identify climate actions that can address community needs. Following input from 140 community members about what they appreciate most about Enniscorthy and challenges facing the town, the impact of limited public transport options within the town for accessing employment and services both in and outside Enniscorthy was highlighted. The CONUNDRUM project will use Enniscorthy as a case study location for under-

standing gaps in the availability of transport and identifying technological solutions that could help promote sustainable and shared mobility.

To mark the launch of this project, a community engagement event will be hosted in GreenTechHQ in Enniscorthy’s new Technology Park, on Monday the 13th of November at 7pm. Community members are invited to speak about the current transport options in Enniscorthy, the impacts this has on their day-to-day lives, and what suggestions they have for improving transport in Enniscorthy. The researchers leading the project look forward to learning more about transport options in Enniscorthy and how the town could become a model for communities across Ireland in adopting shared and sustainable mobility options that support new developments in the town. n

Wexford Festival Opera Antiques Fair in the Talbot Hotel Below: The Wall family, long time exhibitors at the Fair, with two customers. L-R: Noeleen, Sonny and Bridget Wall, with Bridget Bolger and Mary Casserly. Right: Two Limerick men – Joe Sheehan and Bob Quilty, formerly of Limerick, now Mayglass.

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Tribute to ‘heart of gold’ Eileen A BBQ for late Eileen Doyle raises over €7,000 for cancer charities.

Their smiles hid the sadness among more than 250 people who gathered recently at Askamore Community Centre in north County Wexford to honour and pay tribute to their old friend Eileen Doyle who died from cancer in June.

The event, a barbeque at the centre, was a spontaneous response by old Macra na Feirme colleagues to her death of two months earlier.

“She was genuine, the nicest person, kind-hearted, generous, gentle, a good listener, never complained, a heart of gold and she had a huge impact on everyone she met. She will be sorely missed, but we will always keep our memory of her alive. We’ve all been touched and honoured to have known her over the years. Death leaves a heartache that no one can heal and love leaves memories that no one can steal.”

That was the description of her by her old friend Geraldine, also named Doyle, speaking to the attendance.

Geraldine, née Murphy, a native of Broadway, armed with albums of newspaper cuttings from the ‘70s and ‘80s, told the attendance of Eileen’s work for

Eileen Doyle née Graham, R.I.P. the community and parish, how she became Miss Macra and how in 1985, she won the first Macra na Feirme National Leadership award.

She told how Eileen calmly handled dilemmas in the Macra na Feirme national conference and rally in Wexford town, attended by more than a thousand young people from all over Ireland, how she was co-editor with Bee McDonald and Liz Cashin of the bestseller book, The Macra Story, and how she walked the Holy Land with Donncha Ó Dúlaing, the RTÉ broadcasting legend, having

Eileen as Miss Macra back in the 1980s. helped raise IR£2,500 then for the Irish Wheelchair Association.

“Young people wouldn’t believe it, but that was a time when there were no emails and no mobile phones and yet we organised field days, public speaking, artistry, comedy shows, table quizzes, treasure hunts, sports challenges on the beach, debating, lectures, conferences and lots more. Innocent times,” said Geraldine.

Eileen Doyle of Ballyoughter, known everywhere by her maiden name of Eileen Graham, was county Wexford secre-

Le raise

Photographs: Edel Gahan and Aileen Lyons.

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SLANEy NEwS tary of Macra na Feirme, a former treasurer and secretary of Gorey Agricultural Show and a sergeant and ultimately lieutenant in the Red Cross.

A small Macra WhatsApp group of which Geraldine Doyle was secretary hoped to raise €1,000 for cancer charities but the attendance at Askamore Community Centre dug deep and, far exceeding their expectations, they raised more than €7,000 on the night.

Eileen’s mother Mary Graham, her husband Michael Doyle of Craanford, where Eileen and he ran the local shop, were there.

Their children are Lorraine, a nurse in the Mater cancer unit, Aodhán and Marie, and granddaughter Grace.

George, a master sheep shearer, holder of three sheep shearing records, one in which he set a record of shearing 483 sheep in nine hours, has represented Ireland nine times in world championships.

He is an advocate for mental health awareness.

The funds raised at Askamore totalled €7,190. The organisers divided it 50/50, and at a presentation attended by more than 40 people in nearby Craanford Hall, Sean Byrne, chairman, gave half to rep-

resentatives of St Vincent’s Foundation and half to North Wexford Hospice.

The commemoration group for Eileen Graham, chaired by Sean Byrne of Askamore, included Geraldine Doyle, Noel Kinsella of Effernogue, James Byrne of Brookhill, Ballyhogue, Elma Hughes, Ger Lyons, Patrick Hipwell, Tom Doyle and Edel Gahan.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dilis.

– M.F.

Her huge popularity especially in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s for her work in the Camolin branch of Macra na Feirme, later as a county Wexford secretary and public relations officer and in the Red Cross and Gorey Agricultural Show, made her a household name with hundreds of farm and rural community people across the south-east and at national level.

At 19, she was county secretary of Wexford Macra na Feirme. Her colleagues there included Michael Doyle, later a broadcaster with South East Radio, Willie Gleeson, later national president of Macra na Feirme, Tom Doyle, Geraldine Murphy-Doyle, Margaret Doyle, Davy Morris, Ger Lyons, John Fitzgerald, Ben Doyle and Joe Byrne.

Sean Breen, Mary and Pat Murray, Jim Kavanagh, Sadie and Aidan Doyle.

She was a member of a prominent north Wexford farming family. Her brother

Above: Mary Connolly, Olive and Roy Furney, and Mick Kehoe.

Below: Liz Dunne, Vivienne Byrne, Mary Healy, and Brenda Doyle nee Mahon.

eft: At a presentation in Craanford Hall, the funds ed totalling €7,190 were divided by the organisers equally between St Vincent’s Foundation and North Wexford Hospice. bove: Sarah Byrne, Sarah Kavanagh, Kyle Slater, Michael Fortune.

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Frederick Douglass Civil Rights Festival Wexford Page 56 - 4th November 2023

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Enniscorthy Castle goes GREEN for Mental Health Day

Mental Health campaigner Patrick Hipwell in conjunction with Enniscorthy Castle Manager Mico Hassett and her staff were happy to shine a light last month on Mental Health Day as Enniscorthy Castle illuminated green in support of the See Change Green Ribbon Campaign.

Local campaigner Patrick Hipwell has been organising the event for the past number of years to create awareness of mental health difficulties and to help break the stigma around mental health and mental health issues.

Patrick was joined at the Castle by Nicola Byrne, CEO of Shine, and George

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Graham of Awareness Head to Toe along with Minister James Browne and the message from each was ‘a problem shared is a problem halved, don’t be afraid to say that you are not ok.’

The Ballindaggin Pipe Band and singer Stacey Breen provided entertainment for the large crowd gathered at the Castle for the light up and Enniscorthy Hockey Club and Enniscorthy Boxing Club were there to provide support and to show how sport, physical activity, and being part of a team or group can help to alleviate depression, loneliness, and isolation, potential contributory factors to mental health issues.

‘It is ok, not to be ok’ is the key element in tackling mental health difficulties, no one expects you to be ok all the time, no one can be, it isn’t normal or natural, so don’t be afraid to admit it and seek help when you need it, it’s all around you in your family, in your friends, in your community, in your local GAA Club, soccer club, rugby club, drama group, wherever people are gathered there is help to be found, all you have to do is ask for it,’ CEO Nicola Byrne reiterated before thanking and applauding Patrick Hipwell for all the work he is doing to bring mental health issues out of the darkness into the light.

– MARIA NOLAN

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New college for Wexford town Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD officially opened the Wexford College of Further Education and Training (FET) in Wexford town on 5th October 2023.

This college is a state of the art facility which will offer huge educational and training opportunities for learners in Wexford.

Speaking in Wexford, Minister Harris said: “In every corner of this country education and training opportunities have to be available. What we are doing today is investing in students in Wexford and their learning experience.

“FET facilities, like the one we are in today, are an investment in the future of the many learners that will directly benefit.

“I’m delighted that this facility will provide for over 300 learners this year and all future learners, who will no doubt thrive in this new environment.”

Wexford College of Further Education and Training is a top-class learning facility for all, which will facilitate a seamless pathway for learners. The opening of the college will provide full-time and part-time provision for over 300 learners across a range of further education and training provision. The facility will be used to deliver a wide and diverse breadth of programmes from electrical apprenticeships to PLC courses in reception and customer care to a part-time BTEI course in healthcare.

L-R: Kevin Lewis, Chief Executive, WWETB, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD, Minister James Browne TD, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy.

It represents an investment of over €11 million from the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

Kevin Lewis, Chief Executive, WWETB, said: “The Wexford College of Further Education and Training is designed to provide a first class training environment for learners, it will also help support industry by providing a sustainable stream of skilled, professionally qualified long-term employees for the region.” n

Petition for improved bus service Enniscorthy woman Dorn Simon has started a petition seeking an improved bus service from Wexford town to Enniuscorthy, in particular a service leaving Wexford town at 11.30pm nightly.

Dawn explains the problem, “Currently Wexford Bus and Bus Eireann stop bus services at 8.30pm and 9.30pm – the next service is not until 1.30am provided by Wexford Bus and is normally already pre-booked full.

“Residents in Enniscorthy cannot now go to an evening showing in the nearest cinema, in Wexford Town, unless they have a car, or €50 for a taxi, or wait until 1.30am with pre-booking advised.

“Anyone who needs to work or attend events in Wexford town that end at 10pm are left stranded to sit in an eatery or pub or have to pay to grab a taxi. The need for a 11.30pm bus service is paramount. Even if it is a short service providing a 11.30pm route between Wexford town as far as Ferns. Even a new local link, late bus between Enniscorthy and Wexford town would suffice.

“I am certain I am not alone in that not all own cars, have friends/families willing to taxi them, or have surplus funds for actual taxis.

“When the cinema starts at 9pm and the last bus is 9.30pm it leaves many isolated or at risk. Even the Wexford Arts Centre events end earlier than pub closing, leaving folks in the same situation.

“I hereby request signatures for this petition. We NEED a 11.30pm Bus Service.”

People can sign Dorn’s petition at: https://www.change.org/p/asking-wexford-bus-to-add-a-2330pm-service n

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Wexford Pride’s bumper year Wexford Pride has announced details of its upcoming 2023 AGM following a bumper year of events, collaborations, and outreach.

Wexford Pride is a voluntary community organisation led by and for the LGBTQIA+ community. It works to support, advocate for and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and the diversity of experiences, identities and cultures that comprise it.

Wexford Pride will hold its 2023 Annual General Meeting on Thursday, November 16, from 7–9pm at Clayton Whites Hotel in Wexford Town.

Wexford Pride has continued to grow in the past year. The Pride in The Park celebration in Min Ryan Park had its largest turnout to date.

Wexford Pride has also continued to advocate for the social equality and rights of the marginalised members of the LGBTQIA+ community. The Soapbox event in June gave an opportunity for Wexford’s LGBTQIA+ community to speak on the Quay Front. The group also collaborated with other grassroots organisations on a regional and national level, including lending support to the Traveller & Roma LGBT+ Action Group at Dublin Pride, participating in Neuro Pride 2023, and fighting for a more just Transgender Healthcare system with other organisations in the Transgress the NGS Campaign.

The organisation also continues to facilitate a fortnightly confidential LGBTQIA+ Peer Support group in the IFA Centre in Enniscorthy and a fortnightly Tea on The Quay in Wexford Town.

This year also saw Wexford Pride publish Aiteach, Co. Wexford’s first and only queer culture ‘zine, featuring contributions from across the LGBTQIA+ community. There’s the option to read the online version or pick up a physical copy at Red Books in Wexford or Gorey, Mountain Gremlin Games in Castlebridge, or from one of the committee members.

In June, the Online Book Club started, meeting monthly to discuss a new LGBTQIA+ book.

In September, Wexford Pride launched three new recurring events in response to needs identified within the community. This includes an Online Ace/Aro Peer Support Group catering to asexual and aromantic individuals at a national level. In addition, the monthly Board Game Night and Art Club began, both held at Mountain Gremlin Games in Castlebridge.

Wexford Pride is also looking forward to holding its second annual Queer Winter Market on Sunday, December 3, in St Joseph’s Community Centre in Wexford Town.

Page 60 - 4th November 2023

Rían Browne, Public Relations Officer (he/him), says, “When we look at what started as a small community picnic in 2019 and then at Wexford Pride today, we can see the strength of community building, the courage in refusing to give in to fear, and the importance of remaining visible for those who cannot yet step forward. We’re constantly working to build a community that is sustainable and breaks down barriers to include those who are often not represented due to their intersecting marginalised identities. We’re a small committee and we do not receive formal funding. We do this because we believe in the power of building ties and supporting each other. At whatever point a person is at in their LGBTQIA+ journey and regardless of their other identities, there is a place for them here.”

The 2023 Annual General Meeting is an opportunity for the committee members to provide a review of Wexford Pride's activities over the past year, make amendments to the organisation's constitution, gain feedback from its community, and elect a new committee for 2024.

Four Core Committee roles will be up for election: Treasurer, Community Liaison, Public Relations Officer, and Secretary. There are also three further seats without titles. These were unfilled in 2023 but remain open for election. The responsibility of Chairperson is rotated through the four core committee members during the year. To run for a committee position, send an expression of interest to wexfordpride@gmail.com no later than 5pm on Wednesday November 15. Note that committee members must be of majority age at the time of election.

Rían says, “We are committed to ensuring our events and spaces are inclusive, safe and accessible to all corners of our community including those who are neurodivergent, disabled or members of the BIPOC, Traveller or Roma communities. We are conscious that many LGBQTIA+ spaces are not accessible to or representatives of those most marginalised within our community due to ignorance, prejudice, internalised phobias or racism. We are committed to continuously working to challenge, deconstruct and learn to better inform our spaces and ensure they are reflective of the diversity within our community and that includes encouraging and supporting members from these groups to be represented and included in our decision-making, organising and committee structures.”

Wexford Pride would like to extend its thanks to Clayton Whites Hotel for their generosity in hosting the AGM event.

Further information: wexfordpride@gmail.com Connect via social media @WexfordPride on Facebook and Instagram. n

SLANEy SLANEyADS AD

Comhairle Contae

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

Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to close the roads listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from the amended dates of Monday 20 November to Friday 8 December 2023, to facilitate the installation of underground ducts as part of the Greenlink Interconnector Project.

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to extend the closure of the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Friday 10 November to Friday 24 November 2023, to facilitate installation of underground ducts, joint bays and cabling activities for the new cable route as part of the Greenlink Interconnector Project from Greatisland to Baginbun Beach.

Road Closures:

L4050 at Grange, Kilhile and Coleman, Ballyhack from its junction with the R733 at Rathroe to its junction with the R733 at Grange.

Alternative Route: From Coleman to Arthurstown to Kilhile to Grange via the R733.

Road Closure:

R733-12/13/14, from its junction with the L8077 at Kilmannock to its junction with the L4034 at Grange.

Alternative Route: From Kilmannock to Horeswood to Campile to Grange via the R733, L4035 and the L4034.

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

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

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Alt 75 d’Acht na mBóithre 1993 Dúnadh Sealadach na mBóithre

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Tugtar fógra leis seo go bhfuil cinneadh déanta ag Comhairle Contae Loch Garman na bóithre atá liostaithe thíos a dhúnadh do thrácht feithicle ó na dátaí leasaithe Dé Luain 20 Samhain go dtí Dé hAoine 8 Nollaig 2023, chun suiteáil duchtanna faoi thalamh a éascú mar chuid de Thionscadal Idirnascaire Greenlink.

Wexford County Council has decided to close the roads listed hereunder to vehicular traffic on Saturday 25 November 2022 from 17:00 to 21:00, to facilitate the switching on of Gorey Christmas Lights.

Road Closure 1 Road: Main Street (R772) between its junction with The Avenue and its junction with Rafter Street/ Church Street.

Dúnadh Bóithre:

L4050 ag an nGráinseach, Cill Haighil agus Colmán, Baile Hac óna acomhal leis an R733 ag Ráth Chró go dtí a hacomhal leis an R733 ag an nGráinseach.

Bealach Malartach: Ó Colmán go Baile Artúir go Cill Haighil go dtí an Ghráinseach tríd an R733.

Cuirfear comharthaí ar bhealaí eile. Éascófar rochtain áitiúil.

Alternative Route: From North Parade to Pearse Street to Rafter Street via L1011, L5507 and L5510 (Northbound traffic).

From St. Michael’s Road to Railway Road to The Avenue via L5500 and R741 (Southbound traffic).

Road Closure 2 Road:

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Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to close the roads in New Ross town listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from 14.00 to 20.00 on Saturday 18 November 2023 to facilitate the Christmas lights switch on ceremony.

Road Closures:

Quay Street, North Street, South Street (from its junction with Lower Mary Street to its junction with Marsh Lane), Lower Mary Street (from Quay Street to its junction with Barrack Lane), Charles Street, Michael Street (from its junction with South Street to its junction with Neville Street), Robert Street and Sugar House Lane.

Market Street (L5506) between its junction with Main Street and its junction with Shambles Lane.

Alternative Route: From Wexford Street to Railway Road to The Avenue via L5503, L5500 and R741.

Alternative routes will be signposted. No Vehicular Access will be facilitated.

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

ID

Reference

Tender Description

Closing Date

2547672

73/IT/2023

Replacement Network Switches and Associated Devices – Provision, Installation, and Support

13/11/2023

Alternative Route: From the Quay to Oaklands Roundabout to Kent’s Cross Roundabout to Irishtown to Mountelliott Roundabout to Cherries Road to North Street via R723, R700 and the L4508.

2592802 76/SP/2023

Murphy Floods Site Demolition Works Contract

23/11/2023

2599600 77/FC/2023

Event Management Service Provider for Fleadh Cheoil Na hEireann Wexford Town 2024

16/11/2023

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

2617191 79/ART/2023 Youth Theatre Services and Development Programme

Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

Outside office hours call: 053 919 6000 Register on www.mapalerter.com for free text and email alerts about service disruptions in your locality

22/11/2023

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

4th November 2023 - Page 61

SLANEy AD

Comhairle Contae

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

Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post: Assistant 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 all posts are available from our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie Please note all applications for the above post must be Typed and submitted by Email only to recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie Printed hard copies will NOT be accepted for the above post.

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for this post is: 5.00pm on Thursday 16th November, 2023.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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Tugann Comhairle Contae Loch Garman cuireadh d’iarratasóirí don phost seo a leanas: Pleanálaí Cúnta

4.00pm from Wednesday 8th of November 2023 at Wexford County Council, Planning Department, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

The latest date for the inspection of the above maps is 4.00pm on Friday 8th of December 2023 ROADS:

Parkfield, New Ross, Co. Wexford

Objections to or representations regarding the above proposals may be made in writing to: The County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

The latest date for the receipt of written objections/representations is 4.00pm on Tuesday 2nd of January 2024.

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Declaration of Roads to be Public Roads under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) Wexford County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to consider the making of a declaration that the roads listed hereunder be public roads in accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993.

TIs trí agallamh a dhéanfar gach post a roghnú agus féadfar iarrthóirí a chur ar ghearrliosta bunaithe ar iarratais a chuirtear isteach.

Féadfar painéil a bhunú ónar féidir folúntais amach anseo a líonadh.

Maps showing the roads proposed to be taken in charge may be inspected during office hours, 9.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm from Wednesday 8th of November 2023 at Wexford County Council, Planning Department, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

Tá cáilíochtaí, foirmeacha iarratais agus sonraí breise do gach post ar fáil ónár suíomh Gréasáin ag www.wexfordcoco.ie

The latest date for the inspection of the above maps is 4.00pm on Friday 8th of December 2023

Tabhair faoi deara le do thoil nach mór gach iarratas ar an bpost thuas a chlóscríobh agus a chur isteach trí Ríomhphost amháin chuig recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie

ROADS:

NÍ ghlacfar le cóipeanna crua clóite don phost thuas.

Is é an dáta deiridh chun foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe a fháil don phost seo ná: 5.00 in Déardaoin 16 Samhain, 2023.

Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.

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Declaration of Roads to be Public Roads under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) Wexford County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to consider the making of a declaration that the roads listed hereunder be public roads in accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993.

Maps showing the roads proposed to be taken in charge may be inspected during office hours, 9.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

Page 62 - 4th November 2023

Bellview (Bellevue Drive), Duncannon, New Ross, Co. Wexford

Objections to or representations regarding the above proposals may be made in writing to: The County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

The latest date for the receipt of written objections/representations is 4.00pm on Tuesday 2nd of January 2024.

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Declaration of Roads to be Public Roads under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) Wexford County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to consider the making of a declaration that the roads listed hereunder be public roads in accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993.

Maps showing the roads proposed to be taken in charge may be inspected during office hours, 9.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm from Wednesday 8th of November 2023 at Wexford County Council, Planning Department, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

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

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

Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

The latest date for the inspection of the above maps is 4.00pm on Friday 8th of December 2023.

The latest date for the inspection of the above maps is 4.00pm on Friday 8th of December 2023

ROADS:

ROADS:

Ard an Bhile (Units 1-48), Healysland, New Ross, Co. Wexford

Cluain Aoibhinn, Walsheslough, Rosslare, Co. Wexford.

Objections to or representations regarding the above proposals may be made in writing to: The County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

Objections to or representations regarding the above proposals may be made in writing to: The County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

The latest date for the receipt of written objections/representations is 4.00pm on Tuesday 2nd of January 2024.

The latest date for the receipt of written objections/representations is 4.00pm on Tuesday 2nd of January 2024.

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Declaration of Roads to be Public Roads under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)

Call for Expressions of Interest for the Supply of Social Housing and Development Land

Wexford County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to consider the making of a declaration that the roads listed hereunder be public roads in accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993.

Maps showing the roads proposed to be taken in charge may be inspected during office hours, 9.00 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 4.00 pm from Wednesday 8th of November 2023 at Wexford County Council, Planning Department, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

The latest date for the inspection of the above maps is 4.00pm on Friday 8th of December 2023 ROADS:

Ard Uisce (Units 301-380 inclusive), Whiterock Hill, Wexford.

Objections to or representations regarding the above proposals may be made in writing to: The County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

The latest date for the receipt of written objections/representations is 4.00pm on Tuesday 2nd of January 2024.

Wexford County Council has an ambitious 5 year capital programme under the Housing For All Action Plan. As part of a range of housing solutions, the housing authority is seeking expressions of interest from private developers, building contractors and landowners.

Wexford County Council is seeking expressions of interest from interested parties who are capable of delivering turnkey units within the County or the provision of development land.

Wexford County Council will consider land or units in areas which have an established need. An explanatory document will outline the areas of need across the County.

In particular, Wexford County Council is seeking: •

Turnkey developments. Acquisitions are on a turnkey basis; potential payment is a fixed price lump sum, on completion of a development, within an agreed timeframe.

•

Mixed development schemes where social residential components could be incorporated.

•

Development land, varying from small sites (circa 4-6 units) in rural areas with modest demand to larger sites in urban areas (circa 50-70).

•

Delivery of adapted dwellings to meet the requirements of those with specific needs.

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Declaration of Roads to be Public Roads under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) Wexford County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to consider the making of a declaration that the roads listed hereunder be public roads in accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993.

Maps showing the roads proposed to be taken in charge may be inspected during office hours, 9.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm from Wednesday 8th of November 2023 at Wexford County Council, Planning Department, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

All developments and associated works must be fully compliant with the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government guidelines and standards.

A preliminary proposal via the official application form will need to be submitted along with required documentation.

Application forms must be received by 5pm on Friday 24th November 2023.

Application forms and accompanying explanatory documents should be requested by emailing housingcapital@wexfordcoco.ie or may be downloaded from www.wexfordcoco.ie Wexford County Council is subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2014.

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

4th November 2023 - Page 63

Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle

Above left: Cameron Cloke as Elvis.

Above: Dick Butler as The Big Bopper.

Left: John Barry and John Foley.

Rock ‘N’ Roll to the Rescue The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, October 2023.

Pics by Damian Smullen / Wexford Media Left: Cameron Cloke and Dick Butler.

Below left: John Barry has everything under control.

Below: Leon Malone with Paula Marks.

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Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle

Above: Leon Malone and John Barry.

Above right: Emma Schweizer, Trevor Murphy, Adrienne Murphy, Alan Power and Stephanie Power.

Above: Ann Sylvester Cullen, Paula Marks and Niamh Crowhurst.

Above right: Dick Butler belting it out!

Right: Cameron Cloke, Dick Butler, John Barry and John Foley.

Below: Stephanie McKenna, Ella Barry and Grace Barry.

Below right: John Barry, Cameron Cloke, Dick Butler and Shea Tomkins.

4th November 2023 - Page 65

Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle

Alphi Demp’s album was launched earlier this year to the delight of his fans and to critical acclaim. The Enniscorthy man’s much anticipated debut single ‘Method Actor’ has just been released and can be streamed on all major platforms.

Alphi’s debut single out now

Alphi Demp. Pic: Niall Smith

Alphi Demp has just released his first solo single ‘Method Actor’, featuring No Hassle.

‘Method Actor’ is a study on social media selfhood; inspired by an image of 'soap opera stars watching soap opera stars'.

Alphi says, 'I remember as a kid, I was watching tv (the Den) and they had a clip of a soap opera on their small telly. This image of screen upon screen upon screen stuck with me. Then I started to imagine Eastenders/Corrie and how you never see them watching soap operas.

‘Basically, I wanted to express some parallels I see between the fictionalised world of online persona and how life is presented for the 'other'.

‘It's mostly a bit of a light hearted take on this, but I also feel there's a lot of needless hurt caused by it in people's self image and their self esteem.'

Aphi believes the artwork by Nathaniel Barry is a great reflection of this message – ‘He did a great job in realising this visually with his collage painting.’

Page 66 - 4th November 2023

‘Method Actor’ was expertly recorded and mixed at The Orchard Recording Studio by Brendan Carthy, and is available now on all streaming services.

Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yALGG-Vrzxc

Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle

The famous Rathnure pantomime will be back this Christmas. We will have full details in our December issue and keep an eye also on the Rathnure Pantomime Society Facebook page.

The legendary Tom O'Mahony and Blayne Hosey will be gracing the stage at the Wexford Arts Centre on 16th November at the Purple And Bold Comedy Club – a night not to be missed!!!

Powerful music and storytelling in Oylegate British-Irish composer and multi-instrumentalist Girish Paul will perform a special concert with his virtual orchestra to mark the worldwide release of his new album The Diary of Anne Frank at Oylegate Community Centre, Enniscorthy, on Saturday 11th November 2023 at 8.00pm.

The production has received the full support of the Anne Frank Fonds Foundation in Switzerland that was set up by Anne’s father Otto Frank after World War Two. Known for his spectacular solo concerts that combine theatre, acting, film and music, Girish single-handedly performs the heartwarming music score with several instruments backed up by his famous virtual orchestra that together with dramatic visuals provides a stunning backdrop to the story of Anne Frank between 1942 and 1944.

The powerful storytelling is supported by filmed re-enactments of scenes in Anne’s life by talented Irish actors, from her happy schooldays in Frankfurt to the secret hiding place in Amsterdam as the Nazis closed in.

Don’t miss ‘The Diary of Anne Frank’ on Saturday 11th November at Oylegate Community Centre. Tickets from www.gr8events.ie, tel: 053 9138192. n

4th November 2023 - Page 67

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Celebrating the 50th Anniver 13th Wexford Scout Troop Talbot Hotel, Wexford, 14th October 2023.

Above left: Martin and Breda Conway. Above right: Liam Hore (Scout Leader), Dave Martin (Chief Scout), Jill Pitcher Farrell (Chief Scout of Scouting Ireland), Adrian Tennant (Venturer Leader), Marian O’Leary and Cllr John Hegarty, Mayor of Wexford. Below left: Moya Reilly, Shanagh Barry and Lucy Fahy. Below right: The Guard of Honour assembled to bring in the Mayor and the Chief Scout of Ireland.

Moya Reilly and Paul Freeman.

Page 68 - 4th November 2023

Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle

rsary of the

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the 13th Wexford Scout Troop, Talbot Hotel, Wexford, 14th October 2023.

Above left: Brother and sister, Marian O’Leary and Dave Martin. Above right: Members of the Colour Party dressed in uniform for the occasion.

Below left: Sharon and Mark Healy. Below right: Adam Kavanagh, Aimee Boyle, Laoise and Paul Kavanagh, Laura Kavanagh and Alan Greeman.

Bottom left: Josh, Patricia, John and Ashton Rossiter. Bottom right: Mark Healy, Shane Furlong and Sinead Hore.

4th November 2023 - Page 69

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Wexford Festival Opera launches in style

Wexford Festival Opera opening night, 24th October 2023.

Top left: Randall Shannon, Executive Director WFO, Catherine Martin, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Paul Cleary, Chairman of WFO and Yvonne Mays, WFO Vice Chair. Top right: Paul Cleary, Chairman of WFO, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Cllr John Hegarty, Mayor of Wexford, on Wexford Quays during the fireworks. Above left: Pictured with actor Jonathan Rhys Meyers are Alannah, Nicola and Tim Cummings. Above right: Liam McKenna and Ann Moylan. Below left: Scott Hayes, Ecclesiastical Insurance and Sasha Bratkova.

Below centre: Wexford Festival Opera opening night, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and WFO Artistic Director Rosetta Cucchi. Below right: Scott Hayes, Ecclesiastical Insurance and Peter Hussey. All pics: Patrick Browne.

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Enniscorthy Musical Society news and updates Craft Fairs...

The Enniscorthy Musical Society (EMS) is holding a series of craft fairs and would love to see lots of people attending. The next one in the series is scheduled for 9th December so make a note in your diary now. This is your chance to grab a highquality bargain. Full details in our December issue. EMS also welcomes crafters and small businesses interested in taking part to contact them on 086-8399350.

Happy Days, A New Musical Happy Days, A New Musical is EMS’s show for April 2024. EMS is thrilled to be welcoming back the incomparable Imelda McDonagh as Director, and the musical genius that is Kevin Kennedy as Musical Director! And making his choreography debut is the one and only James Dobbs. With a team of this calibre, EMS will definitely be rockin’ the town of Enniscorthy when the show hits the stage in April next year!

An information night for Happy Days, A New Musical took place on the 19th September, followed by auditions on 1st October.

Enniscorthy Musical Society – Fundraising Fashion Show for upcoming production of "Happy Days - A New Musical".

There are still some roles to be filled, so the society will soon be holding callbacks and further auditions. The cast announcement will follow soon.

Featuring Clothes and accessories from local businesses.

Make sure to follow ‘Enniscorthy Musical Society’ on Facebook for updates. n

Riverside Park Hotel & Leisure Club, Enniscorthy, 23rd November 2023, doors 7.30pm, show 8pm.

Tickets €15 + booking fee from www.gr8events.ie n

4th November 2023 - Page 71

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Halloween at Carraig Briste Ear

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rly Years, Templescoby, Enniscorthy

4th November 2023 - Page 73

Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle

Above L-R: 1. Chloe Brennan and Harpur Murphy. 2. Nicole Buzila and Ivy Dillon. 3. Allie O’Brien, Addie Cliffe and Eve

BREE S

Bree Commun

Above L-R: 1.

Above L-R: 1. Muireann Nic Eochaidh and Caoimhe Doyle. 2. Giving it their all! 3. Witches, ghouls and vampires were just some of the ch

Page 74 - 4th November 2023

Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle

elyn Sludds. 4. Jessie Redmond and Rubi Gracock. 5. Tom Grannell. 6. Holly Murphy, Leanne Sinnott and Delia Buzila.

SCHOOL HALLOWEEN DISCO

nity Centre, 27th October, in aid of school Rackard League jerseys To buy copies of photos on this page, email slaneynews@gmail.com

. Disco Mania as adults and children enjoy the event. 2. Doing the Hokey Pokey. 3. Yvonne and Abaigh Weafer. 4. Doing the Hokey Pokey.

haracters at the Halloween disco. 4. Issy Grannell, Ruth Hussey, Aibhe Murphy, Hannah Carr and Emily Ryan. 5. Colleen and Caroinn Ryan.

4th November 2023 - Page 75

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Edermine Ferry Rowing Club 50th Anniversary Dinner Dance, Riverside Park Hotel, 21st October 2023.

Above 1. Ingrid Frost and J

A special night for Edermine Ferry rowing club was held in the Riverside Park Hotel on Saturday 21st October.

Members from the last 50 years gathered together to celebrate the club's big birthday. The night started off with a welcome from current Chairperson Bernie O’Leary who was very proud to stand before former members and current members. It truly was wonderful to see so many past members in attendance, she might even have persuaded a few to get back in the boats.

After a wonderful meal, we held an awards ceremony and Cllr Cathal Byrne kindly stepped in to assist with handing a Lifetime Achievement award to Nim Dunne who is both a founding member and an honorary member of the club. He was most definitely shocked and delighted to be recognised by the club. Also getting special awards on the night were Fintan and Marie Kinsella who have been stalwarts of the club from its very beginning.

Top left: Afic Emer and Irene Foley.

Above left: Lorna Hogan and Josh Martin.

Left: Mark Delahunty and Rebecca Moran.

Right: Maria Moulds and Majella Moore.

Below left: Bee, Jane, Amy and Martin O’Toole.

Below right: Sean Kavanagh, Olive Bowers, Deirdre Bowers-Kavanagh.

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Joe Carley. 2. Michael Jones and Mairead Curtis. 3. Catherine O’Leary and Terry Doherty. 4. Tina Kavanagh, Treasurer, and Bernie O’Leary, Chairperson.

Some other awards on the night were: Junior female rower, junior male rower, senior female rower, senior male rower, club spirit (non rower), club spirit (rower), most improved senior, most improved junior.

The club was also joined by representatives from the other Slaney rowing clubs, Killurin, Ferrycarrig and St Kearns, and we were delighted to have them celebrate with us. It's safe to say everyone had a very enjoyable time and the music and dancing continued until late. Of course no rowing celebration can be held without a little "Rock the boat" so thank you to DJ John Reilly for getting us all up.

Our next celebration of the 50th anniversary is the production of a memories booklet which we will present on 19th November in conjunction with the Alzheimer Society of Ireland and Sláintecare. More information is available from our Secretary Tina Kavanagh on 087-6301350.

– Tina Kavanagh Above right: Afic Aoife McDonald.

Ben Kelly and Left: Catherine O’Donohoe and Michelle Staff.

Right: Sarah Carley and Moira Grimes.

Below left: Ger, Sarah and Bernie O’Leary.

Below centre: Josh Martin and Jen Kearney.

Below right: Conor Dalton and Aoife Codd.

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Art house films on our doorstep The Picture House (Wexford Film Society) launched the programme for their 2023/24 season on 17th October. The society will screen some of the best in Art House film from all around the world with a couple of classics to savour too.

In a break from tradition, where they would normally start at their base in Wexford Arts Centre, after the opera festival ends, chairman Stephen Eustace announced a new development. “Wexford Festival Opera have invited us into the Opera House”, he explained, “to compliment their theme this year, Women & War.” “To that end, we're starting our season in the Jerome Hynes theatre with the suitably linked French film, You Resemble Me on Thursday, November 2nd at 8:30, while an opera is being performed in the O'Reilly theatre.”

The following Tuesday, the season reverts to normal, back in the Wexford Arts Centre at the regular start time of 8pm with the Belgium Academy Award nominee Close.

Elsewhere in the season, there are Cannes Film Festival prize winners Decision to Leave from South Korea, the Iranian set Holy Spider and Cairo Conspiracy, set in Egypt. There's the Venice Film Festival winner for best film, All the Beauty and the Bloodshed from the US and more Oscar nominees such as Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom from Bhutan and EO from Poland.

The two classics in the line-up are Local Hero, the David Puttnam produced 1983 film, to celebrate its 40th anniversary, and the 1977 forgotten masterpiece Sorcerer in memory of director William Freidkin, who died last August.

Apart from the best in World Cinema, The Picture House also have two of the best Irish films of the past year. Lakelands, directed by Robert Higgins and Patrick McGivney, is about a young Gaelic footballer struggling to come to terms with a career ending injury after an attack on a night out. Rising star Éanna Hardwicke plays the lead role, with Gary Lydon, a Fellow of Wexford Film Society, also starring.

The recipient of this year's Dan O'Herlihy

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Fellowship will be producer John Wallace, who will be along to collect his award on December 5th, when his film LOLA, the other Irish film on the season, will be screened. John Wallace, a native of Duncannon, is co-managing director of Cowtown Pictures, producing films like Rialto, which received its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival in 2019 and the recent Ballywalter starring Seána Kerslake and Patrick Kielty.

The Fellowship is awarded annually by The Picture House to recognise a Wexford person who has distinguished themselves in the world of film and named in honour of Dan O'Herlihy, the Wexford-born, Oscar-

nominated actor.

The society's first Fellow, writer Billy Roche, wrote the screenplay for the Ronan O'Donoghue directed short film Sequah, which was screened at the launch. Produced by Pete McCamley and Aileen Donohoe, the makers were joined on the night by cast members, Michael Way, Stephen Murphy, Pipi Firman and Cillian McCamley.

Memberships for the season (€80 – single/€60 – OAP or Unwaged) can be obtained at the Wexford Arts Centre or before any of The Picture House screenings.

Alternatively, it's €8 per film for nonmembers. n

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All smiles at launch of Wexford Film Society’s 2023/24 season It was a great evening and a huge turnout in the Wexford Arts Centre on 17th October for The Picture House – Wexford Film Society’s official launch of its 2023/24 film season.

Above: Chairman of The Picture House – Wexford Film Society Stephen Eustace (centre) with fellow committee members Sinead McGlinchey and Ryan Kelly.

All pics by Philip and Heather Byrne of Forever Treasured.

I’m looking forward to seeing some great films from world cinema, I’m sure there will be some hidden gems along the way. I’m really looking forward to seeing the classic Sorcerer on the big screen. Also showing is the brilliant Local Hero.

The audience at the event was treated to a short film called Sequah made in the lovely, picturesque Johnstown Castle. Many thanks to Pete McCamley, Aileen Donohoe, Ronan O'Donoghue, Billy Roche and the cast of 'Sequah' for showing us this wonderful short film.

It was nice also to spend some time listening to Billy talk about the making of this short film which has gotten to some finals at film festivals which is a really positive achievement.

The evening was hosted by Stephen Eustace, a top class film critic and also Chairman of the Wexford Film Society.

Above: Elizabeth Whyte, CEO/ Executive Director, Wexford Arts Centre. Right: A warm welcome from Stephen Eustace for movie reviewer Kyle Walsh.

The audience really enjoyed the occasion and it certainly whetted our appetite for more.

If anyone is interested in coming along to join us in the Wexford Arts Centre watching some great films from around the globe, check out The Picture House – Wexford Film Society Facebook page and join up using the contact details at the bottom of the poster on the opposite page. You will not be disappointed.

– Kyle Walsh

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Riverside Park Hotel – lots to look forward to The Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, upcoming events: 9th Nov - Johnny McEvoy, 10th Jan 2024 - The Three Amigos, 1st Feb 2024 - Michael English, 8th Feb 2024 – Dan Mc Cabe, 22nd Feb 2024 – Mike Denver. Tickets from hotel reception or online at www.riversideparkhotel.com/in-house-events Overnight packages also available including tickets and accommodation. n

Opinion You Didn't Ask For Podcast

Tune in to Jamie and Blayne’s podcasts and check out: https://www.facebook.com/OpinionYouDidntAskFor/

Dancing with Declan

What’s On Wexford

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

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.

The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000 The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: (0402) 38529

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

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ENNISCORTHY RETIREMENT ASSOCIATION Enniscorthy Retirement Association’s next monthly meeting will take place on Tuesday 7th November at 2.30pm in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy.

Guest speaker will be Joan from the ALONE organisation. ALONE’s vision is of an Ireland where older people can age happily and securely at home and are strongly connected to their communities.

Upcoming dates include a 2-night trip to Cork city, a coffee morning for dementia in the Astro Active Centre, Enniscorthy, and Christmas lunch in the Riverside Park Hotel.

The Association also organises daily activities which take place every Mon-Thurs.

Further information on the Association can be found on the Enniscorthy Retirement Association Facebook page or by attending the monthly meetings.

New members are welcome to attend the meetings. See ‘Enniscorthy Retirement Association’ Facebook Page or email enniscorthyretirementassociation@outlook.com A new website is under construction, and it is hoped to have it online soon. n

Join a choir in Enniscorthy In Enniscorthy, there are at least three choirs open for new members: Enniscorthy Gospel Choir, the Silvertones and the new singing group based at Templeshannon Community Centre.

Contact details: Enniscorthy Gospel Choir: Facebook: ‘Enniscorthy Gospel Choir’ Silvertones: Danny 087 2465250 or Mary: 089 414 2626 Templeshannon group: 053 9237511 or email: tccctempleshannon@hotmail.com n

ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY Email: enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie Phone: 053 9236055 OPENING HOURS: Monday 10.30am - 5.30pm (closed 1pm to 2pm). Tuesday 10.30am - 5.30pm.

Wednesday 10.30am - 5.30pm. Thursday 10.30am - 8.30pm.

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

Closed Saturday & Mondays of bank holiday weekends. n

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GLADIATOR

Movie Review with Kyle Walsh 

Wexford’s Omniplex Cinema is doing a wonderful job bringing back some classics and showing them on the big screen for a new generation of cinema lovers. For me, personally, it’s great to see these movies that I grew up with, seeing them on the big screen again and this time all the more special as I can now enjoy these films with my daughter. She too is a big movie fan but then again she didn’t lick that up off the ground.

Last night we went to see the classic Gladiator. This film was released in 2000 and it won best picture at the Oscars and rightfully so. It’s directed by Ridley Scott, a fantastic movie maker, who has made many classics in his career. The film stars Russell Crowe as Maximus. Crowe was awesome in this role and he absolutely deserved his Oscar win as best actor in a leading role. Joaquin Phoenix as Commodus puts in a strong performance and you feel nothing but hate towards his character. There is also strong performances across the board with actors such as Connie Nielsen, Richard Harris, and Oliver Reed who unfortunately died while filming this film.

The riveting narrative takes the viewer on an emotional journey, as we witness Maximus fall from grace and subsequent rise as a powerful

Gladiator who rallies to oppress against the tyrannical rule of Commodus.

It’s an epic watch to see Maximus the General who became a slave, the Slave who became a Gladiator, the Gladiator who defied an Empire. This is a truly amazing performance from Crowe as Maximus, effortlessly balancing strength, vulnerability, and unwavering determination.

The film’s visual spectacle is really jaw dropping on every level. The breathtaking Colosseum, the attention to detail recreating ancient Rome, the awe-inspiring gladiatorial battles leave me speechless every time. It’s an amazing feat to see a film maker capture the grandeur, brutality, and elegance of Roman civilisation on the big screen. It’s truly a joy to behold. Also, to bring the whole film together, we are blessed to have such a talented musician in Hanz Zimmer. His music soundtrack for this fillm is one of the very best. It’s like an out-of-body experience.

Turn it on and close your eyes, it’s so beautiful and haunting. It lifts this film to a different level. It’s truly amazing.

Gladiator is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences after all these years. It offers a thrilling yet poignant exploration of love, loss, and the triumph of the human spirit. Ridley Scott’s visionary direction coupled with outstanding performances and a compelling story makes this movie an absolute masterpiece.

It gets a 10/10 from me. n

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The legend that is Johnny McEvoy returns to Enniscorthy The term 'living legend' is sometimes loosely accredited to artists in the music business but when it comes to Johnny McEvoy the term is truly warranted.

Johnny has always been highly acclaimed for the quality of his live concert shows but due to the Covid pandemic and its aftermath, he hasn't toured for the past four years. So when his autumn tour 2023 was announced, it received a huge response from his legion of fans nationwide.

His current live show is called A Nostalgic Evening of 'Song and Story' and features all of Johnny's 'Hit' songs, including Mursheen Durkin, Boston Burglar, Long Before Your Time, Rich Man's Garden, Michael Collins etc, many of these songs penned by Johnny himself.

His songs are hauntingly beautiful and evocative, and always presented with an individuality that is unmistakably his own unique style. One can truthfully say that Johnny McEvoy has been one of the most enduring and talented singer-songwriters in the folk/ballad genre in Ireland over the past 50 years.

His concert performances are second to none and incorporate a brief but relevant story of each song. The lyrical clarity of Johnny's vocals combined with gentle backing from excellent musicians is a joy to listen to and ensures a wonderful and joyful evening of 'Song and Story'. n

Johnny McEvoy.

So book your tickets now for the Riverside Park Hotel, Thursday, November 9th at 8pm. Tickets at hotel reception and Ticketmaster.ie

POLISH THOSE DANCING SHOES AND BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW! On Saturday 11th November, the 6th annual Cycle Against Suicide “Orange Tie Ball” will take place once again in the Ashdown Park Hotel in Gorey. This event will mark the 10th anniversary of Cycle Against Suicide.

Following on from the successes of the 2016 and 2019 Orange Tie Balls, hosts Joe and Catriona Dixon are once again looking forward to welcoming you to the event.

It promises to be a memorable night which will include a drinks reception, 4-course meal, live music, and entertainment.

Book your tickets: https://www.cycleagainstsuicide.com/event/orange-tie-ball-2/

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Over The Water Vintage Club Tractor Run at Ballymurn in a of South East Radiotherapy T 8th October 2023

To buy copies of photos on th email slaneynews@gma

Top left: Martin Moran and Stacey Redmond. Left: Harry, Anne Marie and Rory Doyle. Above left: Stace Sue Cullen and Eamonn Nolan. Above right: Naoise and Ada O’Mahoney and Ellie Murphy. Below left: Lia Jim Doyle and Paddy White. Below right: Daisey Kinsella and Danielle Maher. Bottom left: Liam Horan, Sean Nolan. Bottom centre: Jim Sludds and his JC Midge Car. Bottom right: Oisín Corrigan

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aid Trust

his page, il.com

Left: CJ Murphy and his dog Harry.

Above: James Jordan and Bobby Quinsey.

Above right: Eddie Sinnott.

ey Redmond, am O’Connor, Cathal and n.

Above left: All the way from the USA, a Ford pickup owned by Pat O’Toole and Mick Sludds.

Above right: Martin Sinnott and Jack O’Connor.

Right: Martin, Denis and Marie Moran.

Left: Martin Moran.

Below right: John Flynn and Paddy Buckley.

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‘Lola’ hits the big screen in Enniscorthy A hard-hitting short film by local writer and director Nic Furlong, telling the tough tale of a heroin addict in her 20s and a 17year-old boy who has come into her life to save her, hits the big screen for a special Enniscorthy screening on 4th November!

Enniscorthy’s Dorn Simon is executive producer of the film and she describes Lola as “a beautifully filmed piece of work... with dark themes that evoke the drama that addiction can bring to a person’s life, the risks and incidents that can happen by proxy, along with the ripple effects it can have on those around them, and the subsequent downfalls that ensue.”

Dorn says, “The actors portrayed their parts with dedication and realism, and the cinematography captured the pure essence of the script, with a stylised intro, using drone footage, and making the best of the Wexford locations around the camera. The scenes were set up beautifully and it shows the high standard that director of photography Michael Benson brings to his work.

“The direction was clearly defined throughout

by Nic Furlong, as he had the vision of how this film needed to feel as well as be seen.

“Depicting scenes that are by no means an easy task for the actors or crew, this film was intense in the making, and the end product is a testament to the work of all those involved.“ Full Cast: Ben Kavanagh, Lily Hendrick-Doyle, Breda Hegarty, Jason O’Halloran, Davide Pons, Roy O’Connor, Philip Wright, Saoirse Carty, Dorn Simon.

Crew: Nic Furlong - Writer/Director Michael Benson - Director of Photography Dorn Simon - Executive Producer Michael Duggan - Production Assistant Aoife Reece - Production Assistant Kelly O’Neill - MUA Lauren Kehoe - MUA Katie Keogh - MUA Nikki George - Set Photographer Matt Laws - Music Score JAMM - Soundtrack Prebook your seats now at www.presentationcentre.ie or by calling 053 9233000.

This charity screening is strictly 18+ n

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Left: Nic Furlong, Writer/Director.

Below: On the set for the bath scene.

Right: Lily Hendrick-Doyle.

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at 8pm

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Christmas in Enniscorthy The Family Christmas Show at The Presentation Centre is GOLDILOCKS AND THE 3 BEARS! Centre Stage Theatre Company brings its sparkling version of this classic tale to the Enniscorthy stage on Saturday December 2nd at 2pm.

Grab your tickets to this show at www.presentationcentre.ie or call 053 9233000.

Tickets will go fast so book early! Don't be left with cold porridge!!! n

National Opera House – celebrating 15 years Hard to believe the National Opera House is now 15 years old. On September 5, 2008, it opened its doors to the public with a very special live broadcast of The Late Late Show.

Since then, in excess of two million people from all over Ireland and abroad have experienced the warmth and hospitality that is evident at every event hosted in Ireland's premiere cultural venue.

Read more here: https://rb.gy/lf39o n

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Above left: Marie and Jim Thorpe. Above centre: Cllr John Fleming, Cathaoirleach, Wexford Co. Council, Mary Dagg and Michael O’Connor.

Wexford County Council retired staff social gathering at Wexford County Hall 25th October 2023

Theresa Carley and Stephanie Doyle.

Above left: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy and former Manager Seamus Dooley. Above centre: John Roche, Anne Ringwood, Winnie Doyle and Don Curtin. Above right: Theresa Grant OBE and Eamonn Hore.

Above left: Seamus and Nancy Sheil, Patricia and Tom Sweeney. Above right: Mick Connick, Sheila Lacey, Christine Molloy and Jimmy Howard.

Below left: Retired colleagues. Below right: Dolines Doyle, John O’Grady, Ann Marie Devlin, PJ Murphy, Nuala Finn and Geraldine Broaders.

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Halloween at Killegney

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y Early Years, Clonroche

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Get ready to be outraged!

Get ready for an electrifying night of music as 12 Gauge Outrage take the stage to record their highly anticipated debut live album on Saturday November 18th at The Presentation Arts Centre! This is your chance to make some noise and be included!

Featuring Incredible Support Acts: Dirty Casuals are a trio formed in 2015 through a Done Deal ad about a power saw. The band blends elements of progressive and alternative metal with sprinklings of Armenian folk music. If you like 7 strings and 7/8 you've found the right band.

Absenth are a dynamic, all-female four-piece alternative rock band from Enniscorthy. Comprising a group of fiercely talented 16-17year-olds, they share an unbridled passion for music and a collective mission to electrify audiences with their powerful sound and inspire more female rock bands and artists in Ireland.

BARMP are a loosely-calibrated Noise-Rock/Power-Pop Trio from Wexford. This high-voltage trio carries a rich musical history with twenty years of experience in many acclaimed Irish bands. Now, they unleash their combined sound, blending the raw energy of Noise-Rock with the infectious hooks of PowerPop. Expect an unforgettable night of live music. Gather your friends, bring your energy, and hit record with 12 Gauge Outrage and friends as they record their epic debut live album.

See you at the gig!

Get your tickets now here: https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/8736 39772 n

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Highly recommended A CHRISTMAS EVENING WITH TONY CARTY AND HIS TALENTED TRIO...

Get that warm, cosy and comforting Christmas feeling with Tony Carty and Blackjack as they perform a night of Christmas and Crooning Classics in the beautiful venue of St. Iberius Church on Tuesday 19th December at 8pm.

The evening features the velvet voice of Tony Carty, the wonderful musicians Colette Cleary, Ger Griffin and Philip Kennedy, along with some guest performers.

What a perfect way to enjoy this Christmas season. n

The Slaney Writers group meets in Enniscorthy Library on the second Thursday of every month at 6.30pm. New members are always welcome.

If you are interested please contact Enniscorthy Library on 053 9236055. n

Keep an eye out this December for the Enniscorthy Christmas Market in the Market Square. There was a lot of engagement when expressions of interest were sought last month, so a fun and festive fair is being promised. n

Vibes - Disco Night with DJ Ronan Buggy 1st Dec 2023, 7-10pm.

Wexford Arts Centre, Admission €5, PAs Free Entry.

Disco Night with DJ and VJ Ronan Buggy and guest DJ/VJs. A night for Adults with intellectual disabilities, family and friends.

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FOR INFORMATION ON ALL EVENTS, CLASSES, EXHIBITIONS, ETC: WWW.WEXFORDARTSCENTRE.IE CONTACT THE BOX OFFICE ON 053-9123764

4th November 2023 - Page 95

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St Ibar's/Shelmaliers 6k run/walk

The annual St Ibar’s/Shelmaliers 6k Run/Walk supporting the Camogie Club and Cottage Autism Network Wexford, 22nd October 2023, in Shelmaliers GAA Club.

Above left: Liz O’Connor and Edel Devereux.

Above centre: Bevin Morris and Lily Reck.

Above right: Aisling Fortune and Marie Kavanagh.

Left: Alisha Corrigan, Rhona and Faye Kelly.

Below left: Colin, Conor and Emily Redmond.

Below: From Autism Network, Pauline Devereux and Katie Nolan.

Bottom left: Lily and Chloe Reck.

Bottom centre: Deborah and Isabelle Kavanagh.

Bottom right: Kate Kelly and Aria Gordon.

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Chris Currid to direct Enniscorthy Drama Group’s ‘The Hostage’ Celebrating the centenary of his birth, Enniscorthy Drama Group (EDG) is excited for its next production, The Hostage, by the great Irish author, Brendan Behan. The multi-talented singer, director, actor Chris Currid is the exciting choice as director for this ambitious production.

The Hostage, which is considered to be the legendary Behan's masterwork, is a tragi-comedy set in late 1950s Dublin in a lodging-house-cum-house-of-ill-repute.

It is here a young English soldier is held hostage by the Irish Republican Army in a bid for the release of one of their own men who is facing execution in Belfast.

His time here proves eventful as he encounters an array of peculiar, off beat and somewhat unorthodox characters who have made this odd house their home.

Not just a story of the tyranny of Irish history and warfare, this play explores religion, politics and social conditions. Tragedy is offset with an abundance of comedy and quick wit, satire and parody, debate and, at times, borderline fantasy, all with a wonderful and extensive musical score to boot with songs penned by Brendan Behan and also impromptu dancing! A play that has something for everyone!

EDG is delighted to be staging this three-act play later this winter. This is a large production and will mark ten years of performing plays as EDG. The cast size is large with a vast age range included.

Enniscorthy Drama Group is delighted to have the very talented Chris Currid on board as director for the upcoming production.

Chris Currid, director

Chris trained as an actor with Bull Alley Theatre and as a vocal coach with Voice College London, where he graduated with distinction (H.Dip. in Contemporary Singing Teaching).

Chris has vast directorial experience in the world of performing arts having directed many plays and musicals for an array of drama groups, musical societies and secondary schools around the country.

Chris is the proud co-owner of Currid School of Performing Arts in Courtown and is one of the most in-demand vocal coaches in the south east of Ireland. He also teaches singing and acting through song at third level.

EDG says, “We are beyond thrilled to welcome Chris to Enniscorthy Drama Group and to have him on board for this very special and exciting venture.”

For more about Chris, check out his Fcaebook pages: ‘Chris Currid Actor/Singer/Teacher’ ‘Currid School of Performing Arts’ To keep up to date with Enniscorthy Drama Group, see their Facebook page: ‘Enniscorthy Drama Group’ The play will be staged late January / early February 2024. n

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Great drama to look forward to in Enniscorthy Fintan Kelly

Enniscorthy Theatre Company, founded by actor and director Fintan Kelly, is a new professional and amateur theatre company based in the town which has recently finished a highly successful run of Playboy of the Western World at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, followed up by a hugely impressive production of Mask (see page opposite).

Not content to rest on its laurels, the company is well advanced with plans for its next show – Bouncers and Shakers, two brilliantly written (by John Godber and Jane Thornton) one-act plays performed back to back, set in the 1980s, the auditions for which took place last month.

In Bouncers, the four male characters Ralf, Judd, Les and Lucky Eric take the audience on a journey as they portray the lives of the varied customers that frequent the nightclub they guard with overzealous authority! The director is Fergal Kelly and the cast is Niall Holohan, Pat Murphy, Jer Ennis and Murt Murphy.

Shakers’ four characters are Nicki, Mel, Carol and Adele who work in the trendy cocktail bar ‘Shakers’, and again introduce us to the people who frequent the bar. The directors are Paul O’Reilly and Nikki Cogley and the cast is Lily Nolan, Leona Eustace Breen, Christine Quin and Julie Fox. The eight chosen actors play a variety of roles in these fastmoving comedies, employing physical and vocal humour to play their multiple roles, giving a glimpse into the lives of dozens of different characters.

Save the Dates: November 24th & 25th and December 1st & 2nd Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy Keep up to date on: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095632982352 n

Fintan Kelly is delighted that he and Paul O’Reilly are collaborating once again this winter and are bringing back last year’s highly successful Creative Acting for Theatre Course.

This course is aimed at adults and teens. It will run over ten weeks on The Presentation Centre stage starting on November 6th, 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 these five weeks and Paul will take these characters that each individual has created and write a play over the Christmas period that will contain each of these characters.

Fintan, as director, and the actors will then rehearse this play after Chrismas starting on January 8th for five weeks and will put it on at the end of the course for a public run.

This course is open to all levels of acting, from beginners to seasoned theatre actors. The course, says Fintan, “will satisfy creative curiosities and leave you with a character that you have created yourself in an original piece of writing”.

What to Expect:  Gain insight into the various acting techniques used by professional actors worldwide.  Discover the art of character development and storytelling.  Enhance your communication skills, on and off the stage.  Connect with a supportive and creative community of fellow actors.  Develop a deep appreciation for the magic of theatre.

Contact Fintan through his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/fintan.kelly.167 or call on 087 6756993. n

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The man behind the mask

Enniscorthy actor/director/writer Fintan Kelly delivered a stunning performance last month in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, in Paul O’Reilly’s new dark tale of self-discovery Mask.

Beautifully lit by Cian Redmond and subtly directed by Paul Walsh, it featured an atmospheric soundtrack which added hugely to the production.

The talented crew included Pat Murphy (stage and props), Joan O’Ruairc (make-up), Nikki Cogley (stage manager), Billy Stafford and Naoise O’Connor (backstage).

Photos above and below right: @ n_smith_photo

Written by Enniscorthy’s Paul O’Reilly, Mask revolves around Buster the Clown, the lead funny man of a travelling circus, who, after decades away from his home town, comes back to the house where he born and reared to face the ghosts of his past and finally figure out who's the man behind the ‘Mask’.

Played by the supremely talented Fintan Kelly in a oneman performance lasting almost 90 minutes, this was a tour de force which will live long in the memory of all who were lucky enough to witness it. n

Above: Joan O'Ruairc making sure Fintan Kelly is looking the part for MASK, a theatrical tale which ran for three nights at The Presentation Arts Centre last month. Pic: Conor Gibson.

Paul O’Reilly

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Creative Writing Workshops with Billy Roche Billy Roche

‘Remembering Enniscorthy 50 Years Ago’, Enniscorthy Library, December 5th & 12th, January 16th & 23rd.

These workshops are free but must be booked. Tel: 053 9236055 or online at https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/ 4113313 Funded and supported by Wexford County Council in partnership with CreativeIrl. Presented by Festival in a Van in association with Wexford Arts Centre, The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy Library, and Coláiste Bríde. n

Lots on at Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely Pic: Terence White.

Enniscorthy Library Adult Book Club This club meets on the third Thursday of the month and is free to join. Book clubs are a great way to meet others and discuss books.

Next meeting is on Thursday 16th November at 7pm.

For a complete listing of upcoming music, drama, comedy, film, art, etc, see: https://www.courthousearts.ie/whats-on n

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If you would like more information or to join, contact Enniscorthy library on 053 9236055. All are welcome. n

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On Such As We Decadent Theatre Company, in association with the National Opera House Wexford, brings this classic and rarely staged Billy Roche play to life. On Such As We is a heartwarming Christmas play from the author of The Wexford Trilogy and Cavalcaders which will preview on 24 and 25 November, officially opening on 27 November in Wexford for a strictly limited run of 8 performances only.

Oweney’s barbershop and the rooms to let above it offer refuge to a host of lonely hearts: a recently laid off hotel night porter, an angry young artist, a troubled orphan girl, a wounded old widower, a likely bruiser and the beautiful Maeve. All of them in their own various ways fall under Oweney’s loving spell.

The last professional production of this play was in 2001.

The production has an award-winning creative team including Director Andrew Flynn, Set and Lighting Design by Ciaran Bagnall, Sound Design

by Fiona Sheil and Costumes by Sara Ben Abdallah. Decadent Theatre Company has assembled a quality cast of some of Ireland's best acting talent including: Garrett Lombard, Maeve Fitzgerald, Daniel Reardon, Patrick Ryan, Ruairi Heading, Honi Cooke and Tadhg Snodgrass.

The production will run for 8 performances only at Jerome Hynes Theatre, National Opera House, Wexford from Friday 24 November to Saturday 2 December at 8pm.

Booking Online: www.nationaloperahouse.ie or Phone: 053 912 2144. n

Decadent Theatre Company presents ‘On Such As We’

by Billy Roche, directed by Andrew Flynn, 24 November 2 December, Jerome Hynes Theatre, National Opera House, Wexford.

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Folk songs... written in anger and in sorrow... songs about injustice and change... songs about people...

PORT featuring SJ McArdle in association with Droichead Arts Centre.

The show will take place at Wexford Arts Centre on Saturday 18th November at 8pm.

PORT is a new song cycle from contemporary Drogheda folk artist SJ McArdle, full of timeless, indelible folk songs – work songs, story songs, love songs to the sea. Songs written in anger and written in sorrow. Songs about injustice and change. Songs about people.

Born of a year-long research and writing project around the history and stories of Drogheda’s ancient Port, conducted during SJ’s tenure as Artist in Association at Droichead Arts Centre in 2019.

Along with its accompanying critically-acclaimed RTÉ Radio 1 Album of the Week Old Ghosts In The Water, PORT features Carol Keogh (Plague Monkeys), Graham Henderson (Moving Hearts, Sinead O’Connor) and Trevor Hutchinson (Lúnasa, The Waterboys) along with vocalist John Ruddy and fiddle player Barry Kieran (Kern).

SJ was previously the songwriter and singer in award-winning Irish folk band Kern from 2013 to 2020 and he is also known for his career as a singer-songwriter in Nashville and Germany, which produced 2014’s critically-acclaimed Blood and Bones album (featuring Rodney Crowell). He is also in trad trio Long Woman’s Grave with Nuala Kennedy and Trevor Hutchinson.

SJ’s songs and performances have been featured in radio, film and television and he has toured and recorded extensively in Ireland, Europe and North America, gathering a loyal following and critical accolades along the way.

PORT: Wexford Arts Centre, Saturday 18th November at 8pm. sjmcardle.ie n

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Praise for SJ McArdle and the songs of PORT and Old Ghosts: “An impressive song cycle ... the songs are intriguing and evocative; they are rooted in folk but coloured by expansive and imaginative arrangements.”

– The Irish Times "What a great, great collection of songs this is from SJ McArdle. I urge you to go out and get it." – Fiachna Ó Braonáin (The Hothouse Flowers, RTÉ) “All the ingredients of great folk songs” – Lynette Fay (BBC) “SJ McArdle … can’t fail to capture your attention, with a sonorous voice – not unlike Garnet Rogers’s – that can be gritty and gruff yet also unexpectedly tender, even vulnerable. His writing exhibits a similar versatility.” – Sean Smith, Boston Irish “Quite lovely … McArdle’s voice has a breathy gruffness to it that is commanding without being loud, and it sets a strong tone. ‘The Hard Wind’, a McArdle original, is a lively, cutting song about Irish soldiers who returned to Ireland after World War I to acrimony and indifference.” – Daniel Neely, The Irish Echo “Bravo for an artist who has taken contemporary Irish music to parts it far too seldom reaches” – Hot Press n

Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle

Halloween at Kia Ora Mini Farm n

Halloween in Kia Ora Mini Farm, Gorey Top left: A spooky graveyard was no problem for Pvasannoa Vasvnathan.

Top right: Dancing with the skeletons were Megan O’Donohoe, Eaba Lynch and Bobby O’Donohoe.

Above left: Esma and Aimee Reddy.

Above centre: Alan Walsh, Nicola and Shane Cosfer.

Above right: What a slide, Paola Faria.

Left: Pietra, Paola and Oliver Faria.

Below left: Nikau Reddy.

Below right: Robert, Stephanie and Ava Millar.

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A solo exhibition by Patricia Hurl ‘Irish Gothic’ exhibition at Wexford County Council, 16 October – 29 November 2023.

In association with IMMA. Wexford County Council and Wexford Arts Centre in partnership with the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) are pleased to present Irish Gothic by artist Patricia Hurl.

The exhibition, selected from a major retrospective hosted by IMMA earlier this year, presents one of Ireland’s most accomplished artists. Hurl’s work is by its nature political, and traverses the disciplines of painting, multi-media and collaborative art practice. Since the 1970s, she has created work that deals with loss, pain, frustration and loneliness.

The exhibition demonstrates Hurl’s characteristic use of highly expressionistic layered brushstrokes that tend to blur distinctions between the figurative and abstraction. This stylistic blend intensifies the visceral qualities and emotion in Hurl’s work in paintings such as The Company Wife (1986) which comprises a group of men in suits gathered as a jovial unit, juxtaposed with the solitary figure of a seated woman.

Typical of Hurl’s early work, the faces are obscured, and the paint is applied with an urgency that hints at the emotion felt by a woman living in a male-dominated society.

Sketchbooks, diaries, magazines, and newspaper cuttings are central to Hurl’s practice and an integral part of her process, a selection of which is included in the exhibition. The catalyst for the ongoing Warrior series came from media coverage surrounding the treatment of women internationally and closer to home, such as the Belfast rape trial of 2018. Creating helmets as props, Hurl set about producing a series of portraits where her face is partially obscured by the helmet, but the eyes convey a tremendous strength. Hurl portrays women as warriors; mothers, sisters, friends are all affected by horrific acts but often powerless to ease the suffering of loved ones.

Galleries and Studios, Dublin, Patricia Hurl often works in collaboration with artist Therry Rudin. Hurl was a lecturer in Fine Art Painting at the Dublin Institute of Technology and studied at the National College of Art and Design, 1975, and at Dun Laoghaire School of Art and Design, 1984. Hurl previously ran the Damer House Gallery in Co. Tipperary along with Therry Rudin. In 1984, she won the Norah McGuinness award for painting.

Hurl’s work was recently included in The Narrow Gate of the Here and Now: IMMA 30 Years of the Global Contemporary: Queer Embodiment; IMMA, Dublin 2021 – 2022; Elliptical Affinities: Irish Women Artists and the Politics of the Body, 1984 to the present, Highlanes Gallery, Drogheda, Co. Louth, and Limerick City Art Gallery, 2019 – 2020. Hurl has exhibited in selected group and solo shows and has represented Ireland in symposiums in Atlanta, USA, Caversham, S.A., and Zaragossa, Spain.

Venue: Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford, (053) 9196369, email arts@wexfordcoco.ie. co.ie. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 9 n

Originally from Dublin and a former member of Temple Bar Above: Irish Gothic (Living Room), 1985, oil on paper, 123 x 90 x 2cm (framed), IMMA Collection. Below left: Warrior VI, 2022, oil on canvas, 30 x 30cm.

Below right: The Company Wife, 1986, oil on canvas, 124.5 x 186 x 10cm (framed), IMMA Collection.

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‘Meanderings of a Colourful Mind’ ‘Meanderings of a Colourful Mind’ is the title of a painting exhibition by Olivia O’Keeffe, Marja van Kampen and Martina Furlong. The exhibition takes place in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, commencing with the opening night on Saturday 11th November at 6pm. All are welcome to attend.

Author Caroline Busher will open the exhibition. It continues until December 22nd.

This collaboration is touring Ireland, having kickstarted in Wicklow, and after Enniscorthy the exhibition will be heading to Clare, Laois and Cork.

Martina Furlong: To Remain Open, acrylic on canvas.

The theme of the exhibition is ‘The Landscape of the Imagination Through the Exploration of Colour.’

All three artists are pure Colourists with a clear fascination for the relationships between colours. They have a natural ability at creating a certain mood and intensity by optimising the effect of colours through their placement.

These three artists are refreshingly playful in both their paint application, as well as in their imaginative depictions. These landscapes of the imagination emanate a sense of freedom and fun. They have a very distinct and unique style and method of self-expression and yet they harmonise amazingly well together.

Especially for this exhibition, they have created a collaborative artists’ book with themes based on poetry by Olivia. Copies of Olivia’s most recent poetry collection book Celtic Ramblings will also be available on opening night. All in all, this is an exhibition not to be missed.

The artists: Marja Van Kampen is originally from The Netherlands and lives in Enniscorthy. Recent exhibitions include a solo show at the Signal Arts Centre, Bray, and an exhibition of Irish female artists at the Art Museum, Ankara, Turkey. Her work is in the collections of the Arts Council of Ireland, Office of Public Works and Áras an Uachtaráin, the residence of the President of Ireland.

Marja van Kampen: Summer of Joy, acrylic on canvas.

Olivia O’Keeffe is originally from Cork but lives in Houten, The Netherlands and has done so for more than twenty five years, where she runs the Olivia O’Keeffe Gallery and Art Centre. Recent exhibitions include those at Shell Amsterdam as well as solo exhibitions on Sherkin Island, Cork, and at the Red Door Gallery in Newcastle West, Limerick.

Martina Furlong was born in Co. Wexford and returned to live there in 2015 after living in London for sixteen years. Recent exhibitions include a solo show at The Kenny Gallery, Galway, and group shows at Cairde Sligo Arts Festival and Kilkenny Arts Festival.

For more information on this exciting exhibition, contact Marja: marjavankampen@hotmail.com n

Olivia O'Keeffe: Castles in the Sky.

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Wexford Festival Opera Abú The ancient streets of Wexford were humming last weekend to the glorious strains of opera and all that goes with it, as the town turned on the magic and the sparkle that has become associated with the prestigious festival.

From the fairytale Spiegeltent on the quay to the charmed window displays, the exquisite Antique Fair at the Talbot and the captivating and breathtaking art that seemed to emanate from every nook and cranny of this enchanting town during Opera Festival season.

Impossible to see all and with limited time I choose a couple of special friends from the art world to visit.

Michelle O`Neill, world renowned soccer referee, is fast proving herself as a most accomplished artist with her vibrant paintings of the Wexford landscape, particularly her collection of the iconic Hook Head.

Michelle’s exhibition is at Clayton Whites Hotel and she was delighted with the interest her work is generating and how many children were coming with their parents not necessarily to view art but to meet the World Cup referee, ‘Perhaps a grá for art will rub off on them as well,’ Michelle joked as yet another shy child stood waiting for her autograph.

Vibrancy and colour were the order of the day on the first floor with the inspired combination of stained-glass creative designer Pauline Quigley and gifted artist Mary Wallace, whose work

lit up the space, almost bouncing off the walls with vividness, energy, and stunning simplicity.

Pauline, I have known and admired for many years and have been thrilled to see how her craft has progressed, becoming more and more unique and intricate.

Her new collection titled Warrior Women is intriguing and was inspired by Mexican painter Frida Kahlo who is known for her brilliantly coloured self-portraits dealing with themes such as identity, the human body and death.

‘It was my niece who introduced me to Frida Kahlo who always painted herself with an array of flowers and fruits in her hair, telling me that this would lend itself perfectly to my stained glass work, and it was Frida who inspired me to begin a collection of dynamic warrior women like herself’, Pauline explained.

As I admired the three pieces on display – Queen Amina of Nigeria, Frida Kahlo of Mexico, and Nanye’hi a Cherokee Warrior, I had to ask the question about our Irish warrior women and if Pauline had any plans for them.

‘Oh yes, I`m working on that but just didn’t have anything ready in time for the Festival.’

I am looking forward already to seeing what she comes up with.

Mary Wallace is a soft spoken, wonderful artist with an eye for detail and simplicity. Her inspiration comes from everyday

objects which she makes quite extraordinary.

Mary is intrigued by Japanese art and culture, and this is most evident in her work, her imaginative style is abstract and deliciously delicate.

Carmel Fenlon’s Irish Wild Flower Collection inspired by nature is timeless, amazingly beautiful and uplifting.

Working in soft pastels and oil paint, she has created a truly unique series of paintings of wildflowers, capturing their vibrancy and their beauty which have been adapted to an exquisite array of cushion covers and prints that would adorn any home.

Emma Roche’s Emergence Collection at Wexford Arts Centre, knitted acrylic paint on powder-coated steel is unusual, visually impactful and thought provoking.

And once again, one of my favourites for many years Jacinta Crowley Long’s exhibition at the Talbot is so worth a visit.

Jacinta is known as one of Ireland`s foremost contemporary canine and equestrian artists, and indeed has a unique aptitude for capturing the essence and personality of any animal.

I particularly love the captions that go with each painting, my favourite this year is a busy pack of hounds titled Countryside Alliance selling at €2,500, if anyone is interested in buying it for me!

– Words & Pics by Maria Nolan

Left: Maria Nolan with the artist Michelle O’Neill.

Right: The Enniscorthy glass artist Pauline Quigley.

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Carmel Fenlon’s print collection

Emma Roche’s ‘Back Seat’

Maria Nolan with some of Mary Wallace’s beautiful paintings.

An artistic shopfront in

Wexford.

Below: The artist Mary Wallace.

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On the arts trail in Wexford

Wexford Festival Opera Exhibitions, October 2023 Top left: Exhibiting in Whites Hotel, Helen Breslin, Helen McClean, Bernie Doyle and Mary Dwyer. Top right: Gordon and Angela Griffith were at the Jacinta Crowley-Long exhibition in the Talbot Hotel.

Above left: Pauline Quigley, Enniscorthy artist, at her PQ Glass exhibition in Whites Hotel. Above right: Exhibitor Michelle O’Neill with Cllr Leonard Kelly and his son Conan. Left: Mary Dunne, Fr. Jim Nolan PP, and Mary Dunne were at the Irish Architectural Heritage exhibition in the Talbot Hotel. Below left: Patsy Lehane and Michael McDonald were at the Jacinta Crowley-Long exhibition in the Talbot Hotel.

Below right: Wexford Artist Mary Wallace in Whites Hotel showing some of her exhibits to Bernadette Nylan.

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A solo exhibition by Emma Roche Exhibition at the Wexford Arts Centre, 17 October – 25 November 2023.

'Loop' a solo exhibition by Emma Roche, EMERGENCE Award Winner 2021, curated by Catherine Bowe.

Wexford Arts Centre and Wexford County Council Arts Department in partnership with South East Technological University are pleased to present LOOP by Emma Roche, recipient of the 2021 EMERGENCE Visual Art Award.

Emma Roche’s works shift between the figurative and abstract, combining the methodologies of knitting with paint to create layered and textured works. Roche’s preparatory drawings, made quickly and obsessively, are informed by the humdrum of repetitive daily tasks. In contrast, the processes employed by Roche in the knitted paintings are slow and arduous, where long lines of paint are prepared and dried to be used like wool or thread. The ‘should be’ liquid material is forced to behave in a seemingly impossible but measured way. Ideas concerning how we structure and organise time are highlighted through these painted forms as the labour involved in their production is apparent.

For the EMERGENCE Award, Roche produced a new body of large-scale knitted paintings and works on rug canvas.

Considering domestic and occupational interruptions as a starting point, she highlights everyday occurrences that take time away from studio practice. This focus led to experimentation, with an interest in abstraction and a laboratory style of working in the studio.

The artist also worked collaboratively with art students from South East Technological University on a series of experimental painting workshops with a focus on everyday events. An exhibition of work will run in the Dr. Billy Colfer Gallery from Tuesday 17 October to Sunday 5 November featuring work from Anna Bekmansurova, Patricia Cav-

anagh, Anna Cavenagh, Joe Doyle, Alicia Fortune, Susan Birney Gossage, Sadhbh McCarthy McCool, Cody McEvoy, Jane Mouzet, Laura O’Connor and JP Sexton.

Emma Roche lives and works in Wexford. She is a 2023 Artist in Residence at the Sam and Adele Golden Foundation, New York. She is also shortlisted for the John Moore's Painting Prize, Liverpool, 2023. She is the 2021 recipient of the EMERGENCE Visual Art Award, Wexford Arts Centre; Visual Arts, Arts Council Bursary Award, 2021 and 2020, and a Creative Ireland Bursary Award, 2020.

Recent exhibitions include Lined Out, Mermaid Arts Centre, Wicklow (2023); Spiders and Cheerleaders, The Complex, Dublin (2021), Ochre, a two-person show with Ciara Roche, Wexford Arts Centre (2021); and Forward Slash at the LAB Gallery, Dublin (2018). Selected group shows include Generation ‘22, Butler Gallery, Kilkenny (2022); We Are Fetishists, Small Night Zine, Garter Lane, Waterford (2022), Artworks, VISUAL Carlow (2020 and 2019): Women Can’t Paint, Turps Gallery, London (2018); and New Beginnings, Green On Red Gallery, Dublin (2018).

For further information on LOOP or artist Emma Roche contact Catherine Bowe, Curator, Wexford Arts Centre, Cornmarket, Wexford on 053 91 23764 or catherine@wexfordartscentre.ie Gallery hours are Tuesday to Friday from 10am – 5pm and Saturday from 10am – 4pm. During the Wexford Festival Opera (24 October – 5 November) the galleries will open Saturday 28 October from 11am – 5pm, Sunday 29 and Monday 30 October from 11am – 4pm, and Sunday 5 November from 11am – 4pm. n

Above: Red Eye Pink Sky, woven acrylic paint on rug canvas, 24 x 36cm, 2023.

Right: Decision Maker, knitted acrylic paint on wooden panels, 36 x 24cm, 2023.

Both pieces by Emma Roche.

4th November 2023 - Page 109

Slaney Slaney food ad & drink

Going down to the wire at Enni The multi-award-winning Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA), situated at Gort Na Gréine, beside the Enniscorthy Sports Hub, is about local people growing their own food in an organic and sustainable way. But there’s always lots more than that happening on site as Chairman Michael Devereux and the committee continuously strive to make it a state-ofthe-art and fully inclusive amenity and education centre.

Two of its ongoing courses are about food preservation and wire sculpturing, the latter is helping participants learn the skills which will allow them create a large wire sculpture on site which will be a welcome addition and feature for the allotments site.

The food preservation course is being run by expert Jonathan King and the wire sculpture course by renowned artist Imogen Stafford.

To find out more about Enniscorthy Community Allotments: www.enniscorthycommunityallotments.ie Email: enniscorthyallotments@gmail.com www.facebook.com/Enniscorthycommunityallotments n

Top right: Jonathan King running the food preservation course at Enniscorthy Community Allotments surrounded by course participants.

Above left: Wire sculpturing course being run by artist Imogen Stafford, L-R: Joan Fogarty, Sean Fogarty, Dearbhla Moran, Imogen Stafford, Michael Devereux (Chairman, Enniscorthy Community Allotments), Darren Masterson and Annette Moran. Above right: Michael Devereux with Ann Marie Laffan, Sláintecare, Healthy Communities Local Development Officer. Below: Jonathan King with participants on the food preservation course.

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scorthy Community Allotments

Michael Devereux (Chairman, Enniscorthy Community Allotments), making a good start on his practice piece.

Above left: Getting to grips with their wire material were Annette Moran, Mairead Dunne and Dearbhla Moran.

Left: Darren Masterson making it look easy.

Right: Liz Fitzgerald on site with granddaughter Doireann.

Below left: Joan and Sean Fogarty ready to produce a masterpiece.

Below right: Michael Devereux with a gigantic pumpkin on site.

4th November 2023 - Page 111

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ooted in

exford

Mark Cooke invites you to grow along with him.

The Slaney News is delighted to have Enniscorthy man, Mark Cooke, on board with his monthly column. Mark is a member at Enniscorthy Community Allotments, and has a huge passion for growing fruit and veg which he shares on his Instagram platform @rootedinwexford which has over 7,500 followers. Mark describes himself very much as a ‘hobby gardener’ who is not academically trained in horticulture. He started planting with very little knowledge a few years ago and that knowledge has now ‘mushroomed’! Mark loves sharing his passion for growing with readers of the Slaney News.

Mark’s brussels sprouts require staking.

As the autumn leaves fall and November arrives, gardeners have important tasks to complete in their fruit and vegetable patches. In this article, we'll explore key aspects of tending to your garden in this transitional month, focusing on practical advice for future successful harvests as well as future planting.

With the winds picking up, it's essential to provide support for your top-heavy brussels sprouts. These little green orbs can easily topple in strong gusts, so ensure they are securely staked or supported by garden canes. This precaution will maintain their stability, safeguarding your winter supply of this delicious vegetable.

As we step further into November, it's time to wrap up the harvest for most other vegetables. If you haven't already it's time to bid farewell to your remaining tomatoes, peppers, and cucumber. Remove spent plants and add them to your compost pile

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to enrich your soil for next year. Additionally, consider saving seeds from your preferred varieties to use in the next planting season.

cloves, and prepare for colorful blooms by planting spring bulbs. Gardening in this transitional month is essential for reaping the rewards in the coming seasons.

In the month of November, consider sowing broad beans and peas directly into your outdoor garden beds. These cool-weather crops thrive in the late autumn conditions.

To protect your seeds from mice, create a barrier using wire mesh or netting. This simple measure will ensure that your crops remain intact and untouched.

Happy gardening and remember to follow my growing journey on social media platforms, just search up @rootedinwexford. n

Garlic cloves should also find their way into your garden in November. Select a sunny spot and plant the cloves with the pointed end facing upward. Maintain a spacing of approximately 6 inches between each clove, and cover them with mulch to protect against winter temperatures. With patience, you'll be rewarded with plump, flavorful garlic bulbs next summer.

Looking ahead to the vibrant spring, it's time to plant bulbs for those beautiful blossoms. Tulips, daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths can add a burst of color to your garden when the weather warms. Follow the planting instructions provided on the bulb packages for the best results.

In conclusion, November offers a variety of gardening tasks to ensure a successful future harvest and a vibrant spring. Secure your brussels sprouts, complete your harvest, sow cool-weather crops, plant garlic

Mark’s garlic beginning to sprout following planting.

Slaney food & 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

Caitriona Barron

CHILLI GARLIC PRAWNS INGREDIENTS:  2 tbsp Olive Oil  5 Garlic Cloves  1 Red Chilli or a tablespoon of dried Chilli Flakes  12 Prawns  ½ tbsp Smoked Paprika  ¼ tsp Salt  ¼ tsp Pepper  20g Fresh Parsley  ¼ Lemon INSTRUCTIONS:  Finely chop the garlic, the chilli and the parsley.  Heat up the olive oil and gently fry the garlic, stir it so it does not burn.  Add the chilli and stir.  Add the prawns and paprika and stir well.  Stir in the salt and pepper and cook until the prawns are pink throughout.

This should take about 6-8 minutes depending on the size of your prawns.  Sprinkle with the parsley and squeeze the lemon juice over the prawns.  Enjoy hot with some crusty bread. n

Pic: Caitriona Barron. https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted

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Garden fork to kitchen fork County Wexford Public Participation Network (PPN) is inviting all interested parties to a Let’s Grow event covering container growing, how and what to grow at this time of the year, and how to freeze, preserve and cook your harvest.

Experts will be on hand with guidance and advice. So if you’re new to this whole area or have had a few growing disasters (and who hasn't?) go along and learn from the experts and get growing!

You don't need a large garden to grow your own vegetables, learn how to grow in containers and pots and save your excess crop for the future by freezing and preserving to prevent food waste and save money!

The organisers hope to see you on 7th November at 7.30pm in Templeshannon Community Centre, Enniscorthy, and refreshments will be served. Together, let’s grow! n

Knives & forks at the ready!

Tackling our food waste

Get your knives and forks at the ready! Enniscorthy Library has a mouth-watering selection of delicious cookery books.

Check them out. Bon appetit!!! n

Authentic Palestinian food Food waste is a global problem that has environmental, social and economic consequences.

More than one quarter of the food produced globally is wasted. In Ireland, we generate nearly 800,000 tonnes of food waste every year. It is a significant contributor to climate change, as food loss and waste contribute to 8-10% of greenhouse gas emissions. Growing, processing and transporting food all use significant amounts of resources such as land, water and energy.

The average Irish household throws out 150kg of food each year and a significant amount of this food is still suitable for human consumption.

The Irish Government has committed to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030, which is in line with UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Enniscorthy Farmers Market, which takes place every Saturday morning in Abbey Square, Enniscorthy, has a food stall, Al Wadi Falafel, which serves up delicious, authentic Palestinian Falafel every Saturday. n

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Check out: https://www.epa.ie/our-services/monitoring— assessment/circular-economy/food-waste/ https://stopfoodwaste.ie n

Slaney food & drink

Your local Slimming World Consultants in Enniscorthy

Providing you with a huge choice of sessions throughout the week: Tuesdays @ 6.30pm The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop Call Tony on 087 1785384 Wednesdays @ 8.00am, 9.30am, 11.00am, 5.30pm and 7.00pm Enniscorthy Rugby Club – Call Trish on 087 3607615 Thursdays @ 9.30am 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 2023 - Page 115

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National Women’s Enterprise Da

National Women’s Enterprise Day Panel of Speakers L-R: NWED 2023 MC Maryrose Lyons of Brightspark Consulting; Liz Hore, Direc Theresa Grant OBE, Keynote Speaker; Pauline Dunne, Killowen Farm, Wexford NWED Ambassador 2023; Deborah Brock of Councillor Lisa McDonald; Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Wex On Thurs 19th October over 130 female entrepreneurs, women in business and female-led businesses from all over County Wexford gathered in Newbay House Hotel Wexford to celebrate National Women’s Enterprise Day 2023.

A much anticipated event each year, National Women’s Enterprise Day is in its 16th year and is growing in popularity and importance each year, going from strength to strength and attracting both speakers and participants from all business sectors, both Irish and international.

Pauline Dunne, Killowen Farm, President of the Wexford Food Family, and NWED Wexford Ambassador 2023 for Local Enterprise Office Wexford.

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Wexford town-native Theresa Grant OBE led the line up of homegrown and international speakers on the day.

Theresa shared her story of delivering high-value outcomes for communities and local governments across the UK. Generating a positive organisational culture through leadership and teamwork

has led her to be recognised with an OBE from the Queen for her work in 2021. Sharing how she has worked for major sporting events including the Commonwealth Games and the Sydney Olympics, as well as for government bodies, Prime Ministers and parliamentarians made for a compelling and inspirational morning.

Pauline Dunne of Killowen Farm is this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day Ambassador for Wexford and she spoke at the event. An NWED Ambassador is a business person who has come through Local Enterprise Office services and has proven themselves to be an inspirational ambassador, leader and mentor for other female-led businesses and entrepreneurs. Pauline’s story of growing a small, family dairy farm to a major producer of both yogurt and cream cheese, producing 4000 jars of their signature

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ay, Wexford

Wexford native Theresa Grant OBE speaking at National Women’s Enterprise Day 2023 in Wexford’s Newbay House Hotel.

tor of Services at Wexford County Council; Nua Fertility, Speaker and Panellist; xford.

ment by women who are both innovative and strategic in their thinking. “Women are intuitively innovative, adaptable and forward thinking – these are the skills that we need to harness now to secure a strong economy where female entrepre-

neurship is allowed to flourish. Businesses are facing growing energy costs, a shortage of labour and skills, climate change and increasingly uncertain global security, and women are well equipped to deal with these challenges.” n

yogurts per hour, gave inspiration and encouragement to businesses of all sizes in the room.

Deborah Brock of Nua Fertility explained how her business came from personal experience and how both people and science have played such a crucial role in her business journey.

Speaking about taking the leap from employment to entrepreneurship, Deborah highlighted the value of knowing that others have done it and thrived – it is very empowering and reassuring to know that you are not alone when you decide to follow your business dream.

Paying tribute to female entrepreneurs and business-women everywhere, Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise at LEO Wexford, who this year is the joint National Chair for NWED, described the event as a celebration of female entrepreneurship, leadership and empower-

Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at Wexford County Council at National Women’s Enterprise Day in Newbay House.

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Local Enterprise Office Wexford Start bridging the gaps in your Business Knowledge with affordable training programmes this November. View Schedule: https://bit.ly/48iCSnS

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NEW CAMPAIGN ENCOURAGES WEXFORD BUSINESSES TO SAVE TIME, MONEY & ENERGY A new campaign launched by Neale Richmond TD, Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, is encouraging small businesses in County Wexford to avail of supports that will help them save time, money and energy.

The “All In A Day’s Work” campaign by the Local Enterprise Offices is focused on highlighting the supports that will enable small businesses to make significant changes to the way they work that will help them now and in the future. These supports include the Lean, Green and Digital programmes, all of which enable small businesses to become more competitive and productive in how they work.

Figures from the Local Enterprise Offices show that the Lean for Business programme, running since 2015 with Enterprise Ireland, has helped save businesses an average of €34,000 by helping them work more efficiently and improving their processes.

The programme has saved Irish companies over €28million since it began and is free to all small businesses through their Local Enterprise Offices, which are based in the local authorities across the country. The figures also highlighted that the businesses that did avail of these programmes had an average 31% increase in their output or production.

The “All In A Day’s Work” campaign aims to encourage small businesses in County Wexford to link in with their Local Enterprise Office to find out what support is best suited to them at their stage of business and how it can benefit them.

Minster Neale Richmond TD: “While starting a business is an exciting time, without mentorship and advice, it can also be very hectic. Local Enterprise Offices offer both the financial supports and mentorship programmes that help businesses to save time and money by being more efficient. Local Enterprise Offices can have a significant impact on a business; that businesses are saving an average of €34,000 thanks to the Lean for Business programme is a testament to this. Local Enterprise Offices are a fantas-

A new campaign launched by Neale Richmond TD (in centre of above photo), Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, is encouraging small businesses to avail of supports that will help them save time, money and energy.

tic resource, and I would encourage any small business which has not reached out to them yet, to do so today.”

Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at Wexford Co. Council, acknowledges the recent challenges faced by small businesses.

“The ongoing hurdles necessitate a proactive approach, urging businesses to enhance their efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. The tangible results from such improvements are evident in the numbers. This campaign aims to underscore these advantages, motivating small businesses to explore ways to save time, money, and energy. Embracing efficiency and sustainability isn't just a choice; it's an investment that promises positive impacts in the present and future."

The campaign will be running across a range of national media including a new dedicated website www.AllInADaysWork.ie where businesses can hear from Local Enterprise Offices clients that have availed of these supports and the impacts that they have had for them and register their interest in finding out how it can work for them.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council Cllr. John Fleming: “The invaluable Lean,

Green, and Digital supports provided by Local Enterprise Office Wexford have the power to significantly impact businesses, with regards to cost savings and enhanced competitiveness. Recognising the time constraints businesses face, it's often challenging to pause and assess operational strategies for improved efficiency and productivity. This is precisely where the Local Enterprise Office supports play a crucial role. I encourage businesses to engage with their Local Enterprise Office, discover tailored supports, and experience first-hand the positive transformations that can elevate their day-to-day operations."

The Local Enterprise Offices also run several initiatives to foster entrepreneurship across the country. These include Local Enterprise Week, the National Enterprise Awards, the Student Enterprise Programme, National Women’s Enterprise Day and Local Enterprise Showcase. The Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities are funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland.

Local Enterprise Office, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93 Contact: 053 9196023 Email: breege.cosgrave@wexfordcoco.ie

4th November 2023 - Page 119

Slaney buSineSS Slaney ad & finance

Funding pathways & success Wexford County Council is proud to announce, "Making Sustainability Happen: Funding Pathways and Success Stories", a transformative event which will be held in The Street at Wexford County Council on Thursday, 16th November.

This event will focus on inspiring positive change in SMEs across Wexford and the South East Region. This event serves as a beacon for those eager to merge sustainability with actionable strategies, where success stories evolve from inspiration to reality.

About the Event: "Making Sustainability Happen" is a dynamic forum designed to unravel the funding pathways supporting sustainable initiatives and showcase success stories that recognise the impact of collective action. This event promises to be a gem for knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and unlocking the true potential for tangible change.

Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at Wexford Co. Council, emphasised the significance of this unmissable event, stating, 'Attendees will have the invaluable opportunity to hear first hand from local businesses about their journey to sustainable practices. Additionally, the many funding supports that are available for businesses to take the initial steps towards a more sustainable future will be a key focus. This event is a strategic platform for those committed to transformative sustainability, offering practical steps and collaboration opportunities.'

What to Expect: Insightful Sessions: Gain valuable insights on why and how businesses should embrace sustainability.

Success Stories: Hear firsthand from individuals and organisations that have turned sustainability aspirations into achievable outcomes.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals, collaborators, and funding partners committed to making a lasting impact.

Meet Your Event MC: Eanna Ni Lamhna is an esteemed Irish biologist, environmental consultant, radio and television presenter with a profound passion for sustainability.

Page 120 - 4th November 2023

Featured speakers and Panelists: Ankush Shirsath from Enterprise Ireland.

Amanda Timbrell, CEO of the High Performance Building Alliance and Green Cluster co-ordinator for the South East.

Simon Lynch, Wicklow Wolf Brewery: Gain insights into sustainable brewing practices from Simon Lynch, showcasing environmental responsibility in sourcing everything from ingredients to packaging.

Catherine Murphy Brady, Brady’s Coffee.

Catherine will outline the practical steps that Brady’s have taken to incorporate sustainable practices incorporating responsible sourcing and packaging reconfiguration.

Michael Griffin, Griffin Group, is a key figure in the Griffin Hotel Group's sustainability efforts, leading the completion of phase one of a solar farm, offsetting Monart Destination Spa's peak energy demand and advancing the group's commitment to sustainability.

Save the Date: Thursday, 16th November 2023 Time: 09:30 – 13:30 Location: The Street, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford Registration: www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford n

Slaney buSineSS & finance

‘Make ideas happen’

Based in Enniscorthy’s new Technology Park, GreenTechHQ is Ireland’s Sustainability Innovation Hub providing a world-class ecosystem for companies and communities who want access to leading business, innovation, sustainability knowledge and to extend their global connections and business solutions support.

Established in Enniscorthy, in the heart of the southeast region, GreenTechHQ is a home for start-ups, scale-ups and companies with an eye on their sustainable solutions to help climate change. GreenTechHQ supports businesses within its collaborative workspaces through events and programmes, investment, mentoring and support services in thought leadership, communication, innovation, training and incubation.

CEO of GreenTechHQ Ed Murphy says, “We provide access to companies and mentors who’ve done it all before, seen great success, and are willing to help fellow entrepreneurs on their own journey.

We help fledgling businesses get growth and expansion through our support ecosystem. Our mantra… Make ideas happen.”

Ed Murphy, founder and CEO of GreenTechHQ, Enniscorthy Technology Park.

Contact info@greentechhq.com n

Congrats to Cathal Byrne, Solicitor, who recently celebrated two years in business!

Last month marked the second anniversary of the doors opening on his own law firm “Cathal Byrne Solicitor” in Enniscorthy.

Cathal says, “A massive thank you to all my family, friends, supporters and clients for their help, support and engagement over the past two years.

“In that time our team has grown to a team of four... and we look forward to continuing to grow and expand in the months ahead.”

Cathal Byrne practises in the areas of: Wills – Property & Mortgages – Probate – Farming Law – Personal Injury.

He is also a Commissioner for Oaths.

For appointments, telephone 053-9270015 or contact Info@CathalByrneSolicitor.ie

4th November 2023 - Page 121

Slaney SlaneypetS ad

It would be great to see these dog poo bins being used by all dog owners.

South East Animal Rescue South East Animal Rescue has revamped its shop at 27 Court St, Enniscorthy, with lots of bargains now available. The shop is open 10am-3pm Monday to Friday & 10am-1pm on Saturday. n

DON'T RISK IT!

EVERY DOG MUST HAVE A DOG LICENCE An Post have now taken over the National Dog Licence Database

ANNUAL SINGLE DOG LICENCE IS €20 LIFETIME LICENCE IS €140 BOTH LICENCES CAN BE PURCHASED ONLINE AT WWW.LICENCES.IE OR AT ANY POST OFFICE GENERAL DOG LICENCES CAN STILL BE PURCHASED THROUGH WEXFORD COUNTY COUNCIL RECEIPTS OFFICE, CARRICKLAWN, WEXFORD T: 053 919 6000

MAXIMUM FINE €2,500

Page 122 - 4th November 2023

CJ Murphy and his dog Harry at the Over The Water Vintage Club Tractor Run at Ballymurn in aid of South East Radiotherapy Trust, 8th October 2023.

Slaney petS

MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy.

T: (053) 9233187, 9236674.

F: (053) 9236674.

E: moynevet@gmail.com

VET DIARY FOR NOV It’s amazing how time and again in my life what seemed a big challenge or disaster became a blessing in the long run. I was away for a long weekend in the west when my dog Mac, who is climbing up the years a little, had a stroke. It was a few months ago and it looked like it was the beginning of the end.

He was brought into the clinic, put on a drip, bloods run and stabilised. When I got back he was able to recognise me but wasn't good on his balance. We tried various treatments and all in their own way helped his recovery but the one the sticks out in my mind that made the most noticeable improvement was when we took him up to Galway to get a session of acupuncture.

His balance was still very iffy and he couldn't go up or down any steps, stairs or gradients without falling. After the first session of acupuncture (albeit with one of the foremost veterinary acupuncturists in Europe... as luck would have it!) he made it down the steps into the garden the very next morning. I was amazed! I followed up with treatments once or twice a week as advised and he seems to be going from strength to strength.

with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital

It has opened my eyes to a whole new way of treating patients and since that time the same vet has attended here at the Moyne Vet Hospital to treat other animals, horses and dogs with equally impressive results on several of the cases.

Life throws curve balls our way sometimes and we can swerve, duck or run with it. The easy option might have been to call it a day for him but I knew he was looking to keep going so I reckoned I owed it to him to leave no stone unturned.

Yet again this faithful companion has showed me a new way of seeing things and every day is a learning day if you're open to it.

Mac still has a bit to go but the improvement so far has given me the lead to follow this ancient craft a bit further and see if it can be incorporated into the practice in some way.

Learning new skill-sets can be challenging but also rewarding and because it isn't very invasive it seems to have a huge number of benefits for the animals who I must admit seem very amenable to the treatments to date. It’s early days of course but I'm enjoying this journey so far! 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 2023 - Page 123

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

CUPRA LEON Cupra was a badge that adorned many high performance Seat cars over the years like the Ibiza Cupra and the Leon Cupra. But all that changed in 2018, when Cupra became its own standalone brand within the Volkswagen Group.

And it’s been a big success, releasing some great models like the Born and the Formentor, and becoming one of Ireland’s fastest growing car brands along the way.

The Cupra Leon sells in smaller numbers than the Born and Formentor, but Cupra has still managed to sell around 300 of them this year. It goes on sale priced from about €35,310, with the choice of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid engines. That’s competitive against the likes of the Toyota Corolla, Opel Astra, Peugeot 308 and the Ford Focus.

If you thought it looked a lot like a Seat Leon, you’d be right because this is one model that is still shared with the Seat brand. But it’s been beefed up and given the Cupra makeover with sportier bumpers, larger air intakes, large front splitter, dark chrome front grille frame and side skirts. It also wears Cupra's copper trimmed badge in the centre of the grille.

It's a very eye-catching car and attracts plenty of admiring glances.

18-inch alloys come as standard, while high performance VZ models getting 19inch. All in all, it’s a car that looks good parked up beside high spec versions of its rivals.

terial quality is better overall with some nice soft touch panels in the doors and gorgeous seats. The hybrid gets bucket seats as standard, though entry level petrol and diesel models get more basic sport seats. There's the option of those same bucket seats in full leather, blue or black.

The steering wheel stands out with the Cupra logo and the full digital instrument cluster also gets Cupra-specific graphics with a number of different layouts to toggle between from the touch of a button.

There's a lovely strip of ambient lighting around the dash, with the choice of a few

The cabin is very similar in its basic design and layout to the Seat, but it has been 'Cuprified' and all for the better. The ma-

Cupra Leon

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Slaney motoring different colours. A large touchscreen comes as standard with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Wireless smartphone charging is an option but there are a few USB-C ports.

The minimalist cabin means that pretty much everything is controlled from the screen, including the ventilation. It can be a bit fiddly to use on the move, though you get used to it. Other features include heated steering wheel, heated front seats and a reversing camera.

The Cupra Leon is built on the same underpinnings as the latest Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3 for example. It is one of the most spacious hatchbacks of its kind, with generous headroom in the back. Trizone climate control comes as standard.

Petrol and diesel versions have a decent 380 litres of boot space, though the plugin hybrid can only manage 270 litres. But opt for the Sportstourer and that goes up to 470 litres.

There are a range of engines for the Cupra Leon and it gets a few spicier power options than the Seat. The range kicks off with a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with 150hp and the choice of a manual or automatic gearbox. There are similar options for the 2.0-litre diesel, also with 150hp. There's also a 1.4-litre plug-in

Interior hybrid with either 204hp or 245hp. The 12.8kWh battery onboard can be charged in about 3.5 hours at a rate of 3.6kW and driven electric for up to about 60 kilometres.

It’s a really nice hatchback to drive with precise steering and sweet handling. It gets a front differential lock as standard so it handles the tarmac with real skill, turning into corners with lots of grip and precision. Dynamic Chassis Control comes as standard on VZ models, but was added as an option to the test car. It means you can fine tune the steering and suspension damping through a few different settings: Comfort, Sport and Individual. It's comfortable for a sporty hatch and the extra firmness of the Sport mode actually enhances the driving experience. The only annoyance is persistent road noise from the tyres.

With 204hp and an electric motor for a burst of torque, the hybrid is one of the most powerful of the range with 0-100 in 7.5 seconds and 350Nm of torque. It's expensive to buy however and does need to be charged to get the best from it - including efficiency. On an empty battery, it gets thirstier. But if you can charge it regularly and even drive on electric power alone for a limited range, then it can work well.

But otherwise most buyers will be served well enough by the 1.5 petrol.

The Cupra Leon is a brilliant sporty hatchback. It stacks up very well against similar high spec versions of rivals like a Corolla GR Sport, Astra GS, and Focus ST Line. It looks great and is fun and spirited to drive.

It does get quite expensive however, particularly as a plug-in hybrid. However with one of the more basic engines, it's a very good buy indeed.

Model tested: Cupra Leon e-Hybrid Price: €48,145 Engine: 1.4-litre petrol electric plug-in hybrid Power: 204 hp Torque: 350 Nm Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 7.5 seconds Motor Tax: €140 per year n

Chapel Lane, Drumgoold, Enniscorthy, Y21 XH64

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

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 2023 - Page 125

Slaney Slaney motoring ad

Sales team L-R: Walter Winters, Paddy Doyle, Bernard Doyle (Managing Director) and Ross Sutton.

Enniscorthy’s new car dealership MG Motor's New South-East Dealership Arrives in Enniscorthy MG Motor is proud to announce the opening of its newest dealership, Doyle’s MG, Enniscorthy, marking the brand's debut in the South East.

"We are delighted to establish a significant presence in the South East with the launch of our latest dealership," said Gerard Rice, Managing Director at MG Motor. "This expansion showcases our commitment to delivering exceptional driving experiences and a wide range of electric vehicle choices to our valued customers. We look forward to introducing a presence in the South East to the MG brand's legacy of innovation, quality, and affordability – especially with Doyle’s as our dealer partner who have an established reputation and long history looking after customers in this region."

Doyle’s will have responsibility for MG Motor sales and after-sales services for the South East region.

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Bernard Doyle, Director of Doyle’s Garage, said, “We are thrilled to be appointed as the MG Dealer for the South East region and excited about the brand's future in Ireland. Our family have been involved in the motor industry for over 70 years and the transition to EV is one of the biggest changes the industry has seen in our time so we are delighted to be partnering with a brand which is producing a fantastic EV range at an affordable price point for the Irish consumer. We are currently developing a state of the art showroom to showcase the range in Enniscorthy, and look forward to its opening in the coming months. In the meantime, we will be functional from our Courtown branch for all customers to come, see and test drive the MG EV Range.”

The new dealership in Enniscorthy on the

Old Dublin Road opposite the NCT test centre will be a state of the art affair for the MG brand. The premises previously operated as Doyle’s second-hand car branch. A formal launch event for the new dealership will take place once building work and fitting out the premises is completed over the coming weeks.

The arrival of Doyle’s MG on the Old Dublin Road is also a boost for the whole commercial zone there which is now known as the Enniscorthy North Business District and which is the subject of major ongoing works to make it more attractive looking and also more activetravel friendly.

For more information about the new MG Motor dealership in the South East, please visit www.doylesgarage.ie/mg or contact 053 92 35590. n

Slaney motoring

Electrifying event at J Donohoe BMW

County Wexford Chamber hosted a Business After Hours Networking & EV Expo on 12th October in partnership with J Donohoe BMW. The event took place at the J Donohoe BMW showroom in Quarry Park, Enniscorthy. Speakers included Dermot Brennan, Head of Business at J Donohoe BMW, and Paul Nash, commerical director with Carra Group, who spoke to all present about the extended range of new electric vehicles, along with the growing infrastructure of chargers across the whole road network, and how this is eliminating the “range anxiexty” that people would have previously felt.

Caroline Kidd, journalist, founder of the motoring blog Changing Lanes and Slaney News columnist, went back to the first time she drove an electric vehicle and how she sees the market going in the future.

L-R: Paul Nash, Commercial Director at Carra Group, Brendan Crowley, President of County Wexford Chamber and Dermot Brennan, Head of Business at J Donohoe Enniscorthy.

Pic: Patrick Browne.

Guests were invited to take test drives in full electric models like the new BMW i5, i4 and iX3, and learn more about the market outlook for electric vehicles in Ireland, home and public charging, and the benefits of making the switch to electric. n

October new car registrations are down The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) has just released its official 232 new vehicle registrations statistics for October.

New car registrations for the month of October were down 16.8% (2,178) when compared to October 2022 (2,617). Registrations year to date are up 15.6% (120,495) on the same period last year (104,204).

Light Commercial vehicles (LCV) are slightly up 0.14% (1,443) compared to October last year (1,441) and year to date are up 28.6% (28,661). HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations are showing a decrease for October of 28.73% (129) in comparison to October 2022 (181).

Year to date HGVs are up 22.05% (2,502).

Imported Used Cars have seen an increase of 23.66% (4,124) in October 2023, when compared to October 2022 (3,335). Year to date imports are up 4.2% (42,463) on 2022 (40,752).

For the month of October, 607 new elec-

tric vehicles were registered compared to 737 in October 2022 (-17.6%). So far this year 22,280 new electric cars have been registered in comparison to 15,247 (46.1%) on the same period 2022.

In October’s new car market, Petrol retained the largest share at 30.28%, Diesel accounted for 22.15%, Hybrid 18.57%, Electric 18.49%, and Plug-in Electric Hybrid 8.26%. Battery Electric Vehicles, Plug-in Hybrids and Hybrids now see their combined market share (year to date) at 45.32%.

Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General, commented: “In October, new car registrations decreased by 16.8% (2,178) on the same month last year, while year to date the new car market is actually ahead 15.6% (120,495) on 2022. New electric car registrations also saw a decline in October, with 607 units sold in comparison to 737 for the same month last year. However, the underlying EV market remains positive, and a more accurate view of this can be seen in the

22,280 EV registrations year to date, an increase of 46% on 2022. Electric Vehicles (EVs) now represent 18.5% of the new car market. Private consumer sales, with the support of SEAI grants, are the largest contributor of new electric vehicle registrations, accounting for nearly three quarters of EV sales. The clarity brought by last month’s Budget, with the extension of VRT and BIK reliefs, will support EV growth for next year in both the private and business sectors. Sales of commercials both Light (LCV) and Heavy Good Vehicles (HGVs), while subdued in October, remain ahead year to date.”

Co. Wexford statistics: New Car Registrations for January-October 2023 were 2804 versus 2855 in same period in 2022, which equals a drop of 1.79%.

New Electric Car Registrations for January-October 2023 were 508 versus 381 in same period in 2022, which equals a rise of 33.33%. n

4th November 2023 - Page 127

Slaney Slaney Sport ad

Crossabeg AFC 50th Anniversary Dinner Dance Ferrycarraig Hotel, 29th October 2023

To buy copies of photos on these pages, tel: 087-2403310 or email slaneynews@gmail.com Above left: Michael Carty, Michael Browne, Michael Roche, Brendan Roche, Tommy O’Neill, Adam Hendrick, John Sinnott and Rob Weldon – all of the surviving members of the 1973 team. Top right: Emma Doran and Rachael Jordan. Above right: John and Mary Quinn. Left: Alan and Terri Keeling. Right: Shauna Reck and Sean Tyrrell. Far right: Stephen Carley and Orla McConnell. Below left: Megan Reck, Amy Louise Jeffers and Louise Crosbie.

Below centre: Ned and Ester Flood. Below right: Davy, Miriam, Jenny and Danny O’Connor.

Page 128 - 4th November 2023

Slaney Sport

Enniscorthy Sports Hub

Congrats Maggie

O’Leary Sludds Architects were appointed in Feb 2021 for the detailed design, procurement of works contractor and construction management of the proposed new Sports Hub building consisting of a sports equipment storage area, changing rooms, toilets, showers and a small office.

A competition to award a works contract was advertised in May 2022. The lowest price tender opened for the project exceeded the available budget and, therefore, it was decided not to progress with awarding a works contract.

A redesign process for the project is now underway, and it is expected to retender early next year. Additional government funding is in the pipeline so there is likely to be €600,000 available for the next phase but a stand is not part of the plans. A ‘viewing balcony’ may form part of a future phase. Wexford Co. Council’s long-term vision for the Hub is that the building there should be a fully-fledged, multipurpose sports hall.

A recent assessment of the running track at the venue took place and the good news as reported by District Manager Claire Lawless to the October meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District is that only minor work is needed on the track and that will be done soon.

Enniscorthy’s Maggie O’Connor and her Irish Masters 4 x 400m relay team took home silver medals from the recent European athletics championships. Maggie was also on the 4 x 100m relay team who finished 4th. n

Enniscorthy Rugby Club’s AIL fixtures

Other works being progressed at the Sports Hub include the following: • • • • •

Operation of the online booking system is being finalised.

Automated entry system to be installed.

Lighting to be upgraded.

New signage.

Quotation for purchase of new equipment has been received.

A meeting was held with local athletics groups on 10th October to discuss the use and the future development of the Sports Hub. n

Sports Active Sports Active Wexford is all about creating a healthier, safer, more active and inclusive society in Co. Wexford.

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SportsActive n

Keep up to date on: Website: http://www.enniscorthyrugby.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScorthyRugby n

4th November 2023 - Page 129

Slaney Slaney Sport ad

Some consolation for Wexford FC as it just fails to gain promotion

A formal club link between Wexford FC and Reading Football Club has been announced following discussions over recent months, a visit by Wexford FC staff to the Reading FC Community Trust, and the visit by a contingent from Reading FC in recent weeks to Wexford town. The link comes as the club very narrowly missed out on promotion to the premier division of the League of Ireland, losing out to Cobh Ramblers in a two-legged playoff.

The contingent from Reading FC included Michael Gilkes (Academy Manager), Jamie Greenwood (Head of Football) and Noel Hunt (U21 Manager and Head of Player Development). They met with Wexford FC management in the Talbot Hotel where the new partnership was announced.

Fans will need no introduction to the long association between Wexford football and Reading – Wexford-born Irish international Kevin Doyle had a stellar career with 155 appearances for Reading in the late 2000s alongside a host of other Irish talent from the south east such as Shane Long, Stephen Hunt, and Noel Hunt.

Noel Hunt remains at Reading to this day as U21 Manager, with fellow Irishman Brian Carey as Head of Recruitment with

Page 130 - 4th November 2023

The Royals. The club also remembers the late Eamonn Dolan, twin brother of former Wexford Youths Head Coach Pat Dolan, who was Academy Manager and onetime Caretaker Manager of Reading FC. Going forward, Wexford FC hopes to learn from Reading’s extensive Football and Social Responsibility (FSR) programmes as well as assistance with coaching and player development.

A spokesperson for Wexford FC said: “We are grateful to all at Reading FC who have made this possible and look forward to a great relationship between the two clubs in future!

“We express our gratitude also for the long time friendship between Gary Dempsey and Noel Hunt that has brought the two clubs together.”

Wexford FC is owned 100% by the Wexford Supporters Trust (WST) and you can own a share in this League of Ireland club for just €20 per month! Have your say, voting rights at AGMs, and Free digital match programme every week!

Join at this link: https://wexfordfc.ie/supporterstrust Keep up to date with the club at: https://www.facebook.com/WexfordFC n

Slaney Sport

Enniscorthy Greyhound Track Racing on Thursdays only for November and December.

First race 7pm.

Enniscorthy Golf Club Great Membership Offer...

4th November 2023 - Page 131

Slaney hiStory Slaney ad & heritage

Discovering medieval Ferns ‘Discovering Medieval Ferns' is hot off the presses and a real treasure of a book. This definitive book on the medieval history of Ferns, sheds new light on Ferns and its place in medieval Leinster and Ireland. Edited by Stephen Mandal, Michael Potterton and Denis Shine, it has 15 chapters by local and national contributors from archaeological, historical and community perspectives.

This book is a fitting legacy for all the archaeological work done in Ferns in recent times and thanks are due to the Irish Archaeology Field School, Wexford County Council and the Ancient Connections project for their support of the project.

The book is on sale now at a special price of €25 at the Medieval Ferns Experience (Y21 VW29) from 11am–5pm Wednesday to Saturday. But be quick, there’s not many in stock! It can also be purchased in selected bookshops and directly from Four Courts Press.

The official launch of the book was held last month at a successful event in St Mogue’s Cottage in Ferns. n

A new and very different Medieval Ferns Experience Want to try something new and very different?

Well, one of Co. Wexford's newest visitor attractions is open in Ferns, located at Ferns Community Centre in a specially refurbished area.

The Experience tells the fascinating story of Ferns medieval history in an interactive and fun way. Using audiovisual sensory and virtual reality it really gives a great insight into power shifts in the Ancient Capital of Leinster.

Opening hours for November to May are 11am-5pm Wednesday to Saturday with last admission at 4pm.

For all enquiries email: medievalfernsexperience@fernsvillage.ie or phone: 089-4946972 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedievalFernsExperience Entry fee is €6. Seniors/Students €5. Children under 12 are free. Guided walking tours of the key historical sites in Ferns village are also available costing €10. n

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Slaney hiStory & heritage

‘The Folklore of Wexford’ – pre-order now

Michael Fortune

Ballindaggin-based Michael Fortune’s eagerly awaited new book entitled The Folklore of Wexford can now be pre-ordered on his www.folklore.ie website. The book will be officially launched in Gorey on the 1st of December, 2023.

The Folklore of Wexford (Volume 1) is a 130-page publication that Michael has been working on all year and charts the living folklore, traditions, stories and calendar customs of Wexford and also gives context to the connections and differences to the rest of the country, the rest of Europe and also to the island of Newfoundland.

The publication is in full colour throughout with over one hundred contemporary photographs plus sixty QR Codes to interviews and tutorials which he recorded with people over the past two decades.

Michael says, “Sometimes I find some books can be over-designed and too big and awkward in the hand” so his new book has been designed and is being litho printed and perfect bound in Ireland at a size that will feel comfortable and usable in the hand.

The book has been produced in conjunction with the North Wexford Historical

Society and with the support of the Arts Office of Wexford County Council under their 'Creative Communities Programme'.

Pre-Order: There will only be 750 copies of this book printed so it is recommended that you pre-order now to secure your copy.

The book will be officially launched on Friday the 1st of December 2023 in the Loch Garman Arms Hotel in Gorey. Preordered books will be posted on the 29th of November and can be shipped to anywhere in Ireland or the world.

Michael is delighted that he has managed to keep costs down so he can sell the book for €15 each which he says “is great value for what you are getting”.

There is postage payable on top of the

purchase price based on An Post postal rates.

Michael says there will be a Volume 2 in 2024 but that now is the only chance to grab Volume 1. Order at www.folklore.ie About folklore.ie: folklore.ie is a living online archive centred on the work of artist/folklorist Michael Fortune and provides a good introduction to his folklore, oral history and place-based recording work which has been ongoing since the late 1990s. The website contains links to 27 YouTube playlists which amount to over 300 individual films and hundreds of hours of content. If you wish to view more please subscribe to his YouTube Channel which has over 1,300 recordings.

You can also follow folklore.ie on Facebook. n

4th November 2023 - Page 133

Slaney hiStory Slaney ad & heritage

Sport and War in Co. Wexford during the Revolutionary Period

The Ballybrittas Dolmen

Paul Rouse is Professor of History, University College Dublin. He has written extensively on the history of Irish sport and he writes a weekly column for the Irish Examiner.

He is currently Co-Director of two major public history projects: Century Ireland (www.rte.ie/centuryireland), the main online portal for the Irish Decade of Commemorations, 1912-23; GAA Oral History Project (www.gaa.ie/the-gaa/oral-history/), the largest oral history project undertaken by any sporting organisation in the world.

Prof Rouse will give a talk on ‘Sport and War in Co. Wexford during the Revolutionary Period’ on Tuesday, 21st November, at 7pm in Wexford Library.

Booking is essential: https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/4113709 n

The beautiful and historic Ballybrittas Dolmen Trail, Bree Hill, was officially opened on 13th August 2023 by Cllr. John O’Rourke, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District. The dolmen itself dates from the Neolithic Period (4000-2500 BC), and is probably Wexford’s oldest standing structure, and has the protection of the National Monuments Act. The Ballybrittas Dolmen tomb consists of two large portal stones and a backstone that support a substantial roof stone. In addition, the dolmen has two side stones and a sill stone, the latter located at the tomb’s east facing entrance. Together, these elements enclose a small rectangular chamber in which burial remains would have been placed. This form of burial monument is known as a Portal Tomb.

Bree Hill is a Coillte forest with three beautiful trails to enjoy in an area that was produced by a volcanic eruption roughly 400 million years ago.

There are spectacular views to enjoy including the Blackstairs Mountains and, on a good day, Tuskar Lighthouse which is situated six miles southeast of Rosslare Europort. n

The National 1798 Rebellion Centre is now closed for 2023 to prepare for the upcoming Santa's Enchanted Christmas. Its sister site, Enniscorthy Castle, remains open seven days a week so be sure to drop in for a visit.

For more information visit www.1798centre.ie For updates, visit https://www.facebook.com/1798centre

Page 134 - 4th November 2023

Slaney environment What to expect when you visit

Get the most from your

Local Household Recycling Centre

The €2 entry charge applies to all visits to site whether on foot, bicycle, car or van and irrespective of the amount of waste.

The charge will be payable on entry by inserting €2 (in any combination of coins excluding copper) into a coin slot to raise the barrier.

What you get for your €2 entry charge - Materials accepted in each of the 4 sites

There is a €2 CHARGE FOR ENTRY to Wexford County Councils’ four household recycling centres at Holmestown, New Ross, Enniscorthy and Gorey.

Printer cartridges

Textiles – E.G. Curtains, clothes, blankets, sheets, shoes etc

That is still great value for money – see all the items that can be brought to the sites inside...

Loose Dry Mixed Recyclables Plastics, tetra pak cartons, magazines, greeting cards, booklets.

Waste cooking oil (max 23 litres) Florescent lights – including spot bulbs - no pearl bulbs

Waste engine oil (max 23 litres)

All metals, including food cans

Glass bottles & jars – green, brown & clear glass

Food waste

Batteries – household, car & electric fence batteries (maximum 3 electric fence batteries)

Drink cans

Cardboard

Christmas trees (Christmas time only)

Mobile phones including batteries and chargers (for charity)

NO ENTRY CHARGE WILL APPLY to customers bringing only waste electrical /electronic (WEEE) goods

For further information see www.wexfordcoco.ie or phone 053 9196000 before your visit.

CUSTOMERS BRINGING ONLY WASTE

Opening hours for all sites and site locations

ELECTRICAL / ELECTRONIC (WEEE) GOODS NO ENTRY CHARGE WILL APPLY.

We would encourage you to visit sites less frequently but with a larger amount of waste if possible, for best value for money.

Single axle trailer, larger load

€100

Double axle trailer,large van, horse box (max. 20 bags or equivalent volume) €100 €150

Larger loads - €200 per tonne (weighed over weighbridge subject to a minimum €200 charge.)

Double axle trailer, large van, horse box (Max. 20 Bags)

€30

Maximum amount of paint accepted is 60L

Donohoe Motor Group

€50

Larger loads - €70 per tonne (weighed over weighbridge, subject to minimum €70 charge.)

2 Seater sofa 3 Seater sofa Carpet (12 x 12)

€21 €28 €21

µNew Ross

Wexford Town

¶

Maldron Hotel

Larkins Cross Barntown Church

Enniscorhty Mart

Gorey Household Recycling Centre Gorey Business Park, Ramstown, Gorey, Co. Wexford Eircode: Y25 KT35 Tel: 053 9431001

Brandon House Hotel

Kennedy College

Tesco

Main

Household Recycling Centre

30

µN

Children must be supervised by an adult at all times. Pets must be kept in your car.

If you require help ask a member of staff.

National Heritage Park

N25

NCT Centre

New Ross Household Recycling Centre Hewitsland, New Ross, Co. Wexford.

Eircode: Y34 HT99 Tel: 051 440722

When using the centre Sort your waste into recyclable and non-recyclable waste at home • Cardboard must be clean & flattened if possible • Glass should be clean, lids removed & colour sorted • Cans should be clean & sorted by type - food/drinks • Clothing should be clean • Shoes should be in pairs • All waste must be placed in the correct receptacle.

Household Recycling Centre

€2

µ Old Charleton Hill

€14 €28 €14

Kilcannon Garden Centre

¸Enniscorthy Town

Polystyrene (Pilot Scheme) Polystyrene per bag (all polystyrene must be bagged)

Holmestown Household Recycling Centre Barntown, Wexford. Eircode: Y35 Y28W Tel: 053 9120922

Household Recycling Centre

No mixing of paints e.g. gloss, emulsions, varnish etc. Protect our environment and dispose of paints in their original container.

Bulky Items - Holmestown Only Single mattress or base Double mattress or base Armchair

Enniscorthy Household Recycling Centre Old Dublin Rd, Kilcannon, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford Eircode: Y21 KC43 Tel: 053 9239790

µ N25 Wate

orey

St. G

¶

Tesco

Civil Offices Library

h

€65

Single axle trailer, car, van, estate car (max.

12 Bags)

€14

€1 per litre

Closed Sunday, Monday & Bank Holidays.

ug

Car load (max 5 bags)

Single axle trailer, car van, estate car (max. 13 bags or equivalent volume)

Double axle trailer, larger load

Paint

Closed for lunch between 12 noon & 1p.m.

L30223

€25

Paint

Bag of garden waste (bag size 100cm x 60 cm) €4

8.15 a.m. – 12 noon 1.00p.m. – 3.00 p.m.

µ C lo

Car (max. 5 Bags )

Garden Waste

¶

€5

D ub lin R d

Refuse per bag

N11 Dubin

General Waste

Saturday

For further information visit www.wexfordcoco.ie or contact the Environment Section of Wexford County Council on 053 9196000

€2 entry charge applies to Holmestown as well as charges below.

Closed

Tuesday – Friday 8.15 a.m. – 12 noon 1.00p.m. – 4.00 p.m.

Old

Holmestown Only

Monday

d for ex 5W N2

The Avenue Retail Units

¶ Recycling Centre

rford

4th November 2023 - Page 135

Slaney Slaney environment ad

New street bins for Ferns

Bottle Bank for eastside?

Over the last number of years the community in Ferns has been in consultation with Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) and Cllr. Aidan Browne in particular regarding the installation of extra street bins and replacing the existing ones which have become very shabby and worn.

Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District Cllr John O’Rourke (pictured) has requested that a Bottle Bank be set up on Enniscorthy’s eastside to facilitate residents who currently have to travel to the westside to avail of facilities there. n

The good news is that three new Big Belly bins have arrived and they look really well displaying some fantastic images showcasing Ferns’ unique heritage sites.

The bins have been placed at both bus stops and at the top of the village just outside the Thatch.

The Big Belly Bins are creating a positive first impression for visitors and locals as they visit the town. With total containment and increased capacity, overflowing bins and litter blowing around in the wind should be a thing of the past.

The community thanks EMD and Cllr Browne for their continuing support. 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

Green loans from Enniscorthy Credit Union Need to retrofit your cold, 1970s house? Enniscorthy Credit Union’s Green Loan is designed to help you do just that – with one of its lowest rates for a loan 5.25% (5.4% APR) you can save money, save energy and save the environment with Enniscorthy Credit Union! Talk to them today at 053 9233835 or email: loans@enniscorthycu.ie n

Page 136 - 4th November 2023

Slaney environment

Well deserved funding for Co. Wexford’s Tidy Towns groups Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has confirmed funding for 36 eligible County Wexford Tidy Towns groups, which will assist with their preparations for the 2024 SuperValu Tidy Towns competition.

Some Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers.

Minister Browne commented, “There are 36 eligible County Wexford groups that can avail of this funding.

This allocation will provide top-up funding for eligible Tidy Towns groups across County Wexford. All of the SuperValu Tidy Towns Groups who entered the competition in any of 2021, 2022 and 2023 will be eligible to apply.

“The 36 County Wexford groups include Wexford town (€4,000), Enniscorthy (€3,000), Gorey (€3,000), New Ross (€3,000), Taghmon (€2,000), Rosslare Harbour (€2,000), Rosslare Strand (€2,000), Ferns (€2,000), and Bunclody (€2,000). Alongside these groups, 27 groups are eligible for a €1,000 top-up grant: Askamore, Ballyduff, Duncormick, Foulksmills, Ballindaggin, Ballycullane, Ballymurn, Blackwater, Bree, Bridgetown, Campile, Carrig on Bannow, Clonroche, Coolgreany, Courtnacuddy, Hollyfort, Kilanerin, Killanne, Kilmuckridge,

Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan put it on the record at the October meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District her appreciation and thanks to the Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group and those groups operating in the various villages such as Ballindaggin.

Marshalstown, Monageer, Oylegate, Wellingtonbridge, Adamstown, Camolin, Clohamon, and Courtown Harbour.

“Tidy Towns groups across County Wexford play a major role in making our towns and villages better places in which to work, live and raise a family.

The funding of between €1,000 and €4,000 is being provided to County Wexford groups to assist them in preparing for the 2024 Competition in

At the October meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District, the Manager Claire Lawless (pictured on right) said, “Congratulations and well done to the Tidy Towns groups who entered the National Supervalu Tidy Town Competition in the District including Bree, Bunclody, Ballindaggin, Ferns and Enniscorthy. Enniscorthy Tidy Towns significantly improved their score on last year and were awarded a Silver Medal.

“I wish to thank all the volunteers, groups and members of the EMD outdoor staff

particular initiatives in the areas of biodiversity, sustainability and inclusion, all of which help Ireland realise its commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). All eligible groups will be contacted before Christmas to confirm their funding. All projects and initiatives funded under this support must be completed

by July 31st, 2024”, Minister Browne concluded. n

for their continued efforts in keeping the town and district tidy and looking it best.

The dedication, commitment and passion of the volunteer groups is something to be proud of.” n

4th November 2023 - Page 137

Slaney Slaney environment ad

Draft Wexford Co. Council Climate Action Plan is open for public consultation Wexford County Council has made a Draft Wexford County Council Climate Action Plan (CAP) for the period 20242029. The Draft CAP sets out how the local authority can promote a range of mitigation, adaptation and other climate action measures, to help deliver the Government's National Climate Objective to achieve, by no later than the end of 2050, a transition to a climate resilient, biodiversity rich, environmentally sustainable and climate neutral economy.

The Draft Plan has been prepared by Wexford Co. Council in partnership with the Eastern & Midlands Climate Action Regional Office (CARO) together with the South East Energy Agency (SEEA) and with the support of the Climate Change, Biodiversity & Environment Strategic Policy Committee and the Elected Members of Wexford Co. Council.

The core targets of Wexford County Council’s Draft Climate Action Plan are: • 50% improvement in the Council’s energy efficiency by 2030.

• 51% reduction in the Council’s greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

The actions within this Draft Climate Action Plan include those for which the Council is fully accountable across its own buildings, operations, services, and functions; as well as actions for which the Council will influence, co-ordinate, facilitate and advocate on for climate action.

A copy of the Draft Wexford County Council Climate Action Plan and associated documents is available by clicking the link below: https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie You can also access printed copies for review at any of the following District Of-

fices: Gorey-Kilmuckridge, New Ross, Enniscorthy, Rosslare, Borough District of Wexford and Wexford County Council, County Hall. And also at the libraries in Bunclody, Enniscorthy, New Ross, Wexford and Gorey. The Draft Plan is available during normal opening hours.

In late October, the County Wexford Climate Team provided guidance on the Draft Plan and consultation process at public information drop-in events in Enniscorthy, Gorey, New Ross, Wexford and Kilmore Quay.

The Council is still anxious to hear from the general public so it is reminding the public to submit their views, observations and recommendations for consideration in the preparation of the draft Climate Action Plan. The closing date for these submissions is November 21st. n

Community Climate Action Programme Wexford County Council is delighted that funds are available now to community groups for 100% of the costs of climate action projects countywide.

Funding will be awarded according to the scale of the project, up to a maximum of €100,000. This funding is for the not-for-profit sector, charities, clubs and community organisions.

The fund is due to open around now for applications. Groups can discuss their potential projects with the Council’s Community Climate Action Officer, Clinton Donovan. Phone 053-9196443 or email climateaction@wexfordcoco.ie More details on the Programme are available here: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/environment/climate-changeand-energy-management/community-cl imate-action-programmeccap/community n

Page 138 - 4th November 2023

Wexford Co. Council team: L-R: Clinton Donovan, Community Climate Action Officer, Frank Burke, Climate Action Co-ordinator, Clare Kelly, Climate Action Officer.

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To find out more or to book a FREE Consultation and Scan (using cutting edge pressure mapping technology), drop in to the O'Suan Sleep showroom located at The Green, Clonard Village, Wexford Town, Y35 R288.

Or contact Ray or Luke on: 083-1172909, email: wexford@osuansleep.com, www.osuansleep.com