Wexford Residents’ Awards: Cllr Aidan Browne presents the ‘Most Improved’ award for the Enniscorthy district to Gimont/ Cluain Dara, represented by Pat Carty.
Reliable advice on all aspects of the law since 1929 Solicitors & Commissioners for Oaths Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, Y21 W5T1 Tel: 053 92 33547 Email: info@fmclaw.ie
Newly elected Enniscorthy TDs James Browne and Johnny Mythen.
Santa switches on the Christmas Lights in Enniscorthy on 22nd November, 2024.
Welcome to the December issue of the Slaney News.
One of the interesting news stories from the recent General Election is that Co. Wexford will have seven TDs in the 34th Dáil. Not many other counties can match that! The new Wexford constituency lineup is James Browne (FF), Johnny Mythen (SF), George Lawlor (Lab), and Verona Murphy (Ind). In addition, the Gorey area is providing the three TDs elected for the new South Wicklow-North Wexford constituency: Brian Brennan (FG), Malcolm Byrne (FF) and Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin (SF). For the first time in 91 years, Fine Gael will have no TD in the Co. Wexford constituency. Voters will be keen to see how these seven TDs work for Co. Wexford over the next five years. We congratulate all those elected, and commiserate with all those who were unsuccessful on this occasion.
Santa's Enchanted Christmas at The National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy is underway and runs until 23rd December. For best choice of dates and times, book your tickets now at www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie
We include as always a huge number of photos taken around Enniscorthy, and beyond. If you would like to purchase any of our photos please get in touch by email at slaneynews@gmail.com
If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our online format. Tel: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has almost 13,000 Followers. And, of course, if you like our format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you
– Frank Corcoran
SLANEY NEWS
Barbara-Anne Murphy COUNCILLOR
Clinic in Redmond’s, Main street, Bunclody, Monday, December 16th, from 7.30-8.00pm or by appointment.
Tim and Fiona Phelan invite you to visit their new cafe at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy. The Ballymaloe-trained couple are making full use of a new, top-of-the-range kitchen to offer exceptional food produced in-house as well as supporting local artisan suppliers. The cafe serves mouth-watering breakfast and lunch menus Mon-Fri 9am to 4.30pm, and brunch on Saturdays 10am to 3pm. Closed on Sundays. Takeaway and Outside Catering also available.
https://www.facebook.com/Cafe98Enniscorthy https://www.instagram.com/cafe98enniscorthy Telephone: 085 1993775 BOOKINGS NOW AVAILABLE FOR
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Enniscorthy Technology Park
Castle Nightclub
The purchase of the Castle Nightclub by Wexford Co. Council (WCC) is almost complete. This move is to facilitate the Castle Heritage Quarter part of the Enniscorthy Town Centre First Plan. A presentation will be made to Enniscorthy Municipal District Council this month regarding WCC’s overall plan for the Castle area. n
CLLR. JOHN O’ROURKE
Season’s Greetings to all my family, friends, and constituents and thank you for your help and support in 2024.
PARK
PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT’ TICKETS: RIVERSIDE PARK HOTEL, ENNISCORTHY, OR TICKETMASTER.IE DAN McCABE Friday Jan 24th 8pm MIKE DENVER Guests: Brendan Shine & Olivia Douglas Friday Feb 7th 8pm JOHNNY McEVOY
All the 'Hits' Sunday Feb 16th 8pm
Than ks so much for all your support in 2024 and in pa rticu la r during the recent successfu l election ca mpa ig n. no lla ig Shona agus athbh l ia in Fa oi Mha ise da oibh, agus bígí sábha ilte!
Best Wishes for Christmas and the new yea r and keep safe and well.
Wishing everyone a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas 2024 and every good wish for a Happy and Healthy 2025.
Pat.Kehoe@wexfordmcc.ie 087-668 3067 Please support your Local Businesses this Christmas
Joh nny Mythen
Enniscorthy’s Christmas Lights get switched on
More photos on pages 82-83
The Enniscorthy Christmas Lights switch-on event took place on Friday 22nd November. The event commenced with a festive parade from the Castle to the Market Square with participants including Santa, Mrs Claus, the Elves, characters from Rathnure Panto, and Leacy’s School of Dance.
There was free kids facepainting in the Market Square, and the North Pole Post Box was in use there also as children posted their Santa letters.
There was a prize on the day for the best Christmas outfit, and South East Radio was there broadcasting live. n
Above: Cllr Aidan Browne and family at Santa’s Enchanted Christmas in Enniscorthy.
Tickets selling fast for Santa’s annual visit to Enniscorthy
Santa’s Enchanted Christmas Experience at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre has kicked off the festive season with a spectacular opening weekend. Hundreds of families attended, with many expressing that this year’s event surpasses previous editions.
Tickets are selling rapidly, especially for weekend slots. While some times are fully booked, there is still availability during various weekend hours. Families are encouraged to visit www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie to secure their preferred times and avoid missing out on this magical experience.
This year’s event promises an enchanting journey through festive settings, a magical visit to Santa, and engaging activities for all ages. Sensory-friendly days are also available, providing a comfortable and inclusive environment for children with sensory needs and small babies. Availability for sensory days can be checked online.
Cllr Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District, who attended the experience over the weekend with his family (pictured on previous page), shared his delight:“The Santa’s Enchanted Christmas Experience was absolutely magical. My family and I were captivated by the festive atmosphere and the attention to detail. It’s a mustvisit for anyone looking to get into the Christmas spirit.”
Mico Hassett, Manager of the National 1798 Rebellion Centre, added: “We are thrilled to see so many families enjoying Santa’s Enchanted Christmas Experience. The opening weekend exceeded all expectations, and we’re so proud to have created a festive tradition that keeps getting better every year. We encourage everyone to book soon, as tickets are going fast!”
Visitors are encouraged to take time to visit the on-site café, which is serving up a delicious range of cakes, desserts, lunches, and
festive treats. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak up the Christmas atmosphere after meeting Santa.
While in Enniscorthy, families can also explore the beautifully decorated Enniscorthy Castle, open for visits throughout the festive season. The historic castle provides a unique experience and makes for an excellent addition to a day out. Visitors can also enjoy shopping in the town’s charming local stores and boutiques, making it a perfect festive outing.
A special Santa Paws Day is scheduled for 12th December, allowing families to bring their furry friends to join in the festive fun. Bookings for this unique event are open on the website.
Don’t miss out on creating unforgettable memories this Christmas!
Visit www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie to book your tickets today! n
New seating has been installed. Design and content work on new Heritage Interpretive panels has commenced. Parking and access improvements to Vinegar Hill are being investigated by Wexford Co. Council.
ST JOHN’S COMMUNITY ACTIVITY GARDEN
Construction work has commenced on this exciting project which will be open to the public in addition to its use by residents and users of the St John’s Hospital complex. Expected completion date is August 2025.
SANTA’S ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS
Santa's Enchanted Christmas at The National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy runs until 23rd December. For more information and tickets: www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie
ENNISCORTHY TOWN CENTRE REGENERATION PROJECT
The Part 8 process for the Market Square project was concluded on 9th September 2024, with the Council approving the scheme with amendments to address matters raised during the public consultation process.
Preliminary design work on the Enniscorthy Castle Quarter element of the Town Centre First Plan (TCFP) is ongoing and it is intended to make a Part 8 submission for this in quarter one of 2025. A presentation about it will be made at the upcoming December meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District.
Regarding the Templeshannon element of the TCFP, ODKM Architects have been appointed to undertake concept master planning design services. Some months ago Wexford County Council expressed the hope that some ideas in relation to Templeshannon could be brought to the EMD meeting this December.
ENNISCORTHY SPORTS HUB
A tender competition to procure a works contractor for the second phase (sports equipment storage area, changing rooms, toilets, showers and a small office) of the Sports Hub was advertised on eTenders on 18th June 2024. Tenders have been received and assessment is ongoing. Appointment is anticipated very soon. Construction is expected to start early next year and take 9-12 months to complete.
ENNISCORTHY NORTH BUSINESS DISTRICT (Old Dublin Road)
Some works have been carried out in the recent years on the Enniscorthy North Business District (Old Dublin Road) where over 2,000 people currently work. An application for further funding was submitted to the National Transport Authority for the active travel elements of the masterplan for the area but no funding was forthcoming for 2023 or 2024. A further application for funding will be made in 2025.
MURPHY FLOODS REDEVELOPMENT
Wexford Co. Council has developed a temporary plan for the site to include 28 car-parking spaces and some public realm works. Works are expected to be done early in the new year.
BUNCLODY PARK
A Stage 2 Natura Impact Statement, plans and particulars were submitted to An Bord Pleanala under Section 177AE. The Board was satisfied that the proposed development would not adversely affect the integrity of the Slaney River Valley Special area of Conservation. The application was approved with conditions. Wexford Co. Council Property Section is currently in discussion with local landowners.
RAFTER STREET PEDESTRIANISATION
Pedestrian Zone signage has been ordered for Rafter Street. Pedestrianisation will be enforced between the hours of 10.00am and 4.30pm as per Bye Laws. Correspondence has been issued to Waste Contractors regarding collection of waste outside of these hours. New bollards have been ordered. The bollards will be placed at both ends of the street. Notification will be issued to business owners on Rafter Street.
ALL-WEATHER
ASTRO PITCH, ROSS ROAD
Works are complete on the all-weather pitch. Works are ongoing on the carparking at the facility. Final certifications from the contractor are awaited before official handover to Wexford Co. Council. A manual booking system will be in place initially due to delays with ESB connection.
ENNISCORTHY
TRAILS
Works are ongoing on design and planning to extend the trail network to link to the Ringwood and Borodale trails.
CHRISTMAS WINDOW DISPLAY COMPETITION
Business owners in Enniscorthy, Ferns and Bunclody are invited to take part. The most festive winning entry will be announced on Friday 20th December and will receive €500 worth of Wexford County Chamber Vouchers sponsored by Enniscorthy Municipal District. Please email your interest to emdreception@wexfordcoco.ie
BROOKLYN INFORMATION SIGN
Information is being gathered for a new sign to be located at the Brooklyn bench by the Slaney. Brooklyn was filmed in Enniscorthy in 2014 and the book is now on the French school curriculum. A number of schools are expected to visit Enniscorthy from France in 2025 to do the Brooklyn Movie Bus Tour run by Cathy Keane.
PLAYFUL SPACES PROJECT
The launch of the musical equipment in the Orchard Peace Park took place on 8th November. The project is supported by Healthy Wexford through the Healthy Ireland fund. The musical instruments are a great addition to the park and the play-along-the-way concept makes for a more interesting journey through the park.
BELLEFIELD ROAD COMMUNITY PLAYGROUND & PUBLIC REALM
The Bellefield Road Playground and Public Realm is now open to the public and is a wonderful new amenity for the area. n
Let there be peace
A new CD by P.J. O’Connor called Let There Be Peace is now available with the proceeds going to Amnesty International and St. Aidan’s Cathedral. It’s available in the Parish Office or direct from P.J. at 089 4408891. All support would be most welcome.
Coffee morning
A St Aidan’s Parish coffee morning will take place at The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, on Thursday 5th December, from 10am to 12 noon. All are invited for tea, cake and a chat with friends old and new.
Gospel Choir
Rehearsals take place every Wednesday at 8pm in the IFA Centre in Enniscorthy. New members welcome!
Impresso
Best of luck to Joy, Brendan and the Impresso team as they move next door to their new premises at Slaney Place this week.
Credit Union AGM
The Enniscorthy Credit Union AGM will be held in the Riverside Park Hotel on Weds, 11th December, 7pm. All members are welcome to attend. n
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Doyles MG Motor
Top left: Ellen Harrington, Lisa Bailey, Evelyn Quinn, baby Alice Harrington, Leanne Harrington, Ada Bailey in front.
Top centre: Kellie Doyle, Natasha Maher.
Top right: Francis and Paul Gorman.
Left: Cutting the ribbon.
Below left: Paddy Doyle, Pat Doyle, Bernard Doyle, Kellie Doyle.
Below right: Andrew Johnson, Fionnuala Rice, Gerard Rice.
Above L-R: 1. Gavin and Carly O’Toole. 2. Derek Corrigan and James O’Byrne (Wicklow Vintage Club). 3. Andy Doyle, a loyal customer of Doyle’s Garage.
Above L-R: 1. Amy Lawless, Sarah Harrington, Tara Doyle. 2. Paddy Doyle and Peter Miller. 3. Eoghan Sheehy and daughter Hannah. 4. Millisa Dreelan, Davy Byrne.
Above L-R: 1. Aaron O’Keeffe, Walter Winters. 2. Bernard Doyle. 3. Michael O’Brien, Sheelagh Redmond, Ciara Doyle, John Doyle. 4. Mary Kenny, Evelyn Quinn.
Above L-R: 1. Lisa Bailey, Katie Doyle. 2. Catherine, Gabriel (5 weeks old!), Francis and Paul Gorman 3. Derek Cunningham on saxophone. 4. Mick Farrell, Mary Driver and Anthony Doyle. Below L-R: 1. Dorothy O’Connor, Paul and Riadh Willoughby. 2. Kathy Shaw, Ellie Shaw, Emily Willis and Noeleen Willis. 3. Evelyn Quinn, Phyllis Stafford. 4. Sheila Redmond, Sarah and Michael Whelan.
Enniscorthy Tidy Town Awards
On 27th November 2024 the annual Enniscorthy Tidy Town Awards took place in the Riverside Park Hotel and what an amazing evening it was affording the organisers a wonderful opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to members of the public, residents’ associations, estates, streets, businesses, schools and other community groups, and recognising their hard work and dedication.
Local Councillors Barbara-Anne Murphy, John O’Rourke, Jackser Owens and Cathaoirleach Aidan Browne were on hand to present the awards. And officials of Enniscorthy Municipal District were also present to lend their support.
According to Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group Chairman Jonathon Hughes, “Judging this year was very tough which is an indication of how great our town is looking... our first ever GOLD medal would not have been possible without the support of everyone in our community. Keep up the great work Enniscorthy!”
COMMUNITY AWARDS:
Best Community Area/Project/Initiative: Enniscorthy East Community Development.
Student Photograph Competition: Evan Sheridan.
An Gaisce Awards:
Jessica Mitten, Siún Ryan, Lily Gadacz, Hannah McInerny and Robin O’Connor Cussen (Colaíste Bríde).
STREETSCAPES & PUBLIC PLACES:
Best Presented Shopfront: Bega Barbers, Main Street.
Best Presented Industrial Premises: MG Motor, Old Dublin Road.
Most Improved Business Premises: Kavanagh’s Garage, Island Road (John & Marie Sinnott).
GREEN SPACES & LANDSCAPES:
Best Planning, Design and Maintenance of Green Spaces: McCauley Park, Bellefield.
Best Green Space – Schools: St Patrick’s School.
NATURE AND BIODIVERSITY:
Mark Stanley Award – for Nature & Biodiversity: Enniscorthy Library.
Best Window Boxes / Hanging Baskets – Commercial: Dawson’s Pub.
Best Window Boxes / Hanging Baskets – Residential: Margaret Doyle, Gort Na Silíní, Cherry Orchard.
Best Area for Pollinators – Community: Enniscorthy Community Allotments.
Best Area for Pollinators – Residential: Rectory Heights Residents.
SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS:
Business Award for Sustainability:
Eco-Kind (Aideen Vonno) for 2GoCup reusable coffee cup initiative and refill store.
Most Sustainable Estate / Street / Residential Area: Bridgemeadows Residents’ Association.
TIDINESS AND LITTER AWARD:
Cleanest Estate / Street / Residential Area Award: Gimont Residential Area.
RESIDENTIAL STREETS AND HOUSING AREAS:
Best Presented Garden (Large):
Martin Redmond and Anabelle Devereaux, Summerhill.
Best Presented Garden (Small): Jack Doyle, Bellefield Road.
Best Presented Housing Estate: Forgelands Estate, Milehouse.
APPROACH ROADS, STREETS AND LANES:
Best Presented Approach Road, Street, Lane: Milehouse Residents’ Association (green area, raised beds and ‘yen-bombing’/knitting).
ADJUDICATOR’S AWARD:
Margaret Murphy, Cluain Bui, The Moyne. n
A monthly update from GreenTech HQ
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€2.5m in LEADER grants for niche tourism, food, and circular economy businesses
The new LEADER 2023-2027 Programme has almost €2.5 million in grant aid available for the enterprise and social enterprise sectors in Co. Wexford between now and 2027.
Tom Bermingham, LEADER Programme Coordinator at Wexford Local Development (WLD), confirmed that grant aid of up to 60% of eligible costs is now available for niche new and expanding businesses. In a change from previous LEADER Programmes, grant aid for projects which facilitate job creation and economic development is confined to business involved in tourism, food and/or the circular economy.
Mindful that promotion of the circular and bioeconomy in Wexford can bring significant environmental and economic benefits, the new LEADER Programme will prioritise projects that address climate change, demon strate environmental sustainability, re source efficiency, job sustainability and job creation. With the triple aims of delivering sustainable economic growth, reducing waste, and preserv ing natural resources.
In terms of tourism, WLD will prioritise projects that promote sustainable tourism and adopt eco-friendly practices. This will include alternative accommodation types that will attract more visitors, create new employment opportunities, boost the local economy, protect and enhance our county’s environment and, at the same time, preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the county. Meanwhile, niche, innovative food and beverage businesses will continue to be supported with LEADER grant aid for equipment as well as marketing supports.
Acknowledging that social enterprises combine business principles with positive social and/or environmental purposes, LEADER will support social enterprises that develop new and innovative solutions to challenges not adequately addressed by the state or private enterprise. This includes community tourism focused social enterprises that empower local
communities, preserve cultural heritage, protect the environment, and ensure that the economic benefits of tourism contribute to the overall well-being of the community.
For details on eligibility and how to apply visit www.wld.ie/leader n
Tom Bermingham Paul Sinnott
New Templeshannon women’s group
11am - 12.30pm Every
Journey of Hope launched at IFA Centre
Journey of Hope, a new local charity, was launched on Thursday 28th November by former Governor of Mountjoy Prison John Lonergan at the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy.
Chief organisers of the charity Edel Gahan and Geraldine Doyle said the aim of this new organisation was to bring help and hope to those who need it in our local communities.
Speakers at the very well attended launch were Elaine Kehoe, Mental Health Executive with the HSE in the area of substance abuse, and the aforementioned John Lonergan who said it was an honour for him to be asked to be in at the outset of this marvellous new initiative to bring hope to those in the community who needed it, as he said, ‘A life without hope is no life at all.’
‘We all need hope, it is essential to the human condition as is connection, we all need to stay connected and that is what this new charity is all about, keeping people in our society who could be so easily marginalised, connected. The feeling of belonging is fundamentally important for health and wellbeing,’ Mr. Lonergan continued, ‘And I would ask you all to respect confidentiality and be non-judgemental in your dealings with people.’
Mr. Lonergan’s final message of the evening was, ‘Better to light a candle than to curse the dark,’ and he complimented all involved for their generosity of spirit and heart in setting up this new community-based initiative.
– Maria Nolan
EBA questions local politicians
A covering letter and a list of six questions was forwarded by the Enniscorthy Business Association (EBA) to candidates for the Wexford constituency in advance of the recent general election. To date only 4 responses have been received. We reproduce the letter, the 6 questions, and responses hereunder:
Dear Candidate,
Enniscorthy Business Association is a group of like-minded business owners and managers, who co-operate, collaborate, and learn together. We represent over a hundred businesses and care for many thousands of staff and customers. We have lots in common and share many goals in that most of us live in and around Enniscorthy; our town’s success is hugely important and we share the same concerns when it comes to managing the town’s development, and the opportunities and threats that development may bring.
We are presenting a set of questions to each of the General Election candidates who seek to represent us and the voters in our area to try and ascertain who we can support and who is the best fit for our community.
We want to publish these responses so our community is clear on the respective candidate’s position in relation to issues of concern to all in Enniscorthy. Therefore in order to be concise we would be obliged if you could respond to the six main concerns outlined below. We intend to publish these responses.... Your sincerely,
Enniscorthy Business Association, Care of Matt Ronan, Evolv, 2 Castle Hill, Enniscorthy, Y21 RY67.
The 6 questions:
1. Current town centre first plans for Enniscorthy require a net loss of 6080 car-parking spaces in the town centre without replacement. Do you consider this will have a positive or negative effect on the vibrancy of Enniscorthy town centre?
2. The elderly and people with reduced mobility seem to be ignored in this county council town centre first plan – do you have any comfort for these valued customers of Enniscorthy?
3. During winter 2023 a poll of over 300 Enniscorthy shoppers showed over 90 percent favoured more parking over more pedestrianisation. If we accept these numbers and also look at the historical lack of spend by the local authority on Enniscorthy town – would you support a concerted effort to have the County Council develop a substantial car park for Enniscorthy town centre?
4. Traffic flow – would you campaign to have a full test of the new traffic flow plan for a number of days before there is a commitment to permanently altering how traffic moves through the town?
5. Enniscorthy needs an injection of new shops – Would you work to help
create incentives which would make it more attractive for retail outlets to bring an extra branch to Enniscorthy?
6. Enniscorthy is suffering. Proof: Census 2022 which shows increased poverty and deprivation in Enniscorthy since 2016 (with 3 Enniscorthy TDs)…CSO 2016 shows Enniscorthy has 2nd lowest median income of towns nationally with Enniscorthy marginally above Longford. Can you Pledge to work on delivering quality jobs for our town?
Cllr Cathal Byrne:
I am happy to reply to your queries as a candidate for Dáil Éireann but also someone who is both an elected County Councillor and also operates a small business in the town centre.
I think Enniscorthy Town is crying out for new investment. I think we need to revitalise our town and ensure that it can reach its full potential through a combination of Wexford County Council, state agencies and private businesses working together in partnership. The Enniscorthy Flood Defence Scheme must be delivered without further delays.
My priorities for business in Enniscorthy include ensuring that the town is in a strong position to ensure that it can benefit directly from Government grants for regeneration such as the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF).
As Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy in 2021, I pushed for and secured the agreement of the Council to purchase the Murphy Floods site. I remain of the view that the potential of this site must be maximised as part of the regeneration of Enniscorthy town centre. My colleague Cllr Pat Kehoe and myself voted at the last Council meeting to maximise the temporary car parking on the site until such time as it is developed as a large retail space but unfortunately we lost this vote in favour of some of the site being used as a public realm.
Cllr Bridin Murphy:
1. Car Parking in any business town with close proximity to shops is essential. Roughly 25 spaces were lost about 30 years ago in the Market Square to make way for the concrete area surrounding the monument. Templeshannon also lost a a huge open area where the Portsmouth Arms was located. This was used for public car parking and businesses.
2. I believe the council should review the plan regarding mobility and access given the topography of the town.
3. A central car park near shops is key to any business. Once an open area is built on it is gone forever.
4. Traffic flow testing is essential and should be facilitated.
5. All town centres in general need rejuvenation and this has to be incentivised. Derelict sites need to be cleared and fully redeveloped. There are huge opportunities also to create living spaces in town centres with realistic investment from the government. This can be part of our housing solution in central areas, instead of empty spaces above shops.
Matt Ronan, Enniscorthy Business Association, seeking answers.
6. If elected as a Fine Gael TD I will use all my influence to fight for Enniscorthy and all rural communities in Co. Wexford for employment and enterprise to be developed.
Verona Murphy TD
1. A loss of 80/90 parking spaces in the town centre will have a negative effect.
2. Enniscorthy is either uphill or downhill. This has to be taken into account regarding our elderly and people with reduced mobility.
3. A substantial car park is a "must" for Enniscorthy town centre.
4. Traffic flow test would be a sensible approach.
5. I would certainly work to facilitate new retail coming to Enniscorthy.
6. I will do all in my power to deliver quality jobs for Enniscorthy area
Peadar McDonald, Green Party
1. I believe there is spare capacity nearby in existing public and private car parks (815 off-street spaces), within 10 minutes walk of Market Square to help compensate for the
loss of 60-80 town centre parking spaces. While this may involve a short walk to the town centre, it should not have a negative effect on the town centre after much of the traffic is removed. Shopping and leisure experience in many towns usually improves after the pedestrianisation of busy streets.
2. Improved access to the town centre for elderly people and for people with reduced mobility will be facilitated in the town centre first plan. The provision of two bus stops in the town centre will assist all people to access this area more easily, subject to the introduction of more frequent Local Link buses and bus routes within Enniscorthy urban and rural areas.
3. Shuttle bus services will help to reduce the need for car parking in the town centre, in accordance with Green Party policy to prioritise more public transport. Constant traffic close to an attractive shopping, tourist or amenity area, is not the most relaxing or healthy combination I believe. There is a large vacant parking area at the County Wexford Showgrounds / Greyhound Stadium within a 5-minute walk from Market Square, which could be upgraded and utilised if needed.
4. I would support the introduction of the new traffic flow plan on a trial basis over several weeks if necessary, to assess the full impacts of altering traffic routes. However the level of works required to fully implement the new plan may prevent short term testing.
5. Yes I would help to create incentives to attract retail outlets that are successful in similar size and centrally located towns.
6. If elected as a Green Party representative, I will work with all local representatives and businesses to deliver more quality jobs for Enniscorthy. This is a major challenge which needs everyone involved to work together. n
Guest Speaker Brian Cleary at the end of year remembrance event on Vinegar Hill dedicated to all those who perished during the 1798 Rebellion in Enniscorthy. Boolavogue being sung on Vinegar Hill.
Above: The young remembering all those who perished during the 1798 Rebellion in Enniscorthy.
Right: The Ballindaggin Pipe Band who led the parade.
Above left: Guest Speaker Jacqui Hynes.
Above right: The parade.
Left: Historian Sean MacPhilibin.
Right: The next generation of pikemen and pikewomen.
Below left: Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Aidan Browne addresses the attendees. Below right: Prayers at the wreath-laying ceremony.
Bottom left: The parade. Bottom right: The wreathlaying ceremony.
The plight of the homeless
AS THE WINTER BEGINS TO BITE, THE PLIGHT OF THE HOMELESS IN CO. WEXFORD AND NATIONALLY TAKES ON A GREATER URGENCY...
One of our regular readers, Joe Neal from Castlebridge, believes that when it comes to homelessness there are too many agencies involved – gardaí, social services, councillors, county manager, housing department, charities, etc which leads to inaction. Only emergency legislation from government can help these people, Joe says.
He writes:
The problem of homelessness in Wexford has become a stain on our county. For too long now these poor people have been neglected by central government. It is not right that charities should be left to cope while politicians stand aside from this worrying social issue. Emergency accommodation should be made available by converting vacant commercial or state properties and gardai and social workers employed throughout the nights to accompany homeless sleepers to safe beds. After all, we house migrants in hotels as a matter of course. So taxpayers take the strain –but we need a government committed to an immediate solution.
It is argued that these unfortunate people cannot be helped because they are not even on any housing list. Then cannot social workers be paid to visit each rough sleeper and help him or her to fill out an application with their address care of the local social services department? It is argued that non-nationals cannot be helped in this way. So why not pass emergency legislation to allow temporary help at least? Nothing is beyond possibility. Where there's a will, there's a
way. Any politician who does not believe this does not deserve anybody's vote. I am constantly embarassed and ashamed by comments from visitors to Wexford who are rightly appalled by the sight of people bedding down in our streets – even in the entrance to the Bank of Ireland, for heaven's sake! People in Wexford, me included, try to help in small ways but this is a national issue and should be treated as such –not left to charities, fine as they are. n
Safe Routes to School
James Browne TD has confirmed that four County Wexford schools are to be included in the third round of the Safe Routes to School Programme.
Commenting on the news, James Browne outlined that “Enniscorthy Community College, Ballaghkeene NS, Kiltealy NS and St. Patrick’s NS Ballyroebuck have all been included by the NTA for the third round of the Safe Routes to School Programme.
“This is a fantastic government initiative. It makes a massive difference to communities. Now that these four County Wexford schools are included in the programme, the school locations will be assessed for appropriate school zone improvements to highlight the school’s presence, encourage traffic to slow down, and increase active travel among school pupils.
“I’m delighted that these four schools have been selected.
Ballaghkeene NS principal Mr Darren Nolan has met with myself and the Wexford County Council engineer Ms Joanne Kehoe. Enniscorthy Community College caretaker and fellow Fianna Fáil public representative Cllr Aidan Browne has regularly discussed the need for road safety improvement works near the school. This will make a massive difference to the roads and footpaths in Kiltealy and Ballyroebuck too.
“These four new projects will be delivered as part of the third round of the Safe Routes to Schools programme. The works assessed typically cost between €50,000 to €380,000 depending on complexity. The works will be funded from the NTA’s active travel funding allocation. Timelines for delivery also depend on several factors, including timelines for public consultation and securing planning consent. Timing construction periods to reduce school disturbance is also considered. The works are also subject to annual government budget allocations for active travel to Wexford County Council.” n
Local success at Garda National Youth Awards
Enniscorthy Youthreach.
An Garda Síochána presented 24 Garda National Youth Awards at this year’s national ceremony on 16th November 2024. The awards recognise exceptional young people aged 13-21 who have positively contributed to their community. At this year’s ceremony, Co. Wexford was well represented among the winners by the Enniscorthy Youthreach group and by John Beary.
John Beary of Wexford received a Garda Youth Award in recognition of his volunteer work as a first aid responder while also navigating his own diagnosis of MELAS syndrome.
Reach Ability’s new social media
Make sure to check out the Reach Ability (formerly CWCW) social media platforms to see all the incredible work being done by Reach Ability in its three amazing social enterprises which not only offer unique services but also play a vital role in supporting Reach Ability's mission to empower individuals with disabilities...
1. Kilcannon Garden Centre & Restaurant: Your one-stop shop for all your gardening needs, complemented by a delightful restaurant serving delicious home-cooked meals. Enjoy the beauty of nature while making a difference!
2. Astro Active: Experience top-notch sports facilities and an
astro pitch that welcomes everyone! Whether you're a sports enthusiast or looking to try something new, this centre promotes fitness and fun for all.
3. Bellefield Design: Need custom framing? Look no further! This bespoke picture framing service offers hand-crafted solutions to showcase your cherished memories while supporting a great cause.
By choosing these enterprises you’re not just getting quality services but you’re shopping local, supporting an inclusive community, and contributing to a brighter future for those with disabilities.
Reach Ability – at the heart of Enniscorthy! n
Dine Out and Donate this December at Neville Park Hotels
The Neville Park Hotel Group has announced its Christmas Community Donation Initiative, aimed at supporting charities selected by its dedicated em ployees.
Throughout December, every meal purchased at any of the Neville Park Hotel Group’s restaurants, including at Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise, Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy and Crown Quarter in Wexford Town, will see €1 do nated to a charity chosen by the employees of each property.
At Midlands Park Hotel, guests dining at Kelly’s Steakhouse or the bistro-style Charter Bar & Eatery will help raise funds for Friends of Suicide Loss, an organisation which offers support services to those affected by suicide in Dublin and beyond.
Meanwhile, at the Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy, diners at the Prom Bar and Alamo Steakhouse will be supporting Futures In Mind (formerly Talk To Tom), a local charity dedicated to suicide prevention, mental health awareness and bereavement supports.
Patrons of Jasper’s Restaurant at the Crown Quarter in Wexford Town will contribute to the Hope Cancer Support Centre, which provides vital services to people throughout Wexford whose lives have been changed by a cancer diagnosis.
While the team at Newtown Park Hotel, formerly the Maldron Hotel Wexford and the most recent addition to Neville Park Hotel Group’s portfolio of properties, is fundraising in aid of The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul this year, they look forward to participating in the Christmas Community Donation initiative in 2025.
Commenting on the news, Colm Neville from the Neville Park Hotel Group said, “We are delighted to launch this programme supporting charities that are
close to the hearts of our employees. It reflects our commitment as a group to giving back to our communities, through listening to what’s important to our team and backing charities they're passionate
about. We look forward to welcoming guests to our restaurants throughout December where they can dine with the knowledge that the meals they’re enjoying are contributing to meaningful causes.” n
L-R: Jaspers at Crown Quarter Wexford. The Alamo Steakhouse at Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy.
The end of an era in Enniscorthy
The sale of the Manse in Enniscorthy was completed at the end of November 2024, at which stage it became a private property, and the parish wishes the new owners every blessing in their new home and many happy years of life there.
The parish in a recent newsletter says, "We move forward into a new chapter in
the life of our parish and pastoral area and we thank the clergy of the diocese and our parishioners for their support... and we welcome the new challengers that the future will bring."
A new parish office will open soon at No.1 Irish Street.
The residence of the priests will be at St Senan's Presbytery, Templeshannon.
The office phone number and email will remain the same. The emergency number to contact a priest also remains unchanged – 087 271 0478.
The parish apologises for any inconvenience these necessary changes will cause and thanks all parishioners for their patience and understanding during this transition. n
Enniscorthy losing out to Wexford
Two retail closures on Rafter Street, Enniscorthy, in recent weeks have been followed by the closure of the elegant Bell Heather Home & Gifts shop on Castle Hill, as it has decided to concentrate on its Wexford town branch at 79 North Main Street.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bellheatherinteriors3 n
"Empowering Families: Addressing the CDNT Crisis"
An "Empowering Families: Addressing the CDNT Crisis" forum was held in The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, on 16th November 2024, to highlight the crisis in the CDNT (Children's Disability Network Team) service. According to the HSE: "CDNT provides services for children with disabilities. Each team member specialises in different areas of child development. They work together to support children with complex needs." But as the forum highlighted, all is not well in the CDNT service.
The forum was a powerful platform hearing heartbreaking stories from families affected by the CDNT crisis, and attendees discussed actionable strategies to address the challenges.
Our photos capture some key moments in the forum, the spirit of the gathering, and the local public representatives and election candidates who attended: Johnny Mythen TD, Cllr George Lawlor, Michelle O'Neill, and Verona Murphy TD.
Bernard Mulvaney sent a recorded submission from Access For All Ireland.
F.U.S.S. Ireland (Families Unite for Services and Support) also sent in a submission.
Organisations who attended included Care Champions, Cottage Autism Network, and FDYS Wexford.
The organisers say that, though invited to participate in the discussions and strategies, the HSE did not respond to any invitations.
A lot of documentation was produced for, and discussed at, the gathering including various solutions and strategies, proposed legislative changes, and submissions and statements from participating organisations.
Attendees and organisers left the forum with a sense of inspired hope and plans for larger meetings in the future. Together, they aim to stand as a united force to drive meaningful change.
The Slaney News would like to thank the Enniscorthy organisers Jamie Williams and Rachel Larkin, and Sinead Aylward, and the Phoenix Rising Network for the kind invite. Phoenix Rising does a lot of advocacy nationally for people with disabilities and their families and writing to policy-makers and other officials consistently on behalf of the disability and caring community. The Phoenix Rising Network is proud to be part of the Enniscorthy community and to be one of the leading organisations sparking change for carers and people with disabilities in Ireland.
Jaimie Williams tells us, “We are finished (as carers) letting barriers get in our way advocating for ourselves as a community and we have decided to come together nationally as a large group of organisations, carers, advocates, family reps and families to unite for our rights in the new year.” The Slaney News wishes them well in their advocacy for hugely improved CDNT services for their children. n
Jaimie Williams
L-R: Verona Murphy TD, Johnny Mythen TD, Cllr Geoprge Lawlor, Jaimie Williams and Michelle O’Neill.
The cover of The Phoenix Rising Network presentation outlining strategies and solutions for the CDNT staffing crisis.
Rachel Larkin
A regular series by the team at Enniscorthy East Community Development
This article was written just prior to the recent General Election...
As per the recent local elections, candidates and their teams will most likely be knocking on your door and asking for that all important No.1 Vote. Residents of the East side of Enniscorthy are all too familiar with this situation –countless promises have been made regarding Templeshannon, yet almost none have been fulfilled.
For this election, we are asking residents to be a bit more critical of what candidates are saying and promising. We want you to highlight the growing problems in the area and ask why Templeshannon, as a part of Enniscorthy, has been allowed deteriorate from disadvantaged to very disadvantaged and following the most recent census, to ‘extremely disadvantaged’.
For a long number of years there has been virtually no intervention at National or Local Government level, indicating basically that Templeshannon and its people don’t really matter.
When political candidates canvass for votes in disadvantaged areas like Enniscorthy East, residents have a valuable opportunity to communicate their priorities, concerns, and expectations. Here’s some suggestions and recom-
mendations around what local residents in our areas could say:
Highlight Local Issues: Residents should focus on specific challenges their community faces, such as lack of access to quality healthcare, housing, education, or employment opportunities. It's important to ask candidates how they plan to address these issues. Example: "What is your plan to improve access to healthcare, community safety, public transport, and affordable housing in our community?"
Demand Accountability: Ask candidates about their track record on key issues. Request specific commitments rather than vague promises.
Request Transparency and Regular Engagement: Ask how the candidate will keep the community informed and involved after the election. Example: "How will you keep the lines of communication open with our community after the election?"
Talk About Equality: Residents should emphasise the need for equitable policies that address obvious inequalities. Example: “Why is it that there has been virtually no investment on this side of the bridge for over 30 years now?” How will your policies ensure that marginalised communities like ours get fair opportunities and resources?"
Discuss Safety and Infrastructure:
Many disadvantaged areas suffer from poor infrastructure, lack of safety, and limited public services. Residents should ask how the candidate intends to improve the local infrastructure and ensure community safety. Example: "What investments will you make in public services and infrastructure, like safe roads and public parks?"
Push for Job Opportunities and Education: Address concerns about economic development, job creation, and education. Example: "How is it that we have no large retail outlets located in Templeshannon?” or, “How do you plan to create more job opportunities and improve educational and training facilities in our area?"
As you well know, politicians are well known for their ability to talk endlessly while not actually saying anything. Don’t be taken in by all the words, this is your turn to speak about the things that affect you on an everyday basis here in Enniscorthy East.
Stick to your guns and ask the candidates what is their plan for the Templeshannon area and its unique problems? See have they thought about this or is it just the usual political mumbo jumbo designed to get them elected for another four years. n
THE ENNISCORTHY EAST COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION IS FOCUSING ON THE FOLLOWING KEY AREAS
Bowling at the Community Centre
TEMPLESHANNON NEWSLETTER - EDITION 2 NOVEMBER 2024
ENNISCORTHY EAST COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Welcome to this Christmas edition of the ‘View from the Hill’ Newsletter.
In this edition there are two important notices. Just below is an open invitation to our Christmas Party for all retired persons in the Templeshannon area. Admission to this lovely pre-Christmas event is free, but you do have to confirm your place by calling 053 9237511 - the number on the invitation (9-5pm).
On the back page there is another invitation, this time from the Enniscorthy Male Voice Choir, based in the Community Centre. They are holding their first ever public Concert in the Presentation Arts Centre on Saturday December 7th @
8.00pm. Supported by the excellent St. Senan’s Parish Choir, it should be a great evening’s entertainment. Tickets are €10 with all funds going to the Templeshannon Community Development Fund. Tickets are available from the Parish Office or the Community Centre.
On behalf of all the Community Team, we wish all residents of the area a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and we look forward to more positive developments in 2025.
Check us out on Facebook: Enniscorthy East Community Development.
THE ENNISCORTHY EAST COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION IS FOCUSING ON THE FOLLOWING KEY AREAS
Bowling at the Community Centre
Congratulations to our bowls team ‘the Scalders’ on their recent success in the Wexford League. They had a great win in the New Ross Astroturf centre recently and celebrated winning their trophy back at the Community Centre.
are team members: Andrew Jory, Jimmy Murphy, Tom Murphy, and Vinny O’Brien.
Indoor bowls at the centre is going from strength to strength and the club is currently looking for new members. If you are interested in a relaxing and fun activity, then come along and join in, they meet every Tuesday and Friday mornings at 11.00am
For more info contact the Community Centre on 053 9237511 or Shay Dobbs on 087 1412642. The Grotto Work continues at the Grotto on Father Cullen’s Terrace. Passing by you may have noticed a blaze of autumn colours from the new pots which were all replanted during the summer. Recently we have cut back some creepers and other vegetation from the walls and have exposed some of the original stonework.
We believe there is sufficient space at the Grotto for the addition of a small sensory garden, and we think this would be a great addition to the area. Pupils from the Autism Unit at St. Senan’s Primary school are frequent visitors to the Grotto and enjoy the quietness there. We would like to improve the facilities there for all those who visit this little haven in the middle of the parish.
New Templeshannon Women’s Group
We are delighted to announce the formation of a new women’s group for our area. Some initial meetings have taken place and the group have discussed possible activities for the coming months.
These include Flower Arranging, Walking group, Jewellery / Arts & Crafts, Mindfulness, Dance / Exercise classes, Sewing / Knitting / Crochet, Book Club and much more. If you are interested in participating in this group then you would be most welcome. The group meets every Monday morning at the Community Centre at 11.00am. For more information contact Kathleen Doran 086 3649319, Kate Kenny 087 974 9661, or Julie Whelan 087 135 9544. ”
Congratulations to our bowls team ‘the Scalders’ on their recent success in the Wexford League. They had a great win in the New Ross Astroturf centre recently and celebrated winning their trophy back at the Community Centre.
Pictured are team members: Andrew Jory, Jimmy Murphy, Tom Murphy, and Vinny O’Brien. Indoor bowls at the centre is going from strength to strength and the club is currently looking for new members. If you are interested in a relaxing and fun activity, then come along and join in, they meet every Tuesday and Friday mornings at 11.00am
For more info contact the Community Centre on 053 9237511 or Shay Dobbs on 087 1412642.
The Grotto Work continues at the Grotto on Father Cullen’s Terrace. Passing by you may have noticed a blaze of autumn colours from the new pots which were all replanted during the summer. Recently we have cut back some creepers and other vegetation from the walls and have exposed some of the original stonework.
“
The Tea on the Green event at Gimont Avenue and Cluain Dara hosted by Creative Places and Wexford County Council was a great success. There was a great turnout for the event and we were blessed with a beautiful sunny day in September. The children from the area were treated with lots of fun activities including crafts and drama workshops, and the participation of the Emergency Services proved to be very popular with the kids also. Of course, no sunny outdoor event would be complete without
We believe there is sufficient space at the Grotto for the addition of a small sensory garden, and we think this would be a great addition to the area. Pupils from the Autism Unit at St. Senan’s Primary school are frequent visitors to the Grotto and enjoy the quietness there. We would like to improve the facilities there for all those who visit this little haven in the middle of the parish.
New Templeshannon Women’s Group
We are delighted to announce the formation of a new women’s group for our area. Some initial meetings have taken place and the group have discussed possible activities for the coming months.
These include Flower Arranging, Walking group, Jewellery / Arts & Crafts, Mindfulness, Dance / Exercise classes, Sewing / Knitting / Crochet, Book Club and much more. If you are interested in participating in this group then you would be most welcome. The group meets every Monday morning at the Community Centre at 11.00am. For more information contact Kathleen Doran 086 3649319, Kate Kenny 087 974 9661, or Julie Whelan 087 135 9544. ”
a refreshing ‘99’ and the Ice Cream Van was a big hit with the children and the adults alike.
”
Newsletter is supported by Wexford County Council and the Sláintecare Healthy Communities Programme.
Artist Anne Manning at the Clay workshops on the day with participant Tishe Odunlami
TEA ON THE GREEN – GIMONT AVENUE & CLUAIN DARA
Pictured
Sustainable Enniscorthy
A monthly column
A member of the local Sustainable Enniscorthy group looks at some of the climate-related hazards we face as emissions continue to rise.
Here at Sustainable Enniscorthy, our vision “is to foster a thriving community that respects and preserves the natural beauty of our surroundings, while promoting sustainable practices in every aspect of our daily lives”. To that end, we are generally quite solutions focused, however this month we will take a look at some of the climate-related hazards we face as emissions continue to rise and scientists at the recent COP29 in Baku report that our ambition to prevent global warming going above 1.5 degrees looks increasingly unattainable.
According to the EPA’s Climate Change in the Irish Mind (2023-2024) study, 88% of Irish people think that climate change is affecting the weather in Ireland, while 75% think extreme weather poses either a ‘high’ or ‘moderate’ risk to their community over the next 10 years. Here in Wexford, efforts have been made to better understand these risks and the Climate Change Risk Assessment Report for the county is available through the Wexford County Council’s website and provides an outline of current and future risks posed by the increasingly volatile weather patterns we are likely to endure on a more frequent basis.
The hazards outlined for Wexford include flooding (7 incidents recorded in last 30 years), as well severe precipitation (18 events recorded in last 30 years), severe
windstorms (27 events in the last 30 years), heatwaves (5 heatwaves recorded in the last 30 years), and droughts (5 droughts recorded in the last 30 years).
Recent examples of the devasting impacts include the flooding in Valencia, which saw 300-500mm (12-20 inches) of rain fall 8 hours in some parts of the province, with the tragic loss of 224 lives. Here in Ireland we were thankful that no one was killed when Storm Bert hit, however at its peak 60,000 homes and businesses were left without power and over a hundred roads were impassable, with clean-up costs running into the millions, and being sorely felt in communities from Killybegs to Cork.
The EPA’s Climate Opinions Map shows that 74% of people in Wexford think Climate Action will improve Ireland’s quality of life, matching the national average. Addressing the hazard of flooding is not simple as multiple factors are involved not just more severe rainfall, but also development in flood plains, more intensive agriculture practices, removing of woodland and wetland areas, all contribute to speeding up the flow of water.
To counteract these effects, ‘Natural Flood Management’ (NFM) offers a set of solutions which can be tailored to local landscapes, taking the hydrological characteristics into account. NFM can include rewetting of
If you would like to get involved in Sustainable Enniscorthy or be kept informed of our initiatives, please follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com www.sustainableenniscorthy.com Contact us to get involved!
areas, creation of flood attenuation ponds, replanting woodlands and other measures that slow the flow of water across the landscape to alleviate the impacts of flash flooding, and potentially at lower costs than traditional methods. Examples of this approach being successfully applied include North Yorkshire’s ‘Slow the Flow’ Project, the Netherland’s ‘Room for the River’ Project and Corkagh Park, Clondalkin.
These solutions require participation of multiple sectors across the community and by working together, we can all be much safer as we adapt to our changing climate.
LIST OF LINKS:
Sustainable Enniscorthyhttps://www.sustainableenniscorthy.com/about.html COP29 in Bakuhttps://unfccc.int/cop29
Climate Change in the Irish Mindhttps://www.epa.ie/publications/monitoring—assessment/climate-change/climate-change-in-the-irish-mindwave-2-report-1.php
300-500mm (12-20 inches) of rain fall 8 hourshttps://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153533/valencia-floods
Tragic loss of 224 liveshttps://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/nov/14/almosthalf-of-spains-flood-victims-were-over-70-figuresshow#:~:text=A%20total%20of%20224%20people,the%2 0largest%20losses%20of%20life
60,000 homes and businesses were left without powerhttps://www.independent.ie/irish-news/storm-bert-cleanup-to-cost-millions-as-thousands-of-premises-remain-without-power-and-wind-warnings-still-in-place-for-several-cou nties/a1782501490.html
Climate Opinions Maphttps://www.epa.ie/our-services/monitoring— assessment/climate-change/climate-opinion-maps/ ‘Natural Flood Management’ (NFM) - https://www.friendsoftheearth.ie/assets/files/pdf/natural_flood_management_a_study_for_friends_of_the_earth_february_2017.pdf potentially at lower costs than traditional methodshttps://meetingorganizer.copernicus.org/EGU2018/EGU20 18-19581.pdf
Slow the Flow’ Projecthttps://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/research/slowing-theflow-at-pickering/slowing-the-flow-at-pickering-about-theproject/ Room for the River’https://www.dutchwatersector.com/news/room-for-theriver-programme n
Example of Natural Flood Management.
A mobility strategy for Enniscorthy
THE HIGH-POWERED UCD-TCD CONUNDRUM RESEARCH TEAM LAUNCHED ITS SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY MOBILITY STRATEGY FOR ENNISCORTHY, ON 7TH NOVEMBER, IN THE PRESENTATION ARTS CENTRE, ENNISCORTHY. THE EVENT WAS A PUBLIC LAUNCH AND WAS OPEN TO EVERYONE TO ATTEND.
The strategy outlines the key challenges and opportunities identified by participating stakeholders, and presents the CONUNDRUM team’s recommended actions for achieving a sustainable mobility future for Enniscorthy.
The list of solutions is reproduced below and the full online report can be read here: https://citiesgovernancesustainability.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Conundrum-Strategy-MasterFA-Digital.pdf
And a video of the launch can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M11Xlm9KDnQ n
Launch of the community-led mobility strategy for Enniscorthy
The CONUNDRUM research team based at University College Dublin and Trinity College Dublin, in collaboration with our partner TASC, are delighted to announce this launch. The strategy is the outcome of workshops, focus groups and interviews with local communities and other stakeholders in Enniscorthy since November 2023.
The strategy records the challenges and opportunities related to mobility experienced by different stakeholders in Ennsicorthy. It presents multiple solutions and recommended actions for achieving sustainable mobility futures in Enniscorthy. It is a strategy by the community, for the community to help shape real change.
Launch of the WorkAbility Programme
On the 1st November 2024, Wexford Local Development (WLD) held an event in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, to mark the official launch of the Wexford WorkAbility Inclusive Pathways to Employment Programme. WorkAbility is a National Programme funded by the government through the Dept of Social Protection and is cofunded by the EU. WLD was successful in securing funding of almost €1 million earlier this year for a 5-year period up to the end of 2028 to deliver this programme in Co. Wexford. Over 150 people attended on the day to celebrate the official launch of the programme.
The Wexford WorkAbility programme will deliver a range of tailor-made employment and training supports for young people with an intellectual disability that provide progressive pathways to employment. WLD’s programme aims to provide supports to up to 175 young people over the course of the programme, with 30 employers and other stakeholders working and supporting people with a disability.
Speaking at the launch of the programme, Michael Wall, Chairperson of Wexford Local Development, said, “We are delighted to be involved in this new programme... The support from other dis-
ability organisations and partners is critical to the success of the programme and we look forward to the continued collaboration between WLD and these partner organisations so we can continue to provide opportunities for our participants and to improve their quality of life.”
Brendan Ennis, CEO of Wexford Enterprise Association, speaking at the launch, shared his experience of employing people with a disability in his organisation’s Data Group and of the positive experiences for staff and the company of having a disability-inclusive workplace. Brendan stated that he does not see their disability but their ability and that receiving support from the WorkAbility programme will be beneficial for employers
in creating more inclusive workplaces and ensuring people with a disability are given an opportunity to become a valued member of a team in the workplace. He encouraged employers to consider making their workplaces more inclusive and employing people with a disability highlighting its many benefits, and to work with organisations such as WLD and Employability Wexford to make this a reality.
A video was showcased at the launch featuring many of the young people who have already participated on the programme, outlining their experiences to date of participating on the programme.
Michael Wall concluded the event with a presentation of certificates to 35 participants to acknowledge their achievements and training to date on the programme.
For more information about Wexford Local Development and the WorkAbility Programme visit https: www.wld.ie
To get involved in the programme, contact: WorkAbility Programme, Wexford Local Development, 5 Slaney Place, Enniscorthy, Wexford, Y21FE81.
The WorkAbility Employment Support Officers can be contacted by email or phone: Sarah – sarahbolger@wld.ie and Róisín –rmccarthy@wld.ie. Tel: 053 9155864. n
Above left, L-R: Michael Wall (Chairperson, WLD), Aoife Shortall (WorkAbility participant), Róisín McCarthy (WorkAbility Employment Support Officer), John Kehoe (WorkAbility participant), Sarah Bolger (Workability Co-ordinator), Brendan Ennis (CEO, Wexford Enterprise Association), Cllr Leonard Kelly.
Above right: Trevor Jacob (CEO, Reach Ability), Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Brian Kehoe (CEO, Wexford Local Development).
L-R: Roisin McCarthy (WorkAbility Employment Support Officer), Angela Wall (WorkAbility participant), Sarah Bolger (Workability Co-ordinator).
Michael Wall, Chairperson of Wexford Local Development.
Above: WorkAbility participants receiving their certificates from Michael Wall (Chairperson, WLD), at the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on 1st November 2024.
Is there no end to it?
Another recent
case of illegal dumping, this time at Turret Rocks, Enniscorthy, an area of outstanding natural beauty.
THE SUBTEXTS AND UNDERTONES OF AN ELECTION COUNT
An election count is an acquired taste. Most attending as observers are either political hacks or family members of the candidates. Historically it resembles a bustling cattle mart on steroids. This election was much more sanitised with less tickets available citing fire and health and safety reasons. The flipside is that it sucks the atmosphere out of the proceedings. Despite this there are many hours of downtime that you can catch up with people across the political divide and gain an insight into what people are really thinking.
Straight off the bat, it was clear after the tally who was going to be elected. To keep an interest in the proceedings we speculated would the transfers change the order they would be elected in. So what seemed to be on people’s minds? The frustration within Fine Gael supporters over the letter controversy was palpable. This was such a rookie mistake. Letters like this in the dying days of a campaign are not new but usually it explodes after the election and also in-house. The experi enced campaigners don’t leave a paper trail and use the telephone to do that type of dark arts. It is clear it was not handled well on either side and they are convinced that it cost them a seat.
I feel that it was not Cathal Byrne’s time because one could make a case that George Lawlor’s stars were aligning after many years waiting in the wings as Brendan Howlin’s wing man. Three out of four seats in Enniscorthy was unrealistic one would have thought.
The question about Verona Murphy was not if she was going to be elected but was she going to top the poll and be
TOWN TALK
WITH KEITH DOYLE
elected on the first count. This was made much easier by Fianna Fáil’s decision to not add Michael Sheehan on to the ticket. The strategy backfired as it allowed Verona to clean out large swathes of Fianna Fáil votes in New Ross town. That certainly helped her in
James Browne and Fianna Fáil coveted topping the poll and first past the post to make a statement. As a Junior Minister, it wouldn’t be any harm in a quest to turn that into a senior role. It did not go unnoticed that the Fianna Fáil camp were eerily silent when Murphy was declared elected with scarcely a polite clap to be seen. In contrast, Fianna Fáil applauded Labour’s declaration like an All-Ireland win. This seems to show where the local F.F. organisation’s preference for a government partner lies. If the talks veer towards the Independents, I am sure Verona Murphy will be seeking a post and it is safe to suggest that it is unlikely that Wexford will be rewarded with two. Johnny Mythen retained his seat with style and panache with a dignified and humbling acceptance speech.
I cannot conclude this article without mentioning my friend and former colleague Jackser Owens. Some have commented that he should not have run and with his vote count showing that he was never in the running for a seat. I briefly spoke with Jackser after the tally and when he was walking away a thought popped into my head. I likened Jackser to a veteran handicap steeplechaser. A horse penalised with 12 stone and at the top of the weights. One would consider throwing him into the Grand National. This was Jackser Owen’s Grand National. At 70 years old and 25 years of service and a former Chairman of Enniscorthy Town Council, he has a lot to be proud about. He had the courage to pursue a dream. Well done to you Jackser for running and finishing your Grand National. No matter what anyone says you now have the bragging rights that you were a contender. n
Cllr Jackser Owens has “a lot to be proud about”.
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
Enniscorthy Toastmasters
The group meeets fortnightly on Tuesdays, September to June, in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy, at 8pm. All welcome! https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorthy-Toastmasters129333810455771 for updates. n
ENNISCORTHY TIDY TOWNS NEEDS YOU!
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers meet on Sunday mornings to collect litter and tidy up around the town. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed! So if you are sick of seeing rubbish on your road, street, estate or elsewhere in the community, please contact: 053 923 6518 or email enniscorthytt@gmail.com
Keep up to date on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown
Let's all help to make Enniscorthy cleaner and greener! n
And That’s a Wrap
Yes indeed, it’s all over bar the shouting and analysing. The election has come and gone and in the new fourseat Wexford constituency we have returned Verona Murphy, James Browne, Johnny Mythen and George Lawlor. Regardless of individual political beliefs, it has to be said that the people spoke fairly convincingly this time with little scramble for the last seat. The destination of all four seats was fairly obvious from the beginning of the count. Fine Gael supporters must feel very angry at the strategists within the party who really messed up here. Cathal Byrne, had he been the only candidate, would certainly have been in a fight for that last seat with George Lawlor. I am told that while Byrne naturally was most disappointed, he made a very generous and gracious speech at the close of the count which gives a measure of the man. I’m sure that Fine Gael will not make the same mistake again come 2029.
In Wicklow Wexford, the strangest concoction that this scribe ever saw, three Wexford candidates were successful. This was a fairly good possibility from the outset because of the weight of the population on the Wexford side of the border but it must leave a bad taste in the mouth of many Wicklow voters. One extreme comment which I heard was from a Wicklow voter who said that the con stituency had been gerrymandered to suit a particular candidate on the Wexford side. (Gerrymander by the way for those not familiar with the term came from the name of Elbridge Gerry who was a governor of Boston (he later became Vice President) who signed a law manipulating political boundaries to exclude those whom he knew wouldn’t vote for him). But again, the people have spoken and the result has to be accepted.
View from the Centre
A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond
Many candidates stood for election, in both constituencies, and failed to get elected. We owe them a vote of thanks, despite not voting for them electorally, because they make democracy work by giving us a choice. It takes massive courage to put your name on a ballot paper and then go around asking people to vote for you. Most of the public treat candidates with the utmost of respect
and those who don’t are not worth worrying about.
December Shopping
Most people will have a few euro to spend over Christmas. Hopefully, the majority will shop locally and if they prefer online will still purchase from local stores through their websites. In my experience there is very little that is not available within the boundaries of County Wexford.
It is important to remember that large online businesses are in most cases foreign entities which suck money out of the Irish and Wexford economy and make no contribution whatsoever to local employment or local services. There’s little to be gained by moaning that you can’t get anything you want locally if you don’t support the local retailer in the first place.
The same applies to smaller towns and villages where local pubs or other businesses close down. Usually then there is a local outcry but the reality is that the majority of those crying never crossed the threshold of the business before it closed. So, shop, eat and drink locally this year and help everybody in the long run.
And That’s a Wrap (Again)
This time it’s this column. Over the past thirteen and a half years I have enjoyed writing this monthly column and its predecessor “View from the Hill”. I hope that our readers have got some food for thought from the approximate 170,000 words written during that time. I want to thank Frank Corcoran for the privilege for allowing me this space and the editorial freedom to at times express views which clearly did not coincide with his own
So goodbye and take care n
“Cathal Byrne... made a very generous and gracious speech at the close of the count which gives a measure of the man.”
Politicians learn about Fight for Life of Brain Injury survivors
A row of County Wexford politicians stood silently and solemnly together to watch a short but powerful video in the ABI (Acquired Brain Injury) clubhouse around the back of the Applegreen service station, Rosslare Road, on the edge of Wexford town last month.
The first person in the video said in a slow, tortured, faltering voice: “I know I need help. I won’t be able to get through this on my own. I wish I could, but I can’t.”
Before his accident, he was able and articulate and his voice was fluent.
A young man in similarly faltering, stumbling voice, who ironed out each word he spoke said: “I can’t be running the Dublin Marathon for my 18th birthday. It’s like I’m running the marathon every day.”
And another: “I don’t know how I would have got back to life as quickly as I did without
ABI. I’d be lost without this place. I’d be lost without the likes of Alan and Alia. I’d be lost without them. I really would.”
The faces and voices were a sample of the people who sustain a brain injury in Ireland. Every day 52 people in Ireland sustain a brain injury that leaves them afflicted for life.
Just before the General Election, the County Wexford political candidates joined brain injury sufferers in the ABI clubhouse to watch the short video fea-
turing people with brain injury or stroke talking about how they try to cope with life and living. Around them were 52 individual art pieces to represent the 52 people a day who sustain a brain injury in Ireland.
The event was the launch of a campaign by Acquired Brain Injury Ireland to get support for sufferers. It is titled appropriately “Fight for our Lives”.
Football legend Paul McGrath is a wellknown supporter of ABI in Wexford.
Co. Wexford’s ABI services provide short to long term rehabilitation for up to five people with brain injury. The ABI clubhouse at Rosslare Road, Drinagh, provides rehabilitation to 32 clients per week.
Eye-catching ABI postcards asked the politicians and people in general to fight for the lives of survivors by raising awareness of the rehabilitation needs of people with a brain injury.
They asked them to advocate to provide funding for people with brain injury. Funds are needed to address the massive gaps and ‘postcode lottery’ for services. And they asked them to make Acquired Brain Injury Ireland financially sustainable so that they can continue to deliver in the community.
Ireland is obliged to uphold the rights of brain injury survivors under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Anyone who has survived the trauma of a brain injury or stroke should be able to get the support they need to rebuild their shattered lives and to cope with what is a life sentence.
– M.F.
Rosslare Tidy Towns volunteers clean up
Swarms of volunteers have been tidying up hedges and footpaths and roads around Rosslare Strand and getting rid of weeds and debris.
Leola O’Reilly, the well-known gardening expert in the area, urged her fellow volunteers in Rosslare Tidy Towns to cut back a bit, but not too much, mind perennials, and tidy up to get ready for Christmas and the spring.
Rosslare Tidy Towns volunteers working recently at the junction of the Grange Road and the Station Road were Leola O’Reilly, Ann Mahon, Liz Bent and Yvonne Lynch.
Helping them were Jack O’Reilly, Alan Goggins, Chapliyev Artem, and Joan Goggins.
– M.F.
Above right: Jack O'Reilly, Alan Goggins, Chapliyev Artem and Joan Goggins.
Right: Leola O'Reilly, Ann Mahon, Liz Bent and Yvonne Lynch
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Enniscorthy
y Mind your Mind: our
Contact: Séamus McCormack, Psychotherapist BA (Hons) Counselling & Psychotherapy
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.
Wexford community groups triumphed at the prestigious Pride of Place community awards held on 2nd November 2024 at a gala ceremony in the Hillgrove Hotel, Monaghan.
The Rocks Community Area, consisting of Maudlintown and surrounding areas, took first place in the Urban Neighbourhood category with judges particularly impressed with the strong partnerships and inclusivity of the area and their close working relation with Wexford Local Authority.
While Fethard on Sea Community Development Association took runner-up in the population 1000-2000 category, with judges noting they are a vibrant coastal community with commitment to the place where they live.
Councillor Garry Laffan, who attended the event, said, “I was delighted to be at the awards ceremony and celebrate the winning community groups achievements. It is a real mark of success for any community group to be recognised at national level and I want to wholeheartedly congratulate both groups on their many years of positive community activity.”
Director of Services with Wexford Co. Council Carolyne Godkin said, “I have had the pleasure of working with both of these impressive communities over many years. It is wonderful to see the positive
impact on their areas recognised through the Pride of Place awards. Each year this competition pitches the best communities on the whole island of Ireland against each other, with a judging panel visiting each of the shortlisted communities to see first-hand if they are truly delivering what they say they are. Both Fethard-on-Sea and the Rocks area made a very positive impression on the judges resulting in these awards and I have no doubt they will continue to deliver good things for their areas, supported not only by Wexford County Council but also by local business, the wider community and other government agencies.”
The awards, hosted by RTE’s Brendan McArdle, took place in front of 400 community volunteers from across Ireland and were delivered in partnership with Monaghan County Council.
Sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride of Place competition was initiated 22 years ago through a Co-Operation Ireland programme to acknowledge the work undertaken by volunteers and those involved in local community development. Since then the awards have grown into the largest competition recognising community development achievements on the island of Ireland. n
Pride of Place: Population 1000-2000 Category Runner-Up Fethard on Sea.
Pride of Place: Urban Neighbourhood Category Winner - The Rocks Community Area.
Dementia-specific activity lodge opens in Enniscorthy
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland opened its new Activity Lodge in Enniscorthy on Monday, 11th November, at Castle Gardens Retirement Village, Drumgoold, V21 EP11. The Lodge is a safe, engaging, and inclusive space where people living with Young Onset (under 65) and early-stage dementia can participate in a variety of therapeutic activities that enhance their quality of life.
The Activity Lodge is the completion of a project involving the Alzheimer Society of Ireland working in collaboration with the Wexford Dementia Alliance and the HSE, with support funding from the Dept. of Health.
The lodge offers a range of programmes including art therapy, music sessions, cognitive exercises, gardening, and social events tailored specifically for individuals with dementia. It also provides a space for carers to connect with each other and access support, ensuring a holistic approach to dementia care.
Local TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne said: “The Activity Lodge will give an opportunity for Co. Wexford people living with young onset dementia to access specific services and supports. The Activity Lodge model by The Alzheimer Society of Ireland has been co-led and co-designed by people living with dementia.”
Head of Operations and Community Engagement at The ASI, Siobhan O’Connor said: "Our goal with the Activity Lodge is to create a space where people living with dementia can thrive. This is not just about care; it's about providing meaningful opportunities for social engagement, creativity, and joy.”
Sally Veale, a Social Worker with the HSE’s Memory Assessment Support Service, also spoke at the ceremony, adding: “Every year, 10 to 15 people in Co. Wexford are diagnosed with young onset dementia. We have found there is a gap as to services that they could access, as many such resources are focused on older people... As research suggests, social connection, physical exercise, life-long learning, good nutrition and creativity can slow the progress of dementia. That is the focus of the Activity Lodge and it is a great boost to all of us to have it in operation.”
The opening of the lodge comes at a critical time, as the number of people living with dementia in Ireland is expected to rise significantly in the coming years. n
Above L-R: Cathryn O’Leary (Engagement Officer Alzheimer Society of Ireland), Sally Veale (Social Worker, HSE’s Memory Assessment Support Service), Cllr Jackser Owens, Siobhan O’Connor (Head of Operations and Community Engagement, Alzheimer Society of Ireland), Mayor of Wexford Cllr George Lawlor, Ann Twomey (Board Member, Alzheimer Society of Ireland), Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District Cllr Aidan Browne, Emer Finn (Occupational Therapist, HSE’s Wexford Memory Technology Resource Room team and Chair of Wexford Dementia Alliance) and Heather Musgrave (Regional Manager, Alzheimer Society of Ireland). Below: Phil O'Neill, Chris Fox, Fr Tom Dalton, Kitty O'Reilly, Margaret Murphy and Paula Atkinson. Pics: Jim Campbell.
Above L-R: Cathryn O’Leary (Engagement Officer Alzheimer Society of Ireland), Hugh O’Donoghue (Communications Manager, Alzheimer Society of Ireland), Garda Sgt Caroline O'Donnell, Garda Supt David O'Sullivan, Siobhan O’Connor ((Head of Operations and Community Engagement, Alzheimer Society of Ireland), Garda Sgt David Ferriter and Heather Musgrave (Regional Manager, Alzheimer Society of Ireland). Pic: Jim Campbell.
Wexford Community Calendar 2025 launched
The Community Team at Wexford County Council has launched its Community Calendar 2025. The team, which includes work under the brands of Wexford LCDC, Healthy Wexford, Sláintecare Healthy Communities, Wexford Age Friendly and Sports Active Wexford, gathered for a photo to mark the occasion, and to present the first calendar to Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Pip Breen.
Speaking about the calendar, Cllr Breen said, ‘Following the success of the first calendar in 2024, I’m delighted to see the Community Team continue this initiative. It is an innovative and engaging way to highlight the work of the Community Team, while also providing valuable signposts to supports and opportunities both for individuals and communities.’
Carolyne Godkin, Director of Services with responsibility for Community, said, ‘We are proud to share this, our second calendar, which showcases some of our work and celebrates our Wexford communities. The value of the Community Calendar has been recognised nationally, with the initiative being shortlisted for an Excellence in Local Government Communications Award.’
Top: Staff of Wexford Co. Council Community Department. Above L-R: Carolyne Godkin (Director of Services, Wexford Co. Council), Cllr Pip Breen (Cathaoirleach Wexford Co. Council), Dymphna O’Connor (Head of Community Department, Wexford Co. Council).
Dymphna O’Connor, Head of Community, said, ‘Whether you are interested in arts and culture, sports and recreation, education and training, or community development and support, you will find something in the calendar that suits your needs and interests.’
The calendar includes local photos and includes key messages and dates each month which the team hope will act as a further support to communities and citizens across County Wexford.
Calendars are available for free across County Wexford at local Municipal District Offices, at County Hall and through the Wexford Public Libraries. The Community Team are also distributing copies in the course of their work. n
Clodagh graduates with Masters
Nurse and Co. Wexford intermediate camogie player Clodagh Fitzhenry has just graduated from DCU with an MSc in Nursing (Chronic Disease Pathway).
Clodagh, who plays camogie for Duffry Rovers and football for Baile Dubh Tíre, works as a nurse with Wexford Residential Intellectual Disability Service. Her Master’s thesis focused on ways to monitor the oral hygiene of service users in the centre.
Clodagh says it was a challenge to fit her sporting and professional commitments with the demands of a Master’s. But she says the structure of the course, which was mostly online, and the flexibility of her work colleagues was a great help. n
WEXFORD HOMECARE COMPANY
ANNOUNCES 50 NEW JOBS...
Home Instead Wexford is looking to add 50 new CAREGivers to its team, which delivers essential services to older people in local communities throughout County Wexford.
Established in Ireland in 2005, Home Instead is the country’s largest private provider of home care services. It has 26 offices around Ireland, employing over 4,000 CAREGivers and caring for more than 8,000 clients.
The new jobs announcement coincides with the pending winter months which with shorter days and longer nights leads to an increase in illness and time spent alone among older adults.
“Social interaction and companionship
are crucial to maintaining good mental health, and helping to prevent cognitive decline particularly in older people and working as a CAREGiver in your local community provides a much-valued lifeline to those older adults who need it,” says Martin Murphy (pictured), General Manager at Home Instead Wexford.
Home Instead CAREGivers deliver a range of non-medical care services to older people, from companionship to specialised dementia and palliative care. In addition to helping keep older people safe and well, such care services can also facilitate early hospital discharge, or they can help prevent hospitalisations in the first place.
CAREGivers receive 20 hours free training and receive dedicated office support. They can work to flexible schedules and hours to suit their lifestyles and are recognised and rewarded for their work.
“The work is local, the jobs are sustainable and there are opportunities available in rural and urban areas around the county,” Martin continues. “We’re inviting applications from people with an interest in care to join us in helping older people age happily and remain in in their own homes, throughout this coming winter and beyond.“
To apply for a role with Home Instead Wexford, contact 053 918 4042 or visit HomeInstead.ie/Career-Options n
Clodagh Fitzhenry. Pic: Kyran O’Brien/DCU.
Wexford residents’ awards day
Wexford Co. Council tenants recognised for maintaining and improving communal spaces
right: Best overall estate in Co.
A representative from Oak Tree Heights, Castlebridge, with Cllr Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach of
Cllr Aidan Browne presents the ‘Best Planter’ award for the Enniscorthy district to Margaret Doyle, Gort na Silíní,
Cllr Aidan Browne, presents the ‘Most Improved’ award for the Enniscorthy district to Gimont / Cluain Dara, Enniscorthy, represented by Pat Carty. Above right: Cllr Aidan Browne presents the ‘Special Achievement’ award for the Enniscorthy district to a St Joseph’s, Marshalstown, representative.
Municipal District, presents the ‘Best Garden’ award for the Gorey Kilmuckridge district to Sinead and
Greenwood
centre: Cllr Oliver Walsh presents the ‘Best Planter’ award for the Gorey Kilmuckridge district to a representative for Mick Dempsey, St Joseph’s Terrace, Ballymurn. Above right: Cllr Oliver Walsh presents the ‘Most Improved Estate’ award for the Gorey Kilmuckridge district to Mayview Park, Oulart. Below left: Cllr Oliver Walsh presents the ‘Best Estate’ award for the Gorey Kilmuckridge district to Croghan, Coolgreaney. Below centre: Cllr Bridin Murphy, Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District, presents the ‘Best Biodiversity’ award for the New Ross district to Beech View, Newbawn. Below right: Cllr Bridin Murphy presents the ‘Best Planter’ award for the New Ross district to Mountain View, Rathnure.
Above left: Cllr Oliver Walsh, Cathaoirleach of Gorey Kilmuckridge
Siobhan O’Leary,
Avenue, Kilmuckridge. Above
Top
Wexford:
Enniscorthy Municipal District. Above left:
Enniscorthy. Above centre:
On 30th October 2024, Wexford Co. Council held its Residents Awards event in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, where attendees enjoyed a prizegiving ceremony as well as children’s entertainment, information stands, refreshments etc.
a ‘Special Achievement’ award for the New
Children’s art competition winners in conjunction with Wexford residents’ awards
Above left: Cllr Bridin Murphy, Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District, presents
Ross district to Woodview, Adamstown. Above centre: Cllr Bridin Murphy presents a ‘Special Achievement’ award for the New Ross district to Canon Murphy Park, Clonroche. Above right:
Cllr George Lawlor, Mayor of Wexford, presents the ‘Best Planter’ award for the Rosslare Municipal District to St Mary’s Terrace, Carrick on Bannow, resident Bridget Levingston.
Below left: Cllr George Lawlor presents the ‘Special Achievement’ award for the Rosslare Municipal District to Crossfarnoge, Kilmore Quay. Below centre: Cllr George Lawlor presents the ‘Best Estate’ award for the Wexford district to Belvedere Grove, Wexford. Below right: Cllr George Lawlor presents the ‘Best Garden’ award for the Wexford district to 3 Oaktree Heights, Wexford.
Cllr Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District, with art winners. Above L-R: Sean Kelly, Cathy Jordan, Jack Deegan, Sophia O’Rourke. Right: April Jordan. Below L-R: Jake Jordan, Alex Walsh, Lilly Moore, Abbie Walsh.
The Irish Dresser and Folklore Calendar returns
Now in its 5th year, the Irish Dresser and Folklore Calendar has become part of the fixtures and fittings of many homes in Ireland and abroad since Michael Fortune first published it in 2020.
Sadly, this year will be his last year producing the calendar as he is currently working on a new publication called The Irish Dresser which will be launched in 2025.
Like before, the 2025 calendar is designed and printed in Ireland and features 14 new dressers from counties Galway, Mayo, Tipperary, Wexford, Donegal, Waterford and Kilkenny. It also features QR codes which you scan with your phone and they'll take you to interviews with their owners.
He started work on The Irish Dresser Project back in 2015 and ever since then he has been in hundreds of homes, recording, documenting these pieces of furniture and the stories behind them. He never set out with a specific goal in mind and this project, like a country road, has been a bendy and windy but enjoyable journey. During this time he has docu-
mented hundreds of dressers and recorded their stories but, moreso, he has built up an understanding of their designs and features. For example, he says he can now “spot designs particular to the south east where some old dressers have little slots in the shelves where spoons and forks were hung" and one such dresser features in this year's calendar which belongs to Tommy Delaney in Courtnacuddy.
While he also says he'd "know the differences between north and south Wexford pieces due to a middle support bracket
popular in northern dressers and, as one maker copies the style of another, a pattern emerges in one geographical area".
This year's calendar features three dressers from Co. Wexford; Pat Boggan's dresser in Ballycadden, Tommy Delaney's dresser in Courtnacuddy, and the dresser of husband and wife Kay and Sean Donohoe from Askamore. Sadly, Sean passed away recently so the accompanying photo is that bit more poignant for his family, neighbours and friends.
There is something for everyone in this year’s calendar, plus there are over 100 Irish folklore dates pencilled into the calendar from full moon dates to little Irish folklore verses to do with the months and seasons. He says that, "This is more than just any calendar, it’s a piece of art, created with passion and love and something that will guide you through the calendar year from a uniquely Irish perspective."
The calendars cost €15 and with free postage in Ireland. You can order copies online at www.thedresserproject.ie or www.folklore.ie or they are available to buy in most bookshops in Wexford such as Easons, Red Books, Hubb 16, Selskar Bookshop, Readers Paradise, Peter Steemers and a host of outlets.
Please call Michael on 087 6470247 if you have any questions. n
The dresser of husband and wife Kay and Sean Donohoe from Askamore. Sadly, Sean passed away recently. May he rest in peace.
Wexford County Council, Environment Section Public Notice 4th December, 2024
Public Participation in the Identification of ‘’Bathing Waters’’ in Co. Wexford
Like many other County Councils, Wexford County Council is holding a public participation process as part of the identification of Bathing Waters under the Bathing Water Directive (2006/7/EC) and the Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008 (S.I. No. 79 of 2008).
Under the 2008 Regulations, local authorities are required to identify bathing waters. This must be done each year before 24th March (2025 for this participation process). It is also a requirement of the Regulations that the public should be involved in their implementation, including the identification of bathing water sites.
There are currently 8 Identified Bathing Waters in County Wexford at present. The Bathing Water Profiles of each beach below and further information is viewable on the link below. These are as follows; Ballymoney North Beach, Ballinesker, Carne, Courtown North Beach, Curracloe (White’s Gap), Duncannon, Morriscastle, Rosslare Strand.
The beaches are monitored for facilities, safety, water quality and the level of use.
Bathing water quality results for all Identified Bathing Areas in the Country for previous years are available on https://www.beaches.ie/ (on EPA website).
Wexford County Council now invites comments from interested members of the public for submissions of information or observations in relation to the identification of Bathing Waters. The consultation process provides the public with an opportunity to comment on existing designated bathing waters with a view to the continuation of the designation or comments on other bathing waters not currently designated but which may be considered for designation. In considering any beach the Council will take into account how many people use the beach, what facilities exist, how accessible it is and any safety issues at the site.
Submissions
You can send your comments, submissions and queries to Wexford County Council in the following ways through the Public Consultation Portal on: https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/en
By Post to:
F.A.O. Hugh Maguire, Environment Section, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford Town. Or by email to environment@wexfordcoco.ie
The closing date for the receipt of submissions is 5.00pm on Friday 17th January, 2025.
Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, Rannóg an Chomhshaoil – Fógra Poiblí, an 4 Nollaig 2024
Rannpháirtíocht Phoiblí i Sainaithint
“Uiscí Snámha” i gContae Loch Garman
Ar nós go leor Comhairlí Contae eile, tá próiseas rannpháirtíochta poiblí á reáchtáil mar chuid de shainaithint Uiscí Snámha faoin Treoir maidir le hUisce Snámha (2006/7/CE) agus na Rialacháin maidir le Cáilíocht Uisce Snámha, 2008 (I.R. Uimh. 79 de 2008).
Faoi Rialacháin 2008, ceanglaítear ar údaráis áitiúla uiscí snámha a shainaithint. Ní mór é seo a dhéanamh roimh an 24 Márta (i 2025 i gcás an phróisis rannpháirtíochta seo). Is ceanglas de na Rialacháin freisin é go mbeadh an pobal rannpháirteach ina gcur i bhfeidhm, lena n-áirítear láithreáin uiscí snámha a shainaithint.
Tá 8 láthair Uiscí Snámha Sainaitheanta i gContae Loch Garman i láthair na huaire. Is féidir Próifíl Uiscí Snámha gach trá thíos, agus faisnéis bhreise, a fheiceáil tríd an nasc thíos. Is iad sin mar seo leanas;
Trá Bhaile Muine Thuaidh, Baile na hEiscrí, Carnach, Trá Bhaile na Cúirte Thuaidh, Currach Cló (An Bhearna Bhán), Dún Canann, Caisleán Mhurchú, Trá Ros Láir.
Déantar monatóireacht ar na tránna seo ó thaobh áiseanna, sábháilteachta, cáilíocht uisce agus leibhéal úsáide de.
Tá fáil ar thorthaí faoi cháilíocht uisce snámha do na Limistéir Snámha Sainaitheanta go léir sa tír do na blianta roimh seo ar https://www.beaches.ie/ (ar shuíomh gréasáin na Gníomhaireachta um Chaomhnú Comhshaoil)
Fáiltíonn Comhairle Contae Loch Garman roimh thráchtanna anois ó dhaoine den phobal a bhfuil spéis acu maidir le haighneachtaí faisnéise nó barúlacha i ndáil le sainaithint Uiscí Snámha. Tríd an bpróiseas comhairliúchán, tugtar deis don phobal trácht a dhéanamh ar uiscí snámha ainmnithe atá ann cheana chun an t-ainmniú a choinneáil nó trácht a dhéanamh ar uiscí snámha nach bhfuil ainmnithe faoi láthair ach a d’fhéadfaí a bhreithniú lena n-ainmniú. Agus trá ar bith á bhreithniú ag an gComhairle, cuirfidh sí san áireamh an líon daoine a úsáideann an trá, na háiseanna atá ann, chomh inrochtana is atá sé agus ceist sábháilteachta ar bith atá ann ag an láthair.
Aighneachtaí
Is féidir leat do thráchtanna, aighneachta agus fiosruithe a sheoladh chuig Comhairle Contae Loch Garman ar na bealaí seo a leanas tríd an Tairseach Comhairliúcháin ar líne ar: https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/en
Ar an bpost chuig: Faoi bhráid: Hugh Maguire, Rannóg an Chomhshaoil, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, An Charraig Leathan, Baile Loch Garman.
Nó ar ríomhphost chuig: environment@wexfordcoco.ie
An dáta deiridh a nglacfar le haighneachtaí ná 5.00pm Dé hAoine, an 17 Eanáir 2025.
Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following posts
Library Assistant I.S. Project Leader
Selection for all posts will be by means of interview and candidates may be shortlisted based on applications submitted. Panels may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled.
Qualifications, application forms and further particulars for all posts are available from our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie
Please note all applications for the above posts must be Typed and submitted by Email only to recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie
Printed hard copies will NOT be accepted for the above posts.
Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for the above posts is:
5.00pm on Thursday 19th December, 2024.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Rosslare Coastal Erosion and Flood
Relief Scheme – Potential Options
Public Participation Day Thursday 5th December 2024
Background
Wexford County Council is undertaking the Rosslare Coastal Erosion and Flood Relief Scheme to manage and mitigate the risk of coastal erosion and coastal flooding.
Wexford County Council is working with the Office of Public Works and Nicholas O’Dwyer Ltd Consulting Engineers to progress the scheme.
Public Participation Day
Wexford County Council is holding a Public Participation Day to gather feedback and opinions in relation to options being considered for the scheme. We invite residents, businesses and all interested parties to attend and have your say on the potential options to inform the identification and selection of a preferred scheme.
We value all feedback and greatly appreciate any time spent communicating your views. There will be separate rooms displaying the potential options for the Rosslare Strand (eastern) area and for the Burrow Road (western) area.
• A questionnaire will be available for you to express your viewpoints.
• Members of the project team will be present to discuss your views. When? 4.00pm – 8.00pm, Thursday 5th of December, 2024.
053 919 6000
www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
Where? Coast Hotel, Rosslare Strand, Y35 Y93X.
Can’t make it? - if you cannot join us on the day a copy of the questionnaire will be available on the website as well as supporting maps and information. Please feel free to submit a completed questionnaire to us at RosslareCEFRS@nodwyer.com
How to Contact Us
You can keep in touch with the project through our website where we will be posting updates on progress and details of ongoing works: https://www.floodinfo.ie/frs/en/rosslare/home/
You can contact us via post or email at:
Rosslare Coastal Erosion and Flood Relief Scheme
Nicholas O’Dwyer Ltd. Unit 4E Nutgrove Office Park, Nutgrove Avenue, Dublin D14 V3F6
RosslareCEFRS@nodwyer.com
Scéim Creimthe Cósta agus Cosanta
Cúlra
Tá Comhairle Contae Loch Garman ag tabhairt faoi Scéim Creimthe Cósta agus Cosanta Tuilte Ros Láir chun an baol a bhaineann le creimeadh cósta agus tuile chósta a bhainistiú agus a mhaolú.
Tá Comhairle Contae Loch Garman ag obair le hOifig na nOibreacha Poiblí agus Nicholas O’Dwyer Ltd Consulting Engineers chun an scéim a chur chun cinn.
Lá Rannpháirtíochta Poiblí
Tá Comhairle Contae Loch Garman ag reáchtáil Lá Rannpháirtíochta Poiblí chun aiseolas agus tuairimí a fháil maidir leis na roghanna atá á mbreithniú don scéim seo. Tugaimid cuireadh do chónaitheoirí, gnólachtaí agus do gach páirtí a bhfuil spéis acu freastal ar an lá agus cead cainte a bheith acu maidir le roghanna féideartha chun eolas a dhéanamh do shainaithint agus roghnú scéim roghnaithe.
Is mór againn an t-aiseolas ar fad agus táimid buíochas as am ar bith a chaitear chun do thuairimí a chur in iúl. Beidh seomraí ar leith ann ina dtaispeántar na roghanna féideartha do limistéar Thrá Ros Láir (thoir) agus do limistéar Bhóthar an choinicéir (thiar).
• Beidh fáil ar cheistneoir chun go mbeidh tú in ann do dhearcthaí a chur in iúl.
• Beidh baill d’fhoireann an tionscadail i láthair chun do thuairimí a phlé. Cathain a bheidh sé ar siúl? 4.00pm – 8.00pm, Déardaoin, an 5 Nollaig 2024.
Cén áit a mbeidh sé ar siúl? Óstán an Chósta, Trá Ros Láir, Y35 Y93X. Nach bhfuil tú in ann a bheith ann? - más rud é nach mbeidh tú in ann a bheith linn ar an lá, beidh fáil ar chóip den cheistneoir ar an suíomh gréasáin, agus mapaí agus faisnéis tacaíochta freisin. Tá fáilte romhat ceistneoir comhlánaithe a chur ar aghaidh chugainn ar RosslareCEFRS@nodwyer.com
Is féidir leat fanacht ar an eolas faoin tionscadal trí an suíomh gréasáin atá againn, áit a mbeimid ag cur nuashonruithe maidir le dul chun cinn agus sonraí faoi oibreacha leanúnacha: https://www.floodinfo.ie/frs/en/rosslare/home/ Is féidir leat teagmháil a dhéanamh linn ar an bpost nó ar ríomhphost ar:
Scéim Creimthe Cósta agus Cosanta Tuilte Ros Láir
Nicholas O’Dwyer Ltd. Aonad 4E Páirc Oifigí an Gharráin Chnó, Ascaill an Gharráin Chnó, Baile Átha Cliath D14 V3F6 RosslareCEFRS@nodwyer.com
Notice of Intention to Acquire Derelict Site Compulsorily under Derelict Sites Act, 1990
(As amended by the Planning and Development Act 2000)
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council (hereinafter referred to as the “local authority”) in exercise of the powers conferred on them by Section 14 of the Derelict Sites Act, 1990 intend to acquire compulsorily under the said Act the derelict site described hereunder.
Property at 19 Mary Street, New Ross, Co Wexford.
A map of the said derelict site has been deposited at the Property Management Unit, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. The map may be viewed at all reasonable hours at the offices of Wexford County Council, Property Management Unit, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
Any owner, lessee or occupier (except a tenant for a month or a period less than a month) may, on or before Friday, 17th of January 2025 submit to the local authority an objection to the proposed compulsory acquisition of the derelict site. Any such objection must be in writing stating the grounds of the objection and addressed to the local authority at the Property Management Unit, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The Derelict Sites Act, 1990 (as amended by the Planning and Development Act, 2000) provides that if an objection is made to the proposed compulsory acquisition of a derelict site and the objection is not withdrawn, the derelict site shall not be acquired compulsorily by the local authority without the consent of An Bord Pleanála.
Description of Derelict Site Proposed to be Acquired Property at 19 Mary Street, New Ross, Co. Wexford.
Dated this 22nd day of November 2024.
Eddie Taaffe Chief Executive Wexford
County Council
Street
www.deadsureapp.com
Wexford County Council Grants for Protected Structures
Historic Structures Fund 2025
Wexford County Council wishes to invite applications under the Historic Structures Fund 2025 as operated by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. The primary focus of the Historic Structures Fund is to assist the conservation and enhancement of historic structures and buildings for the broader benefit of communities and the public.
This scheme seeks to assist with the conservation of Protected Structures and Proposed Protected Structures and in certain cases, for the conservation of structures within Architectural Conservation Areas, and to support the employment of skilled and experienced conservation professionals, craftworkers and tradespeople.
The scheme will be administered by Wexford County Council, with grants of between €50,000 and €200,000. Applicants will be required to provide a minimum of 50% matching funding.
Completed application forms must be received at Wexford County Council by 4pm on Friday 17th January 2025.
Further information and application forms for both schemes are available on Wexford County Council website at Grants for Protected Structures | Wexford County Council (wexfordcoco.ie), or from the Planning Section, telephone 053-9196101 or email heritage@wexfordcoco.ie.
Wexford County Council Grants for Thatched Buildings BHIS Thatched Buildings Stream 2025
Wexford County Council wishes to invite applications under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme Historic Thatched Buildings Stream 2025 as operated by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage
This scheme seeks is to protect the heritage value of historic thatched roof buildings across Ireland, including dwellings and other structures.
The scheme will be administered by Wexford County Council, with grants up to €20,000. Applicants will be required to provide a minimum of 20% matching funding.
Completed application forms must be received at Wexford County Council by 4pm on Friday 17th January 2025.
Further information and application forms for both schemes are available on Wexford County Council website at Grants for Protected Structures | Wexford County Council (wexfordcoco.ie), or from the Planning Section, telephone 053-9196101 or email heritage@wexfordcoco.ie.
Wexford County Council Grants for Archaeological Built Heritage Community Monuments Fund 2025
The Community Monuments Fund was first established in 2020 to provide investment in Ireland’s archaeological heritage. The Community Monuments Fund 2025 was launched by Mr. Malcolm Noonan TD. Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform on the 28th of October 2024.
The Community Monuments Fund provides funding for projects in relation to:
(i) Archaeological Monuments that are included in the Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) under the National Monuments Act 1930 (as amended).
(ii) Archaeological Monuments that are identified in the Sites and Monuments Record compiled by the National Monuments Service. There are 3 Streams:
Stream 1 will offer grants up to €100,000 aimed at essential repairs and capital works for the conservation and repair of archaeological monuments.
Stream 2 will offer grants of up to €30,000 for development of Conservation Management Plans/Reports that are aimed at identifying measures for conservation of archaeological monuments and improving public access.
Stream 3 will offer grants of up to €30,000 for enhancement of access infrastructure and interpretation (including virtual/online) at archaeological monuments.
Private applicants and/or community groups who are the owners or custodians of archaeological monuments in County Wexford who wish to apply should submit an application to the Planning Section, Wexford County Council, Planning Department, Carricklawn, Wexford by Friday the 31st of January 2025.
Further information and application forms for this scheme are available on Wexford County Council website at, Grants for Archaeological Built Heritage | Wexford County Council, or from the Planning Section, telephone 053-9196101 or email heritage@wexfordcoco.ie.
APPLICATION FOR A FORESHORE LEASE
ALSO INVITATION FOR PUBLIC SUBMISSIONS OR OBSERVATIONS FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONDUCTING STAGE 2 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT
Wexford County Council has applied to the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications for a Foreshore lease under Section 2 of the Foreshore Act 1933, as amended, for proposed construction works at Fethard Harbour, Fethard, Co. Wexford. The works proposed will consist of a slipway with an access ramp and steps to the beach, located along the eastern side of the existing harbour in Fethard, Co. Wexford.
www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
The structure is to be permanent, and the works will comprise of the following:
• Construction of a new concrete deck and slipway to fill the east side of the existing harbour
• Construction of associated reinforced concrete walls
• Construction of associated concrete access ramp and steps to the adjacent beach area
• Excavation required for construction of above concrete works
• Disposal of any surplus excavated material in accordance with the Waste Management Acts 1996-2019
• All ancillary works, fittings and service required.
PUBLIC CONSULTATION – SECTION 19 OF THE FORESHORE ACT
Notice is hereby given pursuant to Section 19 of the Foreshore Act, 1933, as amended, that Wexford County Council has applied to the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications for a Lease under the Foreshore Act 1933, as amended, for the purposes of the above project. In this regard, in accordance with Section 19, public submissions are invited on the proposed plan or project.
INVITATION FOR PUBLIC SUBMISSIONS OR OBSERVATIONS ON APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT
Notice is hereby given pursuant to Regulation 42(13) of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011, as amended, of an application for a foreshore Lease in relation to the above project. The Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications is responsible for making a decision on the application and the Minister may either grant, approve or consent to the application with or without covenants, conditions or agreements, where applicable, or refuse the application.
The Minister has determined, in accordance with Regulation 42(6) of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011, that an Appropriate Assessment is required in respect of the proposed plan or project. A copy of the Screening for Appropriate Assessment Report is available at: https://www.gov.ie/en/foreshorenotice/4079e-wexford-county-council-fethard-slipway/
Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
The Minister will make a determination as to whether or not the proposed plan or project would adversely affect the integrity of a European site in accordance with Regulation 42(11) of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 and, in doing so, shall have regard to the matters in Regulation 42(12).
In this regard, in accordance with Regulation 42(13), any person may make a submission or observation to the Minister concerning the proposed project during the period of consultation detailed below. The Minister shall have regard to any submissions or observations received during this time.
A copy of the application, map of the proposed project, location map coordinates, the Screening for Appropriate Assessment prepared by the Department’s Marine Advisor and the determination that an Appropriate Assessment is required in respect of the project, the Natura Impact Statement, and other information and documentation relevant to the application, are available for inspection for 30 calendar days, 4 December 2024 and 11 January 2025, free of charge at:
• New Ross Garda Station Marshmeadows, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Y34 A728
Request to view Documents should be sent to www.wexfordsouth.ce@garda.ie
Viewing times between Monday – Friday 10.00am – 3.00pm
• Environment Department, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93
This documentation and information is also available on the Department’s website, at: https://www.gov.ie/en/foreshore-notice/4079e-wexford-countycouncil-fethard-slipway/
Members of the public who wish to make a submission or observation in writing concerning the proposed project may do so between 4 December 2024 and 11 January 2025, (quoting ref: FS007064) to the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications, Foreshore Section, Marine Planning Governance and Regulation Division, Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, Newtown Road, Wexford, Co. Wexford or foreshore@decc.gov.ie
The closing date for submissions is close of business (17.30) on 11 January 2025.
Take notice that material to which the Minister shall have regard in making the Appropriate Assessment determination will be published on the Department’s website. In this regard, the Department wishes to draw attention to its policy on defamatory material that may be contained in submissions it receives, which may be found at: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/46bbd-public-participation-inthe-foreshore-consent-process/
REVIEW PROCEDURE
www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
A review procedure is available before the High Court whereby the substantive or procedural legality of the Minister’s Screening for Appropriate Assessment determination may be challenged. The review procedure is governed by Order 84 of the Rules of the Superior Courts, 1986 (S.I. 15 of 1986). A person wishing to avail of the review procedure must first file (i) a statement of grounds; and (ii) a verifying affidavit, in the Central Office of the High Court. It is then necessary to make an application for leave to apply to the High Court.
An application for leave to apply for judicial review shall be made within three months from the date when grounds for the application first arose under Section 21(1) of the Order 84 of the Rules of the Superior Courts as amended by S.I No 691 of 2011. The time-limit for such a review commences from the date that this public consultation starts. Practical information on the review mechanism can be obtained from the Citizens Information’s website at citizensinformation.ie
Section 50B of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 as amended applies inter alia to Judicial Review Proceedings. The matter of costs is addressed under Subsections (2),(2A),(3) &(4). Notwithstanding anything contained in Order 99 of the Rules of the Superior Courts (S.I. 15 of 1986) and subject to subsections (2A), (3) &(4), in proceedings to which this section applies, each party to the proceedings (including any notice party) shall bear its own costs. The full text of Section 50B is available at: http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/2010/en/act/pub/0030/sec0033.ht ml#sec33
Comhairle Contae
Loch Garman
Carraig Briste Early Years annual visit to Wheelock’s Christmas Tree Farm took place on 25th November, 2024.
Top
Left: Santa keeping an eye on proceedings at the Tree Farm.
Below
Below centre: Orlagh
Below right: Mary Wheelock with the children.
Top left: Carraig Briste proprietor Orlagh Doyle and the gang.
Top left: Amy, Alice, Sophie, Annie, Rosie, Fiadh, Roisin, Louise, Molly, Harley, Pat and Ali.
right: Cara, Fiadh, Mary, Loiuse, Aoife, Teddy, Michael, Aoibhe, Ruairi and Orlagh. Above left: First look at the trees.
right: Mary, Aoibhe, Orlagh and Michael.
Mary, Orlagh and Cara with Beech class.
Right: Kaia. Below left: Enjoying the farm.
Hairdressing apprentices showcase their achievements
18th November 2024, Enniscorthy Community College of Further Education
The Enniscorthy Community College of Further Education Hairdressing Stage 3 Apprentices – Ciara Harrington, Erin Maguire, Thomas Lacey, Leah Carroll Byrne, and Úna Roche – had their Capstone event, which marks the end of their apprenticeship, along with a showcase of their achievements, at the College on 18th November 2024.
Since the introduction of the National Hairdressing Apprenticeship back in January 2021, Enniscorthy Community College of Further Education has built a salon which is a state-of-the-art training facility and a centre of excellence in Co. Wexford.
The National Hairdressing Apprenticeship is for a duration of three years minimum with a Level 6 Major award on the National Framework of Qualifications. Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) issues the certificates as the Awarding body. Up to now there was no nationally recognised qualification for hairdressers in Ireland. The National Hairdressing Apprenticeship provides the first nationally recognised flagship standard for the hairdressing industry. A hairdressing apprenticeship ensures that training and development of hairdressing professionals will be formally regulated and consistent.
All five of the apprentices have won competition awards and three of them have been members of IHF (Irish Hairdressing Federation) Star Team Ireland and two were runners-up which is an amazing accolade for these apprentices.
The Slaney News was honoured to join in the celebrations of the apprentices’ achievements and listen to them showcasing their apprenticeship journey over the past three years. We were delighted to learn firsthand how ECCFE works to promote the first nationally recognised Hairdressing Apprenticeship qualification in Ireland – the first of many such celebrations it is hoped. n
Above: Programme Manager Dr Iain Wickham with the three teachers and Cllr Aidan Browne (Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District) and Minister James Browne TD.
Left: The teachers of the programme Claragh Carty, Mary Ivers, and Amy Doyle.
Dr Wickham and the teachers are very proud of all five apprentices and wish them well in their future endeavours.
Pics: Courtesy of Enjoy Enniscorthy.
Preparations are well advanced for the forthcoming Enniscorthy Panto production of Cinderella – The Panto, which will be staged in the Astro Active Centre, Enniscorthy, December 5th to 8th 2024. With a fantastic cast of enthusiastic performers, we are all in for a treat.
This is a fun adventure full of singing and dancing for all the family, which tells the story of Cinderella, her adorable friends Buttons and Widow Honeybum, as they meet Prince Charming, his father the King, and his hilarious friend Dandini. Along for the ride are Cinderella’s Wicked Stepmother and Ugly Stepsisters who have plans of their own when they meet Prince Charming.
Can Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother give her happily ever after or will her Wicked Stepmother get in the way. Go along and see this musical comedy adventure full of singing, dancing, fun and frolics for all the family – young and not so young.
The panto has a fantastic cast of enthusiastic performers, with lots of local talent in the front line, including Alice Medcalf as Cinderella and Therese Canavan Bolger as her Wicked Stepmother. As Cinderella’s loyal friend Buttons is Niamh Bolger, and her stepsister Anastasia is played by talented newcomer
Hollie Cloke. From The Ukraine there is Olena Cheberya as Drisella, in her first stage performance since coming to Ireland. Prince Charming has performed across the UK and Ireland, Tom Joyce. Some newcomers to the stage are included – Janet Daly and Astra McCauley as Dandini and Fairy Godmother. It’s a family affair as Cinderella’s real life father, David Medcalf, joins the cast as King Charming. The comedy heart of the show is Widow Honeybum played by comedy legend Jeanette Sidney Kelly.
With support by a chorus of 30 wonderful young people, this cast is ready to entertain local audiences with this exciting and heartwarming tale. The adventure runs in the Astro Active Centre, Enniscorthy, Thursday 5th - Saturday 7th December 2024 at 7.30pm and Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th at 2pm. Tickets €15 / €20 (plus booking fee). Tickets available from www.gr8events.ie
Pictured above:
Cinderella - Alice Medcalf
Stepmother - Therese Canavan Bolger
Anastasia - Hollie Cloke
Drisella - Olena Cheberya n
https://enniscorthypanto.wordpress.com/about/
Gorey’s micro arthouse cinema
It’s great to see the micro cinema at Gorey School of Art back open to the public showing critically-acclaimed films from around the world that are not available on commercial cinema screens, as well as supporting and presenting the work of Irish filmmakers.
In addition to the impressive and diverse programme, it also hosts special discussions, Q&As, exchanges of ideas etc regarding the cinematic arts.
To check out what films are coming up: https://periphery.space/film-clubprogramme n
CLOHAMON... SAVE THE DATES
CHRISTMAS MARKET: In the Marquee with Santa’s arrival on Saturday 7th December, donating to The Children’s Heart Centre Crumlin Hospital, Tables are limited – €20.
LIGHT-UP TRACTOR ROAD RUN: Saturday 14th December, donating to the Wexford Branch, Irish Kidney Association.
LIVE MUSIC: Stuart Moyles (award-winning country music singer) on Saturday 14th December 9pm to 11pm, live in the Marquee, Clohamon, Tickets €10, are now available from any Clohamon Vintage & Heritage Club committee member. n
Wexford’s jazz in the afternoon
her ‘Swing Jazz in the Afternoon Christmas Special’.
With Carole Nelson on piano and Adrian Jackson on bass, join Melanie for an afternoon of uplifting celebration of Christmas jazz favourites from legendary singers and composers such as Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Diana Krall, David Benoit, Michael Buble and more! An afternoon full of toe tappin' seasonal swing rhythm is guaranteed.
And great news is that Melanie will also be performing soon in Enniscorthy Castle – one of the most magical settings during Christmas. Go along on Sunday 15th December for an afternoon of swinging sounds of your favourite Christmas jazz standards. Enniscorthy Castle's Drawing Room will be decorated for the season and will definitely put you in the Christmas mood, with complimentary mince pies and a glass of mulled wine.
Doors open at 3:30pm, Music starts at 4pm. Castle admission is included in ticket price.
Check out Melanie’s website: www.melanieoreilly.com n
Major new facility for Curracloe
The official sod-turning ceremony for the new Curracloe Water Sports Facility took place last month. The building will consist of shower and changing facilities, secure storage, toilets, and equipment washdown areas. It will be fully wheelchair accessible. And will have solar heating panels on the roof.
Outdoor activities such as kayaking, surfing, paddle-boarding, etc will be available there.
The cost of €1.2 million is being funded jointly by the government through Fáilte Ireland and by Wexford County Council. This huge investment in Curracloe is due to be completed and open to the public in time for the 2025 tourist season. n
Melanie O'Reilly
This event is for children 2-10 years old.
Enniscorthy’s Christmas Craft and Gift Fair
ENNISCORTHY'S ANNUAL SPECTACULAR CRAFT AND GIFT FAIR WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE MAJESTIC SURROUNDINGS OF ENNISCORTHY ATHENAEUM ON 7TH AND 8TH DECEMBER. FULL DETAILS IN ACCOMPANYING GRAPHICS.
ICA national president Mary D’Arcy takes to the catwalk at the ICA Fashion Show in the Ferrycarrig Hotel recently. See full story on pages 80-81.
Playful Spaces at Orchard Peace Park Launch of music equipment 18th November 2024
The Slaney News was delighted to attend the launch event on 18th November in the Orchard Peace Park to showcase the new music equipment recently installed by Enniscorthy Municipal District all around the Park, and not even the rain could dampen the spirits of the young (from St Aidan's school next door) and not-so-young (Enniscorthy's Councillors and Council officials!!!) as they all had to have a go on the new equipment. Their best efforts may not have been 'music to our ears' but it was certainly great fun and, in addition, the newly installed
equipment adds some welcome colour to the Park all year round.
In addition to providing physical and musical activity for children as they meander through the park, the equipment will certainly make it more interesting for them and will no doubt add to the growing number of people who enjoy this oasis of peacefulness in the heart of Enniscorthy.
Well done to all in Enniscorthy Municipal District (particularly Lisa Moore who took this project under her wing) and to Wexford Co. Council for this lively and colourful addition to the Park. n
Above
James Browne TD and Ann Marie Laffan (Wexford Co. Council).
Above left: Pupils of St Aidan’s Schooll with Wexford Co. Council officials and District Councillors.
right: Annette Dupuy (Healthy County Coordinator, Wexford County Council), Cllr Aidan Browne (Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District), Minister
Right: Cllr John O’Rourke, Cllr Aidan Browne, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy.
The individual music equipment pieces installed in Enniscorthy’s Orchard Peace Park. Pics: Enniscorthy Tidy Towns.
Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager Claire Lawless.
St Aidan’s pupils.
Christmas events in Enniscorthy
CHRISTMAS MARKET AT ENNISCORTHY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Go along on Thursday, 12th December, from 5pm to 8pm, to enjoy the Enniscorthy Community College annual Christmas Market. With 80 unique stalls offering a wide range of festive goods, it's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. Bring your friends and family for an evening full of Christmas cheer, shopping, and fun.
Everyone is welcome — the college can’t wait to see you all there! n
The Melanie O’Reilly Trio brings you the swinging sounds of your favourite Christmas jazz standards in Enniscorthy Castle’s beautifully decorated Drawing Room on Sunday 15th December. Complimentary mince pies and a glass of mulled wine. Doors open at 3:30pm, Music starts at 4pm. Castle admission is included in ticket price. 053 9234699. info@enniscorthycastle.ie n
Enniscorthy Municipal District will host the Best Christmas Window Display Competition again for 2024.
Business owners in Enniscorthy, Ferns and Bunclody are invited to take part, as dressing windows for Christmas really helps to create a wonderful atmosphere in our towns and villages.
The most festive winning entry will be announced on Friday 20th December and will receive €500 worth of Wexford County Chamber Vouchers sponsored by Enniscorthy Municipal District.
See more details, including how to enter, in accompanying graphic on left.
Best of luck to all! n
BEST CHRISTMAS WINDOW DISPLAY COMPETITION
New choirs seeking new members
Creative Places Enniscorthy is thrilled to be supporting Enniscorthy’s new men’s choir which meets up at 7pm every Monday night at Templeshannon Community Centre.
Creative Places Enniscorthy is delighted to be working with the local community as part of this project and wants to thank Linda and Seamus for their dedication and organising
All are welcome to participate – no auditions. Enjoy singing your favourite songs while making new friends
Please contact 087 2930510 for more details.
For more information on Creative Places Enniscorthy please visit the website creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie n
7PM EVERY MONDAY NIGHT
10.30am
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER
PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Delightful Dollies annual
Craft Fair
Bellefield GAA complex, 20th November, 2024
Enniscorthy women’s group, the Delightful Dollies, held their annual Christmas Fair in Bellefield GAA complex on 20th November, 2024.
Top left: Jean Hendrick, Kathleen Mahon.
Top right: Bernadette O’Neill and Tomas Breen.
Above left: Amy Murphy and Jean Hughes.
Above centre: Taking a beak from canvassing were James Browne TD and Johnny Mythen.
Above right: Best friends Helen Wildes and Catherine Sinnott at their stall.
Right: Shania Donegan, Niamh Sinnott, Laura O’ Toole.
Below left: Patricia Whelan and Julie Costen at the fair.
Below centre: All her own kitting – Barbara Murphy.
Below right: Alison Kavanagh with her diamante art.
Christmas coming in a big way to St. Patrick’s School
The Saint Patrick's School Christmas Fair and Raffle are rapidly approaching.
The Christmas Fair takes place on December 15th, 11am to 4pm, with 66 craft stalls on site, and a visit from Santa himself.
The Monster Raffle has dozens of prizes, some of which are listed in the accompanying graphics. Tickets are one line for €2, or 3 lines for €5. Available from the school or contact the Fair’s Facebook page or you can text and revolut 086 4079966. The organisers will also be selling tickets around Enniscorthy over the coming days, so keep an eye out.
The Facebook page for St. Patrick’s Christmas Fair: https://www.facebook.com/share/15ZkYkshCc/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
The link for the Go Fund Me page (all the fundraising is to keep the two school buses on the road): https://gofund.me/6475deab
We'll keep you posted with more details over the coming days on the Slaney News Facebook page. n
Bunclody Teen disco
Bunclody Community Park fundraiser. Tickets on sale in Eurospar and Steemers Bunclody.
Sharon to dazzle at Johnstown
On Friday, 13th December, at 8pm, the fabulous jazz vocalist Sharon Clancy, along with her fantastic quartet, will take you on a magical, jazz-filled sleigh ride at Johnstown Castle’s Peacock Cafe.
Gift yourself an evening to relax and enjoy decades of Christmas classics. From the Great American songbook along with original songs that will have you singing in your seats! A great way tocelebrate this festive season with friends, family and loved ones.
The candles will be glowing, the wine will be flowing! There may even be a sprig or two of mistletoe to make this an unforgettable night of music, fun and Christmas joy.
After a year filled with headline gigs and songwriting, Christmas 2024 at Johnstown promises to be one of Sharon’s best gigs yet. As one of Ireland’s top female jazz vocalists, Sharon and her incredible band – Tony Rex on keys, Vicky Barron on Clarinet, Adrian Jackson on Double bass and Michael Black on drums – promise you a night of love, laughter
and
Doors open 7.30pm, concert 8.00pm. Tickets: https://bookings.johnstowncastle.ie/Event/CHRISTJAZZ n
Sharon Clancy.
Jazzy Christmas cheer. Get your tickets now for the hottest performance this festive season.
The Amnesty International Wexford Group is delighted to announce an upcoming fundraiser, "Music and a Message", taking place at the Wexford Arts Centre on Thursday, December 5th, 2024, at 8pm. This event promises to be an inspiring evening featuring talented performers and powerful messages advocating for human rights.
Website for tickets: https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/8736 50544
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=6155 2680296707 n
Above: Pierce Turner. Below: Basciville.
Above: Ayda and Rachel Grace. Below: Davy Lyons.
Fashion Show in Ferrycarrig
ICA President and family were a hit among the models at Fashion Show in Ferrycarrig
The Ferrycarrig Hotel might have been Milan or Paris as more than 300 women jostled to watch models from Wexford’s fashion houses stride a long catwalk there in the big conference room.
The models were showing off the latest in women’s wear. Many women came an hour early to ensure a seat close to the catwalk and by starting time of 8pm there wasn’t a spare car space to be had in the huge Ferrycarrig car park outside.
Men were in the minority with just two or three showing off greyish jackets and trousers that bore no comparison to the women’s colourful outfits. In this glamourous, glitzy display of County Wexford’s latest haute couture and off the peg, women’s dresses and trouser suits ruled the night. By comparison, the men’s outfits were dull and boring to behold. The male models got a few feminine ‘woo-
hoos’ and ‘ahhhs‘ and shrieks that sounded like the mating calls of Jane calling Tarzan from the middle of the forest on Bree Hill.
Irish Countrywomen’s Association national president Mary D’Arcy from Ballyfad, near the Wexford Wicklow border, and ICA County Federation president Breda Cahill from Bree were like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé as women from across the southeast greeted them and gave them sisterlike hugs. Both would give young men a good reason to join the ICA.
A bus-load of women had come from far away Carlow to see the show. They knew everybody.
Breda Banville of Camross, commère for the show, gave accounts of each outfit, the fabric that it was made of and who the designer was. To save his blushes, she urged Jim Campbell, press photographer,
one of a handful of men there, to close his eyes and look away as a model threw off her jacket to reveal an off-the-shoulder number.
Away began Breda in a tone of voice as solemn as that of RTÉ’s Anne Doyle delivering serious news.
“Our first boutique tonight is Lulu from 54 South Street, New Ross. Louise, you're very welcome with your team of models. So now we have our first model Yvonne. Yvonne is wearing a beautiful navy blazer with stud embellishments.
“It's worn over blue shirt with sequins. Costing £199.95. And the jersey boot and trousers £159.95. A deposit secures any item in Lulu. So beautiful Yvonne, up again on the ramp there now, give us another twirl. You're a brave woman.
“A big round of applause for Yvonne. Look at the sequins on that blazer. A navy blazer is a must in everybody's wardrobe.”
Above left: On the Catwalk. Above right: D’Arcy family models. Below left: Mary D'Arcy, national president ICA, and Dympna Kelly, Camross. Below centre: Arnaud Clopin shows off Sla�inte wine. Below right: Section of audience at Ferrycarrig Hotel.
On she went: “Now, oh here comes Selena from Camross originally. Now Selena is wearing a beautiful pink fur coat with hood. Push up that hood there now Selena.”
Breda enthused: “Now we have Marina, an ICA woman from Balin ICA. Marina is wearing a blue pattern pussy bow blouse costing £99.00. With matching pleated skirt, £90.00. There's a nice pop of blue and green there. It reminded me of the ICA colours, blue and green.”
On went commère Breda Banville commenting on different models for the best part of two hours.
Never mind all the models from around south Wexford, the hit models of the night were members of a family of four generations from north Wexford. They were 97-year-old Maureen Bushe from Ballyfad, her daughter, the national president Mary D’Arcy, Mary’s husband Lar, and Aisling, Katie and Caragh. They were literally modelling clothes for all ages.
Doing modelling gender balancing on the catwalk were the national president’s husband, Lar D’Arcy, the county president’s son Brendan Cahill-Flynn, and Murt Murphy, of Clonroche, husband of Fine
During the breaks, the women rolled in the aisles as a hilarious MC Liam Sharkey doled out gifts of ‘tins of Roses’, did magic tricks and spoke double-entendres that might or might not be dirty jokes. He was a blend of Brendan Grace, Jon Kenny and Pat Shortt, as they panted for his next prank to send them spontaneously into rapturous gales of laughter.
Even the women ‘manning’ the pop-up stands down at the back looked up from their duties. One group was selling scrumptious cakes and another, books, and yet another, miscellaneous items.
On one stand was a Frenchman, Arnaud Clopin, selling bottles of wine starting at €30 that he and his wife Áine from Inch had brewed. Áine’s maiden name inspired the business name of ‘La Kav’ wines.
Sabrina Murphy and Charleen Breen of Curracloe were on a colourful stand promoting the sale of hair pieces and wigs.
ICA County Federation president Breda Cahill talked to the crowd about the ICA and the kindness of its founder Anita Lett, founder of the ICA at Bree in 1910.
She said: “Anita Lett made a choice and the choice that she made has made life better for women in Ireland. All because she chose to be kind and to be compassionate and to do good.
“And that spirit and ethos lives in the ICA with all the fundraising that we do for charities around Wexford, our inclusivity with members, and our work in climate action and crafts and everything else in Ireland.”
The purpose of the fashion show was to raise funds for administration and work of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association in the county. Just like Milan or Paris, they had organised proper lighting and seating and heating and sound and Jim Campbell and other members of the Press there were treated as if they were royalty.
The ICA has the power to influence social and economic change throughout Ireland. The Fashion Show at the Ferrycarrig was one example of their great capability.
– M.F.
Below left: Attentive for Liam Sharkey. Below right: On the catwalk –professional model.
Above left: Sabrina Murphy and Charleen Breen of Curracloe. Above centre: The powerhouse behind the ICA Fashion Show was Breda Cahill, the county president. Above right: Jacinta Dunne, Karina Hayes and Alise Rocalinska from Shaws of Wexford.
Gael general election candidate Bridín Murphy.
SANTA SWITCHES ON ENNISCCORTHY’S
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR
087-2870006
Above left: Santa turns on the the Christmas Lights in Enniscorthy.
Left: Amy Deacon, Robyn Kehoe and Arianna Vieira. Below left: Santa and helpers in the parade. Below centre: Katie Corrigan.
CORTHY’S FESTIVE LIGHTING
Santa turns on the the Christmas Lights in Enniscorthy on 22nd November 2024.
Above left: Mrs Claus, Cllr Jackser Owens and Santa.
Above
right: Cllr Cathal Byrne with Santa and Mrs Claus. Far left: Catlin Walsh and Neabh O’Brien.
Below right: Group enjoying the event at Enniscorthy Castle. Bottom left: Ann Marie Furlong, Tia Robson, The Grinch, and Dylan Larkin.
Enniscorthy Retirement Association
The Enniscorthy Retirement Association holds monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of every month at 2.30pm in the Riverside Park Hotel, The Promenade, Enniscorthy, with the exception of January and August.
There are regular outings, as well as various activities every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
For further details about Enniscorthy Retirement Association go along to any monthly meeting or see ‘Enniscorthy Retirement Association’ on Facebook or email: enniscorthtyretirementassociation@outlook.com
Check out the new website which is now live at www.enniscorthyretirement.net n
Live at Coollattin House
The Courthouse Arts Centre brings Leslie Dowdall and Mark Caplice (right) to Coollattin House, Shillelagh, to start off the Christmas celebrations on December 7th. Booking www.courthousearts.ie/booking
At the Delightful Dollies Christmas Fair in Bellefield GAA complex on 20th November 2024 were above left: Allie and Leanne Morris. Above right: Johnny Mythen TD, Maureen Peare and Mary Pigott.
Dinosaur
Parties are back!
After much demand, Deadly Dinosaurs is back providing entertainment for your special day, be it a birthday, communion, or any other occasion!
For details and availability, please don't hesitate to message Luke at Deadly Dinosaurs on Facebook, Instagram, or contact 089 4774159.
Please note, Deadly Dinosaurs does not take responsibility for any cake and/or children eaten by any dinosaurs at these events!!! n
GLADIATOR 2
Movie Review by Kyle Walsh
It’s hard to believe that it has been 24 years ago since the original Gladiator movie was released. I remember watching it for the first time and it was great. It went on to win best picture and best director for the incredible Ridley Scott and best actor for Russell Crowe. Also the powerful soundtrack by the great Hans Zimmer was nominated for an Oscar too. It is a masterpiece. So to my astonishment I could not believe when it was announced that Ridley Scott was going to be directing a sequel to the great Gladiator. What? Why? It just didn’t make any sense to me. Then again Hollywood is a very strange place where strange things happen. Then we started to hear certain actors being linked to the film. Names such as Denzel Washington, Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn. I was excited when I read Denzel was doing it as he is one of my favourite actors. Then they released the first trailer and it was really poor, my expectations hit the floor. Then they released a second trailer which was much better and I was looking forward to it again. The night arrived to go watch it on the Maxx screen in Wexford Omniplex Cinema. Got my popcorn and off I went walking through the cinema lobby as if I was some kind of Gladiator.
So I’m here to report that Gladiator 2 is just another sword and sandal action film that you will forget about as soon as you walk to your car after the film ends. I could not believe how bad this film was. The film felt disingenuous and it retreads every plot point of the original movie, beat for beat, except nowhere as good. The only thing that this movie has to offer is a very mixed-up story that by the third act I was not buying anything that they were trying to sell me. I was so bored with it all and genuinely could not wait for it all to end. A complete waste of time that I will never get back. The action sequences were shockingly poor. For a movie that reportedly had a 300 million dollar budget I’d love to know where the money was spent because it definitely was not spent on the CGI department. The CGI is some of the worse I have ever seen on a big budget movie like this. The monkeys the Gladiator had to fight in the Colliseum were horrible-looking CGI characters, the fighting Rhino, and let’s not even waste our time talking about the sharks in the water in the colliseum. Shocking is the only word that comes to mind. Even the sword-fighting was harmless and I never felt for a second our hero was ever in danger.
There were plenty of digital effects but it was all soulless. I did not care who lived or died. The two Emperors ruling Rome were like Beavis and Butthead, two cartoon characters.
Denzel disappointed me with his performance and as for Paul Mescal in the role of a Gladiator – it was just way too big for him. He did not convince me that he was Rome’s hero. His delivery of lines was cringy and his overall performance sucked. Probably the best character was Pedro Pascal’s character General Acacius but he was not in it long enough.
As I write this piece I feel myself getting angry. I am sick of Hollywood not coming up with original ideas anymore. Why do the powers of Hollywood think that we as a audience want the same shit thrown at us week in week out with their ridiculous sequels and prequels of original IPs. I don’t want this crap any more. Cinema has been very poor this year and in next month’s edition I will find it very hard to come up with my best ten movies of the year list.
So folks, if you have not seen Gladiator 2 yet, please stay away from it and save your hard earned money. Ridley Scott thank you for great movies from the past but you have not made a good movie in 15 years. You are now 86 years old and a multimillionaire so I would suggest you retire now because you are finished my friend. All good things must come to a end.
I was not entertained with this crap. 3/10 from me . n
THE BOYS WERE BACK IN TOWN
Recoil - Peer Pleasure
By Dorn Simon. Pics: @gigsbyalli on Instagram
Saturday, November 23rd, saw a longawaited and eager return at The Presentation Arts Centre when RECOIL took to the stage to support headliners PEER PLEASURE, who were fresh off their recent Ireland/UK Tour, having played Ireland’s first Capitol Cork at An Spailpín Fánach, Ballina Punx in Mayo, Derry, Dublin, and then over to The Washington in Sheffield and Dash The Henge in London. Earlier, they played in Belgium, The Netherlands, and Germany, to name but a few.
With the announcement of Peer Pleasure’s furthest away gig yet, they are set to perform at the Dedstrange Record Label Party in Manhattan, NY, March 4-9th 2025! Their latest single ‘Pedestrian’ was released on October 31st and is available on all streaming platforms.
Saturday’s gig was marred somewhat by Storm Bert which brought torrential downpours, risk of flooding, and galeforce winds. However, it did not deter the die-hard fans or the hardcore gig-goers of Enniscorthy, as people of all ages arrived all kitted out for a night of Punk Rock in all its forms.
From 12-year-olds to nigh-on 60, the audience was a testament to music, particularly the ever-regenerating Punk/Garage Rock genres, which bring refreshing originality every single time, decades apart. Unlike many genres these days, where the sound itself takes over the artists, leaving too many sounding the same, Punk has remained one of the most ingenious genres of authenticity, creativity, and political stance.
Recoil, with their fresh faces and young energy, is a perfect example of creative
juices running through punk pathways as they have chiselled out their sound whilst equally establishing themselves under the Punk umbrella.
Raucous, refined, and expertly matured with their recent offerings, is a setlist including new material adding to the freeflowing mix where each track is different yet all gelling so well to form an impressive set.
The band have come a long way in a very short time, having regular bookings in Dublin, Wexford, and further afield and with three single releases, all in under two years as a band.
Considering they are still in the teen bracket, these lads have always focused on professionalism, which they bring to every gig.
Brandon, Joel & Cein
Andrew Kehoe
Joel Pitcher
Jack Cloke
Having been in and out of the recording studio throughout 2024, a portion of new material is yet to be heard, and a longawaited release is forthcoming.
Matt Griffiths from the band Low Ground was a guest vocalist joining the stage to sing the Recoil Anthem ‘I Wanna Start A Riot’ and his entertaining stage presence is one to watch out for, so, keep an eye on Low Ground.
Recoil guitarist Evan Delaney took over lead vocals for an unreleased original track called ‘Oblivion’ showcasing his melodicrock vocal range and increasing expertise on guitar.
The set included covers of The Doors, Sex Pistols, Fontaines D.C., Chuck Berry, and Recoil original material.
The Setlist:
Backdoor Man (The Doors) Five to One Backdoor Man (Reprise)
Highway Tune (Greta Van Fleet) Rip you Out (Recoil original)
Oblivion (Recoil original)
Ever Fallen In Love (The Buzzcocks)
Alternative Ulster (Stiff Little Fingers) 6L GTR (The Chats)
That’s All I Said (Recoil original)
Johnny B. Goode (Chuck Berry) Mistakes Were Made (Recoil original) Pretty Vacant (Sex Pistols) In Mind (Recoil original) Boyz In The Better Land (Fontaines D.C.)
With the addition of I Wanna Start A Riot guest spot.
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
Peer Pleasure presented as clean, sharp, on the ball, and played their best game. The level of maturity that they brought back this time was markedly evident, both in performance and music, not to mention attitude.
The touring band has gathered a lot of experience along the way, and it showed that professionalism has become centre-stage, and the stage was the backdrop for some well-knitted tracks that they seemed to play effortlessly.
As a band Peer Pleasure has always adopted the supergroup rotating members approach, where one can never know who may be on stage from gig to gig, this kept their performances fresh, unique, intriguing and exciting throughout their years on the alternative circuit.
With multi-disciplined musicians, the instruments often including sax, or trumpet alongside violin, midi, guitars, bass, and drums, they truly showcase their skill time and time again.
Saturday’s members included:
Brandon Murphy
Cein O’Dowd
Jeff Miller
Joseph O’Gorman
Joel Pitcher
Erik Murphy
A new improved setlist incorporated new material, the singles Pedestrian, Take It, and the old classics, such as Weed Addict, where guest vocalist Archie Laws (Bassist of Equinox) jumped in to perform, with a ferocious stage presence, he took the stage by storm, delivering impressive vocals, with energy unsurpassed, flailing around the stage in expert fashion.
A new audience accompanied Saturday’s event, with many new and younger faces, bopping heads, and dancing, it was refreshing to see new life in a scene that needed more variety, and variety is what you’ll always get with these two bands.
Welcome Home lads, even if just for a little while. n
Erik Murphy
Evan Delaney
Jeff Miller
Erik Murphy & Joseph O'Gorman
Connor Lee Carr
Archie Laws, Guest Vox, Peer Pleasure
Matt Griffiths, guest of Recoil
Opera at the Castle Words and pics by Maria Nolan
Anyone who missed Soprano extraordinaire Emer Barry at the Candlelight Opera at Enniscorthy Castle recently missed a little bit of heaven.
Those in attendance were treated to a magical performance from this truly wonderful singer, originally from Longford but now living in Enniscorthy, who not only has the voice of an angel but is also quite
the actress, entertaining all with her fabulous on-stage presence, her exquisite costumes, and her charming anecdotes accompanying each of her amazing pieces.
Appearing like the fairy for the top of the Christmas tree in a stunning white dress and glimmering gold shoes, Emer was only short of wings as she set out to
enthral the Castle full house with the nostalgic Marble Halls from the opera
The Bohemian Girl by Irish composer Michael William Balfe.
From there she introduced us to the piece Gabriel’s Oboe/Nella Fantasia and the iconic soprano Sarah Brightman. From then on it was all about women
Left: Soprano Emer Barry. Below: Emer with Maria Nolan.
power as she regaled with Rusalka’s A Song to the Moon, Carmens Habanera, Lauretta’s O Mio Babbino and Adelaide’s Adelaide’s Wedding.
Just before the interlude, Emer prepared her very appreciative audience for the second half of the show, known as Popera, singing What Was I Made For from the very popular Barbie film released earlier this year.
After much admiring and enthusiastic chatter and mingling over a glass or two of vino everyone was delighted to settle back down to the eagerly anticipated Part 2 – Popera – songs that Emer explained have been ‘opera-fied’, Never
Enough, Rule the World and the hauntingly beautiful Wuthering Heights before she closed a truly beautiful and uplifting evening with Nessun Dorma and the classic Time to Say Goodbye.
The Castle donned in its festive best for the occasion, and adorned with hundreds of tiny, twinkling candles, was the perfect forum for the elevating arias and the inspiring, enriching performance by the very talented and enjoyably engaging Emer, and all I can say to Manager Mico Hassett and her staff and the organisers Alfie O’Sullivan and Kristyna Simko of Creative Grounds is, ‘Can we have some more please.’ n
Maria Nolan, Kristyna Simko and Alfie O’Sullivan from Creative Grounds, Mico Hassett (Enniscorthy Castle).
Above and below: Soprano Emer Barry.
Oylegate Christmas Craft Fair, Oylegate Community Centre, 24th November 2024.
Top left: Liz Kinsella and Hollie O’Leary. Top right: Marie Hennessy and Helena
Above left: Gretta Quigley and Rachel Goff. Above centre: Aisling and dad Dom Somers. Above right: Naudie and Alan Maher. Left: Lilly and Paidie Somers. Below left: Conor Ring and Emer Doran at their stand. Below right: Stella, Adrian and Aoibheann Nolan.
Maher.
A Taste of Spain in Enniscorthy
Words and pics by Maria Nolan
Once again I am singing the praises of the owners of Creative Grounds, Enniscorthy, Alfie O’Sullivan and Kristyna Simko... well it’s the season for singing praises now isn’t it.
On Friday 22nd November this creative couple brought something different to warm an Enniscorthy winter’s evening hosting a Taste of Spain at their bohemian style premises at Irish Street creating a holiday vibe for all in attendance.
Whilst savouring the delicious, authentic Spanish tapas freshly prepared by talented Spanish chef Carmen Sanchez, punters chatted and mingled in the relaxed atmosphere enjoying copious glasses of the ‘far too easy to drink’ sangria, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, both lovingly made by the proprietor himself.
All this to the strains of Irish flamenco guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter Craig O Mathuna, who has been dividing his time over the past two decades between performances in Ireland, France, and Spain.
Craig delighted the full house with authentic solo flamenco guitar from legendary players like Paco de Lucia, Juan Manuel Canizares, Vincente Amigo and Jeronimo Maya, contributing to the casual ambience of the intimate surroundings.
Another amazing event from this dynamic duo prompting me to ask yet again, ‘Please can we have some more.’
Enniscorthy can certainly do with more imaginative occasions, and I am happy to say my requests have been answered by the establishment with two would-be magical affairs planned for December – A Taste of Christmas on Saturday 21st December with Live Music, Mulled Wine and Festive Bites, and Classical Christmas at St. Mary’s on Friday December 20th – with Soprano Emer Barry and special guests singing all our favourite hymns and carols.
Two special evenings to give us that enchanted Ho Ho Ho feeling – don’t miss ‘em. n
Creative Grounds –
Enniscorthy’s
dedicated
event & performance cafe
There’s so much happening every month in Creative Grounds in Enniscorthy – book club, movie nights, art exhibitions, crafts, open mic nights, fancy dress Christmas Ball, tarot readings, spoken word, stand-up comedy, quiz nights, kids events, etc, and even organising a recent sold-out opera night in Enniscorthy Castle! Way too much to list here but you can easily check out all the goings-on at:
Great locally roasted coffees, the biggest selection of speciality teas for miles around, a brand new selection of mouthwatering sandwiches, toasties & treats; and now a great selection of wines and beers to enjoy.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/347529244738655 https://www.instagram.com/creativegrounds.ie/ n
What’s On Wexford
https://www.facebook.com/groups/WexfordEvents for the best listing of what’s happening all over Co. Wexford. n
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES
Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764. Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000. Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529.
If you're interested in joining the chorus, but didn’t fill in the previous registration form or were unable to attend the dance workshop in September, don't worry – you can fill in the form below by clicking the link and just pop along to the first rehearsal.
Following the incredible recent success of its four-night run of Hits of the Musicals in White’s Hotel, Wexford, the Wexford Light Opera Society has announced its production for 2025 will be ‘Young Frankenstein’ which will run from Monday, 28 April – Saturday, 3 May.
Brought to life by the creative genius of Mel Brooks, this hilarious musical adaptation of the beloved 1974 film is packed with laughs, catchy tunes, and a wild romp through Transylvania!
Find out more at: https://rebrand.ly/zt6olue
Tickets on sale: https://www.nationaloperahouse.ie/whats-on/young-frankenstein n
The hills are alive with the sound of music!
Enniscorthy is well known for being hilly and local artist Mary Doyle, with support from Creative Places Enniscorthy, took advantage recently to position two choirs opposite each other – one on Shannon Hill and one on Turret Rocks, who, within sight, sang to each other from two of the highest points in the town, thereby establishing a visible and vocal connection. A magical coming together of community and creativity set against the breathtaking views of Vinegar Hill and a snow-covered Mount Leinster. n
Members of various Enniscorthy eastside choirs participating in the arts project on Shannon Hill under the musical direction of Linda O’Rourke.
Above and below: The Yellow Bellows under the musical direction of Anita Mahon participating in the arts project at Turret Rocks, Enniscorthy.
Linda O’Rourke and artist Mary Doyle.
Mary Cotter launches her second novel
Words and pics by Maria Nolan
In the relaxed, laidback, cozy, ambience of Creative Grounds in Enniscorthy, author and poet Mary Cotter launched her second book A Boat for Benny.
Following on the heels of her debut novel Spike, which was launched in 2021, A Boat for Benny is a moving tale of the emotional journey of a young boy Benny as he deals with the life-changing issues of grief and loss, and explores the deep bonds that exist between twins as Benny seeks comfort and support in the strong connection he has with his twin sister Ellen, and according to MC Cathy Keane ‘is a beautifully written piece of work and a wonderful read’.
‘A Boat for Benny is a lovely, heartwarming story that will cause you to shed a tear, as it did me,’ Cathy, who also proofread Mary’s book, went on to say.
Cathy also had great praise for Mary’s newfound use of social media platforms to promote and sell her book and complimented her for inspiring all of us to pursue and realise our dreams regardless of whatever age we’re at.
Mary Cotter then took the stage proving that nothing can bring a book to life better than an author reading especially when it comes to Mary who is not just an accomplished writer but a confident and commanding performer who treated all in attendance to a tantalising taster, reading extracts that gave an insight into the well-crafted, poignant tale.
Mary thanked everyone for coming with special mention for Wexford Co. Council, the Irish Writers Centre, and the Arts Council for the mentoring programme that made this publication possible.
Mary was delighted to have members of her family present for the occasion most particularly her grandson Billy.
Well done Mary Cotter and Creative Grounds for providing the perfect venue.
A Boat for Benny is available to purchase on Amazon or from Mary Cotter and will soon be available as an audio book. n
Mary Cotter reads from her book.
Mary Cotter with Cathy Keane.
Mary Cotter with Kristyna Simko.
Dick Donaghue, Marja van Kampen and Cathy Keane.
Mary Cotter with Maria Nolan.
Dotty about art!
by Maria Nolan
Recently, I was introduced to, what to me is, a new art form called Pointillism, executed with a fineliner pen to produce stunning pieces of intricate original pen drawings, illustrations and more that take hundreds of hours to complete.
The Exhibition One Dot At A Time opened at The Presentation Arts Centre on Saturday 16th November and is the work of artist Corina Fitzgibbon and is Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland and Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit rolled into one.
Truly, it has that ‘falling down a rabbit hole’ experience, as tiny heads of badgers, foxes, rabbits, birds, deer and other enchanting forest animals pop up, as if magically, all through her frames.
The artist, the bubbly and colourful Corina, says she never quite knows who or what is going to appear next – she just keeps going and is often as surprised as anyone else at what happens.
Corina’s artwork spans imaginative worlds and universes and is full of whimsical flora and fauna.
‘Each dot’, Corina explained, ‘in each illustration is infused with
emotion, from joy to anxiety and beyond, and the exhibition is a real testament to the healing powers of artwork, especially for mental health.’
‘It takes a lot of patience to complete each artwork but each piece is a journey for me,’ Corina continued, ‘it is more about the process than the end result, it’s about getting lost in the piece that I am creating and being purely in the moment, being so content in the process that time just melts away.’
One of the larger pieces on display titled One Day took her 420 hours and 16 minutes to perfect and bears the price tag of €25,000.
Manager Larry Dunne congratulated Corina on her stunning collection of work saying, ‘I know I’ll be picking up a pen this weekend to start sketching again, completely inspired by this show and I’m certain I’m not the only one.’
Larry went on to thank all those who support and maintain The Presentation Arts Centre – Wexford County Council, Wexford Local Development and Wexford Arts Centre.
‘And a big thank you to the Irish Arts Council for granting Corina the 2024 Agility Award, which made this exhibition a reality.’
‘To our staff here, Lisa Byrne for her unreal curation of this exhibition, Conor Gibson for his gallery install skills, and to Bridget, Niall and Ryan for all their front of house expertise, and most importantly, thank you to everyone here tonight who came out to support Corina. In a world where more and more arts organisations and businesses are turning to, what is in my opinion, dodgy AI slop for free and easy solutions.’
‘It is now more important than ever’, Larry stressed, ‘to support the creativity of real artists making real artwork. Machines don't have to pay rent and bills – artists do. So, please keep on supporting your local artists, just like we're all celebrating Corina tonight.’
A most wonderful exhibition suitable for adults and children alike, in fact I have a feeling that children would love it – so do take them in to The Presentation Arts Centre over the Christmas period – One Dot At A Time runs from now until the 1st March. n
Artist Corina Fitzgibbon and exhibition curator Lisa Byrne.
Enniscorthy Library Adult Book Club, Thursdays, at 7pm. This club meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7pm and is free to join. Book clubs are a great way to meet others and discuss books.
If you would like more information or to join, contact Enniscorthy library on 053 9236055. All are welcome. n
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES
Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.
The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000
The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529
Stay in touch with Wexford’s library services
Wexford Public Libraries Social Media: Wexford Public Libraries on Facebook. Wexford Public Libraries on Instagram @wexfordlibraries.
Wexford Public Libraries on Twitter @wexlibraries.
YouTube: "Wexford Public Libraries" n
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
Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely
For a complete listing of upcoming music, drama, comedy, film, art, etc, see: https://www.courthousearts.ie/whats-on n
Creative Places Enniscorthy
Deryn O Callaghan is the Project Co-ordinator. For any queries, suggestions or ideas, tel: 087 9578984.
Email: cpenniscorthy@wexfordartscentre.ie www.creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie https://www.facebook.com/CreativePlacesEnniscorthy n
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
IRISH TUNA PATE
INGREDIENTS:
1 Jar of Shines Albacore Tuna (drained)
6oz Kerrygold Butter
1.5 tbsp Ballymaloe Mayo
1.5 tbsp Ballymaloe Relish
2 Wedges of Lemon juiced
Tsp or less of Cracked Black Pepper
INSTRUCTIONS:
Take your butter out of the fridge for 15 mins before use, to take the chill off, but don’t let it get to room temperature.
Blend all ingredients in a food processor. Stop 2-3 times and scrape down the sides. Blend until very smooth. This should take roughly 2 mins.
Cut some parchment paper. This will be used to roll the mixture, and roll like a Swiss roll.
Place your mixture on the parchment paper and roll.
Chill in the fridge overnight.
Take out of the fridge and sit for 15 to 30 mins.
OPTIONAL:
Cut a new sheet of parchment paper, cover the paper with fesh-cut chives or parsley. Roll the pate over the chives to stick like crumb on the outside.
Enjoy! n
https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted
Caitriona Barron
Pic: Caitriona Barron.
ooted in exford
DECEMBER IN THE GARDEN: WRAPPING UP THE YEAR
December might feel like a quiet time in the garden, but there’s still plenty to do to keep things ticking along and to prepare for the seasons ahead. While the growth has slowed and the frost has set in, there are jobs to tackle that will make a world of difference when spring rolls around. Plus, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the year, tidy up, and plan for what’s next.
Plant Bare-Root Fruit Trees
Winter is actually the perfect time to plant bare-root fruit trees and shrubs. They’re dormant now, so they settle in well without the stress of hot weather. Pick up healthy-looking plants from a trusted nursery, and before planting, give the roots a good soak in water for a couple of hours. When planting, dig a hole wide enough to spread out the roots, pop in some compost or well-rotted
Mark Cooke invites you to grow along with him.
The Slaney News is delighted to have Enniscorthy man, Mark Cooke, on board as a columnist. Mark is a member at Enniscorthy Community Allotments, and has a huge passion for growing fruit and veg which he shares on his Instagram platform @rootedinwexford which has over 7,500 followers. Mark describes himself very much as a ‘hobby gardener’ who is not academically trained in horticulture. He started planting with very little knowledge a few years ago and that knowledge has now ‘mushroomed’! Mark loves sharing his passion for growing with our readers.
manure for extra nutrients, and then backfill with soil. Press it down firmly, water it well, and add a layer of mulch around the base to help keep the roots cosy and retain moisture.
Divide Your Rhubarb
If you’ve got rhubarb in your garden, December is a great time to give it a little TLC. Every few years, rhubarb benefits from being divided— it keeps the plant healthy and productive. Carefully dig up the clump and split it into sections, making sure each piece has at least one bud and a good chunk of root. Replant these in well-enriched soil, spacing them out so they’ve got room to grow. Water them well, and they’ll be ready to spring back to life in the new year.
Give Your Tools Some Love
Let’s be honest—garden tools don’t always get the care they deserve during the busy growing season. But now, with things slowing down, it’s the perfect time to clean them up. Scrub off any dirt, disinfect them with a water and disinfectant solution, and dry them thoroughly to avoid rust. If you’ve got tools with
blades, sharpen them up and give metal parts a light coating of oil to keep them in good shape. A little maintenance now will make life so much easier come spring.
Protect Crops from Frost
Even in the colder months, there are some crops like spinach, lettuce, or overwintering seedlings that can keep going with a bit of care. Frost fleece is a lifesaver—it acts like a blanket for your plants, keeping the frost off while still letting light and water through. Lay the fleece gently over your crops, making sure it’s secured at the edges so it doesn’t blow away. Leave some space for the plants to grow, and they’ll thank you for the extra protection.
A Time to Pause and Plan
December might not be action-packed in the garden, but it’s a good time to take a step back and think about what’s worked this year and what you’d like to change. Whether it’s trying new crops, tweaking your planting schedule, or planning a new layout, this is your chance to dream up ideas for next year. Pull out the seed catalogues, take a look at what’s left in your
seed box, and get ready to hit the ground running when spring comes.
Enjoy the Festive Season
While you’re wrapping up jobs in the garden, don’t forget to soak up the festive spirit. December is a month to rest, recharge, and enjoy time with family and friends. Whether you’re planning next year’s garden by the fire or enjoying the last few veggies of the season, take a moment to appreciate how far your garden has come this year.
Wishing you a happy and peaceful Christmas! May your garden dreams for next year be bright and full of potential. For more tips and to keep up with my own gardening journey, follow me on Instagram @rootedinwexford. Here’s to a great year of growing ahead! n
Kearns and Kelly success at Good Food Ireland awards
County Wexford fruit grower, Kearns Fruit Farm, came out on top at the prestigious Good Food Ireland® Awards 2024 in association with FBD Insurance as the Awards’ worthy winners were announced during a high-profile ceremony at The K Club in Co. Kildare on Monday 11 November.
The Awards celebrate businesses at every layer of Ireland’s food and drink industry. From primary producers, manufacturers, and chefs, to shops, hotels, tourism experiences, and restaurants, those businesses who made the shortlist and went on to become winners are regarded by the judges as embodying all that makes Ireland’s food and drink offering so standout.
More than 300 attendees including Irish and international chefs, buyers, food and drink writers, media and industry leaders, enjoyed a five-course gala dinner designed by The K Club’s Executive Chef Gary O’Hanlon inspired by our island’s landscape and seascape showcasing the freshest of ingredients from Irish suppliers.
One of Ireland’s longest established family-run fruit farms, Kearns Fruit Farm,
based just outside Enniscorthy, won Fruit & Vegetable Producer of the Year.
Kelly’s Resort Hotel & Spa was declared 4* Hotel of the Year for delivering a highquality dining experience, showcasing seasonal, Irish produce, together with an approach that celebrates Ireland’s rich traditions and hospitality.
Winners were selected through mystery inspections and assessments of those businesses approved by Good Food Ireland®
and shortlisted by an independent panel of Irish and international leaders including Founder and Managing Director of Good Food Ireland® Margaret Jeffares, former Good Food Ireland® Operations Director Susan Kerr, journalist John Wilson, hospitality consultant Tom O’Connell, lecturer in the School of Hospitality Management & Tourism at TU Dublin Dr Detta Melia, Executive Chairman and Owner of Odyssey International Kevin Shannon, and previous chef and hotelier Maurice Keller. n
Above left: The Kelly’s team receiving their award from Margaret Jeffares. Above right: Kearns Fruit Farm – Fruit & Vegetable Producer of the Year.
Jimmy Kearns of Kearns Fruit Farm receiving the award.
Slaney
Lots on at the allotments
November was a great month at Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA). Gillian O’Neill, Secretary, keeps us updated with all the news and photos...
We were beyond thrilled to win 1st prize for the Best Community Environment Initiative in the Wexford County Council Keep Wexford Beautiful Environmental Awards 2024. It is yet another amazing achievement for us all.
Some of our members received their QQI Level 4 certificates in Horticulture in Wexford College of Further Education and Training last month. This is a fantastic achievement, a massive well done to them all.
We are delighted to now have our wormery and water harvesting units in place in the allotments which were included in the funding we received from the Wexford County Council Climate Action grant.
We also now have the pathway at the entrance to the main site tarmacked, this is an absolutely fantastic addition that allows easier access for everyone. Along with the tarmac, we also got pipes down at the front entrance which will assist massively with our drainage. The base for our new shed is now in place over at the polytunnel site and we hope to have the shed in very soon.
The Sustainable Christmas Wreath Demonstration held here was a great success, everyone really enjoyed learning the tricks of the trade to make their very own wreath at home. Thank you to Aoife Munn for coming out to do the demonstration for us.
We are now all looking forward to our Open Day in the allotments on the 30th November and to our Christmas party for the Little Buds which is coming up very soon. n
Continue harvesting your winter salads. Tidy and clean your tunnel or greenhouse: wash the plastic or glass, clean and tidy away the pots and trays. Plant some garlic in your polytunnel, it not only gives an earlier harvest by up to 4 weeks, but will also produce much larger bulbs. December is a good month to prune your apple trees. Don’t forget to keep your birdbath topped up with fresh water.
THE BAILEY BAR & EATERY CROWNED “OVERALL BEST FOOD PUB” AT THE IRISH NATIONAL PUB AWARDS 2024
The Bailey Bar & Eatery in Enniscorthy is thrilled to have been awarded the prestigious title of “Overall Best Food Pub” at the Irish Pub Awards 2024 at a gala awards ceremony in the Mansion House in Dublin on 13th November 2024.
This honour, awarded by a distinguished panel of judges, cements the Bailey’s commitment to delivering exceptional culinary experiences in a warm, welcoming pub atmosphere.
After proudly taking home the title of South East Regional Award Winner earlier this autumn, The Bailey stood among the top seven finalists from across the country, each representing the best in Ireland’s vibrant food pub scene, before being announced as the overall Best Food winner.
This national recognition reflects The Bailey’s dedication to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, expertly crafted dishes, and an ever-evolving menu that showcases the best of Irish culinary talent.
“We’re incredibly honoured to be recognised as the best food pub in Ireland,” said Ned Hogan, General Manager. “Our team’s passion, hard work, and commitment to excellence have brought us here. This award is not only a testament to the incredible Bailey Bar team but also to our loyal patrons who have supported us through every step.”
This award celebrates The Bailey’s food while also highlighting its focus on providing an unforgettable experience for both casual and celebratory dining, by combining delicious dishes with warm hospitality.
As Ireland’s newly crowned best food pub, The Bailey Bar & Eatery looks forward to continuing to elevate pub dining
standards, setting a very high bar for quality and innovation.
Pop in to The Bailey to experience the flavours, warmth, and spirit that have
made it a national favourite.
For reservations or more information, contact info@thebailey.ie or call 053 92 30353. n
Management and staff at The Bailey, Enniscorthy, enjoying their success at the Irish Pub Awards held on 13th November 2024.
The Bailey Bar & Eatery brings inventive, high-quality cuisine to a lively pub setting. Specialising in family celebrations and special occasions, it is also a popular destination for lunch and evening dining with daily specials and chef homebaked desserts among the favourites for diners.
Griffin Group Hotels reports stable profits for 2023
Liam Anthony Griffin and Michael Griffin.
Griffin Group Hotels Ltd, one of Ireland’s leading hospitality groups, has reported steady profits for 2023 despite a challenging economic environment marked by rising operational costs. Profit after tax for 2023 was €1.76 million, down slightly from €1.82 million in 2022 despite the Group’s turnover growth of 22%, reaching €30.48 million.
Griffin Group Hotels comprises Monart Destination Spa, Ferrycarrig Hotel, and Hotel Kilkenny. The Group is known for its commitment to sustainability, luxury accommodations, and high service standards and remains a leader in Ireland’s hospitality sector.
The slight drop in profit is attributed to several factors, including wage increases, surging prices, and the end of government wage subsidy supports that were in place for the first half of 2022. However, the Group remains committed to reinvesting profits into long-term sustainability projects and operational enhancements, which it sees as key to its future growth strategy.
Michael Griffin, CEO of Griffin Group Hotels, addressed the 2023 annual results filed with the CRO: “The Group anticipated a drop in profitability due to continuous rising operational costs and the removal of government support schemes. Our priority is not short-term gains but long-term stability and sustainability. Our profits are reinvested into projects to ensure the Group’s efficiency, sustainability, and future growth.”
Reinvestment in Properties and Long-Term Sustainability:
The Group has adopted a reinvestment strategy to enhance both guest experiences and the environmental efficiency of its properties. Key projects completed during 2023 include: The complete refurbishment of 68 guest rooms at the award-
winning Monart Destination Spa.
A complete renovation of the main Rosehill Bar and restaurant at Hotel Kilkenny.
The installation of an outdoor gym space at Ferrycarrig Hotel, alongside extensive bedroom upgrades.
“These investments underscore our commitment to continually improving our offerings, but they also reflect our focus on building a sustainable future,” said Griffin. “We are reinvesting the profits into projects that will help us achieve our long-term vision.”
Continued Focus on Sustainability:
A cornerstone of Griffin Group’s strategy is its focus on carbon reduction and energy efficiency. The Group made significant strides in 2023 by directing profits toward sustainability initiatives, such as:
Installing a 500KW solar PV system at Monart which supplies all daytime electricity needs at total capacity. The solar farm will receive a further €1.2 million investment with an expansion of the existing solar capacity by 1.1MWh in 2025/26 to increase energy self-sufficiency for the Group further.
Upgrading energy systems, including installing high-efficiency boilers, low-energy refrigeration, and energy-saving pumps throughout the Group.
Despite current economic challenges, Griffin Group Hotels is positioning itself for continued growth by reinvesting profits into sustainability and property enhancements. Griffin added ,“These initiatives are vital, not just for our environmental impact, but for the future viability and resilience of our business and community.” n
Wexford-based businesswomen at ACORNS Community Gathering L-R: Triona Spellman (Darcybow), Caroline Fry
Áine Breen (Lu and Mol), Niamh Hogan (Holos Skincare), ACORNS Lead Entrepreneur Mary B Walsh (Ire Wel
Aine
Fry
Flowers), Catherine Kinsella (Saltrock Dairy) and Regina O'Connor (Regina Skin and Phibrows). Pic Orla Murray/Coalesce.
(Tara
Female entrepreneurs meet up
Wexford ACORNS networking event marks
10
years of development programme for female entrepreneurs in rural Ireland
Businesswomen from across the South East came together in Gorey recently to mark the 10th anniversary of ACORNS, the award-winning business development programme for early-stage female entrepreneurs from rural areas. ACORNS, which stands for Accelerating the Creation Of Rural Nascent Start-ups, is in its 10th year. ACORNS is a free initiative for early-stage female entrepreneurs based in rural Ireland. It has been running since 2014 and is funded through the Rural Innovation and Development Fund by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine (DAFM).
The event was designed to allow ACORNS alumni to meet peers from different years and participants in ACORNS 9 were invited to take part in
a Further Development Review Session with Lead Entrepreneur Mary B. Walsh.
Hosted at Ashdown Park Hotel, the recent event is one of a series of regional gatherings organised by ACORNS to help former participants network with peers from different cycles. The events aim to help participants broaden their networks, do business with each other, focus on their development goals and exchange ideas on overcoming business challenges.
The invitation was open to former ACORNS participants from the region
and leading the discussion was ACORNS Director Paula Fitzsimons and one of the programme’s voluntary Lead Entrepreneurs Mary B. Walsh, founder and Managing Director of Ire Wel Pallets, Ireland’s leading timber packaging supplier, which is based at Wells, Gorey.
Those who attended who run businesses in Wexford included: Triona Spellman, Darcybow, Caroline Fry, Caroline Fry Coaching, Áine Breen, Lu & Mol; Niamh Hogan, Holos Skincare; Aine Kinsella, Tara Hill Flowers, Catherine Kinsella, Saltrock Dairy and Regina O'Connor, Regina Skin and Phibrows.
ACORNS 10 is now underway. 56 early stage female entrepreneurs living in rural Ireland have been selected to participate. The new cycle got underway with a residential Launch Forum in October 2024. n
(Caroline
Coaching),
Pallets),
Kinsella
Hill
All past clients and potential new ones are invited to join Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Wexford for a festive day celebrating 10 years of supporting local enterprise in this county. The day will honour LEO’s achievements, share in the holiday cheer, and look forward to the future.
Date: Monday, 9th December 2024.
Time: 11am - 2pm (markets open to 4pm).
Location: Wexford County Council, Y35 WY93. Admission: Free.
What to Expect:
Christmas Market by Wexford Food Producers Network.
Craft Fair.
Student Micro-Business Showcase.
Showcase of LEO client stories through celebration videos, highlighting success stories.
Carol Singing by Wexford Presentation Choir. Festive lite bites and refreshments by Gather & Gaze.
Exclusive Raffle:
Secure your free ticket to be automatically entered into a raffle for amazing prizes!
So on 9th December help celebrate local business, community spirit, and the joy of the season. Book for free on:
https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/TrainingEvents/Online-Bookings/Celebrating-10-Years-ofLEO.html n
Deadline looming!
Don't miss out! The Trading Online Voucher closes Friday, 13th December! If you've been thinking about creating a bespoke website, now’s the time. Apply today and you could receive a grant of up to €2,500. Local Enterprise Office, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93. Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie. Tel: 053 9196020.
Co. Wexford Leadership Summit
Above: Pictured at the County Wexford Leadership Summit were contributors L-R: Brian McGee, Regional Enterprise Development Manager, IDA; Pauline Oakes, Vice President, Operations, EMEA/APAC region, Integer; David McRedmond, CEO, An Post; Deirdre Hannon, Plant Manager, Danone Wexford; and Pat Bevan, Managing Director, Reynaers Aluminium.
Right: County Wexford Chamber President Conor Robinson pictured with, left, County Wexford Chamber CEO Paula Roche and right, MC Orlaith Carmody.
The County Wexford Chamber Leadership Summit, held at Newbay House, Wexford, on 14 November 2024, was a remarkable success, bringing together business leaders and innovators from across the region.
The event, hosted by MC and Executive Coach Orlaith Carmody, featured a keynote address by An Post CEO David McRedmond, who captivated the audience with his insights on business transformation and innovation.
The summit provided attendees with actionable strategies for business growth and leadership development.
“We had the privilege of hearing from David McRedmond, who shared valuable insights into the transformation he led at An Post,” said Paula Roche, CEO of County Wexford Chamber. “Addi-
tionally, representatives from Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland outlined the supports available for businesses and discussed the importance of foreign direct investment in driving the continued economic growth of County Wexford.”
In addition to Mr. McRedmond, the summit featured contributions from notable speakers including Brian McGee, Regional Enterprise Development Manager at IDA; Gavin Walsh, Large Enterprise Account Director at LinkedIn; and Linda Earlie, Senior Executive at Enterprise Ireland.
“We were also inspired by the success stories from some of County Wexford’s most innovative and influential businesses,” added Ms. Roche. Entrepreneurs and business leaders such as Pauline Oakes, Vice President of Oper-
ations for EMEA/APAC at Integer; Pat Bevan, Managing Director of Reynaers Aluminium Ireland; Deirdre Hannon, Plant Manager at Danone; Rosie Keary, Managing Director of Kersia; Billy Hoey, Senior Project Manager – Design and Construction for Iarnród Éireann, Port Authority Rosslare Europort; Gerard Reynolds, Director of Operations at BD; Brendan Crowley, Managing Director of Wexford Bus; John Walsh, Commercial Director at ABP Food Group Ireland & Poland; David O’Connor, Managing Partner at Sheil Kinnear; and Therese Kelly, Director at Neville Hotels, shared their insights and experiences.
The event was generously supported by Wexford Bus and County Wexford Chamber Skillnet, ensuring its success and impact on the local business community. n
Funding for local animal welfare
Wexford TD and then Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne confirmed on 8th November 2024 that six County Wexford animal welfare charities will share in a funding allocation worth €203,956.
“I’m delighted that Wexford SPCA will benefit from a grant worth €98,375. I have previously visited Wexford SPCA and I’ve seen firsthand the great work that they do in sheltering abused animals from Wexford town and district. New Ross SPCA will also benefit from a grant worth €10,000.
“These grants support County Wexford animal welfare organisations in the vital work they do, including the protection, rescue, and care of animals. These charities also provide education and guidance to prevent welfare problems from arising in the future. The awards this year continue to focus on rewarding those organisations that have been successful in rehoming, providing educational initiatives, and promoting awareness of responsible pet ownership during 2024. I recognise that again this year, animal welfare charities have had additional pressures to deal with, and I would like to thank their staff and volunteers for their dedication.”
“Meanwhile North Wexford SPCA will receive a grant to the value of €49,500. Seal Rescue Ireland is granted €33,906. Chippers Sanctuary in Gorey is approved for €6,175 while Ten Lives Cat Rescue in Monamolin is awarded €6,000. n
South East Animal Rescue
South East Animal Rescue rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes animals in the South East of Ireland. Their fundraising shop at 27 Court St, Enniscorthy, always has lots of bargains available.
Email: southeastanimalrescue@gmail.com Keep up to date on their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064583773930 n
Adopting rescue dogs
Petmania's 2024 Pet Rescue Landscape report reveals that 62% of Irish pet owners have adopted rescues, highlighting a growing commitment to animal welfare in Ireland.
The report is based on surveys of 943 pet owners and 38 rescue centres nationwide, providing insights into Ireland's evolving approach to animal welfare and identifying areas for potential public and policy engagement.
RTÉ 2FM presenter and Petmania ambassador Laura Fox, along with her rescue dog Thor, is championing the cause to encourage greater support for rescue centres. n
RTÉ 2FM Presenter Laura Fox and her rescue dog Thor.
It’s December again! Another year that has flown by with lots of twists and turns, highs and lows. Like each year, and probably each day, it has its own challenges but when we refocus these challenges and see them as opportunities it often helps to take the big stress and sting out of them... not always easy but for sure it does help.
We said goodbye to some members of staff – vets and lay staff who'd become valued parts of the team but for various reasons they were ready to move on, go travelling, or look for new opportunities closer to home.
So as one door closes another one opens and new vets have come onboard and new personnel in the office too. It’s al-
ways easier to deal with a familiar face that you’ve learned to trust over the years and so sometimes it takes a leap of faith to start afresh with a new member of staff, so to the many loyal and valued clients and customers we owe you a huge gratitude for placing that trust in us and our team and all that we do.
This time of year, the office gets a deluge of lovely cards, notes, and presents, and it’s a lovely sentiment and again is very much appreciated by all the staff. So I just want to wish all our loyal and cherished clients and customers a very happy Christmas. I hope it’s a magical time for you all, and from all at the Moyne Veterinary Hospital – a huge thank you for all your kindness, custom, and trust in us and our team.
Happy Christmas to one and all and may 2025 bring happiness and harmony. 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):
with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital
The Peugeot 3008 is a bestseller for Peugeot in Ireland and there’s now a new one on sale. Available as both a petrol mild hybrid and full electric, the new 3008 sports sharper coupélike styling and retains its upmarket
Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings us reviews of the latest new cars to arrive in Ireland. Caroline is the founder and editor of the online automotive magazine Changing Lanes and a jury member for Irish Car of the Year.
Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at www.changinglanes.ie
CAROLINE GETS MOTORING PEUGEOT 3008
appeal with a smart new cabin design.
Times have changed and the new 3008 is the first to launch with no diesel engine on sale. The entry into the range is now a 1.2-litre petrol
mild hybrid with a six-speed automatic gearbox, priced from €43,995 in the Allure trim level.
The new fully electric E-3008 is not much more expensive to buy, priced from €44,995, and still manages to
offer a range up to 527 kilometres in its most basic form.
The 3008 has evolved into more of a coupé-SUV and does away with the traditional boxy SUV silhouette in favour of a sharp sloping roofline that makes the car even more aerodynamic. At the front, it’s noticeably different with new LED lighting and signature Peugeot clawlike daytime running lights.
Allure models are nicely specced with 19-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, body-coloured grille and roof spoiler. It’s a very stylish and upmarket car among its rivals and stands out as something a bit special.
Inside, the 3008 truly shines with a new version of the brand’s wellknown i-Cockpit. It feels as if the cabin wraps around you for a cosy, sporty feel behind the wheel. There’s a compact steering wheel and 21-inch screen that includes a digital driver display that blends into the central touchscreen. There’s loads of nice fabrics and materials used so it feels top notch.
Technology features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard. Most of the
car’s functions are accessed through the screen like media, maps and ventilation controls, but Peugeot’s clever i-Toggle switches allow you to create handy shortcuts to your favourite features.
The back of the car will seat three though some rivals like the new Opel Grandland do feel airier and more spacious for passengers. The
520-litre boot is also a good size.
On the road, the E3008 feels more at the upper end of the segment for refinement and handling. It’s neat and agile to drive with well-weighted steering that makes it easy to park in town or steer down a country road. It’s not the most softly sprung SUV but bumps in the road only cause a minor disturbance in the cabin.
The electric 3008 is a quiet, smooth experience behind the wheel. It uses a 73kWh battery, whose real world range was close to 412 kilometres based on the consumption figures I noted during my test drive. AC charging is possible up to 11kW, while DC fast charging is up to 160kW for a 20% to 80% charge in 30 minutes.
All in all, the new Peugeot 3008 gives customers options, whether that’s to go fully electric or stick with a petrol hybrid for now.
On design and cabin finish, it’s a cut above most of its rivals and is really very nice to drive. There’s a lot of competition these days, but the 3008’s bestseller status looks to be secure. n
Interior
Gerard Murphy Memorial Show
Enniscorthy, Sunday 6th October
Last month Brid Murphy presented the proceeds from the Gerard Murphy Memorial Show, held in Enniscorthy on Sunday October 6th, to Slaney Search & Rescue, Wexford Marine Watch, It's Good To Talk and The Samaritans. A whopping total of €25,000 was donated which Brid and her family and helpers hope will help in the fight and drive against suicide.
They would like to thank everyone who made the charity donations possible. n
Directors
Aoife lines out for Ferrybank Motors
Irish Rugby star, Aoife Wafer, recently crowned Guinness Rugby Writers of Ireland Women’s 15s Player of the Year 2024 and named in the World Dream Team at the 2024 World Rugby Awards, has been appointed an Opel brand ambassador at Main Opel Dealer, Ferrybank Motors Opel, and presented with a new Opel Mokka. A proud sponsor of Irish Rugby and the official car partner to the IRFU, Opel Ireland and the team at Ferrybank Motors warmly welcomes Aoife to her new ambassador role at the Main Opel Dealer in Wexford.
Aoife joins her Irish rugby teammates, Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe, Stacey Flood, Linda Djougang, Aoife Dalton, and Beibhinn Parsons, as an Opel brand ambassador.
Aoife, from Ballygarrett, County Wexford, a physiotherapy student at UCD, started playing rugby at Gorey RFC at the very young age of six, initially playing for the boys’ team, before switching to the Under-15s girls, then moving to Enniscorthy RFC at the Under-16s level.
Aoife played for Blackrock College and Leinster Rugby where she was Under-18s captain for both 15s and 7s, before becoming the first women’s Ireland captain at Under-18s level in 2020, when she was just 16.
Earning her first senior Ireland cap in a 29-8 win against Italy in 2022, talented Aoife has flourished, illustrating incredible tenacity and flexibility, switching from flanker to number eight for Ireland’s attacking scrums. Competing at the 2024 Guinness Women’s Six Nations Championship, Aoife was nominated Ireland’s player of the tournament, seeing her country finish third in the championship to qualify for the 2025 Rugby World Cup. Selected to compete at the WXV1 tournament in Canada in September, she scored twice in an unforgettable game as they beat New Zealand.
Indeed, 2024 has been a glittering year for 21-year-old Aoife. Propelled to rugby stardom and named in the World Dream
Team at the 2024 World Rugby Awards in Monaco, Aoife closes the year with the Guinness Rugby Writers of Ireland’s Women’s 15s Player of the Year title, adding more accolades to her Leinster Young Player of the Year, the Rugby Players’ Ireland Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year 2024 titles.
Wendy O’Rourke, Ferrybank Motors Director, said: “As official Car Partner to the IRFU, Opel continues to strengthen its commitment to Irish rugby... We are delighted to announce Aoife’s ambassador appointment at Ferrybank Motors Opel, yet another demonstration of our particular support for the Women’s 7s and XVs teams.”
Aoife Wafer, Irish Rugby star, has been appointed Opel Brand Ambassador at Ferrybank Motors, Wexford. Aoife receives the keys of her new Opel Mokka from Lesley Walker, Ferrybank Motors.
She continued: “Aoife’s rugby flair and sheer determination have seen her rise speedily to the very top of her game. I welcome her warmly to Team Opel and I wish her continued success in her rugby career and for the forthcoming Guinness Women’s Six Nations Championships next spring and for the 2025 Rugby World Cup campaign.”
Aoife said: “I am delighted to be given this opportunity to be an Opel ambassador and I am thrilled with my new Opel Mokka. Huge thanks to John, Leslie and Wendy at Ferrybank Motors, for their support and their faith in me. I am so looking forward to working with Team Opel in my new role. n
Sports funding available
Applications from sports clubs in Co. Wexford and beyond are now being invited under the fifth Texaco Support for Sport initiative in which a fund of €130,000 will be divided in €5,000 amounts and distributed to successful applicants in each of the twenty-six counties.
Over the past four years, a gross figure of over €500,000 has been distributed to a variety of more than 100 sports clubs across Ireland, of which €5,000 each went to four successful Co. Wexford clubs: Kilmore United FC (2021), Menapians Athletic Club (2022), Aspire Gymnastics Academy, Kiltealy (2023) and Naomh Éanna GAA Club (2024).
Open to all sports clubs irrespective of sporting discipline, size, membership, age, cultural appeal or gender (including clubs that may have been unsuccessful in their application previously), the initiative is one that ‘recognises and supports the valuable contribution that sports clubs make to communities and throughout Irish society’.
Launching the 2025 initiative, James Twohig, Director of Ireland Operations, Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited – the
company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand – described the programme as one that “provides a route to vital funding for those clubs and communities that need it most”.
Following lines similar to that which proved successful over the past four years, clubs wishing to apply should first register their interest on www.TexacoSupportforSport.com, followed, before closing date, by a completed application that should include details of their sporting activity, the importance of the club in their local community, the purpose for which the funding is sought, and the use to which the funds will be put.
A sole qualifying requirement is that clubs must be properly constituted and hold a valid GS Exemption Number (Games and Sports Exemption Number) that features on the list published by the Office of the Revenue Commissioners on 30th June 2024.
Closing date for applications is 31st January 2025 with adjudication taking place thereafter.
Leading the adjudication process once again is Texaco Support for Sport ambassador, broadcaster and former Irish rugby international, Donncha O’Callaghan. Clubs that received funding to date span the spectrum of Irish sporting activity – archery, athletics, badminton, basketball, bowls, boxing, camogie, climbing, cricket, diving, gaelic football, golf, gymnastics, handball, hockey, hurling, kayaking, rowing, rugby, soccer, squash and tennis amongst them n
The Spirit of 1798 Lives On Words and pics by Maria Nolan
On the last day of November, a voluntary group who came together to keep the flame of 1798 ignited in the minds and hearts of the people of Wexford, especially the next generation, organised an event on a wet and windy Vinegar Hill to remember our Wexford dead, before the sun set on the month traditionally associated with deceased souls.
And they must have been gratified to see the wonderful turnout and the spread of ages, as pikemen and women, young and the not so young, march behind the Ballindaggin Pipe Band to Vinegar Hill where MC Barry Lacey called on guest speakers Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council Aidan Browne, local historians Brian Cleary and Jacqui Hynes, and special guest Sean MacPhilibin, who travelled with his group from Ballyboughal – the last stand of the Wexford rebels in 1798.
Prayers for all the dead of the Hill were said by Rev. Nicola Halford and Fr. Tom Dalton before historians Cleary and Hynes reminded us once again of the importance of Vinegar Hill and the Wexford Rebellion in the struggle for Irish freedom, lest we forget.
Jacqui Hynes spoke of the mass graves referred to in many historical accounts
of the time and their projected locations, debating the pros and cons of further investigations and excavations, and Brian Cleary spoke of the personal and human sacrifices of all those who lost their lives in Wexford in 1798, making a passionate plea to all to never forget what we owe them.
Sean MacPhilibin spoke of the dedication of his committee in Ballyboughal keeping the 1798 tradition alive and of their fears for the future upkeep and maintenance of monuments and graves in their area.
Wreaths were then laid by a multitude of children auguring well for the future
of the legacy of 1798, the youngest little pikeman and wreath-layer Senan being only four years old and celebrating his 4th birthday on the day.
A rousing rendition of Boolavogue was led by Niall Wall before people retired to the IFA Centre for refreshments.
Full marks to the organising committee for pulling this moving event together at the twilight of the 2024 year and I am already looking forward to 21st June 2025 as I have no doubt this hard working committee are determined to keep 1798 and the 21st June in a prominent place on the Enniscorthy calendar, as it should be. n
REMEMBRANCE EVENT
30th November 2024 on Vinegar Hill: Keeping the flame of 1798 ignited in the minds and hearts of the people of Wexford.
An end of year remembrance event dedicated to all who perished during the 1798 rebellion will take place on Vinegar Hill, Saturday November 30th @ 2 p.m.
On 29th November 2024, Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society made a presentation of Wexford artist’s Michelle O’Neill’s Croppy Boy to President Michael D. Higgins’ Aide de Camp Paul Mulligan in the State Reception Room at Áras an Uachtaráin.
A most fitting bestowal as just inside the main door of the Áras is a copy of renowned sculptor Oliver Sheppard’s original at Market Square, Enniscorthy.
It was a most memorable visit to the President’s residence made especially so by our tour guide extraordinaire ADC Paul Mulligan blending the history of the house, the history of its occupants, and the history of the nation with interesting and amusing anecdotes sprinkled
throughout the intriguing mix.
A splendid array of tasty nibbles was laid out for us on arrival on the Mansion House table around which the very first Dáil cabinet gathered in 1921 and one of our members Billy Heffernan was particularly taken with the portrait of a relative of his own – President Sean T. Ó Ceallaigh. Billy took up position beside the elaborate painting for all to observe the distinct family resemblance.
How lovely it is to be able to visit the home of our Head of State and to be treated with such amazing hospitality and our sincere thanks to Heritage Tours Wexford and Cathy Keane for organising the wonderful trip.
– Words and pics by Maria Nolan
Enniscorthy re-enactors visit the Áras
Above: Billy Heffernan in front of a portrait of his relative, President Sean T. Ó Ceallaigh. Below: Maria Nolan with copy of renowned sculptor Oliver Sheppard’s ‘Crpppy Boy’.
Slaney environment
Repair Cafe Repeat Success
Sustainable Enniscorthy hosted a fourth successful Repair Cafe on Saturday 23 November in Templeshannon Community Centre. The Repair Cafe promotes the value and logic of Repair, Reuse and Re-purposing – all circular living practices, which are part of the Circular Economy, and a more sustainable way of living.
Repair Cafe volunteers Paul Clarke, Ray McGinty, Steve M. Potter, Geraldine Ruane, Josephine Whitmore, and Bonnie Fukumoto, generously shared their time, repair skills and knowledge to help people to prolong the useful life of their possessions. In total twenty items were brought for repair – eight electronic, ten clothing, one jewellery, and a sprayer.
Repair volunteer Paul Clarke, who has helped at all four Enniscorthy Repair Cafes, said, “I always enjoy the event, good company, good craic and – I almost forgot, we get to repair things, happy days.” A new repair volunteer, Steve M. Potter, travelled from Dundalk with his partner Mairead to volunteer his repair skills, and to learn how a Repair Cafe works, with the aim of setting one up Co. Louth.
Repair volunteer Josephine Whitmore said she was “delighted to volunteer today. I’m passionate about reducing waste, especially in the textile industry.”
Textile upcycling enthusiast Bonnie showcased her upcycling creations and
skills, giving visitors a tutorial on her nosew rug-making accompanied by a friendly chat.
An enthusiasm for sharing skills and for reuse, repair, and re-purposing was shared by all the repair volunteers, visitors and organisers.
Most people who brought items for repair were new to the Repair Cafe concept and were very positive about the experience. Before the event, one lady who has been a repeat Repair Cafe supporter told how “I bless Sustainable Enniscorthy every time I use my coffee pot you repaired!” She described this latest Repair Cafe as “a well spent afternoon, many thanks for the welcome, the great repairs and the help. Much appreciated”. Another person with an item for repair said ,“Well done to all involved, giving your time, knowledge and expertise. Especially to Geraldine and Ray. A fantastic initiative and just makes so much sense.” Another repair client described it as “such an interesting afternoon, thanks so much to the volunteers who put such huge work into the jobs. A great initiative! Well done all.”
Another thanked clothing repair volunteers Geraldine and Josephine “for saving my jeans from the recycle bin. I’ll get a few more wears out of them now. Great
work!” This is exactly the ethos behind the Repair Cafe – helping people to keep the items they already own and love in use for longer, and to prevent them from going to waste. This also helps reduce excessive and unnecessary consumption.
Sustainable Enniscorthy would like to thank all the repair volunteers and people who brought items for repair, all of whom helped make the Repair Cafe a success. The group aims to host another Repair Cafe in March 2025. Anyone interested in taking part is encouraged to join a free online Repair Cafe group on https://www.changex.org/ie/repaircafe/e nniscorthy-co-wexford-1
or follow Sustainable Enniscorthy on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SustainableE nniscorthy
or check out the website www.sustainableenniscorthy.com or contact them on sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com
Sustainable Enniscorthy is a voluntary community group with projects based on sustainability (energy, biodiversity and circular economy), and well-being (air quality and water quality) and actively seeks new members. n
Red Carpet for Green
On Monday 11th November the Wexford County Council Annual Environment Awards were held at the Ferrycarrig Hotel and proved to be a tremendous celebration of the environment and voluntary effort.
Over 250 children, community groups, volunteers, residents’ groups, and individuals turned up on the night to see their wonderful efforts acknowledged by Wexford County Council.
On a night which clearly the elected members also enjoyed, there were presentations and awards to 11 schools, 53 community groups and 1 individual.
Councillor Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, warmly welcomed and congratulated all the participants and went on to recognise the commitment and dedication of all committees and individuals who make such a real difference at a local level.
Carolyne Godkin, Director of Services, said, ‘I’m struck not only by the level of commitment you make on a voluntary basis but also the quality and diversity of work being carried out and indeed the creativity and innovation we see from you as dedicated local volunteers. It is the hours you spend in your communities that enhances our county, helps Keep Wexford Beautiful and ensures that we continue to be known as The Model County.’
There were many notable highlights. Enniscorthy Tidy Towns were presented with a plaque for winning the Community Group Snap Into Action competition. Gorey Tidy Towns, The Gap Tidy Towns & Heritage Group, and Hollyfort Development Group, were also presented with awards for their participation in the North Wexford 2K.
A ‘Sort Of ‘ Environment Quiz kept all guessing at the beginning of the night and prizes to the first six correct answers drawn were presented. Winners drawn were Peggy Doyle, Bernie Wade, Bernie McGee, Ella Dundon, Jodie Cashe and Kyle Cullen.
The overall winners of the Keep Wexford Beautiful Competition were Blackwater Tidy Towns, Master of Ceremonies for the night Alan McGuire stated as he announced this award. ‘The efforts of
Blackwater Tidy Towns to develop sustainability is very evident in the fact that 85% of additional planting came from last year’s saved seeds. The polytunnel is used to produce the plants required for the 70 hanging baskets and 20 window boxes. The installation of additional rainwater collection comes with a capacity of 11,000 litres. The peaceful walkways at the heart of this bustling village are havens for wildlife, as indicated by the success of the pollinator project, which is part of their ongoing Biodiversity Action Plan... Other projects include rare plant identification, installation of Barn Owl and Swift nest boxes, and information gathered from Daubenton Bat surveys has been uploaded to Bat Conservation Ireland. Thank you Blackwater Tidy Towns for your many years of hard work, showing a level of community spirit that is truly inspirational.’
The schools were well represented with eleven schools receiving presentations from Councillor Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council. Gorey Educate Together Secondary School, St Patrick’s School, Enniscorthy, and Tombrack National School, Ferns, were all recognised for receiving their first green flag and presented with a nest box sponsored by The Wexford Naturalists’ Field Club.
Coláiste an Atha, Kilmuckridge, Gorey Community School, Meánscoil Gharman Inis Córthaidh, Ramsgrange Community School, Selskar College, and St Peter’s College Wexford were awarded certificates for their participation in the Rubbish Film Festival Programme.
Niamh O’Connor, St Fintan’s National School, Taghmon, was awarded a Plaque as the overall primary school winner in the Christmas Decoration Competition 2023 in conjunction with South-East Radio for her decoration entitled ‘The White Angel.’ Certificates were presented to Ella Dundon, Our Lady of Lourdes National School, Bunclody, who was the Overall Primary School Winner in the Environment Artwork Competition and Júliá Rós Ásmundsdóttir, Coláiste an Atha, Kilmuckridge, who was the overall secondary school winner of the Environment Artwork Competition. Kilmyshall National School was also awarded a Plaque for being Wexford’s Cleanest School.
An Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution to Wexford’s Environment was presented to Jim Hurley.
The feeling leaving the Ferrycarrig Hotel was certainly one of satisfaction for work well done and roll on next year. The environment is in very good hands.
Overall Winner, Blackwater Tidy Towns. Back row L-R: Cllr George Lawlor; Cllr. Oliver Walsh; Cllr Pip Breen; Cllr. Jim Codd. Front row L-R: Cllr. Cathal Byrne; Aoife Hennessy (Environment Section
Communities
LIST OF AWARD WINNERS
GREEN SCHOOLS
Gorey Educate Together Secondary School
St.Patrick’s School, Enniscorthy Tombrack National School, Ferns
ANNUAL ENVIRONMENT ARTWORK COMPETITION
Overall Primary School Winner – Ella Dundon, Our Lady of Lourdes National School, Bunclody
Overall Secondary School Winner – Júlía Rós Ásmundsdóttir, Coláiste an Átha, Kilmuckridge
CHRISTMAS DECORATION COMPETITION in conjunction with South East Radio
Overall Primary School Winner – Niamh O’ Connor, St Fintan’s National School, Taghmon
WEXFORD’S CLEANEST SCHOOL Kilmyshall National School
RUBBISH FILM FESTIVAL
Colaiste an Atha, Kilmuckridge
Gorey Community School
Meánscoil Gharman, Inis Córthaidh Ramsgrange Community School
Selskar College, Wexford
St Peter’s College, Wexford
SNAP INTO ACTION COMPETITION
Community Group Winner – Enniscorthy Tidy Towns
KEEP WEXFORD BEAUTIFUL COMPETITION:
BEST OVERALL ENTRY
Overall Winner – Blackwater Tidy Towns
BEST ENVIRONMENTALLY AWARE AND PRESENTED HOUSING ESTATE
1st Westwinds Residents’ Association
2nd St Brendan's Residents’ Association
Joint 3rd Watch House Village Residents’ Group
Joint 3rd Bridgemeadow Residents’ Association
Highly Commended Croghan View Residents’ Association
Highly Commended Ounavarra Park Residents’ Association
BEST ENVIRONMENTALLY AWARE AND PRESENTED TOWN/VILLAGE
1st Kilanerin Tidy Towns
2nd Gorey Tidy Towns
Jont 3rd Kiltealy Tidy Towns
Joint 3rd Kilmuckridge Tidy Towns
Highly Commended Ballyduff Development Group
Highly Commended Ballymurn Tidy Towns
BEST COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENT INITIATIVE
1st Enniscorthy Community Allotments
2nd Croghan Barrack Community Project
3rd Killanne Development Group
Highly Commended Clonroche Development Association
BEST COMMUNITY BIODIVERSITY PROJECT 1st Enniscorthy Tidy Towns
2nd Carrig-on-Bannow Tidy Towns
3rd Gorey Tidy Towns
Highly Commended Campile Area Development Group
BEST COMMUNITY WASTE PREVENTION/RE-USE PROJECT
1st
Sustainable Enniscorthy
2nd Foulksmills Tidy Towns
Joint 3rd Tomhaggard Clean Coasts Group
Joint 3rd
Ballygarrett Tidy Towns
Highly Commended Ballindaggin Development Group and Tidy Towns
North Wexford 2K Clean 1st
Gorey Tidy Towns
2nd The Gap Tidy Towns & Heritage Group
3rd
Hollyfort Development Group
OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTION TO WEXFORD’S ENVIRONMENT – Jim Hurley. n
€260,000 approved for 4 Wexford rural water projects
Wexford TD and then Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has confirmed that four County Wexford rural water service projects will benefit from investment under the Multi-annual Rural Water Programme.
“Wexford County Council has been working with County Wexford’s group water schemes to lodge applications for funding for capital improvement projects. My Fianna Fáil colleagues and I are committed to improving our rural infrastructure to improve our county’s social, environmental and economic development.
“We need to do everything we can to protect our water sources and ensure the highest standards in water treatment.
€204,656 has been allocated towards water treatment provision, improvements and capital replacement works for the group water schemes based in Blackstairs, Borrmount, Kilanerin and Mullawn. Meanwhile source protection works to the value of €20,270 are approved for Mullawn Group Water Scheme and €35,153 will support similar works for Borrmount Group Water Scheme.”
“I am very conscious of the need to protect our water sources and ensure the highest standards in water treatment. I also want to ensure that our rural communities have the benefit of high quality infrastructure and water services. I have no doubt that the investment announced today will help improve these water ser-
These six ‘R’s can save our planet!
Refuse single use plastics (bags, cups, etc)
Rethink your choices
Reuse as much as possible
Repair before you replace
Recycle all packaging and plastic bottles
Rot all your organic stuff and put it back into the soil n
vices, which will continue to support and encourage people to live and work locally in rural County Wexford. n
Artwork project
The Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group has embarked on an exciting community artwork project with thanks to Creative Places Enniscorthy and Enniscorthy Municipal District. The idea is to turn the various ugly-looking utility boxes around the town into interesting works of art.
The first such box has now been completed near the AIB bank at Slaney Place thanks to magnificent artwork from the talented local man Conor Gibson. Up next is the ESB substation at Fair Green so keep your eyes peeled for that. n
No more excuses!
With the support of the Environment Department of Wexford County Council, Mutt Mitt 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
James Browne TD
Do your town a favour
Do you have a few hours to spare a month? Find yourself bored mid week evenings or at the weekend? Want to make your town a better place? Please contact Enniscorthy Tidy Towns: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown Email: enniscorthytt@gmail.com n
Please note...
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.
Applications open for €5m SSE Airtricity Generation Green Community Fund!
The SSE Airtricity Generation Green Community Fund has been established to support communities across the island of Ireland in their journey towards sustainability.
The fund is designed to empower local communities to take an active role in the Green Transition – a collective shift toward greener, more sustainable living.
The Generation Green Community Fund is open to a wide range of groups – whether projects are part of a grassroots organisation working on environmental awareness, a school looking to integrate sustainability into the curriculum, or a social enterprise creating green solutions, this fund is here to support their vision.
Closing Date: 10th January, 2025. n
Need to upgrade your cold house?
Enniscorthy Credit Union has a Green Loan designed to help you do just that – with one of its lowest rates for a loan 5.25% (5.4% APR). So save money, save energy and save the environment with Enniscorthy Credit Union!
Talk to them today or apply online. Tel: 053 9233835 Email: loans@enniscorthycu.ie n
Please keep in mind Wexford County Council's Community Grant & Funding webpage when looking to source details of community grant and funding schemes that may be relevant to climate action measures.
This webpage is a valuable source of information detailing what schemes are currently available, terms and conditions etc., and very importantly.....deadlines!
To access the webpage, please click here: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/community-grants-andfunding n
Award winners and Councillors John O’Rourke, Aidan Browne, Barbara-Anne Murphy, and Jackser Owens.
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns annual awards night
Riverside Park Hotel, 27th November 2024
See page 24 for full results
Above left: Best commmunity area/project/initiative, Enniscorthy East Community Development. Above right: Conor Sinnott accepting award for Most Improved Business Premises for Kavanagh’s Garage, Island Road. Below left: Noeleen Willis accepts award for Best Presented Industrial Premises for Doyle’s MG Motor, Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. Below centre: Cllr John O’Rourke accepts award for Best Green Spaces – Schools on behalf of St Patrick’s School. Below right: Bega with his award for Best Presented Shopfront.
Jonathon Hughes (Enniscorthy Tidy Towns) and Cllr Jackser Owens with Jack Doyle accepting award for McCauley Park for Best Planning, Design and Maintenance of Green Spaces.
Slaney environment
left: Mark Stanley Nature & Biodiversity Award, Patricia Keegan accepts on behalf of Enniscorthy Library. Top centre: Ger Franklin with the Best Commercial Window/Hanging Baskets award for Dawson’s pub. Top right: Margaret Doyle, Gort na Silini, Best Residential Window/Hanging Baskets. Above left: Enniscorthy Community Allotments represented by Michael Devereaux and Annette Byrne Moran, winner of Best Community Area for Pollinators. Above centre: Rectory Heights Residents’ Association, represented by Eimear McCauley, winner of Best Residential Area for Pollinators. Above right: Bridgemeadows’ Colm McAree accepting award for Most Sustainable Estate/Street/Residential Area. Below left: Best Presented Large Garden winners Martin Redmond and Anabelle Devereaux, Summerhill. Below centre: Pat Carty with award for Gimont residential area, winner of Cleanest Estate/Street/Residential. Below right: Adjudicator’s Award for Margaret Murphy. Bottom left: Jack Doyle, Bellefield Road, winner of Best Presented Small Garden. Bottom centre: Forgelands, Michael and Ellen accepting award for Best Presented Housing Estate. Bottom right: Best presented Approach Road/Street/Lane award presented to Milehouse Residents’ Association.
