Slaney News, Issue 146, July 2022

Slaney News

ServiNg Co. wexford for the laSt 11 yearS

Issue 146 – July 2022

Marja van Kampen, Laura and Karen Franklin at movie premiere night. See page 71.

New Cathaoirleach.

See page 6.

Rory O’Connor (left) in action at the Rebellion Day in the National 1798 Rebellion Centre, Enniscorthy, on 19th June 2022. See pages 110-111 inside.

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O’Callaghan’s • The Shannon 7TH - 20TH JULY 2022

CELEBRATE SUMMER #ChooseCentra

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Coca-Cola Zero Can Pack 4 x 330ml - €1.89/ltr was €3.50 now €2.50/ Coca-Cola Can Pack 4 x 330ml - €2.27/ltr was €3.90 now €3.00

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Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva, Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc 75cl was €16.00

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WE CHOOSE TO MAKE A D FFERENCE AT WE ARE INVESTING €20 MILLION IN ENERGY AND CARBON REDUCTIONS IN OUR STORES ON OUR PATH TO NET ZERO BY 2040.

All offers on this leaflet are valid from Thursday 7th July to Wednesday 20th July 2022 unless otherwise stated.

Customer quotas may apply. Available while stocks last in O’Callaghan’s Centra The Shannon only.

Prices correct at time of going to press. See centra.ie for more. Please Drink Alcohol Sensibly.

Page 2 - 5th July 2022

PLEASE DON’T FORGET TO RECYCLE ME

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Contents of this issue of Slaney News...

News Leisure & Lifestyle Arts Food & Drink Business & Finance Pets Motoring Sport History & Heritage Environment

page 4 page 51 page 74 page 82 page 85 page 94 page 96 page 99 page 104 page 118

We would be delighted to receive stories and photos from our readers around the county. If you have anything you’d like us to share, please email slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as many photos and stories as possible.

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comment

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

Welcome to the July issue of the online-only Slaney News.

We send our congratulations to Cllr Aidan Browne on being elected Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District and to Cllr Cathal Byrne who will serve as Leas Cathaoirleach. We hope it will be a busy and successful year ahead for both of them and for the Enniscorthy District.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Cllr George Lawlor has recently been elected Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council and in an early boost for Wexford town, and the county as a whole, he was able to say, “I’m pleased to announce that the process of Compulsory Purchase of land at Killeens in Wexford town by the Council for the provision of a Wexford Campus for the South East Technological University has commenced. The process is expected to take 6 to 9 months and will see an approximately 50-acre site acquired for the new Wexford Campus of SETU. A new state of the art campus is something that I, and others, have long campaigned for so I’m delighted to see this development. Many thanks to Chief Executive Tom Enright and Deputy Chief Executive Eamonn Hore for their work and assistance with this.” This is a most welcome development, and will be a huge boost to the educational landscape and economic future of the county.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– In this issue we again have a huge Leisure / Lifestyle / Arts sections (around 30 pages) reflecting the large number of live shows, music, arts events etc taking place over the next few weeks and months.

Many venues suffered enormously during the worst of the Covid crisis so now is our chance to support these venues to ensure their future survival.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our new format. Telephone: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has nearly 10,000 Followers. And, of course, if you like our new online format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you.

– Frank Corcoran

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

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

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

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

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

SLANEY NEWS

James

Browne TD Minister of State at the Department of Justice TD for Wexford

My team and I are ready to help you

Contact me Lower Church Street, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford 053 9235046 JamesBrowneTD@oir.ie @JamesBrowneTD

Of昀ce Open Weekdays:

10am-12pm, 2pm-4pm.

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selected dates available for fundraising nights

Enjoy the Fun & the Craic at Enniscorthy Track Every Mon and Thurs in July and August – first race 8pm Racing on Sunday 31st July at 7pm – Family Fun Evening

CAFE, BAR, SHOP AND HOT FOOD AVAILABLE, AND OUTDOOR SEATING Follow us on social media for updates ➤ Enjoy our FREE Ladies Nights on 7th July and 29th August FREE admission for ladies on these nights but booking is essential

New Photo Lab now open in Rafter Street, Enniscorthy

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5th July 2022 - Page 5

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Cllr Browne takes over as Cathaoirleach

Cllr Aidan Browne (right) is the new Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District as of 27th June 2022 taking over from Cllr Cathal Byrne (left) who is the new Leas Cathaoirleach.

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Senator Malcolm Byrne If I can help in any way please let me know. Tel: 085-8245142 malcolm.byrne@oireachtas.ie Holding clinics on the last Saturday of every month: BUNCLODY Redmond’s Bar 2.00pm to 2.45pm.

FERNS Ferns Community Centre 3.00pm to 3.30pm.

CAMOLIN Jack’s Tavern 3.45pm to 4.15pm.

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Call today 053 9233593 5th July 2022 - Page 7

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The LEADER Transitional Programme Enterprise Grants Available

Up to €100,000 in grant aid available for the development of NEW & EXISTING niche businesses Priority will be given to: • New & Existing Food & Beverage Enterprises • New & Existing Rural Tourism Enterprises • New & Existing Innovative Enterprises • A particular focus will be on projects that have a capacity to sustain and create jobs, and generate positive economic benefit

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Funded by the Department of Rural & Community Development

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Remembering Joe Doyle On 3rd July 2022, Enniscorthy’s Moyne Rangers held a Family Field Day and a special charity match in memory of the late Joe Doyle. The benefiting charity was Cystic Fibrosis Ireland – a cause very close to Joe's heart. See page 102.

Left: Deirdre Breen, Bernie Millar and Kelsey Martin.

Below: Work colleagues of Joe’s in Doyle’s famous pub on Duffry Hill, L-R: Anne Ryan, Delphine Riche, Sandra McKeown, Eithne Wall, Denise Gordon.

Entertaining the crowds, John Reilly and Nicholas Flynn.

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Pride events in Co. Wexford Wexford Pride, in partnership with Be Pierced, is happy to announce a brand new LGBTQIA+ community support group at the IFA Centre in Enniscorthy. Meetings will be held fortnightly starting on July 11th at 7pm. Every segment of the LGBTQIA+ community is welcome. A spokesperson says, ‘We are conscious that for many our queer identities intersect with other experiences in socially vulnerable groups as such we are committed to cultivating a space that is open and inclusive of *all* parts of our community including those who are neurodivergent or disabled or members of the traveller, roma or bipoc communities. If you’d like to attend or have additional accessibility needs do not hesitate to contact us via wexfordpride@gmail.com’

Pride on The Quay every Sunday at 2pm at The Pantry Kiosk on Wexford Quay. ‘Join us for a cuppa in a safe space to connect with other LGBTQIA+ folks in the local area. New faces are always welcome, whether you're neurodivergent, disabled or a member of the traveller, roma or bipoc communities, we've got a seat at the table for you! Alternative location in bad weather is the additional seating area of the Pantry Restaurant on Church Lane (across the road from Centra). If you have any additional accessibility needs, please contact us via wexfordpride@gmail.com'

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Pride Art Show. Last chance to visit this great exhibition in the Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, which closes on 10th July. This is an exhibition of artwork by LGBTQIA+ artists. Some of the exhibiting artists include Rosie Dore, Tara Power, Thomas Fitzpatrick, John Aspill, Larry Dunne, Veronica Victor, Alan Robinson, Vic Kelly, Dierdre Bolger, and Rory Draper. The work on show includes many disciplines including murals, prints, drawings, and video installations, celebrating global recognition of queer lives and experiences, and the joys and struggles therein. Now in its final week – it's an exhibition you will not want to miss!'

Pride Artist Panel on Friday 8th July at 7pm via Zoom, in partnership with The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy. Coinciding with the successful run of the Pride Art Show in collaboration with the Presentation Arts Centre showcasing the works of 14 local LGBTQIA+ artists, a Pride spokesperson says, ‘We’re incredibly excited to announce an online panel discussion at 7pm, Friday, July 8th, discussing the experiences of LGBTQIA+ artists in Ireland. The panel will be taking place over zoom so to register your interest and gain access to the event send an email to wexfordpride@gmail.com with ‘Pride Art Panel’ in the subject! If you have any additional accessibility needs please don’t hesitate to contact us.’

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Council’s focus County development plan 2022-2028 on Vinegar Hill At the May 2022 meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District, the local Councillors discussed Vinegar Hill, with Council Chairman Cathal Byrne saying that he believes there are three main issues to be looked at: Access, toilets and a greater connection between the 1798 Centre and the Hill or alternatively a new interpretive centre at the Hill.

Cllr Jackser Owens said that if Vinegar Hill was situated in Killarney it would be a “goldmine” as it would be serviced properly for tourists. He was critical of the current access to the Hill noting that a 51-seater bus can’t reach the car park on the Hill. At this meeting and previous ones he was also highly critical of the lack of toilet facilities there.

It was agreed that Vinegar Hill would be given greater priority at Council meetings and Ms Carolyne Godkin, Director of Services at Wexford County Council, agreed to report back on what could be done to improve the experience there for locals and visitors alike.

In June, Cllr Jackser Owens announced that temporary toilets would be installed on Vinegar Hill shortly saying that the county manager had informed him of this at the June County Council meeting. Welcoming the news, he said, “I have been campaigning for this for a very long time.”

At the June meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District, a draft proposal was presented by Wexford County Council which envisages a set of short-term actions and a set of long-term ones.

This is only a draft proposal at this stage, and not signed off on by the Councillors. In a future issue we will carry full details of what is proposed. In the meantime, the installation of temporary toilets at Vinegar Hill is likely to take place over the coming weeks. n

unanimously adopted

On Monday 13th June 2022, the Members of Wexford County Council fulfilled one of their principal statutory functions when they unanimously adopted the Wexford County Council County Development Plan 2022-2028.

The adoption of the new Plan marks the culmination of a review process that commenced more than three years ago. A comprehensive public consultation process was undertaken which took the form of public displays, information evenings, engagement with stakeholders and service providers, consideration of more than 200 written submissions, briefing sessions for Elected Members, and the preparation of a Chief Executive’s Report on submissions received.

The views and comments of the public captured through this process were formally considered and factored into the amended document at each stage of the development of the Plan. The new Plan provides the backdrop against which all new planning applications will now be considered. It addresses a wide range of interrelated economic, social, and environmental issues within an overall framework of achieving sustainable development, social inclusion and adapting to climate change. The new Plan builds on the strategies and objectives of the previous County Development Plan 2013-2019 and reflects the current challenges and the opportunities facing the county. The Plan seeks to reconcile the need to protect the environment with the development required to meet the needs and aspirations of the people of County Wexford.

Within the Plan, a wide range of objectives have been developed in relation to climate action, housing and sustainable communities, industry, innovation and infrastructure, economic growth, clean energy, transport, clean water, quality education and good health and well-being.

The Plan focusses in particular on Housing and Social Inclusion, with Chapter 3 outlining the Council’s commitment to improving the quality of the county’s towns and villages to ensure that they are attractive and functional places where people want to live, work, access services and raise their families. The Plan restates the overall housing goal of the Council as “ensuring that every household in County Wexford will have access to secure, good quality housing suited to their needs at an affordable price in a sustainable community” and it provides for the construction of some 6,400 new homes over the lifetime of the Plan in line with projected population increases and new household formation.

Cllr Jackser Owens announcing that temporary toilets will be installed on Vinegar Hill shortly.

Then Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy, said, “This Plan seeks to ensure that the towns, villages, and rural settlements throughout the county will thrive and become more vibrant communities in which to both live and work. The County Development Plan will carefully map out how this can be achieved while safeguarding the environment, culture and heritage of the county that make County Wexford such a special place.” n

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Official opening of St. Patrick’s School

Above and right: Gathered for the official opening of St. Patrick’s School on 17th June 2022.

Left: Ciara Russell, Johnny Mythen TD, and Jacob.

Below left: Paul Kehoe TD with Bishop Ger Nash.

Below centre: Cllr Jackser Owens and Shane Fortune.

Below right: Michael Dee, Cheryl Poole, Lee Rogers and Cllr Jackser Owens.

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SlaNey NewS THE 17TH JUNE 2022 WAS A HISTORIC OCCASION WITH THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF ST PATRICK'S SCHOOL, DRUMGOOLD, ENNISCORTHY, BY MICHAEL DEE AND JUDITH PHELAN (OLDEST PUPIL IN THE SCHOOL) AND BISHOP GER NASH. THE SCHOOL'S YOUNGEST PUPIL, TJ SHEIL, WAS DUE TO ASSIST AT THE OFFICIAL OPENING BUT WAS UNABLE TO ATTEND ON THE DAY. MR LEE ROGERS, SCHOOL PRINCIPAL, ACTED AS MC FOR THE OCCASION. This hugely impressive new school is the culmination of hard work put in by people like Michael Dee over many years, which has seen the school progress from its humble origins in the Boy’s Club, Island Road, Enniscorthy, in 1967. It moved from there to its premises on Bohreen Hill and Pearse Road, before finally moving to its new location at Drumgoold just over one year ago.

The school now has 129 children enrolled and over 90 staff in total including teachers, SNAs, admin staff etc catering for children with special needs from 4 –18 years from all over Co. Wexford and south Co. Wicklow.

Check out: https://www.facebook.com/stpatsschool/ n

Above: Performing the official opening of St Patrick’s School, Enniscorthy, on 17th June 2022 were Michael Dee and the school’s oldest pupil Judith Phelan.

Below left: Minister James Browne TD and Fr Paddy Banville, Adm St Senan’s Parish, Enniscorthy.

Below right: Bishop Ger Nash gets ready to bless the school.

Bottom left: Eugene Doyle, Mary Redmond and Lee Rogers.

Bottom right: Frank Murphy, Principal St Aidan’s school, Enniscorthy, and Michael Dee.

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Ógra Fianna Fáil raises over €2,20 Coffee morning for Ukraine in the Slaney Inn, Oylegate, on 6th June 2022.

Councillors Andrew Bolger, Barbara-Anne Murphy (then Cathaoirleach, Wexford County Council), John Fleming and Willie Kavanagh, with Ruairí Ryan (Chair of Wexford Ógra Fianna Fáil), Minister James Browne TD, and supporters of the coffee morning for Ukraine.

Ruairí Ryan (Chair of Wexford Ógra Fianna Fáil), Minister James Browne TD, and Darcey Browne.

A great turnout for the coffee morning for Ukraine.

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Tommy O’Sullivan with his grandson Ruairí Ryan (Chair of Wexford Ógra Fianna Fáil).

Minister James Browne TD making sure the ladies are enjoying the occasion.

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00 for Ukraine

Ruairí Ryan (Chair of Wexford Ógra Fianna Fáil), with John Browne.

Enjoying the coffee morning for Ukraine held in the Slaney Inn, Oylegate, on 6th June 2022.

ENNISCORTHY ORGANISATIONS SEEKING HELP FOR UKRAINE Enniscorthy and District Chamber of Commerce and Enniscorthy Lions Club are doing their bit to help the people of Ukraine. The Chamber and Lions Club have opened an account in AIB Bank, Slaney Place, Enniscorthy, to accept donations which are used to finance the sending of aid trucks to Ukraine with essential supplies of donated goods using voluntary drivers. You can help by making a donation directly to the Humanitarian Fund Appeal in the Slaney Place Branch of AIB Bank, Enniscorthy, by using the details below to make a donation. By doing so you will be contributing in a very meaningful way to providing support for the hundreds of thousands of refugees who have been forced to flee their homes with little more than the clothes on their backs.

PAYMENT DETAILS: AIB Bank, Slaney Place, Enniscorthy, A/c No: 03830705.

IBAN: IE47 AIBK 9334 1403 830705. BIC: AIBK IE2D. SORT CODE: 93-34-14.

FUNDING TO HELP INTEGRATE MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES ENNISCORTHY FÁILTE CONTACT DETAILS: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthyfailte Email: enniscorthyfailte@gmail.com Tel: 087 3369907 (this number is not manned all the time so please leave a message if nobody answers straight away).

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD has confirmed that eight County Wexford community projects will receive funding under the Communities Integration Fund. €36,451 will be provided to assist County Wexford community-based organisations in welcoming and integrating migrants and refugees.

Welcoming the funding approval, Minister Browne explained how “this funding will support local communities to reconnect and to celebrate the rich cultural diversity in our society.”

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A fond farewell

Last month Kennedy College in New Ross said a fond farewell to its Principal – Enniscorthy man Michael Weafer (pictured above left) who has now taken up a new role as Principal of Selskar College, Wexford.

Enniscorthy Gardaí have a Community Policing Popup Station every second Monday from 6th June 2022 in Templeshannon Community Centre, 12 noon to 1.30pm.

Feel free to call in for a chat.

Tourism boost for Wexford town The newly reopened Tourist Office on Wexford Quay is a huge boost to local tourism and has been warmly welcomed by Cllr Leonard Kelly among others.

Cllr Kelly says, “I have been calling for this since last year, working with the Tourism Officer in Wexford County County and Visit Wexford to ensure that Wexford was not left behind.

We have a excellent tourism offering and it is great to have two wonderful passionate and knowledgeable individuals like Deirdre and Brid behind the desk supporting this.” The office on Wexford Quay is open 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday.

In related good news, The Irish Times has reported that Johnstown Castle is Ireland’s sunniest spot according to recent statistics by Met Éireann. Johnstown Castle has seen the highest annual total of sunshine in the last five years, with a daily average of 4.35 hours a day in 2021.

The ‘Visit Wexford’ app is a great way to keep up to date on all the tourism-related happenings in the county. It can be downloaded for free on Apple and Android devices via the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. And make sure to check out VisitWexford.ie n

Deirdre and Brid in the Wexford Quay tourist office.

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SLEEP WALKING INTO A GLOBAL RECESSION? In January I wrote an article on how inflation was spiralling out of control. The pundits suggested that it was a temporary glitch and by the second quarter of 2022 it would subside. We are now in the third quarter and they are now handing out tips as to how to save money day by day.

TOWN TALK

Economics is not my forte but it is clear that decisions being taken today are leading us on a path to a global recession. In this article I will try to explain this and why in another article I showed concern at China’s role in this developing story.

In order to declare a recession an economy must have at least two consecutive quarters in either zero or negative growth. I can predict that before the end of 2023 over 80% of the nations of the world will fill this requirement. In any one’s language this qualifies to be deemed as a global recession.

The Covid pandemic kick-started this crisis. Countries were allowed to borrow money to stimulate the economy. This decision kept a recession at bay the likes of which we have not seen for generations. Data in Ireland shows that many people were able to reduce their borrowings during this period on the strength of pandemic payments.

This cheap money has now got more expensive at a time when it is to be paid back. Countries must fall back into line with the borrowing to GDP ratio guidelines set out by the world banks. My biggest problem with the

WITH KEITH DOYLE actions of the Fed (Federal Reserve System) in America and ECB (European Central Bank) in Europe is that it will prolong this crisis because their measures will overshoot the mark. People that are already marching on the streets protesting their financial struggles will be made worse off.

The main stated objective for both organisations is to bring Inflation under control. Rule one in their handbook is to raise interest rates to dampen demand. They both raised it by 0.75% points and suggested to expect similar rises in July and September. The stock markets were spooked and record trading losses are now the norm. This is affecting Irish pension portfolios. I suggest that factors outside the norm are already causing spending to slow and these impending hikes will be like using a sledge hammer to crack a peanut.

So where does China come into all of this? We already see the economy in China contracting. The pandemic is still shutting down availability of goods and spare parts. The prices of goods from China continue rising, that’s if you can get them. Demand outstripping supply will keep prices high for the forseeable future until supply issues are resolved. All this is already causing the economy to slow down and will continue to do so.

I did suggest when I wrote about the war to keep one eye on China and its claim on Taiwan. America has made strong threats to China of late in protecting the independence of Taiwan. China will learn from Russia’s mistakes. They will not be caught with sanctions causing assets and bank accounts to be ceased. China has TRILLIONS of dollars floating around many economies worldwide and if that is pulled back into China we will be in for a very hard and protracted landing indeed. n

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Sustainability momentum The Sustainable Enniscorthy group is gathering momentum and this was evident at the excellent turnout for their Open Meeting on 20th June in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy.

A spokesperson for the group said, “Thanks to all who joined our Open Meeting. Great attendance, ideas, suggestions, encouragement, community connections and contacts sharing and commitment to work together on future sustainability projects in Enniscorthy.”

“We want Enniscorthy to become a sustainable town, a great place to live and an example to other towns across the country of what can be done. We hope to use the UN Sustainable Development Goals as a guide to recognise all the

great things about our town and to help drive positive improvements.”

programme and the Percent for Art scheme.

Highlights from the group’s strategy document are now on its website https://www.myenniscorthytown.com/ including actions for 2022. “Our complete strategy document with our full wish-list of projects will be on our website soon so you can to see what you can get involved in.”

This public art programme will address the overarching theme of Decarbonisation and will have public art outcomes.

The aim of this public art commission is to raise awareness and encourage behaviour change amongst local communities in the Enniscorthy area in real and tangible ways through creative processes. Enniscorthy town has been nominated by Wexford County Council as Wexford’s pilot Decarbonisation Zone (DZ).

One project the group is involved in is the Creative Climate Action public art and community decarbonisation project with artist Elaine Harrington, which is also supported by Wexford County Council and by 3 Counties Energy Agency. This project is jointly funded by Wexford Co. Council’s Creative Ireland

The Enniscorthy group has also been approved funding by the SEAI for an Energy Master Plan for the town. Further details in next month’s issue. n

Attendees at the Sustainable Enniscorthy public meeting on 20th June 2022.

New Meánscoil Gharman – making progress Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has confirmed that the major building project for the new Meánscoil Gharman at the Moyne, Enniscorthy, will be delivered under a fast track Department of Education development programme.

A new post-primary school building catering for 400 pupils and two special educational needs pupils will be delivered under the Department's ADAPT Programme. ADAPT is an acronym for the

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"Accelerated Delivery of Architectural Planning and Tendering”.

Commenting on the progress, Minister Browne explained how the Department’s ADAPT programme will “use a professional external Project Manager to co-ordinate and drive the Design Team working on the Meánscoil Gharman project. It’s very positive that Minister Foley and the Department of Education has included Meánscoil Gharman in the ADAPT scheme to achieve the best possible time-

frame for the progression of the project through the stages of Architectural Planning, to Tender and Construction.

“The tender process to appoint a Project Manager has just been completed. The first step to be undertaken by the Project Manager will be the tender competitions for the appointment of design teams for a number of school building projects. This will include the appointment of the Design Team to progress the project for Meánscoil Gharman. n

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Funding available now to upgrade community centres Community groups and organisations in Wexford are invited to apply for a new round of funding for the upgrade and refurbishment of community centres, Fine Gael TD Paul Kehoe has said. Online registration process is now open, and closing date for applications is 14th July.

Deputy Kehoe said: “The fund will provide grants of between €10,000 and €300,000 for the upgrade of community facilities.

“Fine Gael wants to build stronger and safer communities by making our towns, villages and parishes across Wexford better places to live, work, run a business and raise a family.

“My colleague, Minister Heather Humphreys TD, has announced that registration is now open for a new €15 million capital fund for the upgrade and refurbishment of Community Centres.

“Funding is available for capital works such as improvements to communal facilities such as kitchen and toilet facilities, energy retrofitting, new windows / doors / heating systems, works to address safety concerns and works to improve disability access.

well placed to submit a strong application to this Fund.”

“All interested applicants in Wexford must register online at gov.ie/CommunityCentresFund before 14th July. Registration for the fund must be completed prior to submitting a formal application.

“Above all, this Fund will breathe new life into towns and villages, bring communities together, and create a welcoming space for people to socialise.

“I would strongly encourage local groups and organisations in Wexford to attend these information sessions and learn about the application process and criteria before submitting their formal application. Applicants can also register to attend an information session at gov.ie/CommunityCentresFund.

“Completing these two important steps will help to ensure your organisation is

Minister Humphreys said: “I believe this initiative will have a hugely positive impact in communities the length and breadth of the country.

“For any community group that still has questions about their applications, I’m urging you today to attend the final online information clinic, which is taking place on Monday, July 11th.”

The final support clinic will take place on Monday 11th July 2022 from 12.30pm to 2pm and groups must register here to attend https://ti.to/pobal/communitycentres-investment-fund-online-application-support-clinics n

Paul Kehoe TD

5th July 2022 - Page 19

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FR. MURPHY CENTRE, BOOLAVOGUE, NOW OPEN The Fr. Murphy Centre, Boolavogue, reopened on March 16 and is open 7 days a week, 10am to 5pm. n

Slaney Search & Rescue AGM The AGM of Slaney Search & Rescue will take place in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on Wednesday 13th July at 7.30pm. n

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

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

Oulart storytelling house reopening on 11th July Bygone Days Storytelling House in Oulart is reopening, after a long closure, on the 11th July at 8pm. A great welcome awaits all, with good music, songs, stories and plenty of craic, tea and refreshments served. The organisers hope to see a big attendance on the night. All are welcome. n

Enniscorthy Community College Great range of courses available at Enniscorthy Community College. Check them out at: https://www.enniscorthyccfe.ie/prospectus/mobile/index.html n

Enniscorthy Credit Union Áine Doyle of Enniscorthy Credit Union discusses the changing face of credit unions. Check it out at: https://player.fm/series/business-matters-with-karlfitzpatrick/aine-doyle-of-enniscorthy-credit-union-discusses-the-changing-face-of-credit-unions n

WEXFORD ÓGRA FIANNA FÁIL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

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SlaNey NewS POPULATION GROWTH You read it here first. In last month’s column I referred to the increase in Wexford’s population and the fact that such an increase might necessitate a change in our political representation.

Since then the official figures have been released showing the county population at 163,000 which is a healthy sign for the future. On the political front our public representatives will be closely watching where the lines are drawn if Wexford is to become two three-seat constituencies instead of the present five-seater. That dividing line will be all important particularly for Enniscorthy-based candidates who could find themselves cut off from thousands of their traditional voters in the southern half of the county. Time will tell us more but the political days ahead will be interesting.

VACCINES AND COVID We are still being bamboozled with advertisements and medical opinions about Covid. There is a big push on at the moment to persuade people over 65 to have a fourth dose of the vaccine. At the same time experts seem to be saying that the vaccine actually has little effect in preventing Covid but will help prevent serious illness if you do catch it. We don’t know that of course because obviously if you have been vaccinated and get the disease that is all that you can relate to. N.I.A.C. has now been asked by Stephen Donnelly, the health minister, to look at the possibility of recommending a fourth jab to those under 65. Without preempting the outcome of that consideration, my opinion is that there will be a strong resistance from younger people in particular to being vaccinated again. The feedback that I am getting from circles in which I mix is that a large percentage of the younger generation is concerned at the apparent in-

View from the Centre

being more expensive. Maybe if they paid their “stars” a little less they could make ends meet. They already receive €200m a year in licence fees.

Personally, I think that this is enough.

Other private TV and radio stations get nothing from the licence revenue and have to make do with income from advertising. So, it’s difficult to understand why they are whinging so much.

FACILITIES AT VINEGAR HILL

A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond crease in sudden unexplained deaths amongst young sportspeople in particular. This is a huge disincentive to getting them to roll up to the vaccination centres or surgeries. Personally, I do not blame them because no one has convinced me yet, despite having received three shots of this stuff, that it is completely safe.

After much urging by Cllr. Jackser Owens, the Council are to install a toilet at Vinegar Hill. It is incredible that such a historic site had to wait until 2022 to have such a basic facility provided. Let’s hope that over the next short period of time that a proper plan will be drawn up for this area where such historic events took place. As Cllr.

Owens said, “If it was in Kerry there would be facilities on site to cater for thousands of people.” So hopefully now things there will improve to allow such a historic place be properly opened to the public.

GAA FRACAS

Much has been written and said about the recent fracas at the end of the Armagh/Galway football match. Of course, no one could or should excuse this incident and in fairness to the GAA they are taking it seriously. It should be pointed out however that TELEVISION LICENCE each week in Ireland hundreds of football and hurling games are played RTE are continuously complaining from juvenile to senior without an about the television licence fee not angry word being spoken. However, we’ll always have the geniuses, some of whom never played a game in their lives, giving their expert view on how badly run the GAA is. Best way to shut them up is to try and ensure that such incidents do not occur, and continue to urge our young people to participate in what is a good and healthy pastime. n Some of RTE’s “stars” laughing all the way to the bank!

5th July 2022 - Page 21

SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad Day Today shop owners Kieran Walsh and Frank Jordan.

Local shop sells €5.6m ticket!

Frank Jordan with John Morrissey.

The Day Today shop, situated at the old bridge in Enniscorthy, sold a €5.6m winning Lotto ticket at the end of June and the good news is that it’s a local winner! Our photos show the shop owners, Kieran Walsh and Frank Jordan, with staff colleagues John Morrissey, Paige Dunbar, Patricia Carbery, and Cora Redmond.

The shop has a great track record in selling big-winning tickets. Many years ago it was known as "Lucky Bob's" as it had several big winners in the old Irish Hospitals’ Sweepstake. Later, under the ownership of Jim Byrne, it had a million-euro winner in the late 1980s and several other big winners since.

Nowadays the shop has established a big deli business under the expert management of John Morrissey of River Restaurant fame.

Michael Molloy of the National Lottery pops the cork for L-R: Paige Dunbar, Kieran Walsh, Patricia Carbery, Frank Jordan, John Morrissey and Cora Redmond.

Best of luck to all in Day Today and to the lucky €5.6m winner! n

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The ‘Battle of Enniscorthy’ On 2nd July 2022 as part of the Wexford Literary Arts Festival, the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Enniscorthy which raged for four days from 1st-4th July 1922 between pro- and antitreaty forces, was commemorated with a re-enactment in the town

by Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society and Lord Edward’s Own.

Guest speakers: Above left, Carmel Smyth, author. Above right: Sean Hauughey TD, grandson of Sean Lemass.

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Enniscorthy’s Rockin’ Food Festival returns Enniscorthy Town will be buzzing with the return of the Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival on Friday 29th July, running over the August Bank Holiday Weekend.

The weekend includes a host of family activities, kids’ entertainment, chef demos, a gig trail of over 40 Rock ‘n’ Roll gigs in pubs around town, and live outdoor music and dancing in the Market Square.

The Food Marquee is back and plays host to two days of free, live cooking demonstrations from local and celebrity chefs including Kevin Dundon, Edward Hayden and Wexford’s own Paul Hynes, owner of La Cote Restaurant who was recently named Chef of the Year at the Yes Chef Magazine Awards, and many other local food producers who share their tips and tricks throughout the weekend.

Explore local, Irish and international food cultures with an array of food ven-

Page 24 - 5th July 2022

dors. This year there are more than 50 food and craft vendors so you can try local BBQs, Hungary Bites, Little Catch Seafood, Brown Stone Pizza, Knockout Pizza, and the always popular Pofferties Dutch Pancakes, among many others.

Families are at the centre of the weekend and will enjoy a variety of free and low-cost activities. The always popular Fun Fair is back, with some new vintage additions as well as Family Kayaking on the River Slaney, Arts & Crafts in The Castle, Sip & Paint on the rooftop of the Castle, Kids Discos and much more.

tracts the best Irish and international Jive Dancers for the Jive Competition and onlookers can take part with free Adult & Kids Dance Lessons in the Market Square. The organisers are delighted to have 12 pubs in Enniscorthy involved in the festival creating an atmosphere like no other throughout the weekend.

As always, the beautiful sounds of Rock ‘n’ Roll will sweep through the streets of Enniscorthy with several high-profile international Rock ‘n’ Roll bands including the popular Midnite Crawlers, Memphis Lee & The Creepers, The Class of 58 and popular Irish bands The Backbeats, The Moonrockers and Joe Fury & The Hayride. The festival at-

Enniscorthy Castle plays host to the fantastic exhibition "That's true, you know" curated by Michael Fortune. His fantastic exhibition explores Irish folklore and superstitions, a must-visit exhibition for everyone.

This year also sees the return of the Steam Train to Enniscorthy on Sunday

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d & Fruit 31st July. The special will be operated by steam locomotive No.85 "Merlin" and while the train arrives with visitors from Dublin, locals can book a trip to Rosslare on arguably Ireland's most scenic railway line – the sunny southeast to Rosslare Strand.

Festival Chairman Eric Barron says, “We are looking forward to a fun-filled, family weekend and are excited about showcasing the best of local food and fruit to visitors from Wexford and beyond. The delivery of the festival is a community effort, and we are grateful for the incredible support from Wexford County Council, Failte Ireland, Ireland’s Ancient East, Diageo, Creane & Creane, Wexbury, Enniscorthy Castle and many other Friends of the Festival without whom it would not be possible to deliver this festival. This is hugely important for the town of Enniscorthy, and we are delighted to be in a position this year where we can all get out

and enjoy our town and everything it has to offer.”

The full line-up and tickets will go on sale on the website www.rockinfoodandfruitfestival.ie, on Friday 15th July, so keep an eye on the website as

new events will be added daily.

There is still some availability for vendors so if anyone would like to get involved as a Food & Craft Vendor, please contact Amanda Whitmore on info@amandawhitmore.ie n

The Food Marquee is back with live cooking demonstrations from celebrity chefs including Kevin Dundon.

5th July 2022 - Page 25

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5th July 2022 - Page 27

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Caim Confirmation, 18th Jun

Winnie, Liam, Keian Dolores, Jessica a Karl Ennis.

Above: Colm O’Neill, Gail Gordon, Fionn, Shane, Adam and Jamie O’Neill.

Left: Kate Browne, Laura and Katie Carty.

Right: Grace Boland with her family.

Below: 5th Class Confirmation with teachers Aine Murphy and Aoife Freeman and Fr Brian Broaders.

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ne 2022

nna, nd

Top left: Alan and Comfirmation girl Kate Browne.

Top right: Jack and Keianna Ennis, Sharron Doyle and Stephen Ennis.

Above: 6th Class Confirmation with Fr. Brian Broaders and teacher Aine Doyle.

Above right: Gran Marie O’Brien and Jack O’Brien.

Left: Dean, Laura, Pat, Katie, Idena, Lexie and Brian Carty.

Right: Alicia Barnes and Sophie Doyle.

5th July 2022 - Page 29

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Launch of Wexford’s Age Fri Minister of State at the Department of Health with special responsibility for older people Mary Butler TD launched Wexford Co. Council’s Age Friendly Strategy 2022/2026 at Wexford County Hall on Monday May 30th.

The Minister complimented Wexford Co. Council and the Wexford Age Friendly Alliance on the preparatory work they had jointly put into the Strategy and stated that she was confident, judging by past performance, that Wexford would deliver on the commitments contained in the document over the next four years.

The aim of the Strategy is to address the needs of older people in Co. Wexford across the following themes, Outdoor Spaces and Buildings, Transportation, Housing, Social Participation, Respect and Social Inclusion, Civic Participation and Employment, Communication and Information, Community Support and Health Services and Safety and Security.

The then Chair of Wexford Co. Council Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, who opened the proceedings, complimented those who drew up the Strategy and outlined the degree of involvement herself and her council colleagues would have in ensuring its delivery.

Wexford County Council CEO Tom Enright gave a firm undertaking that no stone would be left unturned in the implementation of the recommendations of the report.

81-year-old Kevin Molloy, Chairman of the Wexford Older Peoples Council and Vice Chair of the National Federation of Older Peoples Councils, complimented Anne Marie Laffan, Co. Wexford’s Age Friendly Coordinator, on her tremendous work since her appointment a number of years ago.

Other speakers were Alice Corbett of Age Friendly Ireland and Dr. Yvonne Byrne who is a Rural Development Consultant and was involved in much of the work in drawing up the strategy. n

Top right: On 30th May 2022, Minister of State at the Department of Health Mary Butler launched the Wexfor

Above left: Tom Enright (CEO of Wexford County Council), Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (then Cathaoirleach, Wexford County Council), Minister Mary Butler Above far right: Back row Dympna O'Connor (Wexford County Council), Dr Yvonne Byrne (Rural Developement Consultant), Alice Corbett (Age Friendly Irela Peoples Council) and Ger Mackey (Wexford County Council). Front: Minister James Browne (Minister of State at the Department of Justice), Mary Butler (then Cathaoirleach, Wexford County Council), Senator Malcolm Byrne, Tom Enright (CEO Wexford County

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iendly Strategy

rd Age Friendly Strategy 2022-2026.

r and Minister James Browne (Minister of State at the Department of Justice). and), Ann Marie Laffan (Wexford County Council), Kevin Molloy (Wexford Older r (Minister of State at the Department of Health), Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy y Council). All Pics: Ger Hore.

42 Co. Wexford groups benefit from €18,120 in grants promoting physical activity among older people Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD has confirmed that 42 Co. Wexford groups will benefit from funding totalling €18,120 towards initiatives promoting sport and physical activity among older people through the Age and Opportunity Active National Grant Scheme.

Among the 42 successful Co. Wexford applications are Wexford Sports Partnership, Shamrocks Ladies Gaelic Football Club, Oakfield Nursing Home, and Knockeen Nursing Home which will all receive €1,000. Meanwhile Rathnure GAA club will receive €800 while Castletown Liam Mellows GAA club will receive €700.

Welcoming the news, Minister Browne commended the successful applicants for their “valuable work in County Wexford communities. Keeping physically active is immensely important for the health and wellbeing of older people. I’m sure today’s grant announcement will promote the spread of physical activity for older people across County Wexford.” n

Respite services are desperately needed – Deputy Johnny Mythen Sinn Féin TD for Co. Wexford Johnny Mythen spoke in the Dáil recently about the importance of respite services saying, “Ireland’s family carers, and there are over 500,000 of them, save the state millions every year.

“They do not have adequate support or respite at all in some cases. Their income is deeply inadequate, and their role needs to be more clearly understood, recognised and supported. The round the clock 24/7 nature of being a carer has to be recognised. Because of this, Respite needs to be tailored to meet the needs of the family as one size does not fit all.

“Alternative respite provision is needed in a variety of settings and for varied lengths of time, depending on the individual needs of the service user and the family or carer – In-home, home-to-home, family support, Saturday clubs, breakaway schemes and summer schemes.

“The waiting list figures for home support services in Co. Wexford were so dire that a review had to be conducted recently. The main finding of that review was that the fundamental issue is staffing. That is a huge worry for the over 600 families who are awaiting that vital service.

“The issue of recruitment and retention of staff is also evident in day and overnight respite services. Questions must be asked about why this is the case. There is a reason people are not going into this sector, and there is a reason they are leaving in their droves, and we need to get to grips with those issues and tackle them head on.

“I outlined this in the Dáil today, and I hope that the government take seriously the issues I raised. Families, and importantly, individuals themselves, are depending on them to act.” n

5th July 2022 - Page 31

Le

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Let’s get talking in Co. Wexford

Let’s Get Talking – Enniscorthy’s new non-profit counselling and psychotherapy service Let’s Get Talking personnel L-R: Cyril Hyland (CEO), Amy Kelly (Director of Communications), Ellie McLoughlin (Enniscorthy Centre Manager), Niall McNelis (Chairman), Minister of State at the Dept of Health Mary Butler TD, Claudia Malocca (Play Therapist), Claire Ryan (Co-founder and Director of Client Services), Sinéad Moloney (Director of Development).

Let's Get Talking is a nationwide nonprofit Counselling & Psychotherapy Service providing accessible, professional, non-set fee therapy nationwide since 2013.

Last month it opened a new office in Enniscorthy at 54 Wafer Street, Y21 K0F2.

Tel: 0818 714 001. Email: wexford@letsgettalking.ie. There are four counselling staff now working there including a play therapist.

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An official launch took place on 11th June 2022 in the 1798 Centre, Enniscorthy, attended by Minister Mary Butler TD, Minister James Browne TD, Johnny Mythen TD, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cllr Cathal Byrne and Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan. Paul Kehoe TD sent his apologies. And Brendan Howlin TD attended earlier in the day.

In attendance also were senior management and counsellors from Let's Get Talking, including Blackwater's Ellie

McLoughlin who is the new Manager of the Enniscorthy Centre and Cyril Hyland, CEO of Let's Get Talking. Representatives from other counselling and volunteering organisations were also at the launch.

Let’s Get Talking has centres in Dublin, Limerick, Galway, Clare, Kerry and now Enniscorthy. It held 14,500 sessions last year, and has helped 5,000 clients since it commenced in 2013. Check out: www.letsgettalking.ie n

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Top left: Minister of State at the Dept of Health Mary Butler TD. Top right: Cyril Hyland (CEO Let’s Get Talking), Ellie McLoughlin (Manager of the Enniscorthy Centre), Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Minister of State at the Dept of Health Mary Butler TD, Minister of State James Browne TD, Johnny Mythen TD. Above left: Cllr Cathal Byrne with Minister of State Mary Butler TD. Above right: Berna Rackard, Dr. Anita Corfe, Ciaran Kavanagh and Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy.

Below left: Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan, Johnny Mythen TD, Eugene McLoughlin. Below right: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Minister of State at the Dept of Health Mary Butler TD, Cyril Hyland (CEO, Let’s Get Talking). Bottom left: Some of the attendees at the launch.

Bottom right: Eva Law (Wexford Volunteer Centre), Ellie McLoughlin (Let’s Get Talking Enniscorthy Centre Manager).

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Kiltealy School Confirmation

11th June 2022: Top left: Maeve Duff (teacher) and Lucy Nolan.

Top centre: Rick Cullen and Fr Jim Fegan.

Top right: Teacher Maeve Duff, Orla Pender and Fr Jim Fegan.

Above: Kiltealy Comfirmation Class with Fr Jim Fegan.

Above right: Kiltealy school Confirmation in Kiltealy church on 11th June 2022, Kenny, Patricia, Jamie, Martin, Patrick and Conor Dunbar.

Below left: Abigail, Lisa, Rick, Brian and Libby Cullen. Below right: Andy, Robert and Oiga Buskrs, Fr Jim Fegan and teacher Maeve Duff.

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“We need vacant homes levy ASAP” – Ó Súilleabháin Gorey Sinn Féin Councillor Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin is calling for a Vacant Homes Levy to be introduced as soon as possible. His call came following publication last month of housing data from Census 2022 which showed 5,377 vacant dwellings in Co.Wexford (excluding holiday homes!)

In Wexford the preliminary figures show that the population on 3rd April was recorded at 163,527.

The population included 82,928 females and 80,599 males. This is an increase of 13,805 (+9.2%) since 2016. This was made up of a natural increase (ie births minus deaths) of 4,318 and an estimated net inward migration (ie population change minus natural increase) of 9,487.

The total housing stock in Wexford in April 2022 was 72,028.

This shows an increase of 3,822 (+5.6%) since 2016. There were 5,377 vacant dwellings, which was 541 fewer than in 2016 (-9.1%). This does not include holiday homes, of which there were 5,977.

Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin

Cllr Ó Súilleabháin first proposed having a Vacant Housing Officer in Co. Wexford as far back as July 2016. Wexford Co. Council is expected to have one in place later this year which is “long overdue” commented Cllr Ó Súilleabháin. n

Minister Browne welcomes proposal to bring in living wage for all Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD has welcomed plans to introduce a living wage for all employees, starting from next year.

“My government colleagues and I are keen to improve workers’ rights and terms and conditions. The changes below will be phased in following consultation with employer and worker representative groups, unions and the public on the draft plan. These are positive steps to protect low-income County Wexford earners.

The living wage will be set at 60% of the median wage in any given year, which in 2022 would be €12.17 per hour. The national minimum wage is currently €10.50 per hour.

The national minimum wage will remain in place until the 60% living wage is fully phased in, in 2026, but will increase over the years as usual, closing the gap between it and the living wage.

From 2026, we will no longer have a national minimum wage, the living wage will be the floor and will be mandatory for all employers.

Depending on prevailing economic circumstances, it is proposed to give the Low Pay Commission discretion to introduce the full living wage faster or slower than the four years proposed. n

Ógra Fianna Fáil present cheque for €2,450 to Red Cross Ukraine appeal See also pages 14-15

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Well deserved honour for Wexford Tidy Towns group

Civic Reception for Wexford Tidy Towns group at Wexford County Council’s head office in Carricklawn on 20th June 2022.

It was the first Civic Reception held since 2019 and it was to mark Wexford Tidy Towns winning a gold medal in last year's national competition. Philomena Murphy accepted a beautiful, locally-designed ceramic from Mayor Laffan.

Above left: Anne McCann, Garry Laffan (Mayor of Wexford), Philomena Murphy (Chairperson of Wexford Tidy Towns group), and Mary Bowie. Above right: Philomena Murphy with Cllr George Lawlor who is the new Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council.

Conall McGuinness Concert in White’s Hotel, Wexford, 26th June. L-R: Shanna McGuinness, Cllr Leonard Kelly, Sinead, Sharon, Gerry and Allison, Cllr George Lawlor MC who presented a cheque, Siofra, Shane, Sarah McGuinness and Liam in front.

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QQI Level 3 Awards at Kilcannon Congratulations to the 15 students who graduated with InTuition Vocational Training Programme QQI Level 3 Awards in Employability Skills at a ceremony in Kilcannon Training Centre, Enniscorthy, on 23rd June 2022.

Award recipients:

Margarita Sutra Teresa Ryan John Quigley Myles O’Neill Sarah O’Leary Leo Foley Annette Barnes Padraig O’Leary Aoife Mackey Ricky Hogan Damien Walsh Pauric Lawler Eoin Murphy Kevin Browne Nikita Kenny Top left: Fran O’Hagan (Team Leader, InTuition), Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (Chairperson WWETB), Trevor Jacob (CEO Co. Wexford Community Workshop).

Top right: Sarah O’Leary and Jordana Black (Team Leader at Co. Wexford Community Workshop). Above: The twelve award recipients present at the ceremony with among others Des Wheelock (course provider) second from left in back row, and Jacqui Murphy (Manager Day & Residential Services at CWCW) on extreme right. Below left: Teresa Ryan with Jordana Black (Team Leader at CWCW). Below centre: Aoife Mackey with Maria Lindell (WWETB).

Below right: John Quigley with Jordana Black (Team Leader at Co. Wexford Community Workshop).

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Delighful Dollies

Members of Enniscorthy’s Delightful Dollies group about to board their bus on 22nd June 2022

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s Day in Dublin

2 for a trip to Dublin where they visited several places including the Houses of the Oireachtas.

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The Enniscorthy Defibrillator Initiative GoFundMe fundraiser The Enniscorthy Defibrillator Initiative is raising funds to maintain and replace the units in the locality.

The Initiative owns and maintains thirteen public access defibrillators around Enniscorthy town and the greater locality including Davidstown, Tomnalossett, and Fairfield. Many of these defibrillators were installed a number of years ago and their batteries are coming due for replacement. Every time a defibrillator is used the pads which are placed on the patient's chest to deliver the shock need to be replaced and even if they never leave the packet they still need to be replaced every few years.

Please see the link below to the fundraising page for more info: https://www.gofundme.com/f/enniscorthydefibrillators n

MOVES TO MAKE REGISTRATION OF JETSKIS MANDATORY Gorey Senator Malcolm Byrne has welcomed moves by Government that will require the mandatory registration of jetskis by their owners. The move will assist where jetskis breach local byelaws designed to protect swimmers and other sea users.

Senator Byrne raised the issue as a commencement debate in the Seanad, where he pointed out that at present someone can buy a jetski with a 1000cc engine that can travel at up to 100kmph and take it out on to the water with no requirement for registration, training or insurance.

He pointed out that, “While we want to see everyone enjoying our waters, safety has to come first. There are real problems where jetskis operate in areas close to swimmers and we need to avoid accidents.”

While local authorities have the powers to introduce bye-laws on jetski use, “they are no good if they cannot be enforced”.

Senator Byrne said that we need a registration process for jetskis similar to that for motor vehicles. n

Wexford commemorates Commodore John Barry The Annual Commemoration of Commodore John Barry, the Wexford man who founded the American Navy, took place on 26th June 2022 at Crescent Quay, Wexford.

At the commemoration were L-R: Brendan Howlin TD, former Mayor of Wexford John Roche and his wife Anne, and Paul Kehoe TD. n

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George is new Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council

Wexford town Labour Councillor George Lawlor was elected last month as the new Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council.

George commented that he was “honoured to be elected the 125th Chairman of Wexford County Council” and that he was delighted to have his family join the occasion – his wife Yvonne Treacy and daughter Rachel in person, and daughters Ruth and Sarah joining online from Edinburgh and Dubai.

Above left: Brendan Howlin TD, Yvonne Treacy, George Lawlor and Rachel Lawlor.

Right: Outgoing Cathaoirleach Barbara-Anne Murphy says goodbye to the chains of office!

Below: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy received a certificate to acknowledge the huge role she played as Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council in 2021-2022 from Tom Enright, CEO of Wexford Co. Council, and new Cathaoirleach George Lawlor.

Below right: George Lawlor, the new Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council with Leas Cathaoirleach Michael Whelan. n

5th July 2022 - Page 41

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End mental health stigma!

www.seechange.ie

Launch of the See Change End Mental Health Stigma campaign on the green at Ballindaggin Church on Saturday 11th June 2022.

Above left: Senator Malcolm Byrne, Minister of State Mary Butler TD, See Change Coordinator Barbara Brennan, and Minister of State James Browne TD. Above right: Cllr Bridin Murphy, Minister of State Mary Butler TD, and Minister of State James Bowne TD. Below: Campaign organisers, supporters and public representatives gathered on the green at Ballindaggin Church on Saturday 11th June.

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Seeking volunteers Wexford General in Enniscorthy Hospital’ wait times 'unacceptable’

Wexford Volunteer Centre hosted its first ever in-person coffee morning for Volunteers in Enniscorthy on Monday the 20th of June in Templeshannon Community and Childcare Centre. This coffee morning was for anyone who wished to learn more about how to get involved in volunteering in Co. Wexford. For more information see: https://volunteerwexford.ie n

Sinn Féin TD for Co. Wexford Deputy Johnny Mythen has described wait times at the Emergency Department of Wexford General Hospital as ‘unacceptable’, saying that a plan to tackle hospital overcrowding is urgently needed.

The average wait time for admission to Wexford General Hospital A&E was 9.2 hours in May 2022.

Teachta Mythen said: "The Sláintecare target for admission to an A&E Department is less than six hours, yet we see from the latest figures supplied by the HSE that the wait time for patients who need admission into the hospital at Wexford General A&E is 9.2 hours. 29% of patients waited over 12 hours.

"It is unacceptable that patients are waiting so long for access to vital hospital care. Often injured, alone and scared.

“The frontline staff who deal with the chaos of our A&E system, who provide deep compassion and care in spite of the challenges, deserve our unwaning support. Their health and wellbeing and the pressure that they are under needs to be taken into account too.

"The lack of any coherent plan to tackle hospital overcrowding and intolerable Emergency Department wait times are completely unacceptable. This problem is not new, or news to the Minister for Health. Why has it not been dealt with?

Ewa Juodis, Volunteer Development Officer.

"We need a serious plan to reform the health service, boost capacity and staffing levels, equip our healthcare professionals and cut wait times to deliver the timely care that patients need and deserve." n

Wexford’s contented contingent!

Our photos shows a contented Labour Party contingent at the recent election of George Lawlor as the 125th Chairman of Wexford County Council.

L-R: Cllr Maura Bell, Cllr George Lawlor and Brendan Howlin TD. See more photos on page 41. n

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Galbally Tractor cavalcade A cavalcade of tractors has raised almost €2,500 for the church of St John the Baptist at Galbally in midCounty Wexford.

In blazing sunshine and blue sky, more than 60 gleaming new and vintage tractors and their owners and drivers from all over the county lined up at noon on Sunday 29th May at the splendidly renovated Galbally Sports and Leisure Centre and Fr Declan Jordan Memorial Garden beside the village. Their objective was to raise as much money as possible for the church.

Henry Rochford, one of the organisers of the cavalcade, handed out yellow hi-vis vests and big white buckets to young people to collect donations and, as usual, the people of Galbally gave generously.

Jim Rochford organised the route and the parking with Henry and Charlie Rochford. Fr Billy Caulfield CC managed paperwork and at an open-air desk, Bee Fenlon, Catherine George, Ann Marie Laffan and Mary Cronin took registrations from a queue of the drivers of the 60 or more tractors, which included Eddie Murphy and his famous vintage David Browne.

John Carr, a Peace Commissioner and

photographer from Ballyhogue, and Pat O’Connor, Press Photographer for various newspapers, sipped properly drawn tea in the kitchen of the Galbally Sports and Leisure Centre while Bee Fenlon, Peggy Boyle, Bridget Carberry and twelve others, supplied scrumptious scones draped in butter and jam for all who wanted.

The road marshals on their highpowered, roaring and throbbing motorbikes got in place and powered off, shaking up the ground, to direct traffic at crossroads, to allow the tractor cavalcade an obstacle-free trip.

And then at an hour past midday or thereabouts, the tractors revved up and in an atmosphere of rasping engines and clouds of dust, they set off from Galbally at speed, within the legal limits of course, and travelled a 30 km round trip past the fields and village of Ballyhogue, to Plummers Cross and from there to Ballinavary bridge, Ballybrennan and back home to Galbally.

dest vintage tractor in the region – a TVO Ferguson built 73 years ago in 1949.

There too were tractor aficionados John Joe O'Shea of Ballyhogue, Martin Lawlor of Adamstown, Frank Rochford of Raheenahoon, Nick Fortune and Aidan Egan of Barmoney, and Phil Jackman of Adamstown.

“It was a great day,” said Paddy Fortune of Kereight, who was chief organiser of the original Galbally Church Tractor Run more than 12 years ago with the support of the late Pat Cronin of Raheenahoon, Ned Roche and Eddie Murphy of Kereight, and Fr Matt Boggan CC, then in Galbally.

– Michael Freeman

Funds for the church were supplemented by a raffle with lots of prizes including a hamper and vouchers.

Among those present at Galbally was John Kehoe of Chapel, Adamstown, owner of what many regard as the ol-

Young enthusiast – Aoibhe Byrne.

Galbally Tractor Run 2022 starting at the Sports and Leisure Centre, Galbally, on 29th May 2022.

Above left: Parking up was Liam Kelly. Above right: Three famous men in their own right – Michael Freeman, Leo Tector and Nick Walsh.

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raises €2,500

Above left: Ned Wheeler and his Pierce 2 Furrow 1946. Above centre: Young Mark Furlong.

Above right: Courtney, Molly and Niamh Roche. Below left: Tom Walsh with his Fordson Dexta 1961.

Below right: Philip Jackman. Bottom left: Fr Billy Caulfield and his mam Ann. Bottom right: Having a cuppa before the run were Davy Power, John Walsh, Larry Bradley and Eddie Murphy.

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Annual Wexford Commemoration of Commodore John Barry

Minister James Browne TD lays a wreath.

Annual Commemoration of Commodore John Barry, the Wexford man who founded the American Navy, took place on 26th June 2022 at Crescent Quay, Wexford. Above: Mayor Garry Laffan greets Superintendent Jim Doyle, with Cllr Ger Carthy, Paul Kehoe TD and Minister James Browne TD in the background. Below: Brave members of the Holy Faith Confraternity Band brave the elements at the Barry Day commemoration.

Members of the Irish Naval service who took part in the Barry Day commemoration.

Brendan Howlin TD at the marine memorial.

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The playing of the National Anthem, L-R: Gordon Rochford MC, Mayor Garry Laffan, Minister Jack Chambers and Lt. Comm. William Curtin.

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WPHP opens new charity shop Wexford People Helping People (WPHP) is a non-profit charity organisation which was founded by Clair Malone in 2015. Currently it has 14 main committee members, as well as a junior committee. Over the last seven years WPHP has helped numerous people with food, fuel, clothing and other essential items and it is getting busier and busier.

Above: Wexford People Helping People’s mental health cafe in front of its new shop on Anne Street, Wexford.

Below left: Louise Curran and Danielle McDonald who organise the twice-weekly soup kitchen.

Below right: Lorraine Foley making the first sale at the group’s new charity shop.

Bottom: Some snacks at the WPHP soup kitchen.

This year it achieved two more milestones – becoming a registered charity and its own charity shop!

Located in Anne Street, opposite the credit union, it opened its doors on 20th June offering a selection of clothes, toys, accessories, books, kitchen utilities and more. Call in and have a browse.

Every Monday evening from 10pm to 2am, WPHP opens its Mental Health café in front of the shop. If you are struggling, need a cuppa and a chat, WPHP is there for you so please reach out if you need help. The organisation also uses funding to cover a number of counselling sessions.

A soup kitchen is provided twice a week, Thursday and Saturday evenings, organised by committee members Danielle McDonald and Louise Curran. No one should go without food and shelter. Food is provided by local businesses or organised by the committee. If you would like to support, you can either donate through PayPal, which can be found on the Facebook page ‘Wexford People Helping People’ or send a message if you can help with deliveries.

A spokesperson added, “A massive thank you to the community. It’s been another tough year and we cannot do what we do without all your generous help.”

If you would like to donate, get involved or volunteer, please contact the group through its Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/wexfordpeoplehelpingpeople n

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Comhairle Contae

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

Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

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

Location

Environmental Worker – 2 positions

Enniscorthy

Library Support Worker – 1 position

Library HQ / Archives, Carricklawn

2

•

contact: Bernie Lennon, CE Scheme Supervisor, Wexford County Council at 087 6575743 during office hours 9am – 5pm or email: bernie.lennon@wexfordcoco.ie The closing date for the Library Support Worker Application is 4.00pm Friday 8th July 2022.

The closing date for the Environmental Worker Application is 4.00pm Friday, 5th August 2022.

Please note that persons applying for these positions must

Duties to include: •

To apply for these positions and for further information please

Environmental Worker – General maintenance, cleaning, planting and weeding etc.

Library Support Worker – Support Work for Library/Archive Staff – Computer Skills required.

satisfy the Department of Social Protection criteria to participate in the Community Employment Scheme.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities employer.

WEXFORD TO CURRACLOE

Kilmuckridge to Morriscastle

Summer Bus Service | June 4th - September 4th 2022

Summer Bus Service | June 4th - September 4th 2022

From Redmond Square,Wexford (McCauleys) 10:30 ¦ 11:30 ¦ 12:30 ¦ 14:30 ¦ 15:30 ¦ 16:30 ¦ 17:30 From Curracloe Beach (Whitegap Car Park) 11:00 ¦ 12:00 ¦ 13:00 ¦ 15:00 ¦ 16:00 ¦ 17:00 ¦ 18:00 To find out more call 053 919 6276 or email wexford@locallink.ie

Single Fares: Adult €2, Child / Student €1 Family €5, FTP & Under 5s travel FREE

Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

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From Kilmuckridge Village to Morriscastle Beach and back On demand from 11:00 to 18:00 To find out more call 053 919 6276 or email wexford@locallink.ie

No Fares This service is FREE

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

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

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Comhairle Contae

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

Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

Economic Development

• • • •

Are you a start-up looking for a place to work?

Want to work remotely to avoid that long commute?

Want to separate your work space from your home space?

Having difficulty with broadband connectivity in your area?

Whatever the reason, why not check out the remote working options available to you in County Wexford. For more information on the locations of Connected Hubs and Broadband Connection Points (BCPs) near you go to http://onlineadssolutions.com/wexfordcc/ or email economic.development@wexfordcoco.ie

Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

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

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

5th July 2022 - Page 49

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Great day for Kilnamanagh

Pupils at Kilnamanagh Community National School get the opportunity to toss the sod for the new extension to their school.

Members of WWETB (Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board) were delighted to join the Principal and pupils of Kilnamanagh Community National School (CNS) last month for the turning of the sod, which marked the beginning of an eagerly-awaited extension to the school.

Kilnamanagh Community National School has gone from strength to strength since being divested to WWETB in 2019, and WWETB is really pleased with the threefold increase in enrolment, and how the local community has shown such confidence in the school by enrolling their children there.

The all-important job of turning the first sod fell to Kevin Lewis CEO of WWETB, Principal Bróna Kenneally, and Mary Farrell, Independent Councillor and Chair of Kilnamanagh CNS Board of Management. Pupils of Kilnamanagh CNS also took part in the occasion, tossing the sod high in the air.

Eimear Ryan (Director of Schools WWETB), Geraldine Heath (Buildings & Services Manager WWETB), and Councillor Mary Farrell (Chair of Kilnamanagh CNS Board of Management).

Also present were Douglas Taylor of John Gray Ltd Construction, and architect Stephen Earls of The Padraig Smith Partnership.

Community National Schools (CNS) are state, co-educational, multi-denominational primary schools underpinned by the core values of Excellence in Education, Care, Equality, Community and Respect. If you would like to see a Community National School in your area please register your interest on www.cns.ie or contact WWETB via www.waterfordwexford.etb.ie n

In addition to a new 80m2 classroom and ensuite, the extension also comprises a 15m2 Special Education room, which will facilitate support teaching.

“We are absolutely delighted that our school is getting this new build. It will be so beneficial for our growing numbers, to accommodate them and to provide the space for further expansion. The new build means we can move forward and keep the positive momentum continuing, offering the community a chance for their children to have an education in a state run, caring, respectful and inclusive school, in a multi-denominational setting, where all beliefs or none are valued,” said Principal Bróna Kenneally speaking at the event.

Among those present at the turning of the sod were Principal Bróna Kenneally, Kevin Lewis (CEO of WWETB), Dr Karina Daly (Director of Organisation Support and Development WWETB),

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Turning the first sod were Principal Bróna Kenneally, Mary Farrell, Independent Councillor and Chair of Kilnamanagh CNS Board of Management, and Kevin Lewis CEO of WWETB.

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JMA at play

Wexford band JMA brought their acclaimed Rock Legends Show featuring the songs of Bob Dylan and Neil Young to Enniscorthy’s Presentation Arts Centre on 10th June where the enthusiastic audience included (below left) Richie Cotter, Eamon Ellis and Trader Sam who performed his own gig in The Bailey the following night.

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Boost for night- Free summer time economy fun for children €2.6 million has been allocated by the government to support entertainment at off-peak times to increase footfall in our cities and towns later in the evening and night-time as well as providing artists with paying gigs and customers with a more alternative, diverse and inclusive night-time offering. Pubs, nightclubs, cafés and other suitable licensed and unlicensed premises may apply.

Funding will be available to trial a series of cultural activities (minimum number of 4 events), with a maximum grant of €10,000 available per application. Events such as music, including electronic music, comedy, dance, literature, poetry, theatrical productions, plays, craft and art/photographic exhibitions will be funded.

The new Night-Time Economy Support Scheme (NTESS) opened for applications on 21 June 2022 and it will remain open until 1pm on Friday 22 July 2022 or until the fund is exhausted, whichever occurs first.

This initiative is in support of two recommendations in the Report of the Night-Time Economy Taskforce.

Applications will be invited under 2 separate strands: Strand A: Licensed premises – pubs, restaurants and wine bars, nightclubs and other suitable licensed premises that operate in the Evening and Night-Time Economy, who want to trial a series of events/cultural activities (minimum of 4 events) during off peak times from Monday to Thursday (excluding weekends) from 6pm onwards.

Strand B: Unlicensed premises – cafés, including cafés that may have their premises in a retail outlet, dry bars, local galleries and other suitable non-licensed premises, who want to trial a series of events/cultural activities (minimum of 4 events) in the later evening or night-time hours from 6pm, with a commitment to open until at least 9pm in the evening, from Monday to Sunday.

The entertainment/cultural events must be of a participative or performance nature and can include but not limited to the following:       

live music, including electronic music, performance comedy nights dance either performed or a participative event literature or poetry nights theatrical productions or plays craft events art/photographic exhibitions

The Night-Time Economy Support Scheme has been developed in consultation with representatives from the night-time economy sector.

For more information: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/452a3-the-night-time-economy-support-scheme-2022-ntess-2022-your-questions-answered/

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Enniscorthy Christian Fellowship are holding their annual free Children’s Summer Camp in Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh, Drumgoold, Enniscorthy, for 5 to 12 year olds from Monday 18th to Friday 22nd July from 10.30am to 3pm.

Also their free Youth Summer Camp for 11 to 18 year olds in the Astro Active Centre, Bellefield, from Tuesday 19th July to Thursday 21st July from 7pm to 9pm.

All are welcome to a free Family Fun Day for all the family on Saturday 23rd July from 2pm-6pm in the Astro Active Centre.

For more information or to register contact Andrew or Lorna on 086 1967822 or 085 1367341. n

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Enniscorthy’s new drama on stage this August

TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR THIS TALE SET IN EARLY 1980s ENNISCORTHY!!!

Enniscorthy Drama Group presents ‘Farsiders’ – a new play written and directed by Fintan Kelly.

Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, Wednesday 24th, Thursday 25th, Friday 26th and Saturday 27th August at 8pm. Tickets €15.

Book online: https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.com/shows/873628076 n

Wexford bids to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024

Above left: Cllr George Lawlor, the new Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, lends his support to Wexford’s bid to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024. Above right: Wexford Mayor Garry Laffan and senior officials of Wexford County Council lend their support also.

The National Opera House was the venue last month to launch Wexford’s bid to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024 – a collaboration between Wexford Comhaltas and Wexford County Council.

The Fleadh is now the biggest event of its kind in the world with in excess of 500,000 visitors and competitors attending the nine-day event in August each year. It is estimated to generate upwards of €60 million for the local economy. n

5th July 2022 - Page 53

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Ballindaggin field evening

Ballindaggin Development Group Annual Field Evening in aid of Ballindaggin National School on 17th June 2022.

Top left: Enjoying his strawberries and cream is Derek Warren with Syl and Trish Hipwell.

Top right: Leanne Wilson and Cait Nolan.

Above left: Sinead Ronan, Joan and Shauna Nolan. Above centre: Lar and Joyce Breen.

Left: Charlene Nolan and Ellie Hughes playing Skittles. Right: Chloe Fagan.

Below left: Natali and John Joe Jordan.

Below right: Gemma Roche and Emma Walsh.

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The ‘Battle of Enniscorthy’ The Battle of Enniscorthy, a four day battle of the Civil War, raged on the streets of the town from 1st – 4th July 1922 leaving several wounded and two men dead. It had never before been commemorated in the town until 2nd July 2022 when one hundred years exactly to the day, the Wexford Literary Festival rectified that with a commemoration and reenactment by Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society and Lord Edwards Own. Approximately three hundred people attended the event on the streets at Enniscorthy Castle.

Above left: Maria Nolan (event organiser), with Rev Nicola Halford. Above right: Fionn and Colleen Howe and Liz Fenlon. Left: Billy Heffernan staying on the right side of the law. Below: Breaking into the old post office. Bottom left: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Minister James Browne and Sean Haughey TD. Bottom right: Cllr Aidan Browne (Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District) with Maria Nolan (event organiser).

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Elvis is in The local team that brought us the incredibly successful ‘Buddy – the Buddy Holly Story’ in 2018 will be back with a brand new show this August featuring Elvis and The Big Bopper in ‘Rock 'n' Roll to the Rescue’.

It tells the story of a young Elvis and JP Richardson. Trapped in small town America can they

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the building! use their Rock 'n' Roll to save themselves?

With a host of lovable and crazy characters and music that will have you hopping off the walls, don't miss out on Rock 'n' Roll to the Rescue. Featuring songs like, Stuck on You, Hound Dog, Reet Petite, Chapel of Love and many, many more.

Rock 'n' Roll to the Rescue will be performed in aid of Pieta House so your support would be most welcome. n

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Dancing with Declan Opinion You Didn't

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

https://www.facebook.com/socialdancingdateswexford n

Ask For Podcast

Wexford Arts Centre For details and updates on all happening in Wexford Arts Centre: https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.com/shows n

Enniscorthy Women Walking Together A new ‘Enniscorthy Women Walking Together’ meet-up group has been set up so that no woman who likes to walk has to walk alone, and to help all women to be healthier, happier and fitter. All women are very welcome to join in.

Walking alone is not usually much fun so it helps to be among friends who are encouraging and supportive. Walking times, days and duration will be decided by the walkers in the group.

A Facebook page (‘Enniscorthy Women Walking Together’) has been created to help bring women of all ages together to enjoy walking in the company of other like-minded women. n

Enniscorthy’s new summer festival Looking ahead.... Enniscorthy will host a new and exciting summer festival based on a number of existing festivals amalgamating to form one super festival offering top class food, music, and children’s entertainment.

This new festival is called the Rockin’ Fruit & Food Festival and will take place from Friday 29th July to Monday 1st August.

More details on pages 24-25. n

Holohan’s Trad & Ballads A great trad and ballad session takes place in Holohan’s Pub, Enniscorthy, every Wednesday night for the summer months starting around 9pm. n

Stay in touch Wexford Public Libraries Social Media: Wexford Public Libraries on Facebook.

Wexford Public Libraries on Instagram @wexfordlibraries.

Wexford Public Libraries on Twitter @wexlibraries.

YouTube: "Wexford Public Libraries" n

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

Enniscorthy Library There’s lots happening in Enniscorthy Library for the month of July. Please book your place by contacting the library on 053 9236055.

Baby & Toddler Rhyme Time every Tuesday at 10:30am.

Movie night for children 6pm, Thursday 14th July, suitable 5 10 years, parents/guardian must stay for the duration.

Summer Stars Saturday Story Time 11:30am, Saturday 16th July, suitable for 6 - 9 years.

Summer Stars Ocean Story Time & Crafts 10:30am, Thursday 21st July, suitable for 4 - 8 years.

Coding summer camp suitable for 7 – 12 years. 4 weekly sessions starting 21st July at 2pm, children must be available for all 4 sessions.

Local author Maria Nolan will talk about and read from her latest book “The Shadow of Freedom” 7pm, Thursday 21st July.

Beachcombing our beautiful Wexford beaches. An event suitable for all the family, 11am, Saturday 23rd July.

Out at the Movies, cinema evening for grown-ups, 6pm, Thursday 28th July. n

ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY Lymington Road - Phone: 053 9236055 enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthylibrary

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TEL: 053 9233000

THE PRESENTATION ARTS CENTRE ENNISCORTHY 8TH JULY 2022 8.30PM

THE PRESENTATION ARTS CENTRE ENNISCORTHY 16TH JULY 2022 8.30PM

THE ROB STRONG BAND THE PRESENTATION ARTS CENTRE ENNISCORTHY 23RD JULY 2022 8.00PM

THE PRESENTATION CENTRE, ENNISCORTHY. WWW.PRESENTATIONCENTRE.IE FOR BOOKING ON ALL EVENTS: WWW.WEXFORDARTSCENTRE.IE/EVENTS/ Page 58 - 5th July 2022

SlaNey leiSure & lifeStyle Jive Inferno with Lekan in The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, Thursdays from 8pm.

Weekly modern jive class. No need to come with a partner and only pay as you go! Beginners welcome every week.

Admission is €10.

Make the most of all Co. Wexford has to offer with the Visit Wexford App To keep up with all things new and exciting happening around the county, Visit Wexford, with the support of Wexford County Council, has an App to help locals and visitors explore Wexford with ease.

The handy pocket guide to Wexford has everything visitors to the county need for a fun and hassle-free trip to the Sunny South East.

Wexford is a popular holiday destination for many, so Visit Wexford has made it even easier for you to explore the county all year round!

Find all there is to see and do, places to stay and eat, fun-filled activities, stunning beaches, terrific trails and much, much more across the county with the help of the Visit Wexford app.

Discover County Wexford with a click of a button and get exclusive notifications, offers and more, directly through the app. It includes helpful functions, such as:

✦ Directories for accommodation, activities, restaurants, beaches and more across the county.

✦ Listings and contact information for tourism and hospitality businesses in Wexford.

✦ A handy map of County Wexford with all of the points of interest pinpointed for you.

✦ A selection of the top Travel Tuesday blogs and insider guides from VisitWexford.ie

✦ A weather widget for the weather forecast in the Sunny South East.

✦ A gallery of stunning images from around the county to inspire your trip.

✦ Push notifications about nearby attractions, coupons and more exclusive offers for app users.

The Visit Wexford app can be downloaded for free on Apple and Android devices via the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Download the Visit Wexford app now and start planning your adventure in Wexford today! VisitWexford.ie n

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Caim Parish Annual BBQ on 17th June 2022.

Left: Nicloa, Evan and Alan Dagg.

Above: Ella Spillane and Nora Boland.

Right: Katie Hutchinson and Peggie Kenny.

Caim Parish BBQ - a big success

Above left: Sophia Doyle, Elicia Barnes and Sonia Zielinslea. Above right: Adhran, James and Flynn Morrissey.

Below left: Chef Kevin Frayne in action. Below right: Chef Lucy O’Gorman with her assistant Jack Sinnott.

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Fabulous fun in Ferns

A great fun day took place at Ferns GAA club on 26th June with a magician, face painters, live music, fire-eater and much more, run by Lantern and funded through Wexford County Council and The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport & Media through the Local Live Performance Programming Scheme (LLPPS) 2022.

The occasion was also the last that Cllr Cathal Byrne appeared at as Chairperson of Enniscorthy Municipal District. n Above left: Bernie Quigley (Acting District Manager, Enniscorthy Municipal District), Cllr John O’Rourke. Above right: Cllr Cathal Byrne, then Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District, with Bernie Quigley (Acting District Manager).

Above left: Magician Kristian Grey entertains the crowd. Above right: Facepainter Ellie hard at work doing a Spiderman face.

Below left: The Arklow/Gorey/Wexford band Stratus L-R: Darragh Byrne (vocals), Seán Croker (guitar), Diarmuid Ó Conchúir (bass) and Fionn Murphy (drums). Below right: Tianna Moore (Lantern), Fitzy and Lee (musicians) and Zoe Howlin (Lantern).

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ARE YOU DANCING? Welcome back to the July issue of the Slaney News where we keep you updated on all the latest in the dancing scene around the southeast.

So I went along to the Country Fest in the Rathwood Big Top run by Des Willoughby on June 11th.

It was a great success all round considering up to 1,000 people turned up, so a lot of organising had to go into getting everyone in, seated and fed and watered. Des had made a new dance floor which got plenty of use and I spoke with him afterwards and besides a little tweaking here and there he was very happy with how it all went and has lots more events lined up for the summer including Nathan Carter on August 13th.

Des' fortnightly Sunday dances in the Ashdown Park Hotel are flying it and I heard great reports about Tony, Theresa & The Stars followed by Limelite last week. Derek Ryan and his brother Adrian are there Sunday 10th of July.

I spoke last month about how midweek dancing had fallen victim to the pan-

demic and the latest news is a bit mixed I'm afraid to say. I said you'd have to travel to Dublin or Carlow to dance on a Thursday night but, in the meantime, Murphy's Hotel in Tinahely reopened its dance on Thursdays. I spoke with them this week and they are not really getting enough to keep it going so if you're free that night pop in and give them your support. It's a great little friendly venue.

The Wicklow Man (Dave Bury) is there this week.

Closer to home, Harney's of Ballyedmond are starting a new Wednesday night dance on July 6th with Dermot & Fergal McConnell. They are still on every Saturday night and you'll have to check with their Sunday dances as the ones that clash with the Ashdown Park Hotel don't normally go ahead.

Some new releases out: Stuart Moyles - "Still The One" is a great medium-tempo song that would suit the Slosh.

Johnny Brady - "Independent Trucker".

Up-tempo song from Johnny suitable for Quickstep or Jive.

Rathwood Big Top ready for the big dance. =

Eamon Jackson - "Same Oul Love".

Great new Jive song from Eamon.

The Gorey Show was a great success in its new venue and we are looking forward to the Kilag Show, Thursday, July 14th. We have our dance floor in Raheen Vintage Day Laois Sunday, July 10th, and Stradbally Steam Rally on July 31st.

It was a great shock to everyone involved in the dancing scene nationwide to hear that Michael English was stepping back from most of his gigs from September to April. In his statement he cited the rising number of covid cases and the time needed to complete two new albums as the reason for his decision.

Now, if you don't know who Michael English is, let me tell you he is the perfect gentleman in the music industry. A concert pianist, a prolific songwriter and composer and an artist who can draw a very large sitting audience and dancers as well. And that's why some of the big dancing venue organisers that I spoke to were sorry to hear the news.

Some bands attract a dancing crowd, others a listening crowd.

Some are popular in some parts of the country and not as much in other parts. But Michael English is popular everwhere, with everyone.

There simply isn't anything not to like about him. He's still fulfilling his Scottish, Spanish and Portugese shows along with the Cork Opera House and Gertrude Byrne's cruise to Alaska. (I wouldn't mind going on that!!)

A Castledermot man who moved to Laois and then settled into his new abode in Naas in 2019. Like a lot of us, Michael got to step off the express train during the pandemic and got to take stock. From 6 to 7 late nights and early mornings to

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with Declan Flanagan pottering around in the garden of his new house must have given him, and most of us, a new perspective on how life existed off the merry-go-round. He is very close to all his family and after losing his mam recently along with a desire to get some albums under way, especially a gospel one, I suppose his decision to take a sabbatical is not so surprising after all.

So that's all from me for this month folks. We have a very packed calendar for next month so don't forget to drop by here at the Slaney News to find out what's happening and where, and do if you can at all, support the smaller dances and parish dances. A small few extra can mean the difference between staying going or having to close.

Thank you, Declan Flanagan.

Michael English has decided to take a sabbatical.

Donie Anderson's Geese gracing the dance floor at the Gorey Show.

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Wexford

Wexford County Council is honoured that C August. Our photos were take

Top centr

Below left: Wexford Rose Joy Quigl

Below right: Visit Wexford’s Dami Wexford Rose Joy Quigley, Dire

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to host 33 Roses on tour

County Wexford has been selected to host the Roses from the 2022 Rose of Tralee International Festival on an incredible Wexford Rose Tour this en at the launch of this Wexford Rose Tour at the offices of Wexford County Council on Tuesday 31st May 2022. See report page 73.

Photographer: Domnick Walsh Photography.

Top Left: Wexford Rose Joy Quigley and then Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Barbara-Anne Murphy. e: Representatives from Wexford County Council, Visit Wexford, Rose of Tralee International Festival and O’Connell Marketing.

Top right: Rose of Tralee escort Laurence Whelan and Wexford Rose Joy Quigley. ley with Rose of Tralee International Festival Operations Director Steve Cronly and then Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Barbara-Anne Murphy.

Below centre: Wexford hurler Damien Reck, Wexford Rose Joy Quigley and Wexford camogie player Sarah O’Connor. ian Lynch, then Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Barbara-Anne Murphy, Rose of Tralee International Festival Operations Director Steve Cronly, ector of Services, Economic Development, Planning & Property Management at Wexford County Council Elizabeth Hore, and General Manager of the Ashdown Park Hotel Paul Finegan.

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

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

Ballyhogue GAA Club is delighted to announce the return of the Bree Barndance on Saturday 9th July in Byrne's Grainstore, Bree. Live music by the Kilkenny's with a DJ to follow! Bar on the night as well as food stalls! STRICTLY OVER 18s ONLY! Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ballyhogue-gaa-presents-bree-barndance-tickets-338858413637 n

Wexford Public Libraries' YouTube Channel...

Make sure to check out Wexford Public Libraries' YouTube channel. Catch up with all the events you may have missed or would like to watch again, as well as handy guides and tutorials for accessing Wexford Public Libraries' e-services.

You can catch up on these talks on Wexford Public Libraries' YouTube Channel. n

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ELVIS

Movie Review with Kyle Walsh 

As I sat in the darkness of my second home, the cinema, beside the biggest Elvis fan I know, my Dad, we both felt excited but yet somewhat concerned about this film about the king of rock ‘n’ roll.

For me personally, I was really hoping for something good as I grew up in a household full of Elvis music, I can only imagine what my Dad’s expectation was. I wanted my Dad to come out of the cinema smiling.

We were excited to see how they were going to portray the King’s life story on the silver screen this time, but we had our concerns because of the casting of Austin Butler as Elvis because, let’s face it lads, there’s only one Elvis – he was so unique in every way. I had serious doubts about him bringing the king back to life.

Then the director Baz Luhman was making the film and I wouldn’t be the biggest fan of his movies. Then the great Tom Hanks was on board starring as Col. Tom Parker which got me excited because he’s a brilliant actor. Then I started to hear rumours that we are going to be blown away by Austin’s take on Elvis. Then we had reports of a 12-minute standing ovation at the end of the film at the Cannes Film Festival.

So as the date of its release in cinemas

drew closer, I must admit my excitement started to get the better of me. I was starting to hear some positive reviews. Lads, I am so happy to say that I came out of the cinema the other night with my Dad and the both of us couldn’t believe what we had watched. This film is an absolute masterpiece and I mean that. It’s a wonderful film. For me, that’s it now, they should never try to make another Elvis film again because you will never top this. It’s truly great and my favourite film of the year so far. I go as far as saying that Austin will win best actor oscar for the portrayal of Elvis.

Tom Hanks will be at least nominated if not win the oscar for best supporting actor. I think Baz can win best director and the film will win best film. I’d be willing to put a few quid on that. That’s how good this film is and I feel everybody should watch it.

Austin embodied Elvis’ soul for this performance. His dance movements, his mannerisms, you’d swear you were watching the real deal.

The costume designer got all his shirts, his suits, absolutely everything was so authentic looking. It was like going back in time.

What craftsmanship went into getting the costumes all so real. The set designs were practically spot on. The Vegas stage, how do they do it so well?

side of the story. What a gangster he was and it’s terrible that he got involved with Elvis. He destroyed him. I feel Elvis could have achieved so much more if he had never set his eyes on Parker.

This film shows you how Elvis was so influenced by black music. Nobody could believe he was white. A white man with a black voice. Overall this film had absolutely everything in it, the music, style, story, acting, directing, editing, everything was top drawer.

It grasps you from the first second and holds onto you to the end. It’s such a heartbreaking story to see a man who had everything but yet was so lonely, so fragile, so insecure, and ended with nothing in his personal life.

It’s one of life’s most tragic stories.

This is a 10/10 film lads with exceptional performances. The king once said, ‘Nobody will ever remember me.’ You were wrong Elvis, we all know you, and you have had an impact on all our lives. I know you have on mine. The world was blessed to have had such a great artist and now, all these years later, there is a new generation going to the cinema to see this film and they will know more about him.

His name will forever live on. Not many of us can say that. Please go see it when you can, you won’t be disappointed. The king lives on. n

Hanks was great in it too. I loved the way the narrator of the film came from Parker’s

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Eoin’s new music video is out now Enniscorthy’s Eoin Devereux has a new song out called 'Stay In Bed' which he wrote when he was going through a hard time and was at a low point.

Eoin tells us, "I wanted the song to have a positive message and remind myself there is a brand new day, every day. This is the second song I have released this year, the other being 'Set My Eyes On You'. I would really love for more people to see my work and perhaps relate to it, that's why it is so important for me to share my music."

The video for the new song is out now. Check it out on the YouTube link below or use the QR code in the accompanying image. https://youtu.be/pNzGpg OVuTU https://eoindevereux.vibe .to/music n

Enjoying the Marty Party Popular sports commentator Marty Morrissey was at the National Opera House in Wexford last month for the Marty Party, a novelty evening of talent and entertaining acts with local and national artists.

Enjoying the occasion were L-R: Maria Nolan, Jacqui Murphy, Marty Morrissey, Terri Foley and Dickie Murphy. n

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Enniscorthy & Monart Union of Parishes Summer Fete and Family Fun Day, Enniscorthy Showgrounds, 18th June 2022.

Left: Marie and Karrie Warren. Above: Nadia Mirska, Keeva Quirke and Poppy Shore.

Enniscorthy & Monart Union of Parishes Summer Fete and Family Fun Day, Enniscorthy Showgrounds Left: Brendan and daughter Grace Robinson.

Right: Julia Klusiewez and Emily Mortou.

Below left: Bobbi Cahill and her dog Reggie.

Below centre: Henry and Robin Dunne and dog Lauce.

Below right: Lola Doyle and Tony Bolger and dog Poca.

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Marty’s party at Opera House

Popular sports commentator Marty Morrissey was at the National Opera House recently for the Marty Party, a novelty evening of talent and entertaining acts with local and national artists.

Some of the local artists included the incomparable George Lawlor, who gave an emotive rendition of Cuchulainn’s Son, the gifted beauties The Ivy Sisters, the brilliant dancers from the Sullivan Academy of Irish Dancing, able musicians Tulua, and beautiful harpist Una Walsh of The Late Late Show fame, along of course with our own Tom Dempsey who entertained the audience with exaggerated accounts of his hurling prowess in the 1996 All Ireland Final and did his best to get Marty into a Wexford jersey prior to the clash between Wexford and his native county Clare.

National stars and former Eurovision winners Paul Harrington and Charlie McGettigan took us all back to the day with the Rock & Roll Kids and the Celtic Brothers (formerly the Willoughbys) from Wicklow and Celtic Woman Lisa Lambe delighted with old favourites and new releases.

Marty definitely brings a party everywhere he goes. There was certainly glitz, glam, and fake tan in this first of five toedippers from around the country showcasing live music and dance with special guest appearances.

Wexford, being the first venue, RTE were on the ground assessing the reaction of the audience and no doubt the possibility of how the show might transfer to the big screen.

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Marty is an extremely likeable and relaxed host, and the show provides a wonderful format for counties to showcase the amazing talent in their midst.

As a member of the audience on the night I would say it’s a winner – Party On! – Maria Nolan

Above: The Celtic Brothers. Below: The Ivy Sisters.

Below left: Marty with Tom Dempsey. Below centre: Marty with Paul Kehoe TD. Below right: Cllr George Lawlor performing on stage and on the big screen.

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Gracing the silver screen On 24th June, Wexford Film Workshop presented the world premiere of its film, The Three Graces, featuring an allstar local cast including Florence and Elaine Jordan, Dick Donaghue Jennafer Boyd, Karen Franklin, Jer Ennis and Caroline O’Connell.

Wexford Film Workshop presented ‘The Three Graces’ in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, on 24th June 2022, in aid of Slaney Search & Rescue.

Above: Lauren and Elaine Jordan. Below left: Mary Mernagh and Betsy Kehoe.

Below right: Marja van Kampen, Laura and Karen Franklin.

The film was written and directed by local filmmaker, Dick Donaghue, and produced by Jer Ennis. Jer’s short film titled Oh! Brother was shown on the night also.

All proceeds from the premiere go to Slaney Search & Rescue. n

HOLD THAT LINE Hold That Line, the new single from Enniscorthy’s Cursed Murphy Versus the Resistance, was released on 24th June on Bandcamp, Spotify, iTunes and all digital platforms. It is taken from the forthcoming album Republic of the Weird which will be released this autumn and will be the band’s second album, their first having been released to critical acclaim in 2020.

Hold That Line is written and co-produced by Cursed Murphy, Dan Comerford and Johnny Fox, engineered and mixed by Johnny Fox and mastered by Fergal Davis.

The cover shot is by Wexford photographer Kenny Ruttledge, with cover design by Rebecca and Olivia Gangnus.

Check it out now on: https://cursedmurphyversustheresistance.bandcamp.com/track/hold-that-line

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Castledockrell Field Day

Castledockrell National School & St Aidan’s Day Care Centre in association with Marshalstown/Castledockrell Vintage Club hosted a Field Day at Castledockrell school on 22nd May 2022.

Above left: Getting strawberries and cream was Mary Ellen Doran.

Above centre: Sophie Brennan.

Above right: Nadia Jordan.

Left: Cathal Mernagh showing his pulling power.

Right: Declan Raleigh, Roiseen Doyle and Megan Fitzpatrick.

Below left: Chloe Hogan and Shannon Murphy.

Below centre: Callum and Adam Kenny, Caoimhe and Lisa Doyle.

Below right: Maurice and Rian Purcell.

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Wexford to host 33 Roses Wexford County Council is honoured to announce that County Wexford has been selected to host the Roses from the 2022 Rose of Tralee International Festival on the incredible Wexford Rose Tour this August.

For the first time ever, County Wexford will host this tour organised by Visit Wexford, supported by Wexford County Council and kindly hosted by the Ashdown Park Hotel and the local tourism industry. The Wexford Rose Tour will showcase all that County Wexford has to offer; from old stone castles to fun sandcastles, to catching waves and catching up with friends, and where 33 new Roses meet for the first time and enjoy adventures together, creating memories that last a lifetime.

The Wexford Rose Tour will take place across three days in August where Roses from across Ireland, the USA, Canada, Britain, Germany, Australia, New Zealand and the Middle East will be treated to a jam-packed itinerary. The tour includes stops at some of Wexford's most recognisable landmarks as well as some of our best-kept secrets and is welcomed by our very own Wexford Rose Joy Quigley, who hails from the medieval village of Ferns.

The tour will commence on Thursday 11th August with the Roses checking in at the 4-star Ashdown Park Hotel in Gorey, the official accommodation partner for the tour. They will then be welcomed at a Wexford County Council reception with Johnstown Castle providing the beautiful backdrop for the occasion.

Paul Finegan, General Manager of Ashdown Park Hotel, said: “As the official hospitality partners for the Wexford Rose Tour, we are honoured to host this year's Roses who will travel from all over Ireland and across the world to stay with us in the Ashdown Park Hotel in Gorey. Wexford is a key hotspot for Irish staycations with its beaches, visitor attractions, and local food and drink producers. We are experiencing more demand for experiential breaks and we are excited that the Roses will stay and experience this with us.”

During their time in sunny Wexford, the Roses will be whisked to a wide variety of locations right across the county such as meeting the resident seals at Seal Rescue Ireland in Courtown, catching some waves at Curracloe – Ireland's favourite beach and taking in the breathtaking views from the world’s oldest lighthouse along the Hook Peninsula. They will be treated to plenty of delicious meals including locally produced food and drink along the way and, of course, sampling Wexford’s famous fresh strawberries.

Steve Cronly, The Rose of Tralee International Festival Operations Director, said: “The Roses are looking forward to sampling the magnificent hospitality that awaits us in Wexford. Over two glorious days in August, the Roses from all over the world will enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of key Wexford flagship locations. We thank Wexford County Council, Visit Wexford, the Ashdown Park Hotel and the many wonderful tourist attractions in Wexford for inviting the Roses to enjoy your county.

We are grateful to the people of Wexford who have opened their county to welcome the Roses.”

At the launch of the Wexford Rose Tour at the offices of Wexford County Council on 31st May 2022 were Tralee International Festival Operations Director Steve Cronly and then Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Barbara-Anne Murphy.

Pic: Domnick Walsh Photography. See more photos on pages 64-65.

The launch took place at the Wexford County Council offices on Tuesday 31st May where the excitement to officially announce the Wexford Rose Tour was evident. The attendees captured Instagram-worthy moments, enjoyed treats from local food producers provided by Taste Wexford and had the opportunity to meet and congratulate our newly crowned 2022 Wexford Rose Joy Quigley.

Elizabeth Hore, Director of Services & Economic Development at Wexford County Council, said: “County Wexford has enjoyed incredible success in tourism with the highest hotel occupancy in Ireland over the last two summers. We would like to build on this, especially with our international audience, and this Wexford County Council brand partnership with the Rose of Tralee International Festival offers a unique opportunity to showcase County Wexford in a fun and interactive way by creating the Wexford Rose Tour. I am delighted to say that the Roses’ itinerary will be available as a downloadable guide on VisitWexford.ie so that people can follow in the footsteps – both heels and flats – of the 2022 Roses.”

The Rose of Tralee International Festival will run from Friday 19th to Tuesday 23rd August when the 2022 Rose of Tralee will be crowned at Munster Technological University live on RTÉ One. The Visit Wexford Rose Tour 2022 schedule, including photo and autograph opportunities for the public, will be released over the coming weeks.

For more, follow @VisitWexford on social media and go to VisitWexford.ie n

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LAST CHANCE TO CATCH THE AMAZING PRIDE ART SHOW RUNNING IN ENNISCORTHY’S PRESENTATION ARTS CENTRE UNTIL 10TH JULY.

the launch last month. Veronica and fellow committe

Wexford PRIDE and The Presentation Arts Centre are delighted to be running this show which is the first Pride art exhibition in Co. Wexford – a celebration of queer artists, deliberately coinciding with Pride Month. The Pride flag can also be seen flying high at Enniscorthy Castle for the first time.

tion Arts Centre to bring this exhibition into existenc

11 LGBTQIA+ artists are featured in the Presentation Centre exhibition and given a space to exhibit their work openly and proudly.

Follow on social media:

“Queer art has a long history of challenging social norms, calling for change, and healing our community,” says Veronica Victor, who we were delighted to talk to at

Facebook Wexford Pride

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Riain, Charlotte and Robert are delighted to be colla

Wexford Pride will continue to create spaces for its c

and campaign for better outcomes for the LGBTQIA

Twitter @pridewexford Insta Wexford Pride n

ee members John, Aislinn,

aborating with The Presenta-

ce.

community to come together

A+ community in Wexford.

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Above: Veronica Victor with Vistafutur whose debut single called ‘Ringwood’ will be out later this summer and which was performed for the first time in public at the Pride Art Show Launch last month.

Above right: Lucy McLoughlin and Laura Hardiman.

Bottom right: Sarah Sinnott, Thomas Fitzpatrick (whose poetry features on the wall behind him as part of the exhibition) and Ger Freeman.

Bottom left: Lisa and Andrei.

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Wexford’s Red Books doubles in size Red Books – one of the biggest and best independent bookstores in the country, officially opened its enlarged premises at St Peter’s Square, Wexford, on 28th June, 2022. According to owner Wally O’Neill, “To say we were overwhelmed with the large crowd and loving sentiments is an understatement” as the enlarged Red Books heaved with book lovers and creatives.

Wally says, “Thanks to everyone who helped out or offered help with the ten days of hell to get the bookshop opened. There's too many to mention but special thanks to Ray, Kieran, Kevin, Pattie, Kiera, Dec, Richard, Sharon, Robbie, Lalani, Eithne, Marie, Tommy, Kathleen, Lorraine, Victoria, Tom, Melissa, Dannielle and my mother Nuala.

“Once again, big thanks to the legends Daithi and Rory Kavanagh who always

Red Books proprietor Wally O’Neill (centre) with Anton O’Broin and Kieran O’Brien.

step into the breach to provide music at our events. It's much appreciated.

“We also had wonderful performances from Ibar Quirke, Robbie Agar and Julie Dwyer, a beautiful poem from Roisin

Hensman, and speeches from Alanna Hammel and Peter Griffiths-Baker. Thank you all.

“Thanks to our great friend Kieran O' Brien for acting as MC and giving us so much help over the past week in particular, and to Anton O'Broin for cutting the ribbon and declaring the bookshop open.

“Thanks to Cllr Tom Forde, Cllr Davy Hynes, and Claire and the incredible team at Wexford People Helping People for turning out tonight and always giving us such great support.

“And thanks to all of you for your support and patronship over the past five and a half years. There was more than one time throughout the seemingly endless weeks of covid lockdowns that we thought about closing up for good but your constant support and enthusiasm for books and the bookshop kept us alive and fighting.” n

Enniscorthy Book Club The club’s next book is The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd. The club will meet on Thursday 28th July at 8pm at the Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy.

Everyone is welcome to join. https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthy bookclub n

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Calling all Artists...

The 15th plein air painting festival will take place from 24th July to 1st August 2022 here in the sunny south east of Ireland.

Cutting the cake at Enniscorthy Castle on 2nd July to celebrate ten years of the Wexford Literary Arts Festival L-R: Edel Kelly, Maria Nolan, Paul O’Reilly and Anne Gilpin.

Registration (https://www.artintheopen.org/) entitles you to the opportunity to book one of the many workshops by guest artists, the Gala Dinner at the end of the week, a social ‘hub’ for artists to gather and relax in the evenings, and submit two paintings for the Bank Holiday Exhibition in Greenacres Gallery, Wexford town. n

Above left: At the opening night of the Wexford Literary Arts Festival on 1st July in The Presentation Arts Centre were L-R: Minister James Browne TD, Megan O'Malley from Wexford (award winner), Anne Gilpin (Wexford Literary Arts Festival organiser), Cllr Aidan Browne (Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District), Cllr John O'Rourke. Above right: Three of the cast of a new play that was performed on the opening night of the Festival, Lillyanna Holohan, Georgia Swan and Pat Murphy. The play was written by shortlisted playwright, octagenarian Carmel Codd Leen.

Local author Maria Nolan will talk about and read from her latest book “The Shadow of Freedom” at 7pm, Thursday 21st July.

Please book your place by contacting the library on 053 9236055.

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A Decade of the Wexford Lit

Above: Maria Nolan, Secretary, Wexford Literary Festival.

Right: Daire Murray (uilleann piper), Declan O’Rourke, Peter Murphy and Elizabeth Whyte (Wexford Arts Centre).

Far right: Cllr Aidan Browne (Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District), Anne Gilpin (Wexford Literary Festival) and Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy.

Last weekend the Wexford Literary Arts Festival celebrated its 10th anniversary with one of its most successful festivals to date.

With events happening in both Enniscorthy and Wexford over the three Festival days, 1st to 3rd July, including a Poetry Workshop with poet Margaret Galvin, Fintan Murphy in conversation with author Des Kiely at Wexford Library, Declan O’Rourke in conversation with Peter Murphy at the Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, Book Launch with Derville Murphy, and Underground Womens Group at Wexford Book Centre, Childrens’ Fairy Workshop with Author Caroline Busher, June Caldwell and Susan Tomaselli in conversation with best-selling authors Carmel Harrington, Sheila Forsey, Hannah McNiven, Paul O’Reilly, Deville Murphy, Imelda Carroll, Felicity Hayes McCoy and Mabelle Wallis at Enniscorthy Castle, short films with awardwinning Imelda Carroll, Hannah McNiven and Dick Donaghue at the Presentation Arts Centre, Alannah Hammel and Michael Fortune at Enniscorthy Castle, a medley of poetry and

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music with local poets at Red Books, Wexford.

place to Fergal O’Byrne, Copenhagen, Denmark, for the story Sweetpea.

And of course our marvellous Awards Ceremony at the Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, where Marie Day from Wales won the Eoin Colfer International Short Story Childrens Award with Monsters in the Snow.

As part of our Awards Ceremony we staged Carmel Codd Leen’s play The Boat Train. Carmel, who is eighty-eighty years old, has submitted plays and short stories to the competitions since the Festival began in 2013 and has been shortlisted no less that five times ending up in the final four.

Megan O`Malley, Wexford, took first place in the Billy Roche International One Act Play Award with her play Unforgettable, 2nd place went to Alice Lynch, Cavan for The Girls and 3rd place to Eamonn Doran, Waterford, for Aunty Maggies Remedy.

In the Anthony Cronin International Poetry Award first place went to Angela Patten from Vermont, USA, for the poem Shine, 2nd place to Derek Sellen, Kent, England, for G is for Grey and 3rd place to Liz Byrne, Bolton, England for I Long to Lift a Saxaphone.

In the Colm Tóibín International Short Story Award first place went to David Butler, Bray, Wicklow, for his story The Witch, 2nd place to Grainne Daly, Tallaght, Dublin, for Little Jerome and 3rd

‘A marvellous show of enthusiasm for a woman in her 80s,’ Maria Nolan, Secretary, said welcoming Carmel home from America for the event. ‘I have no doubt the Presentation nuns are smiling down tonight on Carmel with pride as she sits here beside my mother Maeve Doyle, her best friend who sat beside her eightyfour years ago at the Presentation Convent and have remained friends ever since. Carmel has been a tremendous friend of the Festival since it began in 2013 arriving home each year and attending and supporting all our events.’

The icing on the cake for this year’s festival was surely the Commemoration of the Battle of Enniscorthy.

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terary Arts Festival

Wexford Literary Arts Festival award winners:

EOIN COLFER INTERNATIONAL SHORT CHILDREN'S STORY AWARD: Marie Day, of Wales, winner for the story Monsters In The Snow.

BILLY ROCHE INTERNATIONAL SHORT PLAY AWARD: First place: Megan O'Malley, of Wexford, for the play Unforgettable.

‘Realising that our 10th Festival occurred on the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Enniscorthy, we couldn’t allow the moment to pass without including a Commemoration in our Festival plans,’ Maria Nolan explained.

The Battle of Enniscorthy, a four day battle of the Civil War, raged on the streets of the town from 1st – 4th July 1922 leaving several wounded and two men dead, and had never before been commemorated in the town.

One hundred years exactly to the day, the Wexford Literary Festival has rectified that with a commemoration and re-enactment by Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society and Lord Edwards Own. Approximately three hundred people attended the event including Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council Aidan Browne, Minister James Browne, Chairman of Wexford County Council George Lawlor, Deputy Paul Kehoe, Councillors Barbara-Anne Murphy, Kathleen Codd-Nolan, Cathal Byrne, and Jackser Owens, special guests Deputy Sean Haughey, grandson of Sean Lemass who fought in the Battle of Enniscorthy,

Colm O’Brien and Orla McKeown, nephew and grandniece of Paddy O’Brien who was mortally wounded in the battle, keynote speaker Carmel Smyth, Rev. Nicola Halford, Acting District Administrator Bernie Quigley, Historian in Residence Barry Lacey who narrated the battle, and piper Liam Doyle who played a lament and the national anthem.

Wreaths were laid at the Post Office for the two men killed there – Maurice Spillane and Paddy O’Brien by Colm O’Brien and Orla McKeown.

Only fitting that one hundred years later all the men who fought and died in the Civil War are commemorated for the part they played in the struggle for Irish freedom, regardless of what stance they took, each and all of them believed that they were contributing to the birth of a nation and ‘we are here today to remember with dignity, compassion and gratitude, all who fought and died on these very streets one hundred years ago, so that we might all walk freely and proudly in this town of Enniscorthy.’

Second Place: Alice Lynch, of Cavan, for the play The Girls.

Third Place: Eamonn Dolan, of Waterford, for the play Aunty Maggies Remedy.

ANTHONY CRONIN INTERNATIONAL SHORT POEM AWARD: First Place: Angela Patten, from Ireland living in Vermont USA, for the poem Shine.

Second Place: Derek Sellen, of Kent, England, for the poem G is for Grey.

Third Place: Liz Bryne, from Dublin, living in Bolton, England, for the poem I Long To Lift A Saxophone.

COLM TÓIBÍN INTERNATIONAL SHORT STORY AWARD: First place: David Butler, of Bray, Wicklow, for the story The Witch.

Second Place: Gráinne Daly, of Tallaght, Dublin, for the story Little Jerome.

Third Place: Fergal O'Byrne, living in Copenhagen, Denmark, for the story Sweetpea.

Sponsorship of these Awards is from Wexford Co. Council which has been a fabulous supporter for ten years, and from entry fees from the competitors.

wexfordliteraryartsfestival.com

– Maria Nolan

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Anne Doyle to do the honours Anne Doyle, Wexford Ambassador and former RTÉ newsreader, a native of Ferns, will launch Dr Noel Culleton’s new book, Classical Women, at a function at Wexford Town Library on Thursday 14 July at 7.00pm.

Noel Culleton said that his new book, which took more than three years to research and write, will comprise the amazing stories of 26 women composers from a thousand years span who, despite huge obstacles to them, broke barriers in the male-dominated world of music.

Anne Doyle, Wexford Ambassador, journalist and former RTÉ newsreader who will launch Noel Culleton’s new book ‘Classical Women’ at Wexford Library on Thursday 14 July at 7.00pm.

This will be Noel’s third in a series of books on classical composers. Anne Doyle, a native of Ferns, who has been an RTÉ newscaster and anchor of their main News programmes, launched his previous book titled Classical Connections at the library three years ago.

Noel Culleton, author, and David Mahon, illustrator of the 180page Classical Women, were together serenaded by three musician sisters from the Wexford traditional Bailiú group – Ann Wickham on flute, Alice McIntyre née Wickham on violin and Liz Wickham on tin whistle among the mussel boats on Wexford quay in a Three Sisters Press promotion for the book.

Advisers to the production of the book include Maria Noelle Creevey, classical musician, a native of Kilmore, John Gibney, designer, Enniscorthy, Phil Murphy, editor of the Ireland’s Own Anthology, Declan Lyons, communications consultant and Dr Mary Staines, both of Arthurstown.

Dr Noel Culleton is the former chief executive of one of the

On Wexford Quay, the Bailiú traditional music group – sisters Ann Wickham (flute), Liz Wickham (tin whistle), and Alice McIntyre née Wickham (violin), serenaded author Dr Noel Culleton (seated) and illustrator David Mahon (standing) on the production of Noel Culleton’s new book, ‘Classical Women’.

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world’s leading agricultural research bodies, Johnstown Castle.

As an executive with the Department of Agriculture and Teagasc, he also helped to formulate Irish/EU policies on water quality and climate change.

David Mahon is an architect and a founder of the Dear Illustrator art studio. He has worked as an architect and artist in the US, New Zealand and Japan and has overseen design-build projects in Africa and the Pacific Islands. He will leave shortly on a two-month project in Jakarta, Indonesia. n

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Poetry at Enniscorthy Castle

On top of the world!

Poetry / Open Mic Night on the roof of Enniscorthy Castle on 22nd June 2022 – a Cultrí event. This is the first of many Cultrí Arts and Culture events to be hosted by The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy Castle and The National 1798 Rebellion Centre.

Above: Wexford Poet Laureate Sasha Terfous.

Above right: Jaz Boehmke, Jasper Hudson and Nike Sullivan-Haertling.

Right: Lisa Byrne. n

Basic income for the Arts Wexford is the county with the ninth highest number of applicants under the Basic Income for the Arts Scheme with about 250 artists based in this county applying. Over 9,000 applicants nationally are applying to be among the 2,000 to be selected as part of the initial pilot phase.

This has been welcomed by Senator Malcolm Byrne who said, “Co. Wexford has a vibrant artistic tradition and it is great that so many from Wexford are applying to be part of this transformative income scheme

introduced by the government. This scheme is designed to support artists and musicians during quieter periods when they may wish to be creative but might not have guarantees of income. If the pilot works, then it will be extended more widely.”

Applications by art form: Visual Arts 36.1%, Music 27.8%, Film 10.3%, Literature 8.4%, Theatre 8.3%, Multidisciplinary 3.3%, Other 2.3%, Dance 1.8%, Circus 0.8%, Architecture 0.5%, Opera 0.3%, Not Classified 0.1%. n

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Slimming World’s brand-new recipe book is jam-packed with 60 hunger-busting recipes, all designed to make enjoying a healthy lifestyle a breeze this summer. It’s available to buy exclusively in Slimming World groups for €7.95.

To find out more, drop a message to or pop along to one of the two venues in Enniscorthy. See ad on opposite page. n

Saltees Coast Hotel – fine food daily 8am to 8pm ‘Nationwide’ coverage for Enniscorthy allotments RTE’s Nationwide programme visited Enniscorthy Community Allotments on 30th June to check out the amazing work that has been done there turning a field into a communal space, with around 200 members, all in the space of a few months.

Well done to the committee and all who helped get the allotment project to where it is today. https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorthycommunityallotments

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Saltees Coast Hotel is situated in the heart of historic Kilmore Quay within walking distance of beaches, walking trails, and the harbour. This family-friendly hotel with its welcoming staff is now under new, local management, and is serving food seven days a week, 8am to 8pm, with great value steak nights on Mondays and Thursdays, and curry nights on Tuesdays. n

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Your local Slimming World Consultants in Enniscorthy

Providing you with a huge choice of sessions throughout the week: Tuesdays @ 6.30pm The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop Call Tony on 087 1785384 Wednesdays @ 9.30am, 11.00am, 5.30pm and 7.00pm Enniscorthy Rugby Club Call Trish on 087 3607615 Saturdays @ 9.00am and 10.30am The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop Call Tony on 087 1785384

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Tony joins the Crown Quarter Well known and multi-award-winning Wexford chef Tony Carty has joined the Crown Quarter Team as Executive Head Chef and opened Wexford’s newest restaurant Jasper’s on 1st July.

Tony brings to the Crown Quarter 38 years’ experience as a professional Chef. Having trained at Kelly’s Resort Hotel, Tony moved to Dublin to be part of the opening team of The Conrad Hilton Hotel, Ireland’s first purpose-built 5-star hotel. From there he travelled to Switzerland where he spent two years expanding his culinary experience. Returning to Ireland, Tony worked at The K Club, Kildare and Les Frere Jacques, Dublin, before heading back to Wexford where he began his long association with Ferrycarrig Hotel. Tony took a six-month leave of absence to work at The Hyatt Hotel, Grand Cayman, and returned to Ferrycarrig to become Head Chef. Tony has overseen the growth and development of Ferrycarrig where he led his team to achieve many accolades from being the first hotel in the Wexford town area to achieve 4-star status to Wedding Venue of the Year, B&W Best Sunday Lunch, two AA Rosette wins for Reeds Restaurant and Best Hotel Restaurant in Co. Wexford.

Tony is passionate about supporting local Wexford produce.

Wexford is fortunate to be surrounded by 275km of coastline providing Wexford with some of the best food produce in the country. Tony is looking forward to welcoming customers to Jasper’s restaurant at Crown Quarter from the 1st July to enjoy the exquisite dishes he has created. www.crownquarter.com n

Smoothie workshop at Gorey Library Join Deirdre from award-winning The Cool Food School for a fun, interactive, smoothie-making workshop using Wexford strawberries keeping it local and seasonal!

A mum of three and a qualified health coach, the focus of Deirdre's teaching is on fun in the kitchen when it comes to food!

Deirdre is a children's cookbook author, as well as a cooking and food educator, visiting libraries, schools and preschools to share the joy of food and encourage children to eat more fruit and veggies!

Everything Deirdre does is sensory based – so she'll be getting children to look at, smell, and feel the different ingredients. Suitable for children ages 4 and up.

Booking essential, parents/guardians must remain in Gorey Library for the duration of the workshop. if you require further assistance to participate in this event please contact the library on 053 9483820. https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/389805 n

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Feasibility Study Grants Feasibility Study Grants are designed to assist the promoter with researching market demand for a product or service and examining its sustainability.

It includes assistance with innovation including specific consultancy requirements, hiring of expertise from third level colleges, private specialists, design and prototype development.

The maximum Feasibility Study Grant payable shall be 50% of the investment or €15,000 whichever is the lesser.

Expenditure may be considered under the following headings: Market Research - Consultancy Costs - Technical Development/Prototype/ Innovation - Salary/Own Labour Research - Miscellaneous Costs Please contact Wexford LEO for an application form for the Feasibility Study Grant. Phone: 053 919 6020. Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie n

Business supports The Business Expansion Grant is designed to assist a business in its growth phase after the initial 18 month start-up period. Sole traders, partnerships or limited companies that fulfill the following criteria can apply: -

Located and operating within the LEO geographic area.

A business, which, on growth, will have the capacity to progress to the Enterprise Ireland portfolio A business employing up to 10 employees A manufacturing or internationally traded service business A domestically traded service business with the potential to trade internationally.

For more information and how to apply click here: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Financial-Supports/Business-Expansion-Grant/ The Agile Innovation Fund is now available for small businesses: Introduced by Enterprise Ireland, the Agile fund will help clients of LEO Wexford respond more quickly to market opportunities and challenges like Brexit. Offering fast-track approval and a streamlined online application process, the new Agile Innovation Fund will allow companies to access up to 45% or 50% in support for product, process or service development projects with a total cost of up to €300,000.

For more information click: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Financial-Supports/Agile%20Innovation%20Fund/ n

Green for Micro Sign up for The Local Enterprise Office Green For Micro programme – helping your business prepare for the low carbon, more resource efficient economy of the future.

Book Now: https://bit.ly/3zW6RBn This FREE initiative is available to companies with up to ten employees, and provides the mentorship and technical support your business needs to go green, covering such as resource efficiency, understanding your carbon footprint, reducing costs and implementing an environmental management system. n

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Rosslare company wins big a PROFESSIONAL HAIR LABS WINS AT NATIONAL ENTERPRISE AWARDS Professional Hair Labs, who are supported by Local Enterprise Office Wexford, were winners at this year’s National Enterprise Awards. The awards, which took place at the Mansion House in Dublin, are in their 23rd year and are run annually by the Local Enterprise Offices.

Professional Hair Labs took home the Best Export Award. Professional Hair Labs are a manufacturer of cutting-edge cosmetic products, pushing the boundaries of cosmetic innovation to bring niche solutions to the marketplace. Known best for their innovation surrounding cosmetic bonding adhesives for hair replacement, their GHOSTBOND product is the current global leading brand.

Then Wexford Co. Council Cathaoirleach Barbara-Anne Murphy congratulated Ryan, Daryl and David Margolin on winning this prestigious award demonstrating their commitment to excellence. The company currently employs 12 staff in

their premises in Rosslare and have significant expansion plans. Tom Enright, Chief Executive, Wexford County Council, also expressed his congratulations to the team in Professional Hair Labs and noted their continued commitment to developing new cosmetic formulations adding to their existing product range which they export globally.

The overall winner at the National Enterprise Awards was Wicklow aquaculture and offshore wind company, Aqualicense.

Established in 2019 by Kate Dempsey, the company has gone from strength to strength.

The company engages in consultation, planning, legal compliance and project delivery on behalf of companies in the aquaculture and offshore renewable energy industries.

They expanded their operations into the highly regulated offshore renewable energy sector in 2021 which has helped the company grow considerably and they are now looking to expand their expert-

ise into new markets internationally.

Several other companies won across a range of categories at the Awards, which were established by the Local Enterprise Offices to celebrate the impact and quality of small businesses across the country.

The Best Start-Up category was won by Acoustic Interiors supported by Local Enterprise Office Offaly. The business improves the health, wellbeing and productivity of people through intelligent acoustic design and fit-out of homes, offices and buildings.

The Green/Sustainability Award went to Cirtex, supported by Local Enterprise Office Longford. The company have created a closed-loop manufacturing business that upcycles the materials from duvets and mattresses, most of which are imported, to be reused in new products.

The Best Export category was won by Professional Hair Labs supported by Local Enterprise Office Wexford. The family-run business is a manufacturer and distributor

L-R: Padraic McElwee, Chair of LEO network, Ryan Margolin (CEO Professional Hair Labs), Breege Cosgrave (Acting Head of Enterprise at Wexford LEO), Daryl Margolin (Professional Hair Labs), Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (then Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council), Cllr Jim Moore, Damien English TD (Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail).

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at national awards of cosmetic products including GHOSTBOND, the world’s leading product for hair adhesive solutions.

The Innovation Award went to Cubbie who are supported by Local Enterprise Office Mayo. The installation, which is in over 200 schools across Ireland, enables students with neurodiversity or sensory challenges to regulate their senses with a bespoke programme to ensure their learning and academic experience is not adversely affected.

Finally, the One to Watch Award was taken by Streat School supported by Local Enterprise Office Monaghan. The business provides an end-to-end solution for those looking to enter the street food business, providing equipment, workshops and branding materials.

This year’s winners share a €50,000 investment fund and eight regional winners were also announced on the night. Those winners are: Farmony in the Dublin Region (backed by LEO Fingal)

Torpey in the South West Region (backed

by LEO Clare) Salutem Insights in the Mid East Region (backed by LEO Laois) SmartRoutes in the South Region (backed

by LEO Cork City) FeedAlpha in the South East Region (backed by LEO Carlow) Tantek 4D in the North West Region (backed by LEO Sligo) Aine’s Chocolate in the North East Region (backed by LEO Cavan) Studio Meala in the West Region (backed by LEO Roscommon) There was also an Outstanding Achievement Award presented on the night to an individual or company who has excelled in recent years. This award went to ABC Nutritionals from Clare. The Shannon based business, established in 2007, is a private label manufacturer of sports, weight management and lifestyle nutrition products. They have doubled their

workforce and turnover since 2018 with 68 now employed and hope to reach 100 by 2025 with a new facility in development.

The National Enterprise Awards are one of a number of initiatives that the Local Enterprise Offices run, to foster entrepreneurship across the country. Others include Local Enterprise Week, the Student Enterprise Programme, National Women’s Enterprise Day and Local Enterprise Showcase.

The Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities are funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland.

Established in 2014, the Local Enterprise Offices are the essential resource for any entrepreneur looking to start a business or any small business that is looking for support or advice to help them grow. Since their inception eight years ago, the Local Enterprise Offices have helped create over 20,000 jobs across the country. The LEOs work with thousands of client companies across Ireland in a diverse range of sectors offering mentoring, training, expert advice and financial supports to small businesses.

For more information see: www.LocalEnterprise.ie n

L-R: Liz Hore (Director of Services, Wexford Co. Council), Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (then Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council), Ciara Margolin, Ryan Margolin (CEO Professional Hair Labs), Damien English TD (Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail), Daryl Margolin (Professional Hair Labs), Helena Margolin, Cllr Jim Moore, Breege Cosgrave (Acting Head of Enterprise at Wexford LEO).

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Minister English visits Wexford businesses Minister Damien English’s visit to the Local Enterprise Office, Wexford, on 30th June 2022. L-R: Eamonn Hore (Deputy Chief Executive Wexford Co. Council), Cllr George Lawlor (Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council), Minister Damien English TD, Breege Cosgrave (Acting Head of Enterprise at Wexford LEO), Diarmuid Houston (Wexford County Council). Pic: Mary Browne.

Innovative enterprises in the food, bio and medical industries showcased by Wexford Local Enterprise Office.

Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English TD, visited the Wexford Local Enterprise Office (LEO) on 30th June 2022 where he met with council officials and members of the LEO team as well as visiting some of their outstanding client companies.

Minister English was greeted at Wexford County Hall by Eamonn Hore, Deputy Chief Executive and George Lawlor, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council.

Breege Cosgrave, Acting Head of Enterprise at Wexord LEO, gave a presentation on the successful work of the LEO team in supporting the SME business community in the South-East and held discussions with Minister English on their future plans for enterprise development in the county. This was followed by a presentation of a Wexford Food Family Hamper along with products from the other LEO client companies which showcased the variety of locally produced goods which are available to consumers from across Ireland and the globe.

Minister English said: “The importance of the LEO network to local businesses cannot be overstated. The LEOs provide a vital service in supporting companies whether it is through training, mentoring or with other important supports. The Wexford LEO was a vital lifeline to local businesses during the pandemic and it will now play an even more important role in providing advice and guidance as companies seek to diversify or to grow and expand.”

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Minister English then met with LEO client companies Wexford Food Family and Professional Hair Labs. The Wexford Food Family is a not-for-profit network of food producers dedicated to growing the Wexford food industry in the county through growing the business of its members. Professional Hair Labs is a manufacturer and distributor of cutting-edge cosmetic products, using innovative, modern ingredient technologies to bring niche solutions to the marketplace which solve everyday challenges for consumers.

The Minister then met with LEO team members and members of the Evaluation and Approvals Committee for discussions on the work of both teams in helping local businesses to realise their ambition for growing sales and creating more job opportunities locally.

The Minister’s next stop was Biostór Ireland, which is a technologically advanced bio storage facility for the import, certified storage and worldwide distribution of biological materials for scientific research and clinical applications. Peadar MacGabhann, Director, and Ger McCabe, Chief Operations Officer of Biostór, spoke to the Minister about their entrepreneurial journey with LEO Wexford.

Minister English concluded his visit at Hoop Medical where he met with Teddy Mudge, co-founder, and Clive Hayes, CEO. Hoop Medical specialises in the development and manufacture of advanced medical balloons for the global medical device industry. Using proprietary robotic balloon forming technology, the company develops and manufactures the balloon component of a balloon catheter device for a wide customer base.

On the conclusion of his visit, Minister English said: “I am delighted

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to be here in Wexford today and to meet with so many enterprising individuals and to learn about their businesses. I am always impressed with the diversity of business that engages with our various LEO teams all around the country. And Wexford can be proud of their local business community; with its biotechnology firms, not-for-profit network of food producers, cutting-edge cosmetic manufacturers and advanced medical products for the global medical device industry, the range of entrepreneurial spirit here in Wexford is truly inspiring. The willingness of businesses to grasp opportunities is vital in ensuring regional growth and job creation. Through the LEOs, and other agencies and supports, the Government will continue to support innovation and ambition in our business community to ensure that our economy will continue to grow and thrive.”

Top left: Minister English visits Hoop Medical in Wexford.

Top right: Minister English meets the management team of Professional Hair Labs.

Above right: Eamonn Hore (Deputy Chief Executive Wexford Co. Council) greets Minister English.

Right and below: Minister English visits Biostór in Rosslare, with local Councillors also in attendance.

All photos: Mary Browne. n

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Minister Damien English meets members of the Wexford Food Family

Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English TD, visited the Wexford Local Enterprise Office (LEO) on 30th June 2022 where he met with Councillors, Council officials, members of the LEO team as well as members of Wexford Food Family (pictured above and below) who are supported by Wexford LEO. Pics: Mary Browne.

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ENNISCORTHY TO BENEFIT FROM NEW REMOTE-WORKING FUNDING A series of new initiatives and funding from government will make remote working more accessible and attractive for local people, Fine Gael TD Paul Kehoe has said.

Following the announcement on 8th June by Minister Heather Humphreys, “At least 10,000 hot desk spaces will be provided across the country under the new Connected Hubs Voucher Scheme, which is aimed at both existing hub users, as well as those accessing digital hub facilities in Wexford for the first time. The scheme will initially provide three days of hub use per person between now and the end of August.

“Minister Humphreys also announced €5 million in funding, through the Connected Hubs 2022 Call, which will be used to build capacity and enhance existing Remote Working facilities. This is on top of the almost €9 million that was awarded applicants in 2021."

Under the funding, Enniscorthy Enter-

prise and Technology Centre is to receive €31,950 as part of a series of new initiatives to support Remote Working.

In addition to these measures, funding of €50,000 is also being provided to Wexford County Council under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.

“This will help Wexford County Council to promote remote working opportunities and Wexford communities as a destination for people considering relocating from our cities and larger towns who may want to return home and enjoy a new experience.

“It was also revealed today that the number of Remote Working facilities on the Connected Hubs Network has now reached 242. This represents over 60 per cent of the 400 hubs pledged as part of Our Rural Future, the Government’s landmark five-year rural development policy.

“The Department of Rural and Community Development has to date invested

some €100m in the development of remote working facilities under programmes such as the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund and the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.

“Fine Gael is determined to ensure balanced regional development across the country and an important element of that is making remote working an option for more people.

“The drive to encourage remote working will help revitalise towns and villages and it supports Fine Gael’s ambition and campaign to build stronger, safer communities in Wexford”, Deputy Kehoe said.

“Remote Working has been a gamechanger for thousands of people. It’s given people of all ages a better quality of life – allowing them to spend more time with their family and friends, working within their local town or village." n

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More good news at Rosslare Europort Rosslare Europort, Ireland’s number one RoRo port for direct European services, announced on 16th June 2022 that a groundbreaking new freight service – a twice weekly each way Rosslare to Zeebrugge (Belgium) service – was being launched by Finnlines.

This new service and operator for Rosslare Europort not only provides a new direct link between Ireland and continental Europe, but through Zeebrugge – one of Europe’s busiest RoRo ports – it opens up more European and global routes for Irish industry.

On 23 July 2022, Finnlines will commence the new service. The route will be operated by the ro-ro vessel, Finnpulp, which has the capacity to carry 3,259 lane metres of cargo, equivalent to around 225 trailers. There will be two departures per week from each direction, and it is hoped to expand the service further.

General Manager of Rosslare Europort Glenn Carr said, “The growth of Rosslare Europort’s direct connections to and from the European continent continues apace. Having established ourselves as

Ireland’s leading port for direct European RoRo services in 2021, the announcement by FinnLines will bring to 34 the number of direct services between Rosslare and the continent next month. Finnlines joins our existing customers for European services – Stena Line, Brittany Ferries, DFDS and Neptune Lines – in taking advantage of our location, our connectivity, our capacity, and our work with Irish industry to provide it with the best possible service.”

“The substantial increase in volume at

Rosslare Europort is making further significant investments with the purchase of an additional 18-acre site adjacent to the port and the award of a contract for its new Port Terminal Management System.

other bulk storage activity at Rosslare and will further position Rosslare Europort to attract shipping services from other ports that are, and will in the future, experience further congestion and capacity constraints.

Iarnród Éireann made the announcement as part of its overall Rosslare Europort Masterplan, which will support the future growth of port operations and greatly enhance customer experience at Rosslare Europort.

The additional site along with theMasterplan extension will ensure that the country’s importers, exporters, manufacturers and logistics sectors will have access to the leading port in Ireland for services directly connected to their markets throughout Europe and globally.

New 18-acre site Agreement has been reached by Rosslare Europort to secure 18 acres of additional lands next to the port. The site, which is zoned for commercial use, is adjacent to the new proposed freight port entrance and will have direct connection to both the port and the new port access road being constructed by Transport Infrastructure Ireland and Wexford Co. Council. The new site will add significant capacity to future RoRo, ConRo freight operations, ORE and

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Port Terminal Management System Matching the future physical port infrastructure, the digitalisation of systems and operations will deliver an enhanced, more effective and more efficient experience for freight and passenger businesses. Brock Solutions have been awarded the contract for the implementation of a new Port Terminal Management System at Rosslare Europort as part of its digitalisation roll-out plan. On

the port clearly demonstrates the shift in demand for services out of Rosslare from other hubs, we are the closest port to Europe and easily accessible to all major cities and industrial sites throughout Ireland. As major ports such as Dublin grapple with future constraints and congestion, Rosslare Europort will be further developed to help alleviate these challenges and offer real viable, efficient and sustainable alternative services and connectivity for the greater good of the wider economy,” said Carr.

completion of the project, Rosslare Europort will become one of smartest ports operating in Europe through the deployment of new technology and systems across its freight and passenger services. The new Port Terminal System will include: n Improved freight and passenger check-in through Smart Gate technology n Vehicle Track ’n’ Trace Technology n Real time cloud-based reporting n Full damage recording / reporting n Port Simulation System n Controlled parking / storage management n Full CCTV / Security Monitoring n Improved efficiency and traffic management system The implementation programme commenced in June 2022 and full-system roll-out is expected to be completed over the next 36 months. n

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Enniscorthy’s business zone to benefit from future-proofed Siro broadband ENNISCORTHY’S NEW PRIMARY CARE CENTRE AND QUARRY BUSINESS PARK CONNECTS TO FUTUREPROOFED SIRO BROADBAND Broadband network operator, SIRO, the joint venture between ESB and Vodafone, rolling out a 100% Fibre-to-the-Premises network across Ireland, has announced its plans to connect Quarry Business Park in Enniscorthy.

The Enniscorthy Primary Care Centre, located in Quarry Park, will receive SIRO’s enterprise offering, enabling the health centre to use online services to support the care of their outpatients within the community.

The last two years have seen health centres and GPs across Ireland migrate their services online to accommodate the healthcare needs of their out-patients. Online prescriptions, patient management and appointment management are just some of the critical everyday uses of online health services now available to Enniscorthy patients. The connectivity that SIRO provides will enable the primary care centre to ensure its outpatients have ease-of-access to its services, without compromising on quality of care.

prox 5,000 premises in the town can order SIRO’s residential or business broadband.

Quarry Park in Enniscorthy is the first business park in the town to be connected with SIRO’s gigabit Fibre-To-The-Premises broadband. As part of its roll-out in Enniscorthy, SIRO aims to also connect the Old Dublin Road Business Park.

One business within the Quarry Business Park that is availing of SIRO’s enterprise offering is Datapac, Ireland’s leading ICT solutions provider, which specialises in technology innovation for the public and private sector.

SIRO first announced its roll-out in Enniscorthy in 2021 as part of its wider expansion in County Wexford, and at present ap-

Speaking about the partnership, Head of Enterprise, Tarah Goldrick, said: “We’re delighted to announce that SIRO’s enterprise product can now serve the businesses and service providers within Quarry Business Park. We are seeing a massive shift in businesses adopting digital practices like CRM systems, online security and innovation solutions. Reliable and resilient fibre connectivity is the cornerstone of any quality business.

The businesses within Quarry Business Park now have the fastest and most resilient connection available on the market, benefiting the wider community in Enniscorthy.”

Commenting, Dr. Mairead Kelly who is based in the Primary Care Centre said: “Here at the Primary Care Centre in Enniscorthy, we recognise the growing need for reliable broadband in the services we provide for our patients and for our day to day administration. The pandemic accentuated the need for health services to go online and without suitable broadband our out-patients could not make much needed appointments or access their prescriptions. SIRO’s broadband offering allows us to seamlessly manage the digital aspects of our health centre, allowing us to prioritise our patients’ needs.”

SIRO’s broadband is available to over 5,000 premises in Enniscorthy with residential and enterprise offerings, which can be ordered through the following retailers: Digiweb, Sky, Vodafone, Blacknight, Carnsore Broadband, Fastcom and Pure Telecom.

Visit https://siro.ie/broadband-for-business or email info@siro.ie for more information. n

5th July 2022 - Page 93

SlaNey SlaNeypetS ad

Dog Pet Care Course in Gorey Library Dogs can be your best friend, but we need to know how to understand them so we can all stay safe and happy. Together in a fun and interactive fashion we can learn what our dogs are saying to us and when to give them their space.

To reserve a place please follow the link: https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/3898055 Gorey Library: Saturday, July 16th, 11.30am-12.30pm n

Funding available for animal charities Minister Browne encourages County Wexford’s Registered Animal Charities to apply for the 2022 Animal Welfare Grant Programme.

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne is encouraging County Wexford’s Registered Animal Charities to apply to the 2022 Animal Welfare Grant Programme for Registered Animal Charities.

Confirming that the application process is now open, Minister

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Browne explained how “animal welfare is a government priority, and I am keen to see that County Wexford’s animal welfare charities receive grants from the Department of Agriculture to support their valuable work.”

Last December, Co. Wexford groups received €133,625 in funding.

Applications form can be downloaded from this link: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/e881c-animalwelfare/#funding-to-animal-welfare-organisations n

SlaNey petS

MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy.

T: (053) 9233187, 9236674.

F: (053) 9236674.

E: moynevet@gmail.com

VET DIARY FOR JULY

with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital

It’s July , the height of summer... We hope! Schools are out and there is a real sense of holidays in the air.

ation was looking grave. We did the conventional treat-

The long days are wonderful – bright mornings and long evenings to do everything from matches, swimming, walking in the woods, or if we're lucky enough to make it to the beach. It’s a time to regenerate the batteries, soak up the sun’s rays and albeit it has been mixed weather the long-term forecast is predicting hot days ahead and that'll do me. The optimist in me will keep the focus on the hot days ahead and the Buddhist in me is telling me to live for the now and worry about that when it happens.

It can be hard to do though...

employed the services of another lady who also did

All too often we do the same with our animals. We get a possible diagnosis and we're resigned to a fate that that's it... nothing can be done... But for sure often times there is plenty that can be done... ye just gotta think outside the box, approach the case differently and who knows what can happen. Such was the case recently when we had a dog presented with hind limb paralysis. She couldn't stand up on her back legs. It had happened suddenly and after doing all the scans, x-rays etc we realised the situ-

ments, used complementary treatments too and hoped for the best. The owner, being a very resourceful lady, complementary techniques including zoopharmacognancy... now there's a mouthful!

It basically uses the premise that if you present the animals with the various healing oils they will opt for the ones that suit and best fit their condition. In this case she offered the dog four different types of essential oils – a drop in four dishes of water... The dog kept going to one particular bowl and slowly but surely she started making progress and is now after making an almost 100% recovery...

Whatever did the trick, we can never say for certain, but trusting the animals to have the intelligence to help themselves is certainly an interesting concept and whereas there was a time I'd have dismissed this as bonkers, now I've come to see that these fellow creatures are bringing a lot more to the table than just eating their grub and going for walks!

Enjoy your summer and enjoy the magic these creatures bring to us every day... n

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

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

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

5th July 2022 - Page 95

SlaNey SlaNey motoriNg ad

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

Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at

www.changinglanes.ie

PEUGEOT e-208 Peugeot is fast pursuing the electric dream with a slew of new hybrid and pure electric models. Many of the French brand's key models now offer some sort of electrified option - from the smallest 208 to the popular 3008 SUV and new Peugeot 308 hatchback and estate.

The Peugeot e-208 offers a pure electric drive in Peugeot's compact and stylish small hatchback. It goes up against other small EVs such as the Opel Corsa-

e, Renault Zoe and Mini Electric.

But the Peugeot e-208 is definitely one of the most stylish. There are three trim levels available - Active, Allure Pack and GT. The GT model is the sportiest of them all with 17" diamond cut alloy wheels, gloss black around the wheel arches, black roof and a chequered flag effect grille. But even entry level cars get 16” alloys and LED headlights. Electric versions of the 208 have just a small 'e' on the C-pillar and tailgate, and a subtle blue finish to the Peugeot lion on the front grille.

With pricing starting from €28,730 in-

cluding VRT relief and SEAI grant, the Peugeot e-208 is also keenly priced among small electric cars. Granted it will cost more to buy than petrol and diesel versions of the 208. The Peugeot e-208 is also one of the most fun to drive small electric cars, with a range of up to 362 km measured by industry standards.

Though in real world driving 280 km seems more realistic once factors such as the time of year and your driving style are taken into account.

The cabin of the Peugeot e-208 stands out for its quality, with an upmarket feel that can be hard to find in the very smallest electric cars. There's lots of gloss

Peugeot e-208

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SlaNey motoriNg black enhancing the cabin's stylish design and the beautiful Peugeot i-Cockpit.

charging is also possible using the standard CCS adaptor. Charging at the maximum 100 kW, the e208 can be 80% charged in 30 minutes.

Interior

In the centre of the dash there is a 7" touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though Allure Pack and GT models get a more impressive 10" touchscreen. The ventilation controls are in the screen, but the elegant piano key underneath offer a shortcut to switch between menus quickly. Standard equipment includes automatic air conditioning, push button start and cruise control.

from town to rural roads to motorways.

The e-208 is a small car so rear legroom is limited, though it's not impossible to carry adults. With the position of the battery in the e-208, Peugeot has managed to keep interior space and boot space the same as petrol and diesel 208s. The boot is compact too at 311 litres, but you can let the rear seats down for carrying larger items.

The e-208 is good fun to drive with agile handling and light steering. The 136hp motor in the e-208 provides enough power and the car moves effortlessly

On short journeys and in town is where the e-208 really shines, with the range of the car offering plenty of comfort between charging. The range diminishes more rapidly in high-speed motorway driving, but with a stop planned for charging on long trips, it's still a decent enough performance for the e-208.

And when it comes to charging, the e208's 50kWh battery is pretty swift at adding the kilometres. With a 7kW wallbox installed at home, it will take about 7.5 hours to charge the e-208. Fast DC

Electric suits the 208 very well. The Peugeot e-208 is super stylish, with a beautiful interior that feels more upmarket than much of the competition. The e-208's 50kWh battery offers decent performance, particularly in the town and city environs where these small cars really feel at home. The Peugeot e208 makes a great introduction to electric motoring. Like competitors, it is more expensive than an equivalent petrol or diesel car but there are many benefits to switching to electric at this time.

Model tested: Peugeot e-208 GT Price: €33,285 Battery: 50 kWh Range: 362km (WLTP) Power: 136 hp Torque: 260 Nm Top speed: 150 km/h Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 8.1 seconds Motor Tax: €120 per year n

AUTO TINTING TEL: 053 9430013 Arklow Road, Gorey

Lifetime Warranty Professional Accredited Installers Complete Range of Tints incl. NCT info@coatek.ie www.coatek.ie info@coatek.ie www.coatek.ie

AUTO REPAIR ENNISCORTHY

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

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

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

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Free classic car & vintage tractor show

A public showcase of some of the finest classic and vintage cars is set to take place on Saturday, July 9th, at the WWETB Waterford Training Centre located at Waterford Industrial Estate, from 10.30am.

Some of the Finest Classic Cars & Vintage Tractors to be on show at Free Classic Car Show on July 9th.

Some of the finest classic cars and vintage tractors are set to go on display at a free classic car show hosted by Waterford Training Centre located in the Waterford Industrial Estate on Saturday, July 9th, from 10.30 am to 1.30 pm.

The show will be hosted by the course leaders at the Classic Car Restoration Course at the WWETB Waterford Training Centre. The showcase is a celebration of the works completed by the course participants who have taken part in either the Classic Car Restoration day course or the evening course over the last 20 weeks. The Classic Car Restoration Course was launched in 2016 at the Waterford Training Centre, part of Waterford Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB) and it is the only course of its kind in the entire country.

In addition, the team behind the Agricultural Mechanics Apprenticeship at WWETB are joining the event and will be showcasing a display of vintage tractors alongside up to 150 classic cars and motorbikes.

The Classic Car Restoration Course Instructor Pat Bolger has over 40 years of experience in the motor trade and in restoring old cars. Commenting on the upcoming event Pat says, “We are delighted to showcase the work processes that take place in classic car restoration. The popularity of this course has been fantastic and the turnout of works and finished motors is to the highest standard, and car show visitors will be in for a treat on July 9th.

“We will have approximately 150 to 160 cars, bikes and vans on the day. These will include a pair of Borgward's, a 1932 Ford hot rod, a couple of American Pickups, a 1908 Reo, 1926 Essex, 1951 Indian Chief Motorcycle plus a host of Beetles, Anglias, Escorts, BMWs and Toyotas. There will be two prizes on the day, and these will be presented to the Best Classic and Best Tractor judged by the participants in the show.”

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Commenting on the event and course, Shay Cummins, Assistant Manager at the Waterford Training Centre, says, “To date over 200 people have taken part and gained qualifications in our Classic Car Restoration Course. We have course participants come from all over to gain this qualification, from Dublin to Cork and all across the Southeast region. This event will demonstrate the professional skills these course participants gained and offer an opportunity to the public to gain a little insight into what do here at the WWETB Waterford Training Centre.”

Members of the public are welcome to attend the Classic Car Restoration Showcase at the Waterford Training Centre, Waterford Industrial Park on the Cork Road on Saturday, July 9th, from 10.30 am – for further details see: www.facebook.com/Waterford-Wexford-Training-Services Classic/Vintage enthusiasts are also very welcome to bring along their own vehicle and enter it for 'best in show' on the day. n

SlaNey Sport

Wexford hurling teams of the sixties fondly remembered in new book In a book published last month, prominent Carlow businessman and keen hurling fan Tom Byrne sings the praises of the Wexford hurling teams of the sixties.

Byrne’s book, entitled Three Miles of Road - Tales of Country Life in the Sixties, focuses on his memories of growing up in Graiguenaspidogue, including a local road sign pointing towards Wexford that evoked thoughts of Wexford hurling prowess.

As he generously recalls, “At that stage in our young lives Wexford was a near mythical place populated by giants such as the Rackard brothers, Nick O’Donnell, Ned Wheeler, Hopper McGrath, Jim English and many others who played hurling for Wexford when they’d won the All-Ireland a couple of years previously. We listened regularly to Michael O’Hehir on a Sunday afternoon on our little Bush radio to hear the exploits of these men. We heard about clubs and places such as Buffers Alley, Oulart the Ballagh, Faythe Harriers, Rathnure, the Shelmaliers and the Rapparees.”

Byrne also has fond memories of the Artane Boys Band playing ‘The Boys of Wexford’, ‘Kelly the Boy from Killane’ or ‘Boolavogue’ at Croke Park when Wexford were playing. As he puts it, “We had learned a lot of these songs at school, so when the band struck up ‘Kelly the Boy from Killane’ we were able to sing along with them. The Rackard brothers also hailed from the village of Killane, so we had our very own boy from Killane in the person of Nicky Rackard, the captain of that great Wexford team. He fitted the bill for us in almost every way with his dashing speed, and he almost matched the words of the song as we belted out “seven feet is his height, with some inches to spare and he looked like a king in command”.

And when Nicky stepped up to take one of his frees and slapped the sliothar past the diving goalkeeper into the back of the net, he really was our very own king.”

Three Miles of Road comes with generous endorsements from several literary figures, including Wexford resident Jackie Hayden, author of the number one bestseller My Boy, and whose editorial assistance and advice is acknowledged by Byrne in his book. n

If you enjoy a great game of golf, don't miss the annual Ferns Village Golf Classic on Friday, July 8th. To book a place contact Tom on 087-2142339 or Teresa on 086-6049340. Book now to avoid disappointment. n

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SlaNey SlaNey Sport ad

Lifeguard course in Enniscorthy

Sports Hub update The Waterfront Pool & Leisure Centre in Enniscorthy will be hosting a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification from Monday 18th July - Friday 22 July 2022, 9am-6pm.

For more information call 053 92 34443. n

Phase 2 of the Enniscorthy Sports Hub project consisting of a sports equipment storage area, changing rooms, toilets, showers and a small office was granted government funding of €300,000 in 2020. Approval of tender documents has eventually been received from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, so Wexford County Council advertised the contract on 8th June with a tender response deadline of 6th July 2022. So hopefuly work can now commence later this year. n

Fitness visits to Co. Wexford schools Another sign that life is returning to normal following a two-year break forced by the Covid-19 pandemic is seen in the announcement by Fyffes that it is to resume its programme of fitness visits to Wexford schools commencing in September.

Since its launch just four years ago, over 720 Wexford pupils had been introduced to the Fit Squad programme before Covid and resulting school closures forced Fyffes to bring its message online.

Delivered by Irish health and fitness expert Tom Dalton, each visit of 45-minutes

duration includes an active workout designed to improve children’s general fitness through engagement and fun-filled activities, supported by talks and tips on healthy eating. Schools interested in participating are invited to register at www.fyffesfitsquad.ie/register n

Irish Olympic athletes David Gillick and Phil Healy are supporting the announcement by Fyffes that it is to resume its children’s fitness programme of live school visits in September.

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SlaNey Sport

Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh soccer team with St Patrick’s School team and their manager John O’Rourke.

St Patrick’s emerges victorious On 2nd June, the team in St Patrick’s school faced old rivals, Gaelscoil Enniscorthy, in the end-of-year league decider, on the campus of St Patrick’s.

St Patrick’s were first on the scoreboard with a brace from Shane Fortune, but Gaelscoil came back on the stroke of halftime with a goal from Blathnaid Cullen.

The two teams were level on points and faced a playoff. Tension was in the air and the referee James Fortune had a tough game on his hands.

After a stern team talk from coach John O’Rourke, St Pats made it 3-1 after the break. Gaelscoil responded with a goal from Saoirse Fortune but it wasn’t enough to prevent a St Patrick’s victory, and success for St Pat’s also in the league win-

With supporters from both schools out in force, it led to a great atmosphere.

ning by 25 points to Gaelscoil’s 22.

Huge thanks to Wexford County Council for its financial support. And thanks also to coaches Kevin Dugdale, Podge O’Toole, Sean Lambert, Brandon Mills, Miley Fortune and manager John O’Rourke. Thanks to the Gaelscoil and Youthreach Enniscorthy Plc students for participating during the season. All the partricipants are already looking forward to next season. n

Celebrating the big Five-Oh at Moyne Rangers Moyne Rangers football club in Enniscorthy is closing in on its 50th anniversary.

All members and former members are being asked to share any photographs they may have that could be used as part of the celebrations. Please email any photos to moynerangers@gmail.com or the organisers can collect from you, scan them and return the originals to you!

The clubs’s 50th Anniversary Dinner Dance takes place on Saturday 30th July in the Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy.

See accompanying graphic for more details. n

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Moyne Rangers remembering Joe Doyle

Back row L-R: Donal Donnegan (manager), Philip (Pip) Murphy, Matty Kinnaird, John Ormonde, Ricky Mitchell, Tom Hogan, Brian (Mouse) Davis, Mick Hughes, James Porter, Willy Browne (captain), Justin Kehoe, Anthony Breen, Keith Kelly, Ger Mitchell, Merdith Porter (manager), John Foley, Paul (Titch) Mitchell, Michael Foley.

Front row L-R: James Breen (manager), Ger Gartland, John Murphy, Aidan Browne, Sean (Remo) Redmond (captain), James (Joc) Kehoe, Dan Cogley, Anthony Grant, David Connolly, Thomas Redmond, Derek Hendrick, Darren Quinn, Joe Doyle.

Lisa Browne McDonald and Sinéad Browne operating the BBQ.

On 3rd July 2022, Moyne Rangers in Enniscorthy held a Family Field Day at its pitch in town, with planty of food options, games, activities and DJs. One of the main activities was a match between the club’s ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams of 1998/1999 in memory of the late Joe Doyle, a loyal and dedicated member of the club, and a great colleague of ours here in the Slaney News.

Our photo above shows the teams from 1998/1999 who reassembled for Joe’s match (see photo below).

The benefiting charity is Cystic Fibrosis – a cause very close to Joe's heart.

Well done to the organisers for celebrating Joe's life in this very appropriate way. n

3rd July 2022 in memory of Joe Doyle. Back row L-R (red players): Willie Peare, John Courtney, Brian Davis, Tom Hogan, Michael Hughes, John Timmons, Willie Browne, Keith Kelly, Anthony Breen, John Ormonde, Ciaran Breen, John Foley, Aidan Browne Snr, Aaron Davis.

Front (blue players) L-R: Robbie Walsh, Ger Gartland, Damien Breen, Brian O’Neill, Darren Quinn, Aidan Browne, Sean Remo Redmond, David Connolly, Colm Redmond, Andrew Browne, Darragh Breen, John Murphy, Stephen Tyrrell, Anthony Grant.

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WEXFORD’S MENAPIANS ATHLETIC CLUB RECEIVES TEXACO SPORT FUNDING Wexford’s Menapians Athletic Club, county winners in the recent Texaco Support for Sport initiative, has been presented with a cheque for €5,000 which will be used to reserve venues and fund equipment for its proposed Wexford Summer League, an undertaking aimed at getting young athletes involved in the sport.

Established in 2001, Menapians AC is a progressive athletics club with a diverse membership in terms of age and ability ‘from young to old, from joggers to

Olympians’. With training provided at various locations – including Rosslare Strand, Wexford CBS and Enniscorthy Sports Hub – the club maintains a prominent presence across the county.

Under the scheme – similar to that which proved successful last year when the Wexford county award was presented to Kilmore United FC – the presentation was made to the Club by Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited, the company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand.

Now in its second year, the Texaco Support for Sport initiative sees an annual fund of €130,000 set aside for allocation in equal amounts of €5,000 to successful applicants chosen on a county-by-county basis. Overseeing the adjudication process is Texaco Support for Sport ambassador, former Irish rugby international and broadcaster, Donncha O’Callaghan.

Entries to the Texaco Support for Sport 2023 initiative will open this Autumn. n

The presentation to Wexford’s Menapians Athletic Club members Mick McKeown, Catherine O’Connor, Oliver Stack, Margaret Malone, and Roisin O’Reilly and Padraig Kelly (both front), was made at Boggan’s Service Station, Wexford. Pictured with them was Texaco Dealer Mark Boggan (centre) and Valero Area Sales Manager, Niall O’Rourke (second from right).

5th July 2022 - Page 103

SlaNey hiStory SlaNey ad & heritage

The French Connection As they say ‘it’s an ill wind’ that doesn’t benefit someone, so as Brexit digs in for the long-haul making Rosslare more and more important as an EU port destination, relationships between Wexford and France, and Normandy in particular, are being explored and developed.

Our historical connection was very much in evidence recently at the Ports Past and Present Maritime Festival organised

by Leo Coy and his amazing committee, at Harbour Rosslare, where Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society welcomed the Lord Mayor of Ouistreham, Normandy, to the Wexford port, the colourful group in full Norman regalia, embracing and celebrating our shared heritage.

With informative talks and a host of activities throughout the weekend, the inaugural Festival was a major success, bringing our two cultures together in an effort to copper-fasten the links between our common Norman back story.

It was indeed heart-warming to also see a Welsh delegation share the Festival weekend, declaring adamantly their wish that the close association between the regions would continue and prosper despite Brexit.

A week later, it was the turn of New Ross to host our Norman allies at a reception at the Dunbrody Historic Centre for the President of Normandy Herve Morin and Ambassador Vincent Guerend.

Members of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society at Rosslare with Roman Bail, the Mayor of Ouistreham, Normandy, and his entourage.

After his tour of the town of New Ross, President Morin told Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society that they have similar re-enactment groups in France and at the present time are developing an old Norman site at Caen, not far from Bayeux. €20 million is being pumped into the Caen development to reconstruct a Norman fortress as it would have been built in the 12th century using exactly the same materials and building techniques, with a view to holding major re-enactments going forward.

President Morin presented me with his

card and contact details so we could keep in touch.

Watch this space – a trip to Normandy could be part of our re-enactment future.

The President and his entourage were then treated to the most deliciously prepared banquet showcasing all the excellent food of Wexford, the quality, array and presentation having the desired effect.

Two Normandy delegations in the same week is no accident, the links between our two cultures have never been stronger, with the Normans the common factor.

Members of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society on the beach at Rosslare.

I have been saying it for years and I am so delighted that finally it seems Wexford has decided to take ownership of the Normans.

They landed here in 1169, and as Leo Coy pointed out in his most informative talk on Norman names, they are still here with us today – Busher, Codd, Devereux, Stafford, Lambert, Rossiter, Power, Hore, Furlong, and many, many more.

Waterford has laid claim to the Vikings – it’s time Wexford declared the Normans, and all that go with them, her own.

– Words and all photos by Maria Nolan

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SlaNey hiStory & heritage

Above left: Maria Nolan and Tom Boland of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society with Mayor of Ouistreham Roman Bail at the Ports Past and Present festival in Rosslare. Above right: Minister James Browne TD, Maria Nolan and Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy.

Below left: Wexford County Council Director of Services Eamonn Hore with members of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society in New Ross. Below right: President of Normandy Herve Morin with Senator Malcolm Byrne.

Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society’s Maria Nolan with Cllr Michael Sheehan in New Ross.

Members of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Caption Society ???

Graham Cadogan, Tom Boland and Edel Kelly.

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Vinegar Hill – 224th Anniversary In beautiful June sunshine on the eve of the summer solstice, Enniscorthy faithful gathered once again on the town’s most famous icon, Vinegar Hill, to remember and appreciate those who went before us, sacrificing themselves for the freedom we enjoy today.

Never was it more poignant, on this the 224th Anniversary of the Battle of Vinegar Hill 1798, as the world currently experiences the rages of the Russian aggressor on the freedom of the people of Ukraine.

The dignified ceremony introduced eloquently by Derek Meyler, 1798 Centre, began with a procession of pikemen and women from Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society, to the hill, led by lone piper Jimmy Cooper.

Addresses were given by first citizen of the town – Chairman of the Municipal District Council Cathal Byrne, new Chair of Wexford County Council George Lawlor, saying that he was honoured that this was his first official engagement in his new position and treated the audience to an emotive rendition of Boolavogue, followed by Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy and Sean Doyle of the 1798 Committee.

Prayers were said for all the fallen of the Hill on that fateful Maria Nolan with Cllr George Lawlor (Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council)

Emily Murphy lays a wreath.

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day 224 years ago by newly installed Administrator of St. Aidan’s Cathedral, Fr. Tom Dalton, and Rev. Leslie Crampton, Church of Ireland, deputising for Rev. Nicola Halford, who was away on holidays.

Also in attendance were Deputy Johnny Mythen, Councillors Aidan Browne, Kathleen Codd-Nolan, John O`Rourke and Jackser Owens, Director of Services Carolyne Godkin and acting Town Manager Bernie Quigley.

Wreaths were laid at the Monument by Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy and Emily Murphy on behalf of the Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society who received tremendous praise from all speakers for their mammoth contribution to Enniscorthy history, attending at all events, throughout the county and beyond.

Master of Ceremonies Derek Meyler closed the nostalgic and moving commemoration, organised by the staff of the Municipal District Council and the 1798 Centre, calling on re-enactor Tim Corrigan to sing the Croppy Boy and piper Jimmy Cooper to play the National Anthem.

Once again Enniscorthy does itself proud remembering its historic past and honouring those who made us who we are.

– Words and pics by Maria Nolan Seamus Rafter with Tim Corrigan.

Ray Murphy with Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan.

SlaNey hiStory & heritage

Words spoken by Sean Doyle on 21 June 2022 at the Annual Commemoration of the Battle of Vinegar Hill: I welcome you all to the Annual Commemoration of the Battle of Vinegar Hill. I want to thank the staff of the 1798 Centre for their efforts in organising the event each year. Our appreciation is also due to the members of the Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society for adding to our knowledge of historical events throughout a wide area of Ireland. To our Pikemen and Pikewomen our admiration for their steadfastness and reminding us of the heroism of the Insurgents who fought so valiantly for our freedom during the summer of 1798.

I cannot let this occasion pass without mentioning the late Nicky Furlong. Nicky passed away on 21 March 2022. He was an active member of Comoradh ’98 and was considered an authority on the 1798 Rebellion. Nicky wrote the definitive biography of Father John Murphy who was very involved in the battle fought on this hill two hundred and twenty four years ago.

During last year’s Commemoration Ceremonies, Brian Ó Cléirigh gave a very interesting talk on the Tricolour which I found to be very informative. I want to refer to a recent publication ‘Vinegar Hill: The Last Stand of the Wexford Rebels of 1798’.

Its joint editors are Ronan O’Flaherty and Jacqui Hynes and it contains 336 pages. It is quite comprehensive and covers many aspects of the battle, its combatants, its archaeology, and of the hill itself. I believe it is the standard for anyone with an interest in Vinegar Hill and its famous Battle. It comes down on the side of not too much interference with the fabric of the hill.

I’m assuming you all know the story of the Battle of Vinegar Hill so I’m not going to deal with the actual battle. I’m going to quote two people who wrote about the views and the landscapes as seen from the hill. First is from William Bulfin’s book ‘Rambles in Éirinn’ which he wrote in 1907 after cycling around Ireland – “The crest is flat topped and covered with thin grass mixed with heather and stunted whins. I plucked some of the heather to send to certain Wexfordmen far away.

There is the ruin of an old windmill in the centre of the small plateau which was occupied by the Insurgents. On one corner of the crest the rock strata rise slantingly out of the heather and this is the highest part of the hill. I stood there in the glory of a bright September morning and took a good long look over the wide ridges and rolling plains of Wexford and down the pleasant valley of the Slaney. I shall never forget it. The sunlight streamed down between scattered patches of cloud and fell upon the masses of vapour which the wind was rolling from off the fields and streams and woods. Miles and miles of fertile land well streaked with the track of industrious cultivation were visible on every side, thinly veiled or faintly blurred by the soft transparencies which tinted the fragrant earth with shimmering gamuts of colour, from opal green to amber, from frosted silver to pearl grey, and from chestnut brown to burnished gold. It was a picture which would have impressed me by its superlative beauty at any time, or seen in any land. But the historic glam-

L-R: Ethan Doyle, Eamonn Doyle who wrote the poem in the text below, Sean Doyle and Ted Morrissey.

our of its ‘glorious pride and sorrow’ made its natural loveliness doubly fascinating.”

Next I’m going to quote our own Micheál Tóibín who wrote, “In the town of our day, too, there is much that is picturesque and lovable. Looking down on it through the evening mists, it takes on a medieval character, grey, placid, restful; it seems like something that has wandered out of the glamorous past, across the silent centuries, fragrant with the memories of their passing.

In how many hearts, some in far-off lands, this ‘kindly spot, this friendly town’ means Home, with all the magic that simple word conveys! ‘Tis true that time has brought its changes, but as we look down from the hill above, we are impressed by so much that has not changed; from here all the yesterdays, to-days and to-morrows seem to merge into that timeless stream we call tradition. And we pray that as the ‘years like great black oxen tread the world’ they leave their footmark here, sparing so much that is old and good and beautiful.”

I’ll conclude by reading a recently written poem.

Freedom’s Footsteps It’s my daily privilege to walk where you walked; A humbling honour to talk where you talked.

My steps are the steps of the free, But the cost of that is plain to see.

Breathe in, and the air is thick with Terror, Anger, Confusion, Pride and Love, I breathe in your painful story, breath by breath An emotional battlefield flooding my senses but love floats above.

To stand where you stood and willingly gave your life, It’s impossible not to feel love of family, Love for home; so strong you took on cannon with pike, Worries of modern life pale next to your bravery.

To walk Vinegar Hill is a march into the past, But each step taken here, ghostly friends hold you steadfast, Their spirit and sacrifice inspire and nurture As you walk in the past towards a better future. n

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Vinegar Hill book lauded at Listowel Writers Week “Vinegar Hill – The Last Stand of the Wexford Rebels of 1798”, edited by Dr Ronan O’Flaherty and Jacqui Hynes, was awarded second place in the prestigious Nilsson Local Heritage Writing Award 2022 at the recent Listowel Writers Week.

The book, supported by Wexford County Council and published by Four Courts Press, offers new insights into what happened at Vinegar Hill on that fateful day on 21st June 1798 and features work by a multi-disciplinary research programme involving archaeologists, historians, folklorists, architectural historians and military specialists.

The event was attended by Jacqui Hynes (see accompanying photo) who accepted the award on behalf of the entire research team.

“Vinegar Hill – The Last Stand of the Wexford Rebels of 1798” is available from all good bookshops or direct from Four Courts Press. n

On 2nd July 2022, as part of the Wexford Literary Arts Festival, the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Enniscorthy was commemorated with a re-enactment in the town by Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society and Lord Edward’s Own. Above L-R: Sean Haughey TD, Cllr Jackser Owens, Cllr Aidan Browne (Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District), Cllr George Lawlor (Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council), Minister James Browne TD.

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224th Anniversary of the Battle of Vinegar Hill

21st June 2022 at the Annual Commemoration of the Battle of Vinegar Hill: Above left: Cllr George Lawlor (Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council) with journalist and broadcaster Dan Walsh. Above right: Then Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Cathal Byrne, Maria Nolan, Cllr Jackser Owens, Ruairí Ryan, Chairperson Wexford Ógra Fianna Fáil. Below left: Billy Stafford, Emma Dwyer, Graham Cadogan, Eve Furlong and Derek Meyler of the National 1798 Rebellion Centre. Below right: Johnny Mythen TD, Tim Corrigan, and Riain and Rory O’Connor. Bottom left: Bernie Quigley (Acting District Manager, Enniscorthy Municipal District), Edel Kelly (Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society), Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan. Bottom centre: Odhran Morrissey, Cllr Jackser Owens, James Morrissey and Flynn Morrissey. Bottom right: Bernie Quigley (Acting District Manager, Enniscorthy Municipal District), Cllr Aidan Browne (since elected Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District), and Carolyne Godkin (Director of Services, Wexford County Council).

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Rebellion Day! In the lead up to the 21st June, the longest day, and the 224th Anniversary of the Battle of Vinegar Hill, Manager of the Castle and the 1798 Centre Mico Hassett and Deputy Manager Eve Furlong organised Rebellion Day at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre on Sunday 19th June from 12 – 4pm.

The well planned event had everything from stall holders with tasty strawberries and creative art and crafts to traditional Irish music by the Wild Turkeys, who had toes tapping and hands clapping all around the picturesque surrounds of the venue.

Expert Blacksmith Finin Liam Christie was kept busy for the afternoon fashioning pikes for the pikemen, women, and children of Enniscorthy Historical Re-

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enactment Society (EHRS) who were delighted with the interest shown by young and old in the weaponry, uniforms, and stories of the Battle of Vinegar Hill.

With musket, pistols, and cannon, members of EHRS demonstrated the loading and firing of weapons, as well as giving instruction in the use of sword, pike and bayonet bringing history to life once again, showing what the Hill above our town might have sounded and looked like on that fateful day 224 years ago.

Well done to Mico Hassett and her staff for organising this most excellent, free, historic event and can we have many more like it over the summer months please.

– Words and some pics by Maria Nolan

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VINEGAR HILL – LINKING ENNISCORTHY AND AUSTRALIA Brad Bunting, Deputy Mayor of Blacktown, near Sydney, Australia, paid a visit with his wife, Norma (who was born in Dublin), to Enniscorthy on 28th June 2022.

Mr Bunting and his wife climbed to the top of Vinegar Hill and was later presented with a copy of Jacqui Hynes' prizewinning book about Vinegar Hill at Enniscorthy Castle where he was greeted by Wexford County Council officials and local Councillors, including Leas Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Cathal Byrne, and Councillors John O'Rourke and Jackser Owens.

Blacktown is home to its own Vinegar Hill monument (see photo below). Some of the rebels of the Australian Vinegar Hill battle were actually veterans of the Enniscorthy Vinegar Hill battle.

Right: Bernie Quigley (Acting District Manager, Enniscorthy Municipal District), Brad Bunting (Deputy Mayor, Blacktown City Council, Australia), Norma Bunting, Cathal Byrne (Leas Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District). n

Above left: Brad Bunting (Deputy Mayor, Blacktown City Council, Australia), being presented with a copy of her Vinegar Hill book by Jacqui Hynes. Above right: Jacqui Hynes, Cllr Jackser Owens, Cllr Cathal Byrne (Leas Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District), Brad Bunting, Norma Bunting, Cllr John O’Rourke, Carolyne Godkin (Director of Services, Wexford County Council), Bernie Quigley (Acting District Manager, Enniscorthy Municipal District).

Vinegar Hill monument, Blacktown, Australia.

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The ‘Battle of Enniscorthy’ On 2nd July 2022 as part of the Wexford Literary Arts Festival, the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Enniscorthy which raged for four days from 1st-4th July 1922 between pro- and antitreaty forces, was commemorated with a reenactment in the town by Enniscorthy Historical Reenactment Society and Lord Edward’s Own.

Top left: Cllr Aidan Browne (Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District) addresses the crowd. Above left: Organiser Maria Nolan with dignitaries in the background. Below left: Minister James Browne speaks. Bottom right: Tommy O’Sullivan and Paul Kehoe TD.

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Oulart’s well twinned with one in Wales TOBARMACLÚRA TWINNED WITH ST DAVID’S WELL, BRIDELL, WALES At a beautifully simple ceremony on the lands of Martin and Siobhán Dempsey, Killagowan, Oulart, on 22 June, the Feast of St Mochua, the 7th century Tobarmaclúra (St. Mochua’s Well) was twinned with the well of St. David’s Church, Bridell, Wales.

Standing there in its ancient site and looking resplendant for the occasion, stood Tobarmaclúra, once famous for its good effects on ailments of the eye. It has now been opened to public access by the Dempsey family in a very generous contribution to the local community. Its inclusion in the new Camino from Ferns to St. David’s in Wales under the Ancient Connections scheme run

by Wexford and Pembrokeshire County Councils is very appropriate because, as an tAthair Séamus de Vál, former parish priest of Oulart, pointed out, St. Aidan had been educated in Wales by St. David and that Mochua ‘was the immediate successor of Aidan or Maodhóg, whom we revere as the first bishop of Fearna. Mochua’s feast-day, the 22nd of June, is referred to in the ancient Leabhar Breac as ...the mighty Crónán of Ferns.’

One ancient Féilire or Calendar of Saints’ Feast Days recorded that Mochua and Crónán were the same man, and that Mochua was a familiar name for Crónán.

Mr Rom Bates, Pilgrimage Development Officer with Ancient Connections and resident of Ferns, said the Ferns-St. David’s project filled a need and that the first pilgrims had already

walked it by way of Ferns, Oulart, Oilgate, Johnstown Castle and Our Lady’s Island; taking five days in Ireland and three in Wales to complete the Camino.

The unique highlight of the ceremony saw Ms. Rowan O’Neill, from Cardigan, using a limpet shell from her home area to add water from St David’s Well in Bridell, Wales, to Tobarmaclúra, thus symbolically twinning the two holy wells. It was a very moving and deeply symbolic moment, and one from which surely only good can flow.

Opening her remarks in Irish and Welsh to spontaneous applause, Rowan, whose idea it was to twin the wells, and whose grandfather had to emigrate from Co. Carlow in the 1940s never to return, addressed the seventy-strong attendance in a quiet, dignified and extremely affecting few words that touched the heart, saying ‘... some wells are visited in conjunction with another well and that the health and well-being of a well in one place might relate to that of another in another region or even in another country... water ebbs and flows, rises and falls, parts and unites...”

Fr. Paddy Browne, PP Oulart, welcomed the project recalling several connections with Wales in years past through the many priests serving there who were alumni of St. Peter’s College.

He wished the Camino every success and, invoking the blessing of Saint Mochua, St. Aidan and St. David, he gave out a decade of the Rosary, with music supplied by Orla Nimmo (Long Whistle), Yvonne Dempsey (guitar) and Kevin Nimmo (Banjo). MC for the lovely occasion was John Dempsey, Chairman, Oulart Hill Development Group.

With true Irish hospitality, the entire attendance was invited by the Dempsey family to a beautifully arranged tea with all sorts of confections to round off a quietly historic evening in Killagowan. n

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That’s true, you know! ‘“That’s True, You Know” is an exclusive exhibition running in Enniscorthy Castle until the beginning of August as part of their 2022 summer programme.

Running until beginning of August 2022

Curated by the respected folklorist Michael Fortune of www.folklore.ie, it’s a first of its kind in the country as a sole showcase focusing on folkloric customs and beliefs from across Ireland.

Wexford features strongly throughout the exhibition with objects, stories, photos and videos collected from every corner of the county and beyond. Michael stated, “I’m delighted to be invited

by Manager Mico Hassett and her team to curate ‘That’s True, You Know’ for Enniscorthy Castle as the old museum was the first museum I visited as a child. It’s a great opportunity to display and share both the traditions and superstitions of local and national voices and have their stories and objects profiled in such historic surroundings.”

Michael spent the past two decades collecting ancient and contemporary folk beliefs and customs in every corner of the country. Describing his work, broadcaster and writer Manchán Magan said: “There have only been a few people – guardians, sacred recorders – who have collected and documented this material and Michael is one of them. Michael Fortune in years to come is going to be Ireland’s Alan Lomax.”

Above L-R: Folklorist and Curator Michael Fortune with Mico Hassett, Enniscorthy Castle Manager, at Enniscorthy Castle where the ‘That’s True, You Know’ exhibition is running until beginning of August.

which contains interactive aspects from

aspect across the Castle space, giving

walking under ladders, to stepping on

patrons the additional opportunity to

cracks – a space sure to create some in-

hear the human voice and the source of

Mico Hassett commented, “The exhibition has a mixture of elements from a series of large and beautiful hanging displays focusing on areas around Holy Wells and Sacred Spaces, to the supernatural world of Fairies and the Banshee.

To complement that you will also be walked through the calendar year with display boards for every month highlighting traditional dates of importance.”

trigue and wonder. To top it all off, Mi-

the stories too. Michael added,

chael has also brought together a host of

“People’s voices and accents are vital to

objects which he has acquired and bor-

my area of work and without these real

rowed from people and communities

people's voices and experiences some-

from all over Ireland. These range from

thing would be missing so we will fea-

bottles of Holy Water from wells around

ture monitors playing certain stories

the county to decorated May Bush altars

aloud.” A series of QR codes are dis-

and family relics. We hope it’s a new look

played to scan which will bring you di-

at the past for our visitors to explore and

rectly to the source of the story on

enjoy.”

YouTube if patrons want to delve into

Newly appointed Deputy Manager Eve Furlong said, ‘We have also curated a room focused on superstitions and beliefs aimed at children and teenagers

Over the past twenty years Michael has

more folklore offsite.

amassed the country's largest collection

Admission to the exhibition is free on

of folklore recollections on film and he

payment of normal admission to the

has devised a way to include this digital

Castle. n

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SlaNey hiStory SlaNey ad & heritage POOR OF WEXFORD TOWN OF 1800s AND 1900s COMMEMORATED AT PAUPERS’ GRAVE

Poor of Wex commem

The music of the Holy Family Confraternity Band under their musical director, Alan Mahon, as they played Hymnus Antverpiae, could be heard all over Coolcotts, the leafy suburb of Wexford town. The deep melodious tones of the Wexford Male Voice, conducted by Fiona Quirke, wafted over the Paupers’ Grave there as robed dignitaries and colourfully uniformed services officers and town organisation leaders gathered around on the balmy, sunny mid-June evening.

Mary Beary and Anne Beary lit the candles at the Celtic Cross in the centre of the Paupers' Grave garden in memory of the forgotten souls buried there.

All assembled around the cross in a solemn ceremony to commemorate the poor of Wexford, almost all buried without headstone or obituary or eulogy or funeral or any ritual, in shallow graves there in the 1800s and early 1900s because there was no money to pay for their burial.

The people buried there, were, according to an inscription on the Celtic Cross, ‘the Poor, the Deprived, the Destitute, the Mentally and the Physically Challenged.’ An inscription on a nearby plaque says: ”They laughed, They cried. They lived. They died.

They will be remembered forever.”

However, there is no indication of how many are buried there. “No records kept.

Not in ones or tens, but probably in hundreds, possibly thousands,” said retired County Library historian and genealogist, Celestine Murphy.

The Paupers’ Grave is a green area of about 50 metres by 30 metres sheltered by trees in Coolcotts near the Community

Around the Celtic Cross in the Paupers’ Graveyard Centre in suburban Wexford town. A few big stones scattered there were left by loved ones to indicate some graves.

DIGNITARIES SALUTED AND LAID WREATHS Angela Laffan, district manager of Wexford County Council, welcomed Councillors, Bishop Nash, Catholic Bishop of Ferns; Fr Billy Swan, Adm; the Reverend Cormac O’Reilly, Church of Ireland, St Iberius church; town officials, Gardaí, Army, Commodore John Barry branch of National ExService Personnel and Veterans, the Order of Malta, the Lions Club, Rotary, Wexford Chamber, Wexford Historical Society and FAB (Ferndale, Ashfield, Belevedere Community and Family Resource Centre officials) and all who attended.

The Mayor of Wexford, Garry Laffan, was unable to attend because of the death of his auntie Kathleen of Monck Street.

The dignitaries stood to attention, saluted

or laid wreaths and bunches of flowers at the Celtic Cross.

Minister James Browne T.D. on behalf of the Irish Government and Cllr. Maura Bell on behalf of the Wexford Borough District and the People of Wexford, laid wreaths.

Pat Collins of Wexford Memorial Trust laid a wreath in memory of the young boy John Brien, and Mrs Sarah Higginbotham and her infant son Thomas and all the forgotten souls buried there.

Conal Creedon laid a wreath in memory of his father the late Bill Creedon, former Wexford County Secretary, trustee and friend of Wexford Memorial Trust. Sean Kinsella, on behalf of the Furlong family laid a wreath in memory of his cousin, the late Nicky Furlong, renowned Wexford author and historian, trustee and friend of Wexford Memorial Trust.

Wreaths were also laid by John Fowler, chairman of the Commodore John Barry Branch of the O.N.E. in memory of Organ-

Left Ma T

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xford town morated

Seated in the attendance at the commemoration, also known as the Annual Patron, was Padge Reck, former Mayor of Wexford, who with the late Ray Nolan was a founder of Wexford Memorial Trust and its chairman from 1990 to 2015. Because of the Covid pandemic, the Annual Patron had not been held since 2019.

There too were historians and authors and researchers Celestine Murphy, Greg Walsh, Paddy Kinsella, Dr Noel Culleton, Dan Redmond and Willie French. In the crowd were Peter McDonald and his wife Theresa of New Ross, and Sean Kinsella, Corry’s Villas, cousins of the late Nicky Furlong. Maura Gately whose late brother Monsignor Lory Kehoe was a loyal supporter of the Memorial Trust, was there.

isation of National Ex-Service personnel and veterans; by David O’Grady, assistant commander, Wexford Order of Malta; by Trina Barnes, president of Wexford Lions Club; by Calodagh McCumiskey, Wexford Rotary Club; by Sergeant Mick Dee, Wexford Gardaí; by Brendan Crowley, president, Wexford Chamber; and by Sharon Murphy, Ferndale, Ashfield, Belvedere, Community and Family Resource Centre (F.A.B.).

Tanya O’Neill and Karolina Mahoney laid flowers on behalf of Scoil Mhuire National School.

Helen Corish Wylde, chairperson of Wexford Memorial Trust, thanked all who attended.

Also remembered were former Mayor of Wexford, Noel Murphy, and former Mayor of Wexford, the late Peter Roche, both of whom were members of the Wexford Memorial Trust.

Celebrants Bishop Ger Nash, Monsignor Denis Lennon, Fr. Billy Swan Adm., and Rev. Conor O’Reilly, lead the congregation in prayer for the blessing of the graveyard.

DISCARDED AS HUMAN GARBAGE The attendance of more than 120 people listened raptly and applauded rapturously for a powerfully inspirational address by the guest speaker, Professor Kevin Whelan, a native of Clonegal, Co. Wexford, who has been director of the Notre Dame University for more than 25 years.

He asked in his 20-minute address to: “Think for a moment of our parents and our grandparents. While they may have died, they are still very much alive in our thoughts and especially at significant points in the year like Christmas and birthdays. In that sense, they are still valued and a significant force and presence in our lives even though they are no longer physically with us.

“Then let us think of the people beneath our feet here [in the Paupers’ Graveyard] and the ignominious way they were once

discarded as so much human garbage in a paupers’ grave. They died as a result of harsh social and economic policies that treated poverty as a self-inflicted condition, resulting from character flaws. These are the ones who were treated in both life and in death with contempt.”

The known three of those who died there were named. According to a Wexford Memorial Trust/ Wexford County Council brochure, supplied to all who attended, they were John O’Brien, who died aged 12 on 2nd December 1904 and Sarah Higginbotham, who died aged 40 on 14th May 1886, and her infant son Thomas who died shortly afterwards on 7th October 1886 aged nine months. Both had died in the Wexford Union Workhouse, known today as the ‘Old Wexford Hospital’.

Large stones marked some of the graves, placed there by family members so that they could distinguish their loved one’s resting place. A headstone close to the Celtic cross marks the grave of John O’Brien. A plaque on a boundary wall commemorates Sarah Higginbotham and her son.

The hour-long event was supremely well organised, choreographed, sequenced, scripted, timed and presented by the Wexford Memorial Trust Committee members of Brian Byrne, Pat Collins, Monica Crofton, Angie Laffan, Breda Meagher, Anita Ryan and Helen Corish-Wylde, their chairperson, who thanked those who attended.

After the commemorations, Bishop Nash, Fr Billy Swan and Professor Kevin Whelan, were among many others who went to the Coolcotts Community Centre for tea served with compliments of the organisers and Clonard Area Development Association (C.A.D.A.) – Michael Freeman

t: Celebrants lead prayers. Above: Fiona Quirke conducts the le Voice Choir. Right: Helen Corish, Chairperson of Memorial Trust, Prof Kevin Whelan, Guest Speaker, and Angela Laffan, District Manager, Wexford Co. Council.

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Tackling erosion at Morriscastle Strand

Locals from Kilmuckridge and surrounding areas on 30th April 2022.

Wexford County Council has taken steps to combat erosion at some coastal beaches, including Morriscastle Strand. The dune beside the entrance to the beach has been suffering from quite severe erosion, so the Council arranged for chestnut pail fencing to be erected in sections that could help keep people off while planting takes place.

Clean Coasts teamed up with Wexford County Council to do marram grass planting sessions within these fenced areas. The first day was with locals from Kilmuckridge and surrounding areas on 30th April, and the second day was with students from Coláiste an Átha, Kilmuckridge, on 19th May, which was the day before Morriscastle Strand received the 2022 Blue Flag Award. n

Students from Coláiste an Átha, Kilmuckridge, working hard on 19th May 2022.

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Planning exemption for solar panels HOUSES, REGARDLESS OF LOCATION, WILL SOON BE ABLE TO INSTALL SOLAR PANELS ON THEIR ROOFS WITHOUT ANY REQUIREMENT FOR PLANNING PERMISSION. The Minister of State for Planning and Local Government, Peter Burke TD, last month published proposed revisions to the existing planning exemptions for the installation of solar panels on the roofs of houses and certain non-domestic buildings. A public consultation as part of the Strategic Environmental Assessment process is now open and will run until 13 July. The proposed changes are aimed at increasing Ireland’s generation of solar energy and national action on climate change.

Commenting on the draft regulations, Minister Burke TD said: “These draft regulations will help facilitate the rollout of rooftop solar energy across Wexford. They will enable individuals, communities, businesses and farms in the county to play their part in creating a future fuelled by renewable energy and acting against climate change. They will help people and businesses in Wexford to reduce their energy bills and increase Ireland’s energy security, a major challenge given developments in Europe and the need to rapidly reduce dependence on Russian fossil fuels.”

Under the draft regulations the following is proposed: For solar panel installations on houses: it is proposed to increase the existing planning exemptions for installing solar panels on rooftops of homes, regardless of their geographical location. Solar installations will be able to cover the entire roof of a house, subject to minor setback distances from the edge of the roof.

For solar panel installations on rooftops of all other existing classes of development (Industrial; Light Industrial and Business Premises; Agricultural): rooftop solar installations covering the entire roof are proposed to be exempt from requiring planning permission. However, in 43 proposed solar safeguarding zones,

the existing exemption of 50 square metres or less is proposed to be increased to 60 square metres per building. These proposed solar safeguarding zones, which constitute less than 3% of the country’s land area, are necessary to address aviation safety concerns due to the potential impact of glint and glare arising from increased solar developments in proximity to sites such as airports and hospitals (which have helipads). Anyone seeking to avail of larger rooftop solar installations within solar safeguarding zones can apply for planning permission.

Apartments; educational/community/religious/health/recreational buildings and libraries: for the first time, it is proposed to exempt the installation of solar panels on the rooftops of such buildings from requiring planning permission, subject to conditions and the rooftop area limit in proposed solar safeguarding zones.

Exemptions for wall-mounted and free-standing solar panel installations: free-standing solar panel installations for houses are exempted from the requirement to obtain planning permission subject to a 25 square metre area limit and conditions requiring a certain amount of private open space to be maintained for the use of occupants. The exempted area for all other categories except apartments is proposed to be increased to 60 square metres.

In addition, wall mounted solar installations of 60 square metres will also be exempted for industrial and agricultural buildings.

Minister Burke added: “Houses, regardless of location, will soon be able to install solar panels on their roofs without any requirement for planning permission, which I know will be very welcome to many homeowners. Draft proposals for community/educational/religious buildings will also give institutions such as schools a greater opportunity to reduce their energy bills. By proposing these increased exemptions we are bringing exemptions into line with our renewables ambitions and helping people to play their part in climate action and to reduce their energy bills. n

These six ‘R’s can save our planet!

Refuse single use plastics (bags, cups, etc) Rethink your choices Reuse as much as possible Repair before you replace Recycle all packaging and plastic bottles Rot all your organic stuff and put it back into the soil n 5th July 2022 - Page 119

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Over 300kg of litter collected in Wexford for World Ocean Day The 8th of June 2022 marked the global celebration of World Ocean Day, an initiative that highlights the important role the ocean has for our life and the planet. Various clean-ups took place with Wexford volunteers answering Clean Coasts’ call to action to protect our ocean.

Tomhaggard Clean-up Group, Wexford.

Irish environmental charity Clean Coasts joined forces with National Spring Clean to provide volunteers and communities in Wexford with free clean-up kits to host a clean-up in honour of World Ocean Day. Statistics have shown that the number one cause of marine litter is litter dropped in towns and cities and getting involved in World Ocean Day was a great way for residents of non-coastal counties to help prevent litter entering our waterways by tackling the problem at the source.

Over 50 volunteers collected around 300kg of litter at the various clean-up events held both on land and by the Wexford coast to prevent litter pollution at the source to ensure it does not end up in the ocean.

A key event that took place during the first week was Tomhaggard Tidy Towns’ clean-up event of their area where they collected three big hauls of litter with

Tomhaggard Clean-up Group, Wexford.

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new members of their group.

The oceans support all life on the planet, by producing most of the oxygen we breathe and regulating climate. No matter where we live, we all depend on the ocean to survive.

Sinead McCoy, Coastal Communities Manager said: “World Ocean Day is a great opportunity for individuals, groups and communities to take action for Ocean Health and lend their voice of support to actions that call for more pro-

tection of our Ocean. Clean Coasts were incredibly excited to have over 200 activities happening across Ireland in June to mark and support World Ocean Day. The amazing efforts shown on and around World Ocean Day, as well as the work of Clean Coasts volunteers all year round, are incredibly inspiring and provide a great deal of hope for the future of the world’s oceans.”

Check out www.cleancoasts.org to stay up to date on what’s happening. n

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Positive feedback from recent survey In January 2022, Refill Ireland conducted a survey with We The People agency and almost 1,100 people responded. Some really strong data came through.  60% of those surveyed think plastic water bottles should be banned.  87% of those surveyed think plastic waste is a 'very big' issue.

Gorey scores well on the litter front In an An Taisce – IBAL Anti-Litter League Survey published on 12th June 2022, Gorey ranked 12th out of 40 towns/cities surveyed nationwide and was deeemd cleaner than European norms.

According to the report, there was a definite improvement in the overall presentation and maintenance of the town. The result of this was a far higher ranking than previous surveys. The installation of barriers at the rear of Gorey Sports and Leisure Centre – a litter blackspot for many years – had made a difference. Several initiatives were noted e.g. Gorey 400, Gorey Pride of Place, ‘Have you Say on Gorey Town’, Text Hello Gorey.

Top ranking sites included the newly redeveloped ‘Gorey Town / Gorey District Park’ (‘looking fantastic after all the work that has taken place’), Tesco Extra and both the Main Street and Esmonde Street. The recycle facility at Tesco was the only litter blackspot.

Read the full report here: http://ibal.ie/ib/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Gorey-1-2022-Final.pdf n

 85% own a reusable water bottle but only 47% of those take it with them everyday.  Almost 40% of those surveyed said No places in their locality offer free water refills, and a further 47% don't know if there's any free water facilities in their area.  While 84% of respondents haven't heard of the Tap Map, 86% said they would download the app.  When asked where they would most like to have a water station in their community, the top answers were on the street (21%) , Shopping Centre (16%) and Park (14%).  Only 1% think the Irish government is doing 'very well' at tackling plastic waste.  86% believe refilling water bottles instead of buying bottled is an impactful action. n

Sustainable Enniscorthy’s funding for energy plan The proactive Sustainable Enniscorthy group has secured funding approval from SEAI for an Energy Master Plan for Enniscorthy. We’ll carry full details in our next issue. n

The Beachcombers Guide to the Treasures of Our Beaches in Wexford Saturday, July 23rd, 11am, in Enniscorthy Library.

Go along to meet Jonathan Derham in Enniscorthy Library to learn what treasures you might discover and how to find them at the Wexford beaches you visit this summer!

Dr Jonathan Derham works with the EPA who are responsible for protecting and improving our environment.

This event is suitable for all the family.

Booking essential. Phone: 053 9236055 enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie n

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Major waterworks on Old Dublin Road to last until mid October Irish Water, working in partnership with Wexford County Council, is carrying out mains rehabilitation works on the Old Dublin Road in Enniscorthy, with road closures and traffic management in place. The works are expected to be completed by mid October 2022.

Speaking about the works, Irish Water's Joe Carroll (pictured) said: “The works involve the replacement of over 2km of problematic water mains with new modern pipes... and are being carried out as part of Irish Water’s National Leakage Reduction Programme.” The section of works is taking place along the Old Dublin Road (L2008) between the Clavass Roundabout and the Fran Cullen premises.

Irish Water’s customer care helpline is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact them on Twitter @IWCare with any queries. For updates please visit the Water Supply Updates section of the Irish Water website or set your location on the website www.water.ie Since 2018, Irish Water has invested over €500 million to upgrade the underground water network across the country through the delivery of the Leakage Reduction Programme, and are investing a further €600 million up to the end of 2024 in fixing leaks and replacing pipes to provide a more reliable water supply.

Iish Water has plans to upgrade the Vinegar Hill Water Treatment plant to bring a safer and more reliable supply to homes and businesses in Enniscorthy. Similarly, an upgrade is planned for the Newtown Water Treatment Plant in Wexford town. n

Conserving water this summer Irish Water is asking the public in Wexford to be mindful of their water usage due to increased domestic and commercial demand during the busy summer period.

There are lots of helpful tips for conserving water on www.water.ie. These include leaving the hose and the pressure washer in the shed; not using paddling pools; reusing household water for the garden; and taking shorter showers.

Conservation Calculator: Last month, Irish Water launched the online Conservation Calculator. Research commissioned by Irish Water showed that over half of Irish households (53%) admitted to wasting water, even though some eight in ten (78%) know it is important to take steps to conserve it. The Conservation Calculator, which will assist households across the country to assess their water usage habits and find out how much water they are saving on a daily basis. It also offers useful and practical tips on how to reduce water usage and track their progress.

The free tool was developed in response to research which shows consumers want additional tools to assist them conserve water and is available at www.water.ie/calculator n

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Creagh Water Supply Incident Report Published On 21 June 2022, the detailed report on the Creagh Water Quality incident at Creagh Water Treatment Plant, Gorey, was published and presented to the monthly meeting of the Members of the Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District.

The Report is the outcome of a comprehensive examination conducted over several months by Mr. P.J. Rudden of Aengus Consulting Ltd who was commissioned by Wexford County Council to examine all the circumstances that led to the water quality incident in Gorey in August 2021.

The report sets out in great detail the facts and causes of the incident, examining everything from the site alarm systems, the frequency of plant servicing, standard operating procedures, staffing on site, communication problems, to the Service Level Agreement between Wexford County Council and Irish Water. Irish Water is the national water utility company which is responsible for the operation of all public water and wastewater services including Creagh Water Treatment Plant, which is operated under a Service Level Agreement by Wexford County Council.

from the water incident was 46, all of whom attended their GPs, and one person was eventually hospitalised.

Further issues highlighted by the report were the requirement for ongoing training by plant operators to take account of changes in treatment processes and the limited compliance with Irish Water Standard Operational Procedures.

The report goes on to outline 13 separate recommendations to ensure that there is no recurrence of the Creagh incident. The recommendations include the provision of an alarm system for power failure, a standby generator to guard against any future power failure, a return to quarterly specialist maintenance of mechanical equipment, changes to the remote monitoring system (SCADA), a review of staffing and duties at the plant, implementation of automatic plant shutdown in response to water quality issues, an upgrade of the chlorine dosing system,

replacement and servicing of the sand and filtration system, the full implementation of Irish Water Standard Operation Procedures, an audit of all treatment plants in the county and a review of incident management. All these recommendations have been taken on board and are being addressed by Wexford County Council and Irish Water and many have already been put in place.

Since the incident last year €200,000 has been invested by Irish Water in upgrading the plant at Creagh with another €2 million committed to fund further agreed planned upgrades already underway. Staffing changes and a reorganisation of duties have also been carried out in line with the recommendations of the report Wexford County Council says it is fully satisfied that the works already carried out and the further upgrades committed to by Irish Water will ensure that there will be no repetition of this Water Quality failure at the Creagh Plant, and it again wishes to most sincerely apologise to all those people affected by this incident. n

The comprehensive report carried out by Aengus Consulting Ltd highlighted deficiencies in a number of areas including equipment and operation of the Water Treatment Plant and human error. The report has formed the basis of a comprehensive way forward by Wexford County Council and Irish Water to carry out the required improvements at the plant which will guarantee that such a serious incident will not transpire again.

The water quality incident arose from a power failure at the plant during the late evening of Thursday 19th August last. The chlorine dosing pumps failed as a result of the power outage. The impact of the power failure was compounded by human error and a lack of supervisory oversight that allowed water, without the appropriate level of disinfection to enter the public water supply at Gorey for a period of 4 days from 19th to the 23rd of August 2021. The HSE subsequently reported that the number of people who fell ill

Report on Events leading to the Water Quality Incident at Creagh Water Treatment Plant, Gorey, County Wexford 15th June 2022

Report commissioned by Wexford County Council

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THE M.J. MALONE MARSHALSTOWN-CASTLEDOCKRELL VINTAGE CLUB TRACTOR, CAR AND BIKE RUN, SUNDAY 22ND MAY 2022.

Above: Janet Leadbetter, Felicity Cohan watch the tractor run get under way.

Below: One of the vehicles taking part in Castledockrell.

Right: A Land Rover passes by.

Left: Abigail and Pauline Cullen.

Below: Fr Danny McDonald.

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Marshalstown Castledockrell Vintage Club Trac Car and Bike Ru

nl ctor, un

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Above: Patrick and Eilish Begley.

Below: Oscar White and Igor Opolski.

Above left: Jamie and Josh Rellis.

Above: Poppy and Colman Doyle.

Left: Cody and Owen Levingstone.

Below left: Realtin and Shea Power.

Below: Gwen, James and TJ Tyrrell.

Below right: Nadia and Natalie Jordan.

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